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always for the community VOL 24 NO 5
Mau 2019
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SPOTLIGHT
Concert featuring Beethoven’s Symphony No. 6 (Pastoral) with participation by members of the San Ramon Valley High School orchestra Danville students Gabriella DugganCochran, Ethan Yoo and Emily Martin, members of the San Ramon Valley High School Orchestra, join the Diablo Symphony Orchestra in Beethoven’s glorious Pastoral Symphony on May 19 at 2:00 pm at the Lesher
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On Saturday, April 13, families gathered at Danville’s Front Street Community center to celebrate Earth Day. This was a free, informative event for all ages and included Nature with Peanuts from the Charles M. Schultz Museum, interactive educational mobile exhibits from East Bay Regional Park District, information on the new MCE Clean Energy effort and a nature walk with Friends of San Ramon Creek. Photo is of a previous Earth Day celebration, courtesy of the Town of Danville.
The Belted Kingfisher By James M. Hale
The Belted Kingfisher (Megaceryle alcyon) is a fascinating bird species that is a year-round resident in Contra Costa County. They most likely had their origins from an ancestor that colonized the Americas. In 1758, the Swedish naturalist Carl Linnaeus was the first to formally describe the species in his tenth edition of his Systema Naturae. The genus Megaceryle is from the ancient Greek for “great, fabulous sea-bird”. The specific epithet alcyon, is Latin for “kingfisher”. The oldest known Kingfisher fossil is two million years old from Alachua County, Florida. The Belted Kingfisher is the only kingfisher commonly found in the northern United States and Canada. It breeds near inland bodies of water, or along the coasts across most of the United States, Canada, and Alaska. Northern birds migrate south to the southern United States,
Mexico, and Central America, during the fall when the water freezes, to avoid inclement weather. It is a permanent resident in warmer parts of its range. The Belted Kingfisher is a stocky, medium-sized bird with a wingspan of up to two feet. Large individuals may reach fourteen inches in length and weigh up to a half pound. Females are slightly larger than males. Common features to many kingfisher species are the large head with a shaggy crest, and long, heavy, black bill with a grey base. Both the male and female Belted Kingfisher have a slate blue head, large white collar, a large blue band on the breast, and white underparts. The back and wings are slate blue with black feather tips with little white tips. It is
unusual that only the adult females have a rufous band accenting across their upper belly and extending down their flanks. Juveniles of both sexes feature the rufous accent band. Juvenile males have mottled bands while juvenile females have thinner rufous bands. The Belted Kingfisher is sexually dichromatic, with the males more brightly colored than the females.
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The loud, raucous, rattling call of the Belted Kingfisher is immediately recognizable, and identifies the species. They are frequently seen prominently perched on their favorite “watchpoints” close to water. These tree branches, posts, and utility wires give the Belted Kingfisher a vantage point for
Spring Home & Garden pages 8-9
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Mau 2019
valleysentinel.com fashioned Broadway fun! $10. Dougherty Valley Performing Arts Center, 10550 Albion Rd. (Cross Street Bollinger Canyon Rd.) Located on the Dougherty Valley High School Campus. San Ramon. Information: www. sanramonperformingarts.com or 925-973-3343.
Open Studios set for May 11 & 12
Town of Danville sponsors tour of local artists’ spaces Spend Mother’s Day weekend touring the creative spaces of several working artists, as the Town of Danville sponsors a two-day Artists’ Open Studios event. This FREE event is set for May 11-12, 2019. From 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Saturday and 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Sunday, the public will be able to visit artists’ studios throughout Danville, view their work, and get a sneak peek into the artists’ creative process. Members of the public will be able to view the artists’ work and obtain maps that will indicate the studios they can visit in Danville. This is a self-guided tour which interested community members can conduct at their own pace. Maps will be available for pick-up at the Village Theatre & Art Gallery, 233 Front Street. Locations will be clearly indicated on the maps provided as well as by signs prominently displayed outside each location. The Opening Reception for Artists’ Open Studios will be held on May 9, 2019, from 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Those in attendance will get a sneak peek into the Town of Danville’s first public art project, Dogs of Danville, before the dogs head Downtown. The Opening Reception is being held in conjunction with Danville’s Doggie Night, so be sure to bring your pets down and head to Molly’s Pup-Purr-ee, 425 Hartz Avenue for some dog treats. For more information, contact Cultural Arts Program Supervisor, Jessica Wallner at (925) 314-3426 or jwallner@danville.ca.gov.
Call for Artists:
Village Theatre Art Gallery Presents 9th Annual Juried Exhibit: Into the Blue The Town of Danville’s Village Theatre Art Gallery is calling all artists to show how they see the color blue: blue skies, blue berries, blue bells, blue oceans, and blue eyes.... Over the course of art history, artists have used all shades of blue to express themselves. Blue connotes a sense of calm and tranquility and today is popular in a wide variety of art, from traditional landscapes and seascapes to abstract art. The 9th annual juried exhibit, ‘Into the Blue’ is looking for artists to share their interpretation of blue, how they use it in their art and how it informs their work. Interested artists are encouraged to submit their entries online at https://townofdanville.submittable.com/ submit/136837/call-for-artists-into-the-blue-9th-annualjuried-exhibit Exhibition dates are June 28 – August 17, 2019. The deadline for entries is May 17, 2019. An Opening Reception for the exhibition is scheduled for Friday, June 28, 2019 from 5:30 p.m.to 7:30.m. Musicians from The Jazz Room will present a live musical performance during the reception. Complimentary refreshments will be served. Artwork in the exhibition will be for sale. Admission is free. The Village Theatre and Art Gallery is open to visitors Wednesday through Friday 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., Saturday 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., and Monday and Tuesday by appointment only. The Art Gallery is closed on Sundays.
The Gallery is located at 233 Front St. in Danville. For more information, visit www.villagetheatreshows. com contact Visual Arts Coordinator Marija Nelson Bleier at (925) 314-3460 or mbleier@danville.ca.gov.
The Sixties at Fifty at the Museum of the San Ramon Valley Now-June 3 T h e S i x t i e s we re a n exciting, awful, inspiring, innovative but always memorable time. This exhibit shows the Sixties through a national as well as San Ramon Valley prism. A special exhibit is focused on the 1969 moon landing. Models of the rockets, gyroscope and magazines from the period and other items related to the moon landing are on display. Trace the development of the Valley during this period. Learn about the opening of Interstate 680 starting in 1964 into Danville then in 1966 continuing onto San Ramon and Dublin. New h o m e s f ro m S a n Ra m o n Village to Greenbrook were sprouting up all over the San Ramon Valley. This growth created havoc in trying to provide enough classrooms for the growing population. See a collection of Barbie dolls and accessories which was the iconic doll of this period. Children will enjoy playing with a variety of 1960 vintage toys. $3 - $10, Members free. The Museum of the San Ramon Valley, 205 Railroad Avenue in downtown Danville. Information please visit museumsrv.org or call 925-683-3750.
“ L u m i n o u s ” Wa t e rc o l o r Exhibit Now - June 15 The Village Theatre Art Gallery is excited to partner with the California Watercolor Association for a new exhibition, titled Luminous featuring a large variety of works depicting an array of styles and subject matter. Free. Village Theater & Art Gallery, 233 Front St., Danville. Information: www. villagetheatreshows.com or or 925-314-3400.
Tradition Interrupted Now – June 23 Tradition Interrupted explores the methods used by artists to conflate contemporary ideas with traditional art and craft in a range of media, from rugs and quilts to metal and ceramic. Merging the ageold with innovation, artists are re-visioning culturally historic ideas to create hybrid images or objects that interrupt traditional practice but still collaborate with the past. Bedford Gallery, Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. Information: www.bedfordgallery.org or 925-295-1417. Cinco de Mayo with a Jazz Flair May 5 8pm. Darryl Rowe Quartet takes the stage for the next Jazz Room Show. The quartet will perform original music, along with jazz and pop standards from a wide variety of artists from Duke Ellington to Sting. Darryl Rowe has been awarded both the Pacific Coast and Fullerton Vocal Jazz awards for Outstanding Jazz Performance, and has worked previously with Sergio Mendez, Bobby McFerrin, Woody Herman, Dexter Gordon, and Patrice Rushin. $20 - $30. Village Theater & Art Gallery, 233 Front St., Danville. Information: www.villagetheatreshows.com or or 925-314-3400.
