The Valley Sentinel_January 2018 by Sentinel Newspapers

Alamo • Danville • Blackhawk • Diablo • San Ramon

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January 2018

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SPOTLIGHT

L to R: Beth Burlingame-Randall accepts the Rotarian of the Year plaque and gift from Rotary Club of Alamo President Joan Grimes.

Beth BurlingameRandall named Alamo Rotarian of the Year Beth Burlingame-Randall has been named the Alamo Rotarian of the Year by the Rotary Club of Alamo. The award was presented to

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Save Mount Diablo recentley purchased a 95-acre Anderson Ranch in Morgan Territory. View toward Mt. Diablo. Photo credit: Scott Hein. For the full story please see page 7.

The Truth about Mountain Lions by James Hale

M o u n t a i n l i o n a n c e s t o rs originated in North America around 10 million years ago from the ancestral stock of Saber-toothed Cats (Smilodon fatalis) and Scimitar Cat (Homotherium serum) which originated around 25 million years ago. The Saber-toothed cats lived between 2.5 million years ago to 10,000 years ago.The mountain lion lineage branched off around 1 million years ago. The two species of saber tooth cats, as well as the North American Cheetah (Miracinonyx trumani)and the North American Lion (Panthera atrox) were extirpated in North America around 10,000 years ago, starting with the Younger Dryas Cold Spell or Big Freeze (12,800 11,500 Before Present) during the end of the Pleistocene Epoch (2,588,000 - 11,700 million years ago). Climate change at the end of the Pleistocene and perhaps overexploitation by the

PaleoIndians led to the extinction of the Megafauna. Mountain lion populations flourished thereafter. Mountain lions (Puma concolor) are presently the only large, obligate carnivore thriving in self-sustaining populations across western North America. The species has existed here along with its major prey - Mule Deer ( Odocoileus hemionus), White-tailed Deer (Odocoileus virginianus), Elk (Cervus elaphus), Moose (Alces alces), and Bighorn Sheep (Ovis canadensis) - for at least 13,000 years. Ecologically, mountain lions strongly influence energy flow in ecosystems, are a potent selective force on prey animals, modulate prey population dynamics, indirectly affect herbivory in plant communities, influence

competitive interactions b e t we e n h e r b i vo re s, a n d compete with other carnivores for prey. Moreover, because self-sustaining mountain lion populations require expansive, interconnected wild land, conservation strategies designed to benefit mountain lions also benefit an array of other wildlife.

Unregulated mountain lion hunting and habitat alterations that affected prey numbers, caused the near extinction of the mountain lion in eastern North America. By 1900, mountain lions had largely been extirpated east of the Rocky Mountains, See LION page 9

New Year, New You!

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

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The Valley SenTinel $15. Village Theater, 233 Front St., Danville. Information: www.villagetheatreshows.com or 925-314-3400.

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. In conjunction with the exhibition, a free screening is scheduled of the film Born in China, a Disney nature film about an epic voyage into the remote parts of China to follow the stories of three wild animal families. The film will be shown on Saturday, January 20, 2018 in the Village Theatre at 1:30 p.m. The Village Theatre and Art Gallery, 233 Front Street, Danville. For more information, contact Visual Arts Coordinator Marija Nelson Bleier at 925314-3460 or mbleier@danville. ca.gov Disney’s High School Musical Jr - St. Francis Now - January 14 Christ the King January 12 - 14 It’s the first day after winter break at East High. The Jocks, Brainiacs, Thespians and Skater Dudes all find their cliques. Basketball team captain and resident jock, Troy, discovers that the brainy Gabriella, a girl he met singing karaoke on his ski trip, has just enrolled at East High. The couple causes an upheaval when they decide to audition for the high school musical. Although many students resent the threat posed to the “status quo,” Troy and Gabriella’s alliance might just open the door for others to shine as well.

Bay Area Children’s Theatre Education Program presents: Madagascar Jr. January 12-14 Based on the DreamWorks animated motion picture, Madagascar follows your animal friends as they escape from their home in New York’s Central Park Zoo and wind up in Madagascar! Performed by the 5th – 10th grade students in Bay Area Children’s Theatre Next Stage Performers. $10. Dougherty Valley Performing Arts Center, 10550 Albion Rd. (Cross Street Bollinger Canyon Rd.) Located on the Dougherty Valley High School Campus. San Ramon. Information: www.sanramon.ca.gov/parks/ theater or 925-973-3343.

39th Annual Shellie Awards January 13 7:30pm. The Shellies honor over 120 individuals and their work in musical and nonmusical theatrical productions that took place between September 1 and August 31. Currently the regional companies participating are: Brentwood Theater Company, Center REPertory Company, Clayton Theatre Company, Contra Costa Musical Theatre, Onstage Theatre, Pittsburg Community Theatre, Town Hall Theatre Company and the Vagabond Players. Accompanied by a live band, selections are performed from

Walnut Creek on Ice

January 2018 each nominated musical and non-musical. $30. The Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. Tickets and information: www. lesherartscenter.org or 925943-7469. Guys and Dolls Jr. January 16 - 17 Guys and Dolls Jr. follows gambler Nathan Detroit as he tries to find the cash to set up the biggest craps game in town while the authorities breathe down his neck. Nathan turns to fellow gambler Sky Masterson to front the money for the game, but Sky has other ideas. Guys and Dolls is considered by many to be the perfect musical comedy and is a true musical theatre classic. $15. Village Theater, 233 Front St., Danville. Information: www.villagetheatreshows.com or 925-314-3400.

Synergy Theater presents Spontaneous Sitcom January 18-20 at 8:15 pm and January 21 at 3:15 pm. Get ready to binge watch your “favorite” old sitcom with Synergy Theater. Audience members suggest their all-time favorite episodes and Synergy Theater creates them on the spot. It’s back-to-back episodes of the funniest old sitcoms you’ve never seen. Remember the pilot? Remember the cliffhanger? Remember that “very special episode”? Of course not. We’re making it up! $20. The Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. Tickets and information: www.lesherartscenter.org or 925-943-7469.

Open daily now through January 15 at Civic Park 1375 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek

Presented by the Walnut Creek Chamber of Commerce & Walnut Creek Downtown Business Association WalnutCreekOnIce.com

Born in China January 20 1:30 pm. In conjunction with the exhibit Wild! a free screening is scheduled of the film Born in China, a Disney nature film about an epic voyage into the remote parts of China to follow the stories of three wild animal families. The Village Theatre and Art Gallery,

valleysentinel.com 233 Front Street, Danville. For more information, contact Visual Arts Coordinator Marija Nelson Bleier at 925-314-3460 or mbleier@danville.ca.gov The Museum of the San Ramon Valley presents A Great Frontier Odyssey: Sketching the American West Exhibition an Artists’ Depictions of an Early CrossCountry Journey January 20 - March 18 A new traveling exhibition documenting the 1873 overland j o u r n ey o f a r t i s t s J u l e s Tavernier and Paul Frenzeny. The opening of the West after the Civil War drew a flood of Americans and immigrants to the frontier. The public clamored for images of the newly accessible American We s t , p ro m p t i n g H a r p e r Brothers’ publishing firm in New York to send Tavernier and Frenzeny on a trip West to provide readers with images of the frontier. The prints in A Great Frontier Odyssey trace the artists’ journey to San Francisco. Museum of the San Ramon Valley, 205 Railroad Ave., Danville. Information: museumsrv.org or call 925837-3750.

Foolish Mortals! Presented by MooNiE and BrooN January 20 7:30pm. A no holds barred improvised adventure of comedy through landscape of whips, knives, nails and clubs –juggling nonsense with the dexterity of two! $25. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. Tickets and information: www. lesherartscenter.org or 925943-7469.

Beethoven’s 6th Symphony, The Pastoral January 20 at 8pm, January 21 at 4pm. The California Symphony performs Beethoven’s Sixth Symphony, and rising star Violinist and Bay Area native Alexi Kenney makes his

California Symphony debut. Instantly familiar, Beethoven’s Sixth Symphony – aka the Pastoral – was inspired by Beethoven’s walks in the countryside around Vienna. Tickets: $42, or $20 for students. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: www.californiasymphony.org or 925-943-7469.

S i n g i n ’ i n t h e Ra i n J R Presented by Poison Apple Productions featuring Youth Performers January 25-27 T h e “ G re a t e s t M ov i e Musical of All Time” is faithfully and lovingly adapted by Broadway legends Betty Comden and Adolph Green, from their original awardwinning screenplay in Singin’ in the Rain JR. Hilarious situations, snappy dialogue and a hit-parade score of Hollywood standards make Singin’ in the Rain JR. a guaranteed good time for performers and audience members alike. Singin’ in the Rain JR. has all the makings of a Tinseltown tabloid headline – the starlet, the leading man and a love affair that could change lives and make or break careers! In silent movies, Don Lockwood and Lina Lamont are a hot item, but behind the scenes, things aren’t always as they appear on the big screen! Meanwhile, Lina’s squeaky voice might be the end of her career in “talking pictures” without the help of a talented young actress to do the talking and singing for her. $20. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. Tickets and information: www. lesherartscenter.org or 925943-7469.

Center Rep Presents: Red Speedo January 26 - 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

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

valleysentinel.com 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. Center REPertory Company is proud to offer its “First Look” program thanking US Military personnel and US Veterans and active College students with $15 tickets to any preview performance of a Center REP show. All two year and four year College students, faculty, and staff with a school ID or any active military or veterans with appropriate ID can purchase a pair of $15 tickets to any Center REP preview performance. Present ID at the Ticket office window to receive discount. Preview performances are the first listed performances leading up to Opening night. The offer is subject to availability and is limited to two tickets.

Stars to the Rescue XXVII Presented by Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation January 27 7pm. Join host Tony La Russa and ARF at Stars to the Rescue! This year’s starstudded musical gala features 2016 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee Chicago, Grammynominated country music phenomenon Cam, Broadway star Franc D’Ambrosio, and more! Proceeds from Stars to the Rescue allow ARF to save dogs and cats who have run out of time at public shelters and bring life-enriching programs to animals and people. $50 - $250. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. Tickets and information: www.lesherartscenter.org or 925-943-7469. H o m e G r o w n Ta l e n t 2, featuring Matthew Carnahan January 28 2:45 and 7:15pm. Matthew is the creator as well as the

January 2018 executive producer, writer and director of the Showtime hit and Emmy nominated House of Lies. Matthew is a Walnut Creek native and Las Lomas graduate. He will be doing a presentation of his body of work including “House of Lies”. $20. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. Tickets and information: www.lesherartscenter.org or 925-943-7469. Preschool Performance Series - Escape Artist Bob Kann February 2 10am. Making little ones l a u g h , d a n c e, a n d s i n g along since 2009, the Town of Danville is pleased to continue to present fun and unique top-level entertainers for preschool-aged children. Whether you have a teeny one, or you yourself are just a kid at heart, you are sure to enjoy the variety of magicians, j u g g l e rs, a n d m u s i c i a n s who fill the Village Theatre with joy each month. $5. Village Theater, 233 Front St., Danville. Information: www. villagetheatreshows.com or 925-314-3400. Ro l e P l aye rs E n s e m b l e presents: Animal Farm by George Orwell February 2 – 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

by Val Caniparoli, set to the music of Richard Rodgers. Also featured, the exciting world premiere by former Netherlands Dans Theatre ballerina Danielle Rowe; the award winning film Libera, by Walter Yamazaki, brought back by popular demand after premiering last year at the Ballet’s 23rd Anniversary Performance; and the exotic Milieu by Robert Dekkers, set to a live performance of a commissioned score by Daniel Berkman. $40. Del Valle Theater, 1963 Tice Valley Blvd, 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.

