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East Bay Regional Park District Regional in Nature Activity Guide
June 2016
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SPOTLIGHT
Brooke Starn (MVHS) named Outstanding Female Athlete of the Year The Rotary Club of Danville also recognizes Three Other Athletes The Rotary Club of Danville has named Monte Vista High School’s cross country and track & field standout, Brooke Starn, as outstanding female athlete of the year 20152016.
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On Monday, May 30, hundreds gathered to pay their respects to those service members who died while serving our country. Oak Hill Park in Danville was the setting for this annual Remembrance Program sponsored by the Viet Nam Veterans of Diablo Valley along with assistance from Town of Danville near the site of the All Wars Memorial. Also helping with the event were The Joint Veterans Service Organization Rifle Team and the U.S. Marine Corps. A moving ceremony, it should not be missed. It is held each year on Memorial Day.
The Green Heron may be among most intelligent birds By James Hale
The Green Heron (Butorides virescens) is a small, usually solitary, inconspicuous heron with an affinity to Contra Costa County’s ponds, sloughs, marshes, and wooded watercourses. It is found in mostly freshwater habitats throughout North and Central America. The genus Butorides is from the Middle English butor for “bittern” and Ancient Greek -oides, “resembling”; and virescens is Latin for “greenish”. It was long considered conspecific with its sister species the striated heron (Butorides striata), of the Old World tropics from west Africa to Japan and Australia, and in South America. The Green Heron, Striated Heron, and closely related Lava Heron (Butorides sundevalli) of the Galapagos Islands, were collectively known as the “green-backed herons”. The validity of subspecies is seriously disputed and the fossil
record is known from the Early Pleistocene Geological Epoch around two and one half million years ago. The Green Heron has a relatively small, chunky body, with short yellow legs. Adults are about one and one half feet long, with a two and one half foot wing span. The neck is frequently pulled in tight against the body. Adults have a glossy, greenish-black cap, that is raised to form a shaggy, sagittal crest when excited or disturbed. The wings and back are greenish, grading from grey-black into green and blue. The neck is a rich, deep chestnut with a white line down the front. The underparts are grey. Juveniles are duller and browner above, with a tan-splotched back and wing coverts. The head sides, neck
and underparts are streaked brown and white. Juveniles have greenish-yellow legs and bill. During courtship flight displays, male Green Herons vocalize with a variety of calls, sometimes with a wideopen bill. The most common call is a loud, sharp, sudden kyowk, sometimes followed
with a series of more subdued kuk calls. Green Herons prefer quiet, wetlands in low-lying areas where they are most conspicuous during dusk and dawn. However, they are See HERON page 4
This month’s Special Section:
Summer Beauty & Wellness
pages 8 - 9
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT dining out • music • art • theater • fun events
page 2
The Valley SenTinel
Safe at Home: A Short Survey of Baseball Art Now-June 12 Safe at Home celebrates America’s beloved pastime by bringing the sights, sounds, and excitement of the stadium into the gallery. This exhibition includes a mix of contemporary and historic works from artists, as well as memorabilia. $5 adults, $3 youth, children 12 & under free. Free for Friends of the Bedford. Bedford gallery, Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr. Walnut Creek. (925) 295-1417 or www. bedfordgallery.org.
You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown presented by Crosslight Theater Now through June 12 We follow hapless but always hopeful Charlie Brown and his friends through a day made up of little moments from all the days of Charlie Brown. From Valentine’s Day to baseball season, from wild optimism to utter despair, from bright uncertain morning to hopeful starlit evening. By the end of the day, they understand what “Happiness” is. George and Sonja Vukasin Theatre, 1601 Civic Dr, Walnut Creek. lesherartscenter.showare.com Art Tag= Inspire! Now-June 18 Art Tag is a three-month call and response process in which a circle of artists send individual pieces or materials to a partnering member of the circle. The partner, in
June 2016 turn, “responds” by creating an original two- or threedimensional work of art. After three cycles, the artists meet and discuss, argue, commiserate and celebrate the collaboration. The work of 17 women artists from six different Art Tag rounds is featured in this show. Village Theatre, 233 Front St, Danville. Call (925)314-3400 or visit villagetheatreshows. com. Rock of Ages presented by Center REPertory Now-June 25 This Tony Awardnominated Broadway musical takes you back to the times of big bands, with big egos, playing big guitar solos and sporting even bigger hair! Featuring the hits of bands including Journey, Night Ranger, REO Speedwagon, Pat Benatar, Twisted Sister and others. Lesher Center, 1601 Civic Dr, Walnut Creek. www.leshercenter.org
The Danville Area Chamber Of Commerce Presents
Along Hartz Avenue in Historic Downtown Danville
June18 & 19 10am to 5pm
Great Music!
Great Food!
Great Art!
European Train Exhibit!
Classic Car Show! (Sunday Only)
Hand to Heart - Collaborative and Community Quilts and Crafts Now- July 3 From the inception of the quilting bee, where women gathered to help one another complete a quilt for the coming winter, to the present day, quilters have traditionally made quilts to mark special occasions or to offer support, encouragement and love. The focus of this exhibit is to share all of the ways modern quilters and crafters are reaching out to friends, family and our community through their love of sewing. The exhibit will include charity and outreach projects such as unique children’s dresses, pet blankets and dolls. You will surely come away inspired to participate in and support these wonderful programs. $3 - $10. Children under 5 free. Museum of the San Ramon Valley, 205 Railroad Ave, Danville. 925-837-3750. http://museumsrv.org
valleysentinel.com Moonlight Movies June 10 6:30-11pm. Gather up the family and join your neighbors for respite under the stars. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets and picnic baskets. To help keep the little ones busy, arts and crafts will be available beginning at 6:30pm and go on until the movies get underway at sunset. Free admission. Town Green, 400 Front Street, Danville. www. danville.ca.gov/calendar
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Rock the Plaza! Fridays, June 10, 17 and
6:30- 8:30pm. Get ready to Rock the Plaza! Join us at Lafayette Plaza Park for live bands each Friday in June from 6:30-8:30pm. Free admission. Intersection of Moraga Road and Mt. Diablo Blvd. www.lafayettechamber. org Tutu’s School Bravo Bash June 11 3pm. Presented by Tutu School Walnut Creek. $10.50. Del Valle Theatre, 1601 Civic Dr, Walnut Creek. lesherartscenter.showare.com Miss Christie’s Annual Dance Recital: “Dancing Through the Decades” June 11 3pm & 6pm. The San Ramon Parks & Community Services Department and Miss Christie proudly present the 25th Annual Dance Recital: “Dancing Through the Decades”. Dancers from Miss Christie’s classes will perform pieces displaying their skills in Ballet, Jazz & Tap. This is a recital you will not want to miss! No intermission. $10. Dougherty Valley Performing Arts Center, 10550 Albion Rd, San Ramon. www.sanramon. ca.gov/parks/theater Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland June 11 6:30 - 8pm. Ligioso Ballet Studio presents “Alice’s Adventures In Wonderland” for their annual recital. $17.50 Hoffman Theatre, 1601 Civic Dr, Walnut Creek. lesherartscenter.showare.com
FUNKMODE presents How to Succeed in Hip Hop June 11 - 1pm & 6pm, Jun 12 - 11am. 125 performers. 9 original songs. 8 dance crews. The story: Ann Bishis has steadily moved up the corporate ladder at Ca$hin Records. Her mentor is now ready to retire and has recommended her for his position as president of the company. However, the CEO is not so easily persuaded and therefore throws down a serious challenge to test her worthiness. To get the job, Ann is going to have to convince the internet sensation “Hits” to join the label – and she only has one day to get it done – or be fired! $20. Village Theatre and Arts Gallery, 233 Front Street, Danville. www. villagetheatreshows.com June Demonstration presented by Lareen Fender’s The Ballet School June 12 11am-12:30pm & 2-3:30pm. Classroom work from students, Pre-Ballet up to the Advanced Level. Join the celebration of hard work and progression of the dancers. Hoffman Theatre, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. lesherartscenter.showare.com Bottom of the Ninth: Closing Reception and Baseball Salon June 12 3-5pm. Join us for the Safe at Home closing reception and baseball salon featuring a staged reading of Barry Gifford’s one-act play, “Spring Training at the Finca Vigia” by the Krevsky Dramatic Playhouse. Directed by Earll Kingston, the play is set in 1940s Cuba during Brooklyn Dodgers training season. It stars Maxine Hong Kingston as Martha Gelhorn, Ernest Hemingway’s wife, and beloved Oakland Tribune journalist Dave Newhouse as Brooklyn Dodgers pitcher Kirby Higbe. The event also features dramatic readings of “Casey at the Bat” along with brief selections of other related works. General $5; Youth (13-17) $3; Children 12 and under, free. First Tuesdays are free. Free for ticket holders to events in the Lesher Center
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT dining out • music • art • theater • fun events
valleysentinel.com for the Arts on ticketed date. Bedford Gallery, inside the Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. (925) 295-1417. www. bedfordgallery.org
Art In Motion Performance 2016 June 12 6pm. Annual performance of dance and musical theatre production numbers by Art In Motion performers. $15. Village Theater, 233 Front Street, Danville. www. villagetheatreshows.com. Classical Dance and Music of South India Showcase: Arrangetram Ceremony June 12, 26, & July 2 The culmination of many years of training and practice – this is a gift to the community in celebration
June 2016 of the student dancer. Free. Del Valle Theatre, 1601 Civic Dr, Walnut Creek. lesherartscenter.showare.com
The Valley Sentinel
Vukasin Theatre, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. lesherartscenter.showare.com
their talents and hard work on the piano. $12. George and Sonja Vukasin Theatre, 1601 Civic Dr, Walnut Creek. lesherartscenter.showare.com.
Sculpture Show Opening Night Social June 17 5-8pm. Mingle with artists and enjoy steel drum music at sunset to kick-off the Ruth Bancroft Garden’s 22nd annual Sculpture in the Garden exhibition and sale. Classical to whimsical sculpture by artists from the Bay area and beyond. $25. Food and drinks sold separately. The Ruth Bancroft Garden, 1552 Bancroft Rd. Walnut Creek. www. ruthbancroftgarden.org.
