The Valley Sentinel_July 2016

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Alamo • Danville • Blackhawk • Diablo • San Ramon

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always for the community VOL 21 NO 56 July 2016

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SPOTLIGHT

At the May Board of Directors’ meeting of the Discovery Counseling Center, Chris McCrary and Eric Miller of Katalyst Events and Marty Breen of Forward Motion Sports presented to the Board two checks totaling $7000 which were the proceeds from this year’s Devil Mountain Run and a donation from Forward Motion Sports. In awarding the check, Mr. McCrary noted that this year’s race brought out more participants than in the past four years, doubling the number of runners since the race was

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On July 4th, The Kiwanis Club of the San Ramon Valley once again entertained thousands with their Danville Independence Day parade. This is a major fundraiser, which allowed the club to award $31,000 in grants to 37area non-profit agencies this year. A great turnout to enjoy the best that Danville has to offer.

Meet the American Kestrel–the smallest raptor in the U.S. By James Hale

The American Kestrel or Sparrow Hawk may be Contra Costa County’s most common and widespread breeding raptor, even more common than the Redtailed Hawk. This small falcon is found in grasslands, blue oak and valley oak woodlands, marshes, vacant lots, and along freeways and roadside habitats. It is often seen perched on telephone wires or hovering, in search of prey, alongside roadways throughout the county. The American Kestrel frequently pumps its tail up and down while perched, especially when alighting, and then bobs its head up and down as it searches for prey or checks out potential threats or enemies. Its breeding range extends from Alaska across Canada to Nova Scotia, and south through the United States, Mexico, and Central America, to

the southern tip of South America. Recent DNA analysis suggests that the American Kestrel is more closely related to the larger American falcons such as the Peregrine and Prairie falcons, and not the European and African true kestrels. Seventeen subspecies are recognized based on size, plumage, and vocalizations. American Kestrels are popular birds used in beginning falconry. The American Kestrel is the smallest raptor in

the United States. It is both sexually dimorphic and dichromatic. The female is slightly larger than the male, being typically 10% or 15% larger, within a subspecies. Males have beautiful slate bluegrey wings with black spots, and white undersides with black barring. The back is russet or rufous, with barring on the lower half. The belly and flanks are white with black spotting. The tail is also rufous, with a white or rufous tip and a black subterminal band. Females lack the slate blue-

grey wings of the male, having dark brown barring on rufous instead. The creamy to buff undersides of females have heavy brown streaking. The female American Kestrel tail is diagnostically different than the males, being rufous in color with numerous narrow dark black bars. Both sexes have double black stripes on a white face, giving them a hooded appearance. The head is white with a bluish-grey crown in both sexes. On each side of the white or orangish nape are two black “eye‘ spots, thought to function as “false eyes,” and to protect the bird from potential attackers from behind. Three See KESTREL page 4

This month’s Special Section:

Senior Services pages 9-11


ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT dining out • music • art • theater • fun events

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The Valley Sentinel

Surf’s Up! Now - August 18 Surf’s Up will showcase the sea and surf themed artwork of 15 ocean and sun loving artists who hail from the tropics of Hawaii to secluded Marin

County Beach Towns to the famous California Surf Town of Santa Cruz. $5 donation appreciated. Village Theatre, 233 Front Street Danville. 925 314-3400 or villagetheatreshows. com.

July 10 
Summer Concert Series 2016 - Superhuey
 5:30pm. Huey Lewis and the News Tribute Band. Tax & Bring shipping Available for the reduced price theof family for a perfectincluded summer $90! evening in Central Park. Enjoy Turn your yard waste great music, talk with friends and kitchen scraps into and neighbors, bring a picnic nutrient-rich compost and let the kids enjoy dancing with the easy-to-use barefoot in the grass. This is one Soilsaver Composter. of life’s simple pleasures, relax and enjoy the moment. Bring Register for a a picnic, blanket and/or lawn FREE workshop online chairs. Wine, beer, soda and snacks available for purchase. Order today! www.recyclesmart.org San Ramon Central Park, 12501 Alcosta Blvd, San Ramon. www. Compost bins available to residents of Danville, Lafayette, Moraga, Orinda, sanramon.ca.gov/parks/events/ San Ramon, Walnut Creek and unincorporated Central Contra Costa County. summer_concerts.htm Sponsored by RecycleSmart. *As long as supplies last.

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10th Annual Chevron Family Theatre Festival July 16 10am-4pm. The Chevron Family Theatre Festival will return this summer to the Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek for the annual event featuring exciting new performers and popular favorites. The Festival will open at 10 am with a Ribbon Cutting ceremony, birthday cake and Prince and Princess Walk. Then free events inside and outside the Center along with ticketed shows will run through 4 pm. $5. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr. Walnut Creek. Information and tickets call 925-943-SHOW (7469) or visit www.lesherartscenter.org.

Dixieland Jazz July 16 1:30-4:30pm. On the 3rd Saturday of every month you can enjoy the music of the Devil Mountain Jazz Band. Bring your own beverages, snacks and a friend or two! There is a large dance floor and lots of free parking. $15. Grange Hall, 743 Diablo Road, Danville. Information visit www.jazznut.com or phone. 625-2707.

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Dillon Magh Adhair Irish Dance Recital July 16 7pm, July 17 2pm. Enjoy an evening of Irish dance with the 2014 World gold medalists the Dillon Magh Adhair Academy of Irish dance–based here in the East Bay. $15/$25. Village Theatre, 233 Front Street Danville. 925 314-3400 or villagetheatreshows. com.

July 16, 2016 Hula Halau ‘O Naua ‘Ote ‘A ‘Api – Hoike 5pm.
Dougherty Valley Performing Arts Center, San Ramon Central Park, 12501 Alcosta Blvd, San Ramon. www.sanramon.ca.gov/parks/ theater

For more information about the 2016 Kiwanis parade visit www.kiwanis-srv.org

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Summer Concert Series 2016 The Fabulous Cruisetones
Oldies Dance Party July 17
 5:30pm. San Ramon Central Park, 12501 Alcosta Blvd, San Ramon Bring the family for a perfect summer evening in Central Park. Enjoy great music, talk with friends and neighbors. Wine, beer, soda and snacks available for purchase. www.sanramon. ca.gov/parks/events/summer_ concerts.htm Walnut Creek Concert Band “Pops” July 19 7:30pm.The “Pops” concert features the depth and talent of the members of the Walnut Creek concert Band as they present a program of player favorites from light classics, traditional marches, patriotic selections and a few surprises. $17. Hofmann Theatre, Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr. Walnut Creek. Information and tickets call 925-943SHOW (7469) or visit www. lesherartscenter.org. That’s Amore! A Tribute to Dean Martin July 22 7:30-9pm. That’s Amore! is a live musical tribute to Dean Martin starring Chris Gardner. The World Premiere Musical Event will feature a full 16 piece orchestra and special guests. Popular songs performed are Ain’t That A Kick in the Head, Volare, Everybody Loves Somebody, Sway, That’s Amore and many more! $35. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr. Walnut Creek. Information and tickets call 925-943-SHOW (7469) or visit www.lesherartscenter.org.

Anderson & Roe Piano Duo July 22 7:30pm. Known for their adrenalized performances, original compositions, and notorious music videos, Greg Anderson and Elizabeth Joy Roe are revolutionizing the piano duo experience for the 21st century. Described as “the intense synchronization of genius” (ThirdCoast Digest) and “the most dynamic duo of this generation” (San Francisco Classical Voice), the Anderson & Roe Piano Duo aims to make classical music a relevant and powerful force around the world. $29. Hofmann Theatre, Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr. Walnut Creek. Information and tickets call 925-943SHOW (7469) or visit www. lesherartscenter.org.

