The Valley Sentinel_June 2017 by Sentinel Newspapers

Alamo • Danville • Blackhawk • Diablo • San Ramon

VALLEY

THE

SENTINEL always for the community VOl 22, nO 6

Find out what’s new in the Valley at

www.valleysentinel.com

Arts • Activities • Auto • Business • Gardening • Seniors and more...

June 2017

www.valleysentinel.com

SPOTLIGHT

Outstanding Female Athlete of the Year Honored by Rotary Club of Danville

Athletes nominated from all four SRVUSD high schools The Rotary Club of Danville has named San Ramon Valley High School water polo standout, Lexi Liebowitz, as outstanding female athlete of the year 2016-2017. See Athlete

ECRWSS

Postmaster: Dated Material

PRESORTED STANDARD US POSTAGE PAID DANVILLE, CA PERMIT NO. 70

page 11

Sentinel Newspapers, Inc. 542 San Ramon Valley Blvd., Ste A P.O. Box 1309 Danville, CA 94526 925-820-6047

Once again, The Viet Nam Veterans of Diablo Valley have outdone themselves with their heartfelt remembrance program in Oak Hill Park for Memorial Day. This year is the 50th anniversary of the Viet Nam War, and members presented fellow Viet Nam Veterans with commemorative pins honoring their service. These Memorial Day events are a moving tribute to those who paid the ultimate price.

Rrrrribit...a popular song in Hollywood, regardless of location by James Hale

The Pacific Tree Frog (Pseudacris regilla), also known as the Pacific Chorus Frog, ranges from the tip of Baja California, along the west coast through California, Oregon, Washington, and British Columbia to extreme southern Alaska. Their range extends eastward into Nevada, Idaho, and Montana. This small frog with a big voice frequents a variety of habitats from sea level to high into the mountains above 11,600 feet. The Pacific Tree Frog may be found in grasslands, woodlands, lakes, ponds, seasonally ponded wetlands, marshes, reservoirs, slow streams, and even roadside ditches, chaparral, and desert oases. They are usually found among low plant growth near water. Since 1986, the taxonomy of the Pacific Tree Frog has undergone a very confusing and controversial history. Grand choruses

of the Pacific Tree Frog may be heard throughout Contra Costa County. Many populations thrive in backyard ponds. The Pacific Tree Frog grows to over two inches from the snout to the urostyle at the tail end. Males are usually smaller, and have a dark gray patch on their throats, the round vocal sac, which stretches out when the males call the females at their breeding sites. A black or dark brown eye stripe that stretches from the nose, across the eye, and back to the shoulder is diagnostic. They may be a variety of different colors, ranging from green, tan, reddish, gray, brown, and cream, to black, with a pale or white belly. A rare recessive “blue morph” is known. Pacific Tree Frogs are able to change

color seasonally to better match their environment. They may change from light color phases to dark phases in a few minutes. Small bumps cover the skin, which may have dark and spotty markings on the back and sides. Long, slender and muscular legs are capable of propelling this little frog great distances for its size. Their toes are long, slightly webbed, and ending in round, sticky pads or discs used for climbing and sticking to surfaces. The breeding season for the Pacific Tree Frog varies according to the local geographical conditions, however, generally extends from early winter to spring. It begins when the males migrate to the breeding pools and call to lure the females to the water to mate. The Pacific

This month’s Special Sections:

Education page 7

Fitness & Beauty page 8

Tree Frog is the most commonly heard frog on the Pacific Coast with its two-parted kreck-ek or ribbit. Hollywood movie producers frequently use its voice for nocturnal background sounds, regardless of location. I’ve heard Pacific Tree Frogs erroneously calling in Africa, Europe, Asia, and other areas, See FROGS page 15

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

page 2

The Valley Sentinel

I C a n D o T h a t T h e a t re p re s e n t s L i t t l e S h o p o f Horrors Now - June 4 Seymour Krelborn is a meek and dejected assistant at a floral shop who happens upon a strange plant, which he affectionately names “Audrey II” after his crush at the shop. Little does he know that this strange and unusual plant will develop a soulful R&B voice, a potty mouth, and an unquenchable thirst for HUMAN BLOOD! This delectable sci-fi horror musical with an electrifying 1960s pop/rock score by Alan Menken and Howard Ashman features the talented kids of Danville’s I Can Do That Theatre Company. $15 - $20. Village Theater, 233 Front Street, Danville. www. villagetheatreshows.com or 925-314-3400.

exhibit features stories about San Ramon’s naming, its founders and first village, a century of agriculture, the San Ramon Fire Department, Bishop Ranch history, and the new city, which incorporated in 1983. The exhibit will provide hands-on opportunities for young and older visitors alike including a history hunt, a saddle for children to try out, and several videos. Every Saturday from 10 to 11am a speaker will tell stories about the city’s transformation from a rural community to modern San Ramon. Beginning a “First Friday” opening tradition, the museum will be open 6 - 8pm on Friday, June 2, for free tours and refreshments. Museum of the San Ramon Valley, 205 Railroad Ave., Danville. Information: www. museumsrv.org or 935-8373750.

Celebrate San Ramon Rancho - Village - City exhibit Now - June 11 Tues-Fri 1-4pm, Sat 10am1pm, Sun 12-3pm. This new

Center REPertory presents: Altar Boyz Now - July 1 8pm. Full of sharp parody, sinfully spectacular dancing, and irreverent humor, this spoof about a heavenly guy-group is adored by audiences and critics alike. $37 - $42. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr. Walnut Creek. Information and tickets call 925-943-SHOW (7469) or visit www.lesherartscenter.org.

June 2017

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast June 5 - 8 The classic story of Belle, a young woman in a provincial town, and the Beast, who is really a young prince trapped under the spell of an enchantress. If the Beast can learn to love and be loved, the curse will end and he will be transformed to his former self. But time is running out. If the Beast does not learn his lesson soon, he and his household will be doomed for all eternity. Based on the original Broadway p ro d u c t i o n t h a t ra n f o r over thirteen years and was nominated for nine Tony Awards, and the Academy Aw a r d - w i n n i n g m o t i o n picture, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast JR. is a fantastic adaptation of the story of transformation and tolerance. $12. Village Theater, 233 Front Street, Danville. www. villagetheatreshows.com or 925-314-3400.

Sweetie Face

Children’s Apparel in Blackhawk Plaza 4th of July casual Shorts Set Garden parties Special Occasions Sun Dresses Swimsuits Shower the newest bundle of joy with everything they need including Christening Outfits

valleysentinel.com Fifteen June 10 3pm. The Danville Community Band presents its final formal performance o f i t s 1 5 t h A n n i ve rs a r y Season. They will share a broad selection of tunes. The band will also award its annual Student Instrument Scholarship to a deserving student. $8 - $17. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. lesherartscenter.showare.com or call (925) 943-7469.

Funkmode presents FunkO-Vision Jun 10 - 11 10 years ago, Funkmode put on its first stage show. That show was called ‘FUNKO-VISION’ and the idea was that it would be like watching TV if it were on a stage. To commemorate our tenth year of making shows, we decided to expand on that theme to include all of the different ways we consume media B E YO N D t h e t e l ev i s i o n . We’re taking on internet celebrities, streaming video, reality shows and much more. So grab your media device because this show is ten years in the making and every bit worth waiting for! $20. Village Theater, 233 Front Street, Danville. www. villagetheatreshows.com or funkmode.com or 925-3143400.

and Clark Trail, by car, in a canoe, and on foot. Free. Oak View Room at the Walnut Creek Public Library, 1644 North Broadway, Walnut Creek. RSVPs are appreciated and can be made online at www.wclibrary.org/live or by phone at 925.935.5395.

The Jazz Room: Acoustic Night in the Art Gallery June 15 7:30pm. The Jazz Room presents Acoustic Night in the intimate art gallery at Village Theatre! Colombian Vocalist, Susana Pineda, and Bay Area guitarist, Luis Salcedo, will present a fresh approach to contemporary jazz and Latin music, exploring every facet of their instruments while incorporating electronic techniques to create new textures and effects. $15 advance tickets are available on Brown Paper Tickets at http:// w w w. b row n p a p e r t i c ke t s. com/event/2952942. $15 tickets will be sold at the door for cash only. Village Theater, 233 Front Street, Danville. For more information visit www. facebook.com/TheJazzRoom

3431 Blackhawk Circle Danville, CA 94506

925-648-0111 ~ The Best Dressed Kids Are Sweetie Face Kids ~

Live Happy Paper Crafts

Explore your creativity this summer with classes at Live Happy! Scrapbook about those fun summer memories, and make beautiful Father’s Day and Graduation cards. Look for our wedding window in June, then come in and discover how it’s all done with paper!

355 Hartz Ave., Danville, Ca 94526 925 553-7418 livehappypapercrafts.com

Wa l n u t C r e e k F i r s t Wednesdays J u n e 7 a n d eve r y f i rs t We d n e s d a y t h r o u g h October 5:30pm. Walnut Creek F i r s t We d n e s d a y s e v e n t for all ages includes live entertainment, arts & crafts, treats & more! Bike Walnut Creek is sponsoring a free ‘bike valet’ so you can bike to the event and relax with your bike secured by a valet attendant. Event is free, but bring some money for dinner because the Food Truck Mafia food trucks will be there for your dining pleasure. Cypress Street in Downtown Walnut Creek. www.walnutcreekdowntown. com/event/3-walnut-creekfirst-wednesdays

Live! from the Library The Lewis and Clark Expedition: Key Decision Points June 14 7pm. Mark Jordan will examine crucial moments along the epic journey of the uncharted West in his presentation of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. A longtime Walnut Creek resident, Jordan is an experienced a c t o r, t e a c h e r, a n d av i d Lewis and Clark buff. He has traveled most of the Lewis

Dixieland Jazz June 17 1:30-4:30pm. On the 3rd Saturday of every month you can enjoy the music of the Devil Mountain Jazz Band. Bring your own beverages, snacks and a friend or two! There is a large dance floor and lots of free parking. $15. Grange Hall, 743 Diablo Road, Danville. Information: visit www.jazznut.com or call 925625-2707. Opening of the 23rd Annual Sculpture in the Garden June 17 5 - 8pm.Celebrate the unveiling of the Sculpture in the Garden exhibition and mingle with the artists. Enjoying live music by The Retroz

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

valleysentinel.com

Band and food by Roderick’s BBQ food truck. Over 50 artists from the Bay Area and beyond transform the Garden into a unique art exhibit. The sculptures line Garden pathways for a one of a kind visitor experience. Advance ticket purchase required – General admission $25/ person. Food and drinks sold separately. The Ruth Bancroft Garden, 1552 Bancroft Road, Walnut Creek. (Art will be on view at the garden through August 13.) Information: www. ruthbancroftgarden.org Anthony Paule Soul Orchestra featuring Frank Bey June 22 5:30pm. The Frank Bey and Anthony Paule Band, eight pieces of spellbinding, soul-blues genius, has been leaving a wake of awestruck audiences whenever they take the stage. Frank Bey’s hypnotic vocals, and Paule’s lofty guitar playing, keep their band on a shelf all by itself. Free. On the plaza at the Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr. Walnut Creek. Information call 925-943-SHOW (7469) or visit www.lesherartscenter.org. Sweet n Low–an International Show of Cute June 22 – August 27 Opening Reception: June 22 6-8pm Sweet n Low features artwork from over 130 local, national, and international artists who extend the genre of cute from cuddly and precious to creepy and ironic. From kitsch and Margaret Keane’s Big Eyes, to Japanese anime and contemporary Pop Art, we’re unleashing the roly-poly, goofily-gamboling, saccharine-honeyed creatures on this earth and beyond! $5. Inside the Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr. Walnut Creek. More information including full artist list at www.BedfordGallery.org/ SweetnLow or call 925-2951415. Totally Trains-Models And Memorabilia June 24–August 7 Tu e s d a y t h r o u g h S a t u r d a y, 10 a m - 1 p m ; Sunday, 12 - 3pm, closed

June 2017 Mondays. The main layout of the exhibit has two elevations with 4 running trains, scenery, bridges, a trestle, tunnel and a village with a replica of the Museum, the former Southern Pacific Depot. A secondary layout features a number of working accessories. On display are items from three private collections of model trains dating from the early to mid1900s. $3 - $10. The Museum of the San Ramon Valley is located in the restored train depot on the corner of 205 Railroad Avenue at the corner of Prospect Avenue i n d o w n t o w n D a n v i l l e. For more information, call 925-837- 375, or email to srvmuseum@sbcglobal.net, or visit www.musemsrv. org.

