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SPOTLIGHT
Montair Elementary principal named national “20 to Watch” Education Technology Leader The National School Boards Association’s (NSBA) Technology Leadership Network (TLN) announced that Adam Welcome, Principal of Montair Elementary in Danville is one of “20 to Watch” honorees for 2015-2016. He is one of 20 education leaders from across the country who are being recognized for their ability to inspire colleagues to explore and embrace innovative
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Mt. Diablo’s peregrine falcon nesting sites will be off limits to hikers through July 31. This includes the Castle Rock area near Walnut Creek, so the rock formations are closed to the public. Access is often gained through East Bay Regional Parks Stage Road Trail through Castle Rock Park. Signs are posted. (See article page 11.)
Meet the Burrowing Owl (Athene cunicularia) By James Hale
The Burrowing Owl (Athene cunicularia) may be found in open landscapes throughout Canada, and North and South America. Grasslands, rangelands, deserts, agricultural areas, and dry open space with low vegetation are preferred habitats of this small, longlegged owl. In many Neotropical countries, they are widespread and common. Deforestation has allowed them to spread in some regions bordering the Amazon Rainforest. The Western Burrowing Owl (Athene cunicularia hypugaea) is a subspecies of special concern in California and throughout much of its range in the western United States of America. It is threatened in Colorado and Mexico, and endangered in Canada. Birds that breed in Canada and the northern United States of America usually migrate south during the winter months to avoid inclement
weather. Loss of habitat due to sprawling housing tracts, light industrial complexes, “power shopping centers”, and other uses have seriously threatened populations in Contra Costa County and throughout their range. Secondary poisoning from ingesting poisoned rodents is another problem affecting local populations. Control programs for prairie dogs and ground squirrels, and loss of habitat are the major causes for declining populations in North America. The Burrowing Owl has adapted to its open grassland habitat by developing long legs for pursuing prey. Beetles in the family Tenebrionidae, such as the Darkling Beetle (Eleodes armata), are local favorites because of their large size. The Potato Bug or Jerusalem Cricket (Stenopelmatus fuscus)
is another desired food that provides a massive meal. The undigestable hard parts from the exoskeletons of these prey, such as the jaws, legs, and wing elytras, are regurgitated in the owls pellets and reveal insight to their diet. Most of their hunting is from dusk until dawn, when they use their night vision and keen hearing to their advantage. However unlike most owls, they are often active during the day, and will wait on a perch until they spot their prey. Their flight is low and undulating, and sometimes they will hover like a kestrel before diving on their prey. A wide variety of invertebrates, including termites, scorpions, and crickets, comprise about one third of their diet. Small vertebrates, such as mice, lizards, frogs, toads, and even
birds make up the other two thirds of their food. Unlike other owls, they also eat fruits and seeds, such as the prickly pear and cholla. Adult burrowing owls are boldly spotted and barred, while juveniles lack markings on their breast and are buffy below. Both adults and juveniles have bright eyes, prominent white eyebrows and a white “chin” patch which they expand and display during certain behaviors, such as bobbing of the head and body
This month’s Special Section:
Spring Home & Garden pages 8-9
See OWLS page 5
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT dining out • music • art • theater • fun events
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The Valley Sentinel
March 2016 themselves and their families. Museum of the San Ramon Valley, 205 Railroad Ave., Danville. museumsrv.org
Percussion Discussion Now - March 19 Featuring percussionist Ken Bergmann with his smashing spectacle of drums, cowbells, chairs and more, Percussion Discussion incorporates instruments from around the globe. This popular family-oriented show features a hysterical romp through the sound effects of Hollywood, a unique look at the computer age, all the flash one would expect from a drummer gone amok and for no apparent reason, a cymbal clanging monkey. $9. Margaret Lesher Theatre, 1601 Civic Dr, Walnut Creek., www. lesherartscenter.org
55” Sea Level Rise Now – April 23 Exhibit of photography and paintings that address sea level rise around the world. Village Theater Art Gallery, 233 Front Street, Danville. www. villagetheatreshows.com Now - May 15 The Art of Survival Enduring the Turmoil of Tule Lake After the bombing of Pearl Harbor the Federal Government assembled over 120,000 Japaneseamericans from the western United States into ten internment camps. The largest and most historically significant of these camps was the Tule Lake Segregation Center in Northern California. It was the only internment camp designated as a “segregation center.” Tule Lake housed over 18,000 internees, many of whom were considered “disloyal” due to attempts to protest their incarceration and internment. For this reason, Tule Lake was a hotbed of political resistance and a profound example of the Japaneseamericans’ struggle to protect
Now - March 20 My Hero! Through the eyes of contemporary artists, My Hero! explores the enigmatic and iconic world of superheroes, and the staying power of these extraordinary characters. Bedford gallery, Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr. Walnut Creek. Information: (925) 295-1417 or www.bedfordgallery.org.
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Young at Art March 17 3:45-5pm. Glaciers and Oceans! We’ll create a 3D glacier and ocean pop-up and orca whale water color and more! $15 residents, $18 non-residents. Village Theater, 233 Front Street, Danville. www. villagetheatreshows.com
Diablo Ballet March 17 6:30pm. Celebrate Diablo Ballet’s ONE NIGHT ONLY 22nd Anniversary Performance featuring Tears from Above by renowned dance maker Val Caniparoli, Serenade pour Cordes et Corps by dynamic award-winning Canadian choreographer Sonya Delwaide, the romantic pas de deux and finale from La Fille Mal Gardée, and a breathtaking World Premiere by Robert Dekkers in collaboration with filmmaker, Walter Yamazaki. $52 - $54. Discount ticket types are available for Youth 17 and under and Groups of 10 or more. Hofmann Theatre, 1601 Civic Dr, Walnut Creek. www.lesherartscenter.org Grannie’s Bedtime Stories 6: Grannie Gets Her Kicks! March 18 - 20 2pm and 7:30pm. Nobody can fracture a fairy tale like Grannie! This time, she tells her grandchildren the stories of The Princess and the Pea, Chicken Little, and Hansel and Gretel in her own unique way. Leave
valleysentinel.com it up to Grannie to make an old story new again! $8-10. Village Theater, 233 Front Street, Danville. www. villagetheatreshows.com March 18 - April 2 Bloody Murder Mystery, mayhem and comedy abound in this whodunnit spoof by Ed Sala, directed by Edwin Peabody. It’s Agatha Christie meets Pirandello, as characters rebel against their author in this whodunit spoof. General admission $16, Seniors $12, Students $10. Thursdays, Bargain Price $10. Martinez Campbell Theatre 636 Ward Street, Martinez. Onstagetheatre.homestead. com or (925) 518-3277.
Dixieland Jazz March 19 1:30-4:30pm. On the 3rd Saturday of every month you can enjoy the music of the Devil Mountain Jazz Band. Bring your own beverages, snacks and a friend or two! There is a large dance floor and lots of free parking. $15. Grange Hall, 743 Diablo Road, Danville. Information visit www.jazznut.com or phone 625-2707. Community Jazz Concert Series - Kenny Washington & Trio March 19 8pm. Kenny is one of the best male jazz vocalists working today, with a 4-octave range, beautiful phrasing, and scatting. He is a Bay Area treasure. Featuring John R. Burr on piano, Ron Belcher on bass, & Alan Hall on drums. $25 tickets are available at brownpapertickets.com or at the door. Peace Lutheran Church, 3201 Camino Tassajara, Danville. 925735-1226. Textbook Classics March 20 4pm. In a program of time honored classics, the California Symphony
is proud to present two of our principal players: Jerome Simas (principal clarinet who also holds a chair as bass clarinet at San Francisco Symphony) and Doug Brown (principal bassoon and Julliard alum) in a double concerto that is technically demanding and rarely performed. Leif Bjaland will be the guest conductor. Tickets start at $42. Hofmann Theatre, 1601 Civic Dr, Walnut Creek. www.lesherartscenter.org Pirates of Penzance Singalong March 20 4pm. 2016 is another leap year, so it’s time to celebrate Frederic’s “40th” birthday with a Pirates of Penzance singalong. Dress up like a rough and rowdy pirate, a bumbling British bobby, a modern MajorGeneral, one of his bevy of beautiful daughters, or just a plain and simple 21st century Gilbert & Sullivan aficionado - whatever you choose. $35. Margaret Lesher Theatre, 1601 Civic Dr, Walnut Creek. www. lesherartscenter.org The Saklan School Annual Concert March 24 4:30 pm. The Saklan School presents their annual spring concert. Free. Hofmann Theatre, 1601 Civic Dr, Walnut Creek. www. lesherartscenter.org
Friday Foreign Film Series - Ida March 25 7pm. Join us for an international film series on Fridays. Enjoy exotic locations, interesting thought provoking
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT dining out • music • art • theater • fun events
valleysentinel.com themes and beautiful cinematography. Each movie will be introduced by a local film expert or local personality. Refreshments included in the price of admission. Some of the movies have adult themes. Age 18 and up unless accompanied by a parent or guardian. Ida is a moving and intimate drama about a young novitiate nun in 1960s Poland who, on the verge of taking her vows, discovers a dark family secret dating from the terrible years of the Nazi occupation. Rated PG-13. 80 min. Subtitled in Polish. $10. Front Row Theater (inside the Dougherty Station Community Center), 17011 Bollinger Canyon Rd, San Ramon, (cross street East Branch Pkwy). www. sanramon.ca.gov/parks/ theater. DCMT: Disney’s Mulan March 25 - April 2 2pm and 7:30pm. The Huns have invaded, and it is up to the misfit Mulan and her mischievous dragon sidekick Mushu to save the Emperor! Defying the village matchmaker, Mulan takes up arms and disguises as a boy in order to spare her father from having to serve in the army. As the great battle with the Huns approaches, Mulan must choose between revealing her true identity as a girl, or saving all of China with her clever plan. $8-10. Village Theater, 233 Front Street, Danville. www. villagetheatreshows.com I Love a Piano March 25 – April 3 8:15pm. I Love a Piano is the celebration of the music and lyrics of America’s beloved Irving Berlin. It follows the journey of a piano as it moves in and out of American lives from the turn of the century to the present. Alternately heartbreaking and hilarious, rousing and reflective, this show is a fitting tribute to the man Jerome Kern famously said had ‘no place in American music - he is American music.’ $35. George and Sonja Vukasin Theatre, 1601 Civic Dr, Walnut Creek. www. lesherartscenter.org
March 2016 Metamorphosis presented by Jumpin’ at the Sun Dance Company April 1-2 8pm. Join Jumpin’ at the Sun as they premiere brand new pieces along with favorites from past performances. This show features a broad variety of musical styles from Nina Simone to electronic rock and a blending of several dance techniques from contemporary to ballet to jazz. Sponsored by the San Ramon Arts Foundation. $20-$22. Dougherty Valley Performing Arts Center, 10550 Albion Rd, San Ramon (cross street Bollinger Canyon Rd), located on the Dougherty Valley High School Campus. www. sanramon.ca.gov/parks/ theater. Art, The Tony AwardWinning Comedy by Yasmina Reza April 1 - 30 How much would you pay for a solid white painting? $200,000? Decadeslong friendship? These are
some of the issues at the heart of Yasmina Reza’s award-winning comedy, Art, as three friends find themselves caught at the crossroads of art and friendship. $33 - $53. Center REPertory Company, 1601 Civic Drive in downtown Walnut Creek. www. CenterREP.org or call 925.943.SHOW (7469). Rickshaw Girl presented by Bay Area Children’s Theater April 2-10 A village in Bangladesh, a loving family, and a daring daughter. In Naima’s village, boys can work for pay, but girls are expected to stay home and help with the cooking and the cleaning. Naima desperately wants to help her father earn more money, and she thinks she knows just how to do it. A world premiere. Recommended for age 6 and up. $18 Child, $22 Adults, $20 Seniors, $13 Groups of 15 or more. Front Row Theater (inside the Dougherty Station Community Center),
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17011 Bollinger Canyon Rd, San Ramon, (cross street East Branch Pkwy). www. BACTheatre.org or www. sanramon.ca.gov/parks/ theater.