Danville Summerfest June 18 & 19 10am - 5pm. The Danville Summerfest offers fun, food, and entertainment for the whole family. More than 150 artists will display their paintings, photography, ceramics, glassware, jewelry, and more, while others demonstrate their talents right before your eyes. Stroll the tree-lined streets in search of that perfect piece, stop by the Culinary Arts Corner to see what’s cooking, quench your thirst at the Beverage Garden, and enjoy the myriad of live music playing throughout the event. Don’t miss the European Train Exhibit. Free. Downtown Danville. www. danvilleareachamber.com.
Summer Piano Recital June 18 5:15-6:15pm. Join the students of The Ballet School Performing Arts Music department as they share
Classical Dance and Music of South India Showcase: Student Recital June 19 2pm. A combination of all Bay Area Kalanjali students
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of all levels; from very young children, to professional, world class dancers, and everyone in between. Free. Del Valle Theatre, 1601 Civic Dr, Walnut Creek. lesherartscenter.showare.com The Trials of Alice in Wonderland presented by Puppets of Praise with St. Mark’s Lutheran Church June 19 2:15-3:15pm. The Trials of Alice in Wonderland brings together two of the greatest works in children’s literature. This fast paced and witty show is set in Wonderland’s court room, where Alice is on trial. Don’t miss this first ever, all black light puppet production. $15. George and Sonja
How do you get your kicks?
C.S. Lewis Onstage: The Most Reluctant Convert presented by Fellowship for Performing Arts June 24-26 Max McLean takes audiences on a fascinating theatrical adventure as C.S. Lewis, tracing his journey from atheism to faith. Hoffman Theatre, 1601 Civic Dr, Walnut Creek. lesherartscenter.showare.com Reminisce presented by Nava Dance Theatre June 26 5:15-6:30pm. “Reminisce” is a bharatanatyam dance concert exploring the concept of memories. Nadhi Thekkek delves into the memories of a person in love, of a mother, of a refugee, and others. Nadhi will be performing alongside various musicians. $17.75. George and Sonja Vukasin Theatre, 1601 Civic Dr, Walnut Creek. lesherartscenter.showare.com
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The Valley Sentinel
June 2016
Cancer Survivorship
Advertorial
By Dr. Tyler Kang
June is national cancer survivorship month, and it is a celebration of the advances that we have achieved over the past century against this group of diseases collectively known as cancer. More people are living with a cancer diagnosis each year, and they number in the tens of millions in the United States and worldwide. While most of our cancer treatment focuses on what
happens before and during the therapy process, those who have completed cancer therapies have to deal with what happens after. The phase of cancer care management that is often lacking. One issue with regard to cancer survivorship is coordination of care between oncologists and primary care physicians. Given the rise in number of cancer survivors, it is increasingly beyond the capacity of cancer specialist to care for them. Therefore after several years of remission,
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care of cancer survivors are often being relinquished back to their primary care doctors. However, primary care providers often do not possess a complete understanding of their patients’ cancer treatment or the consequences and long term monitoring needs that cancer therapies entail. One mandate from the Institute of Medicine is for improvement of the coordination of care between cancer specialists and primary care providers. A key recommendation is for the creation of a “survivorship care plan” (SCP). SCPs include a summary of the cancer treatments one received along with followup care plans that would facilitate the transition of care and which will guide management and self-care for cancer survivors. SCPs should be disseminated to both patients and their primary care physicians. Other frequent issues that cancer survivors have HERON from page 1
valleysentinel.com to contend with is that of secondary cancers. Both chemotherapy and radiation therapy can affect normal tissues by causing DNA mismatch and transcription abnormalities in cellular replication. While the majority of these abnormalities can be detected and eliminated by immune surveillance, a small number of them can lead to mutations that ultimately develop secondary cancers. Therefore, cancer survivors need to work with their physicians to undergo routine cancer screening tests as recommended. A much less recognized long-term problem is that of metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome is a set of factors that increase risks of cardiovascular diseases. Studies have shown that patients who have undergone chemotherapy have at least doubling of metabolic syndrome. Individuals who already have medical problems (diabetes, obesity) or who have a family history of heart disease are probably
at even higher risks. It is therefore important to emphasize lifestyle modifications including dieting and exercise to help reduce development of cardiovascular problems as a part of the survivorship care plan. As cancer treatments improve and we have increasing numbers of patients who survive their disease, patients along with their physicians should remain mindful that the treatments themselves may have long term consequences that should not be lightly forgotten. Cancer care should continue beyond mere surveillance for cancer recurrence, and only with judicious management of the patient’s mental and physical well being will we truly be able to help patients past the shadow cast by a cancer diagnosis. Dr. Kang is a board certified Medical Oncologist and Hematologist with Epic Care, a group of experts in the diagnosis and comprehensive treatment of cancer and blood disorders. www.epic-care.com
sometimes on the ground. The clutch of two to six pale green eggs are laid in two day intervals. Both parents incubate the clutch for nineteen to twenty-one days until hatching. Both parents feed the nestlings with some young beginning to leave the nest at sixteen days of age. Nestlings are not fully fledged and able to fend for themselves until thirty to thirty-five days old. In optimum years, Green Herons
will breed and nest twice. Green Heron populations have likely suffered greatly due to the disturbance and destruction of freshwater and riparian habitats, but current populations levels could be maintained by vigilant protection of these habitats. James M. Hale is a wildlife biologist, ethnobiologist, and ecological consultant based in Contra Costa County. Visit his website at www.dochale.com
often seen as they actively feed during the day. Green Herons mainly eat fish, frogs, and aquatic arthropods. A wide variety of food items have been recorded for this species, including leeches and mice. They are ambush predators. Occasionally, they drop insects, leaves, food, and other items on the surface of the water as bait to attract fish. This tool-using feeding method has led some ornithologists to suggest the Green Heron as among the world’s most intelligent birds. They are capable of hovering briefly to catch prey. Green Herons are seasonally monogamous, nesting from March through August, after an intense courtship display by the males, who select the nesting sites. Green Heron nests in Contra Costa County have long been noted in close proximity to human settlements, often in urban settings. I have recorded nest sites at the northwest corner of Civic Drive and Broadway, along Locust Street and along California Blvd. in downtown Walnut Creek. I have also recorded Green Heron nests in downtown Concord, Clayton, Alamo, Danville, and Orinda. Nests consist of a platform of sticks lined with softer material, James Hale rescues a baby green heron that fell from its nest often in a tree or shrub,
valleysentinel.com
June 2016
The Valley Sentinel
page 5
Advertorial
Why Aren’t My Scars Healing?
Exploring Class IV Laser pain relief for injuries and post-surgical healing By Dr. Niele Maimone, DC
In 2004, Align Healing Center began using laser therapy to help patients relieve their muscle, joint and nerve pain. Due to the near miraculous results that laser can provide to a sprain, strain or chronic pain, our patients began to ask “what else can laser help heal?” Wondering the same thing, we began to branch out and use laser on any and all injuries and wounds that our patients were presented with. We have literally watched the healing process occur right before our very eyes. We have treated scars that are ATHLETES from page 1 Starn was selected for the honor from a field of four candidates representing the San Ramon Valley high schools. Runner-up nominees were: Devyn Diolazo (Lacrosse) Dougherty Valley High School; Morgan Taylor (Lacrosse), California High School and Katherine Claybaugh (Volleyball), San Ramon Valley High School. Each candidate was nominated by their schools’ coaches and athletic directors, and were selected based on their accomplishments and honors in their sports, their leadership and service to the community. “We annually honor outstanding female athletes that personify excellence in athletics, leadership and community service” said Danville Rotary President Leslie Steller. “These young women are excellent role models for all female athletes, regardless of their age.” The athletes were recognized at a recent Danville Rotary Club luncheon attended by their
18 years old that are bright red and have never healed properly begin to flatten and become less noticeable after the first treatment. Swelling reduces within minutes, severe bruises dissipate with no visible sign within a day or two and surgical wounds become painless, with minimal scarring and redness. We have had patients that have had knee surgery and hip replacements, shoulder surgery, spinal surgery, breast augmentation and reconstruction, rhinoplasty, face-lifts and c-sections that heal in a fraction of the time typical without the use of laser therapy. If you are intending on having surgery or have a stubborn injury that
has taken longer to heal than you would have expected it is worth your while to explore the benefits of Class IV K-Laser therapy. How Laser Therapy Speeds Tissue Healing and Reduces Scaring Injuries and surgery cause tissue damage and inflammation, which reduces the circulation to the injured tissue thereby impeding the nutrition and energy available to the damaged area. Laser therapy is the application of low levels of laser light to areas of the body that have been injured or damaged. Therapeutic lasers do not cut or burn, but instead, supply energy to the body in the form of photons of light. Light is transmitted
coaches, school officials and parents. The keynote speaker was Julie Haener, news anchor at KTVU Channel 2 News. Haener’s message was one of perseverance and how as a young women in a male dominated industry she overcame many obstacles to get to where she is today. Starn’s name will be inscribed on a perpetual trophy that will be housed at Monte Vista High School for the next year. Each school’s athletic department received a monetary donation from Rotary Club of Danville. Starn, who is described by her coach as the “best cross country and track athlete in Monte Vista High School history,” was also characterized as ”humble, an outstanding leader, dedicated and extremely hard-working.” Starn is a 4-time 1st team all-EBAL selection in cross country and was the EBAL Champion in 2015. She holds the school record in the 1600 and 3200 and is ranked in the top 10 in the United States in both of those distances. Starn will be attending Harvard University in the fall of 2016.
“We congratulate and salute all four nominated athletes,” said Steller. “The Rotary Club of Danville is always honored to sponsor the Outstanding Female Athlete of Year awards, as well as several of our other programs that recognize the achievements of local youth. These young people represent the next generation of community leaders who exemplify Rotary’s values of leadership, dedication and service.” The Rotary Club of Danville is dedicated to serving the community with philanthropic projects such as the scholarship awards. Past projects include donating backpacks and dictionaries to local school children, a $35,000 donation to the remodel of the Veterans Hall and ongoing support of the Discovery Counseling Center, a community-based non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the well-being and quality of life for individuals and families in the Greater San Ramon Valley. For more information see www. danvillerotary.org
through the skin’s layers (the dermis, epidermis and the subcutaneous tissue under the skin). The wavelength of the Class IV Laser allows these photons to travel deep into the body up to 8-9 inches. When laser light penetrates into the body, it stimulates damaged cells to start producing ATP. ATP is the “fuel” or energy source that all cells need to function and repair. When damaged cells have the energy they need to function properly they can immediately start the repair process. Laser therapy accelerates the healing of injured tissue, decreases inflammation, minimizes scarring and eliminates pain, allowing patients to quickly return to normal activities.
