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May 2015
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SPOTLIGHT
Memorial Day program – best in the Bay Area By staff writer The annual 2015 Memorial Day Remembrance Program was the first project undertaken by the VietNam Veterans of Diablo Valley (VNVDV), and is one of the most well attended traditional Memorial Day Celebrations in the East Bay. Coordinated with the Town of Danville and with the cooperation of the All Wars Memorial Foundation, the event traditionally draws more than a thousand community members who recognize Memorial Day not as just than a three-day holiday weekend to have a BBQ or picnic, but as a day to remember all those who have served in our armed forces and died for our country. The VNVDV invites the community to take some time on Memorial Day, Monday, May 25th to bring their families to Danville’s beautiful Oak Hill Park on Stone Valley Road, next to Monte Vista High School in Danville, and join
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San Ramon Valley Wolves right after winning the CIF Division 1 State Championship on March 27, 2015. FRONT ROW (Left to right) Coach Tappin, Trainer Brooke Stevens, Trainer Karly Baker, Head Coach Botteen, Keith Smith, CJ Feickert, Jared Miller, Kyle Spackman, Alex Goodman, Gregg Polosky, Austin Henderson, Drew Kunde, Sean Rimar, Zack Medley, Coach Olson, Coach Correa, Coach Koury, Coach Shrewsbury. BOTTOM ROW (Left to right) Christian Fuca, Jake Don Sing, JJ Koski, Tatum Kapulica, Jake Lloyd, Trevor Alexander, Mitch Allan.
Wolves Complete Storybook Season By Kyle Spackman, Senior, San Ramon Valley High School When it comes to men’s high school basketball it has been a remarkable twelve months for the town of Danville. The Monte Vista Mustangs celebrated their schools first ever-state championship in 2014. Now, the other local high school can stake the same claim. On March 27, the San Ramon Valley Wolves defeated the Huskies of Chino Hills in a thrilling double overtime victory, 79-71. This marks the first time in school history that the Wolves have achieved this great honor. In a period where individual talent and recognition is the consistent theme, the
Wolves accomplished this feat by doing it the old fashioned way, through team play and a strong bond. A good example of this was seen in the second and final overtime of the championship contest. The Wolves had five different scorers in the final four minutes, showing that this was much more than a oneman team. The season, although historic, was not without its share of adversity. The Wolves completed the EBAL season in third place and were knocked out of the NCS semifinals to league opponent De La Salle. The team also
had several players that had to deal with the loss of a beloved coach, Todd French (lacrosse and football). He lost his battle to cancer this past winter and the basketball squad dedicated the remainder of the season in his honor. If you attended a game you would hear the players come out of a huddle by saying “French”. Some might say that the road to the state championship started months before the actual game. On the evening of December 23rd the Wolves defeated Berkeley High on the road. After the game the team took a side route to the front steps of Haas
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pavilion where first-year coach Brian Botteen told the team that this was where they would be playing in March. “After that evening I knew that our team could make it to Haas and play for the state title”, said senior Mitch Allan. It was one thing to dream big but it is another to turn the dream into a reality. The Wolves got hot when it mattered most, defeating some of the top teams in northern California on its way to the state title game. Led by seniors Keith Smith, Chrsitian Fuca, Gregg Polosky, Kyle Spackman, JJ Koski, and Drew Kunde the Wolves played a complete team game and closed out their high school careers as state champions!
Spring Home & Garden pg. 8 Kids’ Camps
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May 2015 Danville Girls Chorus Pops Concert May 3 11am. The Danville Girls Chorus (DGC) presents our annual POPs Concert, “Whatever You Imagine”, at the East Bay Four Square Church. Come join us for an energetic tribute to your favorite animated classics from both television and film! $15 adults, $5 children. 2615 Camino Tassajara Road, Danville. danvillegirlschorus. org.
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California Invites the World – Centennial of the Panama Pacific International Exposition May 5 – June 20 Come celebrate 100 years of innovation and wonder with us! Back in 1915, the San Francisco Bay Area was very excited about the Panama Pacific International Exposition. The Panama Canal had just opened in 1913 and San Francisco had proudly rebuilt after the 1906 Earthquake. The City hosted a grand exposition that drew nearly 19,000,000 visitors
to the fair site in only 9 months. See the exhibit at the Museum of the San Ramon Valley, 205 Railroad Avenue, Danville. Information: 925-837-3750 or www. museumsrv.org Wine and Chocolate Stroll May 7 6-9pm. Danville Chocolates, Sweet Street and other local chocolate shops will showcase their decadent creations while Livermore Valley wineries pour their best vintages—all against the backdrop of music and merriment. Your $35 ticket includes a commemorative glass, wine tasting, food bites, and entertainment in Historic Downtown Danville. discoverdanvilleca.com. Tri-Valley Repertory Presents Nunsense May 8-17 2pm, 8pm. Nunsense begins when the Little Sisters of Hoboken discover that their cook, Sister Julia, Child of God, has accidentally poisoned 52 of the sisters, and they are in dire need of funds for the burials. The sisters decide that the best way to raise the money is to put on a variety show, so they take over the school auditorium, which is currently set up for the eighth
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“Between the Shadows” Opening Reception May 8 5-7pm. Experience the work of six talented Bay Area photographers at the opening reception of “Between the Shadows” in the Village Theatre. The collection showcases “Urban and Rural Scenes”. The reception will be accompanied by the local jazz quintet Soulafied. 233 Front St, Danville. villagetheatreartgallery.com. Fratello Marionettes present “Peter and the Wolf” May 12 6:30-7:15pm. Help usher in the summer reading program theme at the Dougherty Station Library with a presentation of “Peter and the Wolf” as performed by the Fratello Marionettes. You’ll be on the edge of your seat as you watch a brave and lucky boy save his friends from catastrophe. Dougherty Station Library, 17017 Bollinger Canyon Rd, San Ramon. (925) 973-3380.
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Jewel City: The Panama Pacific International Exposition May 14 7-9:30pm. Celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Panama-Pacific International Exposition as Laura Ackley, author and architectural historian, tells the fascinating story of the stunning innovation that awed 19 million fairgoers from San Francisco to Danville and beyond. Free. Danville Library, 400 Front St., Danville. (925) 837-4889. San Ramon Symphonic Band: The Symphonic Beatles May 15 7:30pm. Bring the entire family to enjoy an
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT dining out • music • art • theater • fun events
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May 2015
evening of music provided by the 55 member San Ramon Symphonic Band. Adults $6, kids under 12 or with a student ID are free. Dougherty Valley Performing Arts Center, 10550 Albion Rd, San Ramon. sanramon. ca.gov.
elsewhere. All Members and guests are invited to read a favorite poem during the open reading session. Refreshments to follow. San Ramon Library, 100 Montgomery St, San Ramon. (925) 973-2850.
Dixieland Jazz May 16 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 510-655-6728.
Botticelli to Braque: Masterpieces from the National Galleries of Scotland May 19 1-2pm. Get ready for a special Arts & Travel Presentation Series from around the world! Enjoy fascinating visual presentations of upcoming art exhibits and learn about exciting adventures in travel. Free. Danville Library, 400 Front St., Danville. (925) 837-4889.
The Ina Coolbrith Circle Presents: Poetry Reading and Open Mic May 16 2-4pm. Alice Templeton is the featured poet this month at the Ina Coolbrith Circle. Her poems have appeared in Poetry, 88, Puerto del Sol, Many Mountains Moving, and
Anything Goes May 22– June 27 This fabulous musical features music and lyrics by Cole Porter; based on the original book by P.G. Wodehouse which was revised by Guy Bolton, Howard Lindsay & Russel Crouse. You’ll hear great
Cole Porter tunes including: “I Get a Kick out of You,” “It’s Delovely,” and of course, “Anything Goes.” Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr. Walnut Creek. For more information call 925-943-SHOW or visit www.centerrep.org
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Auditions for Danville Girls Chorus June 2 3:45pm. The Danville Girls Chorus will be holding auditions for new singers at San Ramon Valley High School. If you know someone in grades 2 to 7 who loves to sing and wants to audition, please have them register for an audition at danvillegirlschorus.org. 501 Danville Blvd, Danville.