Leslie Odom Jr. July 23 8-9:30pm. Be in the room where it happens when Feinstein’s presents Leslie Odom, Jr. to the San Francisco Bay Area for his solo concert debut. Odom created the part of Aaron Burr in Lin Manuel Miranda’s juggernaut Hamilton at the Public Theater and received a 2016 Tony Award nomination for his performance in the role on Broadway. Hofmann Theatre, Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr. Walnut Creek. Information and tickets call 925-943-SHOW (7469) or visit www.lesherartscenter.org. Summer Concert Series 2016 Busta Groove -
R&B, Pop and Soul
 July 24
 5:30pm. Bring the family for a perfect summer evening in Central Park. Enjoy great music, talk with friends and neighbors. Bring a picnic, blanket and/ or lawn chairs. Wine, beer, soda and snacks available for purchase. San Ramon Central Park, 12501 Alcosta Blvd, San Ramon. www.sanramon.ca.gov/ parks/events/summer_concerts. htm Salimpour School Belly Dance Certification Exam Recital July 24 7:15-8pm. Suhaila Salimpour’s Certification Program includes five levels. Each level builds on the previous level, providing specialized training within a logical, cumulative sequence. Over the full course of study, students are trained in dance technique, finger cymbals, rhythm identification, history,


ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT dining out • music • art • theater • fun events

valleysentinel.com music, culture, improvisation, performance, choreography, teaching skills, etc. $16.50. George and Sonja Vukasin Theatre, Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr. Walnut Creek. Information and tickets call 925-943-SHOW (7469) or visit www.lesherartscenter.org.

Movies Under the Stars Inside Out July 29 9-10:30pm. Bring your picnic and watch the stars come out over Walnut Creek. Stay for the movie and you’ll see some pretty impressive stars on our screen, too! Movies begin at dusk. Please do not bring pets. $2 suggested donation. Heather Farm Park, 301 N San Carlos Dr Walnut Creek, www.walnutcreekrec.org Beauty and The Beast Jr. July 29 7-8:30pm July 30 2-3:30pm Join Lamorinda Theatre Academy students as they retell the story of how Belle, with the help of the enchanted objects,

July 2016 learns to love the frightening Beast. This fairytale classic shows us the amazing power of love, friendship, and never judging a book by its cover. Beauty and the Beast, Jr is a family favorite, perfect for all ages! $13. Del Valle Theater, 1963 Tice Valley Blvd Walnut Creek. Information and tickets call 925-943-SHOW (7469) or visit www.lesherartscenter.org.

Geri Allen Quartet July 30 5pm July 31 8pm Celebrated pianist Geri Allen is a Guggenheim Fellow and NAACP Award recipient. A respected composer and educator, Ms. Allen’s many honors also include the 2014 Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Jazz Legacy Award and has released 20 albums as a leader. Her group will feature alto sax legend and Grammy nominee John Handy. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr. Walnut Creek. Information

and tickets call 925-943SHOW (7469) or visit www. lesherartscenter.org.

The Valley Sentinel

DANVILLE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PRESENTS...

I Can Do That Broadway Showcase July 30 2pm-4:30pm, 8pm9:30pm. I Can Do That is a non-profit youth theatre company dedicated to creating professional, full-scale musicals by combining quality training with imagination, freedom, and fun. Village Theatre, 233 Front Street Danville. 925 314-3400 or villagetheatreshows.com.

Summer Concert Series 2016 The Fundamentals - Old School Party Band 
 July 31
 5:30pm. Bring the family for a perfect summer evening in Central Park. Enjoy great music, talk with friends and neighbors. Bring a picnic, blanket and/or lawn chairs. Wine, beer, soda and snacks available for purchase. San Ramon Central Park, 12501 Alcosta Blvd, San Ramon. www. sanramon.ca.gov/parks/events/ summer_concerts.htm

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The Valley Sentinel

DONATION from page 1 resurrected in 2012. He pointed out that the Devil Mountain Run is a healthy family event that reinforces the important relationship between physical and mental health. Board Chair, Jackie Fineberg, thanked Katalyst Events and Forward Motion for their commitment to the community and for the critical support that they have given to Discovery. Ms. Fineberg

said, “Discovery is not only deeply grateful for the generous monetary contribution, but also for the opportunity that the Devil Mt. Run gives us to get the word out to the community about the resources available at Discovery Counseling Center. The success of the Devil Mt. Run helps ensure that this community knows that affordable and high quality counseling is only one phone call away”.

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July 2016

valleysentinel.com Advertorial

How to Prevent Cancer By Gautam Prasad, M.D., Ph.D.

When I see men and women who were diagnosed with cancer, they frequently ask, “why me?” Many tell me that they have led healthy lifestyles including engaging in regular exercise, not smoking, and drinking in moderation. Unfortunately, cancer is the result of mutations in our cells and cannot be fully prevented. However, there are several things you can do to improve the odds in your favor: 1. Undergo routine screening tests as directed by your primary care physician. These include annual mammograms for women and annual rectal exams for men. In addition, a colonoscopy every 10 years is recommended. Many times these tests can find precancerous conditions, which can be treated with minimal side effects and much better outcomes. 2. Eat healthy with an emphasis on fresh fruit and KESTREL from page 1 basic vocalizations are recognized and diagnostic. They are the “kiily”, the “whine” and the “chitter”. The “Killy” call is most commonly heard and is usually delivered as a series when the Kestrel is upset or excited. The “whine” call is primarily used during feeding, and sometimes during copulation. The “chitter” is used between male and female birds during interactions such as courtship feeding, copulation, and feeding of nestlings. American Kestrels reach sexual maturity rapidly by their first spring. Pair bonds are strong and often permanent. Males perform elaborate “sky dances” and courtship displays to attract mates, and to advertise their territory. American Kestrels are cavity nesters, preferring natural cavities such as those found in trees and cliffs. Occasionally, woodpecker holes and abandoned stick nests of larger birds such as crows and hawks are used. They have been recorded nesting on cliff ledges, building

vegetables. Colorful fruits and vegetables are full of important vitamins, minerals and anti-oxidants. While you can get some of these nutrients by taking multivitamins, they cannot replace raw fruits and vegetables. 3. Exercise regularly. While you don’t have to go to an expensive gym, it is important to regularly engage in physical activity. You can jog, speed walk, ride a bike, or swim at least three times per week for 30 minutes or more. 4. Don’t start smoking or, if you do smoke, quit as soon as possible. Smoking is a causative factor in numerous cancers including those of the lung, head and neck. Even if you smoke heavily, quitting dramatically reduces your risk of cancer. 5. Ask your family members about their own personal experiences with cancer. If you have had multiple family members with cancer it is possible that you may have a genetic disorder that predisposes you to cancer. If that is the case,

tops, in abandoned cactus cavities, and utility poles. I have observed American Kestrels nesting in utility poles and commercial signs in the Park and Shop, Sunvalley Mall, and Willows shopping centers in Concord, as well as Broadway Plaza in Walnut Creek. American Kestrels will readily take to nesting boxes properly located in backyards. Three to seven eggs are laid approximately 24- 72 hours apart. The white to cream colored eggs are covered in brown and grey splotching. Incubation lasts about 30 days, with the male contributing about 20% of the time. Hatching takes place over several days with the nestlings quickly reaching adult weight after 16-17 days. Nestlings fledge in 29-31 days and are able to leave the nest. American Kestrels feed largely on grasshoppers, dragonflies, lizards, rodents, and small birds. Snakes, bats, and squirrels are sometimes taken. Their foraging behavior utilizes optimum energy conservation strategies. Life expectancy in the wild is low, only three to five years. The

your primary care physician can recommend specific preventative measures or screening tests. Otherwise healthy patients sometimes ask me why they can’t simply get a “scan” (CT or MRI) to see if they have cancer. The problem is that these scans, if done indiscriminately, very rarely find cancer but often show benign “lumps” or “masses.” Biopsying these masses to rule out cancer can be painful and cause numerous side effects. For instance, if you have a mass in your lung and it is biopsied with a needle it can cause your lung to collapse and require you stay in the hospital with a tube in your chest. This is why doctors must remain judicious in ordering scans. While you cannot fully prevent cancer, the above steps are proactive measures you can take to improve your odds. Dr. Gautam Prasad is a Radiation Oncologist with Epic Care, a group of experts in the diagnosis and comprehensive treatment of cancer and blood disorders. www.epic-care.com

oldest banded wild bird was 11 years and 7 months. Captive birds may live close to 20 years. Although the American Kestrel is likely the most abundant falcon in North America with an estimated 1.2 million pairs, some dramatic regional declines have been identified. Humans account for most deaths by roadkills, direct killing, wind farms, transmission pole and building strikes, and habitat alteration. Environmental contaminants, particularly industrial flame retardants, can cause immunomodulation, or altered immune response. James M. Hale is a wildlife biologist, ethnobiologist, and ecological consultant based in Contra Costa County. Please visit his website at www.dochale.com.