Wine & Equine June 24 4-7pm. This fabulous event includes live music by band Downwind Run, a live and silent auction, photos with the SonRise horses, Wente wine, a catered dinner, and live exhibition by the SonRise kids. SonRise serves a broad spectrum of children with special needs. Our mission is to help these children thrive through the benefits of our therapeutic h o rs e m a n s h i p p ro g ra m s. $75. 6496 Crow Canyon Rd., Castro Valley, CA 94552. For more information and/or to purchase a ticket please visit www.sonrisekids.org/ wine-equine or call 925-8387433. Fe s ti va l O p era p re se n t s “Pagliacci” and “The Seven Deadly Sins” June 24 at 8pm and June 25 at 2pm. Festival Opera’s 2017 Season is an exciting double bill of opera featuring Ruggero Leoncavallo’s “Pagliacci” -- the classic tale of passion and murder -- and Kurt Weill & Bertolt Brecht’s dance

opera, “The Seven Deadly Sins.”Starring Alex Boyer, Rebecca Garcia, Hadleigh Adams, Lauren Bohn, and a stellar cast and chorus. $62 - $66. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr. Walnut Creek. Information and tickets call 925-943SHOW (7469) or visit www. lesherartscenter.org. Dirty Cello June 29 5:30pm. From China to Italy, and all over the U.S., Dirty Cello brings the world a high energy and unique spin on blues and bluegrass. Led by vivacious cross-over cellist, Rebecca Roudman, Dirty Cello is cello like you’ve never heard before. From down home blues with a wailing cello to virtuosic stompin’ bluegrass, Dirty Cello is a band that gets your heart thumping and your toes tapping! Free. On the plaza at the Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr. Walnut Creek. Information call 925-943SHOW (7469) or visit www. lesherartscenter.org.

The Valley Sentinel The HillBenders July 6 5:30pm. The Who’s classic rock opera “Tommy, ”45 years after its original release, has now been fully realized as a full length bluegrass tribute featuring Springfield, Missouri’s The HillBenders. Conceived and produced by SXSW co-founder and longtime musician/producer Louis Jay Meyers, this Bluegrass Opry brings a new perspective to Tommy while paying total respect to its creators. Free. On the plaza at the Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 C i v i c D r. Wa l n u t C re e k . Information call 925-943SHOW (7469) or visit www. lesherartscenter.org. P r e s c h o o l Pe r f o r m a n c e Series - Comedy Illusionist Brian Scott July 7 10am. Presented in 1 hour with no intermission. Making little ones laugh, dance, and sing along since 2009, the Town of Danville is pleased to continue to p re s e n t f u n a n d u n i q u e top-level entertainers for preschool-aged children. Village Theater, 233 Front St., Danville. Information: www.villagetheatreshows. com or (925) 314-3400.

page 3

Winnie the Pooh KIDS July 7 - 8 5 p m . Ru n n i n g T i m e : approx. 30 minutes, with no intermission. This is a delightful show based on the beloved characters of A.A. Milne and the 2011 Disney animated feature film. Presented by the Lamorinda Theater Academy Youth Performers. $14. Del Valle Theatre, 1963 Tice Valley Blvd., Walnut Creek. Information call 925-943SHOW (7469) or visit www. lesherartscenter.org. A Chorus Line School Edition July 7 at 7pm, July 8 at 2pm. A stunning concept musical capturing the spirit and tension of a Broadway chorus audition. Exploring the inner lives and poignant ambitions of professional Broadway gypsies, the show features one powerhouse n u m b e r a f t e r a n o t h e r. Presented by the Lamorinda T h e a t e r Ac a d e my Yo u t h Performers. $14. Del Valle Theatre, 1963 Tice Valley B l v d . , Wa l n u t C r e e k . Information call 925-943SHOW (7469) or visit www. lesherartscenter.org.

page 4

The Valley Sentinel

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

JRW CONSTRUCTION, INC. 381 Hartz Ave., Danville, Suite B phone 925.831.1615 fax 925.831.1643 lic. 694292

CUSTOM HOMES ADDITIONS REMODELS BATHROOM AND KITCHEN REMODELS TENANT IMPROVEMENTS COMMERCIAL RESIDENTIAL

Do you know what to do about back pain?

WE DO.

The Back Doctors are a network of CHIROPRACTORS, MEDICAL DOCTORS and other health care professionals all with one common goal, the effective treatment of your pain.

Don’t Ignore These warning signs of spinal misalignment • Recurring Headaches • Low Back and Leg Pain • Neck, Shoulder and Arm Pain • Pain Between Shoulders

• Muscle Spasms • Difficulty Sleeping • Numbness in Limbs • Dizziness/Ringing in Ears

OPEN 6 DAYS A WEEK FOR YOUR CONVENIENCE

Saturday and evening appointments available • Most insurance accepted • Workers compensation welcome

The Back Doctors A CHIROPRACTIC/MEDICAL NETWORK

Phillip Runco, D.C.

Call for appointment now! 685-0335

June 2017

valleysentinel.com Sponsored Content

Testicular Cancer Awareness Dr. Shoba Kankipati

Testicular cancer is cancer that develops in the testicles, a part of the male reproductive system. Not all lumps on the testicles are tumors, and not all tumors are malignant (cancerous). There are many other conditions, of the testis, which may be painful but are non-cancerous. A man’s risk of testicular cancer is roughly 1 in 200 (0.5%). It is the most common cancer in males aged 20–39 years, the period when it is most common to start, and is rarely seen before the age of 15 years. The risk of testicular cancer in white men is approximately 4-5 times the risk in black men, and more than three times that of Asian American men. The risk of testicular cancer in Latinos and American Indians is between that of white and Asian men. The cause of these differences is unknown. Testicular cancer has the highest prevalence in the U.S. and Europe, and is uncommon in Asia and Africa. Worldwide incidence has doubled since the 1960s, with the highest rates of prevalence in Scandinavia, Germany, and New Zealand. Higher rates of testicular cancer in Western nations have been linked to use of cannabis. A study conducted by the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center and funded

by the National Institutes of Health, published in the journal Cancer March 15, 2009, linked long term use of cannabis to an increased risk for testicular cancer with the scientists concluding that cannabis is harmful to the human endocrine and reproductive system. In September 2012, a study published in the journal Cancer became the third to link marijuana use to the development of testicular cancer. A major risk factor for the development of testicular cancer is cryptorchidism (undescended testicles). It is generally believed that the presence of a tumor contributes to cryptorchidism; when cryptorchidism occurs in conjunction with a tumor then the tumor tends to be large. Other risk factors include inguinal hernias, Klinefelter s y n d r o m e, a n d m u m p s orchitis. One of the first signs of testicular cancer is often a lump or swelling in the testes. Symptoms may include one or more of the following: − A lump in one testis which may or may not be painful − Sharp pain or a dull ache in the lower abdomen or scrotum − A f e e l i n g o f t e n described as “heaviness” in the scrotum T h e U . S . P reve n t i ve Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends against routine screening for testicular cancer

in asymptomatic adolescent and adults including routine testicular self-exams However, the American Cancer Society suggests that some men should examine their testicles monthly, especially if they have a family history of cancer, and the American Urological Association recommends monthly testicular self-examinations for all young men. Rarely testicular cancer spreads to the lymphnodes, lungs or brain. The three basic types of treatment are surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Surgery is performed by urologists; radiation therapy is administered by radiation oncologists; and chemotherapy i s t h e wo r k o f m e d i c a l oncologists. Testicular cancer has one of the highest cure rates of all cancers. In most patients with testicular cancer, the disease is cured readily with minimal long-term morbidity. While treatment success depends on the stage, the average survival rate after five years is around 95%, and stage 1 cancer cases (if monitored properly) have essentially a 100% survival rate, which is why prompt action, when testicular cancer is a possibility, is extremely important. Dr. Kankipati is a board certified Medical Oncologist and Hematologist with Epic Care, a group of experts in the diagnosis and comprehensive treatment of cancer and blood disorders. www.epic-care.com

The Contra Costa Transportation Authority’s Countywide Transportation PlanOnline Open House is Now Live www. blueherongraphics.com

Share Your Thoughts through an Online Open House for the Countywide Transportation Plans! weigh in on the 2017 Plan The Countywide Transportation Plan (CTP) provides the overall direction for achieving and maintaining a balanced and functional transportation system within Contra Costa while strengthening links between land use decisions and transportation. The CTP outlines the Contra Costa Transportation Authority’s (CCTA) vision for delivering a comprehensive transportation system that enhances mobility and accessibility while promoting a healthy environment and a strong economy. The 2017 Countywide Transportation Plan will play

an important role in shaping our transportation policy and investment decisions for next two decades. Currently about $3.7 billion in project funding has been identified, which is not enough to meet Countywide transportation n e e d s ove r t h e n ex t 20 years. The Plan outlines the strategies that are essential for a smooth transition from vision to reality. So far more than 5,000 people from all over the County have participated in a range of activities to inform the Plan. We’re now holding an additional phase of engagement to enable the Contra Costa community to

update. We encourage you to visit the Online Open House at 2017CTPupdate.net today to learn more about the CTP, the process to date, and upcoming opportunities to weigh in on the 2017 CTP update. We also invite you to submit your feedback at the convenient online portal or send us comments via email at2017CTP@ccta.net. We will receive comments through July 28, 2017. Let’s work together on a path toward an even better transportation future for Contra Costa County. Please visit 2017CTPupdate. net today!

valleysentinel.com

June 2017

The Valley SenTinel

page 5

Sponsored Content

Creative Ways to Give By Robert Cucchiaro 1. We are lucky* to live in an area with such incredible public schools (*note – my definition of luck is “the harder I work, the more luck I have.) 2. O u r s c h o o l s a r e underfunded by the state, and this means that if we value things like art, music, even advanced science & robotics, not to mention teacher’s aides, then we have to contribute to the San Ramon Valley Education Foundation & Endowment Fund. Of course some folks will read this and think “but I don’t have kids or my kids have

Last month my wife and I had the chance to sponsor and attend the San Ramon Valley Education Foundation’s annual gala at Diablo Country Club. The attendees included all of our local Principals, many of our outstanding teachers, and a large number of philanthropic members o f t h e c o m m u n i t y. T h e organizers did an excellent job of reminding all of us of two very important things:

PORTEOUS PORTEOUS PORTEOUS PORTEOUS FAMILY DENTISTRY FAMILY DENTISTRY FAMILY DENTISTRY FAMILY DENTISTRY Larry Porteous D.D.S. Larry Porteous D.D.S.++Linda LindaPorteous PorteousR.D.H. R.D.H.

Larry Porteous, Linda R.D.H. Porteous, R.D.H. Larry Porteous D.D.S. +D.D.S. Linda + Porteous

“Let Our Family Be Family Dentist” OurBe Family BeYour Your Family Dentist” Our Family Be Your Family Dentist” “Let“Let Our“Let Family Your Family Dentist”

50% OFF

WeWeare arecelebrating celebrating2929years years

We are 29 in years 50% OFF We arecelebrating celebrating 30 yearsArea. in in practice 50% OFF Teeth Whitening practice inthe theBay Bay Area. 50% OFF in practiceininin the Bay Teeth Whitening practice the BayArea. Area. Our Teeth Whitening Teeth Whitening Our practice is dedicated for new patients (reg $450) Our practice is dedicated for new patients (reg $450) Our practice is dedicated to treating for new patients for (regnew $450) patients (reg $450) practice istodedicated totreating treatingand andpreventing preventing to treating and preventing and preventing dental indiseases in a (925) 736-9000 dental diseases a friendly, dental (925) 736-9000 dental diseases in a diseases friendly, in a friendly, 925-736-9000 (925) friendly, relaxed atmosphere. is 736-9000 relaxed ItItisisIt our relaxedatmosphere. our relaxed atmosphere. Itatmosphere. is our 3840 Blackhawk Road our philosophy to give each person philosophy totogive person 3840Blackhawk Blackhawk Road 3840 Road 3840 Road giveeach each personBlackhawk philosophy tophilosophy give each person Suite 110 the same respect, care and concern the same respect, care and Suite 110 the same respect, care respect, and the same care and Suite 110 Suite 110 concern thatwant we would wantasto Danville Danville that wethat would want Danville concern we would Danville concern thatto wetoreceive would want to Across(Across Blackhawkfrom Rd. as a patient. patients. Across BlackhawkAcross Rd. Blackhawk receive as areceive patient. Rd. receive as a patient. Independently Rated Highest in Quality

fromDraeger’s Draeger’s Market NINTH from Draeger’s Market Market) from Draeger’s CONSECUTIVEMarket YEAR

Independently Rated Highest in Quality Independently Rated Highest in Quality

IfIf you have an have aching tooth,tooth, want Ifanyou an aching you have tooth, If aching you have an aching tooth, to maintain good dental wantyour toyour maintain your good want to maintain good want to maintain your good health, are interested in interested improving dental are dental health, are health, interested dental health, are interested your smile or just have questions in improving your smile or justor in improving in your smile or just improving your smile or just have or concerns, concerns, please call our office. We have questions orquestions concerns, have questions or concerns, ourlook office. We look pleaseforward call please our office. We look tocall meeting you. please call our office. We look

NINTH CONSECUTIVE YEAR NINTH CONSECUTIVE YEAR

forward to meeting forward you. to meeting you.

forward to meeting you.

