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always for the community VOL 24 NO 11
November 2019
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SPOTLIGHT
Happy Thanksgiving from The Valley Sentinel
Apollo 11 at Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum—USS Hornet in the Limelight By Bob Fish
It was a memorable evening at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum auditorium in Washington, DC on October 22. In spite of the Washington Nationals baseball team playing in
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PRESORTED STANDARD US POSTAGE PAID DANVILLE, CA PERMIT NO. 70
See HORNET page 11
The Sandhill Crane is coming to town By James M. Hale
One of our most elegant and conspicuous winter visitors to the refuges and farmlands in the Sacramento and San Joaquin valleys - the state’s great Central Valley- is the tall, migratory Greater Sandhill Crane (Grus canadensis tabida). Its loud trumpetlike call is audible over long distances. While conducting research in the high Sierra at 7,400 feet on several occasions, I heard thousands of Sandhill Cranes calling as they m i g ra t e d f ro m t h e i r s u m m e r breeding grounds on their way to their wintering habitat. They were barely visible thousands of feet above the Sierra crest in expansive, V-shaped flocks. The pale, silver gray adults with a bare, red crown stand almost 5 feet tall. Their wings span almost 7 feet. Adults may weigh more than 15 pounds. The adult plumage
often becomes stained rusty from iron oxides in the water. Immature birds have reddish -brown plumage and lack the red crown. Sexes look alike. A bustle of shaggy feathers h a n g s ove r t h e r u m p o f standing birds. In flight, with slow downbeat wing strokes and quick upstrokes, the neck and legs are fully extended. Six subspecies have been recognized in recent times. The Sandhill Crane has one of the oldest and longest fossil histories of any bird still found today. A 10 million year old crane fossil from Nebraska may be a prehistoric relative or the direct ancestor. The oldest definitive Sandhill Crane fossil is 2.5 million years old, over one and a half times older than the earliest remains of most living species of birds.
A single, life size Native A m e r i c a n M a r t i s c u l t u re sandhill crane petroglyph in the Sierra on a granite boulder may be thousands of years old and the only one identifi ed to date. Sandhill Cranes are social birds that are usually encountered in pairs or family groups through the year and during the breeding season. During migration and winter, large flocks of non-related birds gather to forage and roost together. Sometimes thousands congregate at these sites. Sandhill Cranes are mainly herbivorous as they forage for seeds and other plant material in shallow wetlands and various upland habitat. Cultivated grains such as corn, rice, wheat, and sorghum support large
This Month’s Special Sections Sentinel Newspapers, Inc. P.O. Box 130 Danville, CA 94526 925-820-6047
Holiday Happenings Senior Living page 10
pages 8-9
numbers of cranes in the Great Valley and Sacramento - San Joaquin delta during winter. B e r r i e s, s m a l l m a m m a l s, insects, snails, reptiles and amphibians supplement their diet. See CRANES page 5
Walnut Creek, CA - Bedford Gallery is thrilled to announce that renowned Bay Area artists Monica Canilao and Xara Thustra, known together as MCXT, have completed their commissioned mural on Civic Park’s Assembly Hall.
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
This vibrant mural was painted in the artists' signature style with brilliant colors and a rich mix of narrative and abstract shapes. To create the mural, the artists handmixed 90 custom colors over the course of two days. The resulting viewing experience is similar to looking into a kaleidoscope. The meticulously painted patterns create an optical wonderland for eyes to explore. The lovingly rendered details in the mural allow for an interactive and playful opportunity for viewers.
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THE VALLEY SENTINEL
November 2019
valleysentinel.com this exceptional concert. $25. Village Theater, 233 Front St., Danville. Information: www. villagetheatreshows.com or 925-314-3400.
Monica Canilao and Xara Thustra Paint Mural Emerging fromColorful the pulsating backdrop are a family of in animals including a deer, a group of singing birds, and an owl. All of these Walnut Creek native creatures were Downtown Walnut Creek placed in the mural as a reminder to viewers of their connection to their ecosystem. Those who lookGallery even more will find were several hidden Bedford is closely proudattothe mural creatures placedwords in the tucked into the details of the painting. These words form the title of the mural “We announce that renowned Bay mural as a reminder to viewers Well All Be”, and refer to the symbiotic relationship the artists hope viewers will Area artists Monica Canilao of their contemplate. Monica Canilao and and Xara Thustra explain:connection to their
Xara Thustra, known together ecosystem. Those who look even We would hope that 'we will all be well'… but that is on us to decide. In our as MCXT, have completed their more closely at the mural will ecosystem the health and prosperity of one thing affects the other... when commissioned onwhen Civic several hidden words feel tucked one thrivesmural all thrive, we hurtfind the environment all creatures the Park’s Assembly Hall at 1375plants into details the painting. effects. We animals, humans, andthe nature are allof connected and this imagein is Walnut a reminder of that deep bond. Same molecules Civic Drive Creek These words formand thesame titlefuture… of the we all came from stardustwas and willmural return to stardust is what do This vibrant mural “We Welland All itBe”, andwe refer with our time that matters. painted in the artists’ signature to the symbiotic relationship style with brilliant colors and the the artists hope viewers This effervescent mural enhances and enlivens urban streetscape of the will core,of adds to Walnut Creek’s mural collection, adowntown rich mix narrative and burgeoning contemplate. Monicainspires Canilao enthusiasmshapes. for publicTo art and creativity and enriches Walnut abstract create the in the andcommunity, Xara Thustra explain: Creek’s Public Art Walking Tours. Bedford Gallery and the Public Art Program are mural, the artists hand-mixed We would hope that ‘we 90 custom colors over the course will all be well’… but that is on of two days. The resulting us to decide. In our ecosystem viewing experience is similar to the health and prosperity of one looking into a kaleidoscope. The thing affects the other... when meticulously painted patterns one thrives all thrive, when create an optical wonderland we hurt the environment all for eyes to explore. The lovingly creatures feel the effects. We rendered details in the mural animals, humans, plants and allow for an interactive and nature are all connected and playful opportunity for viewers. this image is a reminder of that Emerging from the pulsating deep bond. Same molecules backdrop are a family of animals and same future… we all came including a deer, a group of from stardust and will return to singing birds, and an owl. All stardust and it is what we do of these Walnut Creek native with our time that matters.
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Center Rep Presents: Native Gardens Now - November 16 From the outrageous mind of playwright Karen Zacarías (The Book Club Play) comes this hot new comedy where gardens and cultures clash, turning friendly neighbors into feuding enemies in this hilarious comedy of good intentions and bad manners! When a questionable fence line puts a prize-worthy garden in jeopardy, neighborly rivalry escalates into an all-out border dispute, challenging everyone’s notions of race, privilege and where to draw the line on good taste. $35–$85 Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: www. lesherartscenter.org or 925943-SHOW (7469).
Off Menu: Contemporary Art about Food Now - December 15 View astounding gastronomical artwork by renowned artists such as Salvador Dalí, Judith Linhares, Wayne Thiebaud and Kenny Schar.f Bedford Gallery, Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. Information: www.bedfordgallery.org or 925-295-1417.
FOR FALL 2020 ENROLLMENT
The Faith Chorale 2019 2nd Annual Concert November 9 5pm. Enjoy an Evening of Gospel Song with The Faith Chorale. 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. Danville Children’s Musical Theatre Presents: Frozen Jr. November 14-23 You’ll love this fanciful and heartwarming stage adaptation of the top-grossing animated film of all time! Join Anna, Elsa, and all of your favorite characters as they embark on an epic, ice-filled journey of selfdiscovery, camaraderie, and the real meaning of true love. Adapted for young performers, this musical includes favorite Frozen songs such as “Love Is an Open Door,” “Do You Want to Build a Snowman?,” and “Let It Go,” as well as wonderful new songs from the Broadway production. With its empowering message of love and understanding, Frozen JR. is sure to melt your heart! $8 $10. Village Theater, 233 Front St., Danville. Information: www.villagetheatreshows.com or 925-314-3400.
Grades 6-8 January 11 1:00 pm Grades 9-12 January 12 1:00 pm To register for an Open House, please visit our Admission webpage and choose “Apply Now”
Na Mele Koho ‘la -Choice Songs November 9 2pm & 8pm. Favorite Hawaiian and Tahitian dances, songs, chants, and music selected by the dancers of Na Mamo No’eau will highlight
Dixieland Jazz November 16 1:30-4:30Pm. On the 3rd Saturday of every month you can enjoy the music of the Devil Mountain Jazz Band. Bring your own beverages, snacks and a friend or two! There is a large dance floor and lots of free parking. $15. Grange Hall, 743 Diablo Road, Danville. Information Visit
Www.jazznut.com or phone 625-2707. San Ramon Library Foundation Presents: Erik Jekabson New Orleans Band November 16 7 : 3 0 P M . Tr u m p e t e r / Composer/Arranger/Educator Erik Jekabson will lead an All-Star six-piece band to transport you right to Bourbon St. in New Orleans, featuring t h e amazing Kenny Washington on vocals. $20.00 - $25.00. San Ramon Library, 100 Montgomery Street, San Ramon. Information: 925-973-3343 or SanRamonPerformingArts. com.
Mozart and his Mentor Presented by California Symphony featuring Annie Wu, flute November 16 - 17 Mozart—Symphony No. 1 Puts—Flute Concerto Haydn—Symphony No. 104 This program features Mozart’s first symphony, which he wrote at age eight and Haydn’s final symphony, written when Haydn was 63. Mozart and Haydn became fast friends in Vienna in the 1780s. Although Haydn was 24 years Mozart’s senior and his mentor, Haydn’s later works–including Symphony No. 104 on this program–were in turn influenced by the young prodigy. The Flute Concerto was composed by Kevin Puts, California Symphony Composer-in-Residence alum (1996-1999). The Bay Area’s Annie Wu performs it here. $42-$72. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: www. lesherartscenter.org or 925943-SHOW (7469). Macbeth Presented by The Ballet School’s Performing Arts Studio featuring Teen Actors Studio November 22 7:15pm. Performing Arts Studio is a theatre program
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT dining out • music • art • theater • fun events
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of The Ballet School. Join the Teen Actors Studio as they present Shakespeare’s Macbeth. $20. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: www.lesherartscenter.org or 925-943-SHOW (7469).
Smuin’s The Christmas Ballet November 22 - 23 With snow white classical selections set to cherished carols alongside red-hot contemporary numbers set to pop favorites, this yuletide spectacular is a beloved Bay Area tradition. Celebrate the holidays with a dazzling collection of ballet, tap, and jazz. $59-$85. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: www.lesherartscenter.org or 925-943-SHOW (7469).