Pink Floyd Concert Experience Presented by West Coast Performing Arts starring House of Floyd February 2 8pm. The Bay Area’s House of Floyd performs the music of Pink Floyd, and has gained a strong following for their unique ability to enthuse both the hard-core fans of the early adventurous Floyd and those who enjoy the songs and soundscapes that later brought them widespread appeal. They capture the essence of each of the various Pink Floyd eras from the formative Syd Barrett days, through the 70’s and the final post-Waters era. In the Pink Floyd tradition, a House of Floyd concert incorporates sound effects, moving lights, lasers and video projection - including many of the original, legendary backing films used by Pink Floyd. $45. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. Tickets and information: www.lesherartscenter.org or 925-943-7469.

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Jonathan Poretz returns with his full, 12-piece, Swingin’ Night Orchestra big band! $45. Lesher Center for the A r t s , 1 6 01 C i v i c D r i v e, Wa l n u t C r e e k . T i c k e t s a n d i n f o r m a t i o n : w w w. lesherartscenter.org or 925943-7469.

The Jazz Room: Motoshi Kosako in the Art Gallery February 8 7:30pm. The Jazz Room presents a special evening of music in the intimate art gallery at Village Theatre. Jazz Harpist Motoshi Kosako will perform various styles of original composition from Modern Jazz, Blues, Samba, Bossa Nova and classical styles. His compositions include unique techniques invented by him that make the harp sound like a guitar. He also uses virtuosic authentic harp techniques, and creates large spaces for improvisation. $15 - $30. Village Theater, 233 Front St., Danville. Information: www. villagetheatreshows.com or 925-314-3400.

LET US SAVE YOU!

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.

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Harmonious Beauty Presented by Diablo Ballet February 2 at 8pm, February 3 at 2pm and 8pm. Diablo Ballet celebrates the New Year with Harmonious Beauty, at the Del Valle Theatre in Walnut Creek. The second program of the season features the romantic Ballroom Pas de Deux from A Cinderella Story

Sinatra Sings the Big Bands Presented by West Coast Pe r f o r m i n g A r t s w i t h J o n a t h a n Po re t z & H i s Swingin’ Night Orchestra February 3 7:30pm. Back by popular demand, local Sinatra favorite

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The Valley Sentinel

January 2018

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Sponsored Content

Are Bulging Discs Getting On Your Nerves? By Dr. Niele Maimone, DC

If you are suffering from a pinched nerve or herniated disc, you know how debilitating it is and how the pain slowly leaks the vitality from your life. Since 1999 when Align Healing Center opened its doors, we have been specialists in treating pain naturally; whether it’s back pain, neck pain, shoulder pain or any other pain, we have been

there to awaken the healing potential in the body and relieve the pain. That being said, we are always in search of miraculous new ways to relieve pain without the use of drugs, invasive procedures and certainly without inducing more pain! If you or someone you care about suffers from a pinched nerve or disc related pain, it is worthwhile to explore the exceptional, noninvasive, natural therapies that are available today. Can I heal my pain without drugs or surgery?

Yes, here’s how! 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 f o r t h i s p ro c e d u re h ave already tried chiropractic, physical therapy, injections,

Alamo’s Sharon Burke Leaves LAFCO

Applications Now Being Accepted for the Public Member Seat The Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO) honored and thanked long time member Sharon Burke at their December meeting. Sharon stepped down from serving on LAFCO to spend time traveling with her husband. Sharon’s interest in LAFCO started with the proposed incorporation of Alamo. She was one of the chief proponents,

and became a regular attendee at LAFCO meetings. Her financial aptitude benefitted the incorporation process, as well as Contra Costa LAFCO. Sharon was appointed to LAFCO in 2009 as the Alternate Public Member to fill a vacancy. Sharon was reappointed to LAFCO in 2012 and again in 2016. She was a member of the LAFCO Policies & Procedures Committee.

Sharon’s departure from LAFCO has left a vacancy for the Public Member seat. Applications to fill this position are being accepted through January 31. More information about LAFCO can be found at www.contracostalafco. org. To apply for the vacant seat, visit www.cccounty. us/DocumentCenter/ View/48578.

Annual Homeless Point in Time Count Volunteers needed! The Continuum of Care Planning, Health, Housing and Homeless Services Division is seeking volunteers to help with the annual Homeless Point in Time Count in late January. Volunteers will be trained on how to administer a short survey and then will be stationed at specific community sites with other volunteers to conduct the surveys. This survey ROTARY from page 1

Beth by the Rotary Club of Alamo President Joan Grimes, at the Club’s annual Holiday Party, for her outstanding contributions to the Club, the Alamo community and especially to our youth over the past 12 years. This is the second time that Beth has received this stellar award. Beth joined The Rotary Club of Alamo with her husband, Bill Randall, in 2005 after they both retired from teaching at Stone Valley Middle School. While she is retired, Beth has never lost her zeal for working with students. As the Rotarian Sponsor of the Rotary Interact High School Club at Monte Vista, she encourages the kids in monthly service projects that reflect the Rotary motto of Service Above Self. Under Beth’s leadership, the Monte Vista Interact Club has won

provides valuable information on the scope of homelessness, particularly around the number of unsheltered people on the streets and the progress being made to end homelessness. It is also used by local agencies to help plan services and p ro g ra m s a p p ro p r i a t e l y, address strengths and gaps, increase public awareness, and attract resources to help end homelessness.

the Best Rotary District 5160 Interact Club numerous times. Beth also served as President of the Alamo Rotary Club in 2016-17 and has always been instrumental in most of the Club’s projects and activities ranging from organizing social functions, student recognitions and scholarships, serving continually on the Alamo Rotary Boards, and organizing service projects that involve Rotarians and Interactors’ working together. “Beth is a tireless and enthusiastic supporter of all things Rotary including the current District Grant Project benefiting the Bay Area Crisis Nursery. Our Alamo Rotary Club is very appreciative and truly grateful for all of Beth’s work on behalf of Rotary, the Alamo Community, and especially for our young people,” said Joan Grimes, Club President. “ We a p p r e c i a t e h e r s o

Volunteers are needed to help conduct surveys on Wednesday, January 24th and Thursday, January 25th. Volunteers who want to participate will need to attend a training the week of January 15th before being able to administer the survey, even if they’ve volunteered with the Point In Time count before. To get more information and to volunteer, please visit bit. ly/CoCoPIT2017. much so that we named her Alamo Rotarian of the Year . . . twice! Congratulations to you Beth! Once again, a very well-deserved and fitting recognition for a very special and very dedicated Rotarian,” she added. Beth received her AB and Masters degrees in History and a California Secondary Teaching Credential from UCLA. She started her career teaching high school in the Los Angeles area for several years, then moved to the Bay Area where she taught for 35 years in the San Ramon Unified School District, first at Monte Vista High School and then Stone Valley Middle School, where she taught Core, Drama and Journalism. The Rotary Club of Alamo has 50 members who meet on Wednesdays at 12:15 p.m. at Forli’s Ristorante, 3160 Danville Blvd., Alamo.. For information call 925-718-6601.

and/or were told they would need surgery. This breakthrough treatment works by gently separating the vertebra which decompresses the disc, thus causing the bulging material to be drawn back into the disc. It does this by reversing the internal disc pressure, thus creating a vacuum effect. According to the Journal of Neurosurgery (vol. 81, 1994), decompression was found to substantially reduce the pressure inside disc, therefore allowing water and nutrients to be absorbed and initiate the healing process within the disc itself. Non-surgical spinal decompression is very effective, has a high success rate, and can be utilized for both neck and low-back disc injuries. 2. Class IV Laser Therapy Laser treatments at Align Healing Center are done with the K-laser Cube Class IV Laser. 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. This laser does not cut or burn but is gently absorbed by the tissue. During each painless treatment, laser energy increases circulation, drawing water, oxygen and nutrients to the damaged area. This creates an optimal healing

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environment that reduces inflammation, swelling, muscle spasms, stiffness and pain. As the injured area returns to normal, function is restored and pain is relieved. There is hope! We have found that a combination of Class IV laser therapy and spinal decompression offers outstanding results in healing stubborn pain due to a pinched nerve, bulging disc or spinal degeneration. As a general rule, most patients experience significant changes in symptoms within one to three sessions. Occasionally, a more advanced degenerative condition or multiple level herniated discs may take 8-10 sessions before realizing a major decline in symptoms. Relief response varies according to age, body morphology and the degree of severity. 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 back or neck pain. This eliminates the long-term care commitment forced upon patients by other symptomatic 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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The Valley SenTinel

January 2018

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Park District Names Veteran Bay Area Law Enforcement Leader Anthony Ciaburro as New Assistant General Manager for Public Safety Police Chief Anthony (Tony) Ciaburro has been promoted to Assistant General Manager of Public Safety for the East Bay Regional Park District. The promotion was announced at the East Bay Regional Park District’s Nov. 21 Board of Directors meeting. Chief Ciaburro has been acting Assistant General Manager for Public Safety since June 6. The Assistant General Manager for Public Safety oversees police, fire and lifeguarding services for the District. Chief Ciaburro follows Chief Tim Anderson who retired Nov. 25th after 30 years with the Park District, Chief Ciaburro brings 28 years of law enforcement experience at all levels to the position of Assistant General Manager for Public Safety, including community relations and criminal investigations. Chief Ciaburro spent 26 years with the San Jose Police Department. Before becoming acting Chief Ciaburro Assistant General Manager for Public Safety, Chief Ciaburro served as Captain of Patrol Operations.

“ We a r e h a p p y t o announce Chief Tony Ciaburro as our new Assistant General Manager for Public Safety,” said East Bay Regional Park District General Manager Robert Doyle. “Chief Ciaburro is a veteran leader in Bay Area law enforcement with a wealth of knowledge and experience.” “He has quickly become an invaluable member of the Park District’s Leadership,” added Doyle. Chief Ciaburro joined the Park District in 2015 as a Captain of Patrol Operations, overseeing policing of all of the Park District’s 73 parks and 121,000 acres of open space. In his position, Ciaburro also oversaw the Investigations Unit, the Volunteer Safety Patrol Unit, and served as the liaison to the Park District’s unit managers working enforcement and events. Chief Ciaburro began his career in law enforcement in 1989 as an officer with the San Jose Police Department.