Providing Full Service Dentistry the Entire Providing Full Service Dentistry For The for Entire Family Providing Full Service Dentistry For The EntireFamily Family

Providing Full Service Dentistry For The Entire Family

WWW.pOrteOusFAMILYDeNtIstrY.coM www.PorteousFamilyDentistry.com WWW.pOrteOusFAMILYDeNtIstrY.coM

WWW.pOrteOusFAMILYDeNtIstrY.coM

already graduated and are grown now.” Point taken, but the reality is, good schools mean higher property values—and this impacts all of us. So now that I have you convinced that you should at least consider donating to this worthwhile cause, let me give you 3 easy and tax efficient ways to make those charitable gifts: 1. RMD Direct Strategy - If you are over the age of 70.5 and you are the owner of a retirement plan (IRA, 401K, 403b) you are required to withdraw a certain % of the account each year. This is called a required minimum distribution, or an RMD. When you withdraw this money it shows up on your tax return as ordinary income, and you pay tax on this money at both the federal and state level. However what many people do not know is that they can have all or part of their RMD sent directly from their IRA to their favorite charity or charities. The benefit of doing this is that the money does not show up on your tax return as income, and this is much better for you tax wise than taking the money from your IRA, paying tax on it, and then turning around and sending it to your favorite charity. 2. Donor Advised Funds (DAF) – Let’s say you make gifts to charity each year and

SENTINELS OF FREEDOM Scholarship Foundation

Housing • Education • Employment • Mentoring • Ongoing Support

Sentinels of Freedom provides the resources and support needed for severely wounded veterans to live active, engaged, and successful lives as they recover from the physical, emotional, and psychological impact of their injuries, learn to live with their disabilities, and work their way back to a life of complete self-sufficiency. To learn more about our organization please visit us at: www.sentinelsoffreedom.org www.facebook.com/sentinelsoffreedom (925) 380-6342 info@sentinelsoffreedom.org

valleysentinel.com take the deduction on your Schedule A under itemized deductions. A DAF allows you to front load these deductions into a single year, and then dole the gifts out to charity over multiple years. The reason this matters is because if you are having a big income year (large bonus, sale of a business, retirement, etc.) the charitable deduction is worth more to you now than it will be in future years and a DAF allows you to take advantage of that. 3. Charitable Remainder Trust (CRT) – With a CRT, the concept is simple – you set up an irrevocable trust and gift an asset to that trust. This asset is generally something that has grown in value since you bought it (a stock or a building for example). If you were to sell that asset you would face a large tax bill. Charities don’t pay taxes so instead,

you donate the asset to the CRT and let them sell it. They agree to then make payments to you for the rest of your life and in exchange, whatever is left when you die goes to your favorite charity or charities. All 3 of these strategies could save you thousands of dollars in taxes! And even with the best Tax Advisor in the world, if you aren’t taking advantage of these strategies you could be missing out. Whether you are already retired or 10 years away, our team includes two CFPs, a CFA and an MBA. We are c o n ve n i e n t l y l o c a t e d i n Danville and have over 30 years of experience helping folks just like you. Call us to make a complimentary appointment at 925-927-1900 or visit o u r w e b s i t e a t w w w. summitwealthandretirement. com

A Veteran’s New Path

Zachary McDonald does not lack determination. The now retired US Army sergeant enlisted in the military immediately following high school and deployed to Iraq in 2005 and to Afghanistan in 2007. Then, while in Afghanistan in March of 2008, Zachary’s life was changed when he was severely injured by a suicide car bomb. Having suffered a traumatic brain injury (TBI), a fractured skull, and numerous other injuries, Zachary spent the next year in rehabilitation, relearning to walk and perform other physical movements. As his rehabilitation progressed, Zachary began work at the Pentagon and was later selected for an assignment with the Army Operations Group, an intelligence unit. Still, he felt unsure about what his next step should be. “I was at a loss as to what I would do with my life,” he says. “The work that had given my life a sense of mission was gone.” After his experiences in the military and the intelligence c o m m u n i t y, t h e i d e a o f returning to school was at first not something that Zachary

looked forward to. However, he was determined not to let his injuries get the best of him, and with the help of local nonprofit Sentinels of Freedom (SOF), the task no longer seemed as dreadful. “Fortunately, I was accepted into the Sentinels of Freedom scholarship program… [it] made a tremendous impact on my life.” With a rediscovered sense of mission, Zachary not only completed a bachelor’s degree in political science from Yale University but also went on to study security studies at the Walsh School of Foreign Service at Georgetown University. He graduated with a master’s in May 2017 and is currently interviewing for positions in defense and foreign policy. Zachary attributes much of his accomplishments to the help and guidance he received from Sentinels of Freedom, whose focus is on assisting severely wounded veterans find long-term success on their new post-military path. “What I have learned through the people I’ve met through SOF…will serve me for the rest of my life,” he says. “I cannot imagine a more suitable veterans program for an ambitious and hard charging guy like myself.” With their transition program that is tailored to the individual and their specific aspirations, Sentinels of Freedom has helped nearly 300 severely wounded and injured veterans like Zachary in making their higher education and career goals a reality. To learn more inspiring stories of veterans like Zachary, visit www.sentinelsoffreedom. org.

Education valleysentinel.com

June 2017

The Valley SenTinel

page 7

How to Make the Most, Academically, of Your Child’s Summer Break Does Your Child Forget Everything He Learned in School, Once Break Arrives? By Karen Lightfoot, Center Director, Sylvan Learning of San Ramon

Within 24 to 48 hours after learning new concepts, students often begin to forget information unless it is reinforced or applied immediately. That’s why, during summer break, even t h e b e s t s t u d e n t s f o rg e t lessons they have learned during the school year. While a break from school is great for recharging

your children’s batteries, if students aren’t using the skills they acquired in the classroom, they could find themselves lagging behind once the school bell rings again. The education experts a t Sy l va n L e a r n i n g , t h e leading provider of tutoring t o s t u d e n t s o f a l l a g e s, grades and skill levels, offer recommendations to inspire

academic discovery when away from the classroom. Writing: To help writing skills, encourage your child to start a diary or write letters to a grandparent or friend. (Yes, people still write letters!) If you are traveling on a vacation, ask your child to keep a travel journal recording where you stayed and what you did. At the end of every day, talk through the activities with your

SRVUSD Celebrates Groundbreaking for SRHS Project Valley for supporting school and learning experiences at A historic groundbreaking ceremony took place on Wednesday, May 17, 2017, at San Ramon Valley High School (SRVHS) in celebration of the beginning of the largest project funded by the $260 million Measure D Facilities bond. The event was attended by SRVUSD Board Members and Superintendent, Mayor of the Town of Danville, Contra Costa Supervisor Candace Andersen, elected officials, students, staff and parents. “Our oldest buildings in our District will soon become our newest” said SRVUSD Superintendent Rick Schmitt. “Even though this ceremony was about breaking ground on a spectacular new classroom building, schools are only as good as their staff, students and parents. We are grateful for the voters of the San Ramon

construction through the passage of Measure D.” The SRVHS classroom building project will provide students and staff with a stateof-the-art facility to replace existing outdated buildings. The new building will stand three-stories high and house 52 classrooms. The $64 million project is projected to open for occupancy by August of 2019. “As a student at SRVHS over 30 years ago, I studied in the single story school buildings that are being transformed into the new classroom facility,” said SRVUSD Board President Mark Jewett. “Back then, those buildings were a little outdated and dilapidated. Fast forward 30 years and you can understand we are no longer talking restoration or renovation, but transformation, and this new facility will transform teaching

SRVHS.” Preparation and demolition began in the summer of 2016. The existing underground electrical system was replaced school-wide and updated to support the new building and the temporary portable classrooms. Demolition of the outdated buildings occurred next, followed by the preparation of the building pad and installation of utilities for the new building. With all of the prep work complete, construction on the building was cleared to begin in April of 2017. For more information about all Measure D funded projects visit www.buildsrvschools.org. Community members with questions about this project can email Facilities@srvusd. net. Photos of the event may be found at http://bit.ly/2qXsaSp.

The 2017 Northern California Junior Lacrosse Association Championship U-14 Girls Flight 2

Research: There are child and help him or her with a n a b u n d a n c e o f s i t e s a journal. It not only improves t h a t p r o v i d e s u m m e r writing skills, but also creates reading lists for children. At w w w. B o o k Ad ve n t u re. great family memories. Math: Helping mom or com, children (grades K-8) dad with grocery shopping create personalized book develops opportunities to use lists from more than 7,500 math skills, such as making recommended titles, take change, weighing fruits and quizzes on the books they’ve vegetables, etc. Providing read at school or at home, and assistance with cooking can earn points towards prizes for also familiarize children their reading comprehension. with fractions, weights and The program is designed to measures, organization and motivate students to read sequencing. Help children pick more often, for longer periods a recipe, create an ingredients of time and with greater list, go shopping, and prepare understanding. A n a l ys i s a n d L o g i c : the family meal together. Reading: You can’t start M a ny f a m i l y g a m e s a n d too early. You can’t read too puzzles are not only fun, much. Reading to young but help children to develop children nurtures an interest and reinforce skills. A simple i n l a n g u a g e, wo rd s a n d c a r d g a m e c a n i n v o l v e communication. For older kids, mathematics, analysis and reading together can be fun logical thinking. Be sure to and interesting. Children also select games appropriate for learn by example. If parents your child’s age level. Summer Enrichment are setting time aside to read, it reinforces the fun and Programs: There are many enjoyment of reading. Local enrichment activities available libraries offer infinite resources for children when school for children. Librarians can is out-of-session. Sylvan recommend books appropriate Learning offers engaging for your child’s reading level p ro g ra m s t h a t ke e p t h e and interests, and many interest and fun in learning libraries offer free children’s alive through the summer and RSETAUDDIYN GS K I LMLWSA RT IHT IANNGDR EMAOSDRTI EU DY M AT H READING WM R IATTI H NG N!G into the school year. programs and clubs.

Math M AReading TH

A D II T MA AT TH H REAR RE EI N AG D II N NG G W R IW WTR RI N TGII N NG G M A T HM D

S KWI R L LI TS I

SUT TDU UYD DY YS KS SIK KLIILLLSLL S S Camps ANN NDD D MM MOO ORR REE E!!! S TS AA RWriting E A DMI A N TG H W RRI ET A IM NDG AI N TH G S T UWR DR

you know Think you knowThink Sylvan? ThinkSylvan? you know Sylvan?

Think Again! Think Again! Think Again! knowSylvan? Sylvan? ThinkThinkyouyouknow

Think Again! TUTORING Think Again! STEM TUTORING STEM STEM TUTORING MATH PROGRAMS MATH PROGRAMS MATH PROGRAMS TUTORING STEMSTEM TUTORING COLLEGE PREP COLLEGE PREP COLLEGE PREP PROGRAMS MATHMATH PROGRAMS

Think youThink knowyouThink Sylvan? knowyouSylva know COLLEGE PREP COLLEGE PREP

We offer the FUTURES BRING ON EXTRAORDINARY BRING ON EXTRAORDINARY FUTURES BRINGFUTURES ON EXTRAORDINARY

BEST TUTORING ...

We of

BEST TUT

Weoffer offerthe the BRING ON FUTURES We BRING ON EXTRAORDINARY BRING ON proven EXTRAORDINARY FUTURES BRING ON EXTRAORDINARY EXTRAORDINARY FUTURES OurFUTURES proven tutoring programs areproven just the beginning. Our tutoring programs are just the beginning. Our tutoring programs are just the beginning. Our proven tutoring programs are just Our proven programs are just the beginning. Our proven tutoring programs are just the beginning. Our proven tutoring programs are just beginning. There are the so many ways we There can putareyour child on an we can put your child on an There aretutoring so many ways wethe can put your child on an so many ways are so many ways There so many ways we can put child on an There are soThere many we ways we can put your your child on can an Therebeginning. are so are many ways can put your child onwe an extraordinary path. And we’reextraordinary here to guide youAnd every extraordinary path. And we’re here topath. guide you every path. we’re here to guide you every . . and . . and put your child on anwe’re extraordinary extraordinary path. And here to every extraordinary path. And we’re here to guide guide you every extraordinary path. And we’re here to guide you you every MATH EDGE • ALGEBRA EDGE MATH EDGE • MATH EDGE •ALGEBRA EDGE MATH EDGE • ALGEBRA ALGEBRA EDGE MATH EDGE step of theofway. step way.to guide you every step of• the way.EDGE And we’re here step step of the way. step of of thethe way. step of the way. the way.