valleysentinel.com

July 2016

Advertorial

Don’t let Sciatica keep you out of the game this summer… By Dr. Niele Maimone, DC

The condition known as Sciatica is one of the most common conditions that we treat at Align Healing Center. Some of the typical symptoms of Sciatica are sharp pain in the low back and/or buttocks accompanied by numbness, tingling, aching or burning down the back of the leg. In severe circumstances, weakness in the leg may also be seen. The Sciatic Nerve is large and travels down the back of the leg to the foot. The nerve is buried deep within the muscles of the buttock and leg making it difficult to treat with common physical therapy methods. The Sciatic Nerve is composed of several smaller nerves and originates

from the low back. It passes under the piriformis muscle (underneath the main buttock muscles) on its way down the leg. Irritation of the Sciatic Nerve at any point along its path is commonly known as “Sciatica”. Understanding Sciatica Let’s talk about nerves for a moment. Nerves are the electrical wiring of the human body. They carry the signals that allow us to move, feel, digest, detoxify, respond to our environment, and so much more. Plain and simple, if the nerves do not work the body will not work. That being said, it is important to understand that unlike other tissues, the primary blood supply to nerve tissue is actually located WITHIN the nerve itself. So, if a nerve becomes impinged or compromised, so does the blood supply to

the nerve. Without proper blood supply, the nerve does not receive the energy and nutrition that are needed for the nerve to heal itself. Over time neural impingement leads to a painful chronic condition called Neuropathy. The definition of neuropathy is a disease or injury affecting nerve cells. The common symptoms of Neuropathy include sharp pain, burning, muscular weakness, numbness or tingling either at the site of the nerve injury or wherever the nerve travels. The condition known as Sciatica is a form of Neuropathy that specifically affects the Sciatic Nerve. What can I do to relieve my Sciatica without drugs or surgery? Since 1999 Align Healing Center has been offering many different modalities to heal Sciatica. We have

Supervision, swim lessons and sunscreen help keep children safe around water By Priscilla Kong Now that it’s summer, everyone wants to jump in the pool, but not everyone knows how to stay safe around water. Water safety is simple but extremely important, as drowning is one of the leading causes of accidental death for children. Fortunately, there are many ways to keep kids safe while swimming. Supervision is of the utmost importance, whether children are swimming in a public pool, a lake, or the ocean. Young children need special attention, since they can drown in as little as two inches of water. Never leave children unattended when they are in or around water, and give them all your attention. Put phones away, and make sure children are always in sight. Swim only in areas with lifeguard supervision in case of accidents, and, when several adults are present, designate a “Water Watcher” to monitor children. Adults can take turns watching to make sure children are safe. According to American Red Cross, one of the best ways to keep children safe is to teach them to swim. Swimming classes are beneficial to everyone, even adults, and children should start learning when they are 4 years old. However, even after

taking classes, children are still at risk for drowning, so make sure to keep an eye on them. No matter how skilled a child is at swimming, he or she should not be allowed to swim alone. Have children swim with an adult or other experienced swimmer, and stay within arm’s reach of young children. Children who cannot swim should wear life jackets when possible, especially when boating or swimming in natural bodies of water. Although life jackets can help prevent accidents, do not rely on them alone. Additionally, be extra careful when swimming in oceans, lakes, and rivers, since they often have colder temperatures, currents, or hidden dangers. If caught in a strong current, do not try to swim against it. Instead, swim parallel to shore until the current slows down, and then swim to shore. While swimming, children also face dangers from the sun. Reapply sunscreen often to avoid sunburn or sun damage. Also, make sure to drink plenty of water in order to prevent dehydration, which can happen easily when children are moving around and perspiring. Water with temperatures under 70° (20°) should also be avoided. Staying in cold

water for extended periods of time will lower body temperature. KidsHealth suggests sticking to water between 82°-86° (28°30°), especially for younger children and babies, who are at a higher risk for hypothermia. If children are shivering, take them out of the water, dry them off, and wrap them in a towel or blanket. Accidents can also happen at home in backyard pools or hot tubs. In households with young children, install barriers around all bodies of water. Make sure your barriers are at least 4 feet high and have gates that open outward and self-latch. Safety covers and alarms can also help prevent children from drowning. Finally, learning CPR can save the lives of both children and adults. Hospitals, fire departments, and recreation departments all offer CPR training, which is extremely helpful in emergencies. Although swimming has its own risks, families can still enjoy the water by following these steps and taking precautions. Stay safe, and have fun this summer. For more information about staying safe in water, visit www.redcross.org or http://kidshealth.org.

The Valley Sentinel found that a combination of Class IV laser therapy and spinal decompression offer outstanding results in healing stubborn Sciatica. Class IV Laser Therapy allows the practitioner to stimulate healing within the damaged tissue by delivering the necessary energy directly to the injured area. This creates an optimal healing environment that reduces pain and inflammation, swelling, muscle spasms and stiffness. In addition to laser therapy we implement spinal decompression to restore spinal disc health. Decompression works by gently stretching the spine, creating a vacuum effect which can restore disc height and even reduce the severity of bulging disc conditions associated with chronic pain and neurological symptoms. We have found laser and decompression therapy

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to be most beneficial for patients with pinched nerves, arthritis, herniated discs, and degenerative disc disease. This unique combination of noninvasive therapy offers a chance for realizing a permanent cure. The treatment is finite and typically lasts for about a month. This eliminates the long-term care commitment forced upon patients by other symptomatic sciatica treatments. With proper care and rehabilitation of your spine and nervous system you can be back to your healthy self quickly! Dr. Niele Maimone, DC of Align Healing Center in Danville, CA has been active in natural health & wellness since 1999. For more information or to set up a consult call 925.362.8283 or visit www. alignhealingcenter.com.

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valleysentinel.com page 6 The valley Sentinel

Recreation Opportunities in Alamo

July 2016 July 2016 Advertorial

3 Steps to Financially Responsible Parenting By Robert Cucchiaro

By Steve Mick

The Alamo Municipal Advisory Council (MAC) sponsors an extensive recreation program both for Alamo residents and for people in neighboring communities. Some of the most popular and wellattended events are the concert series held at Livorna Park on selected Fridays during the summer. The final concert is scheduled for July 29 and features the group Mixed Nuts. They offer popular music selections that span several decades. Another recreation event that has received wide acclaim is the Movie Under the Stars. The next movie will be on Friday, July 22 at Livorna Park. The movie will be Minions and will start at 8:45 PM. Bring the entire family and be sure to bring blankets, chairs, a flashlight and a variety of munchies. There is a distinct aura of fun and nostalgia in going to an open-air movie. Many adult Alamo residents may fondly remember going to the drive-in movies with their families. The drive-in

has all but disappeared from The American Landscape. However, if you bring your family to a presentation of Movies Under the Stars, it will create memories that will last a lifetime. Bocce Anyone? Ground has finally been broken and construction has begun on the Livorna Park Bocce Ball Courts. If you happen to visit the park and look at the construction site it will seem that a very large portion of the park is being impacted. Sod has been torn up and the surrounding area has been bulldozed. However, most of the impacted area has been reserved for construction equipment and other staging requirements. Once the courts are finished, new landscaping will be installed and the area will be as good as new. The projected completion date for the new courts is late September 2016. 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.