Bay Area legend! He has Monkey See, Monkey made numerous television appearances and travels the Do: Family Friendly world performing his famous Improv and remarkable “Classy May 31 Preschool Performance Clown” show. Don’t miss this 2pm. This one hour Series - Unique Derique truly special talent! Village short form improv show is June 5 Theatre, 233 Front St, Danville. designed especially for kids! 10am. Derique is a villagetheatreshows.com. This family friendly show is completely made up on the spot based on audience Watches Jewelry suggestions. Kids will have opportunities to participate and a chance to be on stage and take part in the fun. Front Row Theater, 17011 Bollinger Canyon Rd, San Buy • Sell • Trade • Repair • Free Estimates Ramon. sanramon.ca.gov. Buy one Watch Battery get one FREE (May 2015 Promo) San Ramon Youth 925.837.2340 604 Sycamore Valley Rd. W., Danville Symphony Concerts June 1 8pm. Enjoy a short • • classical concert performed by San Ramon’s youth symphony under the Open to the Public direction of David Sego. Admission is free, so bring May 13 & May 27 at 6pm sharp the entire family! Dougherty Valley Performing Arts Enjoy complimentary beer, wine, Center, 10550 Albion Rd, Italian food San Ramon. sanramon. ca.gov.
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from New York, Broadway star Marcus Lovett, with credits such as the title role in Phantom of the Opera among others. Also with appearances in As The World Turns, and as the Voice of Good Morning America
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Make a 5pm reservation at Gianni’s Italian Restaurant and enjoy 20% off your “pre-auction meal.” Visit http://giannissanramon.com or call 925.820.6969
page 4
The Valley SenTinel
May 2015
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Advertorial
Tips to Help Fight Skin Cancer By Dr. K. Kenneth Chao
Each year, over 2 million Americans are diagnosed with skin cancer (melanoma, basal cell, or squamous cell), according to the American Cancer Society. Almost all cases are attributed to unsafe sun exposure habits. Just one burn can increase the risk of developing skin cancer. While our Board Certified Oncologists at Epic Care, Partners in Cancer Care, are
experts in the treatment of skin cancers, we are strong advocates in cancer prevention including simple sun safety measures, no matter what season it is. Knowing the risks and following our tips can help prevent the most common form of cancer in the United States. Arm Yourself with Sunscreen Sunscreen may be the most valuable tool in preventing skin cancer. In accordance with the American Cancer Society, we suggest at least SPF 30 for long-term sun exposure and at least SPF 15 for day-to-day use. The new FDA guidelines require “broad-spectrum sunscreens” that combine UVB and UVAabsorbing chemicals and/ or physical blockers, and thus give the widest range of protection. Check the label to make sure you are saving your skin from BOTH of the sun’s damaging rays.
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Advertorial
Inflammation—Can’t Live With or Without it into the cell of another, in Dr. Robert Brown
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• Recurring Headaches • Low Back and Leg Pain • Neck, Shoulder and Arm Pain • Pain Between Shoulders
How much to put on? Sunscreen is only effective if used properly. Remember Epic Care’s rule for sunblock: 2-30. It takes about two tablespoons of sunblock to cover the entire body and should be applied 30 minutes before actually going outside. This gives the skin enough time to absorb the lotion and become effective in blocking the UV rays. Don’t forget to reapply every few hours, after drying off, or after excessive sweati ang. If all possible, we also suggest avoiding the sun from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., sun bathing, and tanning salons. There simply is no safe tan. UVA rays are just as carcinogenic as UVB rays and should be avoided to prevent any damage. Topping off the Protection Hats, sun-protective clothing, and sunglasses are
other important items we recommend to help block the sun. Wide brimmed hats can help shield the nose, ears, shoulders and scalp from burns. It only takes one bad sunburn in childhood to double your chances of developing melanoma later in life, according to the ACS. Remember to pack these items for young children as well. The Mirror Never Lies It’s crucial to know every mole and freckle on your body. Any change can signify a problem and should be checked by a doctor immediately. Selfexams are recommended more frequently for those who have fair skin, have atypical moles and/or freckles, or have a history of severe burns. When examining moles, remember A-B-CD-E: • A is for ASYMMETRY: One half of a mole or
In the healthy animal living on pure, organic foods, inflammation is normal. It is an absolutely healthy response to injury or attack by infectious agents such as germs, viruses and foreign bodies. Due to the human animal changing its environment by adding foreign bodies to its food, by changing its lifestyle habits and by creating within its environment those conditions resulting in excessive stress, inflammation has become very unhealthy. In fact the World Health Organization declared that inflammation is the number one cause of death. Normal, good inflammation can turn bad when it becomes chronic, such as in periodontal disease. Chronic inflammation can be caused by stress, obesity and sleep apnea. Poor diet is a quite prominent factor not only causing this problem, but tearing apart the very mechanisms that fight the bad inflammation, causing adrenal fatigue and a domino effect on one’s health. The result brings its victim such symptoms as arthritis, colitis, ileitis, periodontitis and many others. The suffix “itis” means inflammation of a specified organ. You might have noticed
I called the above ailments symptoms, not diseases, as many consider and treat them. They are only symptoms of an underlying problem that itself must be addressed. One of the best approaches to these symptoms is to change to an antiinflammatory diet, especially a diet that strengthens the immune system and is high in colloidal fiber. As I mention in my book “WHY—The Question that Could Save Your Life”, one must not leave it up the health care practitioner to treat your ailment. One must study the cure oneself. The Internet can give you the knowledge of which foods are inflammatory and which are anti-inflammatory. The website, www. inflammationfactor.com, lists over 2000 foods and their inflammatory factor. An “IF” rating ap (IF=Inflammatory Factor) is available for your smart phone. If you love the pain of arthritis, all you need to do to make it worse is load up with sugar, a very inflammatory food. Another cause of inflammation has only recently been introduced to our food supply. GM, or genetically modified foods, are so bad that they are not legal in Europe. 94% of Soy is genetically altered. In this process the gene of one species is forcibly transferred
order to achieve a result that brings more profit. The profit in the case of soy, is that the new altered soy is resistant to Roundup. Once this new soy is consumed, the new cell can be mistaken by one’s body for foreign bodies, thus setting up an immune response with the resulting inflammation. There is a lot of scientific research warning us of the dangers of GMO’s, but greed prevails. The last time we voted on labeling GMO products, big money appeared to stop it. Now there are volunteers in the food industry that will be labeling non GMO products. In my treatment of severely painful TMJ cases, control of inflammation by correction of diet and lifestyle is essential to optimal treatment. If you are suffering from headaches; deferred tooth pain; jaw pain; sounds in your joints; limited mobility of the jaw; or are just a person who clenches and/or grinds their teeth, please contact my office to schedule a complimentary consultation/ evaluation. Life is too short to not feel your best. Advanced Oral Diagnosis & Treatment Center is located in Danville. Dr. Robert J. Brown of Advanced Oral Diagnosis and Treatment Center can be reached at (925) 837-8048 for more information or to make an appointment. You can also visit his website at www.aodtc. com
valleysentinel.com
May 2015 Advertorial
Kick Your Plantar Fasciitis
Class IV laser therapy to heal foot pain By Dr. Niele Maimone, DC
What is Plantar Fasciitis? Plantar fasciitis is an irritation and swelling of the thick tissue (plantar fascia) on the bottom of the foot. The plantar fascia is a thick fibrous band of connective tissue originating on the bottom surface of the calcaneus (heel bone) and extending along the sole of the foot toward the five toes. The plantar fascia helps hold up the bones on the bottom of the foot, creating the arch. When this fascia becomes inflamed it makes walking painful and difficult. The pain is usually felt on the underside of the heel and is often most intense with the first steps of the day. Plantar fasciitis is commonly thought of as being caused by a heel spur, but research has found that this is not the case. On x-ray, heel spurs are seen in people with and without plantar fasciitis. Risk factors for plantar fasciitis include: • Foot arch problems (both flat foot and high arches) • History of low back pain or sciatica • Tight Achilles tendon (the tendon connecting the calf muscles to the heel) • Obesity • Running, extended amounts of driving or repetitive stress to the foot or leg REMEMBRANCE from page 1 in one of the largest formal remembrances of the fallen in the East Bay. This is an open, public community event. Please join us. The seating will open to the public at 10am and patriotic music will begin at 10:30am–provided by the talented Danville Community Band. The actual Memorial Day Program begins at 11:00am and is planned to run just slightly over one hour. After the conclusion of the formal program everyone is encouraged to take time to walk around the lake in Oak Hill Park and visit the beautiful All Wars Memorial (AWM), with its granite walkway lined with over 1100 hundred pavers engraved in honor and in memory of military veterans and supporters, patriots and others. Along the walkway are
• Sudden weight gain What treatments are available for Plantar Fasciitis? Western medicine typically treats Plantar Fasciitis with oral and/or injectable anti-inflammatories. These may temporarily reduce the pain associated with Plantar Fasciitis but they do not treat the cause of the problem, and by no means heal it. Long term correction of Plantar Fasciitis is a two step process. 1. Heal the Damaged Fascia Ending the pain caused by Plantar Fasciitis requires stopping the cycle of inflammation. Class IV laser therapy is an excellent method for this, because it is presently the only modality that can both reduce inflammation and heal tissue simultaneously. Laser treatments at Align Healing Center are done with the K-laser 1200 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 five bronze panels depicting significant events in American History and a Statue of a soldier aiding and supporting the wounded. At the top of the AWM are two historic Lincoln quotes in the healing circle below the American Flag and MIA/POW Flag. Below at the base of the Memorial is the Freedom Wall with famous quotes making the All Wars Memorial an excellent site for school, scouting, history or other projects. Mark your calendar now for Monday – May 25th and plan to be there by 10:30 to hear the Danville Community Band. Questions? Contact VNVDV Memorial Day Chair / President Raymond La Rochelle at: Ray-L@ pacbell. net. This event requires many veterans to volunteer assisting to set-up chairs and shade for the community beginning at 8am for the arrival of guests at 10am.