BACT Presents: Guys & Dolls May 9 - 11 Jump into a colorful world of underground diceslinging, glitzy showgirls, and high-stakes romance in one of America’s most enduring musical comedies, Guys & Dolls Jr., performed by Bay Area Children’s Theatre Next Stage Performers. Big, brassy, and timelessly exuberant, Guys and Dolls is rich with beloved show tunes (‘Sit Down, You’re Rockin’ The Boat,’ ‘If I Were A Bell,’ ‘Luck Be A Lady’) and old
Fa n t a s y Fo r u m Ac t o r s Ensemble Presents: Cinderella May 9-12 Acclaimed Local Family Friendly Theatre Company Presents A Timeless Tale!Walnut Creek based Fantasy Forum Actors Ensemble is pleased to present this original tale, CINDERELLA. This romantic story about a girl’s dream to find her true love, and her wicked stepmother and stepsisters hilarious attempt to marry the Prince unfolds. With your help, Cinderella’s fairy God-mother does make dreams come true. This is an original family friendly musical that encourages audience participation from all ages which provides an exciting live theatre experience you and your children will never forget. $14. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: www.lesherartscenter.org or 925-943-SHOW (7469). The Opening Reception for Artists’ Open Studios May 9 5pm. Get a sneak peek into the Town of Danville’s first public art project, Dogs of Danville, before the dogs head Downtown. The Opening Reception is being held in conjunction with Danville’s Doggie Night, so be sure to bring your pets downtown for some dog treats at Molly’s Pup-Purr-ee, 425 Hartz Avenue, Danville. For more information, contact Cultural Arts Program Supervisor, Jessica Wallner at (925) 314-3426 or jwallner@ danville.ca.gov. BACT Presents: Seussical May 13 - 19 Come see your favorite Dr. Seuss characters come to life in Seussical KIDS, performed by the Bay Area Children’s Theatre Young Performers. Narrator Cat in the Hat will
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transport audiences from the Jungle of Nool to the Circus McGurkus in a story about Horton, the elephant. With toetapping numbers and vibrant colors, this story is fun for the whole family. $10. Dougherty Valley Performing Arts Center, 10550 Albion Rd. (Cross Street Bollinger Canyon Rd.) Located on the Dougherty Valley High School Campus. San Ramon. Information: www. sanramonperformingarts.com or 925-973-3343. A Midsummer Night’s Dream May 17 7:15pm. Presented by The Ballet School featuring Youth Performers. $20. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: www.lesherartscenter.org or 925-943-SHOW (7469). The Jungle Dance: Mowgli’s Story May 17-18 7pm. Join Encore Dance as they perform and dance the story of The Jungle Book! $20. Del Valle Theatre, 1963 Tice Valley Blvd., Walnut Creek. Information: www. lesherartscenter.org or 925943-SHOW (7469). Center REPertory Company Woody Sez: The Life & Music of Woody Guthrie May 17 - June 23 Tap your feet and sing along with Woody Guthrie, America’s greatest troubadour, in this uplifting musical portrait. You will be transported through his fascinating life with moving ballads and energetic foot-stompers like “This Land is Your Land,” “The Ballad of Tom Joad,” “Pastures of Plenty” and “This Train is Bound for Glory” in this incredible, award-winning musical journey. $39–$44. A Bbq Picnic will take place on the Lesher Center Plaza on Saturdays June 8, 15, 22, from 4:30 -7pm (after the 2:30pm or before the 8pm show). Tickets are $35 per person, and will be available for purchase at the LCA Ticket Office through Noon the previous Friday. The menu features: Grilled Tri Tip Sirloin Beef, Smoked Chicken, Mac and Cheese, Potato Salad, Corn on the Cob, Watermelon, Cookies, Iced Tea/Lemonade/Water,
Mau 2019 and more! Wine, Beer, and Soft Drinks will be available for sale. A Free Hootenanny will be held following each Sunday matinee at 4:45PM. Leading the Hootenanny will be David M. Lutken*, who plays the title role. Other cast members will also be joining the informal unamplified jam session. The event is admission-free, open to all, and invites everyone to bring an instrument, sing along, or clap to the rhythms and music! All at the Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: www.lesherartscenter.org or 925-943-SHOW (7469).
Dixieland jazz May 18 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. Primavera Annual Spring Art Show May 18-19 10am - 5pm. The art show will feature Fine Art Paintings, Photography, and Sculpture in a large artist exhibit in the main rotunda in Blackhawk Plaza. Sponsored by the Annual Alamo Danville Artists’ Society, Primavera is one of the oldest annual art festivals in the area. Plein air painters will be doing painting in the Plaza. Wine Tasting will be featured each day from Noon to 3:30 pm. Blackhawk Plaza, 3380 Blackhawk Circle, at the Corner of Camino Tassajara and Crow Canyon Rd. in Danville. Pastoral: Beethoven’s Sixth Symphony Presented by Diablo Symphony Orchestra May 19 2pm. The Diablo Sy m p h o ny w i l l p e r f o r m Beethoven’s glorious Pastoral Symphony in a special sideby-side performance with members of the San Ramon Valley High School Orchestra,
celebrating connections in our community through music. Rising Iranian composer Aida Shizari is writing a new work just for this occasion, and the DSO’s own concertmaster, Sara Usher, performs Bach’s double violin concerto with t h e o n e a n d o n l y D aw n Harms. $35. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: www.lesherartscenter.org or 925-943-SHOW (7469).
THE VALLEY SENTINEL memorable songs by awardwinning composer, Marvin Hamlisch, including the song for which our company is named, I Can Do That! While A Chorus Line is a mature show, we have made
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adjustments to accommodate a family-friendly audience. $15 - $20. Village Theater & Art Gallery, 233 Front St., Danville. Information: www. villagetheatreshows.com or or 925-314-3400.
www.ICanDoThatTheatre.com
THEATRE W A T C H A Chorus Line June 14th - 23rd Village Theatre You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown May 24 - June 2 Peanuts is back!! Snoopy, Linus, Charlie Brown and all the Peanuts gang will be back to the Village T h e a t r e w i t h “ Yo u ’ r e a Good Man Charlie Brown.” $15-$25. Village Theater & Art Gallery, 233 Front St., Danville. Information: www. villagetheatreshows.com or or 925-314-3400.
I Can Do That Theater Company Presents: A Chorus Line June 14 - 23 A teen cast stars in A Chorus Line, a stunning musical capturing the spirit and tension of a Broadway chorus audition. This show features
L E A R N Summer Camps June 3rd - 21st ages 6 - 14
Confidence and community through stellar musical theatre training!
May is the most amazing time of the year to visit your local farmers' market with the arrival of cherries! Gotelli Farms of Acampo bring their amazingly sweet and crisp cherries and Allard Farm grows their organic crop in Westley. Don’t forget your veggies with asparagus still in season and better than ever!
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THE VALLEY SENTINEL
Join White Pony Express in Meeting Its “Three Angel” $300,000 Matching Fund Challenge by June 15 Every day, 364 days a year, WPE trucks deliver 6000 lb. of surplus food to people who are hungry in our communities. In addition, WPE delivers 10,000 items of new or likenew clothing, toys, games and books to families in our neighborhoods each month. All of this done free of charge. With your support we can continue these programs and expand our School Pantry Program, where we deliver food to families who often don’t have enough to eat. Among other programs, WPE continues to make deliveries of food and clothing to the survivors of the Camp Fire in Butte County. And much more! Fo r t u n a t e l y, W P E has received an incredible opportunity. Three donors, whom we consider to be
“angels,” including Luis Gerardo del Valle Torres, the Heart’s Path Foundation, and the Gemmer Foundation have pledged $300,000 in matching funds for all financial donations, grants and pledges received between April 15 and June 15, 2019. This means that WPE can raise $600,000 in the next two months, taking a HUGE step toward achieving our annual fundraising goal of $2,000,000. If you are interested in making a contribution to help WPE with this matching opportunity, please send your contribution to White Pony Express at 3380 Vincent Ro a d , P l e a s a n t H i l l , C A 94523, or online at www. whiteponyexpress.org/3-angelmatch
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Alamo News Update Tanks A Lot? By Steve Mick
H e m m e S t a t i o n Pa r k continues to capture the interest and attention of a number of Alamo residents. The latest area of concern is the discovery of underground storage tank or tanks. These are located outside the park property on Danville Blvd. But first it would be instructive to learn about the history of the property. The Shady Way Inn was located on this property. Alamo residents with long memories noted that a filling station was also located on this property at some time. This raised concerns that there might b e u n d e rg ro u n d s t o ra g e tanks with the possibility of environmental issues. The San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District acquired the property in 2007. Their plan was to build a new fire station on the site that would provide a fire station in the south end of Alamo. This would provide greater coverage and better response times.
The Alamo MAC expressed interest in the property in May of 2012 and voted to learn more about the acquisition process at that time. In March 2014, the MAC voted to recommend to the County Supervisors that the County purchase the Hemme Property for use as a potential park site using County Service Area R7-A funds. Also recommended that county staffers contact the Fire District and communicate the County’s desire to purchase the property at a mutually agreed upon purchase price based upon the Fair Market Value as determined by County staff. The purchase was completed in February, 2015. In April, 2017 a couple of Alamo residents expressed concerns about possible lead contamination and underground storage tanks at the park site, based on the former presence at the site of a gas station. County staff met with these residents at the site. Staff was now aware that the former Shady Way Inn located at the site likely had gasoline storage tanks; this information was not found in any of the historical databases researched for the project.
Several environmental assessments were performed on the property. These used numerous historical records and standard databases for historical uses, presence of storage tanks, and other environmental concerns. Nothing was found of concern for the site. In addition, soil samples were taken and tested for pesticides and metals. All were found to be below human health screening levels. H o w e v e r, f u r t h e r assessments by the same Alamo residents did indeed indicate the presence of underground storage tank or tanks. County staffers confirmed that tank or tanks were located outside the boundaries of the park and in the county right of way – Danville Blvd. The tanks will be removed when school is out for summer vacation. A thorough assessment will be made at that time. 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.
San Ramon Valley Kiwanis Foundation Awards $39,700 In Grants reserve to provide emergency
The San Ramon Valley Kiwanis Foundation has awarded over $39,700 in grants to 28 area non-profit agencies this year. The grants will be presented at the club’s annual grants Breakfast ceremony, to be held on May 30th at Round Hill Country Club. Representatives of the recipient organizations will make brief presentations on their programs the Kiwanis grants support. Kiwanis of San Ramon Valley has awarded more than $1,000,000 through their grants program since 1995. This year, grant amounts ranged from $1,000 to $2,500, including a grant to the San Ramon Valley Educational Foundation for distribution to worthy school projects that the Education Foundation identifies. Recipients include: Agape Villages, Assistance League of Amador Valley, Assistance League of Diablo Valley, Cancer Support Community, Court Appointed Special Advocates of CCC (CASA), Diablo Valley Foundation for the Aging, Diablo Valley Quilters, Discovery Counseling Center of SRV, Down Syndrome
Connection, Eugene O’Neill Foundation, Tao House, Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano Counties, Hearing Loss Association of America, Diablo Valley Chapter, Hope Hospice and Home Health, Mobility Matters, Moment by Moment, Monument Crisis Center, National Coalition Against Prescription Drug Abuse, Nayeli Faith Foundation, New Day for Children, San Ramon Historic Foundation, San Ramon Valley Education Fo u n d a t i o n , S o n R i s e Equestrian Foundation, Teen Esteem, The Museum of the San Ramon Valley, We Care Services for Children, White Pony Express, and The Taylor Family Foundation, Funds for the annual grants program are raised by the San Ramon Valley Kiwanis Foundation, primarily through the solicitation of sponsorships of the Kiwanis 4th of July Parade in Danville, which the Kiwanis Club has been organizing and conducting since 1975. Grant applications are solicited in February of each year and awarded in May with an additional several thousand dollars held in
grants and fund additional Kiwanis community projects throughout the year. Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to changing the world one child and one community at a time. Founded in 1915, Kiwanis International is a thriving organization of service and community minded individuals who support children and young adults around the world. More than 600,000 Kiwanis improve the world around them by addressing needs in their communities and pooling their resources to address worldwide issues. Through these efforts, Kiwanis International truly is “Serving the Children of the World”. Additional information about the Kiwanis Club of the San Ramon Valley may be obtained at their website. www.srvkiwanis.org. The club holds weekly luncheon m e e t i n g s a t n o o n eve r y Thursday at Black Bear Diner in Danville. All are welcome to join the club for a meeting and find out more about the organization.