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It’s that exciting time of year when parents get to watch their kids celebrate the next milestone in their lives, graduation. Whether that’s high school, college, or even kindergarten - watching your son or daughter graduate makes you sit back and think about how fast time goes by. As a parent with kids at multiple schools and after school activities, I can attest to how the time flies by. Perhaps this is why many parents intend to act financially responsibly, but fail to get around to certain items on that list. A recent Wall Street Journal article revealed that 7 in 10 college seniors graduating this spring borrowed for their educations and they’re carrying an average $37,172 in debt. I suppose this fact is often a direct reflection of mom and dad’s good intent to save for their kid’s college, but as the years flew by the intent was never acted upon. Summer is here and now is the time to slow down and ask whether or not you are doing what you can to be a financially responsible parent. To help you get started, here are 3 quick things I think every parent should be doing to help their kids: 1. Protect your income–Without your ability to earn a living, paying for your kid’s college will be difficult if not impossible. You need life insurance in the event of pre-mature death and disability insurance in

the event you are physically unable to work. The good news is you can afford to protect your income by purchasing an inexpensive term life insurance policy. In fact, if you have kids there is really no excuse not be insured and protect your family’s ability to stay in your home should something happen to you. Disability insurance is more expensive because the odds of one becoming disabled are higher than you might think. The good news is that some employers offer coverage as do some professional associations. Start your search there and if you still need more coverage, contact an independent Financial Planner. 2. Set up a college savings plan and fund it automatically–Every state offers their own version of what’s called a Section 529 plan and California’s plan is run by TIAA-CREF. The bottom line is this, you don’t get a tax deduction when you contribute to these plans but if the money is used for qualified college expenses, your investments inside of these plans can grow tax free. These plans are a great vehicle to receive birthday and Christmas gifts that grandparents and other relatives want to make and you can set up automatic monthly savings direct from your checking account. 3. Teach financial literacy from a very early age–Last but not least, one of the financial components every incoming college freshman should know about in additional to student loans is credit card debt. I would suggest waiting until

your son or daughter is on their way to the dorms to teach them about financial responsibility is a not a good idea. Start with an allowance for your kids at age 5, and tie that allowance to daily or weekly chores. As the items they want to purchase increase in value over the years, offer to split the cost with them and have them use their allowance money to fund their half. This is a great way to teach them the value of a dollar and to be invested in the items they purchase and own. Start these habits now and when they are in college you won’t need to teach them why credit cards are bad. If this is a topic that interests you, there are plenty of resources out there including a great book by Rob Lieber titled The Opposite of Spoiled. At Summit Wealth we offer a free financial literacy program for our client’s children, regardless of their age. If you are interested in learning more, give us a call or send us an email for your free initial consultation. Robert Cucchiaro is a Certified Financial Planner and a registered tax preparer. He is a Partner and owner of Summit Wealth & Retirement, a financial planning firm that has been serving Danville for 30 years. Rob specializes in retirement, investment, tax, and estate planning. www. summitwealthandretirement. com

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valleysentinel.com

July 2016

Made in the Shade By Beverly Lane, East Bay Regional Parks District

Even on the hottest summer days, there are still plenty of places where you can escape the heat in the East Bay Regional Parks. One of the best is Redwood Regional Park in Oakland, where a network of trails winds through beautiful redwood groves. A park entrance that leads to lots of shady strolls is located off Redwood Road about two miles past the intersection with Skyline Boulevard in Oakland. Or you can access Roberts Regional Recreation Area from Skyline Boulevard, about a mile up the hill from Joaquin Miller Road. Either way, there are lots of hiking options that lead through the woods to panoramic views of East Contra Costa.

Carousel horse at Tilden Regional Park Another good bet is Tilden Regional Park near Berkeley. Trails from the Environmental Education Center lead into the Tilden Nature Area and up Wildcat Creek Gorge. The EEC and adjacent Little Farm schedule all kinds of events and activities highlighting the park’s natural and cultural history. The center is located at the north end of Tilden’s

Central Park Drive. For information, call 510-5442233. Point Pinole Regional Shoreline in Richmond is a good refuge on a hot summer day. The park’s extensive eucalyptus groves provide shade, and San Pablo Bay provides cooling breezes.

an amphitheater for nature programs, a pier for viewing Delta wildlife, and an area from which you can launch kayaks for water-borne exploration. For information, call 510-544-3050. Castle Rock Regional Recreation Area in Walnut Creek has a swimming pool, picnic grounds, and the Old Stage Road Trail, which leads up shaded Pine Canyon alongside Pine Creek. The spectacular Castle Rocks

The valley Sentinel drinking water available in park interiors. • Wear a broadbrimmed hat to keep cool and avoid sunburn. And don’t forget the sunscreen. • Obtain a park map, either from the district web site or from information panels at staging areas. • At swim areas, please cooperate with any instructions from lifeguards, rangers, police or other emergency personnel.

page 7

Contractors will be resurfacing 16 miles of the Iron Horse Regional Trail from the Dublin BART station to Rudgear Road in Walnut Creek this summer. The work is part of the park district’s ongoing maintenance of its extensive trail system, which includes more than 1,250 miles of trails.Work will be accomplished in stages, so watch for signs indicating detours when sections of the trail are closed.

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Redwood Regional Park in Oakland The Point Pinole entrance is on Giant Highway. Besides hiking trails, the park has lots of picnic areas, a children’s play structure, and a fishing pier. For beautiful views of Carquinez Strait and Benicia, check out the new George Miller Regional Trail at Carquinez Strait Regional Shoreline. Closed to motor vehicle traffic, the trail is a mile and a half link between two sections of Carquinez Scenic Drive. You can access it from Port Costa in the west or Martinez in the east. The trail is paved, mostly flat, and wheelchair accessible. Bring binoculars for bird watching and ship spotting. Although East Contra Costa can be very hot in summer, you’ll find a Deltacooled oasis at Big Break Regional Shoreline in Oakley. Located at 69 Big Break Road off Oakley’s Main Street, the park has a spiffy new visitor center, a walkon relief map of the Delta,

View of Carquinez Strait from Franklin Ridge

overlook the trail and are nesting grounds for peregrine falcon. To encourage falcon propagation, the rocks are closed to public access through July 31. Please abide by warning signs and enjoy the rocks from a distance. Las Trampas Regional Wilderness in San Ramon is known for its steep, strenuous hikes, but there are some short and shady alternatives. One is the Bollinger Canyon Loop Trail, which starts at the staging area at the end of Bollinger Canyon Road and ascends through an oak and bay grove for a mile or so. After the first mile it gets very steep, so only the energetic need continue. There’s also a nice short walk on the Ringtail Cat Trail through the woods along a stream, starting at the trailhead at the end of Hemme Avenue. After the first half mile, the trail is still in the shade, but ascends steeply to the Madrone Trail. You can obtain trail maps of all these and other regional parks by visiting the district’s web site at www. ebparks.org. And besides the pool at Castle Rock, there are swimming opportunities available at a dozen other district parks and beaches. In conclusion, here are some things to remember when you venture out for summer fun: • Take plenty of water. Once you have left the trailheads and picnic grounds, there usually is no

Water is a natural resource that we need to survive and now has become a restricted commodity due to the past drought-stricken years in the bay area. Public awareness of this problem has grown and the community understands the importance of water conservation for present and future needs. Now a new program coming into the area may provide some help in conserving drinking water. In 1995, the cities of Dublin and San Ramon joined forces with the East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) and created the San Ramon Valley Recycled Water Program (SRVRWP). The partnership was designed to address and provide an irrigation system using 100% recycled water. This effort will help conserve the public drinking water and make use of recycling systems already in place. The new design and plan started implementation in 2006 when the first phase pump station was completed in the City of Dublin. The Dublin/ San Ramon Services District (DSRSD) will supply recycled water to Dublin, San Ramon and soon in parts of the Town

of Danville. Future phases will be incorporated in other parts of Town, as well as the Blackhawk area. The first phase coming to Danville will come through San Ramon on Crow Canyon Road making a left turn on El Capitan and connecting to the irrigation system at the Crow Canyon Country Club. Work is expected to start in the southbound lanes of El Capitan to Oneida Circle the week of May 27, 2016 and should be completed in a five day timeframe. Underground work starts at 9:00 a.m. and will be completed by 3:30 p.m. each day of construction. Southbound traffic on El Capitan will be allowed to access Crow Canyon Road with a single lane of travel during the pipeline installation. The new system when completed will service large irrigation customers, golf courses, landscaped road median sections, schools and Home Owners Associations throughout the local area. For more information, contact Civil Engineer Assistant Guillermo Santolaya at (925) 314-3352 orgsantolaya@danville.ca.gov.