His assignments as a sergeant and officer included n a rc o t i c s, ro b b e r y, a n d internal affairs. He served as the Department’s Hate Crimes Coordinator was assigned MERGE Unit (SWAT). As a lieutenant, he ran Santa Clara County’s Regional Auto Theft Task Force and oversaw investigations as an acting captain. Upon promotion to captain, Ciaburro commanded the Central Division of the San Jose Police Department, overseeing 125 police officers. He emphasized community policing, foot patrols and community outreach, earning widespread respect among business leaders, residents and his staff. Chief Ciaburro earned the Department’s Outstanding Police Duty Awa rd i n 20 0 4 a n d t h e R i c h a rd H u e r t a S p e c i a l s Merit Award in 2015. Chief Ciaburro earned b a c h e l o r ’s a n d m a s t e r ’s degrees in criminal justice from San Jose State University. He is a graduate

New Book Recounts Redwood History By Beverly Lane, President, East Bay Regional Park District Board of Directors

The East Bay, including lands that have become regional parks, has a longer and more colorful history than might be imagined. Some of that is captured in a new book, “East Bay Hills: A Brief History.” T h e a u t h o r, A m e l i a Marshall, is a writer and a board member of the Metropolitan Horsemen’s Association and Oakland Heritage Alliance. She also belongs to the East Bay Regional Park District’s Volunteer Trail Safety Patrol.

Amelia’s focus is on the forests of coastal redwood trees that encompassed lands from Moraga to Castro Valley. The forests were first a resource for Native Americans, then became part of Spanish land grants, later supplied wood for expanding communities including Oakland and Hayward as well as many houses in Contra Costa County. Getting the milled wood to these communities in the mid-1800s was no easy task; at one point Bollinger Canyon Road was one link for redwood building materials in Danville and San Ramon. Ultimately the current generation of redwoods was preserved in part as watershed lands and public parks.

A parade of colorful characters inhabits these pages: the Peralta brothers, unscrupulous Oakland civic leader Horace Carpentier who defrauded them, and the rowdy loggers and cowboys who inhabited what is now Redwood Regional Park. Amelia recounts the history of Canyon, an independentminded community that exists to this day. The Regional Park District and water companies that became EBMUD play a role. Amelia also evokes the days when railroads transported woodland residents to destinations from Sacramento to San Francisco Bay. Vintage photographs illustrate the text.

Chief Anthony (Tony) Ciaburro with General Manager Robert Doyle at Swearing In Event Nov. 21, 2017

of the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia (class 245), and is a graduate of the Senior Management Institute for Police (June 2014) and is a resident of the Bay Area. He is also fluent in Spanish. Chief Ciaburro holds the dual title of East Bay Regional Park District Assistant General Manager for Public Safety, and East Bay Regional Park District Police Chief.

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.

Published by The History Press of Charleston, S.C., “East Bay Hills” is a great read. Look for it at your local bookstore or visit www.arcadiapublishing. com. * * * If you’d like to explore Re d wo o d Re g i o n a l Pa r k yo u rs e l f , t h e re a re t wo naturalist-led walks scheduled there in January. The first is a mushroom hunt from 2 to 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 20, led by naturalist Trent Pearce. The group will search for mushrooms, but won’t harvest any. Picking mushrooms is against regional park regulations, and it can be dangerous, because some varieties are poisonous. The second program is a walk from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 23,

led by naturalist “Trail Gail” Broesder to view Redwood Park’s overwintering colony of ladybird beetles, which cluster by the thousands at the junction of the Stream and Prince Trails. Gail’s walk is one of a series with the “Over-the-Hills Gang,” an informal group of hikers ages 55 and older interested in nature study, fitness and fun. Both hikes start at the park’s Canyon Meadows Staging Area. To reach Canyon Meadows, go to the park’s Redwood Road entrance, which is about two miles east of the intersection of Redwood Road and Skyline Boulevard in Oakland. Drive into the park, all the way to the end of the road. For more information and directions, call 510-5442233.

Photo by Gary Crabbe

valleysentinel.com

January 2018

Save Mount Diablo acquires Anderson Ranch For 40 years an approved 40-unit subdivision has quietly threatened the last 95 acres of the historic Anderson Ranch, or Pacini property. It’s the north end of Morgan Territory Ridge, near the intersection of Marsh Creek and Morgan Territory Roads, east of Clayton in a location with unusual geology—small volcanic domes. Save Mount Diablo acquired the 95 acres on November 28, 2017, for $800,000. “After years of effort, and despite being threatened with a County approved 40lot subdivision plan for forty years, Save Mount Diablo is extremely relieved and pleased to announce that it has successfully acquired and protected the 95-acre Anderson Ranch which is rich in conservation value in the strategic Morgan Territory area. We thank our wonderful supporters and partners for helping us have the ability to complete this deal and with it deliver a holiday gift that will give lasting green returns to our community,” said Ted Clement, Save Mount Diablo Executive Director. “We thought 40 houses were going to be built way out there. Preserving this property protects wonderful habitat and great views of Morgan Territory Regional Preserve and Mt. Diablo State Park,” said Robert Doyle, General Manager, East Bay Regional Park District. The development proposal has come up every ten years or so, then subsided. Each time neighbors and Save Mount Diablo (SMD) have responded but have never been able to stop the project completely, as it received one county development approval extension after another. Until now. the owners of the parcel, the Pacini family, initially placed the property on the market in 2016 for $3 million. They had previously agreed to sell the parcel for development for $5.5 million but the family and developers were delayed by development costs, and endangered species issues and the deal eventually fell apart. In April 2017, when the price dropped to $1.3 million, SMD got involved. “Along with neighbors, Save Mount Diablo opposed development at Anderson Ranch for decades but we also helped create a pathway for this spectacular property’s long-term preservation. It’s a remarkable plateau with incredible views, a park-like appearance and great natural value including a beautiful section of Marsh Creek,” said Meredith Hendricks, SMD Land Programs Director.

“After years of effort, I think the Pacini family simply wanted to resolve the sale of the property,” said Hendricks. “They agreed to sell at the appraised value of $800,000, but we had just 90 days to come up with funding. We closed escrow on November 28, 2017.” Historic Anderson Ranch A fair bit is known about Anderson Ranch because it has its own chapter “Caretakers of the Past” in Anne Homan’s history of Morgan Territory, “The Morning Side of Mount Diablo.” According to Homan’s book, “Chet Anderson had heard of Morgan Territory from his friend Sylvester Olofson. He first came out from Oakland to visit the area in 1918 and

lived well into their 90s, Chet to age 93 when he passed in 1990. Gertrude passed away in 1993. Mountain Meadows Unit II In 1971, most of the historic Anderson Ranch was purchased by developers and the Mountain Meadows subdivision proposed, the first phase west of Marsh Creek. Twenty-one, roughly one-acre lots were created in the first phase, in the northern mile of Morgan Territory Road, including Whispering Pines Road, Shale Cliff Court, and Tumbleweed Court. Together the houses on those streets made up Mountain Meadows, Unit I. In 1977, Mountain Meadows, Unit II was

The valley Sentinel Anderson Ranch Is Lovely The high point of the property is 890 ft., but the views suggest much higher elevations. The property is really a series of knolls rising south up onto small plateaus crossed by several fire roads, which include spectacular views in every direction, and up more heavily wooded Morgan Territory Ridge toward Redleg Peak. Mount Diablo looms to the west past rolling grasslands. A little further south, views stretch up Curry Canyon to Windy Point. To the north are Kreiger Peak, Irish Canyon, and the new Clayton Ranch addition to Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve and the steep ridges above Marsh Creek Road.

Save Mount Diablo’s new 95-acre Anderson Ranch in Morgan Territory, east of Clayton and Mt. Diablo State Park, and surrounding parklands. Map credit: Save Mount Diablo.

promptly fell in love with it. Chet and Gertrude Grace Fey were married on 7 July 1925. On 20 September 1938 they paid Mary Corredo Azevedo Cardoza $12,000 for 435 acres on Morgan Territory Road.” “After tearing down the existing old ranch buildings, [the Andersons] built a barn and then a garage into which they moved in 1938 while their house was being built. Final construction costs for the house in 1941 were $6,500. The Andersons raised horses, sheep, cattle, and pigs and grew hay to feed the animals. Their hayfield was the level plot just north of their house site.” The Andersons lived a full life in Morgan Territory. Bit by bit through the years, Chet sold all his property in Morgan Territory except for the 5-acres including the house. He first sold land on the west side of the road in 1964 and sold the last acreage in 1988. Chet and Gertrude Anderson both

proposed: 69 lots on the 95 acres Save Mount Diablo is purchasing. In May 1981, Contra Costa County approved a revised tentative subdivision map for Mountain Meadows, Unit II, with 46 lots. Time and again the project failed to move forward, but it was granted years of extensions to get final approvals. In mid-2007, Robert Pacini passed away and ownership passed to a group of trustees. A disagreement rose over further extensions of the development contract, and eventually, the deal fell apart. Ironically, Save Mount Diablo, which had opposed the project for years, was the solution. SMD had begun a program piecing together parcels with segments of Marsh Creek—the second longest, least disturbed creek in the county and one incredibly important to wildlife around Diablo. Anderson Ranch includes 2,100 feet of Marsh Creek.

Blue oak woodland covers about a third of the property. Two-thirds are beautiful grasslands. There are two north-facing canyons adjacent to the County Detention Center property, including live oak-bay woodland, and one of the most beautiful ponds in the area, closely edged by oak woodland framing the view of Mt. Diablo. The dam on another pond lower down is broken, but it still retained some water. In the woods, there are volcanic rocks—not unexpected given nearby mini volcanoes east of Anderson Ranch, and at Perkins Canyon west of the

page 7

property—but so far unmapped by geologists. The property drops down to the western boundary, most of which is the centerline of Marsh Creek, with several large floodplains. The creek is broad with wide sinuous gravel floodplains and braided threads of stream, thick with large riparian trees and vegetation: oaks, bays, sycamores, buckeyes. Stewardship is Forever Anderson Ranch isn’t currently a natural addition to parks or for public recreation. It’s adjacent to the large County Detention Center property, including another nice stretch of Marsh Creek. Its legal access is through a neighborhood and the pavement stops at Marsh Creek, with need of an expensive bridge. Now that SMD has completed the purchase, they will spend the next few years getting to know the property and its management needs. They are arranging to continue grazing right now. “Save Mount Diablo, with the help of our supporters and partners, will continue to piece together priority parcels like Anderson Ranch along Marsh Creek,” said Clement. “Looking ahead, we might hold this property long term, and will try to reimburse our costs for this acquisition with fundraising. Or we might locate a single 1-acre house site, protect the remaining 94 acres with a conservation easement and resell the property to a private party. Although our exit strategy isn’t yet clear, we’re being visionary and we took a chance by stretching to protect an important property while it was available and at risk.” Save Mount Diablo SMD is a nationally accredited, non-profit land trust founded in 1971 with a mission to preserve Mount Diablo’s peaks, surrounding foothills, and watersheds through land acquisition and preservation strategies designed to protect the mountain’s natural beauty, biological diversity, and historic and agricultural heritage; enhance our area’s quality of life; and provide recreational opportunities consistent with the protection of natural resources. Learn more at www. savemountdiablo.org.