and health. This creates an optimal healing environment that reduces inflammation, swelling, muscle spasms, stiffness and pain. As the injured area returns to normal, function is restored and pain is relieved. 2. Correct the Foot and Gait Mechanics This involves rehabilitation of spine as well as the arch of the foot. Arch rehabilitation is achieved by utilizing specific insoles and/or specific taping of the foot in order to re-establish proper motion of the arch while walking, then specific strengthening and stretching exercises are used to rehabilitate of the musculature of the foot and lower leg to ensure lasting results. At Align Healing Center we are having great success treating plantar fasciitis, sciatica, shoulder and neck pain, migraines, arthritis, tendonitis, carpal tunnel, post surgical pain, sports injuries and more; even if it’s longterm residual pain. Even 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 founder of Align Healing Center in Danville, CA. To set up a complimentary consult call 925.362.8283 or visit www.alignhealingcenter.com for more information.
The Valley Sentinel
page 5
Annual Awards honor businesses and nonprofits
By staff writer
On Thursday April 23, The Danville area Chamber of Commerce held its annual State of the Town and Community Awards luncheon at the Crow Canyon Country Club in Danville. Dan Ashley from ABC 7 News was the Master of Ceremonies for the event and introduced the Town of Danville’s panel consisting of Mayor Mike Doyle, Town Manager Joe Calabrigo, Community Development Director Tai Williams, and Police Chief Steve Simkins. The members of the panel each put attendees up to date on the current and ongoing projects and statistics for the Town. Joe Calabrigo, speaking on finance said that Danville property values are now beyond pre-recession levels and that sales tax is at an all time high. On Capital Improvements, Calabrigo mentioned several ongoing and future projects that are underway. “There are approximately $23 million in capital improvements underway in Danville which include various parking facility projects both in Town and at San Ramon valley High school which will be getting an additional 200 spaces. Numeruous projects at major park facilities including four new Bocce Ball courts and play structure renovations are slated. In sustainability, solar arrays at many Town facilities are saving about $200,000 per year in utility charges, and electrical charging stations have been
installed in two downtown parking lots. For more information on capital improvements the public is invited to attend planning commission meetings and get information from the Town’s website at www. danville.ca.gov. Police Chief Simkins started by thanking the business community for the trust and confidence in working together to make a safe and successful business environment in Danville. “Earlier in the year several downtown businesses were hit by commercial burglaries”, he said, and he related that the culprits are currently in custody. Simkins said that there are two kinds of crimes, Those that are committed against people (violent crimes) and those that involve property. Crimes against persons have fallen with a steady downtrend in the past few years. While there had been a downtrend in property crimes, though, there has been a rise in 2014 and 1015. He noted that that Danville is a “target rich environment and asks the community for help in securing valuables. In the early 2000’s, traffic accidents were in range of 500550. In 2011, they came down to 376, and 2014 down to 304. Simkins is hoping to further bring the numbers down below 300 going forward. The Police Department’s Annual report is available on the Town’s website and he See AWARDS page 11
Seniors page 6
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May 2015
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Most doctors, pharmacists, and other health care providers who work with Medicare are honest. Unfortunately, some aren’t. One common form of Medicare fraud is when Medicare is billed for health care services or benefits that you never received. Someone could have gotten access to your Medicare number and submitted a false claim. In some cases fraudsters pay Medicare beneficiaries to use their Medicare numbers. To prevent this from taking place, never share your Medicare number with anyone you don’t know and trust. Medicare fraud costs taxpayers and people with Medicare lots of money each year. So what can you do to help stop it? When you get health care services, write down the dates
on your calendar and save the receipts and statements you get from your doctors and other providers to check for mistakes. If you think you see an error, or you were billed for services you didn’t get, take these steps: • If you are in the Original Medicare program (where the federal government pays health care claims for you), check your monthly “Medicare Summary Notice” (MSN) to see if the applicable services were billed correctly to Medicare. The services and claims should match, like checks on a bank statement. If there are services, doctors, or suppliers that you don’t know and can’t reconcile, there may be a problem. • If you’re in a Medicare Advantage private health plan, check the statements you get from your plan. • If you’re unsure what services were billed, call and ask the doctor or other supplier for an itemized
this to you within 30 days. In any case, the sooner you see and report errors in your health care billing, the sooner we can help address and stop fraud. How do you report suspected fraud? If you’ve contacted the health care provider or supplier, and you suspect that Medicare is being charged for a service, device, or other supplies that you didn’t receive, or if you don’t recognize the doctor or other providers listed on the claim, here’s what to do: • Call the fraud hotline of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General at 1-800-HHS-TIPS (1-800-4478477). TTY users should call 1-800-377-4950. • Alert Medicare’s customer service team at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-6334227) that you have concerns or questions about information See MEDICARE page 15
Join us for our official opening. Introducing Brookdale Danville Formerly Emeritus® at Barrington Court
and Brookdale Danville Diablo Road Formerly Emeritus® at Diablo Lodge
You and your guest are invited to join us for tours, refreshments and a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony to celebrate the renaming of Emeritus at Barrington Court to Brookdale Danville and Emeritus at Diablo Lodge to Brookdale Danville Diablo Road. We invite you to come for a visit to celebrate our new name, and we’ll share with you all the amazing services and programs we offer at our exceptional community.
Thursday, May 28 | 5 to 7:30 p.m.
Come See What’s New Brookdale Danville
Formerly Emeritus® at Barrington Court Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care 400 West El Pintado | Danville, CA 94526 (925) -838-3020 RCFE # 75601257 24341-P1-0315-ROP SC
Ribbon Cutting at Brookdale Danville, 5:30 p.m. Ribbon Cutting at Brookdale Danville Diablo Road, 6 p.m. Complimentary drinks and appetizers
For reservations or more information, call the local community.
Brookdale Danville Diablo Road Formerly Emeritus® at Diablo Lodge Independent Living | Assisted Living 950 Diablo Road | Danville, CA 94526 (925) 838-8300
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RCFE # 075601390 BROOKDALE® and ALL THE PLACES LIFE CAN GOTM are trademarks of Brookdale Senior Living Inc., Nashville, TN, USA.
valleysentinel.com
May 2015
The Valley SenTinel
page 7
See Our Progress in the Bay Area Steve Tanti
Welding Crew Leader
“
“PG&E” refers to Pacific Gas and Electric Company, a subsidiary of PG&E Corporation. ©2015 Pacific Gas and Electric Company. All rights reserved. Paid for by PG&E shareholders.