How long does it take to work? 95% of our patients notice improvement after the very first treatment. However, some conditions may take a few treatments to respond. Each laser treatment is cumulative, meaning that each successive treatment builds on the previous. The doctors at Align personally work with you each visit to ensure that you are progressing as quickly as possible. For more information about how laser therapy may be helpful to you contact Align Healing Center to schedule a free consultation with Dr. Niele Maimone (925)3628283. Visit us on the web at www.AlignHealingCenter.com.
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Alamo Rotary Club Honors Students and Hill Country Club. Principals Ruth Steele from San Ramon Educators from each school were on Valley HS, Jon Campopiano Each May students and educators from the six local schools are honored by the Rotary Club of Alamo at a luncheon where they receive a plaque and thank you for their continued support and contribution to their schools and community. This year’s luncheon was held on May 18 at Round
hand to explain the process of selection used to choose this year’s recipients and to describe the special characteristics that make each winner deserving of this recognition. We were pleased to welcome Stan Hitoni from Alamo School, Nick Berger from Lucille Mauzy, Skye Larsh from Rancho Romero,
from Stone Valley and Dr. Kevin Ahern from Monte Vista HS. Students were chosen not just for academic excellence, but for their enthusiastic involvement in school activities and for their See ROTARY HONORS page 5
Chris@via.pm.com
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The Valley SenTinel
June 2016
valleysentinel.com
The Alamo hills are alive with the Sound of Hammers…
(Left to right) is District 5160 Trainer and Governor Nominee Designate Jon Dwyer and Past Rotary International President Richard King
Alamo Rotary Celebrates 45th Anniversary The Rotary Club of Alamo celebrated its 45th anniversary at its May 11 meeting. The Club was honored by the attendance of Candace Andersen; Supervisor, District 2; Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors and Cindy Chin; District Director; Catharine B. Baker; Assemblywoman, 16th District. Each presented Alamo Rotary with a Certificate of Recognition for its long-standing service to the Community. Three Rotary dignitaries also helped the Club
celebrate. Past Rotary International President Richard King, Rotary District 5160 Governor Ken Courville, and District 5160 Trainer and Governor Nominee Designate Jon Dwyer. Past President Richard King was the featured speaker. He presented a moving story of the tremendous service Rotary has provided to developing countries around the world. King also recognized Alamo Rotarian Greg Schuyler as a Charter Member of the Club.
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several Alamo Municipal Advisory Council meetings. In response, the Fire District revised the plans a number of times. The overall economic picture for the district and for the rest of the county, for that matter, changed to reduced expectations for tax revenue. For this reason, construction of the Alamo Fire Station was halted. It was only early this year that the financial picture for the district improved. Groundbreaking was on February 22 and framing was started in May. For more information please visit the Fire District website at www. firedepartment.org under “Construction Projects.” Alamo can soon look forward to having a brand-new modern Fire Station and the sound of hammers in the hills will be silenced. Steve Mick is a longtime Alamo resident 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.
Alamo Rotary announces search for 2016 Citizen Of The Year The Rotary Club of Alamo needs your help!
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By Steve Mick with the hazards of entering Stone Valley Road, led district management to consider changing the fire station location(s) in Alamo Last month we reported on District staffers analyzed the approval and construction response times, population process for Stone Valley Middle predictions and development School. A groundbreaking plans and decided that two ceremony at the school stations – one in North Alamo was held on May 12 and and one in South Alamo construction has now started. - would offer the optimum Construction has also configuration. Accordingly, started on Fire Station 32. The the district purchased a site new station is located at the at the corner of Danville Blvd intersection of Stone Valley and Hemme Avenue as the Road and Miranda Ave and is southern station. Long-time part of the SRV Fire Protection Alamo residents recalled that District. However, getting to this was the location of the this point in the design and Shady Way Inn, an Alamo construction process of the landmark on Highway 21. new station has been a lengthy There was a structure in poor road with several twists and condition on the site and the turns. fire district made good use of The existing fire station if for training exercises. on Stone Valley Road was built As time passed, further in the late 1950’s. Over the studies indicated that a years, it became apparent that centrally located fire station this location was becoming would provide the best increasingly sub-standard response time. At this point, for efficient emergency the Fire District acquired the response. This was due both Stone Valley Road property. to increased development and There then ensued a lengthy the emergence of more and design process. One reason larger firefighting equipment. for this is that there were There just wasn’t room for numerous concerns that everything. This, coupled neighbors brought up during
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Alamo has hundreds of dedicated citizens who give countless hours in service to the community. The Rotary Club of Alamo is once again asking for your input in selecting the Alamo 2016 Citizen of the Year. Nominees must be people who in the past year (and probably but not necessarily over many recent years) have demonstrated a unique commitment to the Alamo community. Many of you probably know such a person who deserves this singular recognition. Nominees must truly represent your view of the very best of citizenship, service, and integrity. Past recipients have been: 1985: Dr. Russ Miller 1986: “Dr. Don” Rose ROTARY HONORS from page 1 steadfast service to others. The following students were honored: Carter Bergen (Alamo School), Peter Orlov (Mauzy School), Emma Eichten (Rancho Romero), Joaquin Taylor (San Ramon Valley HS), Mimi Janze
1987: 1988: 1989: 1990: 1991: 1992: 1993: 1994: 1995: 1996: 1997: 1998: 1999: 2000: 2001: 2002: 2003: 2004: 2005: 2006: 2007: 2008: 2009:
Brian Thiessen Andrew Young Joan Buchanan Bob Myhre Wanda Lognecker Claudia Mauzy Nemir Virgie Jones Mark Kahn Bruce Marhenke Russ Hagerstrand Joan Benbow Karen McPherson Richard Delfosse John Henderson Diane Barley Claudia Waldron Rick James Greg Schuyler Mike Gibson Don Morton Chris Suter Alisa Corstorphine Elmer Glasser
(Stone Valley School), and Mark Buesa (Monte Vista HS). Educators were recognized for their exceptional dedication and for serving as a constant inspiration to their students. The following Educators
2010: Vicki Koc 2011: Roger Smith 2012: Nancy Dommes 2013: Dick Olsen 2014 Stan Hitomi Please give serious thought to who you consider an outstanding Alamo Citizen. We encourage you to submit a nomination for this year. The deadline is August 19, and the award will be announced and presented on September 21. To submit a name and obtain a submission form, contact the following Alamo Rotarian: Dick Olsen, Chairman, Alamo Citizen of the Year Committee, 130 Bunce Meadows, Alamo, CA 94507. (925) 855-1598. Email: dickolsen@att.net were honored: Tina Flores (Alamo School), Debbie Munoz (Mauzy School), Diane O’Hara (Rancho Romero), Kim Tretten (San Ramon Valley HS), Ben Loomer (Stone Valley School), and Mike Huntsman (Monte Vista HS).
valleysentinel.com
June 2016
The valley Sentinel
page 7
Splash into Summer By Beverly Lane, East Bay Regional Parks District
East Bay Regional Park District is splashing into summer, with lifeguard service available at lots of district lakes and pools. Altogether the park district operates 10 guarded swim facilities, plus two beaches on San Francisco Bay where no lifeguard service is provided. Three good places for swimming and other activities are Castle Rock Regional Recreation Area in Walnut Creek, Contra Loma Regional Park in Antioch, and Lake Anza at Tilden Regional Park in Berkeley.