BESTTUTORING TUTORING...... BEST . . and MATH SKILL PROGRAMS . . and MATH SK MATH SKILL PROGRAMS MATH SKILL PROGRAMS out what our next generation programs, cool .. Find andSTEM STEM COURSES Find outout what ourgeneration next generation programs, coolwhat cool Find outFind what our next programs, cool Find out our next generation programs, Find what our next generation programs, out what next generation cool STEM . . and COURSES . . andourcool STEM COURSESprograms,. . and Find out what our next generation

Think Again! Think Again! Think Ag

ROBOTICS •• CODING •• ENGINEERING SCIENCE technology and personal approach can do for your family. ROBOTICS ROBOTICS CODING• ENGINEERING ENGINEERING• •• SCIENCE SCIENCE • CODING technology andand personal approach can doyour for technology and personal approach can do for family. CODING ROBOTICS • CODING SCIENCE technology and personal can do for your• ENGINEERING family. technology personal approach canyour dofamily. for your family.approach technology and personal approach•ROBOTICS can do for• your fam•

programs, cool technology and personal

. . and for teens,

. . andforforteens, teens, . . and Call us today! . . and for teens, COLLEGEPREP PREP COLLEGE

Call us Call us today! today! Call us today! approach can do for your family.

Call us today!

RESERVE TODAY! RESERVE YOUR SPOT TODAY! RESERVE YOURYOUR SPOTSPOT TODAY!

From Left to right:Coach Mark Elliot, Madison Weil, Juliet Shires, Hannah Novak, Reagan Helfer, Lilly Van Wagenen, Alexa Behdjet, Elizabeth Hagan, Paige Pearson, McKenna King, Kelsey Helfer, Coach Kyle Wulf, Marissa Crenshaw, Kaitlyn Curran, Charlize Wulf, Mara Helfer, and Olivia Romo (goalie in the front)

The Scorpion Scrappers from Alamo and Danville, on May 21, 2017 beat LaMorinda

Force, then won against The Alameda Attack, and finally in the Championship game

defeated the Walnut Creek Warriors.

. . and f

COLLEG STEM STEM TUTORING STEMCOLLEGE PREP TUTORING MATH PROGRAMS MATH PROGRAMS MATH PROGRAMS COLLEGE PREP COLLEGE PREP COLLEG

Call us today!

Check out our awesome camps, fun programs and dynamic prep classes.

To that dream college and excel! To get get into that dream college—— —and andexcel! excel! To get intointo that dream college

To get into that drea To get into that dream college — and excel!

RESERVE TODAY! Sylvan of San Ramon Sylvan ofYOUR San Ramon Sylvan of SPOT San Ramon Save $50 Ask about our early registration Ask about our registration Ask about ourearly early registration RESERVE SPOT TODAY! RESERVE YOUR SPOT TODAY! RESERVE YOUR SPOT TODAY! 925-830-1902 Sylvan of SanYOUR Ramon 925-830-1902 925-830-1902 discounts! Mention code VS01 on any camp or program! discounts! Mention code discounts! Mention codeVS01 VS01 srsylvan@gmail.com

srsylvan@gmail.com srsylvan@gmail.com Sylvan of San Ramon 925-830-1902 925-830-1902 srsylvan@gmail.com srsylvan@gmail.com

Sylvanfor of San Ramon Sylvan of San Ramon for additional savings! additional savings! for additional savings! Mention code VS2. Ask about our early registration Ask about our e 925-830-1902 925-830-1902 Expires 4/30/17. Expires 4/30/17. Expires 4/30/17. discounts! Mention code VS01 discounts! Men

Expires 6/5/17 srsylvan@gmail.com srsylvan@gmail.com for additional savings! for addition

Expires 4/30/17.

Expires

Y LL V SA YN VL A AE N N ENA AIR RNN NGII .N NCG GO.. C C OM M S Y L VS A LLRE MO

S Y L V AON NLEARN I N G .BRING CFUTURES OM S Y L VON A N L E A EXTRAORDINAR R N I N G . CFUTURES O M S Y LVA N L E A R N I N BRING ON EXTRAORDINARY BRING EXTRAORDINARY

Our proven tutoring Our programs proven tutoring are just Ourthe programs proven beginning. tutoring are justprograms the beginnin are

Fitness & Beauty page 8

The Valley SenTinel

Q & A on Health and Fitness: How can you start? Good health and physical fitness – it’s something we would all like to have, but I think we can agree, it’s not easy to obtain, especially in today’s society. Over the last 40 years, physical fitness has morphed from a great personal goal to a commodified product. What used to be hard work and dedication has been replaced with workout clothes, juice cleanses, crash diets, pills, and an endless array of classes - all with grand promises of making you look better. In a sea of options, we wanted to take a step back and reassess. What should health and wellness really mean to us? How can we achieve it? Why can it be so hard to obtain?

To get to the bottom of it, we have teamed up with two local experts in the fitness space – Matt Johns and Dan Smithwick. Matt and Dan, what’s your experience and how long have you been in the fitness space? Matt: “When I think about it, I’ve really spent close to my entire life in the space. I grew up playing baseball for the Danville Hoots and football for the SRV T-Birds, played baseball and football in San Ramon Valley, went to undergrad studying Kinesiology, played 4 years of Division I baseball, and have worked 15 years (and counting!) as a personal trainer and strength & conditioning coach. I always

Want a Lift

without Surgery?

Reclaim youth with • Nova Thread Lift • Liquid Face-Lift • Micro-Fractional CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing w/ Erbium √ √ √ √

Safe, in-office procedures Convenient appointments Minimal down-time Gift Cards Available

Schedule with Shiva for your customized enhancement treatment!

CALL TODAY 925-743-1488

June 2017 loved to train and working hard to improve, and going into private training and coaching allowed me to share the power of training, health and fitness on much larger scale. Dan: “I would say my health and wellness journey began when I was growing up playing ball year round. I was eager to get better as an athlete, but didn’t know what to do – that’s when I found Matt and started training with him over 12 years ago as a freshman at SRV. I trained with him throughout the rest of high school playing baseball and football, progressed through 4 years of college football in the Ivy League, a year in a professional league overseas and 10 years coaching and mentoring local youth athletes. During college I had the opportunity to work under some of the pioneers of the fitness industry in a private equity capacity, and have since decided to refocus on the business side after starting out in finance. Why a career in health? Dan: “We realized, the positive effects of an active lifestyle compounded into all areas our lives and was much more than just physical physique - it’s also mental. Through our years as athletes and working in the space, we mentally have been trained to live our best lives. Honestly, it’s the best space to be in. What’s the most rewarding part of being in this space? Matt: “The people. In particular, helping people regain their level of fitness, strength, conditioning, functional movement and power, ultimately achieving goals they never previously thought were possible.” What does “health and wellness” mean to you? Dan: “It’s the most important asset! And the best part, it’s something we all can infl uence and control. That said, it’s often deprioritized or taken for granted. External health, wellness and fitness (looks, physique, etc) are the outward effects of healthy/ fit/active habits, but the most important/powerful benefit is internal – mentally, physically, and emotionally. In your opinion, what is the most important thing you need to lead a healthy lifestyle?

valleysentinel.com

Matt Johns (L) and Dan Smithwick (R) at their Intrinsic Motivation (IM) Fit location

Matt: “That’s simple – it’s attitude. Attitude is how you commit to a healthy lifestyle, build great habits, hold yourself accountable and remain committed as your healthy lifestyle becomes built in to your daily routines. You have to embrace the challenge to be your best self and be relentless in pursuing it.” Why should people want to lead a healthy lifestyle? Matt: “In our minds, pursuing a healthy lifestyle is pursuing a happy lifestyle. Health and fitness is starting to get more positive press, but unfortunately, it’s still o f t e n ove r l o o ke d o r d e emphasized by poor habits or medical treatment focused on just curing short-term symptoms, not long-term causes or improvements.” What is the right age to start thinking about fitness? Matt: “Everyone should audit their fitness. Young athletes and kids should be taught healthy eating and physical activity habits. Older athletes should understand their bodies and how to take care of them. Elder athletes and individuals should recognize how healthy living and active lifestyles can mitigate, if not eliminate, much of the health problems associated with aging in today’s world. In a world full of fitness options and “solutions”, how can people navigate those chaotic waters and start their journey? Dan: “Start where you’re comfortable. For example, if you have a background in dance, then consider Barre. Or if you’re background is college sports, HIIT-style classes may be a good fit. If you feel overwhelmed or intimidated with large gym environments, then start on

your own walking, running or cycling in your neighborhood or local track or field. The most important part is getting started – doing something is better than nothing and it comes back to your attitude and commitment to yourself. Also, don’t expect to reinvent your fitness and health overnight. Fitness is an iterative process – it’s compounding. It’s those little steps every day that add up to big, life-changing i m p rove m e n t s, s o d o n ’ t be discouraged! Just keep moving and find that intrinsic motivation! What’s the most common myth about fitness? Dan: “That it can be instant. There is no magic pill, diet, outfit or workout! Fitness is holistic – training, sleep, hydration, nutrition are all equally important for a healthy, fit lifestyle. Consistency is paramount, regardless of age or skill level. The diet industry booms because of the ‘quick fix’ or instant gratification marketing – these just aren’t realistic and the path to a fit life is really quite simple. Eating clean, training hard and smart and taking care of your body are the fundamental ingredients. Any final tips for our readers? Matt: “Stop thinking and start moving! You can think of 100s, even 1000s of excuses, but you know that you’ll never regret a great workout. And at the end of that workout, I promise, your body and mind will be thanking you – that can be the best reminder to keep pushing.” Matt Johns and Dan Smithwick are the owners of IM FIT Performance Training in Danville, located at 542 San Ramon Valley Blvd. To reach them, or for more information, visit www.im-fit.com or call (925) 548-5038.

valleysentinel.com

June 2017

The Valley SenTinel

page 9

No time like the present to #LiveLocallyDanville

Danville brings out the best in ambiance, color and the experience of “Living Locally” with new branding look and focus Sentinel Staff writer

Whenever people ask me what I do or where I work, the subject of Danville always draws delight. There a re p l e n t y o f c o m m e n t s about the hometown feel, the charming downtown and events that take place in Danville that people have attended over the years, such as the Hot Summer Nights Car Shows, or Danville’s Fourth of July Parade put on each year by the Kiwanis Club. These traditions are a big draw not only for Town residents, but also for the wider region. People look forward to coming here not only for these events, but to enjoy the shops and restaurants in what feels like a throwback from the past. But as years roll by, change is inevitable, and the Town of Danville is adapting. While preserving everything that draws people here to shop and dine, driving economic vitality is paramount. The Town has developed a new visual brand and marketing campaign around the concept of “Living Locally” that includes a custom color palette inspired by Danville’s h e r i t a g e a n d l a n d s c a p e. The marketing campaign includes the new tagline “Live Locally,” and new hashtag #LiveLocallyDanville. “The new branding and marketing shines a spotlight on Danville, and inspires a visit to the unique businesses within the community,” said Assistant to the Town Manager Nat Rojanasathira. “We’re excited to have brand tools that weave together our parks,

heritage businesses, and family-friendly community, and that tell the story of what it means to truly ‘live locally’.” The new branding and marketing concept was developed collaboratively over the past eight months through community brand workshops, Town Council sessions, and interviews with locals led by the branding and marketing firm, Bellweather Agency. The new visual brand includes: • Custom logos inspired by Danville’s old oak tree and oak leaves.

• Custom photography, much of it created by the community. The custom images are created via a photographic process called cyanotypes—a process that relies on accessible art supplies and sunlight. Images have already been created by town residents and employees, with future community workshops planned. • Custom color palette, inspired by Danville’s landscape and scenic outdoor spaces. “The brand is inspired by Danville and created

w i t h D a n v i l l e re s i d e n t s and business owners. We are thrilled to be a part of this collaboration,” said Bellweather Agency Chief Creative Officer Emily Lessard. Keva Dodd, owner of Whim House, a contemporary home furnishing and gift store in downtown Danville, was involved in the community branding workshop. “The retailers in Danville strive to offer special, well valued items and concierge services which many times are not offered at big chains or online,” Dodd said. She added, “The new branding campaign champions the theme of “live locally,” which I think is key to keeping our community vital and unique.” Marcia Harmon of Cottage Jewel commented that “even After 16 years as a Danville shopkeeper and event participant, I still get asked if I just opened my boutique! That sounds crazy, but with all of the construction and facade enhancement over the last four years, our downtown looks a bit different! Now we need our next door neighbors to come discover our new offerings, new restaurants, new shops and new activities”, she said. “It is vital to SHOP Locally to maintain the small-town charm and personal character that has historically distinguished our community.” Marcia went on to say, “I am excited about the fresh modern look of the new Town branding even for an oldfashioned heritage business like Cottage Jewel!” “Danville is made up of distinctive brick-and-

mortar retail, restaurant, and service businesses. This, joined with the vast array of heritage, culture, distinctive parks and trails creates a personal experience you can’t find anywhere else”, said Economic Development Manager Jill Bergman. “Residents living locally

contribute to Danville’s economic vitality. For every $50 spent here, an average of $23 is reinvested in the community by the Town and local business.” For more information, contact Economic Development Manager Jill Bergman at (925) 314-3369 or jbergman@danville. ca.gov.