View west across one pond to Mt. Diablo. Photo credit: Scott Hein.

New Year, New You! page 8

The Valley SenTinel

January 2018

Once Upon a Time

shifts in our culture since the 1960s.” As the stories poured in over the year, more women and men courageously sharing their experiences of to influence us throughout our victimization fired up the lives. But they are more than #MeToo campaign which took the fairy tales that often come off on social media and started after “Once upon a time…” a worldwide conversation. Stories are powerful enough #MeToo has provided a to change each of us, and the simple yet powerful way for world. millions of people to come Today front and center forward in solidarity with in our collective cultural their stories—each individual awareness the power of story story creating the scope of a is on full display. We are larger, collective human story. experiencing a significant On a daily basis we see the c u l t u r a l p a r a d i g m s h i f t far-reaching consequences of regarding sexual abuse and these stories play out in the harassment. And really at its media. We have more venues most fundamental level this for sharing stories than ever shift is fueled by personal before, making their power stories. Without the stories increasingly potent. there would be no movement; With technological without men and women advances beyond the reed voicing their experiences there pens, pigments and papyrus would be no stories. used by ancient Egyptian TIME named the Silence scribes, we use computers, Breakers, the individuals social media, television, who ignited this “national movies and podcasts to bring reckoning” over the extent of our stories to life. Snapchat, sexual harassment, as its 2017 Instagram and Facebook tell Person of the Year. According stories with pictures too, and to the magazine’s editor- Twitter allows mini storytelling in-chief Edward Felsenthal, in a slim 280 characters or less. “The galvanizing actions of But regardless of how they are the women on our cover… told, stories have brought along with those of hundreds about personal and collective of others, and of many men transformation across time as well, have unleashed and culture —partly because one of the highest-velocity they change our brains. Paul J. Zak is the founding director of the Center for Neuroeconomics Studies and a professor of economics, psychology, and management at Claremont Graduate U n i ve rs i t y. S o m e o f h i s research on the neurobiology of storytelling shows that stories change our attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors. Additionally, in a 2010 Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences study, the psychologist Uri Hasson and his Princeton University colleagues studied volunteer’s brains as they were speaking and listening to stories. They found that speakers’ and listeners’ brains lit up in similar areas as stories were told and heard. And the area of the brain that showed activity was a region governing empathy and moral sensibilities; the area that helps us imagine other people’s thoughts and feelings. Michael J. Tomcik, MD If storytelling has a super AdvAnced LAser Board Certified Dermatologist Over 35 years experience skin cAre center power it seems to be this—to 101 Park Place Medical Group, iNc. connect us to each other and San Ramon our humanity. Stories provide a 925-743-1488 www.SanRamonDerm.com lens through which to see each other’s experiences. Our brains Introducing Ultherapy are hard-wired to be changed • Only FDA approved,

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At home, in schools or churches, around fires or hearth, tucked in bed or sitting around a community circle—as kids we grow up with stories. Stories take many forms: they

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valleysentinel.com by stories so at our core, we have the potential to be forever altered by stories and each other. Whether they come to life on paper or screens, through dance or song, or fly through the air wirelessly into our ears, stories motivate us to see the world in new ways. When the time is ripe, this new perspective invokes change. The Intuitive Writing Project, a non-profit o rg a n i z a t i o n i n O r i n d a , California leads writing based empowerment programs for teen girls. At the core of their mission is the belief in the revolutionary power of story telling. According to Founder and Executive Director Elizabeth Perlman, “The world we live in is shaped by the stories that are written. Through the process of telling our story, we learn the value and power of our own perspective, giving voice to what was hidden and galvanizing social change.” In short, stories are the fire starters. Learning the value and power of our perspective provides the courage to voice our experiences for both personal empowerment and collective change. When awardwinning actor and producer Salma Hayek shared her very personal story of harassment, she admitted initially hiding from the responsibility to speak out with the excuse that enough people were already involved in shining a light on the issue. Additionally she said, “I didn’t consider my voice important, nor did I think it would make a difference.” This is where the super power of story really matters—that honoring our own stories and the truths of others is what connects and emboldens us— ultimately our voice does make a difference and is in fact, the most important thing. With a New Year upon us we may reflect back on the stories of 2017 and how they have shaped us. As we enter 2018 remember we tell ourselves stories too, with an internal dialog constantly trying to make sense of things through story. Some of these stories are true and some are not—can you reconcile them for the sake of your own wellbeing? And can you set a New Year’s resolution to honor the power of your own stories and to truly listen to stories of others? The transformative power of story is available to each of us if we remember that every voice counts.

New Year, New You ! valleysentinel.com LION from page 1

with the exception of Florida. Through the first half of the 20th century, management emphasized preemptive eradication. Bounties were paid as an incentive to remove mountain lions for protection of wild ungulates and domestic livestock. The payments were significant for the time. In the 1920’s, California paid bounties of $30 for a female mountain lion and $20 for a male. Bounties continued to be paid throughout the western states into the 1960’s, when mountain lion management shifted to a brief non-bountied but non-protected status. Coincident with the abolishment of bounties, depredation policies became less preemptive and more reactive, targeting mountain lions associated with livestock losses. By the early 1970’s, mountain lions were managed as a game species across most states and provinces. This represented the first form of protection for mountain lion populations. An average of 156 special, depredation permits were issued annually in California from 2005 to 2009, with an average of 73 mountain lions killed each year during this period. On June 5, 1990, the voters of California approved Proposition 117, the California Wildlife Protection Act, prohibiting the sport hunting of the California Mountain Lion, where they remain a “specially protected species”, and requiring California to spend no less than $30 million a year on wildlife habitat protection and related purposes. Today, an estimated 4,000 to 5,000 mountain lions inhabit California. Management of mountain lions is difficult for several reasons: they are secretive, they exist at low population densities, they impact wild and domestic prey, they can threaten human safety, and public attitudes about them differ widely. Although mountain lions are widely distributed in western North America and are not endangered, landscapes and human attitudes are

January 2018 changing rapidly and bringing new management challenges. In California, the statewide deer population has dropped from 2 million in the 1960’s to about 445,000, according to the CDFW. For decades, the state’s population growth has converted over 75,000 acres of wildlife habitat per year to housing. Logging, agriculture, and other practices have dramatically reduced or altered habitat. Next to humans, the mountain lion is the chief predator of deer, with individuals taking about 50 deer annually, which increases the desire of some hunters to eliminate their competition. In National Parks and other areas where deer are not hunted, mountain lions are a necessary control on deer populations, and their presence should be encouraged. Mountain lions do not exterminate deer. The predator-prey relationship of mountain lions and deer was in balance for millennia, long before humans were present or began management programs. I suggest there are three separate subpopulations of the Contra Costa County metapopulation of mountain lions. They are isolated, disjunct populations where Highways 680, 580, 80, and 24 present ecological barriers to mountain lion dispersal, thereby threatening their existence. I’ve named them the Briones, Las Trampas, and Diablo populations. At present, it is unknown if these subpopulations are source populations, where mean growth rate is positive, or sink populations, where mean growth rate is negative. Anecdotal data suggests they are still source populations. Empirical data from research will provide much needed information on their population dynamics. In the absence of immigration of new individuals into a subpopulation, hybrid vigor and genetic diversity are lost, and the population eventually collapses due to inbreeding, disease, and other factors. Dispersing mountain lions

are forced to navigate across these ecological barriers such as freeways, suburbanization, and other obstacles to their movements. The identification, preservation, conservation, and management of the critical habitat linkages are becoming increasingly more important if mountain lions are to remain an integral component of our landscape. Currently I and other researchers have remote infrared, motion detection trail cameras deployed in the East Bay. We hope to initiate a satellite biotelemetry study soon which will provide much needed data on east bay mountain lion population dynamics. A s ava i l a b l e h a b i t a t diminishes and mountain lion populations reach the carrying capacity, human - mountain lion interactions continue to increase. Such was the case in Cupertino recently when a mountain lion attacked a young boy. Mountain lions which show aggressive behavior or attack humans are euthanized. Senate Bill 132 requires the California Department of Fish and Wildlife to utilize nonlethal options when responding to mountain lion incidents that don’t pose an immediate risk to humans. Most of these encounters involve starving or dispersing subadult mountain lions in search of their own territories. Here are some compelling facts. Since 1890, in California, there have been only 6 deaths and 17 confirmed attacks by mountain lions on humans. Deer have injured over 500,000 humans and killed over 3,000 nationally in the past 100 years. One has a 1,000X greater chance being struck by lightning and 500X greater chance of being attacked and killed by a domestic dog or deer, than encountering a mountain lion. Humans have a 1 in 775 million chance of making contact with a mountain lion in the western United States, and 1 in 3.4 billion for the entire country. In South Dakota, humans have a 1 in 65 chance of colliding with a deer in your automobile. I have been blessed with nearly 20 chance encounters with mountain lions in my field experience and never was threatened with aggressive behavior. We need to continue to support our local conservation organizations such as the East Bay Regional Parks District, Mount Diablo State Park, EBMUD, CCWD, Save Mount Diablo, Muir Heritage Land Trust, Felidae

The Valley SenTinel Conservation Fund, California Mountain Lion Foundation, and our open spaces, which provide much needed habitat.

page 9

James M. Hale is a wildlife biologist and Vice Chair of the Contra Costa Fish and Wildlife Committee.