TPW presents Elfie The Christmas Doll November 29-December 1 Elfie is the lovable Christmas doll that lives with the Johnson family. Every Christmas, the Johnsons put Elfie on display for the whole family to enjoy and remind the children about the true meaning of Christmas. But things take a turn for the worst when the Johnson family moves away to a new city and accidentally leaves Elfie behind! So Elfie must travel alone across the country to find his family. Along the way, Elfie will meet amazing people and learn about other cultures besides Christmas. Elfie will need the help of Santa, Rudolph, Frosty and many others if he is going to return to his family in time for Christmas. $8 - $10. Village Theater, 233 Front St., Danville. Information: www. villagetheatreshows.com or 925-314-3400.
November 2019 Godspell Jr. Presented by Poison Apple Productions featuring Youth Performers November 29 - December 1 The original Godspell was the first major musical theatre offering from threetime Grammy and Academy Aw a r d - w i n n e r, S t e p h e n Schwartz, and it took the world by storm. Boasting a score with chart topping songs, Godspell JR. is a sensation that continues to touch audiences. $22. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: www. lesherartscenter.org or 925943-SHOW (7469). Holiday Concert Presented by Walnut Creek Concert Band December 3 7:30pm. Ring in the s e a s o n w i t h t h e Wa l n u t Creek Concert Band and your favorite Holiday songs with some special musical gifts. $17.50. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: www. lesherartscenter.org or 925943-SHOW (7469).
P re s c h o o l Pe r f o r m a n c e Series: Magician: Phil Ackerly December 6 10 a m . M a k i n g l i t t l e ones laugh, dance and sing along since 2009, the Town of Danville is pleased to continue this fun series featuring top-level entertainers for preschool-aged children. The 50-minute performances capture their imaginations and make lasting memories. This month’s guest is Phil Ackerly who for over 20 years has amazed and entertained both kids and adults with magic, comedy and fun. (Entertainers can be subject to change.) $5. Village Theater, 233 Front St., Danville. Information: www. villagetheatreshows.com or 925-314-3400. Comedy with Liz Grant & Friends: A monthly Stand up Series December 6 7:30pm. Join Liz Grant and her friends for another great
THE VALLEY SENTINEL
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The Arts and Culture Commission(AC5) honors contributors • Leslie Noel, Founder of
night of comedy. 16+ unless accompanied by an adult. $20. Village Theater, 233 Front St., Danville. Information: www. villagetheatreshows.com or 925-314-3400.
San Ramon Library Foundation Presents: Nicolas Bearde & Trio December 7 7:30PM. Highly sought after both domestically & internationally, Nicolas Bearde invites comparison to Lou Rawls and Joe Williams, but makes his songs his own. Nic will be backed by a terrific trio of musicians as he sizzles with selections from the classic jazz songbook, bluesy renditions and, of course, a nod to the season! $20 - $25. San Ramon Library, 100 Montgomery Street, San Ramon. Information: 925-973-3343 or SanRamonPerformingArts. com.
Monkey See Monkey Do December 8 2pm. Get in the Holiday spirit with festive Improv! Our 75 minute improv show is designed especially for children and their families to enjoy together. The show is made up on the spot based on audience suggestions. They will have a chance to see their ideas come to life onstage and perhaps play a game and get a prize! $ 10 . Fro n t Row T h e a t e r, 17011 Bollinger Canyon Rd, San Ramon. Information: sanramonperformingarts. com or 925- 973-2787.
The Arts and Culture Commission is pleased to honor those who have made a significant artistic or philanthropic contribution to Contra Costa’s Arts and Culture Contra Costa County demonstrates a wealth of artistic expression in every corner of the county. This year we present Seven Arts Recognition Awards to honor outstanding achievements in the Arts. This years honorees are: • D r. L e o n a r d E . Anderson, Founder of the Danville Community Band and Music Educator from Danville • Napoleon Dargan of the Art of Health and Healing Initiative, from San Pablo • Rosalinda Grejsen CoFounder of the Art Guild of the Delta, Inc, from Brentwood
The Peter Pan Foundation, from Lafayette • Kelsey Wengel with Dougherty Valley High School and the San Ramon Valley Unified School District, from San Ramon AC5 will also be presenting two Commission Special Awards. • L a f a y e t t e To w n Hall Theatre, in Celebration of their 75th Anniversary of presenting theatre of the highest professional standards and their 300th Production • T h e B l u e D e v i l Performing Arts Organization (aka Concord Blue Devils Drum & Bugle Corps) in celebration of their 62nd anniversary and the Blue Devils A Corps for winning their 19th Drum Corps International World Championship.
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THE VALLEY SENTINEL
San Ramon Launches Affordable Home Ownership Program in Partnership with HouseKeys about eligibility and the The City of San Ramon has recently launched a new Below Market Rate (BMR) Home Ownership Program for the sale of 27 affordable units for low and very low income households at Lennar Home’s The Preserve (formerly Faria) development. The City is working with HouseKeys, an Affordable Housing Program Administrator, to assist with the eligibility guidelines and implementation of The Preserve affordable housing program. Interested households will need to register at the following link to learn more
anticipated lottery. Lotteries will be scheduled based on the construction time period, with the first lottery expected at the beginning of 2020, and first BMR occupancies expected in fall 2020. “The City is excited to partner with Lennar Homes and HouseKeys to help firsttime home buyers realize their dream of home ownership in San Ramon,” said Cindy Yee, Senior Planner with the City of San Ramon. For more information, please call San Ramon Deputy City Manager Steven Spedowfski at 925.973.2632 or email spedowfski@sanramon.ca.gov.
Help the City of San Ramon “Name That Park” by Nov. 12 The City of San Ramon is announcing an opportunity for residents to help name San Ramon’s newest park! The 5.4 acre park, currently slated for construction in 2019-20, is located in Phase 3 of the Gale Ranch Development at the corner of South Monarch Road and Main Branch Road. The park’s theme was inspired by the surrounding natural habitat of Alamo Creek and will include whimsical animal features in its playground area including a salamander, frog and fox. The park’s many features will include: two play structures (for ages 2-5 and 6-12), shaded group picnic area, native plants and rocks, a plaza with labyrinth design,
ping pong tables, corn hole game, game tables, four active fitness stations, sand volleyball court, baseball/softball field, and a 1.28 mile walking path. Residents are encouraged to submit their park name ideas using this link http://bit. ly/33WFOUW or via Twitter by tweeting their name submission to @CityofSanRamon with the hashtag #NameThatPark. The names submitted by residents will be reviewed by the San Ramon Parks & Community Services Commission for selection and approval. The deadline for name submissions is November 12, 2019. For more information about the park including the conceptual design, please visit our website at www. SanRamon.ca.gov/parks.
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November 2019
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Alamo News Update Alamo Recreation – Music and Movies By Steve Mick next summer but need to be selected and organized now. This amount of lead The Alamo Municipal time is necessary to comply Advisory Council (MAC) with county requirements. is responsible for advising As you might imagine, the the Contra Costa Board of contract approval process Supervisors on a number of is lengthy and takes time civic issues. These include to work its way through land use policies, roads the system. In addition, and improvements, parks the selection of dates is and recreation and other important to ensure there are topics. In order to achieve the no scheduling conflicts with maximum advisory impact, other valley music concerts the MAC has created several or major school events. Final subcommittees that address dates will be decided before numerous subject areas: the end of the year. Music Land use planning, Trees The subcommittee has and Landscaping, Parks and already met for the first in Recreation, and more. The Parks and Recreation a series of meetings and has s u b c o m m i t t e e h a s a n made some preliminary band especially important and selections. There are several i n t e re s t i n g c h a r t e r. T h e bands that have received recreation portion of the highly favorable responses subcommittee is responsible f ro m c o n c e r t a t t e n d e e s. for planning and arranging These include Sun Kings, the summer concert series a Beatles tribute band, and a n d m o v i e n i g h t s . I t Mike Amaral’s Beach Boys. works closely with county In addition, there is high s t a f f m e m b e rs. T h e re i s interest in an ABBA cover a tremendous amount of band. One genre brought up planning involved with this at the committee meeting was a country band. It was activity. T h e c o n c e r t s a n d a bit surprising to see the movies are scheduled for w i d e p o s i t i v e r e s p o n s e
f ro m t h e c o m m i t t e e f o r this suggestion. It would seem that a lot of people are cowboys (and cowgirls) at heart. Movies Movie selection is also a spirited discussion item. The committee strives to select G-Rated movies with wide appeal. Some movies now being considered are Toy Story 4, Gremlins or ET, The Extra Terrestrial . Let us know if you have any suggestions. Odds and Ends Sheriff Brian Sliger is the new Valley Station Commander. As of this writing, the Alamo MAC has an opening f o r a n o t h e r m e m b e r. I f you’re interested, please fill out an application form. Visit the county website at contracosta.ca.gov. Select Our County at the top of the page. Then select Appointed Bodies, Committees & Commissions. Scroll down and select Apply Online PDF Application (PDF) 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.