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Sentinels of Freedom, the non-profit organization that provides multi-facet scholarships to wounded and injured veterans counts among its scholarship recipients a number of special veterans: members of the HERO Corps. The Human Exploitation Rescue Operation (HERO) Child-Rescue Corps is a program formed from a partnership between the U.S. Immigration and Customs enforcement (ICE), Homeland Security Investigations (HIS), U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM), and the National Association to Protect Children. The HERO program trains wounded and injured Special Operations Forces in computer forensics and law enforcement skills, to assists federal agents in fighting online child sexual exploitation. Program members go through a yearlong, hands-on training in protecting child victims.

Of the more the 200 scholarship recipients that are part of the Sentinels of Freedom program, 10 are part of the HERO program. One of those scholarship recipients is Tom Block, an Army veteran from the 75th Ranger Regiment. Block was injured in 2013, injured by a suicide bomber in Afghanistan. Block and the others in the Sentinels program have returned home and continued to serve this nation. “I felt it was a great way to extend the mission I had in special operations. It’s a mission of servitude and going after bad guys, and I like doing that and wanted to continue doing that,” explains Block. “We truly believe, that veterans never stop serving,” says CEO of Sentinels of Freedom, Mike Conklin. “The work that our scholarship recipients are doing in the HERO program is an example of that. Despite their wounds and injuries, they strive to

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Senior Living valleysentinel.com

page 9

July 2016

Let Medicare Help You Stop Smoking By Cate Kortzeborn

It’s never too late to quit smoking. While it’s best to stop as early as possible, kicking the smoking habit at any age will enhance the length and quality of your life. As soon as you stop, your body begins to repair the damage caused by smoking. You’ll also save money and you won’t have to run outside your home or office every time the urge to light up hits you! Medicare now covers counseling sessions to help you stop smoking, even if you haven’t been diagnosed with an illness caused by tobacco use. You pay nothing for smoking cessation counseling, as long as you get it from a doctor or other qualified provider who accepts Medicare reimbursement.

Many state Medicaid programs cover smoking cessation services as well. Smoking tobacco can cause many diseases, including heart disease, respiratory diseases, and lung cancer -- the leading cause of cancer death in the U.S. More than 56 million Americans still smoke tobacco, but quitting can reduce your risk of getting these diseases. So if you have Medicare or Medicaid, make a note to talk with your doctor about quitting. Medicare covers eight face-to-face smoking cessation counseling sessions during a 12-month period. What happens in these sessions? Your doctor may follow the “5 A’s” approach: ask patients about their smoking habits; advise them to quit; assess their willingness to quit; assist their attempts to quit; and arrange follow-up. To help you get off and stay off tobacco, your

physician may prescribe one of seven antismoking drugs currently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Medicare often covers such medications under its Part D prescription drug program. What are the health benefits of not smoking? Here’s what you’ll experience, according to the American Lung Association: 20 minutes after quitting: Your heart rate drops to a normal level. 12 hours after quitting: The carbon monoxide level in your blood drops to normal. 2 weeks to 3 months after quitting: Your risk of having a heart attack begins to drop. Your lung function begins to improve. 1 to 9 months after quitting: Your coughing and shortness of breath decrease. 1 year after quitting:

Your added risk of coronary heart disease is half that of a smoker’s. 5 to 15 years after quitting: Your risk of having a stroke is reduced to that of a nonsmoker’s. Your risk of getting cancer of the mouth, throat, or esophagus is half that of a smoker’s. 10 years after quitting: Your risk of dying from lung cancer is about half that of a smoker’s. Your risk of getting bladder cancer is half that of a smoker’s. Your risk of getting cervical cancer or cancer of the larynx, kidney, or pancreas decreases. 15 years after quitting: Your risk of coronary heart disease is the same as that of a nonsmoker. I also want to mention that Medicare covers screening for lung cancer with Low Dose Computed Tomography. To qualify, you must:

• Be age 55-77; • Be either a current smoker or have quit smoking within the last 15 years; • Have a tobacco smoking history of at least 30 “pack years” (an average of one pack a day for 30 years); • Not have any signs or symptoms of lung cancer; • Get a written order from your physician or qualified non-physician practitioner. You pay nothing for this screening if your doctor or other qualified provider accepts Medicare reimbursement. For more information on kicking the habit, visit http://www.cancer.gov/ about-cancer/causesprevention/risk/tobacco/ help-quitting-fact-sheet. 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).


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valleysentinel.com

July 2016

Medicare’s National Mail-Order Program for Diabetes Testing Supplies: What You Need to Know your current glucose monitor National mail-order If you, a friend, or a loved one has Original Medicare and uses diabetes testing supplies, you should know that Medicare is continuing its National MailOrder Program that helps you get quality supplies while saving money. This program includes all parts of the U. S., including the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, and American Samoa. Using a contract supplier Under the program, you need to use a national mailorder contract supplier for Medicare to pay for diabetes testing supplies that are delivered to your home. If you’ve been getting your diabetes testing supplies through the mail and would like to continue to do so, you may need to choose a new supplier starting July 1, 2016. If you don’t want diabetes testing supplies delivered to your home, you can go to any local store (pharmacy or storefront supplier) that’s enrolled with Medicare and get your diabetes testing supplies there.

contract suppliers can’t charge you more than any unmet deductible and 20% coinsurance. Local stores also can’t charge more than any unmet deductible and 20% coinsurance if they accept assignment, which means the Medicareapproved amount as payment in full. Local stores that don’t accept Medicare assignment may charge you more than 20% coinsurance and any unmet deductible. If you get your diabetes testing supplies from a local store, check with the store to find out how much you’ll pay. You have certain protections when using a national mail-order contract supplier. National mail-order contract suppliers must: • Make the same items and services available to people with Medicare that they make available to people without Medicare. • Make sure you get a particular brand of diabetes testing supplies when a doctor or other health care provider prescribes a particular brand to avoid an adverse medical outcome. • Never influence or try to convince you to switch

and testing supplies brand to another brand. Finding a contract supplier To find a list of national mail-order contract suppliers online, visit Medicare. gov/supplier, enter your ZIP code, and click “Go.” Select “Mail-Order Diabetic Supplies” in the Competitive Bid Categories section, and click the green “Search” button at the bottom of the page. You can also get a list of national mail-order contract suppliers by calling 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY users should call 1-877-4862048. Get your questions answered If you have questions or want more information, Medicare has resources to help you understand the program, including Medicare. gov and 1-800-MEDICARE. Medicare Advantage Plans (like HMOs or PPOs) will notify you if your supplier is changing. Contact the plan for more information. This information is provided by the United States Department of Health and Human Services.