PleasanTon residenT
Safety is a way of life for the employees here at PG&e. It feels great to know that I’m helping the community I live in every day.
”
At PG&E, our customers are our neighbors. The communities we serve as PG&E employees are where we live and work too. That’s why we’re investing $4.5 billion every year to enhance pipeline safety and strengthen our gas and electric infrastructure across northern and central California. It’s why we’re helping people and businesses gain energy efficiencies to help reduce their bills. It’s why we’re focused on developing the next generation of clean, renewable energy systems. Together, we are working to enhance pipeline safety and strengthen our gas and electric infrastructure—for your family and ours.
See the FActS IN the BAY AreA Replaced approximately 15 miles of gas transmission pipeline Invested more than $1 billion into electrical improvements Connected more than 62,000 rooftop solar installations
Spring Home and Garden page 8
The Valley SenTinel
May 2015
Easy Steps to Creating a Pollinator Friendly Backyard and Garden hives do well in dappled By Kayla Friedrichsen Spring has sprung, and with it, buds, bulbs, and other botanicals are emerging from the soil; there’s no denying it’s planting season. And, as seasonal allergy sufferers know all too well, it’s also pollination season. As they bring pollen from one flower to the next, the tireless efforts of honeybees remind one of the complex ecosystems and relationships that exist within a simple backyard - what better way to encourage the health of these relationships than to take action? Gardening for pollinators feeds the bees, and can be made even sweeter by the addition of a backyard beehive. While getting started in backyard beekeeping may seem daunting, it’s actually quite simple – with some equipment and slight initial effort a backyard hive thrives for years, working, pollinating, increasing productivity in the garden and producing honey. To start
a hive, the essentials are a suit and gloves, to protect the hands and body; a veil; a smoker, used to calm the bees in a harmless manner; and a beehive. These items ensure the safety of the honeybees and the beekeeper by preventing stings (honeybees die if they sting, and will only do so as a last resort). Most of beekeeping comes with experience, and the only way to engage with the hobby is to start learning. Planet Bee Foundation will be hosting free community workshops at Whole Foods Market stores around the Bay, with one at the Whole Foods Market in Oakland on May 17th at 10:00am. All “newbees” or interested persons are welcomed to join. Their website, planetbee.org/ share-the-buzz, has a list of upcoming free Introduction to Backyard Beekeeping workshops in the Bay Area. Placement of the hive makes a difference; backyard
Change is a
sunlight, facing southeast, so the bees get a healthy dose of morning sunlight. With a morning wake up, the bees will be encouraged to fly out and feast on the diverse flowers in a surrounding pollinator garden. Certain plants will attract pollinators more than others. Whether it’s based on color, scent, or shape, certain flowers are better suited to certain pollinators. Honeybees are “generalist” pollinators, meaning their body type and pollinating habits are well suited to a wide variety of flowers. To attract them, gardeners can pander to honeybees’ few preferences: honeybees are especially drawn to white, blue, purple, and pink flowers because they see in ultraviolet. While there are many plants that meet the criteria, rosemary, sage, lavender, verbena, oregano, redbud, and black-eyed Susan are especially popular with both bees and gardeners in the Bay.
valleysentinel.com Flowers provide nutritious sustenance for wild bees and other pollinators. Gardeners who choose to eliminate pesticides from their gardens create a safe space for all pollinators to eat freely – and providing healthy food for visiting pollinators can change the world, one bee at a time. For more information on planting pollinator friendly gardens or growing plants pesticide-free visit planetbee. org.
Photos Courtesy of Planet Bee Foundation
beautiful thing.
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Spring Home and Garden valleysentinel.com
May 2015
The Valley SenTinel
May in the Contra Costa Garden
By the Contra Costa Master Gardeners May Garden To Dos General Garden Care Check irrigation: unclog heads, make sure coverage hasn’t changed - repair as required. Change the time on irrigation clocks to water in the early morning. Deep soak trees. Control emerging weeds: hand pick, hoe, pour boiling water over them (carefully) or spray with a fatty acidderived herbicide such as Safer weed and grass killer. Renew mulch. To stop weeds and keep moisture levels consistent, mulches need to be 3” thick. Keep mulch pulled away from the trunks & root crowns of woody plants. Solarize soil in full sun areas where weeds went to seed last year. Aerate lawns, fertilize warm season grasses if not growing rapidly. Mow frequently, leaving grass as tall as you and your mower can stand. Remove lawns to save water and resources. Fruits & Vegetables Thin fruit. Stake or cage tomatoes that were planted last month. Check soil temperature before planting various summer crops. Soil thermometers are available from various suppliers. Plant seeds of beans, corn, melons and okra once soil temperatures are at least 65°F (18.3°C). Successive planting of beans and corn will extend your harvest. Plant seedlings of tomato,
Available for the reduced price of Turn your yard waste and kitchen scraps into nutrient-rich compost with the easy-to-use Soilsaver Composter.
eggplant, peppers, squash when soil is warm enough. Plant herbs in full sun with good drainage: basil, chives, oregano, parsley, rosemary, sage, thyme, cilantro, marjoram, borage. These do well in containers. Flowers & Landscaping Cut back the foliage of ornamental grasses before new growth emerges. Remove foliage of spring blooming bulbs only after it has turned brown. Apply iron chelate to acid-loving plants if chlorotic: citrus, azaleas, camellias, rhododendrons, Pieris. Acidic soil amendments will help lower soil pH. Purchase perennials and interesting annuals if you have enough water to keep them going. Great local sources abound! Garden Pests & Diseases Earwigs: Trap by placing moistened, tightly rolled newspaper or corrugated cardboard in the garden in the evening. In the morning, dispose of the paper and trapped insects. Another method of control is a covered container such as a small margarine tub with holes cut halfway up the sides. Pour in about an inch of soy sauce and a thin layer of vegetable oil in the container. Empty as needed. Remember, they eat aphids and other pests. Fireblight: This bacterial pest affects ornamentals in the rose family: Pyracantha, Cotoneaster, flowering pear, crabapple, mountain ash, hawthorne and fruit trees
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(apple, pear and quince). Prune to remove affected branches. Fruit tree borers: Paint trunks of fruit trees with 50/50 mix of white latex paint and water. The paint can often be picked up for free at the hazardous waste recycling center at Central Sanitary. Gophers: Ultrasonic devices, chewing gum, hair, urine, kitty litter and all the other “great” home remedies are ineffective. Snails & Slugs: Control with hand-picking, yeast traps or iron phosphate baits. Snapdragon rust: Forms unsightly dark brown or rust colored pustules or blisters on the leaves and stems. Keep your plants growing vigorously by watering and feeding properly. Other pests common in May include aphids, scale, powdery mildew, and coyotes. See below for UC IPM Pest Note links. Master Gardeners are trained volunteers for the University of California Cooperative Extension (UCCE). 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. For more information visit ccmg. ucdavis.edu.
Where experience makes a beautiful difference.
page 9
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The Valley SenTinel
May 2015
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2015 Bay Area
Equine Vet Camp
Giddy-Up And Get A Head Start In Equine Veterinary Medicine!