Castle Rock, located at the end of Castle Rock Road past Northgate High School, has a 30 by 70 foot swimming pool in a grove next to picnic areas and ball fields. Lifeguards are on duty from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekends and holidays through Sept. 18, and Thursdays and Fridays from June 16 to Aug. 19. The changing rooms and pool are disabled accessible. There’s a pool access fee of $3.50 for ages 16 through 61; $2.50 for ages 1 through 15, seniors and disabled; and free for infants under a year old. Cash or check only, no bills over $20. As with all park district swim areas, lifeguard service depends on staff availability, weather, water quality and
level of patronage. Before or after your swim, you can picnic, play ball, and hike or bike on the shady Stage Road Trail, which follows Pine Creek up the canyon towards Mt. Diablo, with spectacular views of the Castle Rocks. It all makes for a very pleasant day’s outing. Contra Loma Regional Park is located at the end of Frederickson Lane off Golf Course Road in Antioch. The park has a swim lagoon and concession stand located next to Contra Loma Reservoir; there’s no swimming in the reservoir itself. The lagoon includes a sandy beach and wading area for smaller children. There’s a disabled accessible lift into the swim lagoon. Lifeguard service is on weekends and holidays
Advertorial
How to Sell Your Business and Avoid the Taxes 3. The trustee sells By Robert Cucchiaro
Often times our business owner clients are interested in selling their businesses and walking away, but fear that the tax bill will be so high that it won’t be worth it. When this is the case, one of the options that we help clients consider is the Charitable Remainder Trust (CRT). The idea behind a CRT is, that if done correctly, you can sell an asset and defer the capital gains taxes. Let’s use a simple case study to help illustrate the concept: Background Joe and Betty Smith (both age 65) have built a very successful business and believe they will sell it in the near future for approximately $10,000,000. They started the business with virtually no assets and have no cost basis in the company stock. Their tax advisors tell them that they will owe as much $2,500,000 in capital gains tax on the sale of the business. Furthermore, the sale of the business would mean less income for them each year as they both draw a salary and profits from the business today. In addition, Joe and Betty have been very generous over the years and
given many gifts to their favorite charities. They plan to do even more gifting as part of their estate planning as they want to leave some but not all of their estate to their children. A Solution One way for the Smith’s to avoid both of these problems (taxes and loss of income) is through a Charitable Remainder Trust (CRT). This tax and estate planning strategy will allow Joe and Betty to do the following: 1. Avoid capital gains taxes upon the sale of the stock, 2. Provide them with a lifetime income, 3. Generate an immediate income tax deduction, 4. Reduce their ultimate estate tax bill, and 5. Provide a large gift to their favorite charities after their deaths. The Process By working with our client’s other Advisors, like their CPA and Estate Planning Attorney, we put together the following process: 1. Create an irrevocable trust that will provide lifetime income to Joe and Betty, as long as either is alive 2. Transfer stock in the company to the trustee of the trust
the stock and reinvests the proceeds into income producing investments. The trust will provide that a certain percentage of the trust (6% for example) shall be paid out to Joe and Betty each year 4. Joe and Betty will take an immediate tax deduction on their personal tax returns based off of the value of what will ultimately go to charity from the trust If you are interested in selling your business and reducing the tax bill or simply have more questions on how the process works, give us a call. We are always here to help and offer an initial consultation at no charge to review your specific situation. Robert Cucchiaro is a Certified Financial Planner and a registered tax preparer. He is a Partner and owner of Summit Wealth & Retirement Partners, a financial planning firm with over 75 years of combined experience in the financial services industry that has been serving Danville for over 30 years. Rob specializes in retirement, investment, tax, and estate planning. You can find more information on our website www.summitwealthandretirement.com
through Sept. 18, weekdays as well through Aug. 19. There’s a parking fee of $5 per vehicle. Swim lagoon fees are $3 for ages 16 through 61, $2 for ages 1 through 15, seniors and disabled; and free for infants under one year old. Cash or check only, no credit cards accepted. Besides the swim lagoon, Contra Loma has picnic areas, fishing in the reservoir – which is stocked with trout and catfish, and a boat launch ramp for electric motor boats. There’s a mostly flat, scenic walking trail around the reservoir. And Contra Loma is adjacent to Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve, which has miles of hiking trails. Lake Anza is located on Lake Anza Road off Tilden’s Central Park Drive, near the merry-go-round. Swim fees and hours are the same as at Castle Rock. Lifeguard service is daily through Sept. 9, then on weekends and holidays through Sept. 18. Tilden offers a myriad of other attractions besides swimming: the Environmental Education Center, a botanic garden, a steam train, picnic areas, and miles of trails for hiking and riding. Another district swim area is Little Hills Picnic Ranch on Bollinger Canyon Road in San
Ramon. This park is available for group picnics by advance reservation only. For more complete information on swimming opportunities in the East Bay Regional Parks, visit the district web site at www.ebparks. org. Click on “Activities” on the left side of the home page, then click on “Swimming” and again on “Swim Facilities.” Here are some safety tips to remember when you go swimming: • Know your level of swimming ability and stay within it. • No alcoholic beverages, dogs, glass containers, fishing or barbecues are allowed in the swim areas. Swimming and alcoholic beverage consumption are a bad mix. • Children must be supervised by a responsible adult, which means under your watchful eye at all times. If lifeguards see a young child who appears to be unaccompanied, they will remove the child from the water and look for the parents. • Be sure to have adequate sun protection. Sunburn can ruin an otherwise enjoyable day. • Please follow any instructions from lifeguards, rangers, police or firefighters, especially in an emergency.
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The Valley SenTinel
June 2016
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Facial Redness Needs Proper Diagnosis By Connie Tomcik, RN Do your friends ask where you got your sunburn and you have to respond for yet another time, “This is my normal red rosy color.” Are you tired of trying to mask the red flushing and blushing on your face, neck, chest, hands and arms? Facial redness can affect both men and women and is most common in fair skin Irish, English, Scottish or northern European ancestry. This is the most common complaint in our office and there is an easy solution. The most important issue in red flushing skin is an accurate diagnosis. Finding the cause of the redness must be accomplished before effective treatment begins. A Board Certified Dermatologist has the training and skills to do this. For example: Acne and Rosacea blemishes are
treated with topical creams and antibiotics. Allergic reactions to cosmetic cream require the correct topical cream. Combining these therapies with “Foto Facial” using Intense Pulsed Light, treats the redness and flushing and also the dark freckles caused by chronic sun exposure. Here in Northern California we see this kind of sun damage starting in the mid 30’s. Intense Pulsed Light (IPL), sometimes called BBL (Broad Band Light), decreases the redness and increases collagen, giving the skin a glow of health, a natural color and a more youthful appearance. This non-laser multiple light wave therapy is done in the comfort of the Dermatologist’s office after an evaluation by the doctor to make sure you have the correct diagnosis and are a good candidate
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for the treatment. After an evaluation of the unwanted coloration the process begins with a powerful prescription strength topical anesthetic to dramatically decrease any possible discomfort. Iced towels are applied just before the light flash penetrates the skin literally welding the blood vessels shut. The whole process takes about 20-30 minutes for the face and another 20-30 minutes for the neck and chest. After the treatment our patients may apply sunscreen and make-up and return to work. Initial treatments are usually a series of 3-5 depending on your condition. A trained RN may preform these treatments after evaluation by a qualified physician. For your safety, a physician should be available and in the office during these treatments. We have been offering this therapy for more than 20 years— experience counts! Along with the above therapies a good physician directed home care skin program, which includes the daily use of at least an SPF 30 sunscreen, is important. Faithful use of high SPF sunscreens and IPL treatments have brought new hope to the red alert situation that affects so many people. For further information about the health of your skin, hair and nails contact Dr. Michael Tomcik at Advanced Laser & Skin Care Center, 101 Park Place, Suite 101, San Ramon, Calif. 94583 or call: 925-743-1488
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valleysentinel.com
June 2016
The Valley SenTinel
page 9
WARNING: Life will be back in balance. Knee replacement from the Coon Joint Replacement Institute Diane Livingston | Vintner
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Senior Living page 10
valleysentinel.com
June 2016
Finding a Nursing Home By Cate Kortzeborn
These programs serve a variety of groups, including people with mental illnesses, intellectual or developmental disabilities, and/or physical disabilities. But a nursing home may not be the best option. A variety of community services may help with your personal care and activities, as well as with home modification and equipment to support you staying at home. Some services, like volunteer groups that help with things like shopping or transportation, may be low cost or may ask for a voluntary donation. Some services may be available at varied costs depending on where you live and the services you need. These home services and programs may be available in your community: • Adult day care; • Adult day health care, which offers nursing and therapy; • Meal programs; • Senior centers; • Friendly visitor programs; • Help with shopping and transportation; • Help with legal questions, paying bills, and other financial matters. How do you find such local services? Try the Eldercare Locator, a guide to help older adults and their caregivers connect to services, including longterm care services and supports. Visit www.eldercare. gov, or call 1-800-677-1116. Cate Kortzeborn is Medicare’s acting regional administrator for Arizona, California, Hawaii, Nevada, and the Pacific Territories. You can always get answers to your Medicare questions by calling 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).
he or she provides care at any local nursing homes. If so, ask your doctor which nursing homes he or she visits so you may continue to see him or her while Are you looking for a you’re in the nursing home. nursing home for yourself • If you’re in the or a loved one? hospital, ask your social People go to nursing worker about discharge homes for different reasons. planning as early in your They may be sick or hospital stay as possible. hurt and require ongoing The hospital’s staff should nursing care. They may be able to help you find a have had surgery and need nursing home that meets time to recuperate. Or they your needs and help with may have chronic care your transfer when you’re needs or disabilities that ready to be discharged. make long-term nursing Medicare provides a care a necessity. handy way to check out Many communities local nursing homes, using have nursing homes. But our Nursing Home Compare how do you pick one that’s website: www.Medicare. best for you or your family gov/nursinghomecompare. member in need? Nursing Home The first step is to Compare provides a wealth learn about the available of information on quality facilities in your area. You of care and staffing levels can do that in a number of at more than 15,000 ways. nursing homes certified • Ask people you trust, for Medicare and Medicaid like your family, friends, patients throughout or neighbors if they’ve had the United States. One personal experience with excellent feature is the star Keep up with nursing homes. They may rating system. Facilities local happenings at be able to recommend one can receive from one to to you. five stars, with five stars • Ask your doctor if being the highest rating. These star ratings give you a quick snapshot of the facility. Keep in mind that Savvy Social Security for Same Sex Couples Medicare covers shortWhat Same Sex Couples need to know term nursing home stays following toSame help maximize retirement income strategies What Sex Couples need to know to help maximize retirement income strategies. hospitalization, but generally doesn’t cover long-term care stays in a AtAt this will tlearn the afollowing this workshop workshop you you will learn he following nd more: and more: nursing home. Medicare coverage of home and • Rules and guidelines for when spouses should apply for benefits community-based long• Rules and guidelines for when spouses should apply for benefits • How marriage or remarriage affects your benefits term care services is very Savvy Social Security for Same Sex C•ouples How marriage or remarriage affects your benefits limited. • How much Social Security you and your spouse stand to receive • How m uch S ocial S ecurity y ou a nd y our s pouse s tand t o r eceive o ver y our joint lifetime covers longMedicaid Couples need to know to help maximize retirement income strategies. over your joint lifetime term nursing home stays, • key Two key concepts you to need to kabout now asurvivor bout survivor benefits • Two concepts you need know benefits p you will learn the following and more: and may include coverage • How to know which spouse should take advantage of spousal benefit of home- and communityd guidelines for when spouses should apply • for bHow enefits to know which spouse should take advantage of spousal benefit based services (HCBS). rriage or remarriage affects your benefits ch Social Security you and your spouse stand to receive over your joint lifetime HCBS provide opportunities Hosted by Maureen Richardson, CFP® concepts you need to know about survivor benefits for people with Medicaid know which spouse should take advantage of spousal benefit to get services in their own home or community.