City of San Ramon Installs Dashed Green Lanes Tto Enhance Road Safety as part of Bicycle Master Plan by all ages and abilities. The City of San Ramon has begun installing new bicycle safety infrastructure along San Ramon Boulevard, from Crow Canyon Road to Bollinger Canyon Road, and along Norris Canyon Road. These areas, marked in green, are designed to draw attention to common “Conflict Zones,” or areas where motorists and cyclists often share use of the road. Drivers may already be familiar with solid green bike lanes and dashed zones, which are portions of the roadway dedicated for cyclists. Dashed green lanes, like those being installed along San Ramon Boulevard, mark areas where bicycles and vehicles often cross paths, and are designed to bring greater visibility and awareness of places where road use is shared. Dashed lanes are used to mark Conflict Zones, which predominantly occur at intersections, often in
areas where drivers may be preparing to turn, while the cycle lane continues straight. When driving in these areas, motorists should watch for cyclists, and be sure the lane is clear before merging into the dashed green zone to make a turn. The green color and style of lane markings installed in San Ramon is consistent with bicycle infrastructure across the State of California; similar lanes can be found in nearby communities such as Danville and Dublin. The new infrastructure is part of San Ramon’s first Citywide Bicycle Master Plan, which was adopted on April 24, 2018, to improve safety and access, and to encourage bicycling throughout the city. Additional information is available to read on the City’s website. San Ramon aspires to remain a bicycle friendly community where the bicycle network is enjoyed
With the implementation of the Bicycle Master Plan, the City hopes residents, students, commuters and visitors will choose to bicycle for trips because it’s safe, comfortable, convenient, and well-integrated throughout the San Ramon community, and provides a healthy and environmentally friendly alternative to driving. “These bicycle safety l a n e s a re t h e n ex t s t e p i n m ov i n g f o r wa rd w i t h the City’s commitment to enhancing infrastructure for cyclists, following the adoption of the Bicycle Master Plan,” said San Ramon’s Tra n s p o r t a t i o n D i v i s i o n Manager Lisa Bobadilla. “These lanes provide a safety enhancement for motorists and cyclists alike.” For more information, please call San Ramon Deputy City Manager Steven Spedowfski at 925.973.2632 or email spedowfski@ sanramon.ca.gov.
valleysentinel.com
November 2019
THE VALLEY SENTINEL
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California Launches Open Enrollment with New Initiatives That Make Health Insurance More Affordable for Millions budget. Depending on their insurance marketplace work Covered California kicked off open enrollment Tuesday for the upcoming 2020 coverage year, which features some of the biggest changes in the exchange’s history. “ O p e n e n ro l l m e n t i s underway, and now is the time to sign up for quality health coverage that will begin on Jan. 1,” said Covered California Executive Director Peter V. Lee. “We want to make sure Californians know about the new state subsidies that mean almost 1 million people can get more help with their premiums, and the restoration of the individual mandate law, which requires people to have health insurance if they can afford it.” The two new state initiatives, the state subsidy program and the restoration of the individual mandate, are key elements in Covered California’s record-low 0.8 percent rate increase for the upcoming year. The new state subsidies will help lower the cost of coverage for almost 1 million California consumers. The main groups of people who are projected to benefit are: • M i d d l e - i n c o m e Californians who previously did not qualify for financial help because their incomes exceeded federal limits. The amount of their subsidy will vary based on their age and income and the health care costs in their region. While the state subsidy for this group will average $172 per household, per month, c o n s u m e rs w i l l n e e d t o input their information to see what amount they would CRANES from page 1
Sandhill Cranes mate for life and reinforce their pair bond with an elaborate courtship dance and display. The pair raise one brood per year. The female lays one to three (usually two) eggs from early April to late May. Both sexes build the nest using plant material in marshes, bogs, swales or on occasion in upland habitat. Both parents incubate the eggs for 29 to 32 days. Upon hatching, the chicks are precocial with their eyes open and covered in down. They are able to leave the nest within 24 hours of hatching. Both parents brood the young for about three weeks and feed them intensively for several weeks,
receive. For example, while some consumers may get a monthly state subsidy of $50, others could get $150, and some could receive a $750 or more. • Covered California e n ro l l e e s w h o c u r re n t l y receive federal financial help could be eligible to receive an average of an additional $15 per household, per month. “California will be making history this year, becoming the first state in the nation to make coverage more affordable for middleincome families like small-businesses owners, entrepreneurs, contractors and gig economy workers,” Lee said. “During our first day of renewal, a family of two from Sonoma received a state subsidy of $630 per month, which is why it’s so important for people to see if they qualify.” In addition, a Covered California analysis found that 75 percent of existing consumers will be able to reduce their cost of coverage and receive the same level of benefits if they switch to the lowest-cost plan in the same metal tier. “Covered California puts consumers in the driver’s seat, and a majority of our c u r re n t e n ro l l e e s c o u l d pay less than they did last year because they can shop around and get a better deal,” Lee said. “Once again, we are making a significant investment to make sure all Californians know there are big changes this year, with new financial support and a new law that requires everyone to have coverage,”
Lee said. “We will be on t e l ev i s i o n a n d ra d i o , i n newspapers and online, and increasingly in the digital wo r l d , w h e re m o re a n d more Californians get their information.” “Consumers need to take action now during open enrollment,” Lee said. “This is when people can sign up to get health insurance and avoid the potential of a big surprise when they file their taxes in 2021.” Getting Help Enrolling Consumers will need to sign up by Dec. 15 in order to have their coverage begin on Jan. 1, 2020. Those interested in learning more about their coverage options can: • V i s i t w w w. CoveredCA.com. • G e t f r e e a n d confidential in-person assistance, in a variety of languages, from a certified enroller. • H a v e a c e r t i f i e d enroller call them and help them for free. • C a l l C o v e r e d California at (800) 300-1506. About Covered California Covered California is the state’s health i n s u r a n c e m a r k e t p l a c e, where Californians can f i n d a f f o rd a b l e, h i g h quality insurance from top insurance companies. Covered California is the only place where individuals who qualify can get financial assistance on a sliding scale to reduce premium costs. Consumers can then compare health insurance plans and choose the plan that works best for their health needs and
and with decreasing frequency until they reach independence at around 10 months old. Sexual maturity is reached at 2 years, although individuals may not breed for up to seven years. Sandhill Cranes can live to at least 21 years of age. The Greater Sandhill Crane is a state threatened species as of 1983. Hunting and habitat change decimated the population and by 1940 fewer than 1,000 birds remained. They have recovered to nearly 100,000 individuals, still far below their historic numbers. Fewer than 300 pairs nest in California, however up to 7,000 individuals winter here. Many migrating cranes are killed in collisions with power lines, windmills and
other obstructions during wintertime fog. Their low reproductive rate makes them vulnerable to catastrophic events. Habitat preservation is key to their survival. For 17 years the city of Lodi has hosted a Sandhill Crane Fe s t i v a l i n N o v e m b e r, celebrating the arrival of overwintering flocks. The Sandhill Crane Refuge in Thornton and other Central Valley refuges are excellent p l a c e s t o o b s e r ve t h e s e magnificent birds during winter and early spring. James M. Hale is a wildlife biologist, ethnobiologist, and ecological consultant based in Contra Costa County. Please visit his website at www. dochale.com.
income, some consumers may qualify for the low-cost or no-cost Medi-Cal program. Covered California is an independent part of the state government whose job is to make the health
for California’s consumers. It is overseen by a five-member b o a rd a p p o i n t e d by t h e governor and the legislature. For more information about Covered California, please visit www.CoveredCA.com.
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page 6
THE VALLEY SENTINEL November 2019
Fire Season—A look into East Bay Regional Parks
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In view of all the recent fire emergencies, it seems appropriate to provide some information about the East Bay Regional Park District Fire Department. The park district maintains a fully equipped and trained fire department with its main station in Tilden Regional Accepting Medicare & Park near Berkeley. Fire engines and other firefighting Most Major PPO Insurance equipment are also in place at other stations throughout the district. The department Micro-Fractional CO2 Laser provides fire prevention, fuels management, education, Skin Resurfacing fire suppression, rescue and Smart Lipo emergency medical services. Providers: Fire Chief Aileen Thiele Fillers Michael J. Tomcik, M.D. is supported by an assistant Bettina Uwalaka, R.N. BBL/IPL fire chief, five fire captains, two fire lieutenants, eight Botox & Dysport firefighters and 38 on-call Micro-Needling w/ Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) firefighters. On-call firefighters are Michael J. Tomcik, MD who have full employees Gift AdvAnced LAser Board Certified Dermatologist Over 35 years experience certificates time district jobs, in addition skin cAre center 101 Park Place available! Medical Group, iNc. to secondary assignments as San Ramon firefighters. All firefighters are 925-743-1488 www.SanRamonDerm.com fully trained. 101 Park Introducing Place, A dispatch center operates Ultherapy 24 hours per day in support Suite 101 • Only FDA approved, procedure of the district’s firefighters San Ramon, CAnon-surgical that focuses ultra sound and police. During a fire, the to stimulate the growth of new district’s collagen two police helicopters • Lifts serve and tightens as observation platforms the skin on neck, to and determine fire location and chin, brow
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speed, and best access for ground crews. The helicopters are equipped with Bambi buckets to fight fire from above with 250-gallon water drops. Besides its own personnel and equipment, the park district has mutual aid agreements with CAL FIRE, the California Office of Emergency Services, and every fire department within Alameda and Contra Costa Counties. This enables rapid response to emergencies both within and outside the parklands. The district has an active program of fire hazard reduction, which includes maintaining an 80-mile fuel break along the ridgelines between Richmond and Castro Valley. This is an area of thinned vegetation designed to delay the spread of fire in either direction between parklands and adjacent residential neighborhoods, while giving firefighters an area in which to make a stand against a fire. During periods when dry weather and high winds increase fire danger, the park district can restrict park use or even, though rarely, close
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parklands. This was the case on Oct. 27 through 31, when all district parks shut down, to protect park users from multiple fires developing in the two counties and from hazards including falling tree branches and downed power lines. The district also relies o n t h e c o o p e ra t i o n a n d assistance of park visitors. Visitors are always asked to exercise extreme care in the regional parks and other public open space. Smoking, including vaping, is prohibited in all the regional parks and trails. When weather permits, barbecues are allowed in areas designed for that purpose, or on portable barbecues in picnic areas, but not in tall, dry grass. If you do see a wildfire in the parklands, call 9-1-1 right away. Report the location, direction of burn, and any structures or people at risk, then leave immediately. Of course visitors should always cooperate with any instructions given by firefighters, police and rangers.
UNANIMOUSLY SUPPORTED BY DANVILLE’S TOWN COUNCIL. Backed by Environmental & Cyclist Organizations.
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Vote Tues., March 3
Dear Danville Neighbors, It’s as simple as this: Magee Preserve means more open space for Danville families and a brighter future for all of us. Last summer the Danville Planning Commission and the Danville Town Council both overwhelmingly approved theVisit one-of-a-kind MageeforPreserve Project and,and with it, nearly 400 acres of new permanent public open space. What does our web site amazing before afternever photos patients to the public, miles of new trails for bikers, hikers and their dogs, and new safer that mean for Danville families? New open space, breathtaking views beforeofaccessible www.SanRamonDerm.com options to Diablo Road for walkers and cyclists. And all of it at no cost to taxpayers. Your chance to vote YES on new open space and a stronger future for Danville is closer than ever. Visit YESonOpenSpace.com to learn more.
Preserves 381 Acres as Permanent Public Open Space YES on Open Space permanently protects 93% of the property as new permanent public open space, ensuring the gateway to Mt. Diablo State Park is forever off-limits from future development.
Miles of New Trails YES on Open Space adds miles of new trails to the East Bay Regional Park District, giving Danville families access to these breathtaking views for the first time and forever.
YESonOpenSpace.com
New Safer Options for Bikers and Walkers YES on Open Space provides land to the Town to fulfill their long-planned multi-purpose path along Diablo Road, creating a new, safer alternative for Danville cyclists and walkers to Mt. Diablo.