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valleysentinel.com

January 2018

Your Medicare costs in 2018 By Greg Dill

How much will your Medicare cost in the coming year? The numbers just came out, so let’s go over them. We ’ l l s t a r t w i t h t h e Medicare Part B premium. Part B covers doctor services, outpatient hospital services, certain home health services, durable medical equipment, and other items. The standard monthly premium for people with Part B will be $134 for 2018, the same amount as in 2017. Under the law, people

with Part B pay 25 percent of the costs of running the program, with the government picking up 75 percent. A statutory “hold harmless” provision applies each year to about 70 percent of Part B enrollees. For these enrollees, any increase in Part B premiums must be lower than any cost-of-living increase in their Social Security benefits. After several years of no or very small increases, Social Security benefits will increase by 2 percent in 2018 due to a cost-of-living adjustment. Therefore, some beneficiaries who were held harmless against Part B premium increases in prior years will see a higher premium in 2018. Part B enrollees held harmless in 2016 and 2017 will

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

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

Community Input We at The Valley Sentinel welcome comments and suggestions from the community at large. We love hearing from you! However, consideration is only given to those who provide their name, address and phone number. Two-way communication is essential for growth and understanding. Write us at P.O. Box 1309, Danville, 94526, email to drousset@valleysentinel.com, or call us at 925820-6047. Thank you! —Denise Rousset, Publisher

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see an increase in their Part B premiums from the roughly $109, on average, they paid in 2017. An estimated 42 percent of Part B enrollees are subject to the hold harmless provision in 2018 but will pay the full premium of $134, because the increase in their Social Security benefit will be greater than or equal to an increase in their Part B premiums up to the full 2018 amount. About 28 percent of Part B enrollees are subject to the hold harmless provision in 2018 but will pay less than the full $134 premium. That’s because the increase in their Social Security benefit isn’t big enough to cover the full Part B premium increase. The remaining 30 percent of Part B enrollees aren’t subject to the hold harmless provision and will pay the full $134 per month in 2018. This group includes beneficiaries who don’t receive Social Security benefits; enroll in Part B for the first time in 2018; are directly billed for their Part B premium; are eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid and

have their premiums paid by state Medicaid agencies; and pay higher premiums because their incomes are higher. Since 2007, beneficiaries with higher incomes have paid higher Part B premiums. These higher premiums apply to about 5 percent of people with Part B. Fo r a c h a r t s h ow i n g premiums at higher income levels, go to: https:// www.cms.gov/Newsroom/ M e d i a Re l e a s e D a t a b a s e / Fact-sheets/2017-Fact-Sheetitems/2017-11-17.html The annual deductible for Part B will be $183 in 2018, the same amount as in 2017. Now let’s take a look at Medicare Part A, which covers inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing services, and some home health services. A b o u t 9 9 p e rc e n t o f Medicare beneficiaries don’t pay any Part A premium since they’ve worked for at least 40 quarters in Medicare-covered jobs. The Part A deductible that beneficiaries pay when admitted to the hospital in 2018 will be $1,340 per benefit period, a rise of $24 from 2017. The Part A deductible covers

beneficiaries’ share of costs for the first 60 days of Medicarecovered inpatient hospital care in a benefit period. Beneficiaries must pay a coinsurance amount of $335 per day for the 61st through 90th day of a hospitalization (versus $329 in 2017) in a benefit period, and $670 per day for lifetime reserve days ($658 in 2017). Fo r b e n e f i c i a r i e s i n skilled nursing facilities, the daily coinsurance for days 21 through 100 of extended care services in a benefit period will be $167.50 in 2018 ($164.50 in 2017). You can find an explanation of benefit periods (and lots of other valuable information) in the “Medicare & You” handbook, at https://www. medicare.gov/medicare-andyou/medicare-and-you.html Happy holidays to you and your loved ones! 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).

Volunteers Sought for Park, Museum and Visitor Center Enhanced visitor experience planned through multiagency initiative “Access M e m b e rs o f t h e S a n Ramon Valley community are encouraged to share their love of Danville history and lend their time as volunteers at either the Museum of the San Ramon Valley, Town of Danville Visitor Center or the Eugene O’Neill National Historic Site. The museum and information center are housed in the restored 1891 Southern Pacific Railroad depot at the corner of Railroad and Prospect Avenues, and the O’Neill Historic Site is a unit of the National Park Service located in the western hills of Danville. Through a collaboration between the Museum of the San Ramon Valley, Town of Danville, and National Park Service, an enhanced visitor experience is being planned for 2018. Regular, committed volunteers are needed in order to fulfill this community service. Enhancements to the visitor experience being planned at the Museum of the San Ramon Valley include expanded operating hours, supplemental

visitor information, and the integration of interpretive information about the Eugene O’Neill National Historic Site (NHS), which is open for tours Wednesday throughSunday. “This expanded partnership among the M u s e u m , N a t i o n a l Pa r k S e r v i c e, a n d Tow n w i l l provide residents and visitors enhanced information and services at the historic Train Depot and the National Historic Site,” stated Town Ad m i n i s t ra t i ve S e r v i c e s Director Nat Rojanasathira. “Community volunteers are now needed to help bring this effort to fruition.” “The Museum of the San Ramon Valley will continue to provide valuable collections, exhibits and information that celebrate our history and heritage,” stated Museum of the San Ramon Valley Executive Director Dan Dunn. “By partnering with the Town and the National Park Service, we can help build our volunteer base and open our doors to more visitors.”

to the Eugene O’Neill National Historic Site starts with shuttle service at the Museum of the San Ramon Valley”, stated National Park Service Superintendent Tom Leatherman, who oversees the National Historic Site. He added, “It is a natural fit for us to work together with the Museum and Town to bring more information about Eugene O’Neill and the site to Historic Downtown Danville.” Volunteers are being asked to complete a volunteer interest form by January 31, 2018. To complete the form, visit www. danville.ca.gov For more information, contact Museum of the San Ramon Valley Executive Director Dan Dunn at museumsrv@ sbcglobal.net or (925) 8373 7 50 ; To w n o f D a n v i l l e Ad m i n i s t r a t i v e S e r v i c e s Director Nat Rojanasathira at nrojanasathira@danville. ca.gov or (925) 314-3328; or Eugene O’Neill NHS Chief of Interpretation Kelli English at kelli_english@nps.gov or (925) 838-0249 x6421.

valleysentinel.com

January 2018 Sponsored Content

Divorce Planning and the Financial Ramifications By Robert Cucchiaro

For a variety of reasons, studies have shown that January sees more divorce filings than any other month. When contemplating a divorce, the 1st place you probably go is to google to find a local divorce attorney. And while there is nothing wrong with that, to make sure you get the most financially out of your divorce you will need more than just a great attorney at your side. Here is a short list of financial areas that should be addressed when planning your divorce: • Division of Assets – Don’t assume all assets will be split evenly. Often times there was separate property brought into a marriage and this has to be accounted for differently. Plus not all assets are treated equal in the eyes of the IRS when it comes to taxes. You might have cash value in a life insurance policy, a 401K from work, a brokerage account and a rental house - all of these assets have very different tax treatment. • A l i m o ny / S p o u s a l Support – Many factors go into establishing what is fair here, how long payments will last, etc. • C h i l d S u p p o r t – while the ending date here is clear, there are still many other variables that go into determining this amount. • A n n u a l b o n u s income or stock options/ restricted stock sales – many families in Danville & Alamo receive a large year-end bonus or sell options/RSUs each year to fund annual living expenses. Be sure to factor these in as well when negotiating ongoing support payments. • Life & Disability insurance – if your financial livelihood is dependent upon spousal & child support payments, what happens if something happens to the person working & making those payments? Consider buying both life ins. & disability ins. on your ex-spouse to back-stop these payments. • College funding – while there is no law that says parents have to pay for their kids’ college, it is something you should negotiate during your divorce settlement. Especially if college savings plans are already in place.

• Health insurance – Given the increased cost of health ins. this has to be a major consideration when negotiating what is fair in a divorce. • Estate planning – last but not least, your Wills, Trust, health care directives and financial powers of attorney will all need to be redone as a result of your divorce. And in the event you get remarried, may need to be redone again. As financial planners we are often hired to help someone make a large, important, and irrevocable decision. They have 1 chance to get this right and the financial implications of a mistake are enormous. Planning for a divorce is a great example of this, and that is why our firm has offered this service on a flat-fee basis for over 2 decades. On a similar note, Summit Wealth is also pleased to announce the addition of our newest team member Debbie Pham, EA. Debbie is an IRS enrolled agent with over 15 years of tax planning experience, including 11 with Ernst & Young where she was a Tax Manager in their high net worth tax group. Debbie’s specialties include complex tax planning for high-net worth families and strategic tax planning for local business owners. As many of you know, Summit Wealth & Retirement offers in-house tax preparation & bookkeeping through our sister company, Summit Tax Planning (formerly known as Data Count Tax). This combination allows us to offer one-stop-shop financial advice for clients who want their taxes and their financial planning & investment management fully integrated. Not having your tax preparer and your Certified Financial Planner on the same page could be costing you thousands of dollars in unnecessary taxes each year. Robert Cucchiaro is a Certified Financial Planner and owner of Summit Wealth & Retirement, a financial planning firm that has been serving Danville for over 30 years. Rob specializes in helping people reduce their tax bills, enjoy a comfortable retirement, and pass along wealth to their loved ones. www. summitwealthandretirement. com

The valley Sentinel

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SRVUSD honored 8 years running San Ramon Valley Unified School District (SRVUSD) is the only school district in California and one of two in the U.S. and Canada to be honored by the College Board with placement on the Annual AP® District Honor Roll for all eight years of the program. To be included on the 8th Annual Honor Roll, SRVUSD had to, since 2015, increase the number of students participating in AP while also increasing or maintaining the percentage of students earning AP Exam scores of 3 or higher. Reaching these goals shows that SRVUSD is successfully identifying motivated, academically prepared students who are ready for AP. “We are pleased to have achieved this honor for the eighth consecutive year. It is a true testament to the work and commitment of San Ramon Valley Unified School District, our employees and parent community in providing all students the opportunity to reach their highest potential,” said SRVUSD Superintendent Rick Schmitt. National data from 2017 show that among American Indian/Alaska Native, Black/ African American, Hispanic/ Latino, and Native Hawaiian/ Other Pacific Islander students with a high degree of readiness for AP, only about half are participating. The first step to getting more of these students to participate is to give them access. Courses must be made available, gatekeeping must stop, and doors must be equitably opened. SRVUSD is committed to expanding

the availability of AP courses among prepared and motivated students of all backgrounds. “Congratulations to all the educators and administrators in this district who have worked to clear a path for more students of all backgrounds to participate and succeed in AP,” said Trevor Packer, head of AP and Instruction. “These educators and administrators are fostering a culture in their schools and classrooms that allows students to face new challenges and build the confidence to succeed.” Helping more students learn at a higher level and earn higher AP scores is an objective of all members of the AP community, from AP teachers to district and school administrators to college professors. Many districts are experimenting with initiatives and strategies to see how they can expand access and improve student performance at the same time. In 2017, more than 4,000 colleges and universities around the world received AP scores for college credit, advanced placement, or both, and/or consideration in the admissions process. Inclusion in the 8th Annual AP District Honor Roll is based on a review of three years of AP data, from 2015 to 2017, looking across 38 AP Exams, including world language and culture. The following criteria were used. Districts must: • Increase participation/ access to AP by at least 4% in large districts, at least 6% in medium districts, and at least 11% in small districts;

• I n c r e a s e d or maintained the percentage of American Indian/Alaska Native, Black/African American, Hispanic/Latino, and Native Hawaiian/Other Pacific Islander students taking exams and increased or maintained the percentage of American Indian/Alaska Native, Black/ African American, Hispanic/ Latino, and Native Hawaiian/ Other Pacific Islander students scoring 3+ on at least one AP Exam; and • Improve or maintain performance levels when comparing the 2017 percentage of students scoring a 3 or higher to the 2015 percentage, unless the district has already attained a performance level at which more than 70% of its AP students earn a 3 or higher. • When these outcomes have been achieved among an AP student population in which 30% or more are underrepresented minority students (American Indian/ Alaska Native, Black/African American, Hispanic/Latino and Native Hawaiian/Other Pacific Islander) and/or 30% or more are low-income students (students who qualify for free or reduced-price lunch), a symbol has been affixed to the district name to highlight this work. SRVUSD is one of 447 school districts in the U.S. and Canada that is a leader making access to—and success in—AP courses a priority. The complete 8th Annual AP District Honor Roll can be found here: https:// apcentral.collegeboard.org/ score-reports-data/awards/ honor-roll