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valleysentinel.com
June 2016
SRVUSD schools earn “Gold Ribbon Schools Award” Eighteen elementary schools in San Ramon Valley Unified School District (SRVUSD) have received the prestigious “Gold Ribbon Schools Award” for 2016. The announcement came from California State Superintendent Tom Torlakson on April 14, 2016. The SRVUSD schools are among the 772 elementary schools in California to receive the honor. “These awards are a testament to the excellent education provided by our teachers, the commitment of our classified staff, the leadership of our site administrators and the dedication of our parents and students,” SRVUSD Superintendent Mart Shelton said. “I congratulate our schools on their achievement.” The Gold Ribbon Awards recognize California schools that have made gains in implementing the academic content and performance standards adopted by the State Board of Education. These include the California Standards for English Language
Arts and Mathematics, California English Language Development Standards, and Next Generation Science Standards. The SRVUSD Gold Ribbon Schools Award went to the following elementary schools: • Alamo Elementary • Bollinger Canyon Elementary • Country Club Elementary • Creekside Elementary • Golden View Elementary • Green Valley Elementary • Greenbrook Elementary • Hidden Hills Elementary • John Baldwin Elementary • Live Oak Elementary • Montevideo • Neil Armstrong • Quail Run Elementary • Rancho Romero Elementary • Sycamore Valley Elementary • Tassajara Hills Elementary • Twin Creeks • Vista Grande
Sentinels of Freedom Partners With PG&E and Los Medanos College first SVRC, launched in 2012 at
Local non-profit Sentinels of Freedom has recently established a Student Veteran Resource Center (SRVC) at Los Medanos College with the help of utilities giant, Pacific Gas and Electric. The ribbon cutting ceremony which took place on April 28th marks the opening of the first SVRC in Contra Costa County. Sentinels of Freedom whose mission is to serve wounded and injured post 9/11 members of the armed forces, provides multi-facet scholarships to recipients which may include a housing subsidy, financial counseling, business networking, career mentoring, and employment networking. Starting with its
San Francisco State University, the San Ramon based nonprofit has made SVRCs a top priority opening one at the College of Alameda in 2015, and has two more slated for the Contra Costa County area at Diablo Valley College and Contra Costa College. These resource centers are built with the specific needs of student veterans in mind. Many student veterans will benefit from a veteran community on campus as well as a quiet place to study. These centers are also filled with resources for student veterans such as information regarding their veterans’ benefits and GI Bill.
The Valley SenTinel
page 11
SRVUSD Appoints Rick Schmitt as Superintendent On Tuesday, May 24, 2016, the San Ramon Valley Unified School District’s (SRVUSD) Board of Education appointed Rick Schmitt as the District’s new superintendent, effective July 1, 2016. Mr. Schmitt will lead the District following Superintendent Mary Shelton’s retirement at the end of June. “Rick Schmitt brings vision and focus, years of experience and a passion for creating an educational environment in which students and staff can achieve their greatest potential,” SRVUSD Board President Greg Marvel said. “Under Rick’s leadership, our students, staff, parents and community can look forward to the continued educational excellence and visionary leadership that has led to the San Ramon Valley Unified School District’s reputation as an outstanding destination district.” Mr. Schmitt was selected as the finalist from an outstanding field of candidates. The Board and members of the SRVUSD community conducted a site visit to San Dieguito Union High School District on May 2. Following a positive site visit, the Board took action at their May 3 Board meeting to make an offer of employment to Mr. Schmitt. On May 24, Board members and Mr.
Schmitt signed the contract in open session. “I am humbled, flattered and extremely grateful for this opportunity,” Mr. Schmitt said. “I would like to thank the Board of Education for trusting me to lead this incredible school district. I would also like to give congratulations to San Ramon Valley Unified students, staff and parents for having the Bay Area’s highest graduation rate, according to the latest release from the California Department of Education. July cannot come soon enough for me! I look forward to beginning my work in the San Ramon Valley community.” Mr. Schmitt is currently the Superintendent of the San Dieguito Union High School District (SDUHSD), which covers multiple cities in north-coastal San Diego County. He began his career teaching history, economics, government, AP Economics, AP Government and AP U.S. History in a variety of schools. Upon earning his master’s degree and administrative credential, he became a Vice Principal at Granada High School in Livermore, and then later was appointed Principal at East Avenue Middle School in Livermore. Wanting to be closer to his aging parents was the impetus for a move to San
Rick Schmitt Diego where he was Principal of Coronado High School for four years beginning in 1999. In 2003, he joined the San Dieguito Union High School District as Principal of Torrey Pines High School. He served as Associate Superintendent of Educational Services for six years providing district-wide leadership in curriculum, instruction, and assessment for the highest performing district in San Diego County, supervising pupil services, Special Education and Technology. In 2012, Mr. Schmitt was promoted to Deputy Superintendent, when his responsibilities were expanded to include district budget and general obligation bond planning and certificated and classified staffing. In 2013, he became Superintendent. Mr. Schmitt and his wife Lyssa, who owns a home staging business, will relocate to the San Ramon Valley from San Diego. They have two children – a son 27, who is an engineer for Illumina in San Diego, and a daughter, 25 who is a Project Manager for Forefront in New York City.
SENTINELS OF FREEDOM Scholarship Foundation
Housing • Education • Employment • Mentoring • Ongoing Support
Sentinels of Freedom provides the resources and support needed for severely wounded veterans to live active, engaged, and successful lives as they recover from the physical, emotional, and psychological impact of their injuries, learn to live with their disabilities, and work their way back to a life of complete self-sufficiency. To learn more about our organization please visit us at: www.sentinelsoffreedom.org www.facebook.com/sentinelsoffreedom (925) 380-6342 info@sentinelsoffreedom.org
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
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For additional Community Events visit: www.ValleySentinel.com Please email information about your events to info@valleysentinel.com COMMUNITY EVENTS Hope Hospice seeking volunteers Hope Hospice is currently looking for individuals who are interested in volunteering to assist hospice patients and their families. In keeping with Hope Hospice’s goal to make sure patients can live their lives to the fullest and with dignity, volunteers provide a variety of services that help enhance the quality of care of our patients’ lives. Volunteer opportunities include; Home Care; Cosmetology; Healing Touch; Reiki; Massage Therapy; Vocalists. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, contact Jill Biggs, RN, at 925-829-8770. Volunteers Needed: Read to Preschoolers Volunteers are needed at childcare centers in Concord, Pittsburg, and West County. The Contra Costa County Library will supply books and resources. For more information, please contact Maureen Kilmurray at 925-927-3288. Danville Farmer’s Market Every Saturday, Year-round 9am-1pm. Get the freshest seasonal fare at the Danville Certified Farmers’ Market. Railroad & Prospect Avenue, Danville. Information: www.ci.danville.ca.us. (You can make donations of fresh vegetables and fruit for our local food pantries at the Loaves & Fishes Booth at the Danville Farmers Market.) San Ramon Farmers Market Every Saturday & Thursday-Year-round, Bishop Ranch Buy fresh, seasonal produce directly from local farmers at San Ramon Farmers Market. Connect with your community while shopping at a festive gathering place with live music! www. SanRamonFarmersMarket.org Canine Companions for Independence Puppy Class Each Saturday 11am-12pm. Become a puppy raiser! The East Bay Miracles Chapter invites you to help train puppies to become assistant dogs for children and adults with disabilities. Make sure to check out their online calendar before heading off to volunteer. Athenian High School, 2100 Mt. Diablo Scenic Blvd., Danville. ccieastbay.org. FREE E-Waste Recycling Event First Saturday of every month 9am-1pm. Bring your old, unwanted electronic equipment. Drop off is FREE and all e-waste will be recycled right here in the good old USA. Diablo Valley College, 321 Golf Club Road in the Overflow Parking Lot #7, Pleasant Hill. Visit www.NoEwaste.com for accepted and non-accepted electronic items. Information: 866335-3373 or info@NoEwaste.com. Forest Home Farms Historic Park & Glass House Museum– open for Fun on the Farm Every Saturday 11am-2pm. Enjoy tours of the Glass House Museum, the farm and its history, interactive exhibits including the tractor museum, the beautiful grounds and free activities. Visit the Welcome Center and purchase old-fashioned toys and gifts at the Gift Shoppe. Tours are $5 per person, or $8 for both tours on the same day. 19953 San Ramon Valley Blvd, San Ramon. Information: 925-973-3284 or visit www.sanramon.ca.gov. Saturday without Reservations at the Tao House Every Saturday 10am, 12pm, and 2pm. Come explore the National Historic Site in Danville. Catch the shuttle at the bus stop in front of the Museum of the San Ramon Valley-205 Railroad Ave. www.EugeneOneill. org Bishop Ranch Wellness Fair June 8 11:30am -2pm. Dozens of vendors will be at Bishop Ranch to share the very latest health, diet and exercise info, present interactive demos and offer free cholesterol screening, bone density tests, blood pressure checks and chair massages. Enjoy healthy refreshments, great giveaways and raffles okfor valuable prizes! Attendees can also purchase a unique and delicious lunch from the Food Truck Mafia lineup. Free. Bishop Ranch 3, 2603 Camino Ramon, San Ramon. www.bishopranch.com/event/bishop-ranchhealth-fair Diablo Woodworkers June 11 10:30am. The Museum of San Ramon Valley Waiting Room exhibit features Diablo Woodworkers and their community projects as well as individual pieces created by the group’s members. Peggy will talk about the group’s varied community activities, woodworking, and the variety of Adult Education classes they offer. Peggy will
have with her a variety of items, including a shaker table, rocker and other pieces. Free. Museum of the San Ramon Valley, 205 Railroad Ave. Danville. 925-837-3750. http://museumsrv.org Mt. Diablo Branch California Writers Club “Writing Irresistible Query Letters” June 11 11:30-2pm. Author LeeAnne Krusemark will discuss: What to include and leave out, how to establish credibility in your query, how to create an effective “elevator pitch” and other query letter essentials. $25 for CWC members, $30 for guests. members, $30 for guests. Reservations are required, and must be received by Wednesday, June 8th. Contact Robin Gigoux at cwcrobin.gigoux@ yahoo.com or by phone at (925) 933-9670. Zio Fraedo’s Restaurant, 611 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill. http://cwcmtdiablowriters. wordpress.com Halstrom Academy’s Sip ‘n See June 14 9-10am. Halstrom Academy’s Sip ‘n’ See is an opportunity for prospective parents and community members to visit campus. Halstrom Academy, 101 Ygnacio Valley Rd., #345, Walnut Creek. www.halstromacademy.org/campus/walnutcreek Home in Harmony – Living with Less Stuff June 14 6:30-8:30 p.m. An abundance of material items can smother us in many ways, keeping us from focusing on what really matters. Simplicity brings balance to our life, freedom from distraction and joy to self. Marian Woodard and Denise Koroslev will present fun, practical ways to organize, de-clutter, and get our home in shape, while resisting the urge to bring in more stuff. Kimberly Lam and Anne Baker will show sustainable ways to recycle these discarded items, giving them a new life so they don’t end up in our landfill. $20. Rodgers Ranch Heritage Center, 315 Cortsen Rd, Pleasant Hill. To register, go to www.sustainablecoco.org/workshops Mt. Diablo Recycling Summer Camp June 15 & August 10 10am-12pm. School may be out for the summer, but it’s the perfect time to learn about recycling and respecting the environment at Mt. Diablo Recycling’s (MDR) fourth annual free Summer Camp. MDR is offering 2 separate sessions that will each include a tour of their 90,000-square-foot recycling facility and recycling trucks, recycling games and an interactive activity about the 5 R’s (ReduceReuse-Recycle-Respect-Recover). Mt Diablo Recycling Facility, 1300 Loveridge Road, Pittsburg. To sign up for camp sessions contact MDR’s Adriana Medina at 925-771-2721 or email Adriana. Medina@Garaventaent.com. www.MtDiabloRecycling.com Little Dresses for Africa June 18 10:30am. Join the Museum of San Ramon Valley for a demonstration presented by Barbara Mahan on how to make a pillow case dress for the Little Dresses for Africa Project. You will learn how to make the dress as well as be informed about this wonderful project. Children are welcome. Free. Museum of the San Ramon Valley, 205 Railroad Ave., Danville. 925-837-3750 or museumsrv.org Danville Summerfest June 18, 19 10am-5pm. The Danville Summerfest offers fun, food, and entertainment for the whole family. More than 150 artists will display their paintings, photography, ceramics, glassware, jewelry, and more, while others demonstrate their talents right before your eyes. Stroll the tree-lined streets in search of that perfect piece,stop by the Culinary Arts Corner to see what’s cooking, quench your thirst at the Beverage Garden, and enjoy the myriad of live music playing throughout the event. Don’t miss the electric train exhibit. Free. Downtown Danville. www.danvilleareachamber.com. 2016 Kiwanis 4th of July Parade: Honoring the Vietnam War Veterans July 4 9am. The Kiwanis Danville July 4th Parade is an incredible event which attracts over 40,000 attendees including local community residents as well as friends and family from areas far beyond Danville. The Parade starts at the corner of Hartz Avenue and Railroad Avenue, continues down Hartz and San Ramon Valley Boulevard and ends at the corner of San Ramon Valley Boulevard and Sycamore Valley Road. www.kiwanis-srv.org/join_parade San Ramon Independence Day celebration July 4 5-8pm. Live music, dancing, patriotic celebration, and salute to local veterans. Central Park, 12501 Alcosta Blvd., San Ramon. Additional parking will be available at Iron Horse Middle School. For more information please call 973-3200.