Ad paid for by Yes on Open Space, A Coalition of Danville Environmental and Community Leaders; Committee major funding from Davidon Homes
valleysentinel.com
November 2019
THE VALLEY SENTINEL
page 7
$4 Million in State Funding Secured for McCosker Creek Restoration and Public Access Project by Assemblymember Bauer-Kahan The Project Ensures Wildlife and Habitat are Protected and Expands Public Access Assemblymember Bauer-Kahan (D-Orinda) alongside East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD) Board Member Beverly Lane and representatives from EBRPD, toured the McCosker Creek Re s t o r a t i o n a n d P u b l i c Access Project site at Robert Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve. Working with EBRPD, Assemblymember BauerKahan secured $4 million in state funding for the project, which will daylight and restore an over 2,000-foot culverted section of creek in the upper San Leandro watershed. In its current condition, giant sinkholes have opened up over failing metal culverts which cover the creek the culverted stream a n d p rov i d e s n o u s a b l e habitat, water quality is poor and at risk of worsening due to fine sediment loads and dissolved metals. “Preserving our open spaces, protecting wildlife a n d o u r e n v i ro n m e n t i s crucial. It is imperative the failing culvert and creek are cleaned up, stabilized, and converted to habitat as soon as possible,” said Bauer-Kahan. “I am proud to partner with East Bay
Regional Park District to secure funding to complete this project.” The public access amenities will provide opportunities for wildlife viewing, healthy recreation, and environmental education, including interpretive signage as well as a location for rustic group overnight camping. “The Park District thanks Assemblywoman Rebecca Bauer-Kahan for her efforts in securing funding, and supporting East Bay Regional Parks,” said EBRPD Board Member Beverly Lane. “This project returns the land back to its natural state as a thriving creek ecosystem and will provide access so the restored environment can be experienced and appreciated by the public.” “The McCosker Creek Restoration project is the largest creek restoration p ro j e c t i n t h e D i s t r i c t ’s history,” said EBRPD Chief of Stewardship Matt Graul. “The project restores 3,000 linear feet of natural stream channel where it’s been covered up and culverted for the last 60 years.” The stream restoration design will closely model
the predicted pattern, profile, and dimension of a natural stream for this specific valley in order to create a low-maintenance, sustainable riparian and instream habitat in the long term, taking into account a changing climate. The significant project benefits include ecosystem benefits for fish and wildlife, and native and rare plants. Riparian habitat will be created in an area that can support up to ten special status wildlife species, i n c l u d i n g , f o r exa m p l e, the California red-legged frog, golden eagle, Cooper’s hawk, California foothill yellow-legged frog, Alameda whipsnake, and San Francisco Dusky-footed Wood Rat. The project builds upon on a multi-year community land use planning process a n d s t ro n g p a r t n e rs h i p s including Civicorps, a certified local conservation corps, as well as San Francisco Estuary Institute. The project is anticipated to be constructed over two construction seasons, in 2019 and 2020. EBRPD staff will monitor and maintain the habitat once restoration is completed.
Congratulations to San Ramon’s Diablo Motors Greg Meier and Diablo Motors Auto Sales in San Ramon, have just been awarded the esteemed Quality Dealer of the Year Award for 2019 by the Independent Auto Dealers Association of California. IADAC is an association of over 500 quality- and ethics-conscious car dealership owners from all over California, representing over 12,000 licensed car dealerships in the State of California. Every year, the Association elects a car dealer that best exemplifies the Mission of IADAC, “For Dedication to the Ideals of Free Enterprise, Fellowship with
Association Members, and Service to the Community”. Diablo Motors celebrates 25 years in business this year, and attributes their success to honesty and integrity first, with a focus on top quality pre-owned current model cars, trucks, and SUV’s at below market prices. Diablo Motors also has complete service and detail departments on site, so they can keep quality control a priority. Diablo Motors is A+ Certified by the Better Business Bureau, has over 100 5-Star Yelp reviews, and is still the only Diamond Certified car dealer in California, and has been for 14 years now. The entire Diablo Motors t e a m a p p re c i a t e s t h e 2 5 years of repeat business and local community support that have contributed to the achievement of this award, and hopes that everyone will continue to entrust their vehicle needs to Diablo Motors for years to come.
For more nformation contact Diablo Motors at (925) 8308747, or email Greg at greg@ diablomotors.com, or drop by their beautiful showroom at 2067 San Ramon Valley Boulevard in San Ramon.
Advertise in The Valley Sentinel! For information, please contact Denise Rousset at 925-820-6047 or email info@valleysentinel.com. Visit us at ValleySentinel.com
November is
” “America Recycles nth!
Contra Costa Recycles
Mo
How can you become an even better recycler? Keep recyclables clean and contaminant-free, and seek out items made from recycled-content materials.
America Recycles Day is Nov. 15 During the month of November, make a recycling pledge, and vote for a local community project to receive a $1,500 waste reduction grant!
www.ContraCostaRecycles .com Submit your pledge and vote November 1–November 30 for the chance to win zero-waste prizes!
Holiday Happenings page 8
THE VALLEY SENTINEL
Get Ready to Get Your Skate On!
The Annual Walnut Creek On Ice Returns T h e Wa l n u t C r e e k Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau and Walnut Creek Downtown will kick off the winter season on Friday, November 8 when ice skating starts at the 15th annual Walnut Creek on Ice in the heart of downtown at Civic Park. The partially enclosed ice rink welcomes skaters of all ages and abilities to tie on a pair of ice skates and skate daily through January 20, 2020. The November 9, 11a.m.-1p.m., Children’s
Winter Festival promises a fun way for families to begin the ice skating season. This popular event includes live skate performances, pizza, hot chocolate, face painting, free giveaways, and more. Free admission and skates for the first 250 guests; $5 admission until 5 p.m., and then regular price of $15 per person. Includes skate rentals. For all the cool details, visit walnutcreekonice.com or call 925-935-7669
November 2019
valleysentinel.com
Annual Fall Food Drive to be Held by Kiwanis on November 23rd The Kiwanis Club of The San Ramon Valley will be Collecting about 7,500 Lbs. of Food for Those in Need Kiwanis is a global in Our Community be accepting tax-deductible organization of volunteers The Kiwanis Club of San Ramon Valley are teaming team up again with NBC Bay Area and Safeway Grocery Stores for the club’s annual Fall Food Drive, to be held on Saturday, November 23rd. With help from over 30 volunteers, including Key Club high schoolers, members of the National Charity League, Boys Team Charitie and friends/ family, the Kiwanis Club will be collecting approximately 850 bags of groceries, totalling an estimated 7,500 lbs. of food. We will be outside Safeway stores in Alamo, Blackhawk, Dougherty Valley and San Ramon from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, November 23rd, reminding shoppers about the food drive and the asking them to purchase a $10 bag of food inside the store. We will also
cash donations. The food and funds will be delivered to the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano, located in Concord. Our goal is to help fill all local food banks so that no child or family will go hungry this holiday season. Additionally, the San R a m o n Va l l e y K i w a n i s Foundation is donating $3,500 directly to the Food Bank to purchase even more groceries. “Every year we collect about 7,500 lbs. of food during our food drive. It’s great to see such community support for the work of the Food Bank.” says Nancy Bray, Chair of the Kiwanis 2018 Food Drive. ”Our one day contribution accounts for about 10 percent of all food distributed between Thanksgiving and New Years by the Food Bank of Contra Costa County and Solano.”
dedicated to changing the world one child and one community at a time. Founded in 1915 in Detroit and with headquarters now in Indianapolis, 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 family members in 96 countries make their mark by responding to the needs of their communities and pooling their resources to address worldwide issues. Kiwanis Club Of San Ramon Valley meets every Thursday from noon to 1.30 at the Black Bear Diner in Danville that includes networking, lunch and a guest speaker. Additional information may be obtained on their website: www.srvkiwanis.org.
Santa’s Busiest Night at the Museum of the San Ramon Valley and Father Christmas! There’s
The tradition continues with Christmas Memories at the Museum of the San Ramon Valley. This year we celebrate Santa’s Busiest Night. The museum will allow you to visit Santa’s North Pole Village as he gets ready for his busiest night, delivering toys to good boys and girls around the world. Watch the Polar Express train travel on its magical journey though a forest of trees. Santa and his sled will be there loaded with toys.
Be quiet as you tiptoe past sleeping children with sugar plums dancing through their heads. View photos of iconic Christmas trees from around the world. A display of toys from the Toy Hall of Fame will also be there for your enjoyment. Young and old alike can enjoy visiting the playhouse stocked with a variety of toys to play with. The playhouse is also a great photo opportunity. Don’t miss the return of the merry-go-round, Ferris wheel,
so much to see and enjoy. The exhibit opens on November 23 and will close on January 4. On Friday, November 29th after the Christmas tree lighting in Danville Santa will be making a special stop at the Museum. Come by and visit! The Museum of the San Ramon Valley is located at 205 Railroad Ave. in Danville. Hours are Tuesday-Friday 1-4, Saturday 10-1,Sunday 12-3. Contact the museum at museumsrv.org or call 925-837-3750.
Time To Clean Your Closets before the Holidays! The San Ramon Valley Rotary is collecting for the homeless and the impoverished of the Bay Area, coats, sweaters and blankets for men, women, and children. Also needed are infants’ items in clean and good condition. Collections begin on Monday November 4th 2019 through Monday January 6th 2020 at various Drop-off spots listed at www.sanramonvalleyrotary. com, or for more information call Bernie at (925) 352-2155. T h e O n e Wa r m C o a t Project was started in
1 9 9 5 by t h e S a n Ra m o n Valley Rotary Club Charter President Bill Gregory. It was a modest start in his garage with only 55 coats and sweaters collected. Now in its 24th season they actually collected over 12,000 items in 2018. Bishop Ranch has been graciously housing the drive for the last 17 years, in a critical space to sort and distribute the many items of clothing. All of the items are given directly to local charities
a n d s o m e p ro g ra m s l i ke the annual “Christmas for E ve r yo n e ” , P i t t s b u rg S t Vincent de Paul/Loaves & Fishes of Contra Costa, or the ECAP community outreach in Emeryville which has always had a dire need of clothing & food items. Everything goes directly to the people in need, with no intermediary. Those who have no items can make a cash donation to help with program expenses. The Club is very thankful for all of the community support!