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Mau 2019
Lesher Center to Offer Accessible Family Programming This Spring
Sensory-Friendly and ASL-Interpreted Performances Coming Soon friends and husband
New and accessible family programming is on the way to the City of Walnut Creek and The Lesher Center for the Arts, with select LCA performances providing first class family theatre experiences to an even wider range of the Bay Area community. Partnering with Producers In order to reach a broad spectrum of audiences who may not otherwise be comfortable in the traditional theatre atmosphere, the Lesher Center has partnered with two of its most popular producers, DLUX Puppets and Fantasy Forum Actors Ensemble, to provide select performances with accommodations for individuals and families with a variety of sensory and communication needs. This includes ASL interpreted performances as well as Sensory-Friendly performances in which the theatre environment is adjusted to provide a sensoryfriendly, comfortable and judgement-free space for patrons with special needs. The idea of offering especially accessible or “ re l a xe d ” p e r f o r m a n c e s is not a new one and is something Derek and Lauren Lux, Co-Founders of DLUX Puppets, have been SYMPHONY from page 1
Center for the Arts, Walnut Creek. Emily, a sophomore, has been playing violin since 5th grade. She is also on the track and cross country teams and volunteers with the Contra Costa Humane Society. Ethan, who joins the viola section, is in his sophomore year and is active in track (sprints) and soccer. He began playing violin at age 6 and viola at age 14. Gabby, a Junior, started playing cello in the 6th grade and joins the orchestra’s cello section. She plays water polo and is a lifeguard for the City of San Ramon. B e e t h ove n d e s c r i b e d his sixth symphony as “an expression of nature” and gave it the full title “Pastoral Symphony, or Recollections of Country Life.” Birdcalls, a babbling brook, a gathering of dancing peasants and a sudden intense storm followed by joyful dancing and quiet peace take the
making strides in through their company’s offerings. “During our debut season, we had a very memorable postperformance meet and greet with a special needs child and immediately saw the magic between puppets and this population. We hope that by providing the SensoryFriendly performance we are creating an opportunity for children and families to see our show in a comfortable environment tailored specifically to their needs. This population might otherwise not be able to attend the theater because of sensory sensitivities to changing lights and abrupt s o u n d s . We h o p e o u r modifications will provide access to this community that otherwise might not be able to attend and experience the joy of live theater,” Lauren Lux said. This initiative was sparked by patron-directed interest in accessible programming and builds off past success in similarly accessible opportunities offered last fall. Nina Mostepan is one such patron whose personal experience is directing the expansion of these opportunities. She said, “We had a great time at [Fantasy Forum’s The Biggest Gift]! I was able to relax knowing that my
audience, at least for a time, into the composer’s beloved countryside. Also featured is Bach’s Concerto for Two Violins in D minor with the DSO’s concertmaster Sara Usher and area violinist Dawn Harms. Also known as the Double Violin Concerto, this popular late Baroque work was composed when Bach was particularly focused on instrumental music, including works for solo violin and the Brandenburg Concertos. Harms is a member of the San Francisco Opera and New Century Chamber orchestras and holds the position of coconcertmaster of the Oakland Symphony. She serves on the music faculty at Stanford University. Usher received a Certificate of Performance at Yale’s Graduate School of Music, is a founding member of the Corvo String Quartet, and plays regularly with the San Francisco Opera Orchestra, the Philharmonia
had access to the performance. The interpreters were well qualified and knowledgeable a b o u t t h e p e r f o r m a n c e. Thank you, Lesher Center for providing American Sign Language interpreters for those who can’t hear.” Upcoming Performances Designated ASL interpreted performances of Fantasy Forum Actors Ensemble productions continue this spring with select presentations ofCinderella on May 12th and again on July 20th at the LCA’s annual Chevron Family Theatre Festival. FFAE’s 2019-2020 season will continue to feature ASL interpreted performances on December 22nd of this year, and March 8th, and May 10th, 2020. On Saturday May 4th of this year, DLUX Puppets will be offering a designated Sensory-Friendly performance of Alice in Wonderland. Tickets are available for purchase online at www.lesherartscenter.org or by calling 925-943-SHOW. For more information on Accessible Programming at The Lesher Center: please contact Alex Moore, Community Engagement Coordinator, Lesher Center for the Arts, at amoore@ lesherartscenter.org or 925295-1472.
Baroque Orchestra and the New Century Chamber Orchestra. The orchestra also premieres rising Iranian composer Aida Shirazi’s new work Ardea Alba, commissioned by the DSO and inspired by an encounter with a Snowy Egret. This descriptive work employs unusual instrumental techniques throughout to simulate familiar sounds from nature. Shirazi is a Ph.D. candidate in composition at the University of California, Davis, and is co-founder and board member of the Iranian Female Composers Association. Ad v a n c e t i c k e t s m a y be purchased at the Lesher Center box office or by visiting www.diablosymphony.org. Tickets will also be available at the door during the hour preceding the 2 p.m. concert. Season Sponsors: John and Lorus Mosher; Patrick and Shirley Campbell Foundation.
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Searching for Veterans
The Second (Indianhead) Division Association is searching for anyone who served in the Army’s 2nd Infantry Division at any time. For information about the association and our 98th annual reunion in Tucson, Arizona from September 18 - 22, 2019; contact Bob Haynes at 2idahq@comcast.net or call 224-225-1202.
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Spring Wildflowers
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For reasons including the bountiful rains of winter, the spring wildflower season has been especially beautiful this year in the East Bay Regional Parks and other open spaces. Among the best places to see wildflowers in the regional parks are Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve in Antioch, Morgan Territory Regional Preserve east of Mt. Diablo, and Sunol Regional Wilderness in southern Alameda County.
a map at the kiosk or visitor center, then walk a loop on the Canyon View Trail, Cerro Este and Camp Ohlone Road for a real visual treat. Little Yosemite on Camp Ohlone Road is a scenic spot where Alameda Creek cascades through a rocky gorge. Sunol is at the end of Geary Road off Calaveras Road about five miles south of I-680 and the town of Sunol. While we’re talking a b o u t w i l d f l owe rs, l e t ’s mention those flying flowers – butterflies. There are serious concerns about the decline in butterfly populations, especially monarch butterflies.
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Black Diamond Mines is located at the end of Somersville Road about 3½ miles south of Highway 4. Good bets for wildflower viewing are the Chaparral Loop and Manhattan Canyon Trails. Wildfl owers tend to thrive in the rocky soils of those areas. At M o rg a n Te r r i t o r y, check out the Blue Oak and Volvon Trails. A bonus is the great views of Mt. Diablo to the west and the Central Valley to the east. For a guided wildflower hike at Morgan Territory, join naturalist Eddie Willis from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Sunday, May 19 on a six-mile trek. It’s for ages 10 and older; bring water, sun protection and lunch. Meet Eddie at the parking lot and trailhead on Morgan Territory Road about nine miles south of the junction with Marsh Creek Road east of Clayton. Be careful driving Morgan Territory Road: it’s narrow and winding, only a little wider than one lane. For information about the hike, call 888-327-2757, ext. 2750. Sunol Regional Wilderness always has fine wildflower displays, especially this year. Pick up
Monarchs have overwintered in the eucalyptus groves at Ardenwood Historic Farm in Fremont for many years. However the park staff reports that the butterfl y numbers this year were extremely low. During part of their life cycle, monarch butterflies f e e d exc l u s i ve l y o n t h e milkweed plant, so scarcity of milkweed may have seriously impacted their population. We can help by planting milkweed in our gardens. However, butterfly experts caution that only native California milkweed should be planted, because the tropical varieties can spread disease. The Xerces Society is a non-profit organization
dedicated to preserving and enhancing the population of monarch butterfl ies and o t h e r i n ve r t e b ra t e s. Fo r information on how you can help, visit their website, www.xerces.org. And the spring edition of Bay Nature Magazine has an extensive article about the decline in butterfly populations. East Bay Regional Park District is offering several free butterfly programs in coming weeks. You can join naturalist Kevin Dixon on either of two butterfly walks, both from 9 to 11:30 a.m. on successive Saturdays. Distances are moderate, but may include steep terrain. Bring binoculars if possible. There’s a hike on May 11 at Diablo Foothills Regional Park. Meet Kevin in the Orchard Staging Area near the end of Castle Rock Road in Walnut Creek. Kevin’s other hike is on May 18 at Carquinez Strait Regional Shoreline in Martinez. This one is for ages eight and older. Meet Kevin at the Nejedly Staging Area on Carquinez Scenic Drive just west of town. For information on these hikes, call 510-544-2750. Another option is the 20th Annual Butterfly and Bird Festival, from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Sunday, June 2 at Coyote Hills Regional Park in Fremont. The festival is dedicated to increasing the numbers and species of butterflies and birds in the Bay Area. Activities will include garden tours, hands-on activities f o r t h e w h o l e f a m i l y, educational speakers, photo presentations, and music. There will be information on how to create a wildlifefriendly habitat in your own backyard. Coyote Hills is at the end of Patterson Ranch Road off Paseo Padre Parkway. There’s a parking fee of $5 per vehicle; the festival is free of charge. Call 510-5443220.