Walnut Creek First Wednesdays Every first Wednesday through June 2016 5-8pm. Walnut Creek First Wednesdays event 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.
Our apologies for the error in placement of this beautiful photo in the February issue. It was mistakenly paired with an African music event that took place in Dublin. It was actually part of the Journey Around the World exhibit that took place at the Village Theatre Art Gallery in Danville. The photo is titled Tom Lekwale of Wamba in Samburu, Kenya by Mill Valley photographer, Rudi Dundas.
Mark your calendar for the annual Two Day Town and kids age 12 & under are Sentinel nature music festival there is amplified live music writerTheandValley admitted free if they are with East Bay Naturalist
Two Day Town will celebrate its 16th anniversary on April 22-24, 2016, and the event’s leadership team is so grateful for the continued opportunity to provide on Lake Del Valle Regional Park’s west shore an annual family camping experience centered around community music and environmental stewardship. This year’s Two Day Town Mayor is Danville’s Ariella Castillo who has attended Two Day Town since she was just a baby. The last weekend in April brings with it the annual Two Day Town event out at Lake Del Valle in the Ohlone Wilderness south of Livermore. This event is an opportunity for the whole family to enjoy family camping and community music. Over 30 local performing artists will appear this year including national music festival darling Michael McNevin, award winning songwriter, along with a host of other performances on the Main stage, the Amphitheater stage and the Lakeside Café stage on Friday Saturday and Sunday. While
on two stages throughout the day Friday, Saturday and Sunday, the real action happens around individual campsites, where musicians congregate all weekend long for impromptu acoustic jam sessions.
Doc Hale will lead explorers through his “Native America” program to learn about the area’s abundant plant, animal and archaeological life. The Family Activities tables will feature a wide assortment of entertaining
Ariella Castillo (R) seen here performing at 2015’s Two Day Town. She will be the 2016 Town Mayor at this year’s event. Two-Day Town also offers the regular camping-related activities; 67 miles of hiking and horseback riding trail at Lake Del Valle or hiking in the adjoining 9,737-acre Ohlone Regional Wilderness, plus fishing and swimming in Lake Del Valle.
projects, and there will be free massages, morning yoga, and Lesley’s Lakeside Cafe for the perfect formula to a wonderful family weekend. For more information and to purchase advance tickets, visit www. twodaytown.com. There are weekend passes, day passes,
a responsible adult. Your Weekend Pass price covers event admission for three days of music and camping, all planned and unplanned activities, evening music jams, kids activities, use of the beach and swimming areas and other park facilities through Sunday. Single Day Passes entitle guests to the same stuff, but you may not stay overnight within Two Day Town for any reason without upgrading your Pass. The Pass price does not include the per-vehicle charge for park admission at the park entry kiosk. Two Day Town opens for regular admission at 8:00 A.M. on Friday, with on-stage music starting around 5:00 P.M. Passes may be purchased in advance or at the event gate until the site reaches capacity. On admission to the site you will receive a wristband, which must be worn for the duration of the event. Passes are not refundable for any reason. Two Day Town will not be cancelled due to inclement weather. Rain & Shine, we’ll be there.
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The Valley Sentinel
Local families needed for exchange students Cultural Homestay International (CHI) is seeking volunteer local host families for international high school boys and girls. These students are 15 to 18 years of age and are coming to this area for the upcoming high school year or semester. These personable and academically select exchange students are conversant in English, bright, curious and anxious to learn about the country through living as part of a family, attending high school and sharing their own culture and language with their newly adopted host family. The exchange students arrive from their home country shortly before school begins
and return at the end of the school year or semester. Each Cultural Homestay International student is fully insured, brings his or her own personal spending money and expects to contribute to his or her share of household responsibilities, as well as being included in normal family activities and lifestyles. The students are well screened and qualified by CHI. Families can choose their students from a wide variety of backgrounds, nationalities and personal interests. Please visit our website, www.chinet.org or call 1-877737-0409 for more information about becoming a host family.
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March 2016
Advertorial
Life Saving Benefits In Colorectal Cancer Screening Tests By Dr. K. Kenneth Chao
A consistent wisdom in maximizing the chance of curing any form of cancer is if you catch it early, you have the best possibility of success. This is the basic idea behind cancer screening: to catch it early, before symptoms from the cancer occur. While not all cancers lend themselves to be screened easily, colorectal cancer is one that can be because of its predictable progression from pre-cancerous polyps to malignant tumors. Cancer Screening Techniques The simplest forms of colorectal cancer screening are stool-based tests. This includes guaiac and immunohistochemical tests that detect presence of fecal hemoglobin. While simple to perform, compliance may be low due to need for dietary restrictions in some forms of the test. Another drawback with this test is that by itself, the test is not very sensitive
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computed tomography (CT), which can render a virtual reconstruction of the colon as well as any tumors or polyps within. However, these procedures still require adequate preparation of the colon, and an actual direct endoscopy will still need to be done if an abnormality is identified for the purpose of obtaining biopsies. Recent studies have substantiated the benefit of colorectal screening in reducing fatality rates from these types of cancers. In order for screening to work, the population at large must understand the benefits of these tests. Hopefully, with improved awareness and better public knowledge about these procedures, along with their associated risks and benefits, more lives may be saved as we promote dedicated compliance with these screening tests. Dr. Chao is a board certified Radiation Oncologist with Epic Care, a group of experts in the diagnosis and comprehensive treatment of cancer and blood disorders. www.epic-care.com
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and requires follow-up with additional testing for any abnormal results. The “gold-standard” for colorectal cancer screening involves the direct visualization of the intestine via endoscopy. There are two forms of endoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, in which the endoscopic camera is passed into the latter half of the colon, or colonoscopy, which reaches into the entire colon. These endoscopic procedures are useful not only in diagnosing malignant tumors, but they are useful in identifying pre-cancerous polyps and removing them before development of actual cancerous lesions. Future Directions To avoid the invasiveness of direct endoscopies, specialized cameras that are the size and form of medicine pills have been developed. These cameras can be swallowed and allow visualization of the colon without the discomfort of traditional sigmoidoscopies or colonoscopies. Another method of visualizing the colon is the use of
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One of the most frustrating problems I face in my holistic practice is the resistance of my patients to realize the importance of their participation in their cure. They have been cheated to believing the drug commercials on TV. ‘If you tell the doctor about our drug and get it, you will be better.’ For one, if you have to tell a doctor about a drug, what’s going on? Isn’t the doctor supposed to be the one to come up with the treatment? What must be realized is that, if you want to feel wonderful health, it’s up to you. You actually have more control over your health than anyone. One of the most important factors is your diet, especially if you have any condition that an ending in “itis”. The suffix “itis”, attached to an organ, means that body part is inflamed. Arthritis,
sinusitis, bursitis and many more diseases are very responsive to dietary changes. Eating inflammatory foods is like throwing gasoline on a fire called inflammation. If you have an inflammatory disease and the doctor doesn’t inquire about your diet, find another doctor. Drugs might cover up the symptom of your disease, but changing your contribution to the disease is imperative to the cure. One of my frustrations is that many of my older patients are led to believe that so many problems are due to their age. They accept this and won’t give up the “treats” that are destroying their health. The younger patients sometimes think that they are invincible and won’t give a care about what will happen. I have been in this field for forty years and I can tell you that without an anti-inflammatory diet, you will have problems. One big reason is that stress can cause inflammation and your body must have theammunition to fight back. Stress plus a
beer and some fried foods, followed by ice cream means inflammation and disease. Some top inflammatory foods are sugar, processed grains, cake, pastries, trans fats, dairy products, corn syrup, vegetable oils, fried foods, fast foods, fruit juices, cereals, French fries and almost anything processed. The healthiest humans eat only what nature gives them. Because the farming industry cannot provide us with complete nutrition in our food, plus not having access to many natural foods, supplementation is necessary. Add polluted air and water and we have a battle ahead. Proper supplements will help the fight, but all of us should help to stop unnecessary challenges to our health and our environment. At Advanced Oral Diagnosis & Treatment Center in Danville we specialize in TMJ/TMD treatment and Oral Appliances for Sleep Apnea. For a free Consultation, call the office at 925-837-8048, or visit our website at www.aodtc.com.