Senior Living page 10

The Valley SenTinel

June 2017

How to Lower Your Medicare Drug Costs By Greg Dill

Driving near Monterey, Calif., recently, I stopped at a roadside stand to buy some freshly-picked strawberries. M ay i s h i g h s e a s o n f o r

California strawberries, and the fields were exploding with beautiful, ripe fruit. The gentleman working the stand, Jack, asked what I do for a living. When I told him I work for Medicare, he said he was having difficulty paying for his prescription drugs. So we talked for a while about ways he might be able to reduce his drug costs.

Vintage Jewelry Gifts for All Occasions

Bridal Jewelry and Brooch Bouquet Kits www.etsy.com/shop/vintagejewelryetal (Local seller)

Enter Code BHGVS15 at checkout for 15% off your purchase

A Reverse Mortgage

Could Change Your Life Would you like to see how much you can get? Call Greg Sawdey at (925) 487-2354 TODAY to get a written proposal or visit gsawdey.totallyreverse.com to use our free calculator and download our free complete guide to Reverse Mortgages. NMLS #346987 HighTechLending, Inc., Licensed by the Department of Business Oversight under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act. NMLS #7147. Licensed in AZ #0912577, CA #4130937, CO #7147, FL #7147, HI #7147, MD #21762, NJ #7147, OR #ML4386, PA #49892, TX #7147, UT #8874117, WA #7147. 2030 Main Street #350, Irvine, CA 92614. NMLS Consumer Access: www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org

valleysentinel.com

these programs may count toward your true out-of-pocket (TrOOP) costs. TrOOP costs are the expenses that count If you have Medicare toward your Medicare drug and you’re having trouble plan out-of-pocket expenses— paying for prescription drugs, up to $4,950 in 2017. These signing up for Medicare’s Part costs determine when your D prescription drug coverage catastrophic coverage will may help, even if you have to begin. pay a late-enrollment penalty. • L o o k i n g i n t o There are other ways you Manufacturer’s Pharmaceutical may be able to save. Consider A s s i s t a n c e P r o g r a m s switching to drugs that cost (sometimes called Patient less. Ask your doctor if there Assistance Programs) offered are generic, over-the-counter, by the makers of the drugs or less expensive brand-name you take. Many major drug drugs that could work just as manufacturers offer assistance well as the ones you’re taking for people enrolled in a now. Medicare drug plan. Switching to lower-cost Find out whether the drugs can save you hundreds manufacturers of the drugs you or possibly thousands of dollars take offer assistance by visiting a year. Visit the Medicare Plan Medicare.gov/pharmaceuticalFinder at assistance-program or calling M e d i c a re. g ov / f i n d - a - 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800plan to get information on 633-4227). TTY users should ways to save money in your call 1-877-486-2048. Such Medicare drug plan. Or call assistance programs aren’t 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633- part of Medicare Part D, so any 4227) and ask our customer help you get from this type of service representatives. program won’t count toward You may also be able your TrOOP costs. t o l owe r yo u r M e d i c a re • Applying for Extra Help prescription drug costs by: paying for your Medicare • Exploring national- and prescription drugs. If you have community-based programs Medicare and have limited that may help you with your income and resources, you drug costs, like the National may qualify for Extra Help. To Patient Advocate Foundation or the National Organization for Rare Disorders. Get information on federal, state, and private Hope Hospice is pleased assistance programs in your to announce that St. Claire’s area on the Benefits Check Up Home Health has become a website at benefitscheckup.org. division of Hope Hospice. The help you get from some of That means Hope Hospice now offers a full spectrum of care including home health, palliative care and hospice care to patients in the TriValley and surrounding areas. Both Hope Hospice and St. Claire’s Home Health have the highest quality ratings in the East Bay, so patients can continue to receive the best of care. “We are very excited to join the Hope Hospice team,” says Suzan Ferrer, St. Claire’s CFO. “Hope Hospice is a respected organization that is deeplyrooted in the community.” St. Claire’s CEO Allurie Neri, RN, BSN adds that, “We are looking forward to blending Hope’s excellent patient care with our clinical team.” As a combined agency, both Hope Hospice and St. Claire’s Home Health will o p e ra t e a s a n o n - p ro f i t , community-led organization. St. Claire’s will now be the only non-profit home health agency in the Tri-Valley area.

apply for Extra Help, contact Social Security by visiting socialsecurity.gov/i1020or by calling 1-800-772-1213. TTY users should call 1-800-3250778. Extra Help can save you thousands of dollars on drug costs. If you need help finding re s o u rc e s l i ke t h e o n e s described above, call your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) and ask for free personalized counseling for people with Medicare. To get the phone number for your state’s SHIP, visit s h i p t a c e n t e r. o rg , o r c a l l 1-800-MEDICARE. And if you’re wondering whether Jack charged me for the strawberries, he did offer them for free. But since helping people with Medicare is a big part of my job, I told him I preferred to pay despite his kind offer. We settled on a fair price, along with some freshly baked shortcake. Greg Dill is Medicare’s regional administrator for Arizona, California, Hawaii, Nevada, and the Pacific Territories. You can always get answers to your Medicare questions by calling 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-6334227).

Hope Hospice expands services “Our goal is to help people remain independent at home for as long as possible,” says Bob Boehm, Hope Hospice CEO. “Combining home health care with our agency means we can offer rehabilitative therapies as well as palliative care to patients who have chronic or advanced illnesses but are not currently on hospice.” He explains that these patients can still seek curative treatments while receiving pain and symptom management, support and guidance from Hope Hospice. Because the Hope Hospice staff will be managing both home care and hospice care, patients will be able to transition from one type of care to the other seamlessly, as their illnesses progress. In searching for a home health care agency, Hope Hospice considered ones that shared its standards for high quality care and service. St. Claire’s is accredited by The Joint Commission and is Medicare certified. It has a 5-star rating (the highest) with Medicare. Learn more at HopeHospice. com or contact (925) 829-8770.

valleysentinel.com

June 2017

Schedule Your Event In The Regional Parks By Beverly Lane, President, East Bay Regional Park District Board of Directors

and South, both at Quarry Lakes Regional Recreation Area in Fremont, and the Botanic Garden at Tilden Regional Park (note that the Botanic Garden is available for ceremonies June is a month of celebraonly, with a two-hour maxitions: weddings, anniversaries, mum use). Roberts Regional graduation parties, and just Recreation Area on Skyline plain enjoyment of the beautiBoulevard in Oakland has ful regional parklands available shady picnic areas under the to residents of the East Bay and redwoods, with a nearby swimbeyond. ming pool. East Bay Regional Park For complete informaDistrict has a great choice of tion on wedding and event venues, both indoor and outsites, their description, and door, for whatever festivities their rates, visit you have in the East Bay mind. Regional Park Let’s start District website, with indoors. www.ebparks. Probably the org. Click on best-known “Activities” on wedding site the left side of in the regionthe home page. al parks is Then scroll the Brazilian down and click Room at Tilagain on “Wedden Regional ding/Events/ Pa r k n e a r Meetings.” Berkeley. The Yo u c a n building extemake reserrior was convations at the structed by website, too. Or Works Prog- The Brazil Building in Tilden Park. Photo by Eric Sahlin ress Administration (WPA) patio and adjacent rose garden you can call the Park District craftsmen and dedicated in with waterfall – a great photo reservations department at 888327-2757 and select option 2 1941. The interior wood panel- backdrop. There are lots of outdoor to speak to a reservations staff ing was once part of the Brazilian Pavilion at the 1939 Golden venues as well for parties in the member. Just in general, it’s a Gate International Exhibition regional parks. One of the most good idea to plan well ahead, beautiful is at Ardenwood because summer is the really on Treasure Island. Social events and business Historic Farm in Fremont, busy season in the regional meetings are all easily accom- where ample picnic grounds parks. modated at the Brazilian Room. are near the historic Patterson * * * However, due to its popularity, House, a restored 19th century Speaking of summer, the mansion. An added attraction it is generally booked months Park District swim areas are all at Ardenwood is the farm itin advance. Another possibility is Fern self, where domestic animals, now open. The District operCottage, located among shady planted fields, and interpretive ates six open-water lakefront eucalyptus trees at Kennedy programs recreate life on a 19th beaches, three chlorinated lagoons, two pools, and two Grove Regional Recreation century farming estate. Some of the most popular bay shoreline beaches. Subject Area in El Sobrante. The cottage can seat 60 guests inside. reservable outdoor wedding to weather, attendance and It has a backyard with covered sites in the regional parks in- staff availability, lifeguards are deck, and a kitchen with range clude Newt Hollow at Briones on duty at all but the two bay Regional Park near Orinda, beaches. and refrigerator. Full details on locations, The Shoreline Center at Loma Island at Contra Loma Martin Luther King Jr. Regional Regional Park in Antioch, Li- fees, rules and hours of opShoreline in Oakland is on chen Bark at Del Valle near eration are available at the Doolittle Drive overlooking Livermore, Ensenada North website. San Leandro Bay. It has a full commercial kitchen, seating capacity for 80, and an outside deck as well. Floor to ceiling windows provide great views of the bay and park. WPA workers built the Temescal Beach House at Temescal Regional Recreation Area in Oakland. The picturesque building on the lakeshore was originally park district headquarters and later the controller’s office. Now it is a meeting/party locale with seating for 80, a fireplace, kitchen,

Danville Police Offers ‘Exchange’ Zone

Space at Town Offices created to allow for safe transactions Beginning this week, residents who purchase items via online services such as Craigslist will now have a designated neutral ‘Exchange Zone’ in the upper parking lot of the Danville Town offices to conduct their business. Signage has been installed a n d t h e D a n v i l l e Po l i c e Department has designated parking spaces at the Town of Danville offices, 510 La

Gonda Way, for residents to conduct transactions in a video-recorded space. Besides taking place right outside police headquarters, the spaces are under constant video recording, helping create an atmosphere of safety and assurance to wouldbe buyers, and dissuading criminals from using online merchandising for criminal purposes.

“Having the Exchange Zone should help prevent residents from being the victim of a crime using a classified ads site,” said Police Chief Steve Simpkins. “This should help us continue to convince criminals that Danville is not a good place to operate.” To learn more about the safe zone, contact Det. Sgt. Brian Sliger at (925) 314-3700 or bsliger@danville.ca.gov.

The valley Sentinel ATHLETE from page 1

Liebowitz was selected from a field of four accomplished young women athletes representing four Tri-Valley area high schools. Runner-up nominees were: Amanda O’Brien (Lacrosse) Dougherty Valley High School; Ashley Ward (Soccer and Lacrosse), California High School and Jenna Bloom (Tennis), Monte Vista High School. Each candidate was nominated by their schools’ coaches and athletic directors and were selected based on their accomplishments and honors in their sports, their leadership and service to the community. “We annually honor outstanding female athletes that personify exc e l l e n c e i n a t h l e t i c s, leadership and community service” said Danville Rotary President Leslie Steller. “These young women are excellent role models for all female athletes, regardless of their age.” The athletes were recognized at a recent Danville Rotary Club luncheon attended by their coaches, school officials and parents. Liebowitz’s name will be inscribed on a perpetual trophy that will be housed at San Ramon Valley High School for the next year. Each school’s athletic department received a monetary donation from the Rotary Club of Danville. Liebowitz, who is described by her coach as “one of the best water polo players in school history,” was also characterized as ”a student athlete that leads by example and is a caring individual, even to her opponents!” Liebowitz

page 11

is a 4-time 1st team all League, First Team all NCS, First Team all East Bay and a 4-year All American. As a 4.0 student, she also received the Athletic Scholar award all four years at SRVHS. Liebowitz will be attending the University of California, Los Angeles on an athletic scholarship in the fall of 2017. “We congratulate and salute all four nominated athletes,” said club president, Rod Oehrlein. “The Rotary Club of Danville is always h o n o re d t o s p o n s o r t h e Outstanding Female Athlete of Year awards, as well as several other programs that recognize the achievements of our local youth. These young people represent the next generation of community leaders who exemplify Rotary’s values of leadership, dedication and community service.” Rotary is an organization of local business, professional and community leaders committed to the ideal of service above self. It is united worldwide to provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations and help build goodwill and peace in the world. The Rotary Club of Danville is the oldest Rotary Club in the San Ramon Valley. The Rotary Club of Danville is dedicated to serving the community with philanthropic projects, programs to improve the lives of the less fortunate and a variety of youth awards and scholarships. Members believe in giving sweat equity as well as providing financial support for local and international service projects. All meetings are open to guests. For more information see www. danvillerotary.org