August 1-7, 2015 8am - 5pm Bay Area Equestrian Club Stables Walnut Creek Commuter & Residential options available Watch the 2014 Vet Camp Movie!
www.baeclub.org 925.922.2908
valleysentinel.com
Bay Area Equine Vet Camp A summer treat for animal lovers and aspiring veterinarians By Linda Rimac Colberg Giddy up and get a head start in veterinary medicine! That’s the message from Bay Area Equine Vet Camp Director Shanna Gage Lai, who manages the intensive seven-day, equine-focused summer camp designed for middle and high school students and college undergrads. Now in its second year, BAE Vet Camp is the only camp of its kind in Northern California, and a welcomed camp option for horse lovers who are interested in the science of veterinary medicine. Vet Camp was developed by Lai and her daughter Taylor, 13, both accomplished equestrians who want to offer students an alternative to the more traditional equestrian camp—one focused on equine medicine, rather than horseback riding. Designed in collaboration with noted veterinarian, specialist surgeon, author, and camp mentor Jamie Textor, DVM, PhD, Vet Camp offers students up close and personal, handson experiences in the real world of veterinary medicine through workshops, facility tours, mentor presentations, guest speakers, and independent and team projects. Based in Walnut Creek, at the Bay Area Equestrian Club Stables in the shadow of Mount Diablo, campers will be on the go, traveling to the University of California,
Davis, School of Veterinary Medicine; Stanford University Red Barn Equestrian Center; Peninsula Equine Medical Center; University of California, Berkeley; Borges Ranch in Walnut Creek; and Sherman Ranch in Pleasanton. They will meet professional cowboy and champion saddle bronc specialist Nick LaDuke; avid equestrian and attorney Amara Morrison; teacher and youth advocate Carlee Scheinfeld; architect and author Cathy Remick, who will help students design an equine medical facility or equestrian center; and Lauren Locke, with African Conservation Experience, an organization that places students and volunteers on wildlife conservation projects in southern Africa. “It’s important to us to offer the full educational experience, along with the fun and camaraderie of the summer camp experience,” says Lai. “So we’ve incorporated STEM [science, technology, engineering & math] into the week, as well as art, writing, music, and yoga and Pilates for equestrians.” Students will learn about horse breeding and racing; meet rescue horses and learn about their rehabilitation; research and debate controversial veterinary issues; and try their hand at driving a pony cart. An added plus, says Lai: Students can use their hours spent at BAE Vet Camp
on their academic résumé and college applications for veterinary school, which require practical and clinical experience working with a veterinarian. “This year we’ve planned some extra fun activities—I’m personally very excited,” says Lai. “Camp mentors Kevin and Martina Keith are bringing several exotic animals— including monkeys, baboons, and a pot bellied pig—to demonstrate how to interact and handle exotics. And, we’ve recently acquired a beautiful purebred Arabian mare, A Time to Dance, a five-time National Champion. Campers will meet her and her trainer Tamera Collins Grinton and learn about the veterinary and training needs of a highly competitive, top equine athlete. This is truly a rare opportunity.” Visit the BAE Vet Camp website, www.baeclub. org, for more details and registration—and check out the 2014 BAE Vet Camp movie. Bay Area Equine Vet Camp August 1–7, 2015; 8am– 5pm Bay Area Equestrian Club Stables Walnut Creek, CA Commuter $2,000; Residential $3,000 Registration closes July 15, 2015 www.baeclub.org 925.922.2908 baecvet@gmail.com
Switching to Organic Sports fields to see organic fertilizers moving forward By Town of Danville staff writer For the past several months the Town has been in the process of transitioning from the use of traditional fertilizers to organic materials on all Townmaintained sports fields. This environmentally friendly option will yield many positive results, including reduced chemical usage and increased irrigation efficiency. Soil samples were taken from every sports field last year and analyzed by a soil and turf expert. The results of this evaluation were used to create site-specific
programs for each location, which include a multi-phase gypsum application process that will loosen the soil and release unutilized nutrients. Collectively, this will allow more water to penetrate the soil and the grass roots to grow deeper, which will result in more efficient water usage and improved field conditions. Once the gypsum treatment process is complete the organic fertilizers will be applied to the sports fields. In addition to being more environmentally friendly
than traditional fertilizers, the organics do not need to be applied as frequently and are expected to result in reduced water and material costs. The initial phase of the transition to organic fertilizers has already resulted in notably improved sports field conditions. This, as well as reduced costs, water and chemical usage, make this project one Danville residents can be proud of. For more information contact Maintenance Supervisor Dave Casteel at dcasteel@danville.ca.gov or (925)314-3434.
valleysentinel.com
May 2015
The Valley SenTinel
Big Break’s May Programs Highlight Delta Ecology, Wildlife, Crafts and Fun water quality using state of the By Beverly Lane, East Bay Regional Parks District
Back in 1928 a levee gave way that was holding back the waters of the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta, flooding an asparagus farm near Oakley to a depth of about five feet. Locals named the resulting expanse of water Big Break. Big Break remains mostly open water today, and about 1,650 acres of it are preserved as Big Break Regional Shoreline It opened in 2012 as East Bay Regional Park District’s newest visitor center. It’s also the first and only public facility in the entire Delta that offers nature interpretive programs about the Delta. And it’s used for meetings by various Delta commissions and committees that are planning for the Delta’s future. Programs at Big Break highlight the Delta’s ecology and rich variety of wildlife. Mammals including beavers, river otters and muskrats inhabit the area and have been captured on video through motion-activated cameras. Bird life includes great blue herons, egrets, pelicans, cormorants, grebes and coots, to mention just a few. All kinds of fish inhabit the Delta waterways. In sum, the importance of the Delta to California’s natural environment cannot be overstated. Big Break Visitor Center has interactive exhibits AWARDS from page 5 though, there has been a rise in 2014 and 1015. He noted that that Danville is a “target rich environment and asks the community for help by securing valuables. In the early 2000’s, traffic accidents were in range of 500550. In 2011, they came down to 376, and 2014 down to 304. Simkins is hoping to further bring the numbers down below 300 going forward. The Police Department’s Annual report is available on the Town’s website and he encourages everyone to give it a read. The 2014 recipients of the DACC Community Awards were: Citizen of the Year: Ken Behring has literally changed the face of the Valley bringing upscale housing, shopping,
depicting both the natural and cultural history of the Delta. Nearby is a unique feature – a 1,200-square-foot map of the Delta that demonstrates how water flows through the region. The map is a walk-on display. Other attractions include a 100-foot pier for fishing and wildlife viewing, a spot from which canoeists and kayakers can launch to explore Big Break, an amphitheater, a sand play area for kids, and picnic tables.
There are lots of trail connections, too. Big Break Regional Trail extends east along the shoreline for several miles to the Marsh Creek Regional Trail, which in turn leads south through Oakley and Brentwood to the Delta De Anza Regional Trail. These are flat, paved trails. They are closed to motorized traffic, but open to hikers, cyclists and equestrians. Big Break’s naturalist staff offers programs throughout the year. Here’s a schedule for coming weeks: From 9 to 10 a.m. every Saturday and Sunday you can help the staff test the Delta a world renowned museum and a charitable organization that has bettered the lives of millions. His Wheelchair Foundation, founded in 2000 will give away its one millionth wheelchair in 2015! Business of the Year: Republic Services has provided solid waste and recycling services for Danville businesses and residents for over 20 years. They have supported local organizations including the DACC, San Ramon Kiwanis Club, Veterans Memorial Building, Rotary Club of Danville, Sentinels of Freedom, Danville Little League, Museum of the San Ramon Valley, and more. Employee of the Year: Nancy LaBelle has been Executive Director of the Down Syndrome Connection of the Bay Area for the past 8 years. Thanks to Nancy
art equipment. Results go into a regional database that is used by scientific researchers and water managers. From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday, there are arts and crafts activities for all ages at the visitor center, with a different theme each week. Fish are the focus of a program from 2 to 3 p.m. Saturday, May 16. Learn how to identify the many varieties in Delta waters. On Sunday, May 17 explore the Big Break Regional Trail on a walk with naturalist Ashley Grenier. Naturalist Kevin Damstra will host a coffee talk from 8:30 to 9 a.m. on Wednesday, May 20, and the third Wednesday of every subsequent month. From tunnels to farming to fish stocks, the topic is current events that are affecting the Delta. It’s all about levees and marshlands in a program from 10:30 a.m. to noon on Saturday, May 23. And the Big Break bird hunt (for observation only) is from 2 to 3 p.m. on Sunday, May 24. On Sunday, June 14 there’s a family campfire from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Bring a picnic dinner to enjoy before the campfire program, which will include s’mores. Big Break is located at 69 Big Break Road off Main Street in Oakley. For more information on the park and its programs, call 888-327-2757, ext. 3050.
and her amazing staff, the organization has tripled its membership and budget; and Nancy has been the driving force behind the success of increased support, development, education and independence for people of all ages with Down syndrome. Non-Profit Organization of the Year: Kids’ Country is a home-grown organization that provides educational enrichment programs for elementary school students in the SRV Unified School District. In its 30 year history, Kids’ Country has grown from an after school child care provider at one elementary school to over 13 providing services for nearly 2,000 children. It has embarked on a $9.5 million capital campaign to build the state-of-the art Kid’s Country Center for the Arts & Sciences in Danville.