Round Valley - photo by Marc Crumpler
valleysentinel.com KINGFISHER from page 1
hunting fish, their favorite food. When a “watchpoint” isn’t available, the Belted Kingfisher will hover as it searches for prey. Once their prey is identified, the Belted Kingfisher will dive head first in pursuit of its meal. Throughout Contra Costa County, the Belted Kingfisher is often observed flying quickly up and down our creeks and along our shorelines giving its loud, diagnostic, rattling call. The majority of their diet is small fish, although crayfish, amphibians, small crustaceans, insects, reptiles, and small mammals are eaten as well. They have been reported to eat berries on occasion. Adults regurgitate pellets of undigested materials at roost sites. These pellets may be dissected for dietary analysis. The Belted Kingfisher nests in an upward sloping, horizontal tunnel that is excavated by both parents in
Mau 2019 a stream bank, or soft, earthen bank. The elevated nest chamber prevents flooding. Tunnel length ranges from one to eight feet. I have seen Belted Kingfishers nesting in the drainage pipes of concrete bypasses. Road building and gravel extraction pits have created banks for nesting as well. These human activities have allowed for the expansion of the Belted Kingfisher’s breeding range. Five to eight eggs are laid by the female in the nest chamber, which are incubated for twenty-two to twenty-four days by both sexes. Both parents feed the young, which depart the nest twentyseven to twenty-nine days after hatching. According to the North American Breeding Bird Survey, a cumulative Belted Kingfisher population decline of 53% was recorded from 1966-2014. Partners in Flight estimates the global breeding population at 1.7 million, with 70% spending some of the year in the United States, 49% in Canada, and 19% wintering in Mexico. Belted Kingfishers are sensitive to disturbance and may abandon territories frequented by humans. James M. Hale is a wildlife biologist, ethnobiologist, and ecological consultant based in Contra Costa County. Please visit his website at www. dochale.com
THE VALLEY SENTINEL
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Sentinels of Freedom Gala Brings Focus to Severely Wounded and Delights Attendees with Top Brass On Saturday April 13, Sentinels of Freedom held t h e i r G a l a eve n t a t t h e Blackhawk Museum. Sentinels of Freedom (SOF) works with severely wounded post-9/11 veterans. The program participants are called Sentinels in honor of their sacrifice in serving our country and guarding our freedoms. In the beautiful setting of the Museum, dinner was served, the National anthem was sung and several speakers came to the podium. Mike Conklin, founder of the Sentinels of Freedom, Sharon Dunbar, Retired Major General, US Air Force, followed by speakers Sentinel Johmmie Yellock II, Retired staff Sergeant, US Air Force Special Ops, and General Paul J. Selva, Current Vice Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff, who flew from Washington DC for this event. The presentation was moving, and clearly, Sentinels of Freedom is a fine and noble organization. The distinguished speakers were fascinating and supportive
Medical expertise is important. Knowing how much we care is essential. A A COMMUNITY COMMUNITY BUILT BUILT ON ON ENCOURAGEMENT ENCOURAGEMENT We We never never forget forget that that there’s there’s more more to to care care than than medicine. medicine. There’s There’s compassion. compassion. Attentiveness. And a healthy dose of kindness. Which is why Attentiveness. And a healthy dose of kindness. Which is why when when it it comes comes to to your care, all of us are here to treat you well. your care, all of us are here to treat you well. To To fi find nd a a doctor, doctor, call call 833-823-0270 833-823-0270 or or visit visit SanRamonMedCtr.com SanRamonMedCtr.com
Generald Paul J. Selva, Vice Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff with Danville Mayor Robert Storer
and an honor to meet and listen to. Sentinels of Freedom provide personal support in removing financial obstacles so that the severely wounded can complete their higher education and successfully transition to civilian life. Support ranges from housing and living subsidies to financial
coaching, mentoring, and career transition assistance, helping them to look beyond the permanent challenges they have been left with. Donations to Sentinels of Freedom can be made at www.sentinelsoffreedom. org/donate. There are many levels of support, all of which can be viewed on the website.
Spring Home Home & & Garden Garden Spring page 8
THE VALLEY SENTINEL
Mau 2019
valleysentinel.com
What’s Old is New Again: Adapting a Danville Treasure By Steven Wynn
In a previous article I discussed one of my favorite architecture books, How Buildings Learn: What Happens After They’re Built by Stewart Brand (Viking, 1994). Never have I appreciated it more than today, as we’re only weeks away from moving into our firm’s new home atop the historic Xavier-de Sousa Building (formerly occupied by Rick’s Picks). Brand instructs architects to “mature from
being artists of space to becoming artists of time.” My partner, Blair Barry, AIA and our team at Barry & Wynn Architects accepted Brand’s words as a challenge: Was it possible to simultaneously rehabilitate the original, 19th century front half of the building and storefront facing Hartz Avenue, while replacing the 1950’s rear half with a new, contemporary addition facing Railroad Avenue?
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Can we bridge the divide between preserving our past, and leaning into the future? With this one, important little building, we assert that there is no divide. Buildings are not static – they are shaped by their occupants, and adapt to the needs of each new generation. Adaptation is essential. When we embrace our role as “artists of time,” past and future need not be an either/or proposition. We can preserve the essential fabric, character and scale of historic Danville while simultaneously welcoming the arrival of modern materials, technology, and design. Adaptation is as old as human history. Even the location of the original Xavier-de Sousa Building on Hartz Avenue is a product of change. Earlier in the 19th century, Front Street was the original center of Danville. It shifted to Hartz Avenue in 1891 with the arrival of the Southern Pacific Railroad, one block away. This building was likely built to take advantage of new commercial opportunities afforded by the nearby train station (history courtesy of historical architect Charlie
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Duncan). The original woodframed building likely had a working yard at the rear. Today, the busy Railroad Avenue parking lot offers us the opportunity to transform the “rear” into a second, pedestrian-friendly frontage. The property came into the Xavier family around the 1920’s. Walter Xavier, father of the current descendant, Sharon Xavier de Sousa, added a concrete block addition at the rear in the 1950’s. It was pure utility, offering more storage and floor space for Xavier’s Store. Xavier’s was the go-to shoe and general store for Danville for decades, finally closing in the 1970’s. Sharon has countless stories, and photos, of Danville life in and around her father’s s t o r e (hopefully the subject o f a remarkable future article by Sharon). She and husband John de Sousa share a passion for Danville’s history, and their commitment to extending the life of this building into the future ensures a lasting legacy for the entire community. We always caution our remodel clients that you n eve r re a l l y k n ow w h a t you’re dealing with until you open up the walls. Well, these walls, spanning three centuries, did not disappoint. When contractor Joe Pucci, of Trademark Homes Ltd, carefully pulled back layers of history, the surprises were a mix of good and bad. The bad – dry rot, structural deficiencies, and machine oil in the wood flooring requiring it to be disposed of as hazardous waste. We even found literal “skeletons in the closet” – four-legged specimens, long ago entombed behind tongueand-groove wall cladding (rat clambers into wall, cat chases after – you get the idea). The good – clerestory windows discovered above the entry, spanning the width of the storefront, long ago boarded up. Once exposed, light poured beautifully into the space. Additional windows
were uncovered along the blind alley facing Elliott’s. But the most unexpected discovery was the quality of the original redwood siding found underneath the stucco façade. Our intent was to repair the existing stucco, but as soon as the beauty of the original wood was on display, including its original circular attic vent, it was unanimous – restore the wood siding! Buildings do “learn.” After destructive fires ravaged wo o d - c l a d t ow n s i n t h e Bay Area and elsewhere up through the 1920’s, stucco was employed as an emergency response to fireproof wooden buildings. The need was urgent, and widespread. But lost in the response was the wood-clad fabric that defined Western architecture. I ro n i c a l l y, i t is the advent of modern f i re - re s i s t i ve construction of the rest of this and adjoining buildings that enables us to restore this historic r e d w o o d façade. So why not match t h i s We s t e r n s t o re f ro n t a t our Railroad Avenue facing addition? One of the most important guidelines for historic preservation, but least understood by the public, is that modern additions must be readily distinguished from original construction. Second only to actually destroying historic architecture, the most egregious error a designer can make is to “fake” it and pretend to be historic. Architecture must be honest, and not try to fool the public into thinking an addition is historic when it isn’t. This building is situated such that one cannot see the front and the “back” at the same time, so our new, contemporary “rear” doesn’t compete with the historic Hartz storefront. This provided us the opportunity to design an open, outward-facing glass façade, embracing views of the nearby Las Trampas Range. Many years ago, I had the privilege to study under the tutelage of the Historic Architect for the National Capitol Region in Washington, D.C. The nondescript, World
Spring Home Home & & Garden Garden Spring valleysentinel.com
Mau 2019 decades later, their work would be cited in the historic report (prepared by Charlie Duncan) as the basis for our work on the Xavier-de Sousa Building, soon to be my office. Stop by this summer to visit. Dioro Jewelers will be open in the old Xavier Store half on Hartz, and our door will be open to our upstairs architecture studio off the Railroad Avenue parking lot. We’d love to see you there!
THE VALLEY SENTINEL
page 9
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Senior Living page 10
valleysentinel.com
May 2019
Your Medicare rights and protections Greg Dill
Did you know that Medicare has an ombudsman to help you resolve complaints you may have about your healthcare? Congress created the job of Medicare Beneficiary Ombudsman to assist people with Medicare with their inquiries, complaints, grievances, appeals, and requests for information. The Medicare Beneficiary Ombudsman also shares information with Congress, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, and other organizations about what works well and what doesn’t work well to improve the quality of the care you get through Medicare. If you need help with a Medicare-related inquiry, there are several ways you can get help. 1. Call your plan. If your inquiry is related to your Medicare Advantage (Part C)
plan or Medicare Prescription Drug (Part D) plan, contact your plan first using the phone number on your plan member ID card. Your plan is the best resource to resolve plan-related issues. 2. Call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY users should call 1-877-486-2048. If your concern is related to Original Medicare, or if your plan was unable to resolve your inquiry, contact 1-800-MEDICARE for help. 3. Contact the SHIP. The State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs) provide free, high-quality counseling to people with Medicare regarding their benefits, coverage, appeals, and complaints. SHIP counselors are volunteers who often have Medicare themselves, so they know the issues and they’re not trying to sell you anything. Find your local SHIP at: www. shiptacenter.org. 4. Contact the Medicare Beneficiary Ombudsman. If you have been unable to resolve your concern with your plan
or 1-800-MEDICARE, ask a 1-800-MEDICARE representative to submit your complaint or inquiry to the Medicare Beneficiary Ombudsman. The Ombudsman will help to ensure that your inquiry is resolved appropriately. No matter how you get your Medicare, you have certain rights and protections. As a person with Medicare, you’re entitled to: • Be treated with dignity and respect at all times. • Be protected from discrimination. Every company or agency that works with Medicare must obey the law. They can’t treat you differently because of your race, color, national origin, disability, age, religion, or sex. • Have your personal and health information kept private. • Get information in a way you understand from Medicare, health care providers, and, under certain circumstances, contractors. • Get understandable information about Medicare to help you make health care
decisions, including: -What’s covered; -What Medicare pays; -How much you have to pay; -What to do if you want to file a complaint or appeal. • Have your questions about Medicare answered. • Have access to doctors, specialists, and hospitals. • Learn about your treatment choices in clear language that you can understand, and participate in treatment decisions. • Get healthcare services in a language you understand and in a culturally-sensitive way. • Get Medicare-covered services in an emergency. • Get a decision about healthcare payment, coverage of services, or prescription drug coverage. -When a claim is filed, you get a notice letting you know what will and won’t be covered. The notice comes from one of these: • Medicare; • Your Medicare Advantage plan (Part C);
• Yo u r M e d i c a r e prescription drug plan (Part D); • Your other Medicare health plan. -If you disagree with the decision on your claim, you have the right to file an appeal. • Request a review (appeal) of certain decisions about healthcare payment, coverage of services, or prescription drug coverage. -If you disagree with a decision about your claims or services, you have the right to appeal. • File complaints (sometimes called “grievances”), including complaints about the quality of your care. Yo u c a n f i n d m o r e information at: www.medicare. gov/claims-appeals/yourmedicare-rights/get-help-withyour-rights-protections. Greg Dill is Medicare’s regional administrator for Arizona, California, Nevada, Hawaii, and the Pacific Territories. You can get answers to your Medicare questions by visiting www.Medicare.gov or calling 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800633-4227).