Leadership San Ramon Valley is taking applications for the Class of 2018 Would you like to learn more about the San Ramon Valley? Meet influential business people? Learn more about leadership? Would you like to apply ? Candidacy is open to all who have an interest in the dynamics of the San Ramon Valley. Criteria for participation include: • I n t e r e s t i n a n d commitment to the San Ramon Valley community • Desire for personal and professional growth • C o m m i t m e n t t o quality leadership • Desire for personal and professional networking opportunities

• Participants must be prepared to attend all seminars and must have the full support of their employers or organizations. Tuition for this 10-month program is $1095. Some financial assistance is available based upon demonstrated need. Tuition may be paid by the participant or by an employer, business, professional firm, club or organization. More Information and Application The selection process takes place April through June for the program year which begins in September. To learn more about this dynamic program, please call (925) 272-8553 or e-mail us at leadershipsrv@att.net.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

June

•

June

•

June

•

June

•

June

•

June

•

June

For additional Community Events visit: www.ValleySentinel.com Please email information about your events to info@valleysentinel.com COMMUNITY EVENTS June 3-4 Walnut Creek Art & Wine Festival 11am-7pm Sat., and 11am-6pm Sun. Celebrate the sizzling season’s kickoff at the 36th annual Walnut Creek Art & Wine Festival including two fun-filled days of free family entertainment with over 250 arts and crafts booths, live music, a wide variety of food and drink concessions, Craft Brew Garden for suds fans, interactive Kids Zone - all spread throughout beautiful Heather Farm Park, 301 N. San Carlos Drive, Walnut Creek. Festival admission is free. June 5 Fallen Heroes Celebrity Golf & Bocce Ball Tournament and Tribute Dinner 8am-8pm Police and Fire: The Fallen Heroes is proud to announce their 8th Annual Fallen Heroes Celebrity Golf & Bocce Ball Tournament & Tribute Dinner. Cook-to-order breakfast by FAZ at 8:30 a.m. Opening Ceremony includes; Palm Springs Police Department and the Oakland Fire Department Honor Guards, Bagpipes and Drums and the San Francisco Police Department Mounted Unit. National Anthem sung by retired NYPD Officer, Ground Zero Survivor, Daniel Rodriguez. Shotgun start at 11:15 with a Bocce Ball Tournament kicking-off at 12:00 noon. The Tribute Cocktail Reception / Silent Auction begins at 4:30pm, Dinner / Tribute / Live Auction to follow at 6:00pm. Proceeds benefit The Fallen Heroes Scholarship and Help for Heroes Funds. Diablo Country Club, Diablo, CA For additional information please visit our website at www.thefallenheroes.org, or call (925) 831-2011. June 12 Down Syndrome Connection ‘Tips for Change” 5-8pm The mission of the Down Syndrome Connection of the Bay Area is to empower, inspire, and support people with Down syndrome, their families and the community that serves them, while fostering awareness and acceptance in all areas of life. Supporters and staff will be your servers for the evening with all tips and 10% of sales going to support their organization. You will enjoy a wonderful dinner and support a worthy cause! For reservations call (925) 820-6969. Gianni’s Italian Bistro is located at 2065 San Ramon Valley Blvd., San Ramon 94583. June 17 Doggie Days in the Park 9am-1pm Please join us for our second annual doggie day extravaganza event to be held on Saturday, June 17th from 9am - 1pm at the San Ramon Memorial Dog Park! This day will include San Ramon Police K9 Unit demonstrations, vendors with dog-specific related goods and services, food trucks, dog contests, a costume parade, a pooch playground and more! Do you have the cutest puppy or the most unusual looking dog? Is your dog able to perform a great trick? Does your dog have a fantastic costume or do you look just like your dog? If so, go online and register today. Only $5 per dog for each contest. www.sanramon.org June 17-18 Danville Summerfest 10am-6pm sat., 10-am-5pm Sun. We are looking forward to our 2017 Danville Summerfest to be held on Saturday and Sunday June 17 & 18. This popular event is brought to you by the Danville Area Chamber of Commerce. Danville is a family-friendly, dogfriendly community. We have first class shopping and restaurants recognized for excellent cuisine and fun. Danville Summerfest is brought to you by the Danville Area Chamber of Commerce (925) 837-4400. The Classic Car Show takes place on Sunday, 10:00 to 5:00. East Prospect Avenue comes alive with this popular event. Over 30 of the coolest cars and hot rods grace the street. Not only do you get to look under the hoods, you get to meet and talk to the owners of these awesome machines! June 19 Javistrong54 Golf Tournament 9am-8pm Join us for the 1st Annual JaviStrong54 Golf Tournament! This is a fundraiser for the JaviStrong54 Foundation, dedicated to helping enhance the lives of individuals with spinal cord injuries as well as their families. Blackhawk Country Club Lakeside Course. Golfer Registration 9am, Shotgun start, 11am Hosted cocktail hour, 5pm, Dinner and Live auction, 6pm. Food, Beverages, games and more. All proceeds go directly toward the medical bills that come with these unfortunate events. The Foundation is partnering with Ronnie Lott’s foundation, All Stars Helping Kids. For more information about All Stars Helping Kids, visit their website at www. allstarshelpingkids.org. June19-July 9 Alameda County Fair Get hyped for The Annual Alameda County Fair this summer! Bring your family and friends to see amazing shows, enjoy rides, and amazing food and drinks! Days Closed: Mon and Tues., June 19, 20, and June 26, 27. Carnival Hours: Wed - Thurs: Noon to Closing; Fri - Sun: 11am to Closing; July 3 & 4: 11am to Closing 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular; Featuring Oakland East Bay Symphony sponsored by Fremont Bank 4th of July - 9:30pm - Budweiser Grandstand. All this fun at Alameda County Fairgrounds, 4501 Pleasanton Ave., Pleasanton, CA 94566 For more information call (925) 426-7600: Concerts: Big O Concert Series Nightly at 8pm.

June 21 Annual Walnut Creek June Wine Walk 6-9pm Walnut Creek Downtown will be celebrating its 10th Annual Wine Walk. Join us for a fun-ﬁlled evening in downtown Walnut Creek. A portion of all proceeds will be beneﬁting the Walnut Creek Education Foundation. Stroll, sip and savor over 20-plus varietals while strolling downtown Walnut Creek. Experience the local businesses, restaurants and retail shops while enjoying live music throughout the evening. Many restaurants will be serving delicious food samples to enjoy with your wine. Starting location-Patioworld, 1628 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Walnut Creek. Tickets: Ticket Price: $30/Advance, $40/ Event Day. To purchase tickets, visit us at www.walnutcreekdowntown.com/ event/166 or Contact Walnut Creek Downtown at (925) 9336778

ONGOING Special Services for Children with Cancer and Their Families Cancer Support Community offers short-term counseling (12 to 20 sessions) at no cost to children with cancer and their families. Counseling can be for the family, siblings, and/or kids coping with cancer. Counseling is provided by doctoral interns or post doctoral fellows under the supervision of our clinical psychologists. To request this service, please call us at 925-933-0107 and ask to speak with our program director, Margaret Stauffer, LMFT. Hope Hospice seeking volunteers Hope Hospice is currently looking for individuals who are interested in volunteering to assist hospice patients and their families. In keeping with Hope Hospice’s goal to make sure patients can live their lives to the fullest and with dignity, volunteers provide a variety of services that help enhance the quality of care of our patients’ lives. Volunteer opportunities include; Home Care; Cosmetology; Healing Touch; Reiki; Massage Therapy; Vocalists. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, contact Jill Biggs, RN, at 925-829-8770. Volunteers Needed: Read to Preschoolers Volunteers are needed at childcare centers in Concord, Pittsburg, and West County. The Contra Costa County Library will supply books and resources. For more information, please contact Maureen Kilmurray at 925-927-3288. Alamo Farmer’s Market Every Sunday, Year round 9am-2pm, rain or shine. Fresh seasonal fruit and vegetables, nuts, local honey, live music, delicious varieties of hummus with fresh pita and pita chips. Located in the Alamo Plaza Shopping Center, at Stone Valley Road and Danville Blvd., with convenient parking. 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. Make sure to check out their online calendar before heading off to volunteer. Athenian High School, 2100 Mt. Diablo Scenic Blvd., Danville. Information: 925838-3213, cci.org/eastbaychapter Forest Home Farms Historic Park & Glass House Museum–open for Fun on the Farm Every Saturday 11am-2pm. Enjoy tours of the Glass House Museum, the farm and its history, interactive exhibits including the tractor museum, the beautiful grounds and free activities. Visit the Welcome Center and purchase old-fashioned toys and gifts at the Gift Shoppe. Tours are $5 per person, or $8 for both tours on the same day. 19953 San Ramon Valley Blvd, San Ramon. Information: 925-973-3284 or visit www.sanramon.ca.gov. Saturday without Reservations at the Tao House Every Saturday 10am, 12pm, and 2pm. Come explore this National Historic Site in Danville. Catch the shuttle at the bus stop in front of the Museum of the San Ramon Valley, 205 Railroad Ave. www. EugeneOneill.org

SENIORS Danville Seniors Unless otherwise noted, the following activities are held at the Danville Senior Center, Veterans Memorial Building, 115 E. Prospect, Danville. For more information call 925-314-3490 or visit www.ci.danville.ca.us/Recreation/Seniors. Sneaker Trips: The Town of Danville’s Senior Sneakers program is a great way for you to make new friends and get out and around the greater Bay Area. There’s always something new to see and learn. The Danville Area Senior Hikes (DASH) is open to all adults and meets on the second and fourth Wednesday of every month. The group starts at 8:45am at Osage Park, 816 Brookside Drive, Danville and returns about 1pm. Most hikes are not strenuous, but gradients are involved due to the local terrain. Distances are usually in the 4-5 mile range, and the pace is moderate, with stops to view scenery, wildlife and to talk about location history when appropriate. Information: 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: 925-973-3250. Trips Trip Desk is open Tuesdays from 10am-1pm. Sign up for trips at the travel desk or by depositing payment with registration form in the gold drop box found at the main entryway. Information: 925-973-3250. Wednesday Morning Hikes (time and location varies) Join the San Ramon Trailblazers if you are interested in meeting new people, enjoying the outdoors, having fun and getting in shape. The group meets once a week at the north end of Osage Park, off of Brookside Dr. This is an adults only group; pets are not permitted on hikes. To ﬁnd out the exact meeting location and to get on the email list, please call the Senior Center at or email trailblazer88@comcast.net. Page Turners Senior Book Group Third Tuesday of the month 1:30pm. Drop in–all are welcome! Copies of this month’s book are on reserve for you at the Dougherty Station Library Front Desk. Book group meets at Alcosta Senior and Community Center, 9300 Alcosta Blvd. Information: Carol Yuke, Adult Services Librarian. 925-973-2850.

BUSINESS June 5 Cash Flow: The Key to a Successful Business 9am-11am Learn the importance of cash flow. We will discuss basic cash flow management and will provide different resources for you to keep your business cash flow management up to date. Learn different parts of cash flow such as forecasting, planning, and managing inventory. Contact Oscar Dominguez (925) 602-6806 Contra Costa SBDC, 300 Ellinwood Way 1st Floor, Monterey Room, Pleasant Hill CA 94523-4859 FREE June 6 Website Building Basics-Building & Publishing Your Own Website 9am-12p This inspiring and interactive 1-day workshop is suitable for any level of experience or ability and is designed to introduce you to building and publishing your very own website. Space is Limited. Business Website Course Description: Get a domain name, Choose a Theme or a Look for your website, Get hosting, Build on a content management system (CMS), Make it mobile friendly, Optimize your copy for search engines and people, Importance of photos and videos on your website, Get visitors to take action, Build your list, Make it easy to contact you, Measure your traffic, Keep your website healthy. Register Now: Oscar Dominguez (925) 602-6806, 300 Ellinwood Way, 2nd Floor, Pleasant Hill FREE June 14 First Steps To Successful Start-Ups 9am-12:30pm Learn about the attributes of a successful entrepreneur, invaluable sources of information for the nuts and bolts of starting your business including licenses and permits, the business planning process and key information sources for developing your business plan, how to take advantage of the Small Business Development Center’s free and low cost services for your new business, and more. Join us to learn about the key success factors every new business owner needs before starting their venture! Register now: Oscar Dominguez (925) 602-6806 CC SBDC, 300 Ellinwood Way, Bodega Room, Pleasant Hill