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) are open to all adults and meets on the second and fourth Wednesday of every month. The group starts at the Danville Park-n-Ride (next to the Sycamore Valley 680 North exit) at 9 am and returns about 1Pm. Most hikes are not strenuous, but gradients are involved due to the local terrain. Distances are usually in the 4-5 mile range, and the pace is moderate, with stops to view scenery, wildlife and to talk about location history when appropriate. Information: 925-314-3400 or visit www.ci.danville.ca.us/Recreation/Seniors/Senior_Hiking. San Ramon Seniors The following events are held at the Alcosta Senior & Community Center, 9300 Alcosta Blvd., San Ramon, unless otherwise noted. For more information call 925-973-3250 or visit www.sanramon. ca.gov/parks/programs/ages55+.htm. Wisdom Wednesdays: 10:30am-12pm. Free workshops and informational sessions that will benefit you. They will give you free access to coffee, knowledge and a better understanding of important issues. Information: 925973-3250. Trips Trip Desk is open Tuesday from 10am-1pm. Sign up for trips at the travel desk or by depositing payment with registration form in the gold drop box found at the main entryway. Information: 973-3250. Wednesday Morning Hikes (time and location varies) Join the San Ramon Trailblazers if you are interested in meeting new people, enjoying the outdoors, having fun and getting in shape. The group meets once a week at various locations, This is an adults only group; pets are not permitted on hikes. To find out the exact meeting location and to get on the email list, please call the Senior Center or email trailblazer88@comcast.net. Page Turners Senior Book Group Third Tuesday of the month 1:30pm. Drop in–all are welcome! Copies of this month’s book are on reserve for you at the San Ramon Library Front Desk. Book group meets at Alcosta Senior and Community Center, 9300 Alcosta Blvd. Information: Carol Yuke, Adult Services Librarian. 925-973-285.
BUSINESS Every Thursday BNI Noon-1:30pm. We are actively looking for new members to refer business to in the trades. We need a plumber, electrician, handyman and cleaning service but are also looking for other professions like property manager, event planner and many others. Vic Stewart’s Restaurant at 850 S Broadway in Walnut Creek. 925-330-8275 or david@staff.webquarry.com BBR-Partners for Success June 7 12-1pm. One of the Chamber’s successful Business by Referral groups, Partners for Success meets the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month to provide concrete business leads to one another. Chamber Conference Room, 117 E Town & Country Drive, Danville. www.danvilleareachamber.com BBR-Sunrise Alliance June 8 7:30-8:30am. One of the Chamber’s successful Business by Referral groups, Sunrise Alliance meets the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month to provide concrete business leads to one another. Chamber Conference Room, 117 E Town & Country Drive. Danville. www.danvilleareachamber.com After Hours Business Mixer June 9 5:30-7:00pm. Join the Danville Area Chamber of Commerce at 24 Hr Fitness, 140 Alamo Plaza, Alamo. www.danvilleareachamber. com
Please email your calendar events to the Sentinel at Info@valleysentinel.com by 5pm on the 15th of the month preceding publication month. Inclusion in the calendar pages is at the sole discretion of Sentinel Newspapers, Inc.
valleysentinel.com BBB-Business Connection June 13 11:30am-12:30pm. One of the Chamber’s successful Business by Referral groups, Business Connection meets the 2nd and 4th Monday of each month to provide concrete business leads to one another. Chamber Conference Room, 117 E. Town & Country Drive. Danville. www.danvilleareachamber. com FinTechTalk June 21 Announcing FinTech Talk at Bishop Ranch Blending in an electric mix of tech startups, global financial institutions and technology investors. You will get to interact with experts, talk to practitioners and experience emerging technology and innovation around a wide variety of topics that are front of mind for executives and professionals in financial services. $200. Round House Conference Center, 2600 Camino Ramon, San Ramon. www. ivalley.co/fintechtalk.php San Ramon Chamber New and Future Member Orientation June 28 4-5pm. Please come and learn about the various Chamber services that can benefit your business. We will have some of our Ambassadors and the Chamber’s President/CEO, Stewart Bambino, here to greet you. The meeting is in a casual setting, and we have anywhere from 1 to 20 people in attendance every month. RSVP Stewart.bambino@sanramon.org. Free. Bishop Ranch 6, 2400 Camino Ramon Conference Room 158/K, San Ramon. www.sanramon.org.
CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS Danville-Alamo-Walnut Creek Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) advances equity for women and girls through advocacy, education, philanthropy and research. AAUW membership is open to all graduates of accredited four year colleges or universities and those holding an Associate Degree or equivalent. Prospective members are welcome and may contact Liz at 389-0152 for details. Visit daw-ca. aauw.net for meeting dates. Cancer workshops and support groups-Ongoing Most are free. Cancer Support Community, 3276 McNutt Avenue, Wa l n u t C r e e k . I n f o r m a t i o n / reservations call (925) 933-0107 or visit www.cancersupportcommunity. net. Fibro? CFIDS? Chronic Pain? If these are familiar to you, call about the San Ramon Valley support group for people who need support, information, classes and friendship from people who know what it’s like. We like to laugh while getting well. Call 925-837-0510. Hope Hospice Grief Support Groups–Ongoing Hope Hospice provides support to help you understand and manage grief in a way that is healthy and appropriate. Our Grief Support Center is available to all community members at minimal or no cost. Information: visit www.HopeHospice. com or call 925-829-8770. Hospice of the East Bay Support groups and workshops for adults, children and teens experiencing grief after the death of a loved one. Classes will be offered at Hospice’s Administrative Offices: 3470 Buskirk Avenue; Pleasant Hill and the Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation: 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek. Pre-registration is required for all groups and classes, except our drop-in group. To register, please call Hospice of the East Bay: (925) 887-5681. Information: www. hospiceeastbay.org
June 2016 Wind ‘n Sea Sailing Club Sailing training classes take place at members’ homes. Information: Call Jan at 925-837-3381. Forewomen Golf Association provides opportunities to play golf with other women who share the love of the game and also want to give back to our community through our charity program. FWGA is an associate club of the Northern California Golf Association (NCGA), not affiliated with any particular golf course. We offer five opportunities to play per week at East Bay courses. All levels welcome. For more information contact Cheryl Ramirez at communications@ forewomengolf.org. Overcome inappropriate compulsive sexual behavior Avenue nonprofit ministry helps men overcome inappropriate compulsive sexual behavior and helps women heal from the betrayal of their relationship. Confidential groups for men and for women. No charge / donations accepted. Call (877-326-7000). www. AvenueResource.com.