valleysentinel.com
March 2016
The Valley Sentinel
Advertorial
Golfer’s Elbow Got You Feeling Sub-Par? By Dr. Niele Maimone, DC
What is Golfer’s Elbow? Golfer’s elbow, or medial epicondylitis, is similar to its counterpart, Tennis elbow. The primary differences between these conditions are the location of the pain and the activity that leads to injury. However, both conditions are caused by overuse of the muscles and tendons of the forearm, leading to inflammation and pain around the elbow joint, commonly called tendonitis. Golf is one common cause of tendonitis, but many other sports and work related activities can cause the same problem. The cause of golfer’s elbow can vary from a single violent action (acute injury) to, more commonly, a repetitive stress injury where an action is performed repeatedly and pain gradually develops. In an acute injury of the elbow inflammation occurs without substantial tissue damage. However in a repetitive stress situation a person may experience OWLS from page 1 when disturbed or agitated. They have a flattened facial disc and lack ear tufts. Males and females are similar in size and appearance, with females tending to be slightly heavier and males having longer linear measurements. Burrowing Owls are slightly larger than an American Robin and may live at least nine years in the wild. Captive birds exceed more than ten years in longevity. Some owls are killed by vehicles when crossing roads or while foraging for prey. Feral or domestic dogs and cats, coyotes, badgers, raptors and snakes are a few of their many natural enemies. When threatened, Burrowing Owls will bob up and down, and some will retreat to their burrow and hiss, chatter, and rattle like a rattlesnake, a behavior known as acoustic Batesian mimicry, an effective defensive strategy against potential danger. Burrowing Owls begin nesting in March or April in Contra Costa County, and continue through June. Natural underground burrows or ground squirrel
damage to the tendon and surrounding soft tissue causing tissue degeneration over time. Inflammation from acute injury often responds quickly to rest and anti-inflammatory treatment. However, if the injury is due to tendon tissue degeneration, treatment will be longer and will be focused on improving the strength of the tendon as well as rebuilding tissues. Golfer’s Elbow Symptoms With golfer’s elbow pain is on the inside of the elbow, usually during or after intense use. Typically the pain increases during wrist flexion or pronation and often radiates to the forearm. Because this frequently occurs in golfers, it has become known as “golfer’s elbow”. However, it is also known as “pitcher’s elbow”. Treatment for Golfer’s Elbow Golfer’s elbow does not usually cause any longterm disability. However, the condition may become stubborn and proper rehabilitation will help alleviate the symptoms and get you back to life again. burrows that they renovate are used for nesting. Manmade structures like pipes or conduits are sometimes used as nest sites. If necessary, the owls may excavate their own burrows if none are available. A wide variety of materials are used to line their nest. The most common is mammal dung, usually from cattle, which helps to control the microclimate inside the burrow and to attract insects, which provide food for the owls. The female will lay one or two eggs a day until she completes her clutch of from 4 to 12 eggs. Usually 9 eggs comprise a clutch. The female will incubate her eggs for three or four weeks while the male brings her food. Both parents feed the chicks after the eggs hatch. Even though most of the eggs will hatch, only four to five chicks usually survive to leave the nest. The destruction of prairie dog towns and ground squirrel colonies throughout the western states have led to Western Burrowing Owl population declines. The catastrophic loss of habitat, secondary poisoning, and feral dogs
Rest and Reduce Inflammation: The first step a person should take if tendinitis is suspected is to stop the activities that cause the pain and inflammation in this case, rest the arm. Use a topical cream containing Arnica to begin to reduce the inflammatory process quickly. Laser Therapy to Heal the Damaged Tissue: Ending the pain caused by golfer’s elbow requires healing the damaged tissue. Class IV laser therapy is an excellent method for this, because it is presently the only form of therapy that can both reduce inflammation and heal tissue simultaneously. Laser treatments at Align Healing Center are done with the K-laser CUBE a Class IV Laser. This laser does not cut or burn but is gently absorbed by the tissue. During Laser Therapy the infrared laser light interacts with tissues at the cellular level, increasing metabolic activity and improving the transport of nutrients across the cell membrane. This initiates the production of cellular energy (ATP) that leads to a cascade of beneficial effects, increasing cellular function and health. This creates an
optimal healing environment that reduces inflammation, swelling, muscle spasms, stiffness, scar tissue and pain. Correct the Mechanics of Motion: Assessing the forearm, elbow, shoulder and spine for proper postural feedback is done to diagnose and correct improper alignment. After proper alignment is restored specific muscular taping is applied to improve circulation and insure proper motion on a daily basis. Lastly, specific strengthening and stretching exercises are given. By strengthening the muscles and tendons involved with golfers’ elbow, you can prevent the problem from returning.
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At Align Healing Center we are having great success treating golfer’s elbow, tennis elbow, plantar fasciitis, sciatica, shoulder and neck pain, migraines, arthritis, carpal tunnel, post surgical pain, sports injuries and more; even long-term residual pain. Arthritis and degenerative disc disease sufferers can see long term benefits from this treatment without any of the negative side effects experienced with the long term use of medications. Dr. Niele Maimone, DC is the owner and founder of Align Healing Center in Danville, CA. She has been active in our natural health & wellness community since 1999. For more information or to set up a consult call 925.362.8283 or visit www. alignhealingcenter.com.
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and cats further contribute to their decline. Eastern Contra Costa County is the last stronghold for the Burrowing Owl where they still may be fairly common in the flat grasslands and disturbed areas with fencerows for perching, around the Byron Airport, Clifton Court Forebay, around the edges of agricultural fields, and on levees and berms. The Burrowing Owl has been given Second Priority Status as a California Bird Species of Special Concern. The longterm future of the Burrowing Owl in Contra Costa County appears to be at best bleak and a worst terminal. James M. Hale is a wildlife biologist, ethnobiologist and ecological consultant based in Contra Costa County. Visit his website at www.dochale.com.
page 6
The valley Sentinel
March 2016
valleysentinel.com
Advertorial
How to Gift $25M to Heirs without Estate Taxes By Robert Cucchiaro spouses X 9 beneficiaries = $252K per year without any gift tax. If you employed this strategy for the next 10 years you would have gifted away $2.5M without any gift taxes due. 2. Each person can leave up to $5.45M to their heirs, either at death or during their lifetime, and owe no estate or gift tax. This means a married couple could gift almost $11M to their heirs and owe no estate or gift taxes. While these concepts are important enough, they gain even more meaning when you factor in something called “discounted gifts.” The IRS also allows a thing called discounting, wherein a dollar may be worth less than a dollar when it comes to gifting. Allow me to illustrate this with an example: • Joe & Mary own 50% of ABC Manufacturing
Effective wealth management is about much more than picking the right stocks and bonds for your portfolio. In fact, one of the biggest concerns our clients face has to do with the potential estate taxes that their heirs will owe when they die. As a reminder on how estate & gift taxes work, there are two main concepts to remember: 1. Each person can gift up to $14K per year to as many people as you want to and owe no gift tax. So a married couple with 3 kids and 6 grandkids can give away $252K per year and owe no gift taxes. To break that down, it’s $14K X 2
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Co, an S corporation worth $50M. They own their shares inside of their revocable living trust and want to gift some of their shares to their kids for 2 reasons, first, so that their kids can eventually take over the family business, and second, so that their kids can start to receive some of the profits from the business now as they are in a lower tax bracket than Joe & Mary. • Let’s assume their shares are worth $25M (50% of $50M) and they want to gift 40% to their kids. That gift should be valued at $10M (40% of $25M) which means of their combined lifetime gift limit of $10.9M, they would have used $10M. However, this is where discounting comes in. The IRS allows Joe and Mary to discount the value of those shares by as much as 40% for things like lack of control, lack of marketability, etc. Let’s assume their CPA and estate tax attorney agree that in this case, a 30%
gifting credit which means they still have almost $4M left. Given that the estate tax is 40%, this strategy saved Joe & Mary’s kids and grandkids over $10M in estate taxes! The falling stock market is on everyone’s mind, as are fears of a recession in 2016. Just remember, while falling asset prices may not present a good time to sell assets, they do present a great time to gift them. Robert Cucchiaro is a Certified Financial Planner and a registered tax preparer. He is a Partner and owner of Summit Wealth & Retirement, a financial planning firm that has been serving Danville for 30 years. Rob specializes in retirement, investment, tax, and estate planning. www. summitwealthandretirement. com
Sentinels of Freedom to Honor Local Heroes Celebrating its second annual gala, Sentinels of Freedom, a San Ramonbased non-profit that provides scholarships for severely wounded and injured veterans, has invited local corporations,
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
discount is appropriate. That means their $10M gift only “costs” them $7M as far as their lifetime gifting limit is concerned. Now here’s the fun part. Let’s assume that the $10M gift (40% of the shares of ABC Manufacturing) went into an irrevocable trust that Joe & Mary set up for their kids and grandkids (9 beneficiaries in total). Once inside the trust, assume that the shares of ABC Manufacturing stock grew by 10% per year. Let’s also assume that the Joe & Mary used their annual gifts of $14K per person to fund this same trust and that those giftsamounted to $252K per year and that once invested inside of the trust, and that money grew at 6% per year. In 10 years this irrevocable trust would be worth over $26,000,000 and that money would be estate tax free when Joe & Mary die. The best part is that Joe & Mary would have only used $7M of their lifetime
leaders, and community members to celebrate its local scholarship recipients. Scholarship recipients are called Sentinels in honor of their sacrifice and commitment to guarding America’s freedoms. CEO of the non-profit, Mike Conklin hopes to inspire the Bay Area to support these heroes. “We honor our Sentinels every year and this is an opportunity for the world to hear their stories. When you meet them, hear about their sacrifice, their dreams and hopes, you will understand why they deserve our support,” explains Conklin. The organization boasts more than 200 Sentinels across the nation, but its base of operations in the Bay Area has allowed it access to a wide variety of charitable organizations that also call
the Bay home. In previous years companies like PG&E, Chevron, Franklin Templeton, and Northrop Grumman have sponsored the annual gala choosing to make wounded and injured veterans a top priority. Each year features guests of honor which have included Major General Lawrence Nicholson, US Marines, and Medal of Honor recipient and Sentinel, Corporal Kyle Carpenter, US Marines (ret.). This year attendees will hear from Medal of Honor recipient Master Sergeant Leroy Petry, US Army (ret.) and General Joseph Votel, US Army. For more information about the event including purchasing tickets or sponsorships, please visit www.sentinelsoffreedom. org/2016gala.