THE NEWEST IN ASSISTED LIVING AND MEMORY CARE IS NOW ACCEPTING RESERVATIONS Secure your reservation now and save $2,500. More than 30 years of experience have taught us that today’s seniors want more choices and are leading a more active lifestyle than generations before. That’s why we’re creating a community filled with options, from affordable studio apartments to spacious two-bedroom suites, great cuisine and an active lifestyle of growth and discovery. Enjoy fun excursions, meals with friends, interesting classes, clubs and personal pursuits plus top-notch care tailored to your needs, on your schedule, so it never interrupts your lifestyle. Be one of our first residents and save. By securing your reservation to become a Founding Resident you will save $2,500 off the community fee. Only a few of these memberships are left. We’re currently scheduling personalized consultations on a first-come, first-served basis. Call 925-725-1485 today to request an appointment.
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Senior Living valleysentinel.com
page 11
May 2019 Sponsored Content
Retirement Advice By Robert Cucchiaro
I was at a dinner party one night when one of the guests asked me what I thought about the “4% rule”. While within our industry this is a common discussion topic, this is not so well known by those outside of retirement planning circles. The 4% rule gained popularity in 1994 when financial adviser and MIT graduate William Bengen attempted to answer a question brought to him by his clients: “How much can I spend in retirement without running out of money?” Bengen looked at U.S. historical data going back to 1926 to answer this question. His analysis looked at a 65-year-old couple with a 60% stock / 40% bond portfolio who would need their savings to last 30 years. Based on this work, Bengen concluded that even in 1966 (the worst case scenario) a 65-yearold couple could draw-down 4% of their retirement savings each year for 30 years without depleting their nest egg. These findings were published in the October 1994 edition of the Journal of Financial Planning and have stuck with investors and advisors ever since.
Help for Caregivers When facing the incapacity of a loved one, reliance on professionals will ensure that families receive the most accurate information about options and protection. To help family caregivers navigate common questions, Hope Hospice presents Exploring Legal and Financial Issues on Saturday, May 18, from 9:45am to Noon at the Hope Hospice office located at 6377 Clark Avenue in Dublin. Find the group in the second floor conference room. There is no cost to attend, but preregistration is requested. In this class, Cynthia Thorp, Esq., a local elder law specialist, will share information about establishing powers of attorney, guardianships, and conservatorships; trusts and wills; paying for long-term care and accessing government assistance programs; examining elder abuse and fraud; and
The “4% rule” is a rule of thumb and like all rules of thumb, it’s more of a starting place than a complete answer to the question. Many recent studies around retirement income planning have focused on the benefits of using an age based table (similar to required minimum distribution tables) as a guide for how much to withdraw from that portion of the portfolio. The concept there being that while it seems reasonable to focus on U.S. historical data, who is to say whether the future experience of retirees will be like our past, or whether it will be more reflective of situations experienced in other countries? A more sophisticated approach than simple rules of thumb or using the same % tables for everyone is to focus on one’s individual income & expenses during the 1st 10 years of retirement. Playing with things like when to turn on social security or which pension option should I take, coupled with a customized portfolio withdrawal strategy can make more sense and can factor in taxes. Sometimes it makes sense from a tax perspective to delay tapping into one’s IRA or 401K, other times it’s just the opposite. Every dollar saved in taxes is a dollar added back into your retirement portfolio, and yet so little time is spent on tax planning when figuring out one’s retirement income plan. implementing advance health care directives. Any community member engaged in the role of family caregiver or expecting to soon become a caregiver is invited to attend. Please preregister at HopeHospice.com/classesresources, or contact Hope Hospice Community Health Educator Debbie Emerson at debbiee@hopehospice.com or 925-829-8770. Hope Hospice’s Family Caregiver Education Series is a set of 14 classes designed to provide training, education, support, and resources for those caring for loved ones with chronic or disabling conditions. These classes and support groups are available at no cost to all community members; however, donations to Hope Hospice are greatly appreciated. This program is supported in part by a generous grant from the Rotary Club of Pleasanton.
T h e re i s n o b l a n ke t retirement strategy that works for everyone. Real retirement planning addresses each of these and much more. And then once addressed, this becomes a time specific, dollar specific plan that both the client and their Advisor can work towards, measuring progress and making tweaks along the way. This is the type of work we do at Summit Wealth & Retirement and the type of work our firm has done for over 30 years. We are proud of the fact that our office in Danville has 4 Certified Financial Planner Professionals on-site in addition to a full time Enrolled Agent/Tax Preparer. To learn more, visit our website, give us a call at 925927-1900 or email me at rob@ swrpteam.com. Robert Cucchiaro is a Certified Financial Planner and owner of Summit Wealth & Retirement, a financial planning firm that has been serving Danville for over 30 years. Visit us at www. summitwealthandretirement. com
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May 5 Meaningful Change for Ourselves and the World. 2:30pm. Come spend an hour with us on Sunday, May 5, at 2:30 p.m. to hear how REAL change comes about! Mark McCurties, C.S., will talk about “Meaningful change for ourselves and the world.” The place to come is the Christian Science Church at 650 Danville Blvd., Danville. Everyone is welcome---and loving, free child care is provided. The talk, of course, is FREE. Traduccion Simultaneo al Espanol in the Sunday School room.
Collections for Men and Women in the War Zone Gourmet Junk Food: First Friday of the month at CVS in Alamo; Second Friday of the month at Lunardi’s in Danville; List of acceptable items available during collection times. Hours 11:30 to 1:30 Delta Nu Psi
May 9 Sustainable Living Workshop 6pm-8pm. Identify and lessen your exposure to dangerous toxins in home and beauty products, and learn to create natural products that work just as well. Make and take home natural laundry soap and hand cream. Instructor Denise Koroslev has studied, grown and used herbs for over 40 years, and teaches herb classes for culinary and medicinal purposes. $25 Rodgers Ranch Heritage Center: Register at www.sustainable coco.org May 10 and 11 AAUW 19th Annual Garden Tour 10am-4pm both days. Come see the beauty of local gardens brought to you by our winter and spring rains and by the Danville-AlamoWalnut Creek branch of AAUW. Colors abound and intoxicating fragrances fill the air. What a wonderful way to celebrate Mother’s day weekend. Five inspiring gardens in Danville and Alamo. Tickets are $40. Tickets may be purchased online using a credit card in person at the East Bay Flower Co. located in the Danville Livery, or by mail. For information, please visit https://daw-ca.aauw.net/ garden. Proceeds benefit the AAUW Fund*, to help graduate women continue their education. May 12 Mother’s Day Brunch at San Damiano Retreat Cost is $40 for adults and $20 for kids 12 and under People of all faiths are invited to attend mass in San Damiano’s Chapel prior to the brunch. Mass is at 10 AM and the brunch will begin at approximately 11:00 AM. 710 Highland Drive; Danville, CA May 18 The 11th Annual Walk of Honor for our Veterans 8:30-11:45am. The Phillips 66 Refinery and Carbon Plant invites you to join us in honoring and celebrating the service of our military veterans at The 11th Annual “Walk of Honor for our Veterans”. It will be a short walk across the Alfred Zampa Memorial Bridge and back. Check in at the Crocket Community center at 850 Pomona St., Crocket. Transportation provided to and from the bridge.10am, Walk begins followed by a lunch ceremony. Last year over 400 participated and together we raised in excess of $41,000. All contributions divided evenly between the Viet Nam Veterans of Diablo Valley and the Crocket Community Services District. We promise a fun, exciting and fulfilling day honoring the men and women who have valiantly served our nation. May 29 Lamorinda Arts Council Presents Arts Affair 5-8pm. Arts Affair Tickets Now on Sale. Celebrate with board members past, present, and future at this fundraiser to benefit the arts in our community. This ticketed celebration features a performance showcase (film, singers, dancers, and musicians), a raffle, and catered refreshments that include a specialty cocktail by the 2018 Mixologist of the year. Standard Tickets are $25 and Patron Tickets are $100; Corporate Sponsorships are available for $250. May 30 Maya Bazaar Festival 11am-5pm. Please join us with your friends and families at Maya Bazaar, A Magical Summer Festival on May 30, 2015 from 11 AM to 5:00 PM in San Ramon (Bishop Ranch 8, 4000 Executive Parkway, San Ramon, CA) Fun includes Free Entry for Kids, Interactive Live Western and Indian Characters, Unique Food, Celebrities from India, Play Area and Arcades for Kids, Showcasing Indian Art Forms, Nonstop Cultural Programs, and Vendor Booths – Clothing, Beauty, and Non-profits. Organized by Bay Area Telugu Association (BATA.) For more information visit www.bata.org. June 1 & 2 38th Annual Walnut Creek Art & Wine Festival Sat. 11am-7pm, Sun. 11am-6pm. The popular Walnut Creek Chamber Art & Wine Festival returns for its 38th year. Free admission and centrally located makes it a fun and travel-friendly weekend. Top-quality, non-stop local and Bay Area music and entertainment for the entire family, distinctive hand-made crafts and works of art from more than 200 artisans, award-winning local and regional wines and microbrews, ethnic and traditional festival food, Premium Wine Tent, Festival Train (a longtime family favorite), and the Kids Zone. Heather Farms Park, 301 N. Civic Drive, Walnut Creek