Ellie Lange elected to Hope Hospice Board of Directors Ellie Lange, a long-time resident of the Tri-Valley, has been elected to the Hope Hospice Board of Directors. She joins the 15-member board, each of whom is elected to a two-year term, up to three consecutive twoyear terms. “Ellie has been an active volunteer in the local community and has assumed leadership roles with business and civic organizations,” says Craig Eicher, president of the Hope Hospice Board of Directors. “That, along with her business skills, makes her a wonderful resource for Hope Hospice, the community and the families we serve,” he adds. Currently the owner and manager of several commercial properties in Dublin and Pleasanton, Lange has an extensive residential and commercial

real estate background in marketing, sales, training, management and office ownership. Her late husband Jim Lange was a pioneer in the development, building and growth of Dublin’s commercial community. “In the early days, Hope Hospice’s office was in a building that my husband developed and built. At the end of his life, Hope Hospice was there to guide us through a very difficult time,” says Lange.” We’ve come full circle with Hope Hospice, so my heart is with this organization and I am pleased to be able to make a contribution to the community through serving on the board.” A graduate of Sonoma State University, Lange has lived in Danville for the past 27 years. Prior to that, she lived in Pleasanton for 24

years. She has four adult children, all of whom live in California with their families. For more than 35 years, Hope Hospice has provided personalized end-of-life care to families in the Tri-Valley and surrounding communities. As a community-led, non-profit organization, Hope Hospice offers services regardless of insurance, income status or nation of origin or religion. Staff is available 24/7. Hope Hospice is accredited by the Joint Commission, licensed by the State of California Department of Health Services and Medicare/MediCal certified. Learn more at HopeHospice.com or contact us at (925) 829-8770.


Senior Living valleysentinel.com

page 11

July 2016

White Pony Express issues urgent call for volunteers to aid delivery of many roles available with Founded Solely to Serve volunteers who find great free food and clothing flexible schedules. Just give White Pony Express (WPE), a nonprofit group dedicated to ending hunger and poverty in Contra Costa County, is calling for more volunteers to help keep up with its rapid growth. WPE delivers fresh, topquality food and high quality clothing, toys, and children’s books, all free of charge, from its Pleasant Hill distribution centers to about 60,000 county residents in need. How WPE Rescues Food Seven days a week, WPE Food Rescue volunteers take trucks to supermarkets, restaurants, and farmers markets where they pick up surplus food—high quality, nourishing food—that would ordinarily be thrown away. In Danville, food donors include Costco, Lunardi’s, San Ramon Valley High School, Slow G’s Eatery, Trader Joe’s, and Vista Grande Elementary, and in San Ramon, Marriott Inn,

Nob Hill Foods, Sprouts, Whole Foods, and the Farmers Market. After WPE volunteers sort the food, they deliver it to Contra Costa nonprofit groups that feed the hungry. All of this is done free of charge. In two and a half years, WPE has delivered more than 3,000,000 pounds of meat, dairy, eggs, produce, deli, and baked goods (equivalent to 2,500,000 meals) that would otherwise have gone to waste and that the hungry would have gone without. WPE Stages Innovative “Mobile Boutiques” WPE’s Free General Store has hosted 35 unique “Mobile Boutiques” and taken more than 245,000 items to underserved parts of the county. Residents in need can “shop” at these Boutiques for new or likenew clothing, shoes, toys, games, and books and then take them home—all free of charge.

Others Carol Weyland Conner, PhD, spiritual director of Sufism Reoriented, founded WPE in September 2013 because she said she was troubled that in a county of such abundance, thousands were going hungry, while at the same time food retailers were throwing out huge quantities of healthy, fresh food. Dr. Conner developed WPE’s Food Rescue and the Free General Store, both of which are free community service programs, to enable those who have more than they need to easily give to those with less. In 2014, WPE became a separate public benefit nonprofit. Dr. Conner said she wanted service for WPE to spring from the heart, so today WPE is staffed entirely by volunteers who want to help, purely in the spirit of service. More Volunteers Needed “Our success has only been possible because of the selfless service of 400

satisfaction and joy in being so helpful to others,” says Gary Conner, Executive Coordinator. “Going forward, our ability to help our neighbors is limited only by the number of people who join with us. We welcome more volunteers! We have

us a call!” Interested volunteers should contact Mandy Nakaya at 925-818-6361 or email her at mandy@ whiteponyexpress.org. For more on WPE, go to www. whiteponyexpress.org.

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For additional Community Events visit: www.ValleySentinel.com Please email information about your events to info@valleysentinel.com COMMUNITY EVENTS Hope Hospice seeking volunteers Hope Hospice is currently looking for individuals who are interested in volunteering to assist hospice patients and their families. In keeping with Hope Hospice’s goal to make sure patients can live their lives to the fullest and with dignity, volunteers provide a variety of services that help enhance the quality of care of our patients’ lives. Volunteer opportunities include; Home Care; Cosmetology; Healing Touch; Reiki; Massage Therapy; Vocalists. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, contact Jill Biggs, RN, at 925-829-8770. Volunteers Needed: Read to Preschoolers Volunteers are needed at childcare centers in Concord, Pittsburg, and West County. The Contra Costa County Library will supply books and resources. For more information, please contact Maureen Kilmurray at 925-927-3288. Danville Farmer’s Market Every Saturday, Year-round 9am-1pm. Get the freshest seasonal fare at the Danville Certified Farmers’ Market. Railroad & Prospect Avenue, Danville. Information: www.ci.danville.ca.us. (You can make donations of fresh vegetables and fruit for our local food pantries at the Loaves & Fishes Booth at the Danville Farmers Market.) San Ramon Farmers Market Every Saturday & Thursday-Year-round, Bishop Ranch Buy fresh, seasonal produce directly from local farmers at San Ramon Farmers Market. Connect with your community while shopping at a festive gathering place with live music! www. SanRamonFarmersMarket.org Canine Companions for Independence Puppy Class Each Saturday 10-11am. Become a puppy raiser! The East Bay Miracles Chapter invites you to help train puppies to become assistant dogs for children and adults with disabilities. Make sure to check out their online calendar before heading off to volunteer. Athenian High School, 2100 Mt. Diablo Scenic Blvd., Danville. Information: 925-838-3213, cci.org/eastbaychapter Forest Home Farms Historic Park & Glass House Museum–open for Fun on the Farm Every Saturday 11am-2pm. Enjoy tours of the Glass House Museum, the farm and its history, 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 this National Historic Site in Danville. Catch the shuttle at the bus stop in front of the Museum of the San Ramon Valley-205 Railroad Ave. www.EugeneOneill.org Doggie Dayz of Summer - A Day at the Park July 9 9am-1pm. Enjoy the first Annual Doggie Day Extravaganza event at the San Ramon Memorial Dog Park to celebrate you and your love of dogs! This day will include more than 20 vendors with; dog-specific related goods and services, food trucks, San Ramon Police K9 Unit demonstrations, a costume parade, a pooch playground and more! Free admission ($5 for contest). San Ramon Memorial Park, Corner of Bollinger Canyon Road and San Ramon Valley Blvd. San Ramon. members.sanramon.org/events. Beyond the Shower Bucket: Water-Smart Living July 12 6:30-8:30pm. The drought continues despite El Nino rains. Learn conservation methods, including: low flow fixtures and appliances, tankless water heaters, grey water systems, rain catchment methods, drip irrigation, lawn replacement/sheet mulching, etc. $20. Rodgers Ranch Heritage Center, 315 Cortsen Rd., Pleasant Hill. Register at www.sustainablecoco. org/workshops.