valleysentinel.com
March 2016
The valley Sentinel
page 7
Danville Area Chamber of Commerce presents Community awards at Annual State of the Town Luncheon
SRVUSD Announces Teachers hired as a teacher-on-special of the Year assignment focused on literacy. On Tuesday, March 8, 2016, the San Ramon Valley Unified School District’s (SRVUSD) Board of Education recognized Rachael Byron and Joyce Rooks as the 2016-2017 Teachers of the Year. Byron is a high school literacy coach and an Advanced Placement English teacher at Dougherty Valley High School (DVHS) in San Ramon. Rooks is a 3rd grade teacher at Creekside Elementary. Byron and Rooks will represent the San Ramon Valley Unified in the Contra Costa Year Program. “The students in the San Ramon Valley Unified School District are the benefactors of the great teaching that takes place each and every day in our schools. Joyce Rooks and Rachael Byron are exemplars of this commitment to ensuring that all our children receive an excellent education that meets their individual needs. I applaud both of these teachers for the difference that they have made in the lives of hundreds of our students,” said SRVUSD Superintendent Mary Shelton. Byron began her teaching career in 2008 as an English teacher at DVHS. In 2013, she began sharing her knowledge and teaching strategies with colleagues when she was
She continues her work with students by teaching one Advanced Placement English class at DVHS. “Without Rachael’s dedication, incredible work ethic, and intelligent and methodical approach to this project, the DVHS teaching staff would not be as successful as they have been in implementing the new Common Core Standards,” said DVHS Principal Daniel Hillman. “She is relentless in the pursuit of finding new and creative ways to explain the complexities of the new standards to her colleagues. She possesses a true love for lesson design and prides herself in creating exciting and engaging learning opportunities for others.” During her 14 year teaching career, Rooks has worked at multiple schools and in very diverse assignments. She has taught kindergarten, 1st, 2nd and 4th grade at Creekside and Coyote Creek elementary schools. She also spent a number of years as a Computer Applications instructor and Computer Graphic Arts instructor at both California and Dougherty Valley high schools. She currently teaches 2nd grade at Creekside Elementary.
On Thursday February 18, the Danville Area Chamber of Commerce held its State of the Town Address and Community Awards Luncheon at Crow Canyon Country Club. The more than 150 attendees heard a presentation by Danville Mayor Karen Stepper on the State of the Town, with updates on projects in the Town, financial health and more. Mayor Stepper announced that The Town had just won a lawsuit against the State of California’s takeaway of community development funds—“that’s $9.2 million dollars that will not have to be paid to the State from Danville’s General Fund”, she said. “We are again one of the 10 safest mid-sized cities in California!” said Stepper, following with the technology that allows residents to interact, keep a neighborhood watch and communicate with the Town. “Over 10,000 Danville citizens are hooked into their neighborhoods through NextDoor—one of our 8+ social media programs to reach out to you”, she said. Speaking of parks projects, she announced that the Town has just replaced the 2001 artificial turf field at Diablo Vista Park for the second time and finished the project over 2 months ahead of schedule, adding that “Danville Bocce Ball courts are doubling from 4 to 8— and will be opening this spring!” she said. Honored by the Danville Area Chamber of Commerce were Bob Hammer of the Have
Many Contra Costa County residents could qualify for NEW state earned income tax credit significant amount of money
California’s new Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) could benefit 15,000 lowincome workers in Contra Costa County who earned less than $14,000 last year. The challenge now is to make sure they know about it. Governor Brown’s 201516 Budget established the state’s first EITC, designed to complement the federal EITC. With nearly $400 million dollars available through the new state EITC, an estimated $2.3 billion in EITC tax credits is available for Californians. “Most hard-working Contra Costa residents may not be aware that there’s a new state Earned Income Tax Credit, and if they’re earning less than $14,000 a year, they may have never filed taxes before,” said Kathy Gallagher, Director of
Contra Costa Employment and Human Services Department (EHSD). “We’re working to raise awareness about this helpful benefit which can make a big difference for our county’s most vulnerable families.” Workers who earned less than $14,000 per year are eligible to apply for the California EITC, and depending on qualifications and number of dependent children, could receive up to $2,653 in refunds. The average refund statewide is expected to be about $900 per qualifying family. And that’s just for the California tax credit. The federal EITC is for workers earning less than $54,000 per year. Combined, the two tax credits could result in tax returns exceeding $5,000 – a
for families struggling to make ends meet. “The Earned Income Tax Credit lifts more children out of poverty than any other policy. Just a small boost in family income can improve children’s development and school achievement,” said Sean Casey, Executive Director of First 5 Contra Costa. There are free tax preparation sites throughout the county where low-income Contra Costa residents can file their taxes with help from IRS-trained volunteers. To learn more visit www. earnitkeepitsaveit.org or call 211. To see how to qualify for California’s earned income tax credit, visit www.caleitc4me. org.
Danville Police Chief Steve Simkins receives the Danville area Chamber of Commerce Employee of the Year Award a Ball Foundation, for raising millions of dollars toward cancer research and was presented with the Citizen of the Year Award. The Business of the Year Award had double winners this year. Gianni’s Restaurant, and Heritage Bank of Commerce, were Business of the Year co-winners. The Business Person of the Year Award was bestowed upon Richard Delfosse, of Richard’s Arts & Crafts. Terry Delfoss received the award in Richard’s
absence. The Charitable Organization of the Year was awarded to the Lazarex Cancer Foundation of Danville, and Employee of the Year was awarded to Danville Police Chief Steve Simkins, “who leads his officers in being involved in service clubs, schools, veteran, family and community events, police technology, solving crimes, and being approachable to all”, said Mayor Stepper.
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Spring Home & Garden page 8
The valley Sentinel
Keeping it Cool By Steven Wynn, Barry and Wynn Architects Summer heat is fast approaching, and with it the dreaded spike in utility bills. But with a little planning and creative thinking you can keep it cool without breaking the bank. Here are a few improvements you can make that add value to your home, increase comfort, and conserve energy. Growing Shade Smart planting is the most cost effective way to cool your home. Deciduous trees planted on the southeast and southwest side of the house provide summer shade and winter
light. According to the Department of Energy, carefully positioned trees can save up to 25% of the energy a typical household uses. But trees aren’t the only way to cool with landscaping. Too often I see patio concrete pushed right up to the house walls. Besides being unattractive, this concrete reflects and radiates heat right into your home. Cut back the patio and plant drought-tolerant shrubs and bushes instead, being sure to provide proper drainage away from the foundation.
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March 2016 Plants provide evaporative cooling, and create dead air spaces that insulate your home in both winter and summer. Building Shade A trellis can be built at low cost and provide shade where you need it most – right at the house and windows. Who wants to have the shades drawn or blinds closed all summer? Enjoy views of the outdoors without the glare with a simple trellis. For added cooling, staple shade cloth to the top. With proper planning, the trellis can define a furnished, outdoor room, an amenity you will enjoy year-round. Change Your Windows Today’s windows are made for energy efficiency. Most are designed to block heat from conducting through the frame, and offer glazing options that maximize visibility while minimizing heat gain. If your windows are old, it’s time to change them out. You’ve probably heard of insulated and low-e (low emissivity) glass. But did you know that the third generation, low-e3 glass is now available? Low-e3 features three layers of metallic silver on the exterior for the lowest solar
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Before heat gain. There is much to be said about windows, but one simple thing remains true – you get what you pay for. Be sure to check the EPA ENERGY STAR website for a list of “Most Efficient” windows. Best of all, a tax credit is available through the end of 2016, up to $200 for ENERGY STAR® windows and $500 for doors.
After
After A Cool Roof remember most is putting If you’re due to replace my hand on an interior wall, your roof, consider a cool and it was downright hot to roof – literally! A cool roof the touch. Heat had built up is designed to reflect more in the attic and radiated into sunlight and absorb less the interior. A radiant barrier heat than a standard roof. can reduce the transfer of heat The lighter the color, the from the underside of the roof cooler the roof. According to into the attic, but typically the Department of Energy, isn’t enough to keep the attic standard or dark roofs can cool. Consider installing a reach temperatures of 150°F solar-powered attic fan, which or more in the summer sun. reduces the build-up of hot air A cool roof under the same in the attic. conditions could stay more Combine these strategies than 50°F cooler. An existing for maximum cooling effect. shingle roof cannot be made If you can’t do it all at once, into a cool roof. There are cool develop a “Cooling Plan” asphalt shingles you can use for your home that you as a replacement, which use can implement over time – specially coated granules that planting and landscaping now, provide better solar reflectance. replace your windows soon, Metal roofs can be painted, and and replace your roof with a many clay or concrete tiles are cool roof and attic fan when naturally reflective or can be you have to replace the roof treated into cool roof tiles. anyway. And if you have the Vent it Out budget, build a trellis – and During one heat wave think of me when you’re back in 2006, the temperature sipping margaritas under its topped out at 112°F. What I ample shade.
Spring Home & Garden valleysentinel.com
Better Alternatives to Artificial Turf By Sundong Kwong, Certified Green Building Professional
The drought and mandatory water restrictions have many Californian homeowners thinking about replacing their lawn with an artificial turf. At first glance, the water saving is a huge and undisputed benefit. However, there are downsides of artificial turf that the industry is not disclosing. As artificial turf gets warmer, it also “off-gasses” toxic fumes. Most artificial turfs contain ground up rubber which have been proven to cause cancer and other diseases. The toxins in the artificial turf threaten our health through contact and inhalation. Children and pets playing on artificial turf will likely be exposed to these toxins. The toxins can also seep into the soil and eventually end up in streams, water tables, and our water supply systems. Artificial turf retains heat during the day and releases it at night. It creates a “heat island”. When it’s either warm or hot in the summer days, children and pets cannot walk on it barefoot. The increased heat may harm or kill nearby shrubs and trees. The artificial turf blades are also more abrasive than natural grass. It can scrape the skin more easily. Furthermore, artificial turf is not completely maintenance free as it does require water for cleaning every now and then. So, before you install artificial turf, consider the pros and cons carefully. Find out the chemical composition and emission of the materials to make sure they are below acceptable levels. The good news is that there are alternatives to artificial lawns. If you would like to keep the old lawn, it is acceptable to let the lawn go dormant (“brown”) in summer. When winter
comes the lawn will turn green again. Today’s slogan is “Brown Is The New Green!” Avoiding watering in summer results in a substantial saving. Better yet, instead of installing an unhealthy fake turf, convert a lawn to a garden consisting of native and other drought tolerant grasses, shrubs and trees. The old lawn can be removed via a method called “sheet mulching” which is much simpler and more ecological than conventional lawn removal methods using chemical grass killers. The newly installed drought tolerant garden still needs watering and nurturing. But in about two years, the established plants will be able to survive on little or no irrigation in the summer. Over the long run, drought tolerant plants can reduce irrigation requirement by 50% to 75%. Native plants adapt to the hot dry summers by staying dormant. Indeed, it is preferable not to water them during the dormant stage. There are many native and drought tolerant plants that come in different sizes, shapes and colors. Choosing the right plants can bring you a beautiful and ecological landscape. . UC Davis, known for their agricultural research, offers a wealth of resources about native plants. EBMUD offers up to $2500 rebate for drought tolerant landscapes and water efficient irrigation systems. On the other hand, they do not offer rebates for artificial turf. Other water districts also have similar rebate programs. Sundong is a certified green building professional and founder of Green Remodel Forum. To learn more about how to sheet mulch please contact Sundong Kwong at smkwong@ GreenRemodelForum. com or visit http:// greenremodelforum.com
March 2016
The valley Sentinel
March in the Contra Costa Garden By the Contra Costa Master Gardeners March Garden To Dos General Garden Care Check drip systems: replace clogged emitters, filters, repair leaks, uncover sprinkler heads and flush. Fertilize lawns, fruit trees and shrubs if needed once it stops raining and if needed. Citrus will need nitrogen, although it is unavailable to the plants until the soil warms. Fertilize sparingly, using a slow release form— fertilizer run-off is a form of pollution. Nitrogen has been depleted from most soils by the winter/spring rains. Aerate lawns when rains have stopped, top dress with compost. Fruits & Vegetables Plant potato tubers, citrus by the end of the month. Plant herbs—most require full sun and welldrained soil. Plant seeds of beets, carrots, lettuce, radishes, spinach, borage, radicchio. Harvest strawberries. Strawberries need 6 hours of direct light a day to ripen fully.