Special Services for Children with Cancer and Their Families Cancer Support Community offers short-term counseling (12 to 20 sessions) at no cost to children with cancer and their families. Counseling can be for the family, siblings, and/or kids coping with cancer. Counseling is provided by doctoral interns or post doctoral fellows under the supervision of our clinical psychologists. To request this service, please call us at 925-933-0107 and ask to speak with our program director, Margaret Stauffer, LMFT. Hope Hospice seeking volunteers Hope Hospice is currently looking for individuals who are interested in volunteering to assist hospice patients and their families. Volunteer opportunities include; Home Care; Cosmetology; Healing Touch; Reiki; Massage Therapy; Vocalists. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, contact Jill Biggs, RN, at 925-829-8770. Volunteers Needed: Read to Preschoolers Volunteers are needed at childcare centers in Concord, Pittsburg, and West County. The Contra Costa County Library will supply books and resources. For more information, please contact Maureen Kilmurray at 925-927-3288. Alamo Farmer’s Market Every Sunday, Year round 9am-2pm, rain or shine. Fresh seasonal fruit and vegetables, nuts, local honey, live music, delicious varieties of hummus with fresh pita and pita chips. Located in the Alamo Plaza Shopping Center, at Stone Valley Road and Danville Blvd., with convenient parking. Danville Farmer’s Market Every Saturday, Year-round 9am-1pm. Get the freshest seasonal fare at the Danville Certified Farmers’ Market. Railroad & Prospect Avenue, Danville. Information: www.ci.danville.ca.us. (You can make donations of fresh vegetables and fruit for our local food pantries at the Loaves & Fishes Booth at the Danville Farmers Market.) San Ramon Farmers Market Every Saturday & Thursday Year-round Buy fresh, seasonal produce directly from local farmers at San Ramon Farmers Market. www.SanRamonFarmersMarket.org. Bishop Ranch 3, 2641 Camino Ramon, San Ramon. Canine Companions for Independence Puppy Class Every Saturday 10-11am. Become a puppy raiser! The East Bay Miracles Chapter invites you to help train puppies to become assistant dogs for children and adults with disabilities. Athenian High School, 2100 Mt. Diablo Scenic Blvd., Danville. Information: 925-838-3213, cci.org/eastbaychapter Forest Home Farms Historic Park & Glass House Museum–open for Fun on the Farm Every Saturday 11am-2pm. Enjoy tours of the Glass House Museum, the farm and its history. Tours are $5 per person, or $8 for both tours on the same day. 19953 San Ramon Valley Blvd, San Ramon. Information: 925973-3284 or visit www.sanramon.ca.gov. Saturday without Reservations at the Tao House Every Saturday 10am, 12pm, and 2pm. Come explore this National Historic Site in Danville. Catch the shuttle at the bus stop in front of the Museum of the San Ramon Valley, 205 Railroad Ave. www.EugeneOneill.org SENIORS Danville Seniors Unless otherwise noted, the following activities are held at the Danville Senior Center, Veterans Memorial Building, 115 E. Prospect, Danville. For more information call 925-314-3490 or visit www.ci.danville.ca.us/ Recreation/Seniors. Sneaker Trips: The Town of Danville’s Senior Sneakers program is a great way for you to make new friends and get out and around the greater Bay Area. There’s always something new to see and learn. The Danville Area Senior Hikes (DASH) is open to all adults and meets on the second and fourth Wednesday of every month. The group starts at 8:45am at Osage Park, 816 Brookside Drive, Danville and returns about 1pm. Information: 925-314-3400 or visit www.ci.danville.ca.us/Recreation/Seniors/ Senior_Hiking.
San Ramon Seniors The following events are held at the Alcosta Senior & Community Center, 9300 Alcosta Blvd., San Ramon, unless otherwise noted. For more information call 925-973-3250 or visit www. sanramon.ca.gov/parks/programs/ages55+.htm. Wisdom Wednesdays: 10:30am-12pm. Free workshops and informational sessions that will benefit you. They will give you free access to coffee, knowledge and a better understanding of important issues. Information: 925-973-3250. Trips Trip Desk is open Tuesdays from 10am-1pm. Sign up for trips at the travel desk or by depositing payment with registration form in the gold drop box found at the main entryway. Information: 925-973-3250. Wednesday Morning Hikes (time and location varies) Join the San Ramon Trailblazers if you are interested in meeting new people, enjoying the outdoors, having fun and getting in shape. To find out the exact meeting location, please call the Senior Center at 925-973-3250 or email trailblazer88@ comcast.net. Page Turners Senior Book Group Third Tuesday of the month 1:30pm. Drop in–all are welcome! Copies of this month’s book are on reserve for you at the Dougherty Station Library Front Desk. Book group meets at Alcosta Senior and Community Center, 9300 Alcosta Blvd. Information: Carol Yuke, Adult Services Librarian. 925-973-2850. BUSINESS Notice: The Danville Area Chamber of Commerce helps businesses improve digital footprint In partnership with The Economic Development Committee and the Town of Danville, it is our goal to help every business in the Danville Area to improve their digital footprint and customer outreach. This is a service and resource that we are offering for FREE to both members and non-members, so book your appointment today and bring your neighbor with you! Contact me, Zae Perrin: (925) 837-4400 or email: ceo@danvilleareachamber.com May 10 Small Business Council Workshop 7:45-9am. The Danville Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to sponsor the Small Business Council. The Small Business Council delivers a Free Business Workshop on the 2nd Friday of every month. The theme of each workshop varies each month. Veterans Memorial Hall, 400 Hartz Ave., Danville. For more information call the Danville Area Chamber of Commerce at (925) 837-4400. May 16 Danville Area Chamber Red Carpet Mixer 5:30-7:30pm. Join us for the Red Carpet Mixer! Presented by The Danville Area Chamber of Commerce and Rodda Films. Thank you to our host, The Village Theatre and Art Gallery for hosting this special networking event. Taking place at 233 Front Street, Danville. For more information call the Chamber at (925) 837-4400. Members $5, Non-Members, $10. May 16 San Ramon Chamber of Commerce Third Thursday Mixer 5:30-7pm. Come out and network with other business owners. The Third Thursday Mixer will happen at Summit Financial Group, Located at 2000 Crow Canyon Place, San Ramon 94583.Meet other business owners for an opportunity to network and make your business more visible. For more information call Kathy Fanning at (925) 242-0600. Pricing: $5 for Members and $20 for Non-Members. No RSVP Required. Checks and cash only. May 30 Walnut Creek Chamber of Commerce BASH 5:30-7:30pm. Our May BASH is hosted by the Center for Sports Medicine,1777 Botelho Dr., #110 in Walnut Creek. Our hosts have a wonderful BASH planned! This event is FREE to all Walnut Creek Chamber Members; please remember to bring your business card. Non-member admission is $20.00 [cash only] and a business card. BNI Every Thursday Noon-1:30pm. We are actively looking for new members to refer business to in the trades. We need a plumber, electrician, handyman and cleaning service but are also looking for other professions like property manager, event planner and many others. Mo Mo’s Restaurant, 1444 North California Blvd., Walnut Creek. 925-330-8275 or david@staff.webquarry.com
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.
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BBR-Partners for Success 1st and 3rd Tuesdays 12-1pm. One of the Danville Area Chamber of Commerce’s successful Business by Referral groups, Partners for Success meets the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month to provide concrete business leads to one another. Chamber Conference Room, 117 E Town & Country Drive, Danville. www. danvilleareachamber.com BBR-Sunrise Alliance 2nd and 4th Wednesdays 7:30-8:30am. One of the Danville Area Chamber of Commerce’s successful Business by Referral groups, Sunrise Alliance meets the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month to provide concrete business leads to one another. Chamber Conference Room, 117 E Town & Country Drive. Danville. www.danvilleareachamber.com CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS April 12 California Writers Club: Making the Mud Pie into a Palace: How to Revise Your Novel featuring Rachel Herron 11am-2pm Featuring Rachel Herron: Making the Mud Pie into a Palace: How to Revise Your Novel, at the next luncheon meeting of the Mt. Diablo Branch of the California Writers Club (CWC) at Zio Fraedo’s Restaurant, 611 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill. Sign-in is from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm, luncheon 12:00 pm to 12:45, including a short business meeting, and speaker from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm. Registration is $25 for CWC members, $30 for guests. Reservations at https://cwcmtdiablo. org/current-cwc-mt-diablo-meeting/. Alamo Danville Newcomers Club On Summer Break, Back in August Danville Veteran Service Organizations 8am-11am Every Saturday at Veterans Memorial Building of San Ramon Valley – in Danville – the VSOs jointly host a “Veterans Coffee Social” from 8AM until 11AM… Bring a friend or fellow Veteran and show them the museum - share some social time. Drop In - no reservations – all Veterans welcome… stop for a few minutes - or stay for hours! Please share information about our VMB /SRV Military Museum & Library open daily M-F from 9-3 and it’s free! Tri-Valley Fly Fishers Visitors welcome. Meetings feature speakers who share their knowledge of the sport. Held at 7:00 PM on the first Thursday of every month, September through June at the LivermorePleasanton Rod and Gun Club, 4000 Dagnino Road, Livermore, CA 94551. Information: email Roger Perry at President@Tri-valleyflyfishers.org Danville-Alamo-Walnut Creek Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) Advances equity for women and girls. AAUW membership is open to all graduates of accredited four year colleges or universities and those holding an Associate Degree. For information contact Soni at 286-1737 for details. Visit daw-ca.aauw.net for meeting dates. Cancer workshops and support groups-Ongoing Most are FREE. Cancer Support Community, 3276 McNutt Avenue, Walnut Creek. Information / reservations call 925-933-0107 or visit www.cancersupportcommunity.net. Fibro? CFIDS? Chronic Pain? If these are familiar to you, call about the San Ramon Valley support group for people who need support, information, classes and friendship from people who know what it’s like. We like to laugh while getting well. Call 925-837-0510. Hope Hospice Grief Support Groups–Ongoing Hope Hospice provides support to
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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 dropin group. To register, please call Hospice of the East Bay: (925) 887-5681. Information: www.hospiceeastbay.org RECURRING Mondays: The Walnut Creek Garden Club 9:45am: The Walnut Creek Garden Club meets on the second Monday of each month at The Gardens at Heather Farm Camellia Room. The center is just off Ygnacio Valley Road at 1540 Marchbanks Drive. Call 925-947-1678 for directions. The business meeting is at 9:45am, socializing time is at 10am, and the program is at 11am. Contact mslittle44@gmail.com for more information. Sons In Retirement (Las Trampas Branch) Monthly Luncheon 11:15am. Meets the third Monday of each month, except for May and December. Make new friends and participate in fun activities. Make $25 luncheon reservations by calling 925322-1160 by the preceding Wednesday. Boundary Oak, 3800 Valley Vista Road, Walnut Creek. Information: visit www. branch116.org. Danville Rotary 12pm. Meets every Monday. Black Bear Diner, 807 Camino Ramon, Danville. Information: danvillerotary.org. San Ramon Alzheimer Support Group 7-9pm. Meets the second Monday of each month, except on holidays. Sponsored by the Alzheimer Association. Caregivers of Alzheimer victims can get information on how to help them through this difficult time in life. San Ramon Senior & Community Center, 9300 Alcosta Blvd., San Ramon. Information: 925-973-3250 Tuesdays: TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) We meet every Tuesday at St. Timothy’s Office Building, Grace House, Basement 1550 Diablo Rd. Danville CA Our hours: Weigh in 8:30 - 9:30am, meeting is 9:30 - 10:30am. We are a weight loss club. Information, please call Mary Stoneburner, at (925) 837-1882 Danville am Toastmasters 7-8:30am. Want to improve your speaking and presentation skills? Toastmasters can help! Meets every Tuesday in downtown Danville. www.4143. toastmastersclubs.org Danville/Sycamore Valley Rotary 7am. Meets every Tuesday morning. Crow Canyon Country Club, Danville. Information: dsvrotary.com. Diablo View Toastmasters 8:30-9:30am. Meets every Tuesday on the first floor at Realty One, 2355 San Ramon Valley Blvd., Danville. Information: 4160.toastmastersclubs.org. San Ramon Valley Geneological Society 10am. Meets every third Tuesday at the LDS Church, 2949 Stone Valley Road, Alamo. http://srvgensoc.org Walnut Creek Rotary 12:15-1:30pm. Meets every Tuesday. Heather Farms Garden Center, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: rotarywc.org.