RECURRING The Walnut Creek Garden Club Meets the second Monday of each month. Meeting begins at 9:30am with community and socializing from 10:30-11:00am. You do not need to be a gardener to join the club. The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Road, Walnut Creek. Information: californiagardenclubs. com/content/walnut-creek-gardenclub or mslittle44@gmail.com Danville Rotary 12pm. Meets every Monday. Black Bear Diner, 807 Camino Ramon, Danville. Information: danvillerotary. org. San Ramon Alzheimer Support Group 7-9pm. Meets the second Monday of each month, except on holidays. Sponsored by the Alzheimer Association. People who know or are caregivers of Alzheimer victims can get information on how to help them through this difficult time in life. San Ramon Senior & Community Center, 9300 Alcosta Blvd., San Ramon. Information: 925-973-3250. Sons In Retirement (Las Trampas Branch) Monthly Luncheon 11am. Meets the third Monday of each month, except for May and December. Make new friends, participate in fun activities. Make $15 luncheon reservations by calling 925-322-1160 by the preceding Wednesday. Walnut Creek Elks Lodge, 1475 Creekside Dr, Walnut Creek. Information: visit www. Branch116.org. Tuesdays: Danville am Toastmasters 7-8:30am. Want to improve your speaking and presentation skills? Toastmasters can help! Meets every Tuesday in downtown Danville. www.4143.toastmastersclubs.org Danville/Sycamore Valley Rotary 7am. Meets every Tuesday morning. Crow Canyon Country Club, Danville. Information: dsvrotary.com. Take Off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS) Meeting Every Tuesday 8-10am. This Weight Loss Support Group provides a space for those who wish to lose weight. St. Timothy’s, 1550 Diablo Rd. 925-838-7870. San Ramon Vallley Geneological Society 10am. Meets every third Tuesday ath the LDS Church, 2949 Stone Valley Road, Alamo. http://srvgensoc.org Diablo View Toastmasters 8:15-9:15am. Meets every Tuesday. CMG Mortgage, 4th Floor Conference
Room, 3160 Crow Canyon Rd., San Ramon. Information: 4160. toastmastersclubs.org. Walnut Creek Kiwanis Club 12:10-1:30pm. Meets every Tuesday. Massimo’s Ristorante, 1604 Locust Street, Walnut Creek. Information: kiwanisofwalnutcreek.org. Walnut Creek Rotary 12:15-1:30pm. Meets every Tuesday. Heather Farms Garden Center, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: rotarywc.org. ARF Pet Loss Support Group 5:30-7pm. Meets second Tuesday of every month. Register with Vicki at 925887-5681 or vickis@hospiceeastbay. org. ARF, 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: arf.net. Divorced and Separated Workshop A new workshop series for divorced and separated people is being held on Tuesday evenings from 7- 8:30pm at St. Joan of Arc Parish, 2601 San Ramon Valley Blvd., San Ramon. Contact: Sue at smc9@sbcglobal.net. 925 -819-1809. Prostate Cancer Group 7:30–9pm. Meets 2nd Tuesday of the month. Drop-in prostate cancer group for men and their loved ones. San Ramon Regional Medical Center, South Building, West Day Room. 6001 Norris Canyon Road, San Ramon. Information: 925.933.0107 or www.twc-bayarea.org/communityprograms.html. Wednesdays: Walnut Creek Toastmasters 7-8:15pm. Meets every Wednesday. 1660 Oak Park Blvd., Pleasant Hill. Information: walnutcreek.freetoasthost. net Hospice of the East Bay Drop-in Bereavement Support 4:30-6pm, 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of every month. 3470 Buskirk Avenue; Pleasant Hill. Information: 925-8875681 or visit www.hospiceeastbay.org. Alamo Rotary 12:15pm. Meets every Wednesday. Round Hill Country Club, 3169 Roundhill Road, Alamo. Info: alamorotary.org. Danville Toastmasters Club #1785 7:30-9pm. Meets every Wednesday. R o o m W 2 0 4 a t D i a b l o Va l l e y College,1690 Watermill Road, San Ramon. Information: danvilletoastmasters1785.com. San Ramon Valley Rotary 7pm. Meets every Wednesday. Blackhawk Country Club, 599 Blackhawk Club Drive, 711 Silver Lake Drive, Danville. Info: sanramonvalleyrotary.com. Danville Lions Club 7pm. Meets the first and third Wednesday at the Black Bear Diner, 807 Camino Ramon, Danville. Information: Pat.Porter@hannaglobal.com Exchange Club of San Ramon Valley 12pm. Meets the second Wednesday of every month. Sign-in and social time begins at 11:30. Guests are welcome with lunch reservations. Faz Restaurant, 600 Hartz Ave., Danville. RSVP 925-275-2412. Info: www. srvexchangeclub.org Walnut Creek Host Lion’s Club 12:15pm. Meets the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Wednesdays of each month. Black Bear Diner, 700 Bancroft Road, Walnut Creek. Information: walnutcreeklions. org. Blue Star Moms 7-9pm. Meets the second Wednesday of every month to participate in service activities supporting sons/daughters serving in the military. Danville Veterans Memorial Building, 400 Hartz Ave. Information: bluestarmoms.org.
The Valley SenTinel Sons in Retirement (San Ramon Valley chapter) Monthly Luncheon 10:30am; Social Hour, 11:35am Meeting and lunch. Meets the 3rd Wed. of each month. $23 includes luncheon. A great opportunity to socialize. To reserve a space, please email us by Friday prior to luncheon at www.info@SIR128.com. Location: San Ramon Golf Club, 9430 Fircrest Lane, San Ramon. Information: www.SIR128.com. Diablo Valley Quilters 7-9pm. Meets the third Wednesday of every month. No charge for guests. Danville Congregational Church, 989 San Ramon Valley Blvd., Danville. Information: diablovalleyquilters.com. Veterans of Foreign Wars 7pm. Meets the third Wednesday of every month. Veterans Memorial Hall, 400 Hartz Avenue, Danville. Information: Post Commander Ernie Petagara at 925362-9806 or vfwpost75.org. Diablo Singles Dance Club 7-10pm. Meets the last Wednesday of every month. Live music, refreshments. Members $8, Guests $12. All welcome. 111N. Wiget Lane, Walnut Creek. Thursdays: San Ramon Valley Newcomers 11:30am-2pm. Meets the third Thursday of every month with a featured guest speaker at a local Tri-Valley restaurant. New and long-time adult residents are welcome. Reservations/information: susansgotbling@sbcglobal.net or www. srvnc.com. Rotary Club of San Ramon 11:45am. Meets every Thursday. Crow Canyon Country Club, 711 Silver Lake Drive, Danville. Information: sanramonrotary.org.
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Saturdays: Diablo Region of the Porsche Club of America 7:30-9am. Meets every Saturday. Buttercup Bar and Grill, 660 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek. Information: diablo-pca.org. Parkinson’s Disease Support Group 9am-12pm. Meets every 3rd Saturday. Join us to share, laugh, and learn from each other. Meeting location is the Fireside Room at Grace Presbyterian Church, 2100 Tice Valley Blvd., Walnut Creek. Contact Gregg Riehl at (925) 254-8349 or jgriehl@gmail. com. Caregivers meet at same time in Oak Room of Grace Church. Free. All are welcome. Information: Howard Zalkin at 939-4210 or Ronnie Wanetick at 933-6357. Sundays: Cars n Coffee: First Sunday of Every Month 8-10am. Blackhawk Automotive Museum is hosting Cars and Coffee for automotive enthusiasts in the parking lots of Blackhawk P l a z a . O u r p a r t n e r, S c o t t ’ s Catering, will provide coffee and other refreshments. Blackhawk Museum; 3700 Blackhawk Plaza Circle; Danville. Information: www. blackhawkmuseum.org.
Classifieds HELP WANTED
San Ramon Valley Kiwanis Club Thursday at Noon. Black Bear Diner, 807 Camino Ramon, Danville. www. kiwanis-srv.org
QA Analyst: Bach in C.S., Electronic Eng. or rltd. & 3 yrs. exp. in job offered or rltd. CV to: Bank of the West, 2527 Camino Ramon, San Ramon, CA 94583. ATTN: HR or email careers@ bankofthewest.com. EEO. Position in San Ramon, CA.
Clutterers Anonymous 7-8pm. Meets the 2nd and 4th Thursday of every month. St. Luke’s Lutheran Church room 3, 2 491 San Miguel Drive, W alnut Creek. Information: 925-736-8627.
Senior Software Engineer: B.S. in C. E., C. S., E.E., or rltd. & 7 yrs. rltd. exp. CV to: Bank of the West H.R.: careers@bankofthewest.com. EEO. Position in San Ramon, CA.
Diablo Valley Lions Club 7:30pm. Meets the 1st, 3rd, and 4th Thursday of every month. 1400 Montego Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: diablovalleyca.lionwap.org.
Volunteers Needed: If you are a fun, energetic, and creative party planner we’d welcome your help. Ruby Slippers, our annual gala auction, will be held at Diablo Country Club onFebruary 4, 2017. Come join the fun, and learn more by emailing Erin Jones at erin@ccinterfaithhousing. org. The committee will hold its kickoff meeting in August.
Fridays: Transitions-“Navigating Life’s Turning Points Together” 9-11:30am. Our group now has a new name, which has been changed from TENS to Transitions. Our mission is to encourage and support women from empty nest, to aging parents and everything in between. Community Presbyterian Church, Room 116, 222 W. El Pintado Rd., Danville. Information: Contact Donna Hill at hillmom3@ comcast.net
SERVICES Victoria Angels Senior Caregivers offers reliable, loving and dependable in-home care services.Hourly, livein or live-out. Affordable rates. Call Sarah at (925) 565-8274.