Check the soil temperature. Soil should be 60°F prior to planting summer crops. Garden soils can be heated using clear or black plastic mulch. Flowers & Landscaping Divide fall blooming perennials. Start summer vegetables and flower seeds. Prune azaleas and camellias that have finished blooming. Fertilize with coffee grounds…it’s a good source of nitrogen and lowers the pH. Plant summer blooming bulbs: Canna, calla lilies, Caladium, Dahlia, Gladiolus, lilies, Nerine, tuberose, tuberous begonia, Tigridia, Watsonia. Plant perennials from 4” pots. Fertilize roses as they begin to leaf out. Alfalfa pellets are a good slowrelease form of nitrogen. Garden Pests & Diseases Wash off spittle bugs if they annoy you—they are primarily a visual nuisance. Wash off aphids before population builds up. Control snails and slugs – handpick, trap or use iron phosphate baits.
page 9
Check for scale crawlers with two-sided sticky tape. Spray with horticultural oil if found. Spray roses for powdery mildew. A simple mixture is 2-4 teaspoons baking soda + 2-4 teaspoons lightweight horticultural oil in 1 gallon of water. Mix well and spray to cover all foliage. Spray apples, pears, loquats with Bordeaux mixture during blossom time for fire blight control. Spray stone fruit (apricots, peaches, plums, cherries, etc.) for brown rot during bloom time. Master Gardeners are trained volunteers for the University of California Cooperative Extension (UCCE). They are residents of local communities who have an active interest in horticulture, have taken the Master Gardener training offered by the UCCE, and now share their knowledge with other members of that community. They provide University of California research-based horticultural information to the citizens of California through their volunteer efforts as Master Gardeners. It is the acquisition of knowledge, the skill in gardening, and giving back to the community that distinguishes a Master Gardener from other gardeners.
Senior Living page 10
valleysentinel.com
March 2016
Did you know that Medicare helps pay for prescription medications? 2. Medicare Advantage addition to your Part B By David Sayen
Even if you don’t take many prescriptions now, you should consider joining a Medicare drug plan. There are two ways to get Medicare prescription drug coverage:
1. Medicare standalone drug plans, also known as Part D plans, add drug coverage to Original Medicare, as well as to some Medicare Cost Plans and Medicare Private Fee-forService plans. You must have Medicare Part A or Part B to join a standalone Part D plan.
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plans and other Medicare health plans often include prescription drugs. Medicare Advantage plans are managed care plans, similar to HMOs or PPOs. Many, but not all, Medicare Advantage plans offer prescription coverage. To join such a plan, you must have Medicare Part A and Part B. You can sign up for either type of drug plan when you first become eligible for Medicare or during Medicare’s open enrollment season, which runs from Oct. 15 to Dec. 7 each year. Beware: If your Medicare Advantage plan includes prescription benefits and you join a Part D plan, you’ll be dis-enrolled from your Medicare Advantage plan and returned to Original Medicare. How much does a Medicare drug plan cost? It varies, depending on what plan you choose, which drugs it covers, which pharmacy you use, and whether you’re eligible for the Extra Help program (more on that later). Most standalone, or Part D, plans charge a monthly premium, which you must pay in
premium. If you’re in a Medicare Advantage plan, the monthly premium for that plan may include an amount for drug coverage. Most Medicare drug plans also have a yearly deductible, an amount you must pay before the plan begins paying for its share of your drugs. Once the deductible is met, you’ll also pay a co-payment or co-insurance amount at the pharmacy counter. In addition, most Medicare drug plans have a coverage gap, also known as the “donut hole.” The gap begins after you and your drug plan together have spent a certain amount for your drugs. For more details on the gap, see the “Medicare & You” handbook, mailed to every Medicare beneficiary annually and also available online, at https://www. medicare.gov/Pubs/ pdf/10050.pdf. Once you’re out of the gap, you get “catastrophic coverage,” which means you only have to pay a copayment or co-insurance amount for your drugs for the rest of that calendar year. However, not everyone will enter the coverage gap because their drug costs
won’t be high enough. The gap is scheduled to be eliminated by 2020. Keep in mind that not every Medicare drug plan covers every drug. You’ll need to check with the plan to make sure that the drugs you need are covered. Also, plans may have restrictions such as prior authorization, quantity limits, and step therapy, which requires that you try a lower-cost drug before the plan will cover a high-priced medication. You or your prescriber has the right to appeal if you believe that such a rule should be waived. I also want to mention the Extra Help program, which assists low-income folks in paying for their prescriptions. If you qualify, Extra Help can save you thousands of dollars annually on your drugs. For more details, see the “Medicare & You” handbook. David Sayen 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 (1-800-633-4227).
PRINCIPAL from page 1 technology solutions and instructional strategies that contribute to high-quality learning experiences for all students. “This year’s ‘20 to Watch’ honorees highlight how formal and informal professional networks help them identify and share the innovative approaches that are truly making a difference,” said Thomas J. Gentzel, NSBA, Executive Director. “Showcasing the initiatives of these educators can help other district leaders identify where there might be opportunities for new approaches in their own communities to address the digital-use divide identified in the U.S. Department of Education’s National Education Technology Plan. These teachers and administrators, with support from their school boards, share a vision for learning that
will prepare students for future success.” As Principal of Montair Elementary, Welcome leads the integration of technology into teaching, learning and communication on his campus. At his school, fifth graders serve as social media interns who tell powerful stories to their community by snapping photos, preparing tweets, and creating Facebook posts for publication while also learning digital citizenship skills. Adam Welcome created group hashtags, #KidsDeserveIt and #PrincipalsInAction so others can follow his work and that of his students. “I’m honored and humbled to be included with this list of educators from around the country that are doing amazing work on a daily basis for teachers and kids,” Welcome said. This is the 10th year of NSBA’s “20 to Watch”
program, created in 2006 to identify emerging leaders who would be helping to shape the national conversation about education technology for the next 20 years. “As we hoped when this recognition was established, many previous honorees are indeed moving into leadership positions and are redefining traditional notions about learning as a result of their experiences with technology,” said Ann Flynn, NSBA’s Director of Education Technology. This year’s honorees will be recognized during the 2016 Consortium for School Networking (CoSN) Conference on April 4 in Washington, D.C., and at the TLN-hosted luncheon during NSBA’s 2016 Annual Conference on April 8 in Boston. TechSmith Corporation continues to provide generous support for the “20 to Watch” celebration events.
valleysentinel.com
March 2016
Castle Rock Falcons By Beverly Lane, East Bay Regional Parks District
It’s nesting season again for peregrine falcons at the Castle Rocks near Walnut Creek, so the rock formations are closed to the public. The rocks are located within Mt. Diablo State Park. However, people often access them from the Stage Road Trail, which runs along Pine Creek through Castle Rock and Diablo Foothills Regional Parks.