New Danville Skateboard Park In Time For through seasoned 40 year The Olympics! By Town of Danville Councilmember Karen Stepper

Soon after I joined the Danville Council in 2002, I started attending conference workshops about Skateboard Parks. A state law had assumed the liability problem, and cities began building skateboard facilities—Concord, Dublin, Pleasanton, Livermore, Napa, San Ramon. Although a few kids would ask for a skatepark every few years, I couldn’t find enough interest among council members till now. Danville has hired a skatepark consultant to determine the size, location, and feasibility of a state-of-the-art facility. Our consultant, Aaron Spohn is a highly qualified experienced “skater” who has built over a thousand skateboard parks— all visible on the Spohn Ranch website. Aaron Spohn is proving himself a master at

bringing in public feedback and owns the entire designbuild process from start to finish—designer contractor, and steel fabricator—truly taking responsibility for our success. Visit the Town of Danville website if you want to give feedback, too! Participate? The Skateboard Park Community Design Meeting was held just before Christmas. Aaron Spohn was a great teacher of ways to bring in a good deal of feedback—assisted by the outreach of our Recreation Director Henry Perezalonzo and our public relations guru Geoff Gillette. Over 65 skaters joined the workshop and are now following it on Facebook (under Town of Danville Skatepark). Skaters f ro m e l e m e n t a r y s c h o o l

olds brought stories of their experiences to the Veterans Hall. After roundtable comments on the aging parks in nearby communities, each attendee “voted” for his or her favorite parks/topography and gathered three-deep around a table to talk about design aspects—complete with small skateboard features in 3D. At this point, the considerations of lighting, terrain, accessibility to skaters, and visibility all point to Sycamore Valley Park. Skate Culture? I have taken my grandkids at 6 and 9 years old) to skateboard lesson several times—reminding them that my son skateboarded from the age of 5. In fact, Danville had RobSkate give lessons at Charlotte Wood See SKATEBOARD page 15

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For additional Community Events visit: www.ValleySentinel.com Please email information about your events to info@valleysentinel.com COMMUNITY EVENTS January 12 New Year, Take Care of You! Senior Luncheon 11am–1pm It’s the New Year! The stressful time of the holidays is behind us. It’s time to take care of you! Don’t miss this unique opportunity to start your heath regime off in a stress free environment. Attend a lunch and receive a number of different health screenings at the same time! Blood Pressure, Hearing, Vision, Diabetes and Balance testing will be available! Lunch is included, so please come from 11am to 1pm to the Danville Senior Center, located at 115 E Prospect Ave, Danville. January 20 USA Fit East Bay Marathon Training 8am Thinking about setting a new fitness goal for 2018? Train with USA Fit East Bay to complete a 10k, or the half or full San Francisco Marathon. Or just run with us for fun, fitness or to meet new friends! USA Fit East Bay coaches will help you achieve your goals in a nonintimidating, fun, friendly environment. We meet at a variety of East Bay locations each Saturday and provide a training schedule to follow during the week. Register in person at Osage Park, located at 816 Brookside Dr, Danville, CA 94526 For info call (925) 314-3400. January 21 Sunday Pasta Dinner at San Damaino 4:30-6:30pm Enjoy a family style pasta dinner this Sunday at the lovely San Damiano Retreat. Cost is $15 for adults and $10 for kids 12 and under. Dine with us 5 times and the 6th time is free! To make reservations call 925-837-9141x 315, or visit www.sandamiano.org. San Damiano is located at 710 Highland Drive, Danville, CA 94526. January 26-28 Danville Library Book Sale Find a wonderful selection of titles at bargain prices all weekend long at the Friends’ of the Danville Library Quarterly Large Book Sale all weekend long from 12:05am to 3:45pm! January 28 Big Book Sale at San Ramon Library 1-4pm Open to the Public: Presented by the San Ramon Library Foundation January 27 & 28, 2018 at the San Ramon Library, 100 Montgomery Street in San Ramon. Thousands of quality books in all genres will be sold at great low prices of $.50 per item. There will be a huge selection of children and young adult books. The sale hours are: Jan. 27 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.: San Ramon Library Foundation Members Only; 12-4:00 p.m.: Open to the Public; Jan. 28, 1-4:00 p.m.: Open to the Public. Bring the whole family! ONGOING Special Services for Children with Cancer and Their Families Cancer Support Community offers short-term counseling (12 to 20 sessions) at no cost to children with cancer and their families. Counseling can be for the family, siblings, and/or kids coping with cancer. Counseling is provided by doctoral interns or post doctoral fellows under the supervision of our clinical psychologists. To request this service, please call us at 925-933-0107 and ask to speak with our program director, Margaret Stauffer, LMFT. Hope Hospice seeking volunteers Hope Hospice is currently looking for individuals who are interested in volunteering to assist hospice patients and their families. Volunteer opportunities include; Home Care; Cosmetology; Healing Touch; Reiki; Massage Therapy; Vocalists. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, contact Jill Biggs, RN, at 925-829-8770. Volunteers Needed: Read to Preschoolers Volunteers are needed at childcare centers in Concord, Pittsburg, and West County. The Contra Costa County Library will supply books and resources. For more information, please contact Maureen Kilmurray at 925-927-3288. Alamo Farmer’s Market Every Sunday, Year round 9am-2pm, rain or shine. Fresh seasonal fruit and vegetables, nuts, local honey, live music, delicious varieties of hummus with fresh pita and pita chips. Located in the Alamo Plaza Shopping Center, at Stone Valley Road and Danville Blvd., with convenient parking. 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 Class Each Saturday 10-11am. Become a puppy raiser! The East Bay Miracles Chapter invites you to help train puppies to become assistant dogs for children and adults with disabilities. 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: 925973-3284 or visit www.sanramon.ca.gov. Saturday without Reservations at the Tao House Every Saturday 10am, 12pm, and 2pm. Come explore this National Historic Site in Danville. Catch the shuttle at the bus stop in front of the Museum of the San Ramon Valley, 205 Railroad Ave. www.EugeneOneill.org SENIORS Danville Seniors Unless otherwise noted, the following activities are held at the Danville Senior Center, Veterans Memorial Building, 115 E. Prospect, Danville. For more information call 925-314-3490 or visit www.ci.danville.ca.us/ Recreation/Seniors. Sneaker Trips: The Town of Danville’s Senior Sneakers program is a great way for you to make new friends and get out and around the greater Bay Area. There’s always something new to see and learn. The Danville Area Senior Hikes (DASH) is open to all adults and meets on the second and fourth Wednesday of every month. The group starts at 8:45am at Osage Park, 816 Brookside Drive, Danville and returns about 1pm. Information: 925-314-3400 or visit www.ci.danville.ca.us/Recreation/Seniors/ Senior_Hiking. San Ramon Seniors The following events are held at the Alcosta Senior & Community Center, 9300 Alcosta Blvd., San Ramon, unless otherwise noted. For more information call 925-973-3250 or visit www.sanramon.ca.gov/ parks/programs/ages55+.htm. Wisdom Wednesdays: 10:30am-12pm. Free workshops and informational sessions that will beneﬁt you. They will give you free access to coffee, knowledge and a better understanding of important issues. Information: 925973-3250. Trips Trip Desk is open Tuesdays from 10am-1pm. Sign up for trips at the travel desk or by depositing payment with registration form in the gold drop box found at the main entryway. Information: 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. 925973-2850. BUSINESS January 11 After Hours Business Mixer 5:30-7pm Join the Danville Area Chamber of Commerce and the local business community at the January After Hours Business Mixer to be held at The Studio, located at 730 Camino Ramon, Ste. 200 in Danville. Refreshments, networking and new faces! Members $5. Non-members, $10. For more information call the Chamber at (925) 837-4400.

January 16 Exploring Business Ownership, In Contra Costa County, For A Better L.I.F.E. 9:00-11:00am. Exploring Business Ownership, in Contra Costa County, for a Better L.I.F.E: Lifestyle, Income, Freedom, Equity. Have you considered business ownership as a career path? We will examine and discuss: Four approaches to business ownership and deciding on the best one for you: Independent Startup, Startup Resale, New Franchise Startup, Resale Franchise and each of their pros and cons. How to identify the type of business and industry where you will most succeed in your goals based on your talents, experience and personality. How to finance a small business including paying yourself during ramp-up. What resources around you will help you succeed in business. FREE. 300 Ellinwood Way, Bodega Room, Pleasant Hill. Call Oscar Dominguez at (925) 602-6806 January 17, 18 & 19 Kickstart Your Success 8:30am In just one hour, a Peak Performance Strategist from Tony Robbins can create an immediate shift in your team’s performance. Peak Performance Strategist Scott Gass will be conducting your Turning Action Into Results workshop. Wednesday, January 17 & Friday, January 19 at 8:30am at the Chamber Offices, 117 E Town & Country Drive Thursday January 18, 8:30am at the Danville Community Center (Valley Oak Room) 420 Front Street, Danville .For information call the Danville area Chamber of Commerce at (925) 837-4400 January 17, 24, and 29 9:00am to 12:00pm Sales and Marketing (i.e., Business Development) is absolutely essential for any successful business. Marketing research is the first important step in the process (evaluating the market conditions, barriers to entry, competitors, etc.). Sales is the next component of Business Development and normally the hardest activity for most people. It requires “face to face” interaction with the potential client and the associated fear of rejection. This course has three Modules; January 17, 2018-9am-12pm-Module 1: Introduction to Sales and Marketing Concepts January 24, 2018-9am-12pm-Module 2: Business Development strategies and tools for obtaining work from: · Private Sector firms · Local, State and Federal agencies · Foreign clients with operations both in the US and internationally January 29, 2018-9am-12pm-Module 3: Business Development tools and sales strategies to allow a person the greatest chance of success in obtaining work. This session also includes modules on business dining (and manners) and business travel tips. Victor Johnson (Vic) is a Professional Civil Engineer who has 45 years of experience in the Sales and Marketing of Professional Services. He has specialized in growing small businesses into large businesses. Contra Costa SBDC, 300 Ellinwood Way, 2nd Floor, Pleasant Hill Call for reservation or questions: Oscar Dominguez, (925) 602-6806. January 18 Third Thursday Mixer - Victory Workspace & Income Tax Services of San Ramon 5:30-7:00pm Please join The San Ramon Chamber of Commerce for our Third Thursday Mixer at Victory Workspace in Danville! This is a joint Mixer with San Ramon Chamber Members, Victory Workspace and Income Tax Service of San Ramon. Meet other business owners for an opportunity to network and make your business more visible. $5 for Members and $20 for Non-Members. No RSVP Required. Checks and Cash only please. February 6 Writing And Publishing Books For Profit 9am-11am. Many first-time writers just start writing with their primary emphasis on content, style, grammar, etc. Little initial consideration is paid towards writing in a manner that will lead to getting their book published and hopefully getting paid for it.. This class focuses on the practical considerations associated with writing a book that will ultimately be published and financially successful (and create new businesses). Victor Johnson (Vic) has written six highly acclaimed books. He has about 6000 readers. The course is designed for people that want to understand the details essential for successful writing, publishing and marketing of books. Contra Costa SBDC, 300 Ellinwood Way, 2nd Floor, Pleasant Hill. Call for reservation or questions: Oscar Dominguez, (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

Please email your calendar events to the Sentinel at Info@valleysentinel.com by 5pm on the 15th of the month preceding publication month. Inclusion in the calendar pages is at the sole discretion of Sentinel Newspapers, Inc.