Holiday Happenings valleysentinel.com
November 2019
Walking off Holiday Calories By Beverly Lane, President, East Bay Regional Park District Board of Directors
Miller Road and Redwood Road in Oakland. Heavy rain cancels. For information on either of Morgan’s hikes, call 510-5443187. Of course you can also explore the regional parks on your own. One easy way is to walk the Iron Horse Trail, The holiday season brings which traverses the Tri-Valley lots of good cheer, and lots all the way from Concord to of caloric intake as well. But Pleasanton. You can make your the East Bay Regional Park walk as long or short as desired. District can help. There’s a full The trail is paved and schedule of both pre- and postmulti-use, designed for hikers, Thanksgiving hikes and other bicyclists and equestrians. It’s activities so you can stay in accessible from most major city shape and good health. streets. Dogs on leash, please. For starters, there’s a birdTo download a map, visit the watching walk led by naturalist Park District website at www. Anthony Fisher from 9 a.m. ebparks.org. to noon on Monday, Nov. 18 Another pleasant and scenic at Briones Regional Park near walk is the Old Stage Road Orinda. All levels of birding skill Trail at Castle Rock and Diablo are welcome. Meet Anthony Foothills regional parklands. at the park’s Bear Creek Just drive to the end staging area, which is on of Castle Rock Road Bear Creek Road about in Walnut Creek, past five miles north of the Northgate High School. intersection with Camino Walk through Castle Rock Pablo/San Pablo Dam Regional Recreation Area Road. For information, call and on up the trail. It 510-544-2233. leads along a creek past For a mostly flat, easy the Castle Rock formation and very pretty walk, join and on into Mt. Diablo naturalist Kevin Dixon State Park. on the George Miller Jr. Las Trampas Regional Regional Trail overlooking Wilderness offers lots of Carquinez Strait. It’s from View towards Martinez and Mt. Diablo from the 9:30 a.m. to noon on George Miller Trail at Carquinez Regional Shoreline: hiking possibilities, too. For a walk with nice fall Sunday, Nov. 17, and it’s colors, thanks to stands wheelchair accessible. Meet on Friday, Nov. 29, again at Kevin at the Port Costa Staging Redwood Regional Park with of big-leaf maple, walk through Area about two miles east of Morgan. This time it’s a hilly, the woods alongside a creek, town. To get there, take McEwen five-mile challenge, down into starting at the trailhead at the Road north from Highway the canyon and back up again. west end of Hemme Avenue in 4 toward Port Costa. At the The hike is part of the Healthy Alamo. Maps and descriptions of all bottom of the hill, turn right on Parks/Healthy People program Carquinez Scenic Drive. Call 510- sponsored by the Park District the regional parks are available to encourage regular use and at the website mentioned above. 544-2750 for information. But however you and your The Wednesday Walkers enjoyment of the regional parks family spend the holiday, here’s are an informal group of hikers and other public open space. Meet Morgan at the Trudeau wishing everyone a very happy who enjoy exercise and natural history; everyone is welcome. Training Center at 11500 Skyline Thanksgiving. There’s a Wednesday Walk Boulevard between Joaquin starting at 9:30 a.m. on Nov. 20 at Lake Chabot near Castro Valley, led by naturalist Christina Garcia. This one is a moderately strenuous four-mile trek on the park’s Eastshore Trail and Cameron Loop. For information, call 510-544-3282. And a search for denizens of the winter forest is the theme of a walk from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Nov. 23 at Redwood Regional Park in Oakland with naturalist Morgan Guenther. You might see salamanders, ladybugs, rainbow trout and other woodland creatures. Meet Morgan at the park’s Canyon Meadows staging area, which is at the end of the road that leads into the park from Redwood Road. The Thanksgiving Grand Finale is a “Burn the Turkey Hike” from 9 a.m. to noon
More Free EBRPD Programs Itsy bitsy spiders are the theme of a program from noon to 1 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 10 at Tilden Nature Area near Berkeley with naturalist Jenna Collins. Bring a magnifying glass and meet at the Environmental Education Center for a walk in search of hidden arachnids. Or if hot apple cider is more to your taste, join Jenna at the center from 3 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 10 to see how fresh apples are pressed to make the drink.
The center is at the north end of Tilden’s Central Park Drive. Call 510-544-2233. To honor veterans, the Park District offers all active and retired military personnel free day-use parking and park entry on Veterans Day, Nov. 11, including Ardenwood Historic Farm in Fremont. And there’s a Veterans Day open house from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 11 at Crab Cove Visitor Center in Alameda. Crab Cove was once a military facility.
The agenda includes movies in the Old Wharf Classroom from 10am to noon; a clinic on flag folding, knot tying, crafts, and a memorial wreath from noon to 4pm and a low tide walk from 3:30 to 4:30pm. Crab Cove Visitor Center is at 1252 McKay Ave. off Alameda’s Central Avenue. Call 510-544-3187. There are lots of other programs in the works. For a full listing, visit the park district website. And remember, Fridays are free in the regional parks through the end of the year, in celebration of the district’s 85th anniversary.
THE VALLEY SENTINEL
page 9
Art & Vintage
Holiday Boutique One-of-a-kind gifts and treasures
Saturday, November 23 12 - 5pm 2214 Lisa Lane, Pleasant Hill Original Art created by Sue Ferro & Vintage Jewelry curated by Laurie Prindle
www.etsy.com/shop/vintagejewelryetal
Tree Lighting Ceremonies Danville Lighting of the Old Oak Tree Friday, November 29 5:15 - 8:30pm Lighting of the Old Oak Tree is a tradition with strong roots in the Town of Danville. The community gathers after Thanksgiving to honor the Old Oak. Diablo Road Old Oak Tree
City Center Bishop Ranch Tree Lighting Celebration - Friday, November 22, 5:30 - 7pm Gather family and friends, come listen to live music and watch the ceremonial lighting of our spectacular tree. The guest of honor, of course, is Santa Claus! Be sure to bring your camera and strike a pose with jolly old St. Nick. There will be a variety of refreshments and activities for the kids. Bring your family and friends, your cozy attire, and help spread the holiday spirit! City Center Bishop Ranch 6000 Bollinger Canyon Rd. San Ramon
Alamo Community Tree Lighting Sunday, December 8 4:30 - 6:30 pm The Alamo Rotary hosts this traditional holiday event, including caroling, music, treats, beverages, and photos with Santa. Take part in the event’s food drive benefiting the
Contra Costa Food Bank by donating canned or boxed non-perishable food items. O a k Tr e e P l a z a a n d Andrew H. Young Park at the corner of Danville Blvd. and Jackson Way in Alamo.
H o s p i c e Tre e o f Lights ceremonies Hospice Tree of Lights ceremonies offer members of the community a way to honor the lives of their friends and loved ones. A few of this year’s ceremonies a r e l i s t e d b e l o w. Fo r information about events in other locations, please visit www.HospiceEastBay.org Danville Friday, Nov. 22, 5:30pm Town Meeting Hall 201 Front St. Alamo Wednesday, Nov. 13, 5pm Alamo Women’s Club 1401 Danville Blvd., Alamo Walnut Creek Wednesday, Dec. 4, 6pm John Muir Med Center Main Entrance 1601 Ygnacio Valley Rd. Blackhawk Tree Friday, Dec. 6, 5pm Blackhawk Rd. at Blackhawk Drive Hospice East Bay provides compassionate end-of-life care to terminally ill patients, while offering emotional, spiritual, and grief support for the entire family. For more information visit www. hospiceeastbay.org
Senior Living page 10
valleysentinel.com
November 2019
Improved online tool helps you choose Medicare plans By Greg Dill
Just a reminder that Medicare’s annual Open Enrollment Period has begun and it runs through Dec. 7, 2019. This is the time of year when you can change how you get your Medicare coverage, switch health and drug plans, and add or drop Medicare prescription drug coverage. So it’s important that you review your current coverage. Check your current enrollment at Medicare. gov/find-a-plan/enrollment/ check-enrollment.aspx. If you’re happy with your current Medicare coverage, you don’t need to do a thing during Open Enrollment. But people often find they can save money or find a plan that better meets their health needs by shopping around. To help you shop for 2020 Medicare health and drug plans, we’ve just introduced an improved version of our popular M e d i c a r e P l a n F i n d e r, a t M e d i c a re. g ov / p l a n compare/#/?year=2020. The redesigned Medicare Plan Finder makes it easier than ever to compare coverage options, shop for plans, and feel confident in your choice. This tool now works on your smart phone, tablet, and desktop computer.
With Medicare Plan Finder you can: • Compare up to three health or drug plans sideby-side; • Get plan costs and benefits, including which Medicare Advantage plans offer extra benefits; • Build a personal drug list and find a Medicare prescription drug plan (Part D) that best meets your needs. We’ll start by suggesting prescriptions that you filled within the last 12 months. And when you search for a brand name drug, we’ll show it along with any lower-cost generic alternatives. If you’re new to Medicare, you’ll need to decide upfront how you get your Medicare coverage. Medicare Plan Finder can help with this, too. By selecting “Learn more about Medicare options before I see plans,” you can compare the different ways yo u c a n M e d i c a re coverage -- through Original Medicare (with or without extra coverage) or a Medicare Advantage plan. For a more personalized experience, you can also create your own Medicare account at MyMedicare.gov. Among other things, this account allows you to print a new Medicare card if you lose yours. A b o u t 10 , 0 0 0 p e o p l e enroll in Medicare each day, and we’re improving our online tools to meet the needs of a growing number of tech-savvy beneficiaries. But you don’t need a computer
The Town of Danville is recruiting for 2 volunteer positions on the Heritage Resource Commission (one position must be filled by an architect) Four-year terms begin January 1, 2020 Applications are due Thursday, November 21, 2019 at 4 p.m. and are available on the Town website at
www.danville.ca.gov. For more information, contact City Clerk Marie Sunseri at (925)314-3401 or msunseri@danville.ca.gov.
to get information on your Medicare benefits. If you have any questions, you can always c a l l M e d i c a re ’s t o l l - f re e number, 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). Customer service representatives are available 24/7. There’s also the “Medicare & You” handbook, mailed to every Medicare household in the country each fall. The handbook is available online at https:// www.medicare.gov/sites/ default/files/2019-09/10050medicare-and-you.pdf. And let me also recommend the excellent, free counseling you can get from your State Health Insurance Assistance Program, or SHIP. SHIP is an independent, nonprofit organization that provides personalized
counseling to people with Medicare. You can make an appointment to speak with a SHIP counselor in-person or over the phone. SHIP counselors are welltrained volunteers who often are enrolled in Medicare themselves, so they know the ropes. They can help you sort through different health and drug plans and help find one that’s right for you. They’re not trying to sell you any particular product. To contact your local SHIP office, go to Shiptacenter.org. (In California, the program is called the Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program, or HICAP.) If you enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan this fall but you’re not satisfied with it, you can switch plans or return to Original Medicare between Jan.1 and March 31,
2020. If you return to Original Medicare, you can also buy a Medicare prescription drug plan (Part D) during this period. Having trouble paying for your prescription drug plan (Part D)? You may be eligible for the Extra Help program, which helps cover your premiums, deductibles, and co-pays. Medicare beneficiaries typically save $4,900 annually with Extra Help. For more information, go to SSA.gov/prescriptionhelp. Greg Dill is Medicare’s regional administrator for Arizona, California, Nevada, Hawaii, and the Pacific Territories. You can always get answers to your Medicare questions by calling 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-6334227).