Pine Creek forms the boundary between the state and regional parks. The closed area is bounded by the creek, the Sunset Trail in the state park, and Falcon Road. Visitors can still hike along the Stage Road Trail, but should not cross the creek and climb the rocks. The closure is in effect from now through July 31 to encompass the falcons’ nesting season. Signs are posted; trespassing can result in citations and fines. Peregrine falcons prey mostly on other birds. They are considered the fastest
San Ramon Chamber “State of the City” Address Luncheon provided insight on safety, finance and infrastructure On Tuesday February 9th, The San Ramon Chamber of Commerce held its annual state of the City luncheon at San Ramon Golf Club where Mayor Bill Clarkson greeted attendees and thanked Stewart Bambino and Kathy Fanning of the San Ramon Chamber for all of their work in making the luncheon possible. Mayor Clarkson gave a comprehensive overview of the City’s safety, citing that San Ramon was deemed Best small town in the US, and Best Town for Young Families in Northern CA by Niche.com. San Ramon was also rated the #1 Lowest Crime rate in a city of over 50,000 residents in California, and #6 in the US. The City is hiring 4 new police officers, Clarkson said, and has a new dispatch call center that will begin service July 1 in partnership with San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District. “The City’s finances are in excellent shape”, said Clarkson, “with a budget surplus of $3 million, and additional funds added to the surplus accounts”, he said. He pointed out that there have been significant reductions in pension obligations but that
there are challenges ahead in the five year forecast due to a lack of sales tax revenue as people are shopping more online instead of getting out to the brick and mortar merchant locations at various shopping centers throughout the city. This should improve with the new City Center project, Clarkson said. The current proposal for the City Center at Bishop Ranch includes retail, restaurants and a movie theater, with residential and business space coming in the future, “creating a vibrant downtown & encouraging diverse economic development”, he said. Clarkson went on to say that a primary focus in the coming year is traffic: Bollinger Canyon Rd., City Center, and Crow Canyon Rd. around many of the schools. He also spoke about preserving open spaces, and keeping development as in-fill. All of these projects include making San Ramon a bike, pedestrian and trail friendly town, he said. For more information you can always contact Mayor Clarkson at bclarkson@ sanramon.ca.gov
animals in the world, because they have been clocked in speeds as high as 200 miles per hour during their hunting power dives. Considered an endangered species for a time, they have made a comeback since the ban on DDT pesticides. DDT had caused them to produce too-thin eggshells. There was a nesting pair of peregrines in the Castle Rocks last year. It’s hoped that they will nest again, if they are not disturbed. So please abide by the closure. The first spring wildflowers are starting to appear in the regional parks and other public open spaces. One of the early arrivals is Indian warrior, a magentacolored plant several inches high with fernlike leaves, which grows under manzanita bushes. Indian warrior has what the botanists call a hemiparasitic relationship with the manzanita. It can either draw nourishment from the manzanita roots or survive independently. Other early spring wildflowers include pink and white shooting stars, buttercups, red maids and miner’s lettuce. Miner’s
The valley Sentinel lettuce, which is edible, actually has tiny white flowers within its green leaves if you look closely. Although many regional parks have beautiful spring wildflower displays, some of the parks are real standouts. As the season progresses, you can see beautiful wildflowers along the Chaparral Loop Trail and Ridge Trail at Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve in Antioch. Or walk the Prairie Falcon Trail at Morgan Territory Regional Preserve on Morgan Territory Road east of Mt. Diablo. Another sure bet is Sunol Regional Wilderness in southern Alameda County. Walk out the Camp Ohlone Road to Little Yosemite, turn left on Cerro Este Road, and loop back to the start on the Canyon View Trail. You’ll see lots of wildflowers along the way. You can purchase a wildflower guide at Sunol’s visitor center. One of the most spectacular wildflower venues in season is Rocky Ridge on the Ohlone Wilderness Trail. From the Lichen Bark picnic area at Del Valle Regional Park south of Livermore it’s a sometimes-steep climb for two miles up to Rocky Ridge. But the payoff is beautiful displays
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of goldfields and other wildflowers along the ridge. The views of the Livermore Valley are another reward for your efforts. A permit is required for the Ohlone Wilderness Trail, because it goes partly through San Francisco Water Department lands. For information on how to obtain a permit, see the Ohlone Wilderness Trail entry on the park district web site, www. ebparks.org. East Bay Regional Park District naturalists schedule lots of wildflower walks during the spring. And there’s an annual wildflower festival at Sunol Regional Wilderness. This year it’s on Saturday, April 9. For more information on wildflower hikes, visit the park district web site. You can download park maps at that web site, too.
Alamo News Update By Steve Mick Jason Haynes. They spoke on a number of security issues relevant to Plaza merchants such as shoplifting and customer interactions. The new Plaza management is eager to understand the Alamo culture Alamo Plaza Has Been and respond to issues such Sold as parking at the Plaza. They The big news is that stressed that it will take some the Alamo Plaza Shopping time to fully assess merchant Center has been sold. The and customer needs. buyers are Donahue Schriber Richards is Closing Realty Group, an investment Another significant firm based in Costa Mesa, change is that Richards Arts & California. Alamo Plaza is Crafts will be closing its doors the third property they have at the end of April. Richards purchased in the Bay Area. is noted for extensive craft The sales price is reported supplies, picture framing, to be over $100 Million. Of home decoration and a huge course, in California the selection of seasonal items. sale of a property kicks in a Owners Dick and Terri reassessment for property tax. Delfosse are famed for Representatives of the new their community spirit and owners met recently with Plaza generosity. Dick was selected merchants and community as Alamo’s Citizen of the members. They stressed that Year in 1999 and in February they are community friendly received The Danville Area and will offer enhanced Chamber of Commerce marketing efforts to elevate the Business Person of the Yearl Plaza’s exposure. They noted Award. Terri is well-known that they will be managing the for her outstanding efforts in Plaza themselves and will not organizing the annual Alamo hire absentee administrators. Tree Lighting Festival. Also invited to this In a recent email Terri meeting were Alamo Sheriff’s explained that they made Deputy Jesus Topete and this difficult decision due Alamo Station Commander Lt.
to a number of factors that included rising insurance costs and increases in property tax. Five Guys Burgers To Open Five Guys Burgers and Fries is a rapidly growing company that started in Washington, DC in 1986. They soon branched out and started offering franchise opportunities in 2003. They now have over 1400 locations. A local Five Guys franchisee has entered into an agreement with Alamo Plaza to open a new take-out store at the old bakery location on the corner north of Safeway in Suites 190-B and 190-C. Plans include some outdoor seating. More to Come? The new owners of Alamo Plaza are planning a new website to ensure that Alamo shoppers are kept up-to-date on their new initiatives. Use a search engine to locate the website so that you can remain informed. Steve Mick is a long-time Alamo resident and is active in a number of community organizations.among them are the Community Foundation of Alamo, the Exchange Club and the Alamo Municipal Advisory Council. You can reach Steve at steve@alamore.org.
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For additional Community Events visit: www.ValleySentinel.com Please email information about your events to info@valleysentinel.com COMMUNITY EVENTS Hope Hospice seeking volunteers Hope Hospice is currently looking for individuals who are interested in volunteering to assist hospice patients and their families. In keeping with Hope Hospice’s goal to make sure patients can live their lives to the fullest and with dignity, volunteers provide a variety of services that help enhance the quality of care of our patients’ lives. Volunteer opportunities include; Home Care; Cosmetology; Healing Touch; Reiki; Massage Therapy; Vocalists. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, contact Jill Biggs, RN, at 925-829-8770. Volunteers Needed: Read to Preschoolers Volunteers are needed at childcare centers in Concord, Pittsburg, and West County. The Contra Costa County Library will supply books and resources. For more information, please contact Maureen Kilmurray at 925-927-3288. Danville Farmer’s Market Every Saturday, Year-round 9am-1pm. Get the freshest seasonal fare at the Danville Certified Farmers’ Market. Railroad & Prospect Avenue, Danville. Information: www.ci.danville.ca.us. (You can make donations of fresh vegetables and fruit for our local food pantries at the Loaves & Fishes Booth at the Danville Farmers Market.) San Ramon Farmers Market Every Saturday & Thursday-Year-round, Bishop Ranch 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 Canine Companions for Independence Puppy Class Each Saturday 11am-12pm. 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. ccieastbay.org. FREE E-Waste Recycling Event First Saturday of every month 9am-1pm. Bring your old, unwanted electronic equipment. Drop off is FREE and all e-waste will be recycled right here in the good old USA. Diablo Valley College, 321 Golf Club Road in the Overflow Parking Lot #7, Pleasant Hill. Visit www.NoEwaste.com for accepted and non-accepted electronic items. Information: 866-335-3373 or info@NoEwaste.com. 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 the 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 ARF’S All Ears Reading March 14 4 - 5pm. Reading with animals is a great way for children who are struggling with reading to improve their skills. Children read aloud for 20 minutes to a dog from ARF’s Pet Hug Pack in a relaxed, nonjudgmental environment. Space is limited. First come first served. Oak View Room - Walnut Creek Library, 1644 N. Broadway Ave., Walnut Creek. www.wclibrary.org Art of Egg Decoration March 15 5:30 - 7:30pm. Join us for this introduction to the ancient folk art of Eastern European egg decorating, followed by a live demonstration by renowned artist Lenka Glassner. Lenka is continuing a long lived tradition of decorating chicken, ostrich and Goose eggs. Original, one of a kind decorated eggs will be available to purchase. Oak View Room - Walnut Creek Library, 1644 N. Broadway Ave., Walnut Creek. www.wclibrary.org
GFWC Danville Women’s Club March 17 11am. This month’s meeting will feature guest speaker Carol Carrillo, Executive Director of the Child Abuse Prevention Council of Contra Costa County. 242 Linda Mesa Avenue, Danville. 925642-2097 www.danvillewomensclub.org. SAT/ACT Writing Workshop March 17 6:30 - 7:30pm. Learn tips and tricks for writing essays for the SAT and ACT! Free. Ygnacio Valley Library, 2661 Oak Grove Road, Walnut Creek. www.wclibrary.org TVCJ Purim Celebration March 20 10:30am - 12:30pm.Tri-Valley Cultural Jews will be holding a secular Purim celebration they will make hamantaschen, have crafts, games, and fun for all ages, and present the annual Purim skit. Attendees are welcome to come dressed as their favorite Purim character. This event is free to members and $10 to non members. Bothwell Arts Center, 2466 8th St. in Livermore. Sons In Retirement Meeting March 21 11am. This month’s meeting features guest speaker Bill Green, co-director of the Speakers Bureau of the Vietnam Veterans of Diablo Valley. Bill has served on the Board of Directors for the VNVDV for the past decade and is currently the president. Bill’s presentation will touch on his tour in Vietnam and The Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall, a running history of the people on the wall, such as age groups, youngest to the oldest, where they were from, how many were related, etc....”things most people don’t know about”. Lunch is $15. Walnut Creek Elks Lodge, 1475 Creekside Drive. Please call 925-322-1160 to make lunch reservations. www.Branch116.org Family Science Night with Assemblywoman Catharine Baker March 22 6:30-8pm. Assemblywoman Catharine Baker (R-San Ramon) will co-host a Family Science Night with Sandia National Labs and Lawrence Livermore National Labs in San Ramon. This event will be an opportunity for families to learn about the importance of STEM education by engaging in fun, hands-on science activities. Sandia National Labs and Lawrence Livermore National Labs will be providing all the materials and instructions for students and parents to work together to conduct simple science experiments. Additionally, Assemblywoman Baker’s office is looking for parents, teachers, and teen volunteers to assist participants with the basic science experiments. Quail Run Elementary School, Muiti-Purpose Room, 4000 Goldenbay Avenue, San Ramon. If you are interested in volunteering, or have any questions about the event, please contact the District Office at 925-328-1515. All Ears Reading March 22 3 - 4pm. Hey kids, need practice with reading? Dogs are great listeners! Practice reading aloud for 30 minutes with a dog from All Ears Reading, a program of ARF. You may choose one session or the other, but not both. Please arrive five minutes before your registration time. No-show spaces will be given to drop-ins. Ygnacio Valley Library, 2661 Oak Grove Road, Walnut Creek. www.wclibrary.org Empowered Chiropractic Pain Relief & Wellness Center Anniversary Celebration March 24 5:30 - 8:30pm. The Empowered Chiropractic Pain Relief & Wellness Center will be holding it’s Anniversar Celebration on March 24th . 391 Diablo Road, Suite B, Danville. business. danvilleareachamber.com Eggstravaganza March 26 Hop on down to the Danville Community Center for a fun-filled morning of egg hunts, arts and crafts, face painting and more! Two sessions are scheduled, the 1st session runs from 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. and the 2nd session from 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Egg hunts are organized by age so every child has equal opportunity to find eight treasure-filled eggs. Parents sign their child up for a specific time slot for the egg hunt, but beyond that they are welcome to enjoy all the other activities during their session. Bring a camera, and take your little one’s picture with the Spring Bunny and the Spring Duck! Event will take place rain or shine. Don’t forget your Easter basket. Pre-registration is required. Register online at www.danvillerecguide.com. Town Green and Danville Community Center, 420 Front Street, Danville. (925) 314-3400.