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valleysentinel.com 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 Danville Veteran Service Organizations 8am-11am Every Saturday at Veterans Memorial Building of San Ramon Valley – in Danville – the VSOs jointly host a “Veterans Coffee Social” from 8AM until 11AM… Bring a friend or fellow Veteran and show them the museum - share some social time. Drop In - no reservations – all Veterans welcome… stop for a few minutes - or stay for hours! WW II Vet & Senior Docent Art Gaskns has pastries waiting for you! Please share information about our VMB /SRV Military Museum & Library open daily M-F from 9-3 and it’s free! Tri-Valley Fly Fishers Visitors welcome. 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 January 9 ADAS (Alamo Danville Artist Society) monthly meeting 7:30pm Live demonstration by watercolor artist Charlotte Severin, award winning Bay Area Plein Air artist whose works are displayed in public and private collections in the United States and in many foreign countries. Charlotte will be demonstrating watercolor on Yupo paper. Yupo is an alternative to traditional art papers and is water resistant, very strong, and durable. The results can feature intense colors, crisp edges, and create unique textural effects. Meeting held At the Alamo Women’s Club, 1401 Danville Blvd., Alamo for more information visit www.ADAS4art.org. January 13 California Writers Club: “Pitching: Telling the Story of Your Story” 1-2pm Novelist, stage director, and performance coach Amana McTigue will present “Pitching: Telling the Story of Your Story” 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/. January 23 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 orga-

January 2018 nization, 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 January 23rd from 10:00 AM to Noon. RSVP to alamodanvillenewcomers@ gmail.com. Visit www.alamodanvillenewcomers.com 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 Degre. For information contact Soni at 286-1737 for details. Visit dawca.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 11am. Meets the third Monday of each month, except for May and December. Make new friends, participate in fun activities. Make $15 luncheon reservations by calling 925-322-1160 by the preceding Wednesday. Walnut Creek Elks Lodge, 1475 Creekside Dr, Walnut Creek. Information: visit www. Branch116.org. 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: 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. 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 Rosemarie Kleinberg @925 838 7870. San Ramon Valley Geneological Society 10am. Meets every third Tuesday at the LDS Church, 2949 Stone Valley Road, Alamo. http://srvgensoc.org Walnut Creek Rotary 12:15-1:30pm. Meets every Tuesday. Heather Farms Garden Center, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: rotarywc.org. ARF Pet Loss Support Group 5:30-7pm. Meets second Tuesday of every month. Register with Vicki at 925887-5681 or vickis@hospiceeastbay. org. ARF, 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: arf.net. Divorced and Separated Workshop 7- 8:30pm. A new workshop series for divorced and separated people is being held on at St. Joan of Arc Parish, 2601 San Ramon Valley Blvd., San Ramon. Contact: Sue at smc9@sbcglobal.net. 925 -819-1809. Prostate Cancer Group 7:30–9pm. Meets 2nd Tuesday of the month. Drop-in prostate cancer group for men and their loved ones. San Ramon Regional Medical Center, South Building, West Day Room. 6001 Norris Canyon Road, San Ramon. Information: 925.933.0107 or www.twc-bayarea.org/ community-programs.html. Wednesdays: Danville Tennis Club (DTC) 6:30-9 PM Wednesday Night Drop-In 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 Walnut Creek Toastmasters 7-8:15pm. Meets every Wednesday. 1660 Oak Park Blvd., Pleasant Hill. Information: walnutcreek.freetoasthost. net 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. 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 925-2752412. Info: www.srvexchangeclub.org Alamo Rotary 12:15pm. Meets every Wednesday. Crow Canyon Country Club, 711 Silver Lake Dr., Danville. Info: alamorotary. org.

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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.

Rotary Club of San Ramon 11:45am. Meets every Thursday. Crow Canyon Country Club, 711 Silver Lake Drive, Danville. Information: sanramonrotary.org.

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 Kiwanis Club Thursday at Noon. Black Bear Diner, 807 Camino Ramon, Danville. www. kiwanis-srv.org

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. Veterans of Foreign Wars 7pm. Meets the third Wednesday of every month. Veterans Memorial Hall, 400 Hartz Avenue, Danville. Information: Post Commander Ernie Petagara at 925-362-9806 or vfwpost75.org. Diablo Singles Dance Club 7-10pm. Meets the last Wednesday of every month. Live music, refreshments. Members $8, Guests $12. All welcome. 111N. Wiget Lane, Walnut Creek. Danville Toastmasters Club #1785 7:30-9pm. Meets every Wednesday. Room W204 at Diablo Valley College,1690 Watermill Road, San Ramon. Information: danvilletoastmasters1785.com. 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. The Danville Women’s Club invites you to lunch with socializing at 11, lunch at 11:30, and a guest speaker at noon. Contact Lynne Vuskovic at (925) 285-8285 or e-mail danvillewc@gmail. com to RSVP. Located at 242 West Linda Mesa Avenue. San Ramon Valley Newcomers 11:30am-2pm. Meets the third Thursday of every month with a featured guest speaker at a local Tri-Valley restaurant. New and long-time adult residents are welcome. Reservations/information: susansgotbling@sbcglobal.net or www. srvnc.com.

Clutterers Anonymous 7-8pm. Meets the 2nd and 4th Thursday of every month. St. Luke’s Lutheran Church Room 3,  2491 San Miguel Drive, W   alnut Creek. Information: 925736-8627. Diablo Valley Lions Club 7:30pm. Meets the 1st, 3rd, and 4th Thursday of every month. 1400 Montego Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: diablovalleyca.lionwap.org. Fridays: Transitions-“Navigating Life’s Turning Points Together” 9-11:30am. Our mission is to encourage and support women from empty nest, to aging parents and everything in between. Community Presbyterian Church, Room 116, 222 W. El Pintado Rd., Danville. Information: Contact Donna Hill at hillmom3@comcast.net Saturdays: Diablo Region of the Porsche Club of America 7:30-9am. Meets every Saturday. Buttercup Bar and Grill, 660 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek. Information: diablo-pca.org. Parkinson’s Disease Support Group 9am-12pm. Meets every 3rd Saturday. 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 9394210 or Ronnie Wanetick at 933-6357.

Help Wanted Senior IT Applications Engineer: Bach. in C.S., Engineering or rltd. & 5 yrs. rltd. exp. CV to: Bank of the West, careers@bankofthewest. com. Position in San Ramon, CA. Senior Business Analyst: Bach. in C.S., Engineering, or rltd. & 5 yrs. rltd. exp. CV to: Bank of the West, careers@bankofthewest. com. Position in San Ramon, CA. Engineer/Software: Resp for analyzing, designing & developing core modules of the system & testing & deployment on live environment. Res to Netpace, Inc, 5000 Executive Parkway, #530, San Ramon, CA 94583. Attn: HR Job#NPY0021.

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

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The Valley SenTinel

AUTO March 2009 January 2018

2017 Ford F-150 Supercrew 4x4 Raptor By David and Judy Colman

The first definition of raptor in Webster’s is not a bird of prey, but rather “a plunderer, a ravisher.” Now here’s a truck that will plunder the earth while you ravish its performance. Instead of claws, Ford’s Raptor uses monster truck treads to get the job done: 315/70/R17 BFGoodrich T/A KO2s at each corner mounted on behemoth optional ($1,185) forged alloy wheels equipped with bead locks. Aside from those modest charcoal and silver alloy rims, there is absolutely nothing else discreet about this ultimate F150. In both styling and decoration, the Raptor is in your face everywhere you look. Take that massive grill, for example, with hyper extended F-O-R-D letters that each measure 9 inches in width. The dark grey tailgate “Applique” ($495) features an even wider FORD typeface with each

letter measuring 14 inches. In the unlikely event that the model name escapes you, Ford has wrapped the Raptor with giant decals above each rear fender (“Exterior Graphics Package” - $1,075) identifying this Ruby Red Metallic Tinted ($395) truck as a Raptor. You will find further reminders from the matte black “Hood Graphics Package” ($900), the name stitched to both front seat headrests, and the basrelief notation inscribed in the black crackle finish running boards. While the Raptor makes a very bold visual statement, its performance proclamation is even louder than its looks. Start with the strident tone issuing from outlandishly large flat black dump pipes exiting just below the tailgate. When you toe into the twin turbocharged all-aluminum V6, the twin exhausts issue a startling blat that will titillate your eardrums. That’s because this truck motor, which is closely related to the engine in Ford’s class-winning Le Mans GT, makes a prodigious 450hp @ 5000rpm and an even more plentiful 510 lb.-ft. of torque at

just 3500rpm. In other words, the Raptor is without question the fastest pickup truck you can buy today, with 0-60mph capability of 5.2 seconds. If you floor the accelerator and run this Ford through the quarter mile, it will record a 13.9 second run @ 98mph. Bear in mind that this stellar straightline performance comes from a truck weighing very close to 3 tons. But Ford did not construct the Raptor to be drag raced. Rather, it has been designed to provide the ultimate ride off-road. In fact, among the multiple available settings for ride preference, Ford has included one called “Baja.” This choice automatically locks in high range 4-wheel drive, while simultaneously optimizing all steering, suspension and engine parameters for ultrahigh-performance. We didn’t have a chance to get down to Baja during our week with the Raptor, so we’ll have to take Ford’s word for its off-road prowess. However, the following engineering clearances should give veteran Rubicon types a clear idea of the Raptor’s elite design brief. Minimum

running clearance stands at 11.45 inches. Water fording depth is 32 inches. Approach angle is 30.2 degrees, departure angle 23.1 degrees. Breakover angle on the SuperCrew is 10.9 degrees, or 11.45 degrees for the smaller SuperCab model. These impressive figures will reveal to any serious offroader that the Raptor really is designed to complete the romp from Ensenada to La Paz through Baja with flying colors. Although we never found a suitable unpaved spot to exercise the Raptor, we can testify that this truck makes a delicious everyday companion. Its cabin is so comfortable you never want to climb down from your throne. The front seats are wide and spacious, although they lack sufficient side support. The instrumentation is beyond reproach, with the most important gauges always displayed for water and oil temp, fuel level, and miles to empty. A series of computer command buttons on the steering wheel allow you to supplement that base information with a dozen screens of additional material encompassing everything from off-road lean angle to