Community News & Information Danville • Blackhawk Alamo • Diablo • San Ramon Publisher/Editor-Denise Rousset Advertising-Betty Overhoff Chief Financial Officer-Jeff Gummere Graphic Designer-Laurie Prindle Auto-David & Judy Colman
925-820-6047
390 Diablo Road, Suite 145 Danville, CA 94526
www.valleysentinel.com
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The valley Sentinel
June 2016
Community Courts Help Our Justice System By Candace Andersen. Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors
How do we save costs and create a more effective justice system? Contra Costa County’s District Attorney’s Office and several local police agencies have begun a Community Courts program. The program provides a person who has been arrested or cited by the police for a low level crime, the opportunity to quickly resolve their matters without incurring a criminal “conviction.” With the approval of the District Attorney’s Office, a police agency refers individuals with low level infraction or misdemeanor offenses to the program. Invitations to participate in the Community Court are then sent to eligible offenders (typically first-time offenders). If they decide to participate, the person
is scheduled to appear at a hearing administered by Community Court Services, a private entity comprised of experienced, licensed attorneys who have been trained in the community court model. These lawyers are independent hearing officers and unaffiliated with the District Attorney’s Office or law enforcement. The offender has an opportunity to present his or her recitation of facts after hearing a summary of the offenses. At the conclusion, the hearing officer issues “directives” which can include restitution to victims, paying a fine, participating in community service, and/or attending other programs related to the offender’s specific issue, with completion required by a certain date. If the offender successfully completes the directives, the case will be deemed satisfactorily closed, with no subsequent request for prosecutorial review. The hearings are intended to encourage candor and
accountability and because these are not “judicial proceedings,” there are no court reporters or attorneys present. Community Court is a voluntary process, and at every step of the way, eligible offenders are advised that the charges for which they were arrested may be resolved either in Community Court or, should the offender not wish to participate, via the traditional criminal justice process where the case will be reviewed by the District Attorney’s Office. Offenders who choose to participate in Community Court pay an administrative fee to the hearing officers separate and apart from any fines that may later be established. Law enforcement also has a liaison or representative present during the hearings to track the progress and results of the referrals. By using this model, justice is quickly restored to victims individually and within the larger community. There are currently four
cities in Contra Costa County that have implemented the use of Community Courts with the District Attorney’s Office oversight: Walnut Creek, Concord, Pittsburg, and San Ramon. A proposed Community Court in the Lamorinda area (LafayetteMoraga-Orinda) is in the works for the summer. All of the participating cities exclude felony offenses or those cases involving violence, weapons, driving under the influence, domestic violence, child abuse, or sexual assault Community Court is an alternative to the traditional method of filing criminal cases by the District Attorney’s Office. Early accountability, plus the opportunity for other resources or social services that relate to an underlying cause for poor decisionmaking, is an incentive for eligible offenders to participate in this system. Local courts, prosecutors, and law enforcement agencies are able to use their limited resources for those defendants who belong in the
valleysentinel.com traditional criminal justice system. Community Courts encourage early resolution, address the concerns of victims and witnesses, and hold offenders accountable to their communities – a “win-win” for Contra Costa County. 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 A special thanks to Nancy Georgiou of the Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office for her contributions to this article.
San Ramon Valley Kiwanis Foundation awards $31,000 in grants each year and awarded in May
“Moms In Need” Food Drive a Huge Success the year and has, to date, A pre-Mothers Day food drive for Moms in Need sponsored by two Danville Realtors collected over three thousand diapers plus baby wipes, food and formula. Rob Rigolfi and Claudine Himan, both realtors with Danville based RE/MAX Accord, withstood a rainy day in downtown to accept donations by generous Danville residents. Rob, who founded refoodle.org to collect food on behalf of local food banks, told the Sentinel that this is his third food drive of
collected donations that have translated into 2,000 meals, and is grateful to residents who donate food and sundries. He added that the Foodbank of Contra Costa & Solano Counties serves 190,000 individuals in need each month so any and all donations are appreciated. Rob said their next drive will be around Fathers’ Day and will be notifying residents of the collection location in a couple of weeks. For more information or to reach Rob and Claudine visit www.refoodle.org.
The San Ramon Valley Kiwanis Foundation has awarded $31,000 in grants to 37 area non-profit agencies this year. The grants will be presented at the club’s annual grants Breakfast ceremony, held on June 2nd at Round Hill Country Club. Representatives of the recipient organizations made brief presentations on their programs the Kiwanis grants support. Kiwanis of San Ramon Valley has awarded nearly $750,000 through their grants program since 1995. This year, Grant amounts ranged from $250 to $2,500, including a grant to the San Ramon Valley Educational Foundation for distribution to worthy school projects that the Education Foundation identifies. First time Grant recipients this year included: Sentinels of Freedom and Party In-Kindness. Other recipients include: Assistance Leagues of Amador Valley and Diablo Valley, Bay Area Crisis Nursery, Cancer Support Community, Care Parent Network of Contra Costa ARC, Child Abuse Prevention Council of Contra Costa, Contra Costa Interfaith Housing, Court Appointed
Special Advocates (CASA), Diablo Valley Veterans Fdtn, Diablo Valley Quilters, Discovery Counseling Center of SRV, Down Syndrome Connection, Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano, Hope Hospice, Inc., Hospice of the East Bay, Kiwanis House, Loaves & Fishes, Mobility Matters (formerly Senior Helpline Services), Moment by Moment, Monument Crisis Center, Museum of the San Ramon Valley, National Coalition Against Prescription Drug Abuse, Nayeli Faith Foundation, New Day for Children, Ombundsman Services of Contra Costa, Police and Fire: The Fallen Heroes, St. Timothy’s Bicycle Program, San Ramon Library Foundation, SonRise Equestrian Foundation, Teen Esteem, The Taylor Family Foundation, and We Care Services for Children. Funds for the annual grants program are raised by the San Ramon Valley Kiwanis Foundation, primarily through the solicitation of sponsorships of the Kiwanis 4th of July Parade in Danville, which the Kiwanis Club has been organizing and conducting since 1975. Grant applications are solicited in February of
with an additional several thousand dollars held in reserve to provide emergency grants and fund additional Kiwanis community projects throughout the year. Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to changing the world one child and one community at a time. Founded in 1915, Kiwanis International is a thriving organization of service and community minded individuals who support children and young adults around the world. More than 600,000 Kiwanis improve the world around them by addressing needs in their communities and pooling their resources to address worldwide issues. Through these efforts, Kiwanis International truly is “Serving the Children of the World”. Additional information about the Kiwanis Club of the San Ramon Valley may be obtained at their website: www.kiwanis-srv.org. The club holds weekly luncheon meetings at Noon every Thursday at Black Bear Diner in Danville. All are welcome to join the club for a meeting and find out more about the organization.
AUTO March 2009 June 2016
valleysentinel.com
The 2016 Lexus IS350 4-DR SEDAN By David and Judy Colman
The descriptor that comes to mind regarding the IS350 is silk. The car, especially when finished in Ultra White, looks like a bolt of that foxy material. In operation, its 8 speed transmission and 3.5 liter V6 interact seamlessly. Inside, the cabin furnishings are unobtrusively situated for flawless operation. Comfort on demand is never more than a minor adjustment away. This plush, fast and comparatively affordable sports sedan defines the very essence of silken smoothness. You will never experience the following failings in an IS350: harsh ride, jerky shifts, engine imbalance, passenger discomfort, handling deficiency, lack of power. One look at the IS350 equipped with the F Sport Package ($3,155) might lead you to assume that its ultra low profile Dunlop Sport Max tires (225/45R18 front, 255/35R18 rear) would degrade ride comfort excessively. You would be mistaken in that assumption, because this
Lexus negotiates the worst pavement irregularities without disrupting life inside the plush cabin. Yet when it’s time to hit the after burners for a quick trip up
a back road, those gunmetal gray, split 5-spoke alloys and Dunlop Summer Tires stand up to the job. The F Sport Package includes more than just wheels and tires. You also receive ultra supportive F Sport front seats which will lock you into position for high lateral g-Force loads. Heating and Ventilation are standard inclusions on the front sport seats. Lexus also provides a perforated leather shift knob to match the open pore grips on the leather steering wheel. Aluminum pedals add a dash of racing insouciance to the mix, and a TFT instrument display brilliantly illuminates rpm and gear number information.
Best of all, the F Sport Package also allows you to tailor the behavior of this sedan to your need of the moment. If you’re just plunking around downtown the “Comfort” setting on the center console knob will do. But if you plan to put those sticky Dunlops to the test, you’ll want to turn the knob far right to recalibrate suspension and steering for sporting work. In the “Sport” mode the steering response stiffens perceptibly, while the Adaptive Variable Suspension tightens shock valving to eliminate slack. With 306hp on tap, and 8 speeds to harness that power, the IS350 is a fleet sports sedan that is fun to drive near its limit. The torque output of 277lb.ft. is sufficient to produce 0-60mph times of 4.5 seconds. This performance puts the IS in some very fast company indeed, like BMW’s newest 340i. The beauty of this IS350 is that the suspension and tires are more than worthy of the drive train’s strong output. The IS350’s various parts are well integrated into a harmonic whole.
The valley Sentinel
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If you opt for the $2,645 Navigation System, you will also receive a one-year free subscription to the newest version of the Lexus Enform Destinations service. A complimentary “App” suite is included as well, with recently upgraded selections. Also adding to the Navigation Package fun is a knockout Mark Levinson Audio System with 17 speakers, 5.1 Surround Sound, and 835 watts of output. The only demerit is that we could never figure out how to retain the “Radio” information on the dashboard’s multi-information display screen. This unit always reverted to showing the Navigation Map after the 10 second “radio” display expired. Another annoying trait is the valet system’s insistence on folding the steering wheel up and away every time you shut
For $75,000 you would be hard pressed to locate and purchase a better long distance cruiser than this IS350. For just $49,205 as fully equipped, this Lexus stands out as one of the brightest stars in the sports sedan firmament. If you’re in the market for a BMW, you owe it to yourself to explore this alluringly silky option from Japan. 2016 LEXUS IS350 4-DR. Sedan ENGINE: 3.5 liter V6, 24 Valves, DOHC, Direct & Port Injection, Variable Valve Timing HORSEPOWER: 306hp TORQUE: 277lb.-ft. FUEL CON MPG City/28 MPG Highway PRICE AS TESTED: $49,205 HYPES: Precise Apex Cutter, Ultra Luxe Interior Fittings
the IS350’s ignition down. No amount of exploring menu options for alternate settings redressed this behavior.
GRIPES: Some Anomalies in Custom Programming STAR RATING: 9 Stars Out of 10
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The Valley SenTinel
June 2016
valleysentinel.com
Helping you dig safely “ N o matter how small the job, always call 811. A call to 811 before any digging project gets your underground utilities marked for free so you can dig safely.” FRANCISCO GARCIA Gas Compliance Representative
Whether you’re a contractor working on a major job site or a homeowner planting a tree in the yard, no job is too small—always call 811 at least two working days before you dig. One simple call gets underground utility lines marked for free and helps protect you from injury and expense. Promoting the 811 program is just another step we’re taking to ensure the safety of our gas system in your community. Visit pge.com/811.
Call 811
Get marked
Dig safely
pge.com/811
“PG&E” refers to Pacific Gas and Electric Company, a subsidiary of PG&E Corporation. ©2016 Pacific Gas and Electric Company. All rights reserved. Paid for by PG&E shareholders.
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