Street Smarts Presents the CHP “Start Smart” Program March 29 7pm – 9pm. Motor vehicle collisions are the leading cause of death for teens aged 15 to 19. At this event, CHP officers will discuss collision factors associated with teen drivers, collision avoidance techniques, and driver/parent responsibilities. Parent and child attendance are strongly recommended. (Note: The presentation contains graphic “accident” images.) Free. Dougherty Valley Performing Arts Center, 10550 Albion Rd, San Ramon. info@street-smarts.com or 925973-2581 or www.chp.ca.gov/community/startsmart.html.
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. St. Patrick’s Day Celebration March 17 11:30am-1pm. Danville Senior Center invites residents to come and experience the luck of the Irish while enjoying a traditional lunch of corned beef, potatoes, drinks and desserts provided by our local Irish pub, McGah’s. After lunch, guests will be entertained by Irish dancers from Dillon Magh Adhair Academy of Irish Dance. $10(R) $12(N). Danville Senior Center, Veterans Memorial Building, 115 E. Prospect, Danville. 314-3430 or www. danvillerecguide.com. 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) are open to all adults and meets on the second and fourth Wednesday of every month. The group starts at the Danville Park-n-Ride (next to the Sycamore Valley 680 North exit) at 9AM 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 Tuesday from 10am-1pm. Sign up for trips at the travel desk or by depositing payment with registration form in the gold drop box found at the main entryway. Information: 973-3250. Wednesday Morning Hikes (time and location varies) Join the San Ramon Trailblazers if you are interested in meeting new people, enjoying the outdoors, having fun and getting in shape. The group meets once a week at various locations, 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 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 San Ramon Library Front Desk. Book group meets at Alcosta Senior and Community Center, 9300 Alcosta Blvd. Information: Carol Yuke, Adult Services Librarian. 925-973-285.
BUSINESS Comcast Business Presents: Maximize your Mixing March 17 4:30 - 6:15pm. So many people stop themselves from going to a mixer. Others go and feel awkward so they never go again. This workshop is designed to empower you to go to a mixer, and
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 to practice a few simple yet effective techniques to make it a positive and profitable experience. You really will get new clients from mixing with the easy tools you’ll learn. Admission is $10. The Bridges Golf Club, The Fireside Room, 9000 S. Gale Ridge Road, San Ramon. Business Expo and Mixer at The Bridges Golf Club March 17 5 - 7:30pm. Discover local businesses and network with up to 350 people at the San Ramon Business Expo and Mixer, at the Bridges Golf Club. Admission is $20 for attendees. The Bridges Golf Club, 9000 S. Gale Ridge Road, San Ramon. San Ramon Chamber of Commerce New and Future Member Orientation March 22 4-5pm. Learn about the various Chamber services that can benefit your business. Free. RSVP and for location call 925-242-0600. *Business Showcase and Culinary Event April 13 5 – 8pm. This premier event showcases the products and services of the Danville Area. It features tastings from 25 of premier restaurants, leading businesses and wine stations throughout. Crow Canyon Country Club, 711 Silver Lake Dr., Danville. www.danvilleareachamber.com
CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS Danville-Alamo-Walnut Creek Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) advances equity for women and girls through advocacy, education, philanthropy and research. AAUW membership is open to all graduates of accredited four year colleges or universities and those holding an Associate Degree or equivalent. Prospective members are welcome and may contact Liz at 389-0152 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, Wa l n u t C r e e k . I n f o r m a t i o n / 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 925837-0510. 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 925-8298770. Hospice of the East Bay Support groups and workshops for adults, children and teens experiencing grief after the death of a loved one. Classes will be offered at Hospice’s Administrative Offices: 3470 Buskirk Avenue; Pleasant Hill and the Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation: 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek. Pre-registration is required for all groups and classes, except our drop-in group. To register, please call Hospice of the East Bay: (925) 887-5681. Information: www.hospiceeastbay.org Wind ‘n Sea Sailing Club Sailing training classes take place at members’ homes. Information: Call Jan at 925-837-3381.
March 2016 Forewomen Golf Association provides opportunities to play golf with other women who share the love of the game and also want to give back to our community through our charity program. FWGA is an associate club of the Northern California Golf Association (NCGA), not affiliated with any particular golf course. We offer five opportunities to play a week at East Bay courses. All lev e l s w e l c o m e . F o r m o r e information contact Cheryl Ramirez at communications@forewomengolf. org. Overcome inappropriate compulsive sexual behavior Avenue nonprofit ministry helps men overcome inappropriate compulsive sexual behavior and helps women heal from the betrayal of their relationship. Confidential groups for men and for women. No charge / donations accepted. Call (877-3267000). www.AvenueResource.com. RECURRING Mondays: The Walnut Creek Garden Club Meets the second Monday of each month. Meeting begins at 9:30 with community and socializing from 10:30 to 11:00. 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. Take Off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS) Meeting Every Tuesday 8-10am. This Weight Loss Support Group provides a space for those who wish to lose weight. St. Timothy’s, 1550 Diablo Rd. 925-838-7870. Diablo View Toastmasters 8:15-9:15am. Meets every Tuesday. CMG Mortgage, 4th Floor Conference Room, 3160 Crow Canyon Rd., San Ramon. Information: 4160. toastmastersclubs.org. Walnut Creek Kiwanis Club 12:10-1:30pm. Meets every Tuesday. Massimo’s Ristorante, 1604 Locust Street, Walnut Creek. Information: kiwanisofwalnutcreek.org.
Walnut Creek Rotary 12:15-1:30pm. Meets every Tuesday. Heather Farms Garden Center, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: rotarywc.org. ARF Pet Loss Support Group 5:30-7pm. Meets second Tuesday of every month. Register with Vicki at 925887-5681 or vickis@hospiceeastbay. org. ARF, 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: arf.net. Divorced and Separated Workshop. A new workshop series for divorced and separated people is being held on Tuesday evenings from 7:00 to 8:30PM at St. Joan of Arc Parish, 2601 San Ramon Valley Blvd., San Ramon. Contact: Sue at smc9@sbcglobal.net. 925 -819-1809. Prostate Cancer Group 7:30–9pm. Meets 2nd Tuesday of the month. Drop-in prostate cancer group for men and their loved ones. San Ramon Regional Medical Center, South Building, West Day Room. 6001 Norris Canyon Road, San Ramon. Information: 925.933.0107 or www.twc-bayarea.org/ community-programs.html. Wednesdays: Walnut Creek Toastmasters 7-8:15pm. Meets every Wednesday. 1660 Oak Park Blvd., Pleasant Hill. Information: walnutcreek.freetoasthost. net Hospice of the East Bay Drop-in Bereavement Support 4:30-6pm, 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of every month. 3470 Buskirk Avenue; Pleasant Hill. Information: 925-8875681 or visit www.hospiceeastbay.org. Alamo Rotary 12:15pm. Meets every Wednesday. Round Hill Country Club, 3169 Roundhill Road, Alamo. Information: alamorotary.org. Danville Toastmasters Club #1785 7:30-9pm. Meets every Wednesday. R o o m W 2 0 4 a t D i a b l o Va l l e y 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 and third Wednesday at the Black Bear Diner, 807 Camino Ramon, Danville. Information: Pat.Porter@hannaglobal.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: visit www. srvexchangeclub.org Walnut Creek Host Lion’s Club 12:15pm. Meets the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Wednesdays of each month. Black Bear Diner, 700 Bancroft Road, Walnut Creek. Information: walnutcreeklions. org. 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. 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. $23 includes luncheon. A great opportunity to socialize. To reserve a space, please email us by Friday prior to luncheon at www.info@SIR128.com. Location:
The Valley Sentinel San Ramon Golf Club, 9430 Fircrest Lane, San Ramon. Information: www. SIR128.com. Diablo Valley Quilters 7-9pm. Meets the third Wednesday of every month. No charge for guests. Danville Congregational Church, 989 San Ramon Valley Blvd., Danville. Information: diablovalleyquilters.com. Veterans of Foreign Wars 7pm. Meets the third Wednesday of every month. Veterans Memorial Hall, 400 Hartz Avenue, Danville. Information: Post Commander Ernie Petagara at 925-362-9806 or vfwpost75.org. Diablo Singles Dance Club 7-10pm. Meets the last Wednesday of every month. Live music, refreshments. Members $8, Guests $12. All welcome. 111N. Wiget Lane, Walnut Creek. Thursdays: 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.
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Saturdays: Diablo Region of the Porsche Club of America 7:30-9am. Meets every Saturday. Buttercup Bar and Grill, 660 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek. Information: diablo-pca.org. Parkinson’s Disease Support Group 9am-12pm. Meets every 3rd Saturday. Join us to share, laugh, and learn from each other. Meeting location is the Fireside Room at Grace Presbyterian Church, 2100 Tice Valley Blvd., Walnut Creek. Contact Gregg Riehl at (925) 2548349 or jgriehl@gmail.com. Caregivers meet at same time in Oak Room of Grace Church. Free. All are welcome. Information: Howard Zalkin at 925 939 4210 or Ronnie Wanetick at 933-6357. Sundays: Cars n Coffee: First Sunday of Every Month 8-10am. Blackhawk Automotive Museum is hosting Cars and Coffee for automotive enthusiasts in the parking lots of Blackhawk Plaza. Our partner, Scott’s Catering, will provide coffee and other refreshments. Blackhawk Museum; 3700 Blackhawk Plaza Circle; Danville. Information: www.blackhawkmuseum. org.
Classifieds HELP WANTED
San Ramon Valley Kiwanis Club Thursday at Noon. Black Bear Diner, 807 Camino Ramon, Danville. www. kiwanis-srv.org
Sr. Software Developer: B.S. in Engr., C. S., or rltd. & 10 yrs. rltd. exp. CV to: careers@bankofthewest.com. EEO. Position in San Ramon, CA (may telecommute from w/in U.S.).