ARF Pet Loss Support Group 5:30-7pm. Meets second Tuesday of every month. Register with Vicki at 925-887-5681 or vickis@hospiceeastbay.org. ARF, 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: arf.net.
Divorced and Separated Workshop 7- 8:30pm. A new workshop series for divorced and separated people is being held on at St. Joan of Arc Parish, 2601 San Ramon Valley Blvd., San Ramon. Contact: Sue at smc9@ sbcglobal.net. 925 -819-1809. Prostate Cancer Group 7:30–9pm. Meets 2nd Tuesday of the month. Drop-in prostate cancer group for men and their loved ones. San Ramon Regional Medical Center, South Building, West Day Room. 6001 Norris Canyon Road, San Ramon. Information: 925.933.0107 or www.twc-bayarea.org/communityprograms.html. Wednesdays: American Legion Post 246, meets First Wednesdays at 12:00 noon at The VMB building upstairs 400 Hartz Danville Danville Tennis Club (DTC) 6:30-9 PM Wednesday Night DropIn Tennis at San Ramon Valley High School, 501 Danville Blvd., for men and women of 4.0 level or above (and strong 3.5). Also have USTA teams and social events. Join free at https://groups.yahoo.com/ neo/groups/danvilletennisclub/info Walnut Creek Toastmasters 7-8:15pm. Meets every Wednesday. 1660 Oak Park Blvd., Pleasant Hill. Information: walnutcreek.freetoasthost.net Sons in Retirement (San Ramon Valley chapter) Monthly Luncheon 10:30am; Social Hour, 11:35am meeting and lunch. Meets the 3rd Wed. of each month. Reservations, please email us at www.info@sir128.com by Friday prior to the luncheon. Bridges Golf Club, 9000 S. Gale Ridge Rd., San Ramon. Exchange Club of San Ramon Valley 12pm. Meets the second Wednesday of every month. Sign-in and social time begins at 11:30. Guests are welcome with lunch reservations. Faz Restaurant, 600 Hartz Ave., Danville. RSVP 925-275-2412. Info: www. srvexchangeclub.org Alamo Rotary 12:15pm. Meets every Wednesday. Crow Canyon Country Club, 711 Silver Lake Dr., Danville. Info: alamorotary.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. Danville Lions Club 6:30pm. Meets the first and third Wednesday at the Crow Canyon Country Club, 711 Silver Lake Dr., Danville. Information: Truman Howard 925-787-2565 truman.howard@ gmail.com San Ramon Valley Rotary 7pm. Meets every Wednesday. Blackhawk Country Club, 599 Blackhawk Club Drive, Danville. Info: sanramonvalleyrotary.com. Blue Star Moms 7-9pm. Meets the second Wednesday of every month to participate in service activities supporting sons/ daughters serving in the military. Danville Veterans Memorial Building, 400 Hartz Ave. Information: bluestarmoms.org. Diablo Valley Quilters 7-9pm. Meets the third Wednesday of every month. No charge for guests.
Danville Congregational Church, 989 San Ramon Valley Blvd., Danville. Information: diablovalleyquilters.com. Veterans of Foreign Wars 7pm. Meets the third Wednesday of every month. Veterans Memorial Hall, 400 Hartz Avenue, Danville. Information: Post Commander Ernie Petagara at 925-362-9806 or vfwpost75.org. Diablo Singles Dance Club 7-10pm. Meets the last Wednesday of every month. Live music, refreshments. Members $8, Guests $12. All welcome. 111N. Wiget Lane, Walnut Creek. Danville Toastmasters Club #1785 7:30-9pm. Meets every Wednesday. Room W204 at Diablo Valley College,1690 Watermill Road, San Ramon. Information: danvilletoastmasters1785.com. Thursdays: Danville Alamo Garden Club Meets on the 2nd Thursday of the months between September and June starting at 9:15 am at the Alamo Women’s Club 1401 Danville Blvd, Alamo. If you have any questions, contact Susan at membershipvp@dagc.us or go to our website: www.dagc.us. The Danville Women’s Club Please join the GFWC Danville Women’s Club at 242 W. Linda Mesa Ave., Danville, for our monthly luncheon. Reservations required. Contact Marijke at (925) 997-2197 to make your reservation. Lunch is free for first-timers, $8 for others. 11 a.m.: socializing; 11:30: speaker; 12:00 lunch; 12:45 business meeting. You’re welcome to stay for our meeting to learn more about us. San Ramon Valley Newcomers 11:30am-2pm. Meets the third Thursday of every month with a featured guest speaker at a local Tri-Valley restaurant. New and long-time adult residents are welcome. Reservations/information: susansgotbling@sbcglobal.net or www.srvnc.com. Rotary Club of San Ramon 11:45am. Meets every Thursday. Crow Canyon Country Club, 711 Silver Lake Drive, Danville. Information: sanramonrotary.org. San Ramon Valley Kiwanis Club Thursdays at Noon. Black Bear Diner, 807 Camino Ramon, Danville. www.kiwanis-srv.org
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Clutterers Anonymous 7-8pm. Meets the 2nd and 4th Thursday of every month. St. Luke’s Lutheran Church Room 3, 2 491 San Miguel Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: 925-736-8627. Diablo Valley Lions Club 7:30pm. Meets the 1st, 3rd, and 4th Thursday of every month. 1400 Montego Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: diablovalleyca.lionwap.org. Fridays: Montelindo Garden Club (third Friday of every month, September through May) at 9 am, St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, 66 St. Stephens Drive, Orinda, CA. Everyone is welcome. Questions? Contact wconstantine@ comcast.net. Or call 925-284-8193. Transitions-“Navigating Life’s Turning Points Together” 9-11:30am. Our mission is to encourage and support women from empty nest, to aging parents and everything in between. Community Presbyterian Church, Room 116, 222 W. El Pintado Rd., Danville. Information: Contact Donna Hill at hillmom3@comcast.net Saturdays: Diablo Region of the Porsche Club of America 7:30-9am. Meets every Saturday. Buttercup Bar and Grill, 660 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek. Information: diablo-pca.org. Parkinson’s Disease Support Group 9am-12pm. Meets every 3rd Saturday. Join us to share, laugh, and learn from each other. Grace Presbyterian Church, 2100 Tice Valley Blvd., Walnut Creek. Contact Gregg Riehl at 925254-8349 or jgriehl@gmail.com. Free. All are welcome. Information: Howard Zalkin at 939-4210 or Ronnie Wanetick at 933-6357.