Central Contra Costa Sanitary District’s 70th Anniversary Open House July 16 10am-2 pm. This large, family-friendly event will be open to the public and will include tours of the award-winning treatment plant and facilities, live entertainment, free food, educational exhibits, games and much more. 5019 Imhoff Place, Martinez, CA. www.centralsan.org 2016 Unite@Night Walk July 16 4:30-6pm. Chiari, syringomyelia or a related disorder can make a person feel powerless. But what if you–just YOU– could be the one thing that makes their lives better? YOU can be the hope for a better future! Unite@night is a collection of one-mile, casual evening walks around the country that bring together people who are living with the devastating effects of Chiari malformation, syringomyelia, and related disorders. www.csfinfo.org Forrest Home Farms tour July 23 10am-1pm. Studebaker Drivers Club is doing a tour that provides the background and history of Forest Home Farms Historic Park. Learn about the Boone Family that purchased the farm in 1899 and see all the buildings and exhibits including the Tractor Museum with over 30 restored antique tractors.View farm animals and organic gardens. $5. 19953 San Ramon Valley Blvd., San Ramon. www.srhf.org/events Relay for Life July 23 10am-10pm. Join the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life, July 23rd 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. in Heather Farm Park. This event unites participants to celebrate people who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost, and take action to finish the fight once and for all. A powerful way to participate in the fight is through Relay for Life. Heather Farm Park, 301 N San Carlos Dr. Walnut Creek. For more information on how to form a team, join an existing team, or other volunteer opportunities, go to www.relayforlife.org/walnutcreekca. Aloha Golf Classic July 25 9:30am-7pm. Join the Diablo Country Club for a day full of activities, networking, joy and entertainment. It’s Official! The Aloha Golf Classic will be held once again at the Beautiful and Historic Diablo Country Club! Registration & putting contest starts at 10am, Shotgun start at 12pm. Fore! Diablo Country Club, 1700 Clubhouse Road, Diablo. danvilleareachamber. com/events.

SENIORS Danville Seniors Unless otherwise noted, the following activities are held at the Danville Senior Center, Veterans Memorial Building, 115 E. Prospect, Danville. For more information call 925-314-3490 or visit www.ci.danville.ca.us/Recreation/Seniors. Sneaker Trips: The Town of Danville’s Senior Sneakers program is a great way for you to make new friends and get out and around the greater Bay Area. There’s always something new to see and learn. The Danville Area Senior Hikes (DASH) is open to all adults and meets on the second and fourth Wednesday of every month. The group starts at 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: 925-973-3250. Trips Trip Desk is open Tuesday from 10am-1pm. Sign up for trips at the travel desk or by depositing payment with registration form in the gold drop box found at the main entryway. Information: 973-3250. Wednesday Morning Hikes (time and location varies) Join the San Ramon Trailblazers if you are interested in meeting new people, enjoying the outdoors, having fun and getting in shape. The group meets once a week at various locations, This is an adults only group; pets are not permitted on hikes. To find out the exact meeting location and to get on the email list, please call the Senior Center or email trailblazer88@comcast.net. Page Turners Senior Book Group Third Tuesday of the month 1:30pm. Drop in–all are welcome! Copies of this month’s book are on reserve for you at the San Ramon Library Front Desk. Book group meets at Alcosta Senior and Community Center, 9300 Alcosta Blvd. Information: Carol Yuke, Adult Services Librarian. 925-973-285.

BUSINESS Foodservice in Motion: From the Food Truck to Brick & Mortar July 26 9-1pm. Attendees will learn what questions to ask when deciding whether or not to transition your food truck to brick-and-mortar, how to utilize the resources that are available to foodservice operators, and how to save energy, water and money when converting from a food truck to a brick-and-mortar. Food Service Center, 12949 Alcosta Blvd. Suite 101, San Ramon. www.fishnick.com Mega Mixer at Pleasant Hill Community Center July 28 5-7pm. The Lafayette Chamber will be one of many local area chambers attending the Mega Mixer. There will be delicious appetizers provided by participating chamber members, incredible networking opportunities, and bring a raffle prize and showcase your business! Pleasant Hill Community Center, 320 Civic Drive, Pleasant Hill. www. PleasantChamberHill.com BRN, Group 2 July 20 9-1am. The Business Referral Network Wednesday Group meets the first and third Wednesday of every month. They are always looking for professionals interested in building their business through referrals and networking. All are welcome to contact them and visit a meeting. $10 a month. 2400 Camino Ramon, Suite 158/K, San Ramon. www.sanramon.org/about-us/business-referral-networkgroup/brn-wednesday-group 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 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

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 BBR-Sunrise Alliance 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

CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS Danville-Alamo-Walnut Creek Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) advances equity for women and girls through advocacy, education, philanthropy and research. AAUW membership is open to all graduates of accredited four year colleges or universities and those holding an Associate Degree or equivalent. Prospective members are welcome and may contact Liz at 389-0152 for details. Visit daw-ca.aauw.net for meeting dates. Cancer workshops and support groups-Ongoing Most are free. Cancer Support Community, 3276 McNutt Avenue, Walnut Creek. Information / reservations call (925) 933-0107 or visit www.cancersupportcommunity. net. Fibro? CFIDS? Chronic Pain? If these are familiar to you, call about the San Ramon Valley support group for people who need support, information, classes and friendship from people 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 925-8298770. Hospice of the East Bay Support groups and workshops for adults, children and teens experiencing grief after the death of a loved one. Classes will be offered at Hospice’s Administrative Offices: 3470 Buskirk Avenue; Pleasant Hill and the Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation: 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek. Pre-registration is required for all groups and classes, except our drop-in group. To register, please call Hospice of the East Bay: (925) 887-5681. Information: www. hospiceeastbay.org Wind ‘n Sea Sailing Club Sailing training classes take place at members’ homes. Information: Call Jan at 925-837-3381. 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

July 2016 sexual behavior and helps women heal from the betrayal of their relationship. Confidential groups for men and for women. No charge / donations accepted. Call (877326-7000). www.AvenueResource. com.

RECURRING Mondays: 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 D a n v i l l e / S y c a m o r e Va l l e y Rotary 7 a m . M e e t s e v e r y Tu e s d a y 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. 925838-7870. San Ramon Vallley Geneological Society 10am. Meets every third Tuesday ath the LDS Church, 2949 Stone Va l l e y R o a d , A l a m o . h t t p : / / 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.

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Walnut Creek Rotary 12:15-1:30pm. Meets every Tuesday. Heather Farms Garden Center, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: rotarywc.org.

participate in service activities supporting sons/daughters serving in the military. Danville Veterans Memorial Building, 400 Hartz Ave. Information: bluestarmoms.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.

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.

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.

Diablo Valley Quilters 7-9pm. Meets the third Wednesday of every month. No charge for guests. Danville Congregational Church, 989 San Ramon Valley Blvd., Danville. Information: diablovalleyquilters.com. Veterans of Foreign Wars 7pm. Meets the third Wednesday of every month. Veterans Memorial Hall, 400 Hartz Avenue, Danville. Information: Post Commander Ernie Petagara at 925-362-9806 or vfwpost75.org.

Wednesdays: Walnut Creek Toastmasters 7-8:15pm. Meets every Wednesday. 1660 Oak Park Blvd., Pleasant Hill. Information: walnutcreek. freetoasthost.net

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.

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.

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.