Clutterers Anonymous 7-8pm. Meets the 2nd and 4th Thursday of every month. St. Luke’s Lutheran Church room 3, 2491 San Miguel Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: 925-736-8627.
Software Developer: Master’s in C. S. or rltd. & 7 yr. rltd. exp. CV to: Bank of the West, 2527 Camino Ramon, San Ramon, CA 94583. ATTN: H. R. or email careers@bankofthewest.com. EEO. Position in San Ramon, CA.
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
QA Analyst I: Bach in Electronic Eng. or rltd. & 5 yr. rltd. exp. Bank of the West. Job in San Ramon, CA 94583. CV to careers@bankofthewest.com.
Sales Executive: Sentinel Newspapers, Inc. has immediate openings for a sales person for A La Carte magazine and for the Valley Sentinel. Sales territory includes Danville, Alamo, San Ramon, Walnut Creek and Lafayette. Sales experience helpful. Will train the right person. Must have an outgoing personality and a positive attitude. Compensation based on performance. Local Central Contra Costa residents only need apply. Please email your resume and request for interview to us at drousset@valleysentinel.com.
Community News & Information Danville • Blackhawk Alamo • Diablo • San Ramon Publisher/Editor - Denise Rousset Chief Financial Officer - Jeff Gummere Graphic Designer - Laurie Prindle Auto - David & Judy Colman Contributing Writer - Alison Clary Web Support - ewebsiteservices.com Intern - Paulina Fischer, MVHS Photography Intern - Imran Ali, MVHS
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www.valleysentinel.com
page 14
The valley Sentinel
AUTO March March2009 2016
The 2016 Jeep Renegade Trailhawk 4x4 By David and Judy Colman
The Jeep-ChryslerFiat merger has resulted in engineering collaboration responsible for this Italian Jeep. Based on the platform of the Fiat 500L, the Renegade is built in Melfi, Italy and presents Jeep customers with the company’s first ever compact crossover SUV. In the Trailhawk form we tested, the Jeep Renegade provides true off road capability. First, it offers Jeep “SelecTerrain,” which offers you the ability to select optimal performance in snow, sand, off-road and rock modes. Only the Trailhawk offers the rock mode category. Also, only the Trailhawk offers maximum ground clearance of 8.7 inches, 0.8 inches higher than the standard Renegade. The Trailhawk, with its generous angles of approach (30.5 degrees), and departure (34.3 degrees), is capable of fording water 19 inches deep. Finally, the perfectly geared Trailhawk also boasts a rear axle ratio of 4.33:1 for ultra low
speed trail creeping. Other Renegades make do with a 3.73:1 final drive. Under the taut little hood sits the model’s top optional engine, the 2.4 liter Fiat-based Multiaire (turbo) engine which produces 184hp and 177lb.-ft. of torque. This respectably powerful motor passes its energy to all four wheels through a nifty nine-speed 948TE automatic gearbox which offers good low speed dig and silent freeway cruising thanks to its wide variety of gear sets. The Trailhawk alone offers what Jeep calls “Active Drive Low” for crawling along rocky roads. The transmission also automatically disconnects rear-wheel-drive when unneeded to improve overall fuel economy. The Renegade 4 x4 manages 24 MPG in combined city/highway use and posts a moderate annual fuel cost of $2,200. The styling of the Renegade is joyful Early Boom Box. The stunning shade of Omaha Orange which graced our Renegade
does wonders for the slinky contours of this smallest Jeep. The $150 optional matte black Hood Decal added yet another intriguing complexity to the look of the Renegade. Jeep ingeniously carried the exterior orange into the interior trim, with bright colored rings surrounding the dash vents and shift console. These orange surrounds were designed to mimic latches, giving the interior an outdoorsy cachet that has long been the hallmark of Jeep. The twin removable “My Sky” sunroof panels (a $1,395 option), can be stored in their own tonneau cover ($75) in the trunk area. The panels detach via star bolts for which Jeep provides a special tool. This wrench, cast in aluminum alloy, replicates the classic 7 bar grill of the Jeep. This grill has been a trademark of the company since Willys built the first Jeep in 1941. In fact, the proud moniker “Since 1941” appears above the TFT screen in the center of the dash.
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The Renegade is surprisingly agile on paved roads, given its high center of gravity and off road capable Goodyear Wrangler SR-A tires (215/65R17). These raised white letter Goodyears perform well when pressed hard on twisty roads. The little Jeep takes a quick set as you maneuver it through tight turns. All in all, its performance in these circumstances exceeds what you might expect when you first note its tall center of gravity. But if you’ve driven a Fiat 500L, you know what to expect from the Renegade in terms of tidy driving feedback. Although vision is terrific from the Jeep’s front seat to the front and sides, the Renegade’s beefy rear quarter pillars and bevy of backseat headrests conspire to make backing up a real pain. To ease the problem, you can equip your Trailhawk with the $1,395 optional “Safety and Security Group I” which includes Blind Spot and Cross Path Detection. The “Parkview” rear back-up camera is thankfully standard issue, and projects its image on a 7 inch TFT color display screen.
As if to confirm the bonafides of the Renegade, Jeep has equipped it with substantial fixed tow hooks (two front, one rear) painted international orange to match the exterior of the vehicle. There’s no mistaking the implication of these hooks. The Trailhawk carries a “Trail Rated” badge, and is meant to be used and sometimes abused in the outback. It looks the part because it has earned the part. Despite its engaging good looks and playful design, this is a trail rated Jeep through and through, making no concessions to a lesser role in life. 2016 JEEP TRAILHAWK 4x4 ENGINE: 2.4 liter inline 4, SOHC, 16 valves, turbocharged HORSEPOWER: 184hp TORQUE: 177lb.-ft. FUEL CONSUMPTION: 21 MPG City/29 MPG Highway PRICE AS TESTED: $31,690 HYPES: Fetching Appearance, True Jeep Genes GRIPES: Rear Visibility Poor STAR RATING: 10 Stars out of 10
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valleysentinel.com
March 2016
The valley Sentinel
page 15
Why Should You Become a Civil Grand Juror? By Candace Andersen. Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors
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“The Lucky Day collection is intended to enhance the browsing experience for our library guests,” said County Librarian Jessica Hudson. “When they visit our branches they’ll enjoy the thrill of finding the latest and most popular titles waiting on our shelves.” Each library location will have several copies of each book available. Library guests must come into the library and browse the shelves to see if it is in fact their lucky day. For more information, please contact Community and Media Relations Coordinator Brooke Converse at bconvers@ccclib.org or (925) 927-3213
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The Contra Costa County libraries have launched a “Lucky Day” collection in all 26 library locations. The new program gives more library patrons a chance to check out popular bestselling books. The “Lucky Day” collection includes best sellers and titles with long hold lists. Library guests who come into their local branch will have the opportunity to find titles not normally available for checkout due to long reserve lists. It could be their lucky day. Library guests can check out two “Lucky Day” items per library card and the checkout period is three weeks. These books are non-renewable and are not available for holds.
additional information on this topic or on other County issues. I can be reached at SupervisorAndersen@bos. cccounty.us or 925-957-8860.
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Contra Costa County libraries’ “Lucky Day” collection offers grab-and-go best sellers
language to communicate both orally and in writing. Jurors cannot currently hold an elected position. No particular background, training or experience is necessary to be a grand juror. In fact, it is the diversity of its members that is one of the grand jury’s greatest strengths. Applicants should have reliable transportation to Martinez, and must be prepared to devote at least 20 hours per week to Civil Grand Jury service. Citizens who work should apply only if they can be released from their jobs to perform the jury duties. Those selected will be fingerprinted before the drawing. Jurors do receive a stipend for attending full jury and committee meetings and are reimbursed for allowable jury travel; ($15 per day for committee meetings and an additional $15 per week for Plenary meetings) that amounts to $60 per week and mileage reimbursement. Parking permits are provided to park in the City of Martinez while performing Grand Jury duties. Serving on a Grand Jury is both an interesting and gratifying way to give back to our community, and helps improve local government. Persons interested in applying may contact the Office of the Civil Grand Jury at (925) 957-5638, or visit www.cc-courts.org for additional information regarding service on the Civil Grand Jury and to obtain an application. Applications are also available in my office. The deadline to apply is Friday, March 25, 2016.
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Have you ever wanted to help local government become more effective? Consider applying to be a Civil Grand Juror. Dedicated community volunteers are needed to serve on the next Contra Costa County Civil Grand Jury. The Superior Court is accepting applications for Civil Grand Jury service for the 20162017 term now through the end of March. The Civil Grand Jury is tasked with investigating and reporting on the operations of local government. The Grand Jury’s fact-finding efforts result in written reports which contain specific recommendations aimed at identifying problems and offering recommendations for improving government operations and enhancing responsiveness. In this way, the Grand Jury acts as a representative of county residents in promoting government accountability. Every effort is made to ensure that the Grand Jury reflects the makeup of the residents of the county. Grand Jurors are agents of change in their communities. They come from all walks of life. They bring with them a broad range of interests, talents and life experiences, but
they share a dedication to democratic ideals and a willingness to devote their time and energies to matters of civic importance. Civil Grand Jurors are appointed by the Superior Court to serve a 1-year term, from July 1 through June 30. Individuals may be recommended by the Judges of the Superior Court or may volunteer to serve. Each applicant is interviewed by a group of Superior Court Judges. Those applicants who are deemed qualified are placed in a pool and 19 are randomly selected as Grand Jurors. Some individuals are selected as alternates, who may be sworn-in during the term if a vacancy occurs. All county citizens have the authority to call the jury’s attention to issues within their governmental agencies that they think should be reviewed. Individuals selected for service will be expected to be available during the last two weeks of June to meet with outgoing jurors, tour county facilities, meet with department heads, become familiar with their colleagues, learn about juror responsibilities and procedures, and select committees on which they will serve. A person qualified to be a grand juror must be a United States citizen, 18 years of age or older, a resident of Contra Costa County for at least one year prior to selection, and possesses a sufficient knowledge of the English
My office is here to serve the residents of Contra Costa County District 2, which includes San Ramon, Danville, Alamo, Walnut Creek, Saranap, Parkmead, Lafayette, Moraga, Canyon and Orinda. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if we can provide you with
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The valley Sentinel
March 2016
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