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

valleysentinel.com June 15 Third Thursday Mixer - Dos Coyotes Border Cafe & Federal Realty 5:30-7pm The San Ramon Chamber of Commerce invites you to join them for their Third Thursday Mixer at Dos Coyotes Border Cafe in San Ramon! This Mixer will be co-hosted by Federal Realty. Meet other business owners for an opportunity to network and make your business more visible. It is $5 for San Ramon Chamber Members and $20 for Future Members. Dos Coyotes Border Café is located at 3191 Crow Canyon Road, Suite L, San Ramon, 94583. For more information call Kathy Fanning at the San Ramon Chamber of Commerce at (925) 242-0600. June 29 Buying The Right Business At The Right Price 9am-12pm Buying a business can be much easier than starting one, but it must be the right one: one that is suitable for you, proﬁtable, well run, without legal problems, ﬁnanceable, and more. This seminar will cover these topics as well as the other key issues of determining a fair price and doing your proper, in-depth investigation of the business. Register now: Oscar Dominguez (925) 602-6806. CC SBDC 300 Ellinwood Way, Bodega Room, Pleasant Hill BNI Every Thursday Noon-1:30pm. We are actively looking for new members to refer business to in the trades. We need a plumber, electrician, handyman and cleaning service but are also looking for other professions like property manager, event planner and many others. Vic Stewart’s Restaurant at 850 S Broadway in Walnut Creek. 925-330-8275 or david@staff.webquarry.com BBR-Partners for Success 1st and 3rd Tuesdays, 12-1pm. One of the Danville Area Chamber of Commerce’s successful Business by Referral groups, Partners for Success meets the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month to provide concrete business leads to one another. Chamber Conference Room, 117 E Town & Country Drive, Danville. www.danvilleareachamber. com BBR-Sunrise Alliance 2nd and 4th Wednesdays 7:30-8:30am. One of the Danville Area Chamber of Commerce’s successful Business by Referral groups, Sunrise Alliance meets the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month to provide concrete business leads to one another. Chamber Conference Room, 117 E Town & Country Drive. Danville. www.danvilleareachamber. com

CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS Tri-Valley Fly Fishers Visitors welcome to monthly meetings featuring guest speakers who share their knowledge of the sport. Meetings are held at 7:00 PM on the first Thursday of every month, September through June at the Livermore-Pleasanton Rod and Gun Club, 4000 Dagnino Road, Livermore, CA 94551. For more information please contact: Roger Perry, President of Tri-Valley Fly Fishers by email at President@Tri-valleyflyfishers/org Mt. Diablo Branch California Writers Club 11:15-3pm. Molly Williams, Publishing Director at Big Hat Press in Lafayette, will present “Not Only the Cover—Judge a Book by its Pages” at the next meeting of the Mt. Diablo Branch of the California Writers Club (CWC) on Saturday, June 10 at Zio Fraedo’s Restaurant, 611 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill. She has been in the publishing industry for over ten years. At Big Hat Press, she personally works with clients on design, setup, and layout from start to finish. Sign-in begins at 8:30am, Workshop is from 9:00a.m. to noon, luncheon from 12 to 12:45 pm. Speaker 1-2 pm The cost is $25 for CWC members, $30 for guests.

June 2017 Reservations required. Contact Robin at cwcrobin.gigoux@yahoo. com, or call 925-933-9670 Danville-Alamo-Walnut Creek Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) Advances equity for women and girls through advocacy, education, philanthropy and research. AAUW membership is open to all graduates of accredited four year colleges or universities and those holding an Associate Degree or equivalent. Prospective members are welcome and may contact Soni at 286-1737 for details. Visit daw-ca.aauw.net for meeting dates. Cancer workshops and support groups-Ongoing Most are free. Cancer Support Community, 3276 McNutt Avenue, Walnut Creek. Information / reservations call 925-933-0107 or visit www.cancersupportcommunity.net. Fibro? CFIDS? Chronic Pain? If these are familiar to you, call about the San Ramon Valley support group for people who need support, information, classes and friendship from people who know what it’s like. We like to laugh while getting well. Call 925-837-0510. Hope Hospice Grief Support Groups–Ongoing Hope Hospice provides support to help you understand and manage grief in a way that is healthy and appropriate. Our Grief Support Center is available to all community members at minimal or no cost. Information: visit www.HopeHospice.com or call 925-829-8770. Wind ‘n Sea Sailing Club Sailing training classes take place at members’ homes. Information: Call Jan at 925-837-3381.

RECURRING Mondays: The Walnut Creek Garden Club Meets the second Monday of each month. Meeting begins at 9:30am with community and socializing from 10:30-11:00am. You do not need to be a gardener to join the club. The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Road, Walnut Creek. Information: californiagardenclubs. com/content/walnut-creek-gardenclub or mslittle44@gmail.com Danville Rotary 12pm. Meets every Monday. Black Bear Diner, 807 Camino Ramon, Danville. Information: danvillerotary. org. San Ramon Alzheimer Support Group 7-9pm. Meets the second Monday of each month, except on holidays. Sponsored by the Alzheimer Association. People who know or are caregivers of Alzheimer victims can get information on how to help them through this difﬁcult time in life. San Ramon Senior & Community Center, 9300 Alcosta Blvd., San Ramon. Information: 925-973-3250. Sons In Retirement (Las Trampas Branch) Monthly Luncheon 11am. Meets the third Monday of each month, except for May and December. Make new friends, participate in fun activities. Make $15 luncheon reservations by calling 925-322-1160 by the preceding Wednesday. Walnut Creek Elks Lodge, 1475 Creekside Dr, Walnut Creek. Information: visit www.Branch116.org. Tuesdays: Danville am Toastmasters 7-8:30am. Want to improve your speaking and presentation skills? Toastmasters can help! Meets every Tuesday in downtown Danville. www.4143.toastmastersclubs.org Danville/Sycamore Valley Rotary 7am. Meets every Tuesday morning. Crow Canyon Country Club, Danville. Information: dsvrotary.com. San Ramon Valley Geneological Society 10am. Meets every third Tuesday at the LDS Church, 2949 Stone Valley Road, Alamo. http://srvgensoc.org

Diablo View Toastmasters 8:15-9:15am. Meets every Tuesday. CMG Mortgage, 4th Floor Conference Room, 3160 Crow Canyon Rd., San Ramon. Information: 4160. toastmastersclubs.org. ARF Pet Loss Support Group 5:30-7pm. Meets second Tuesday of every month. Register with Vicki at 925-887-5681 or vickis@hospiceeastbay.org. ARF, 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: arf.net. Divorced and Separated Workshop 7- 8:30pm. A new workshop series for divorced and separated people is being held on at St. Joan of Arc Parish, 2601 San Ramon Valley Blvd., San Ramon. Contact: Sue at smc9@ sbcglobal.net. 925 -819-1809. Prostate Cancer Group 7:30–9pm. Meets 2nd Tuesday of the month. Drop-in prostate cancer group for men and their loved ones. San Ramon Regional Medical Center, South Building, West Day Room. 6001 Norris Canyon Road, San Ramon. Information: 925.933.0107 or www.twc-bayarea.org/communityprograms.html. Wednesdays: Walnut Creek Toastmasters 7-8:15pm. Meets every Wednesday. 1660 Oak Park Blvd., Pleasant Hill. Information: walnutcreek. freetoasthost.net Hospice of the East Bay Drop-in Bereavement Support 4:30-6pm, 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of every month. 3470 Buskirk Avenue; Pleasant Hill. Information: 925-887-5681 or visit www.hospiceeastbay.org. Sons in Retirement (San Ramon Valley chapter) Monthly Luncheon 10:30am; Social Hour, 11:35am meeting and lunch. Meets the 3rd Wed. of each month. Reservations, please email us at www.info@ sir128.com by Friday prior to the luncheon. Bridges Golf Club, 9000 S. Gale Ridge Rd., San Ramon. Alamo Rotary 12:15pm. Meets every Wednesday. Round Hill Country Club, 3169 Roundhill Road, Alamo. Info: alamorotary.org. D a n v i l l e To a s t m a s t e r s C l u b #1785 7:30-9pm. Meets every Wednesday. Room W204 at Diablo Valley College,1690 Watermill Road, San Ramon. Information: danvilletoastmasters1785.com. San Ramon Valley Rotary 7pm. Meets every Wednesday. Blackhawk Country Club, 599 Blackhawk Club Drive, 711 Silver Lake Drive, Danville. Info: sanramonvalleyrotary.com. Danville Lions Club 7pm. Meets the ﬁrst Wednesday at the Alamo Grill, 3160 Danville Blvd, Alamo, CA 94507. Visitors Welcome. Information: Truman Howard 925-787-2565 truman.howard@ gmail.com Exchange Club of San Ramon Valley 12pm. Meets the second Wednesday of every month. Sign-in and social time begins at 11:30. Guests are welcome with lunch reservations. Faz Restaurant, 600 Hartz Ave., Danville. RSVP 925-275-2412. Info: www.srvexchangeclub.org 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.

The Valley SenTinel

page 13

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.

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.

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.

Parkinson’s Disease Support Group 9am-12pm. Meets every 3rd Saturday. Join us to share, laugh, and learn from each other. Grace Presbyterian Church, 2100 Tice Valley Blvd., Walnut Creek. Contact Gregg Riehl at 925-254-8349 or jgriehl@ gmail.com. Free. All are welcome. Information: Howard Zalkin at 939-4210 or Ronnie Wanetick at 933-6357.

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. Danville Women’s Club 11am – 1pm. Meets third Thursdays of each month. Socializing begins at 11 a.m., with lunch following at 11:30, and a guest speaker at noon. 11-1, 242 Linda Mesa. Call Karen at 925-831-9237 for reservation. San Ramon Valley Newcomers 11:30am-2pm. Meets the third Thursday of every month with a featured guest speaker at a local Tri-Valley restaurant. New and long-time adult residents are welcome. Reservations/information: susansgotbling@sbcglobal.net or www.srvnc.com. Rotary Club of San Ramon 11:45am. Meets every Thursday. Crow Canyon Country Club, 711 Silver Lake Drive, Danville. Information: sanramonrotary.org. San Ramon Valley Kiwanis Club Thursday at Noon. Black Bear Diner, 807 Camino Ramon, Danville. www.kiwanis-srv.org Clutterers Anonymous 7-8pm. Meets the 2nd and 4th Thursday of every month. St. Luke’s Lutheran Church Room 3,   2 491 San Miguel Drive,   Walnut Creek. Information: 925-736-8627. Diablo Valley Lions Club 7:30pm. Meets the 1st, 3rd, and 4th Thursday of every month. 1400 Montego Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: diablovalleyca.lionwap. org. Fridays: Transitions-“Navigating Life’s Turning Points Together” 9-11:30am. Our group now has a new name, which has been changed from TENS to Transitions. Our mission is to encourage and support women from empty nest, to aging parents and everything in between. Community Presbyterian Church, Room 116, 222 W. El Pintado Rd., Danville. Information: Contact Donna Hill at hillmom3@ comcast.net

Danville Veteran Service Organizations 8am-11am Every Saturday at Veterans Memorial Building of San Ramon Valley – in Danville – the VSOs jointly host a “Veterans Coffee Social” from 8AM until 11AM… Bring a friend or fellow Veteran and show them the museum - share some social time. Drop In - no reservations – all Veterans welcome… stop for a few minutes - or stay for hours! WW II Vet & Senior Docent Art Gaskins has pastries waiting for you! Please share information about our VMB /SRV Military Museum & Library open daily M-F from 9-3 and it’ Sundays: Cars n Coffee: First Sunday of Every Month 8-10am. On the first Sunday of every month, automotive enthusiasts gather in the parking lots of the Blackhawk Museum to share their vehicles and admire the other fabulous classic cars, hot rods, sports cars, exotics and anything else with wheels and a motor that promotes the car enthusiast hobby. Cars & Coffee is a year round event, rain or shine. The Museum opens at 9am on Cars & Coffee Sundays and there is a Docent-led tour at 2pm. Participating car owners receive two complimentary tickets to the Museum courtesy of our sponsors. Blackhawk Museum, 3700 Blackhawk Plaza Circle, Danville. www. blackhawkmuseum.org

Help Wanted Sr. Enterprise Service Business (ESB) Developer: Bachelor’s in Comp. Eng. or rltd. & 5 yrs. rltd. exp. Bank of the West. Job in San Ramon, CA 94583. CV to careers@ bankofthewest.com. CCAR Reporting Analyst: Master in Finance, Bus. Admin. or rltd. & 2 yrs. exp. in position offered or rltd. CV to: Bank of the West, 2527 Camino Ramon, San Ramon, CA 94583. ATTN: HR or email careers@ bankofthewest.com. EEO. Position in San Ramon, CA.