page 11
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For additional Community Events visit: www.ValleySentinel.com Please email information about your events to info@valleysentinel.com COMMUNITY EVENTS 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 Wednesday, April-Sept, Windermere 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 2nd Saturday of each month. 10am-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. Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction Series: For cancer patients and their caregivers. Tuesdays, March 3 through April 28 1:15-3:15pm. Meditation practice aids in achieving emotional balance, managing pain, and using the wisdom of the body and mind. It is a powerful way to manage stress, be present in the moment, and enhance quality of life. Cancer Support Community, 3276 McNutt Ave, Walnut Creek. (925) 933-0107. First Thursday Shop Local Day and Night 10am-7pm. Join in the fun in downtown Danville at the First Thursday Shopping and Dining Event. Downtown Hartz Avenue, Danville. www.danville.ca.gov. 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. Wine and Chocolate Stroll May 7 6-9pm. Danville Chocolates, Sweet Street and other local chocolate shops will showcase their decadent creations while Livermore Valley wineries pour their best vintages—all against the backdrop of music and merriment. Your $35 ticket includes a commemorative glass, wine tasting, food bites, and entertainment in Historic Downtown Danville. discoverdanvilleca.com. Spring Faire May 9 2-5pm. The City of Dublin presents the annual Spring Faire: a French-Parisian style festival that is in celebration of Mother’s Day
as well as the arrival of spring. Admission is free for this family friendly event. Heritage Park and Museums, 6600 Donlon Way, Dublin. dublinca.gov/index.aspx?. Fun on the Farm - “Moms and their Fans” May 9 10am-2pm. It is time to get ready for Mother’s Day and show Mom you are one of her biggest fans. Come to the Forest Home Farm to pen a letter to mom telling her why she is special, and bring her along to see some actual fans. The Hand Fan Museum will be here displaying fans dating from 1850-1950 with a few that are even older! Free. 19953 San Ramon Valley Blvd, San Ramon. Start a New Tradition-Make Memories with Mom May 10 10am-4pm. Come make memories with Mom at the Ruth Bancroft Garden. Relax in the Garden and pull together a picnic for everyone to enjoy. $10/adults; $8/students and seniors; free for RBG members and accompanying children up to age 18. 1552 Bancroft Road, Walnut Creek. walnut-creek.com. Walnut Creek Garden Club Meeting May 11 9:30am-12pm. The Walnut Creek Garden Club will hold its general meeting at the Gardens at Heather Farm. The program will be a guided tour of Heather Farm. If you’re interested in becoming a member, please join! No gardening experience required.1540 Marchbanks Road, Walnut Creek. mslittle44@gmail.com. 3rd Annual Hump Day Happy Hour Speed Networking May 13 5:30-8:30pm. Ready for a fresh approach to speed networking? Forget about elevator speeches, discover a fun and engaging way for you to get to know lots of business professionals with our new format! Laptop Lounge, 1701 N. California Blvd, Walnut Creek. walnut-creek.com. Car Show May 16 10am-3pm. Elks Lodge of Walnut Creek is presenting its 1st Annual Car Show! Register your car for the show by May 9th. All participants receive a certificate of participation along with a chance to win an award. $25. 1475 Creekside Dr., Walnut Creek. walnut-creek.com. The Parkinson’s Network of Mt. Diablo Support Group Meeting May 16 9am-12pm. Meet with the PNMD (Parkinson’s Network of Mt. Diablo) to participate in a range of informational discussions about Parkinson’s Disease. Share your experiences with others enduring the same disease. Grace Presbyterian Church, 2100 Tice Valley Blvd., Walnut Creek. 925-939-4210. Animals on Broadway May 17 10:30am-4pm. Join ARF in celebration of the special bond between pets and people at this spectacular, free community festival! . ARF’s Adoption Mobile and other rescue groups will have furry friends of all sizes available for adoption. Heather Farm Community Park, 301 N. San Carlos Drive, Walnut Creek. walnut-creek.com. Doggie Night May 21 5-8pm. Danville’s Doggie Night offers fun for you and your four-legged friend. Check out the variety of vendors through the pet fair where you’ll meet pet sitters, photographers, trainers, veterinarians, and more. Doggie Night will begin at Molly’s Puppurr-ee at 425 Hartz Ave. discoverdanvilleca.com. Monthly Vintage and Craft Market May 24 10:30-2:30pm. Support small, local business and shop for unique items at our monthly craft & vintage market. Create community and have a good time. Parking Lot outside of Suburban Peacock, 3150 Danville Blvd., Alamo. suburbanpeacock.com. 2015 6th Annual Celebrity Golf and Bocce Ball Tournament June 1 8:30am-10pm. Golfers will take on one of the most desirable courses to play in the San Francisco Bay Area. Proceeds will directly support the Fallen Heroes Scholarship Fund. Please join for this memorable tribute for our 2014 Peace Officers and
Firefighters Line of Duty Deaths in California. Diablo Country Club, 1700 Clubhouse Road, Diablo. thefallenheroes.org. First Thursday Shop Local Day and Night June 4 10am-7pm. Join in the fun downtown at the First Thursday Shopping and Dining Event. The first Thursday of each month merchants will extend their hours in Historic Downtown Danville, so residents and visitors can shop, dine and play with friends and family. discoverdanvilleca.com. SENIORS Danville Seniors Unless otherwise noted, the following activities are held at the Danville Senior Center, Veterans Memorial Building, 115 E. Prospect, Danville. For more information call 925-314-3490 or visit www.ci.danville.ca.us/Recreation/Seniors. Sneaker Trips: The Town of Danville’s Senior Sneakers program is a great way for you to make new friends and get out and around the greater Bay Area. There’s always something new to see and learn. All trips meet at the Danville Park & Ride lot unless otherwise noted in the trip details. Reserve your spot at the Danville Senior Center, 115 E. Prospect, Danville, CA 94526, on or before the registration date beginning at 8:30am. Information: 925-314-3400 or visit www.ci.danville.ca.us/Recreation/Seniors/ Senior_Sneaker_Trips. 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: 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 Ribbon Cutting - Adora Bella Salon May 7 5:30-6:30pm. Adora Bella Salon has expanded! Come celebrate their new space! 480 San Ramon Valley Blvd. Suite D., Danville. danvilleareachamber.com. Tri-Valley Consultants Forum May 13 7:15am-9:3am. Join area business consultants at a breakfast meeting featuring author-coach-radio personality Steven
Please email your calendar events to the Sentinel at Info@valleysentinel.com by 5pm on the 20th of the month preceding publication month. Inclusion in the calendar pages is at the sole discretion of Sentinel Newspapers, Inc.
valleysentinel.com Campbell speaking on “Mentoring Your Mind for Marketing”. Crow Canyon Country Club, 711 Silver Lake Dr, Danville. Make reservations at tvcfconsultants.org. Leadership & Management in a Changing World, with Keith Woods May 14 11:30am-1:30pm. In this thoughtprovoking luncheon presentation, Keith Woods will examine the changes in business, government, and nonprofit organizations that have led to new challenges for Managers and Chief Executives. $30 Chamber members, $40 non-members. Crow Canyon Country Club, 711 Silver Lake Drive, Danville. sanramon.org. Ribbon Cutting and Open House Gladstone Clinic May 14 5-8pm. Join for a Ribbon Cutting and VIP CoolSculpt Event at the Gladstone Clinic. Get mini consultations on the above procedures as well as Facelift and Mini Face lift, Neck lift, eyelid and liposuction under local anesthesia. 101 Park Place, #200, San Ramon. sanramon.org. RSVP to (925) 8376000. Third Thursday Mixer - Museum of the San Ramon Valley May 21 5:30-7pm. Please join for the San Ramon Chamber’s Third Thursday Mixer at the Museum of the San Ramon Valley in Danville! Meet other business owners for an opportunity to network and make your business more visible. $5 for members and $20 for non-members. sanramon.org. New and Future Member Orientation May 26 4-5pm. Join and learn about the various Chamber services that can benefit your business. Ambassadors and the Chamber’s President/CEO, Stewart Bambino, will be there to greet you. Free. RSVP required. Bishop Ranch 6, 2400 Camino Ramon Conference Room 158/K, San Ramon. sanramon.org. Ribbon Cutting - Brookdale Danville and Brookedale Danville Diablo Road May 28 5:30-6:30pm. Join for the ribbon cutting at Brookdale Danville and Brookdale Danville Diablo, formally Emeritus and Diablo Lodge. Come check out the newly named locations. Start at one ribbon cutting and end up at Brookdale Danville Diablo! 400 El Pintado and 950 Dialblo Rd., Danville. 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, Walnut Creek. Information / reservations call (925) 933-0107 or visit www.cancersupportcommunity. net. Fibro? CFIDS? Chronic Pain? If these are familiar to you, call about the San Ramon Valley support group for people who need support, information, classes and friendship from people
May 2015 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 925-829-8770. Hospice of the East Bay Support groups and workshops for adults, children and teens experiencing grief after the death of a loved one. Classes will be offered at Hospice’s Administrative Offices: 3470 Buskirk Avenue; Pleasant Hill and the Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation: 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek. Pre-registration is required for all groups and classes, except our drop-in group. To register, please call Hospice of the East Bay: (925) 887-5681. Information: www. hospiceeastbay.org Wind ‘n Sea Sailing Club Sailing training classes take place at members’ homes. Information: Call Jan at 925-837-3381.