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A Retirement “Playcheck” By Robert Cucchiaro
No that’s not a typo, it says play check instead of paycheck on purpose. The conventional wisdom around retirement planning is that once retired, you will spend 80% of what you are currently spending. I am not totally sure where this number came from but it can do a fair amount of harm in my opinion by giving you a false sense that you are on track for a comfortable retirement when in fact you may not be. Let me explain – what day of the week do you spend the most money? For most working people the answer is Saturday because that’s the day they play golf, eat lunch or dinner at a restaurant, see a movie, go shopping, go to Home Depot, etc. Well in retirement, every day is Saturday! As author Tom Hegna puts it in his book Pay Checks and Play Checks, “Things used to be so simple. People worked 30 or 40 years – many times with the same company – and got a very comfortable pension to last them through their retirement. Because of shorter life expectancies for
many, retirement was a short period of time prior to death. Fast forward to today – people are living longer, pensions are a faded memory of days gone by, the stock market is more volatile, Social Security and Medicare are on shaky ground, and retirement has become a scary word.” He goes on to say “the greatest risk for pension fund managers is that they will not have enough money to fund future retirement benefit claims. You need to be similarly concerned about underfunding because you are responsible for managing your own retirement plan.” Along these same lines, 10 years into a bull market, and a market where large US stocks have been the place to be, we are seeing more and more nearretirees who plan to manage their own money in retirement, armed with the belief that the next 20 years will look like the last 10 years. While our firm believes strongly in the rationale for using index funds vs. trying to beat the market, we also think that having a professional guide you and your portfolio throughout your retirement makes a lot of sense. The idea behind a retirement “playcheck” is this - imagine you are in your 1st
10 years of retirement (what we call the go-go years) and you plan to spend $3,000 per month on just the fun stuff – golf, wineries, eating out, taking the kids to the movies, quick trips to Tahoe, etc. Why not set aside a bucket of money just for this purpose and have a “playcheck” deposited into your checking account every month? This way you can spend guilt free without worrying that you are jeopardizing your financial security. There are several ways to set this up and this is one of the benefits of working with a professional financial planner. If you would like us to assess your retirement game plan and discuss ideas like how to create pay checks and play checks, 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
valleysentinel.com
November 2019
THE VALLEY SENTINEL
Hope 100 Golf Marathon Raises $84,000
been supporting patients, families, and healthcare professionals in the Tri-Valley and surrounding communities since 1980. We continue to expand our services, and now also offer home health services, dementia support, and an advanced illness care program to meet the growing needs of our community.
Passionate golfers united at Castlewood Country Club for a great local cause The Fifth Annual Hope 100 Golf Marathon, a charity golf tournament held on September 30 at Castlewood Country Club in Pleasanton, raised $84,000 for patient care and community services.
Twenty-four dedicated golfers hit the Valley Course at dawn to play 100 holes in just shy of 10 hours. Each player committed to raising at least $2,500 by soliciting support of friends and family.
At $4,320, Thad Buurkarl was this year’s top fundrasier. A special tribute was made in honor of the late Stephen G. Thompson, who played in the inaugural tournament. The closest-to-the-pin challenge at Hole 14, sponsored by Jerry Thompson & Sons Painting in Stephen’s memory, yielded $10,000 for Hope. Proceeds benefit Hope’s community education and grief support programs. Thank you to our sponsors and volunteers for making this important event successful! 2019 major sponsors: Jerry Thompson & Sons Painting, Graham-Hitch Mortuary, Colliers International, Bayside Interiors, Smith Currie
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& Hancock LLP, Premier Pharmaceutical Services, Waddell & Reed Financial Advisors, and A&M Printing. Hope Hospice and Home Health is a community-led, non-profit organization. As a hospice provider, we’ve
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Hope Hospice Presents Free Grief Workshop for Anyone Coping With a Loss This Holiday Season For people who have experienced the death of a loved one, the winter holiday season can be painful. Hope Hospice offers a free workshop to present specific ideas and healthy coping strategies to help those who are experiencing grief during the winter holiday season. The workshop is offered at no cost to anyone in the community. The workshop will: • Provide ways to manage grief at family gatherings and social events.
• Help participants explore fear, anxiety, or strong emotions connected to the holiday season and the loss they may be feeling • Explore exit strategies for unexpected grief bursts • Provide practical ideas to help make holiday preparations less overwhelming • Invite the exchange of ideas to memorialize lost loved ones at holiday gatherings • Present self-care techniques to help make the holidays more tolerable, even enjoyable
Hope’s Handling the Holidays workshop will be offered twice (program is the same). Monday, November 4; 6–7:30 p.m. Monday, December 9; 4:30–6 p.m. There is no cost to attend, but registration is required and seating is limited. Please call to register: (925) 829-8770. These workshops will take place at the Hope Hospice office located at 6377 Clark Avenue, Suite 295, Dublin 94568.
New Evening Schedule for Dementia Classes
Hope Hospice doubles class schedule to meet growing need To meet a growing need of family caregivers in the TriValley, Hope Hospice has added evening options for its Living With Dementia classes. The 4-part series is offered yearround on a repeating schedule, and now family members can choose from afternoon or evening slots to accommodate their schedules.
People currently engaged as a caregiver to a loved one with dementia can register for one or all of the classes, regardless of whether their loved one is a Hope Hospice patient. Classes take place at Hope’s office, 6377 Clark Avenue in Dublin, CA. Free on-site parking.
These classes are offered at no cost, although donations to Hope Hospice are gratefully received and allow the agency to continue to offer the program to others. View the schedule and registration details at http://bit. ly/dementiahope, or call (925) 829-8770.
HORNET from page 1
who greeted the astronauts as they exited the bobbing spacecraft in the sea, Bruce Johnson, the co-pilot of the astronaut recovery helicopter and Bill Carpentier, the NASA flight surgeon who spent two weeks with the astronauts in quarantine on the USS Hornet and at Johnson Space Center. After the lecture all were available to autograph author Bob Fish’s book, Hornet Plus Three. Fish said the four felt very confident going into this prestigious environment because they had all been part of the Splashdown 50 commemoration at the USS
Hornet Museum just 3 months ago. And, he said, they all share a passion for passing “lessons learned” along to the future generations who will go back to the Moon in the next few years. The Hornet Apollo 11 webcast should be on the NASM website very soon for those San Ramon Valley residents who would like to see it. Search the web for “NASM GE Aviation lecture series.” Mission Accomplished! Bob Fish is a Trustee at the USS Hornet Museum and Author of the book Hornet Plus Three.
their first World Series game, there was a great turnout of 350 people for the GE Aviation Series lecture entitled the USS Hornet Recovery of Apollo 11. Following a formal dinner with NASM dignitaries, Local Bob Fish, Trustee of the USS Hornet Museum, moderated an overview of the recovery of the epic Apollo 11 lunar landing flight by the USS Hornet in 1969, nuanced with interesting personal insight injected along the way by eyewitness guests. The three panelists were Clancy Hatleberg, the UDT swimmer
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Family Caregiver Resources
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ope Hospice is pleased to offer a series of classes designed to educate, support, and provide resources to family members engaged in caring for elderly or chronically ill loved ones. Our Family Caregiver Education Series takes place at our office in Dublin. There is no cost to attend. Space is limited; please register for each class that you will attend. Find registration information and class descriptions at HopeHospice.com /family, or call (925) 829-8770.