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engine oil condition and tire pressure. But the best part of the Raptor’s cab is the 360 degrees of vision it affords to keep you ahead of the traffic game. The fact that our test truck was also equipped with the optional ($1,295) Twin Panel Moonroof made our vast panorama enjoyment that much better. 2017 Ford F-150 Supercrew 4x4 Raptor Engine: 3.5 liter all aluminum V6 with DOHC, 24 vales and twin turbochargers H o r s e p o w e r : 450hp@5000rpm To r q u e : 510 l b. ft.@3500rpm Fuel Consumption: 15MPG City/18MPG Highway Price As Tested: $69,995 Hypes: Massive Suspension and Frame Gripes: It Left After One Week Star Rating: 10 Stars out of 10

Bond Measure on June 2018 Ballot Invests in Natural Infrastructure Years of neglect and After 5 years of extensive work, the East Bay Regional competing priorities have Park District and its partner left California’s once “Best agencies have successfully in Nation” system of state helped place a bond measure parks and open spaces in on the state ballot to address disrepair with little funding for statewide park needs. In infrastructure improvements andPleasant maintenance. total, the 315 measure would Cortsen Road in HillRepair and needs are estimated p r o v i d e $ 4 . 1• bHeritage i l l i o n classes t o upgrade for children at $25 billion. address parks, •open space, School field trips Additionally, the East • Sustainable classes water resources, and floodgardening • Displays of items from the Bay Regional Park District protection needs. Pleasant Hill Historical Society • Meetings and events

Rodgers Ranch is a Pleasant Hill Recreation and Park District property and Pleasant Hill’s only historic site. We are a nonprofit, tax-exempt 501c3 organization

315 Cortsen Road in Pleasant Hill

• Heritage classes forfor childrenSale Barn Wood • School field trips

Call Chris at (925) 890-4482 • Sustainable gardening classes • Displays of items from the Pleasant Hill Historical Society • Meetings and events

Rodgers Ranch is a Pleasant Hill Recreation and Park District property and Pleasant Hill’s only historic site. We are a nonprofit, tax-exempt 501c3 organization

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

operates three local state parks – Crown Memorial State Beach in Alameda, McLaughlin Eastshore State Park running along the shoreline through Oakland, Emeryville, Berkeley, Albany, and Richmond, and Del Valle Regional Park in Livermore – with no funding f ro m t h e S t a t e. C row n Memorial State Beach and Del Valle Regional Park are over 60 years old with aging and deteriorating infrastructure. And, McLaughlin Eastshore State Park, which covers over 9 miles along the San Francisco Bay, is prone to flooding and under threat of sea level rise. “Getting the measure on the ballot was a long, multiyear effort,” said East Bay Regional Park District General Manager Robert Doyle. “The Park District is pleased that voters in California will have the opportunity to invest in our natural infrastructure with park improvements and open space preservation.” The Park-Water-Flood Protection Bond includes $2.83 billion for parks and natural resources, $720 million for water resources, and $550

million for flood protection. The measure will be on the June 2018 ballot. The Park District thanks Governor Jerry Brown for his leadership in signing (SB 5 (de León) and placing a statewide park bond on the ballot for voters consideration. The Park District would also like to thank State Senate Pro Tempore Kev i n d e L e ó n , S p e a ke r Anthony Rendon, Assembly M e m b e r E d u a rd o G a rc i a and the entire Park District state legislative delegation including, Senators Glazer, Skinner, andWieckowski, and Assemblymembers Baker, Bonta, Chu, Frazier, Grayson, Quirk, and Thurmond. “If approved, the bond would provide significant funding for project grants to local agencies,” said Doyle. “The Park District would be positioned well to receive funds given its ability to provide matching funds from its local, voter-approved revenue measures, Measure WW and Measure CC,” “The bond also includes $200 million in grants that would be distributed on a per capita

basis throughout California so that all communities benefit,” added Doyle. Measure WW and Measure CC, which were passed by local voters, have provided matching funds that have allowed the Park District to leverage external state and federal funds. A recent study showed that for every $1 invested into a project by the District, the Park District has obtained $2 from external sources. The District has a responsibility to ensure that local voters are properly informed about the state bond measure. Over the next year, the Park District will be providing factual information to residents about the statewide bond and the potential local benefits. 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.

valleysentinel.com

January 2018

Be Prepared for Urban Wildfires By Candace Andersen. Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors

Wildfires have swept across both northern and southern California in the last few weeks burning hundreds of thousands of acres, leaving neighborhoods and families with little else than what they are able to pack in their cars and leave with on a moment’s notice. There are many things we can do to prepare for a wildfire. With the devastation in Santa Rosa and Southern California so fresh in our minds, it is imperative that we have an evacuation plan, among other things, ready in case a wildfire strikes our community. The National Fire Protection Association, t h e Fe d e r a l E m e r g e n c y Management Agency (FEMA), and the American Red Cross all have checklists that families can use to help prepare for a natural disaster such as a wildfire. Consider creating a list of the important items and documents you would take with you if you had less than 10 minutes to evacuate. Create another list with items you would gather if you have more time to leave your home. Have 72-hour emergency kits prepared for each family member that you can quickly grab and take with you should you need to evacuate. First and most important, stay informed. If the danger is imminent, local authorities may issue an evacuation notice to alert residents that a fire is nearby and that it is necessary to immediately leave the area. Be sure to register your cell phone for the Community Warning System (CWS). Contra Costa County continuously improves its ability to notify all residents and businesses of any possible emergency. The CWS allows the Office of the Sheriff to alert Contra Costa County residents and businesses about incidents that pose an imminent threat to human life or health. The CWS uses sirens, radio and TV broadcasts, targeted telephone call-outs, and alerts to cellular telephones. Everyone who lives or works in Contra Costa County is invited to register their cell phone number and the ZIP code areas for which they’d like to receive these alerts. Simply go to

cws.cccounty.us and enter your cell phone number and zip code selections. Then check to accept the Terms of Service and click “Submit.” To change or cancel a cell phone registration, simply submit new selections using the same form. Most cities and towns also use Nixle to notify the public in an emergency. Simply text any zip code to 888777 and receive real-time alerts and advisories directly from your local police department and other local agencies. There is no charge for registering, but standard text messaging rates associated with your mobile phone service will apply. Station 1610 AM exists to provide residents and motorists in the San Ramon Valley with timely and accurate information about incidents and emergency operations, and is used locally for broadcast of real-time emergency information. Evacuation orders vary by state and by community and can range from “voluntary leave” to “mandatory.” When authorities issue a mandatory evacuation notice, leave the area immediately. It’s for your own safety. Know your evacuation routes, plan your transportation, and identify a safe place to stay. Be sure to have a Family Communication Plan in place that designates an out-ofarea friend or relative as the point of contact. They then are your single source of communication among family members in case of separation. It sometimes is easier to call or message one person and let them know of your situation and have them contact others than to try and call everyone yourself when phone, cell, and internet systems might be overloaded or limited during a natural disaster. It’s also very important to review your homeowners or renter’s insurance policy and to prepare or update a list of the contents of your home by either taking photos or videotaping each room in the house. If your home or business sustains significant damage, you will need access to that insurance and rental or mortgage agreements to file claims or to request assistance from government programs. You’ll be happy to have had these pictures and/or videos although it might not feel like it at the time. Often times, homeowners have the ability to take steps to reduce the sources of fuel where fire can start around

their homes. The National Fire Protection Association and FEMA recommend a defensible space, also known as a firescape, of up to 200 feet from your home or structure. Your goal now, before a fire happens, is to make your home or business and the surrounding area more resistant to catching fire and burning. This means reducing the amount of material that can burn easily in and around your home or business by clearing away unnecessary debris and/ or other flammable materials. Within this ‘safe’ zone, which should be a minimum of 30 feet, you do not have to remove all plants. You should, however, remove any trees and branches growing within 10 feet of your home, remove any tree that drops debris on the roof or in the gutters, and thin any remaining trees. Shrubs should be placed well away from your home and pruned on a regular basis. All of the plants in this defensible space should be fire resistant. Check rain gutters, eaves, and roofs to clear any stray leaves and needles as these can be most flammable. If you have wood piles or other such materials near your home, make sure they are a safe distance away. If you are caught in your home during a fire, FEMA notes that heat and smoke from fires can often be more dangerous than the flames themselves. Inhaling the super-hot air can damage your lungs severely. Fire also produces poisonous gas that can make you feel disoriented and sometimes drowsy. Instead of being awakened by a fire, you may actually fall into a deeper sleep. Asphyxiation is the leading cause of fire deaths, exceeding burns by three-to-one ratio. It’s critical to regularly check the batteries in your smoke detectors. With your family and/or housemates, it is also wise to practice an escape plan from every room in the house. As with any emergency it is always important to remember to stay calm and focused. Being prepared, and having your plan that has been internalized and practiced with your family will automatically lower stress and help you better respond in an emergency situation. For more information, visit San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District’s website at www.firedepartment.org, or the FEMA website at www. usfa.fema.gov/citizens/home_ fire_prev.

The Valley SenTinel My office is here to serve the residents of Contra Costa County District 2, which includes San Ramon, Danville, Alamo, Walnut Creek, Saranap, Parkmead, Lafayette, Moraga, Canyon and Orinda. Please SKATEBOARD from page 11

using temporary equipment on the asphalt. Kids from 4 to 13 brought their boards (2/3) and Scooters (1/3), and 30% of the end of the week camp picture were Danville girls. Girls have been featured in some of the holiday ads (Gap and Target) and a new organization, Skate Like a Girl, is spreading to California from Seattle. As Aaron Spohn noted, the younger boys and girls are the moat rapid growing areas in the sport— changing the perception and culture. Training kids young brings kids who reflect the respectful values of our community. Indeed, at the Parks Commission Meeting to consider skatepark sites, the youth, young adults, and parents who had come to speak in favor of the park picked up their chairs and put them away. I had never seen that in 15 years on the council! Which Wheels? A new state law expanded the usage of these parks (for liability issues)

page 15

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. to essentially all non-motorized vehicles. Earlier in December, o u r h a rd - wo r k i n g p a r k s commission considered all the advantages and challenges of various locations and favored an inclusive policy built upon this new law. These parks are recreational oases for all users that the council allows— meeting the recreational needs for our young students below driving age, encouraging yo u t h f o r t h e O l y m p i c s (Skateboarding and BMX competitions will be unveiled in the Olympics in Japan), and providing transportation for all non-drivers. The space to make competition safe is the first priority, but we will be considering accommodations for all types of wheels: skateboards, scooters, skates, wheelchairs, and/or bikes. So far, skaters, parents, and downtown businesses agree that skaters are much better served in a skatepark—fun, competition, and exercise! For more information, contact Karen Stepper, Town of Danville Councilmember at 925-998-8865.

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!

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