RECURRING Mondays: The Walnut Creek Garden Club Meets the second Monday of each month. The general 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. Faz Restaurant, 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 11:30am. Meets the third Monday of each month, except for May and December. If you are retired or semi-retired and want to make new friends, participate in fun activities and better enjoy your leisure time, we welcome you to join with us. 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. Meets every Tuesday. New members welcome. Danville Women’s Club, 242 W. Linda Mesa Ave., Danville. Information: danvilleam.freetoasthost.org. Danville/Sycamore Valley Rotary 7am. Meets every Tuesday morning. Crow Canyon Country Club, Danville. Information: dsvrotary.com. Diablo View Toastmasters 8:15-9:15am. Meets every Tuesday. CMG Mortgage, 4th Floor Conference Room, 3160 Crow Canyon Rd., San Ramon. Information: 4160. toastmastersclubs.org.
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. In a nurturing small group, you are encouraged to process feelings of grief resulting from the loss of pet. Register with Vicki at 925-8875681 or vickis@hospiceeastbay.org. ARF, 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: arf.net. Prostate Cancer Group 7:30–9pm. Meets 2nd Tuesday of the month. Drop-in prostate cancer group for men and their loved ones. San Ramon Regional Medical Center, South Building, West Day Room. 6001 Norris Canyon Road, San Ramon. Information: 925.933.0107 or www.twc-bayarea.org/communityprograms.html. Wednesdays: Walnut Creek Toastmasters 7-8:15pm. Meets every Wednesday. 1660 Oak Park Blvd., Pleasant Hill. Information: walnutcreek. freetoasthost.net Hospice of the East Bay Drop-in Bereavement Support 4:30-6pm, 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of every month. 3470 Buskirk Avenue; Pleasant Hill. Information: 925-8875681 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. Room W204 at Diablo Valley College,1690 Watermill Road, San Ramon. Information: danvilletoastmasters1785.com. San Ramon Valley Rotary 7pm. Meets every Wednesday. Blackhawk Country Club, 599 Blackhawk Club Drive, 711 Silver Lake Drive, Danville. Info: sanramonvalleyrotary.com. Danville Lions Club 7pm. Meets the first and third Wednesday each month at The Brass Door at 2154 San Ramon Valley Blvd. in San Ramon. 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. 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
The Valley SenTinel Meeting and lunch. Meets the 3rd Wed. of each month. $23 includes luncheon, guest speaker and a great opportunity to socialize with at least 120 other retirees from the San Ramon Valley. To reserve a space, please email us by Friday prior to luncheon at www.info@SIR128.com. Location: San Ramon Golf Club, 9430 Fircrest Lane, San Ramon. Information: www.SIR128.com. Blue Star Moms Monthly Meeting April 8 7-8:30pm. Join in this meeting to participate in this support/service group for sons/daughters serving in the military. Danville Veterans Memorial Building, 400 Hartz Ave, Danville. bluestarmoms.org. Diablo Valley Quilters 7-9pm. Meets the third Wednesday of every month. No charge for guests. Danville Congregational Church, 989 San Ramon Valley Blvd., Danville. Information: diablovalleyquilters. com. Veterans of Foreign Wars 7:00pm. 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: Rotary Club of San Ramon 11:45am. Meets every Thursday. Crow Canyon Country Club, 711 Silver Lake Drive, Danville. Information: sanramonrotary.org. San Ramon Valley Newcomers 11:30am-2pm. Meets the third Thursday of every month with a featured guest speaker at a local TriValley restaurant. $12. New and longtime adult residents are welcome. Reservations/information: 925-8379600 or www.srvnc.com. Clutterers Anonymous 7-8pm. Meets the 2nd and 4th Thursday of every month. St. Luke’s Lutheran Church room 3, 2 491 San Miguel Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: 925-736-8627. Diablo Valley Lions Club 7:30pm. Meets the 1st, 3rd, and
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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: Barb Miller at bajumil@yahoo.com or Donna Hill at hillmom3@comcast.net Saturdays: Diablo Region of the Porsche Club of America 7:30-9am. Meets every Saturday. Buttercup Bar and Grill, 660 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek. Information: diablo-pca.org. Parkinson’s Disease Support Group 9am. 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) 254-8349 or jgriehl@gmail. com. Caregivers meet at same time in Oak Room of Grace Church. Information: Howard Zalkin at 925 939 4210 or Ronnie Wanetick at 925 933 6357 Free. All are welcome. 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. Afterwards, visit shops and restaurants in Blackhawk Plaza. Blackhawk Museum; 3700 Blackhawk Plaza Circle; Danville. Information: www. blackhawkmuseum.org.
Help Wanted Sr. IT Infrastructure Engineer: Bach. in Computer Info. Sys., Computer Sci., or rltd. & 2 yr. rltd. exp. CV to: Bank of the West, 2527 Camino Ramon, San Ramon, CA 94583. ATTN: H.R. or email careers@bankofthewest.com. EEO. Position in San Ramon, CA.