2020 Class Schedule January 11 Living with Dementia: Dementia Basics February 8 Making Decisions About Caregiving March 21 Living with Dementia: Enhancing WellBeing and Person-Centered Care April 18 Navigating the Healthcare Environment May 16 Exploring Legal and Financial Issues June 13 Living with Dementia: Developing Daily Care Plans July 11 Essential Skills for the Family Caregiver August 15 Understanding Advanced Illness September 12 Living with Dementia: Self-Care and Preventing Caregiver Burnout October 10 Facing End-of-Life Issues and Handling Grief and Loss November 14 Medicare: An Overview and Update December 12 Healthful Meal Planning for the Elderly and Chronically Ill
COMMUNITY CALENDAR November • November • November • November • November • November • November • November • For additional Community Events visit: www.ValleySentinel.com Please email information about your events to info@valleysentinel.com COMMUNITY EVENTS November 8 through January 20, 2020 15th Annual Walnut Creek On Ice The Walnut Creek Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau and Walnut Creek Downtown will kick off the winter season Friday, November 8 when ice skating starts at the 15th annual Walnut Creek on Ice in the heart of downtown at Civic Park. The ice rink welcomes skaters of all ages and abilities to skate daily through January 20, 2020. For all the cool details, visit walnutcreekonice. com or call 925-935-7669 November 9 Children’s Winter Festival 11am-1pm. Children, families, and the young-at-heart can kick off the ice skating season with the Children’s Winter Festival. Festivities will include a star performance by Sochi Olympian Polina Edmunds. Rocco’s pizza, hot chocolate, and more. Free admission and skates for the first 250 guests; $5 admission until 5 p.m., and then regular price of $15 per person. Includes skate rentals. Walnut Creek’s Civic Park. November 15 through January 5, 2020 Kristi Yamaguchi Holiday Ice Skating Rink 5pm. Kickoff on November 15. The first and only outdoor ice rink in the Tri-Valley will officially celebrate its grand opening on Nov. 15 at 5 p.m. The 4,100-square-foot ice rink is named after the beloved 1992 Olympic gold medal winner in women’s figure skating and East Bay native, Kristi Yamaguchi, who will kick off the grand opening with a few words. November 17 Authors at the Museum of the San Ramon Valley Noon-3pm. The Museum of the San Ramon Valley is proud to be hosting 4 excellent and very knowledgeable authors: Stephen Joseph, Mount Diablo: A Story of Place and Inspiration, and Mount Diablo: The Extraordinary Life and Landscapes of a California Treasure; Steve Minniear, Dublin California: A Brief History; James Moore, The Life of Robert Noble Burgess; and Museum Curator, Beverly Lane, San Ramon Chronicles and Vintage Danville. This free event will be at the Museum of the San Ramon Valley, 205 Railroad Ave Danville CA. For more info, visit museumsrv.org or call 925-837-3750. November 17 Pasta Dinner at San Damiano Retreat 4:30pm. Cost is $20 for adults, and $10 for kids aged 12 and under. San damiano Retreat is located at 710 Highland Drive in Danville. For more information visit www.sandamiano.org, or call (925) 837-9141 ONGOING 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 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. For m ore information or 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: 925-973-3284 or visit www.sanramon.ca.gov. Saturday without Reservations at the Tao House Every Saturday 10am, 12pm, and 2pm. Come explore this National Historic Site in Danville. Catch the shuttle at the bus stop in front of the Museum of the San Ramon Valley, 205 Railroad Ave. www.EugeneOneill.org SENIORS Danville Seniors Unless otherwise noted, the following activities are held at the Danville Senior Center, Veterans Memorial Building, 115 E. Prospect, Danville. For more information call 925-314-3490 or visit www.ci.danville.ca.us/Recreation/Seniors. Sneaker Trips: The Town of Danville’s Senior Sneakers program is a great way for you to make new friends and get out and around the greater Bay Area. There’s always something new to see and learn. The Danville Area Senior Hikes (DASH) is open to all adults and meets on the second and fourth Wednesday of every month. The group starts at 8:45am at Osage Park, 816 Brookside Drive, Danville and returns about 1pm. 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. We are doing so by helping businesses get online and improve their online presence. 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) 8374400 or email: ceo@danvilleareachamber.com November 8 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. After Hours Business Mixer 5:30-7pm. Come join the Danville Area Chamber of commerce for a wonderful business mixer where you can network with other businesses, meet the hosts and enjoy refreshments with this lively group. Great raffle prizes to be won! This mixer will take place at Hospice of the East Bay located at 444 Diablo Rd., Danville. $5 members, Guests $10. Bring plenty of business cards! For more information call 925- 837-4400. November 14 Walnut Creek Chamber BASH & Holiday Celebration 6-7:30pm 5:30-7 pm. Our November BASH & Holiday Celebration will be hosted by MassMutual Financial Group with catering from Flemings Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar! David N. Sachs Photography & Film will be onsite providing complimentary headshots for Chamber members (one free image per person). Our hosts have a wonderful BASH planned, so we hope to see you there! MassMutual Financial Group - Main Lobby 1st Floor 3003 Oak Rd., Walnut Creek, 94597. For more information call Linda Vesneski, Membership Sales Director 925-934-2007 November 15 First Steps To Successful Start-Ups 9:30am-12:30pm. Learn about the attributes of a successful entrepreneur, invaluable sources of information for the nuts and bolts of starting your business including; Licenses and permits, business planning process, key information sources for developing your business plan, how to take advantage of the Small Business Development Center’s free and low cost services for your new business, and more! Join us at Contra Costa SBDC, 300 Ellinwood Way, Bodega Room, Pleasant Hill. Call Oscar Dominguez at 925-671-4570 for more information. November 16 Legal Structure Webinar 7- 8:00pm. Protect Your Business Protect Your Future Are you worried about lawsuits and broken business promises? Do you have questions for an attorney, but don’t know where to start? Are you primed for growth or are you still playing small? In this free webinar and we’ll talk about how to protect yourself and your business from future lawsuits so you can focus on growing an enterprise you love. Here’s what you’ll learn: The Importance of Legal Business Structures. Everybody is talking about corporations and LLCs, but why are they so important? We’ll cover entity basics and how they help protect business owners from business lawsuits and liabilities. Also,learn the differences between LLCs and corporations. To register call Oscar Dominguez (925) 671-4570 November 21 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 Sinrise Villa San Ramon, located at 9199 Fircrest Lane in San Ramon. 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.
Please email your calendar events to the Sentinel at Info@valleysentinel.com by 5pm on the 20th of the month preceding publication month. Inclusion in the calendar pages is at the sole discretion of Sentinel Newspapers, Inc.
valleysentinel.com
November 2019
THE VALLEY SENTINEL
page 13
Community Calendar continued from page 12 CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS November 9 California Writers Club: “It Takes a Village: Marketing by Building Community” 11am sign in, luncheon 12-12:45 pm. Sign-in starts at 11:00 am, Luncheon 12-12:45 pm. Speaker 1-2:00 pm. Registration is $25 for CWC members, $30 for guests. To reserve, go to the CWC Mt. Diablo website at : https:// cwcmtdiablo.org/current-cwc-mtdiablo-meeting Online, or to pay by cash or check, select “Pay at Door.” To use credit card or PayPal, select “Pay with PayPal.” Website, http:// cwcmtdiablowriters.org. 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 – all Veterans welcome… stop for a few minutes - or stay for hours! Please, and it’s free!
Heather Farm Camellia Room. The November topic will be “The Future of our Open Space” presented by Executive Director Ted Clement of Save Mt. Diablo. The center is 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 Catherine Accardi at email caacat@ comcast.net 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.
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
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
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 Marsha at (925) 351-8188 for more Visit daw-ca.aauw.net for meeting dates.
Tuesdays: Senior Self-Help Clinic It is on the first Tuesday of every month at the Spinetta Family Law Center in Martinez on the first floor, room 144B, from 9-11AM. Drop-in clinic available to Contra Costa Seniors age 60 and older who do not have an attorney and who represent themselves in court.. For info email katie.kelly@ccsls.org. Contra Costa Senior Legal Services.
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.
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) 8371882
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.
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
Hope Hospice Grief Support Groups–Ongoing Hope Hospice provides support to help you understand and manage grief in a way that is healthy and appropriate. Our Grief Support Center is available to all community members at minimal or no cost. Information: visit www.HopeHospice.com or call 925-829-8770.
Danville/Sycamore Valley Rotary 7am. Meets every Tuesday morning. Crow Canyon Country Club, Danville. Information: dsvrotary.com.
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
San Ramon Valley Geneological Society 10am. Meets every third Tuesday at the LDS Church, 2949 Stone Valley Road, Alamo. http://srvgensoc.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
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.
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 Diablo Dance Club 7-10pm Meets the last Wednesday of every month. Live music, refreshments. Members $10, Guests $15. All welcome. 111 Wiget Lane, Walnut Creek. Come join us! 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 Mount Diablo Rose Society Meets the 2nd Wednesday of the month from September through June at 7:30 pm in the Community Room of the Dublin Public Library at 200 Civic Plaza, Dublin 94568. For more info, visit our website: https://www. mtdiablorosesociety.org or email secretary@mtdiablorosesociety.org.
Blue Star Moms 7-9pm. Meets the second Wednesday of every month to participate in service activities supporting sons/daughters serving in the military. Danville Veterans Memorial Building, 400 Hartz Ave. Information: bluestarmoms.org. Diablo Valley Quilters 7-9pm. Meets the third Wednesday of every month. No charge for guests. Danville Congregational Church, 989 San Ramon Valley Blvd., Danville. Information: diablovalleyquilters.com. 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.
Walnut Creek Toastmasters 7-8:15pm. Meets every Wednesday. 1660 Oak Park Blvd., Pleasant Hill. Information: walnutcreek.freetoasthost.net
Tri-Valley Fly Fishers (TVFF) Visitors are welcome to join us for this fun-filled evening. Monthly meetings feature guest speakers who share their knowledge of the sport. Meetings are held at 7:00 PM on the first Thursday of every month, September through June at the Livermore-Pleasanton Rod and Gun Club, 4000 Dagnino Road, Livermore, CA 94551
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.
The Danville Women’s Club 11am. Please join the Danville Women’s Club at 242 W. Linda Mesa Ave., Danville, for our monthly luncheon. Reservations required. Contact 925-837-1165 to make your reservation. Lunch is free for first-timers, $8 for others. You’re welcome to stay for our meeting to learn more about us.
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
San Ramon Valley Newcomers 11:30am-2pm. Meets the third Thursday of every month with a featured guest
Alamo Rotary The Rotary Club of Alamo meets at 12:15 p.m. Every Wednesday at Round Hill Country Club, 3169 Round Hill Road, Alamo. Our correct e-mail address is: 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.
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 Clutterers Anonymous 7-8pm. Meets the 2nd and 4th Thursday of every month. St. Luke’s Lutheran Church Room 3, 2491 San Miguel Drive, W alnut Creek. Information: 925736-8627. Diablo Valley Lions Club 7:30pm. Meets the 1st, 3rd, and 4th Thursday of every month. 1400 Montego Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: diablovalleyca.lionwap.org. Fridays: 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, starting 9/13. We are real women moving through real transitions in life. Registration is open year round and there’s always a welcoming seat. Community Presbyterian Church: 222 W. El Pintado Rd., Danville, Conference Room. Contact Diane at dianewood70@ gmail.com, or Liz at elizabeth1728@ yahoo.com. Saturdays: Diablo Region of the Porsche Club of America 7:30-9am. Meets every Saturday. Buttercup Bar and Grill, 660 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek. Information: diablo-pca.org. Parkinson’s Disease Support Group 9am-12pm. Meets every 3rd Saturday. Join us to share, laugh, and learn from each other. Grace Presbyterian Church, 2100 Tice Valley Blvd., Walnut Creek. Contact Gregg Riehl at 925-254-8349 or jgriehl@gmail.com. Free. All are welcome. Information: Howard Zalkin at 939-4210 or Ronnie Wanetick at 933-6357.