Community News & Information Danville • Blackhawk Alamo • Diablo • San Ramon Publisher/Editor-Denise Rousset Advertising-Betty Overhoff Chief Financial Ofﬁcer-Jeff Gummere Graphic Designer-Laurie Prindle Auto-David & Judy Colman

925-820-6047

542 San Ramon Valley Blvd., #A Danville, CA 94526

www.valleysentinel.com

page 14

The Valley SenTinel

AUTO March 2009 June 2017

2017 Chrysler Pacifica Touring L Plus By David and Judy Colman

Chrysler’s new AllAmerican minivan is built in Canada and powered by a V6 engine constructed in Mexico. Okay, the stellar 9-speed automatic transmission is a product of the USA, as is the design thinking that went into this quintessentially American vehicle. Until now, the company used the Town & Country nameplate for its minivan, a designation first applied to Chrysler’s wood-sided luxury sedans of the 1940s. However, Chrysler decided to jettison the iconic brand moniker this year in favor of Pacifica, a nameplate previously used on an unsuccessful crossover. Thankfully, the new Pacifica is good enough to merit renaming the franchise. No Town & Country could match the performance of this newest minivan. U n d e r t h e Pa c i f i c a ’s abbreviated snout lies a very lively Pentastar V6 with variable valve timing for all 24 valves. This engine produces

287hp and 262lb.-ft. of torque which yields 8 second times for the 0-60mph run, and supports a tow rating of 3,600lbs. The 9-speed automatic is a faultless accomplice to the van’s mission, providing imperceptibly smooth upshifts and downshifts. A circular gear controller on the face of the dash to the right of the steering wheel is conveniently angled for use and works much better than the similar control Ford uses in its Fusion sedan. The Pacifica’s transmission lacks either paddle shifts or a method of controlling individual gear changes. EPA estimates for fuel consumption peg the V6 at 22MPG overall, which is remarkably good for an 8-person family hauler weighing 4,535lbs, If you decide to opt for the Hybrid Pacifica segment first - overall engine output drops to 260hp and you lose the rear row of seating in favor of battery storage. But the Hybrid van will run 30 miles on an electric charge before the V6 needs to kick in.

Chrysler has been perfecting van layout for so long that the Pacifica serves as a model of good design work. The rearmost Stow n’ Go seats flip and fold flat instantly, a transformation that opens an enormous storage cavity of 66 cubic feet. Likewise, the second row Stow n’ Go captain’s chairs easily flip and fold themselves out of the way, transforming the interior into a virtual pickup bed with carpet on the floor and a roof overhead. We inserted a mountain bike into the buttoned down interior and found so much room that we didn’t even need to stow the second row seats to accommodate the bike. Overnight camping in this van poses no space problems. The remote door opening procedure exemplifies just how well Chrysler is attuned to owner needs. Both sliding side doors are heavy and cumbersome if you operate them by hand. We recognized this difficulty before realizing that the keyfob remote can be

valleysentinel.com

used to automatically open or close either door with a double punch of the appropriate button. Similarly, the rear gate lifts and shuts by remote, or by a kick gesture under the back bumper. You can even stop and start the engine using the same keyfob remote control. Life with a Touring level Pacifica could not be easier - provided you select the “Hands Free Doors and Liftgate Package” for an extra $795. Chrysler also appended a pricey ($1,995) “Advanced SafetyTec Group” which brings a lot of unwanted noise and annoyance to the cockpit environment. We managed to mute most of the bells and whistles incurred by front and rear park assist, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and parallel and perpendicular park assist, but we certainly wouldn’t opt for this expensive and unnecessary bevy of intrusive nannies on our own Pacifica. One worthwhile option box we would tick, however, is $895 for the optional “Tire and Wheel Group.” This selection bolts a handsome set of 7.5”x18” satin silver painted

alloys to all 4 corners instead of the standard 17” wheels. These uprated rims carry Michelin Premier A/S tires measuring 235/60R18. With a van this heavy, and capable of carrying substantial loads of people or goods, you definitely want premium rubber at all four contact patches. These Michelins, in consort with a well tuned suspension system, get the job done with precision and dispatch. However, be forewarned that Pacifica comes with no spare wheel and tire. If you have a flat, the provided tire inflator kit will have to suffice in an emergency. 2017 CHRYSLER PACIFICA TOURING L PLUS ENGINE: 3.6 liter Pentastar V6, 24 Valves with VVT HORSEPOWER: 287hp TORQUE: 262lb.-ft. FUEL CONSUMPTION: 18MPG City/28MPG Highway PRICE AS TESTED: $43,445 HYPES: Ultra Convenient Features, Superb Comfort GRIPES: Needless Optional Nannies STAR RATING: 9.5 Stars out of 10

With over 20 Pacificas SIMPLE SAVINGS TO CELEBRATE to choose from, Walnut Creek CJDR JEEP’S 75TH ANNIVERSARY! is your go-to

Chrysler Dealer!

View our inventory at walnutcreekcjdr.com and schedule your test drive appointment today by calling 925-937-5060 or emailing walnutcreekcjdr@steadauto.com!

Regular Sales Business Hours: M-F 8:30am – 8:00pm Sat 8:30am – 6:00pm Sun 10:00am – 6:00pm

2404 N. Main St Walnut Creek, CA 94596 925-937-5060

valleysentinel.com

Local high school graduates honored at military “swearing-in ceremony”

Graduates entering military service from high schools in the San Ramon Valley were honored at a special “Swearing-In” ceremony held at the Veterans Memorial Building in Danville on Saturday, May 27. They were welcomed by the keynote speaker, Captain Nathan Moore of the US Coast Guard, who said that it was an honor to recognize these young men and women who have volunteered to serve their country in the branches of the military that they have chosen. He then called up each group of new recruits to stand and recite the Oath of Enlistment for their respective branch of service. These enlistees are entering the US Navy: Joseph Urban from Amador Valley High School Shannon Giles from San Ramon Valley High School Connor Salazar from Granada High School Bradyn Fellows from Granada High School Aaron Gnagy from Amador Valley High School Srujanalaskshmi Maddali from Dublin High School These enlistees are entering the US Marine Corps: Nguyen Tran from Monte Vista High School Trevor Poole from Monte Vista High School Andy Munozvillatoro from California High School Jacob Souther from California High School Andrew Velasquez from California High School These enlistees are entering the US Air Force: Lolita Komleva from Dougherty Valley High School Robert Chambers from San Ramon Valley High School Luke Bergin from Foothill High School This enlistee is entering the US Army: Devon Warrington from California High School Two graduates were also recognized who are entering US Military Acadamies: Jae Young Kim from Dougherty Valley High SchoolUS Naval Academy Michael Leonard from California High SchoolUS Air Force Academy

June 2017

The valley Sentinel

Vacation House Check By Fred Hubner

Did you ever find yourself two hours into a vacation and both you and your companion wonder whether or not you locked the front door? Or maybe you think you forgot to lock the car in your driveway? Perhaps you just heard your neighbor’s son was having a beer party for one hundred of his wildest friends…. Certainly there is no guarantee that nothing will happen while you are enjoying your vacation, but here is an easy opportunity to lower the chance that your unlived-in, but loveable home, will be safe while you are gone.

Asking your neighbors to keep an eye open is by far the best idea. However, the Danville Police Department has a program called “Vacation House Check” which can help lower the risk of any problems. You simply register for this plan either by visiting the Police Department, giving them a call, or it also can be done online. Go to www. ci.danville.ca.us and click on Police, Community Services and Programs, Vacation House Check. Simply fill in the form, click submit, and you will be registered. Once your request is in the system, during your vacation your house will be checked for unlocked doors and other

page 15

possibilities of problems. The fact that a police car and an officer is seen visiting your house, or patrolling the area, may defer a break-in or vandalism. The house and yard will be visited as often as possible while you are gone, and a number of police patrols can occur. By the way, stop your newspaper, your mail, dry cleaning deliveries, etc. Remember that a porch light on during the daylight hours, combined with closed window coverings – and a pile of old newspapers sitting in your driveway – announce the fact that you are not at home. You don’t want that message to be seen by all who pass by. Register for a Vacation House Check – and enjoy a safe vacation!

A cautionary message from the Danville Police Department :

Dear Resident: We understand that there may be circumstances for the oversight checked below. However, during 2017 many crimes in Danville were those of opportunity. Most of them could have been prevented if simple care had been taken. We feel the item checked Dear Resident: We understand that there may be circumstances for the oversight checked below However, could haveduring invited an incident at your home. Thank you for your care in the future. below. 2017 many crimes in Danville were those of opportunity. Most of them could have been prevented if simple care had been taken. We feel the item checked below could have invited an incident at your home. Thank you for your care in the future.

IF I WERE A THIEF IF I WERE A THIEF ON:______________ AT:_______ am/pm

ON:______________ AT:_______ am/pm

I WOULD HAVE SELECTED YOUR HOUSE BECAUSE:

I WOULD HAVE SELECTED YOUR HOUSE BECAUSE: YOUR GARAGE DOOR WAS OPEN 

 



An open garage door is an invitation to a thief to take anything he sees. YOUR GARAGE DOOR WAS OPEN

An open garage door is an invitation to a thief to take anything he sees.

VALUABLES WERE VISIBLE ON YOUR PROPERTY Unattended valuables present a temptation for thieves. VALUABLES WERE VISIBLE ON YOUR PROPERTY

Unattended valuables present a temptation for thieves.

NEWSPAPERS OR MAIL WERE COLLECTING IN FRONT OF YOUR HOUSE NEWSPAPERS OR MAIL WERE COLLECTING IN When gone for an extended time, always have someone check on your home

FRONT OFallYOUR HOUSE and pick up deliveries.

When gone for an extended time, always have someone check on your home and pick up all deliveries.

YOUR WINDOWS, DOORS OR GATES WERE OPEN Never leave a door or window open when gone.

YOUR WINDOWS, DOORS OR GATES WERE OPEN

Never leave a door or window open gone. For a free HOME SECURITY CHECK or to help when organize a NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH on your street call the Danville Police Department at (925) 314-3410 and ask for the Safety Officer.  OTHER _________________________________ FROGS from page 1

BY:__________________________________ mixture of detritus, bacteria, Predators include raccoons,

and algae. Metamorphosis snakes, egrets, herons, reptiles, as part of movie soundtracks. usually follows in two to two and mammals. They may live and one half months later, up to nine years in captivity. Males For producea free several call SECURITY HOME CHECK or to help organize a types. Females lay their eggs however some may delay The Pacific Tree Frog was NEIGHBORHOOD street call the Danville changing on up your to five months named the statePolice amphibian of in clumps of 10 to 90, usually WATCH Department at (925) 314-3410 and ask for the Safety of Washington. It is attached to vegetation or leaf later as an adaptive strategy the StateOfficer. litter in the breeding pools. to fire in the ecosystem. As the a keystone species in all the Pacific Tree Frog eggs may be tadpoles develop legs during regions it is found. James M. Hale is a wildlife consumed by Rough-Skinned final transformation, they Newts and other amphibians. change from an herbivorous biologist, ethnobiologist, and Within one to three weeks the diet to a carnivorous one. As ecological consultant. Please tadpoles will hatch to feed adults, their diets consists of visit his website at www. on pollen, algae, diatoms, spiders, beetles, flies, ants, dochale.com. and periphyton, which is a insects, and arthropods.

Change is a

beautiful thing.

DANVILLE

1901 Camino Ramon 925-866-6164 CAMPBELL 930 West Hamilton Ave. 408-871-8890 CORTE MADERA 801 Tamalpais Dr. 415-924-6691 MOUNTAIN VIEW 141 El Camino Real 650-964-7212 SAN CARLOS 1123 Industrial Road 650-508-8317

When it’s time for a change in your home decor, bring your unwanted items to us. We’ll preview and price your items to sell quickly, generating room in your home and cash in your pocket. And you might just find that perfect treasure in our HUGE ever-changing showroom!

www.thehomeconsignmentcenter.com

DIABLO MOTORS

SALES • BROKERAGE • CONSIGNMENT • SERVICE • DETAIL

Celebrate Dads & Grads!

Still the ONLY Diamond Certified Car Dealership in the East Bay!

“SUMMER BRAKE” Special Includes: Free Synthetic Oil Service (Value $145) with any complete brake job, front or rear.

$27,900

$34,900

2013 BMW 335i Hrdtp Cnvrt+Prem 2016 BMW 428i Hrdtp Cnvrt+Sport VIN: WBADX7C52DJ590373

VIN: WBA3V7C50G5A25671

$12,900 2004 BMW Z4 2.5i Cnvrt VIN: 4USBT33584LR68399

Good through 6/30/17

$299 SPRING CLEANING Includes: -Interior and exterior cleaning -Clay bar and wax exterior -Detail engine compartment

$36,900 2015 BMW X5 xDrive35i AWD VIN: 5UXKR0C53F0P03847

$28,900 2014 BMW X3 xDrive28i AWD VIN: 5UXWX9C56E0D35497

$29,900 2015 Jeep Wrangler Unltd. S 4X4 VIN: 1C4BJWDG3FL532382

Larger/Dirtier vehicles extra Good through 6/30/17

Call (925) 830-8747 for an appointment today!

$28,900 2014 Mercedes E350 Sport Sedan VIN: WDDHF5KB3EA838141

$24,900 2013 BMW 535i M-Sport Sedan VIN: WBAFR7C58DC817816

$27,900 2013 BMW 335i Sprt, Prem, Nav VIN: WBA3A9G50DNP36507

2067 San Ramon Valley Blvd, San Ramon www.diablomotors.com (925) 830-8747