Community News & Information Danville • Blackhawk Alamo • Diablo • San Ramon
Publisher/Editor - Denise Rousset Chief Financial Officer - Jeff Gummere Advertising Manager - Victoria Zetterquist Graphic Designer - Laurie Prindle Auto - David & Judy Colman Contributing Writer - Joan Trezek Web Support - ewebsiteservices.com Intern - Isabella Ordaz, MVHS For advertising, Call Victoria Zetterquist
925-820-6047
390 Diablo Road, Suite 145 Danville, CA 94526
www.valleysentinel.com
page 14
The Valley SenTinel
AUTO March 2009 May 2015
2015 LEXUS RC350 2DR COUPE By David and Judy Colman
Short of a tech session at the dealership, there are few better ways to learn the secrets of your vehicle than to wash and dry it yourself. The all new Lexus RC350 provided just such an opportunity for driveway therapy. The complexity of this coupe’s shape defies easy description. Every facet of its voluptuous body is so thoroughly sculpted that there are no flat surfaces anywhere. Running your hands over its sinuous flanks helps you understand what a sleek facade Lexus stylists have devised to cheat the wind. In many ways, this coupe pays homage to the outrageously sleek $400,000 LF-A supercar Lexus produced in very limited numbers several years ago. If your RC350 happens to be painted Molten Pearl (metallic orange), like our test vehicle, you will have such a show stopper on your hands that slower cars will pull over to let you pass, after taking one amazed look in their rear view mirror. Although the RC’s double trapezoid “spindle”
grill is overly fussy, the rest of the design brief is stunningly effective. The RC tested here is the V6 model, which retails for a base price of just $42,790, and an all inclusive price of $53,140. The extra ten thousand goes for such niceties as an “F Sport Package” ($3,985) a Navigation System ($1,530), a Moonroof ($1,100) and a very pricey Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS, $1,900). You can probably live without VGRS, but the F Sport group is essential to defining the coupe’s character. From a performance standpoint, the F Sport’s most important inclusions are Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS), and fat wheels with sticky tires. Up front, you get 8 x 19 inch F Sport rims with 235/40R19 Dunlop SP Sport tires, while rear rims measure 9 x 19 inches and carry 265/35R19 Dunlops. Clearly, Lexus is going after potential BMW and Audi buyers with this F Sport Package, which transforms a good handling
coupe into a premium back road weapon. The package also includes heavily side bolstered, extremely supportive front seats that are both heated and ventilated. A multi-function steering wheel, electrically adjustable for height and reach, completes the F group upgrade. If there’s a chink in this coupe’s armor, it lies under the hood, where a 3.5 liter V6 makes just 306hp and 277lb.-ft. of torque. Coupled to a sweet, paddle-shifted 8 speed automatic transmission, the V6 provides excellent throttle response in 1st, 2nd and 3rd gears, but once you shift into the taller ratios of 4th through 8th, the moderately powerful engine has a tough time matching the vivid acceleration on tap in the lower gears. If you’re after true supercar poke, opt for the 467hp V8 available in the RC F, a BMW M4 eater which retails for a cool 20 grand more than the base price of our RC350. As you would expect in a coupe with the refinement of the F Sport Package, handling
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is excellent. But in order to coax maximum proficiency out of the car, you must first learn the secret handshake to configure it to your needs. A large, knurled knob on the center console allows you to tailor the Adaptive Variable Suspension to your taste, by rotating the knob through 4 stages ranging from “Eco” to “Sport+”. Even when you slot into “Sport+,” however, you will find that Lexus provides an overly assertive nanny that constantly corrects your enthusiasm by killing the engine at inappropriate junctures or applying the brakes when it judges you need them. To avoid these intrusions, you need to disengage “Traction Control” by depressing a button located just aft of the AVS knob. Although the Owner’s Manual states that a notation will appear on the TFT screen reading “Expert,” we never elicited this display. Regardless, once you’ve gone through all these pre-configuration measures, the RC350 is good to go, and go fast. With all systems maximized for
DIABLO MOTORS
instant gratification, this coupe becomes extremely responsive. The expensive VGRS steering option buttons down steering control, immediate throttle response kicks in, and the suspension vectors itself into closer proximity to the pavement. This Kabuki flyer will never be shamed by any German sedan on any back road. The downside is that you have to reconfigure the RC for maximum performance every time you re-start it. The upside is that this exotic looking BMW slayer puts you in the driver’s seat for thousands less than you’ll pay for a similar Bimmer. 2015 Lexus Rc350 2 Door Coupe Engine: 3.5 Liter V6, 24 Valve Dohc, Direct And Port Injection, Variable Valve Timing Horsepower: 306hp Torque: 277lb.-Ft. Fuel Consumption: 19 Mpg City/28 Mpg Highway Price As Tested: $53,140 Hypes: Arresting Looks, Finely Tuned Chassis Gripes: Hard Backseat Access, Obnoxious GrillStar Rating: 9 Stars Out Of 10
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$18,900 2006 Mercedes CLS500 Sport Sedan
2012 Mercedes E350 AMG Sport Sedan
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valleysentinel.com
May 2015
Contra Costa Libraries more relevant than ever
The valley Sentinel
page 15
New Location for The Rouge Cosmetics
By Candace Anderson, Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors
As a County Supervisor, I appreciate the value of our community services. In an increasingly digital world, our libraries may seem obsolete to some. To the contrary, they serve as a tremendous educational and cultural resource to our communities. Since my district in Contra Costa has some of the newest and most comprehensive library buildings and programs in the County, I thought it would be timely to highlight them and some of the technology available throughout our County system. Last year, the County welcomed new head librarian, Jessica Hudson, who has brought new energy and a technology-focus needed to drive the Contra Costa Library (CCCL) to even greater achievements. In recent years, CCCL has brought numerous new programs and services to its citizens through technology including Discover & Go, a downloadable museum pass service, Remember & Go, a digital repository for historic images and artifacts of Contra Costa County (in partnership with multiple local historical societies), and Library-a-GoGo, the Library’s book lending machines in some BART stations and remote areas of the County, reaching those not able to visit a library. The Library also offers downloadable magazines to read on your computer, tablet, or smartphone through its subscription to Flipster. One could also download a book from the Library’s growing collection of eBooks and eAudiobooks. New titles are added monthly, in various formats. There is also access to a significant amount of online research materials. MEDICARE from page 6 appearing on your MSN. Did you know that there’s a program that works with Medicare beneficiaries around the country to fight fraud? It’s called the Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) Program. The SMP Program educates and empowers people with Medicare and their families to take an active role in detecting and preventing health care fraud and abuse. SMP not only protects people with Medicare, it also helps
More recent additions to the Library’s website include a vehicle maintenance and auto repair database called Chilton Library, and Safari Technical eBooks where you’ll find basic computer programming books and instructional videos. All of this eContent and more can be found on the Contra Costa County Library website at ccclib.org. New technology themed programming continues to flourish and grow based on the needs of the Library’s users. San Ramon Libraries The main San Ramon Library is located in the Marketplace Shopping Center across the street from the San Ramon Community Center and is gearing up for a major remodel. It includes a large children’s area with a separate story room, teen area, public access computers, and free wireless Internet access. San Ramon is particularly proud of its jazz collection and annual jazz concerts. Also in San Ramon, the Dougherty Station Library is a joint-use library serving the needs of San Ramon’s growing population and the new Diablo Valley College campus. The 11,600 square foot building was designed to incorporate new technology and efficient service. The library includes unique seating areas for young people and families, a community room for library programs, study rooms, a computer lab, free wireless Internet access, and 44 computers for public use. For more than 20 years, the volunteer San Ramon Library Foundation, Friends of the Libraries, has provided financial support for materials, programs and equipment to enhance the services of the Library. They fund cultural, educational, and children’s programs, and half the cost of the Sunday hours of
operation. If you are interested in volunteering at the library or with the foundation, email them at info@ sanramonlibraryfriends.org. Danville Library The Danville Library houses over 78,000 children’s, teens and adult materials. Along with public computer terminals, Early Literacy Computers are pre-loaded with many fun and interactive activities for children ages 2 – 8 to help them develop their reading skills. Library staff regularly offers educational programs for all ages including author presentations, story times, children’s performances, computer workshops, book discussion groups and teen programming. The library is also proud of unique services such as Books for the Homebound, Stories-to-Go preschool program, and oneon-one computer instruction. Additional programs, materials and library hours are provided by support from the Friends of the Danville Library and the Endowment Fund. The Friends have contributed more than half a million dollars to make sure the Danville Library is able to respond to the community’s needs. To volunteer or get any questions about the library answered, call (925) 938-7323. To read the complete article about the Contra Costaq Conty libraries visit www. valleysentinel.com. My office is here to serve the residents of Contra Costa County District 2, which includes San Ramon, Danville, Alamo, Walnut Creek, Saranap, Parkmead, Lafayette, Moraga, Canyon and Orinda. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if we can provide you with additional information on this topic or on other County issues. I can be reached at SupervisorAndersen@bos. cccounty.us or 925-957-8860.
preserve Medicare. There’s an SMP Program in every state, the District of Columbia, Guam, U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico. You can contact your local SMP Program to get personalized counseling, find out about community events in your area, or volunteer. For more information or to find your local SMP Program, visit smpresource.org, or call 1-877808-2468. You can also call 1-800-MEDICARE. Keep in mind that every tip counts. Medicare takes all
reports of suspected fraud seriously. When you report fraud, you may not hear of an outcome right away. It takes time to investigate and build a case. Be assured that your information is helping us protect Medicare and you. 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 (1-800-6334227).
On Tuesday, April 14, the Danville Area Chamber of Commerce held a ceremonial ribbon cutting at the new location of The Rouge Cosmetics, Fine Cosmetics & Skin Care. The boutique recently moved from its previous location on Hartz Way, to the new one at 145 E. Prospect Ave., Ste. 100 in
downtown Danville. Owner Theresa Taylor-Grutzeck can be seen here with the giant scissors with Mayor Mike Doyle and a host of others who were there to celebrate. For information about the boutique, call (925) 736-3900 or visit their website at www. therougecosmetics.com. Photo by Victoria Zetterquist
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The Valley SenTinel
May 2015
valleysentinel.com