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
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P.O Box 130 Danville, CA 94526 www.valleysentinel.com
page 14
THE VALLEY SENTINEL
AUTO March 2009 November 2019
2019 Jaguar F-Pace SVR By David and Judy Colman
Every once in a great while, a test vehicle comes along that proves so distinguished in both looks and performance that it occasions a complete recalibration of what is possible. Jaguar’s 2019 F-Pace SVR is just such an agent of change. From the moment we snuggled into the aggressively contoured racing seats and lit the ignition on the 550hp V8, this Jag made it very apparent we were driving something extra special. As a group, SUVs do not impress with their driving prowess. Most look similarly stodgy, and confirm their awkward appearance by performing like elephants on a high wire. Not so the F-Pace SVR. This Jag will take on any back road, paved or unpaved and cover it in record quick time. And on top of that it’s a relative bargain, with a base price of just $79,990. Our fully loaded test unit stickered at $89,900. The Driver Assist Package (Blind Spot Assist, 360 Degree Camera, Adaptive
Cruise Control with Steering Assist, High Speed Emergency Braking, Park Assist and Rear Traffic Monitor) added $3,600. Aluminum Weave Carbon Fiber Trim Finisher added eye popping interior elegance for $1,010. And a Head-Up Display tacked on an extra $450. But in the world of SUV exotics, where the SVR firmly belongs, Porsche’s Cayenne Turbo runs $146,00, Lamborghini’s Urus $255,000 and Bentley’s Bentayga Speed $301,00. That makes the SVR Jag as much of a bargain today as the $5,500 Jag XKE was back in 1965. We’ve previously driven the Jaguar I-Pace, an electric powered version of the same chassis. We found the I-Pace to be extremely quick and well suspended, but were put off by its unruly regenerative b ra ke s a n d s h o r t t rave l range between charges. The SVR eliminates these issues entirely. Our stunning Ultra Blue SVR stopped on a dime, time after time, thanks to
15.5 inch vented rotors front and rear clamped by SVR issue red calipers. Staggered width Pirelli Scorpion Zero mud and snow rated tires (265/40R22 F./295/35R22 R.) ride on $1,530 optional 22” 5 Split-Spoke “Style 5081” forged aluminum rims that measure 9 inches wide in front and 10 inches wide in back. The SVR portfolio includes an 8-speed automatic transmission fitted with lovely large aluminum paddles at the wheel so you can snap off instant up and down changes. If you leave the floor mounted stick selector in fully automatic mode, the gearbox will fire off sequential upshifts so fast you’ll think you’re piloting a Formula One car. 60 MPH comes up from a standing start in 3.7 seconds, 100MPH flashes past in 8.7 seconds, and the standing start quarter mile is gone in 12 seconds at 116MPH. While the SVR is indisputably one of the quickest SUVs in the world, it backs up the straight line bravado with instant course correction courtesy of finely weighted
steering. Turn the wheel a quarter of an inch and you’ll find the front tires moving exactly a quarter of an inch. There’s absolutely no slop in this system, and you’ll cover the full range of directional travel by moving the steering wheel just 2.5 turns from lock to lock. Full time all wheel drive insures maximum traction, an especially i m p o r t a n t c o n s i d e ra t i o n when you’re dealing with a motor generating 502lb.-ft. of torque. Another directional aid comes from the active electronic differential which micro manages slip angle and yaw by using the brakes to apply torque vectoring. In actual operation, the system performs flawlessly, with no detectable deviance from your anticipated line of travel. The all aluminum DOHC 5 liter V8 is so handsome that Jaguar doesn’t need to hide the engine’s architecture under one of those black plastic modesty shields that have become all the rage these days. No, you’re free to see the sparkle of the super-charger,
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valleysentinel.com and the complexity of the adjacent plumbing in this Jag’s engine bay because there’s no need for any cover-up here. The same expedience goes for the styling of the SVR which turns the F-Pace’s rather tame stock shell into a crouching beast worthy of the name Jaguar. There is a pronounced rake to the SVR’s body which gives the visual impression that this mega SUV is ready to feast on some prey. That prey would be pretty much anything else on the road that is slower and less athletic than an SVR F-Pace. And that would be pretty much everything else. 2019 Jaguar F-Pace SVR Engine: 5.0 Liter V8, DOHC, Supercharged H o r s e p o w e r : 550hp@6000rpm Torque: 502lb.-ft.@2500rpm Fuel Consumption: 16MPG City/21MPG Highway Price as Tested: $89,900 Hypes: Reacts Faster Than You Can Think Gripes: Don’t Have One in My Garage - Yet Star Rating: 10+ Stars out of 10.
valleysentinel.com
November 2019
THE VALLEY SENTINEL
page 15
Trinity Center: A Place of Hope for the Homeless By Candace Andersen. Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors
The holiday season is fast upon us. It is the time of year to reconnect with family and show gratitude for all the blessings in our lives. But while the holidays are a festive celebration for so many, for some, the holidays bring about much different and less joyful sentiments. Fo r m a ny i n o u r community, there is no family to embrace, no warm home to return to at day’s end. They are unsure when their next meal will come, and if they will have shelter for the night. And while this month gives us Thanksgiving, associated with decadent spreads and football, November is also Homelessness Awareness Month.
Homelessness, of course, persists year-round, however the holidays provide a great opportunity to get involved and lend a hand to the many organizations in our community working to serve those in dire need. Our County’s website, at cchealth.org/h3, offers ways to get involved in helping our local homeless population. Walnut Creek’s Trinity Center is one organization devoted to those living without much. Trinity Center is a nonresidential program that serves the homeless and working adult men and women living in poverty in Walnut Creek and Contra Costa County. In addition to food (both meal service and a food pantry), the Trinity Center also provides showers and laundry, clothing, mail and telephone access, as well as referral services, case management, job training, and support groups, and help with benefit applications. On October 7, the Trinity Center launched its Safe Parking Program at St. John Vianney C a t h o l i c C h u rc h , w h i c h allows up to ten Trinity Center
members to park their vehicles in the lot as an alternative method for safe shelter. Though the Trinity Center offers many different services, perhaps its greatest gift to those who enter in its doors is hope. The abundance of resources allows the Trinity Center to act as a “doorway” that leads to the homeless and low-income individuals finding more stability in their lives. Even in times of uncertainty, the Trinity Center doesn’t lose sight of its mission. The Trinity Center is a beacon of hope for members of our community without a home. Recently, however, the Trinity Center found itself in need of a new home of its own. Fo l l ow i n g a n a b r u p t notice to temporarily relocate, the Trinity Center moved its operations to 1300 Boulevard Way in Walnut Creek’s Saranap community, where it continues to serve patrons until its new, innovative permanent facility, located at St. Paul’s Commons on Trinity Avenue in Walnut Creek, is ready following its construction.
The temporary location provides adult day services service. Due to the distance from its previous downtown location, the Trinity Center is currently running shuttles in the morning, mid-day, and upon closing to transport individuals to and from the facility. Upon the completion of the new center, which is scheduled for late November, the temporary location in Saranap will close. The Trinity Center sees roughly 60 people walk through its doors each day, with the average number onsite at one time being 20-30, operating Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Wednesdays noon to 4 p.m., women only). The Trinity Center relies heavily on volunteers to provide its services and make its Center so impactful day-in and dayout. It currently is gearing up for its Winter Shelter, which runs from December through March – a crucial time due to the substantial drop in temperature. As such, Executive Director Donna Colombo points out that there are currently
LUNAFEST Danville Brings Community Together for a Cause By Varsha Ravi and Liann Bielicki
On September 17, attendees at Danville’s first LUNAFEST were treated to a lineup of short films created by female filmmakers. Proceeds from the event went to Soroptimist International to sponsor She’s All That!, an annual conference for empowering middle school girls. LUNAFEST is not only a celebration of the art of filmmaking. The festival opened up conversations about women in the community and impacted a large audience, selling out the Danville Village Theatre and Art Gallery. “I’m just really excited to see women come together for the same cause,” said Ellen Chun, a volunteer at LUNAFEST. “I feel like if we bond and we get together sometimes, we can do a lot more than we can individually.” The film festival consisted of eight short films that played over the course of 85 minutes. The topics ranged from sharply comedic to grimly serious, chronicling a variety of human experiences through actors and animation. LUNAFEST represents an inclusion of women onscreen and behind the camera, providing a unique perspective on art and society. Allowing these voices to be heard and amplified was a key theme of the
night. The festival was a source of inspiration for attendees, including Lydia Justice. “I think it’s great because we don’t have that in today’s world. It’s a man’s world-even at film festivals. To see young women going after this part of the industry is awesome. We need more women out there,” Justice said. Robert Silverman, a premier sponsor for the event, also emphasized the importance of encouraging women in professional activities. “I think any professional endeavors by women are a positive thing,” said Silverman. “Of course, historically, there’s been a lot of poor treatment of women, and anything where they can shine in professional activities is a positive.” LUNAFEST is a travelling film festival started by LUNA, a division of Clif Bar & Company. The event aims to uplift women and communities through both representation and fundraising. The local organizers of the Danville LUNAFEST were Lisa Wood and Vicky True, two businesswomen and members of the community who brought in the San Ramon chapter of Soroptimist International, which focuses on female education and empowerment worldwide. Working with Soroptimists Eileen Sheridan, Teresa Karlson and Joan Carr,
the team gathered support from 11 local sponsors and a small army of helpful volunteers to bring LUNAFEST to life. “I think having more women in anything is a good idea,” Cassidy Atkinson agreed. “Seeing women [in film] inspires young people to do what they’re seeing on screen.” LUNAFEST’s effect on the community also extends beyond the messages of the film screening. The funds raised by LUNAFEST will go to Soroptimist’s signature annual conference for middle school girls, She’s All That!. T h i s o n e - d ay eve n t h a s previously included seminars on entrepreneurship, finances, empowering relationships and other life skills. “They’re learning the structure of how to express themselves. And that’s a talent that they’ll take into life,” added Sarah Pate, a supporter of LUNAFEST. Atkinson, an S Club alumnus, was involved in She’s All That! during high school, running two classes while in her junior and senior years. She expanded on the importance of the conference and is hopeful about this year’s LUNAFEST encouraging girls to take part. “If it gets the word out to people that She’s All That! Is happening, news like that tends to spread,” Atkinson said. “So,
I think it could really help, and hopefully get more girls coming. It’s a wonderful program.” LUNAFEST was able to touch an impressive range of demographics and bring new perspectives to the greater community. The attendees of LUNAFEST were men and women of all ages, all gathered to support women, celebrate the films, and fundraise for She’s All That!. “I wanted to generate more conversations. That it’s okay to love and support women and girls,” said Jennifer Jost, the president of the local chapter of Soroptimist, on LUNAFEST. Following a pre-party at local restaurant The Vine & Spirits, eight short films ranging from three to seventeen minutes were played back-to-back over the course of the evening.
1,398 volunteer spots open for this period – openings she desperately hopes to fill. “This is the perfect time (to volunteer),” said Colombo. “People are more focused on giving back this time of year.” For anyone with the time and passion to help those in need at the Trinity Center, contact Volunteer Director Carol Lombard at carol@ trinitycenterwc.org. 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.
The filmmakers explored themes of racism, immigration, love, and coming-of-age. The theater was filled with laughter one minute, and deeply somber the next. These unexpected and utterly human moments tied the audience to the films and played a part in generating conversations in the community. Many attendees related to the films and appreciated the empowerment it brought to women. “It was fabulous movie making,” said attendee Joan Shuler, following the screening. “It was just over the top, wonderful, professional. Short, and all of them were different and inspiring, and it just made you feel good when you came out to the [fact that the] women did this. I thought it was great.” Will LUNAFEST come to Danville in 2020? Stay tuned!
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