Classifieds HELP WANTED Sales Executive: Sentinel Newspapers, Inc. has an immediate opening for an advertising sales person for the Valley Sentinel. Sales territory includes Danville, Alamo, San Ramon, and Walnut Creek. Sales experience helpful. Will train the right person. Must have an outgoing personality and a positive attitude. This is a commission-only position. 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
925-820-6047
P.O Box 130 Danville, CA 94526 www.valleysentinel.com
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AUTO March 2009 May 2019
2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback XSE By David and Judy Colman
For 2019, Toyota has added the Corolla Hatchback to its short list of completely revamped products based on the new TNGA global architecture program. This move insures that the newest addition to the Corolla family offers the latest advances in platform strength, crash safety and packaging convenience. We spent a pleasurable week behind the fat leather rimmed steering wheel of a handsome Oxide Brown Metallic Corolla. Its XSE trim level provided our test hatchback with virtually everything Toyota has to offer on a Corolla. Five years ago you couldn’t buy any new Corolla with a Navigation System. Now Navigation is just one of the many available features on this still low entry price ($24,090) vehicle. With the addition of a $1,600 “Upgrade Entune 3.0 JBL Premium” package, the XSE offers not only Dynamic Navigation and Voice Recognition, but also Premium JBL Audio with an App Suite, an 8 inch touchscreen, plus
Amazon Alexa/Apple CarPlay integration. Tack on another $375 for a wild looking rear window spoiler and you’ve got yourself this 33MPG Corolla for a total outlay of $27,823. With its dramatically redesigned, trufflesniffing snout, and gigantic roof top air flap, the latest Corolla looks and drives like no previous econobox from Toyota ever did. For those concerned with safety, the latest Corolla also includes all the features of the updated Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 system: Pre-Collision and Pedestrian Recognition, Full Speed Range Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning with Steering Assist, Blind Spot Monitor, Lane Tracing Assist, and Road Sign Recognition. Additionally, the usual bevy of performance enhancements are present to keep the driving situation under control: traction control, vehicle stability control, antilock brakes, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, and smart stop technology. Still assisting these various nannies in their oversight function is the driver, who is
strapped into a commendably supportive front seat, and given a good clear view of the road to the front, to the sides and to the rear. The driver controls a 2.0 liter inline 4 cylinder, fuel injected M20A-FKS motor which drives the front wheels through a CVT transmission. Engine output is 168hp. Sport driving mode is available at the push of a console button, though you need to reactivate this mode each time you restart the Corolla. The Corolla’s manual states that “Sport mode controls the engine and transmission to provide quick, powerful acceleration... and also changes the steering feel, making it suitable for when agile driving response is desired.” We could not detect any difference between the Normal and Sport modes, and the steering feedback seemed overly light regardless of mode selected. The Corolla handles well in all driving modes. With typical front wheel drive performance, it grips bends with satisfying adhesion until the front end starts to wash out near the limit
of grip. Unlike the standard Corolla’s 16x7 inch wheels, the XSE is equipped with fat alloy “machined wheels” that measure 18x8 inches, and mount Dunlop SP Sport 5000 mud and snow rated tires (treadwear rating of TW 340 and Traction rating of B). These grippy rims and tires deserve more of an engine punch than the M20A-FKS engine is capable of providing. 168hp in a vehicle weighing 2,900lbs. yields a lackluster power-to-weight ratio of 17.2hp/lb. Although the CVT transmission offers artificially stepped ratios and paddle shifts, you will find yourself constantly fiddling with those paddles for more passing power. We queried the Voice Recognition System for “More Power Please,” but the response we received was unintelligible. The hatchback design makes ownership of this Corolla quite convenient. Even if you carry 4 adults inside the cabin, the 13 cubic feet of trunk space will suffice for the quartet’s baggage storage requirements. Even without benefit of a sunroof, this interior is spacious, well lit, and nicely finished.
valleysentinel.com Contrasting stitching and fabric seat inserts relieve the tedium of the abundant vinyl trim panels. The Corolla interior is laid out with convenience of operation foremost. Thankfully, the dash offers a complete row of fixed buttons to control basic HVAC operations, without resorting to screen buried menus. From a safety and value viewpoint, the all new Corolla hatchback marks a substantial advance over its predecessor. It not only looks much better, but also packs more features than ever into its predictably reliable chassis. The striking grace of its new silhouette is just icing on the yummy cake. 2 01 9 To y o t a C o r o l l a Hatchback XSE Engine: 2.0 liter in line 4, direct injection, DOHC, 16 valves Horespower: 168hp Torque: 128lb.-ft Fuel Consumption: 30MPG City/38 MPG Highway Price As Tested: $27,823 Hypes: Stunning New Shape, Safety Sense Suite Standard Gripes: Needs More HP, Slippery Hatch Shape Hard to Lift and Shut Star Rating: 9 Stars out of 10
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Help Protect Your Neighborhood from Wildfires By Candace Andersen. Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors
Californians know all too well about the damage wildfires can cause and the constant threat they pose. Just last year, our State endured its deadliest and most destructive blaze to date; The “Camp Fire” in Butte County ravaged over 150,000 acres while destroying 13,972 residences and 528 commercial buildings. Most significantly, the lives of 86 civilians were taken in the wake of the fire. The East Bay, which we proudly call home, is not exempt from experiencing similar devastation. With its geography, weather patterns, and vegetation, the region is a highly vulnerable location for reoccurring wildfires. While we may not be able to prevent another disastrous wildfire from occurring in our communities, we can help fellow citizens prepare for a wildfire event to reduce potential damage and be as prepared as possible. With wildfire season fast-approaching, my office is proudly working with
the offices of other elected officials, agencies, nonprofits, corporations, and local businesses to inform my constituents about the resources available to them, and the steps they can take to best equip themselves in regard to wildfire preparedness. One great resource in particular for all Contra Costa and Alameda County residents is the Diablo Firesafe Council, a public service non-profit organization. DFSC serves as a catalyst for bringing residents, agencies, and other resources together to reduce the impact of wildfires on our communities. Operating in both Alameda and Contra Costa County, DFSC serves 2.5 million residents and covers 1,500 square miles. To accomplish its goals, DFSC uses its non-profit status to bring in grants, both at the state and federal level, and provides fiscal sponsorship to community groups. In addition to its grant funding, DFSC also garners funds from corporations and individual donations. DFSC relies on more than monetary contributions, however. DFSC notes that participation and “sweat equity” from community members are equally important. DFSC encourages communities to develop groups focused on their own unique issues related to wildfire
preparedness, with DFSC providing resources. Perhaps the most effective way for residents to get involved in wildfire preparedness at the moment is to join its CostShare Program. The CostShare Program is for groups of homeowners, with a minimum requirement of five members. (DFSC does not fund work on a single person’s property.) The Cost-Share program provides aid of up to $5,000 per project and is open for groups to hire a contractor to reduce fuel loads and create defensible space on their property. DFSC is currently sponsoring defensible space f u e l re d u c t i o n p ro j e c t s, with emphasis on areas prioritized in the Alameda County and Contra Costa County Community Wildfire Protection Plans, or where homeowners associations, civic organizations and other groups of individuals are organized and available to promote fire safe efforts. Projects may include chipping or green waste removal of homeowner cut material; mowing tree thinning, removal of small dead trees, brush cutting, or grazing. Immediate funding will be available for chipping or removal of homeowner cut materials. Projects that have possible environmental concerns or the ability to
Exterior hazard abatement standards have been designed to minimize fire hazards throughout the District. All properties not in compliance will be placed on the abatement list and fees will be assessed in the form of a lien on the property, according to SRVFPD. Constituents may also participate in free wildfire preparedness classes put on by SRVFPD, and even offer to bring the class to your Homeowners Association or group. To register for a class or arrange a workshop for your group, visit www. firedepartment.org/community/ classes/wildfire-preparedness. The phone number for the San Ramon Valley Fire Exterior Hazard Abatement Program is (925) 838-6600. 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.
disturb protected species will be reviewed for impacts prior to funding. Best management practices will need to be incorporated into all ground disturbing fuel reduction work. Interested applicants may obtain an application at www. diablofiresafe.org/pdf/Costshare_2019-20_application.pdf. Applications will be reviewed for funding on a rolling basis once every quarter, with May 10th and August 9th currently listed as the next two deadlines. Visit the Diablo Fire Safe Council web site at www. diablofiresafe.org for more information on selection criteria and an application. You may also contact DFSC Executive Coordinator Cheryl Miller at DFSCMiller@comcast. net or (510) 282-1265. The San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District (SRVFPD) also offers a program for residents to get involved in wildfire preparedness with its Exterior Hazard Abatement program. The program is intended to reduce or prevent the spread of wildfire from one property to another. The San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District notifies thousands of property owners in wildland urban interface areas of the requirement for exterior hazard abatement annually. Exterior hazard abatement addresses any overgrowth of grasses, weeds, shrubbery or trees.
Interested in Participating in Government?
Supervisor Candace Andersen is Seeking Volunteers for County Advisory Boards Supervisor Candace A n d e rs e n i s l o o k i n g f o r interested, motivated residents to serve on a few Contra Costa County citizen advisory boards. These volunteer boards usually meet monthly and advise the Board of Supervisors on a variety of issues. They play a vital role in county government, and the input provided is invaluable. Applications are currently being accepted from residents of District 2 (Alamo, Canyon, Danville, Lafayette, Moraga, Orinda, Parkmead, Rossmoor, San Ramon, Saranap, Walnut Creek-West of N. Main Street) for seats on the following boards: Alamo Police Services Advisory Committee (CSA P-2B) To advise the Board of Supervisors and the Sheriff’s Department on the needs of the Alamo/Danville community for police services. Community Corrections Partnership, Community Advisory Board (AB109)
Central and East County representation needed http:// w w w. c c c o u n t y. u s / 41 6 5 / Community-Advisory-Board To p rov i d e i n p u t o n community needs; assess implementation of the realignment plan; review data on realignment outcomes; advise the CCP on community engagement strategies; offer recommendations for ongoing realignment planning; advise County agencies regarding programs for implementation in the County; and encourage outcomes that are consistent with the County’s Reentry Strategic Plan. Mental Health Commission https://cchealth. org/mentalhealth/mhc/ To influence the County’s Mental Health System to ensure the delivery of quality services which are effective, efficient, culturally relevant and responsive to the needs and desires of the clients it serves with dignity and respect; and to be the advocate with the Board of Supervisors, the
Mental Health Division, and the community on behalf of all Contra Costa County residents who are in need of mental health services. Two District 2 Seats are expiring, a Consumer Seat and an At Large Seat. Contra Costa Sustainability Commission - One member representing a Contra Costa County commercial group or organization whose business focuses on sustainability and/or environmental issues http://www.co.contra-costa. ca.us/6393/SustainabilityCommission Provide Advice to staff and the Board on successful implementation of the Climate Ac t i o n P l a n , i n c l u d i n g suggestions on how that work can be performed more efficiently and effectively; Advise the Board on opportunities to realize equity and fairness across the diverse communities of Contra Costa County in sustainability programs that support the Climate Action Plan; Provide suggestions to staff and the Board on how
to better engage Contra Costa County residents and businesses on sustainability issues and implementation of the Climate Action Plan. Applications are due Monday, April 29, 2019 by 5PM. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis, unless indicated otherwise.
For more information about each board go to https://cacontracostacounty2.civicplus. com/6408/Boards-and-Commissions-Database Or you may contact Jill Ray, Field Representative at 925-957-8860 or jill.ray@bos. cccounty.us.
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