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. Room W204 at Diablo Valley College,1690 Watermill Road, San Ramon. Information: danvilletoastmasters1785.com. San Ramon Valley Rotary 7pm. Meets every Wednesday. Blackhawk Country Club, 599 Blackhawk Club Drive, 711 Silver Lake Drive, Danville. Info: sanramonvalleyrotary.com. Danville Lions Club 7pm. Meets the first and third Wednesday 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

Rotary Club of San Ramon 11:45am. Meets every Thursday. Crow Canyon Country Club, 711 Silver Lake Drive, Danville. Information: sanramonrotary.org. San Ramon Valley Kiwanis Club Thursday at Noon. Black Bear Diner, 807 Camino Ramon, Danville. www. kiwanis-srv.org Clutterers Anonymous 7-8pm. Meets the 2nd and 4th Thursday of every month. St. Luke’s Lutheran Church Room 3, 
2491 San Miguel Drive, 
Walnut Creek. Information: 925-736-8627. Diablo Valley Lions Club 7:30pm. Meets the 1st, 3rd, and

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4th Thursday of every month. 1400 Montego Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: diablovalleyca.lionwap. org. Fridays: Transitions-“Navigating Life’s Turning Points Together” 9-11:30am. Our group now has a new name, which has been changed from TENS to Transitions. Our mission is to encourage and support women from empty nest, to aging parents and everything in between. Community Presbyterian Church, Room 116, 222 W. El Pintado Rd., Danville. Information: Contact Donna Hill at hillmom3@comcast.net Saturdays: Diablo Region of the Porsche Club of America 7:30-9am. Meets every Saturday. Buttercup Bar and Grill, 660 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek. Information: diablo-pca.org. Parkinson’s Disease Support Group 9am-12pm. Meets every 3rd Saturday. Join us to share, laugh, and learn from each other. Grace Presbyterian Church, 2100 Tice Valley Blvd., Walnut Creek. Contact Gregg Riehl at (925) 254-8349 or jgriehl@gmail.com. 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. On the first Sunday of every month, automotive enthusiasts gather in the parking lots of the Blackhawk Museum to share their vehicles and admire the other fabulous classic cars, hot rods, sports cars, exotics and anything else with wheels and a motor that promotes the car enthusiast hobby. Cars & Coffee is a year round event, rain or shine. The Museum opens at 9am on Cars & Coffee Sundays and there is a Docent-led tour at 2pm. Participating car owners receive two complimentary tickets to the Museum courtesy of our sponsors. Blackhawk Museum, 3700 Blackhawk Plaza Circle, Danville. www.blackhawkmuseum.org

Classifieds HELP WANTED IT Database Administrator: B.S. in C.S., E.E., or rltd. & amp; 5 yrs. rltd. exp. CV to: Bank of the West H.R.: careers@bankofthewest. com. EEO. Position in San Ramon, CA.

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

AUTO March 2009 July 2016

The 2016 Ford Mustang GT Convertible By David and Judy Colman

The latest offering in Ford’s rag top pony car line is a very endearing product. Hot Rodders will love it for its 435hp and bellowing exhaust note. Sun worshippers will give it high grades for its expansive tanning bed. Back road carvers will grant it high marks for its handling dexterity. About the only souls predisposed to condemnation are mileage nerds who will look askance at the GT’s combined EPA rating of 19 MPG. Believe me, that’s a small price to pay for the repetitive fun dividend this Ford provides every day. As has been the case since this model’s inception in 1964, there are pretend Mustangs and there are real Mustangs. The pretend stallions are gelded at birth with just 6 cylinders under the hood. The real Mustangs come off the Flat Rock assembly line with a proper V8 in the engine bay. In the case of our Competition Orange test GT, proper refers

to a 5.0 liter V8 massaged to produce 435hp and 400lb.ft. of torque. The best of all drivertrains to harness this output is the 6-speed manual transmission, coupled to a 3.31:1 rear axle ratio, both of which are available at no extra cost. The manual shift is a work of art, from the incised pattern on its chromed knob to the lockout lift ring for reverse gear. The levers throws are ultra short and satisfying. The clutch pedal’s precise engagement makes slamming home shifts at redline a true driver’s delight. Enthusiasts will never run short of enthusiasm for driving this manual gearbox Mustang GT. Unlike so many frontengine muscle cars, the GT does not disappoint when the occasion arises to tackle some curves. In that regard, Ford has done everything to make the Mustang a stellar handling pony car. Confidence in curves starts with the right underpinnings. Here, Mustang

was an early adopter of fully independent rear suspension to go along with independent front suspension. This pairing results in a balanced, controllable platform which is fine tuned by a stout front strut tower brace and a standard limited slip rear axle that prevents wheelspin. All GTs offer standard electronic

line-lock for optimizing drag race starts, plus a bevy of “Mustang Tack Apps” that allow you to monitor g-forces, braking times, acceleration times in the quarter mile, as well as 0-60mph times. The convertible version of the GT is remarkably stiff. You will never sense the

chassis flexing, even when traversing railroad tracks with the top down. And speaking of that top, it will fold itself into a neat covered receptacle in less than 10 seconds. All you have to do is manually release a hefty T-shaped lock handle to disconnect the roof header from the windshield surround. Dropping the roof automatically lowers all four side windows. However, raising the roof requires you to elevate on your own those same side windows. Ford has provided a sizeable glass rear window and equipped it with heating coils to keep it clear. Even with the top raised, visibility to the rear and sides is surprisingly good considering the GT’s sleek proportions. You will definitely want to order your convertible with the slick and relatively inexpensive “California Special Package” ($1,995) which pays tribute to a rare GT/CS Mustang Ford built in the late 1960s for California only. In today’s version of that Golden State look back,

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Ford supplies exceptionally handsome 19 inch painted and machined ebony alloy wheels which carry hefty Pirelli P Zero Nero rubber measuring 255/40R19 at each corner. These wheels and tires alone would cost you twice the California Special Package surcharge were you to order the combo from your local tire store. In addition to the sticky footprint, the package also includes a piano black tail spoiler, plus very handsome ebony accents on the hood and rockers that utilize decreasing size Ben Day dots to accentuate the Mustang’s swooping lines. The almost equally expensive “Shaker Pro Audio System” ($1,795) is an item I could live without. Since we spent most of our week with the top dropped, the Shaker’s See AUTO page 15


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page 15

Keeping Your Neighborhood Safe this Summer

AUTO from page 14 12 speaker system and huge trunk-mounted sub woofer was hard pressed to compete with the sound of rushing air. The GT Convertible includes very nice 3-stage heated front seats. The interior is well laid out in terms of door design, low instrument panel height, and reach to the shift console. There’s a tad too much chrome on the auxiliary switch control panel located at the foot of the center stack. The HVAC blower switch is too small and difficult to activate. But all in all, the Mustang GT offers drivers the best interior design of any muscle car on the market today. Be thankful you can still buy this much high performance for this little outlay today. 2016 FORD MUSTANG GT CONVERTIBLE ENGINE: 5.0 Liter TI-VCT V8 HORSEPOWER: 435hp TORQUE: 400lb.-ft. FUEL CONSUMPTION: 15 MPG City/25 MPG Highway PRICE AS TESTED: $47,380 HYPES: 5.0 V8 is wicked quick, with sound to match GRIPES: Does a Steering Wheel really need 18 buttons? STAR RATING: 10 Stars Out Of 10

By Candace Andersen. Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors

School is out, graduations are over, and it’s time for summer travel. A recent TripAdvisor survey found that 88 percent of U.S. respondents are planning to vacation this summer. This information is not lost on the criminals who are looking for easy prey. Whether you have longstanding travel plans, a last minute road trip in mind, or just sticking around town this summer, you should think about keeping your home and neighborhood safe while you are away. Here are several important safety practices our local law enforcement recommends to keep your home and neighborhood safe this summer and throughout the year: • Don’t advertise that you’re away from home – thieves look for clues like outdoor lights burning 24 hours a day,

piled up newspapers, mail, or advertising fliers hanging on door knobs. Use an inexpensive light timer when you are away, and either put “on hold” or ask a neighbor or friend to pick up your mail and newspapers. • If you go out for the day or evening turn on a radio, television or lights so the house or apartment appears to be occupied. • Burglars know to look for the hidden door key near the front entrance. DO NOT hide spare keys under rocks, in flowerpots, under doormats, or above door ledges. Instead, give the spare key to a trusted neighbor. • Have packages sent to your work address if possible so they are not sitting all day on your porch unattended. • Consider purchasing a locking mailbox. These devices protect packages and make it more difficult for thieves to steal mail that may contain personally identifiable information and account numbers. • Do not place outgoing mail in your

mailbox. Criminals may steal it. Consider dropping your mail at the local post office. • Keep your garage door closed, even in the middle of the day. This will decrease the chances of a thief stealing items from inside your garage. • Don’t post summer travel plans or photos from your fabulous vacation on social media until you get home, as this may alert more than just your friends to your extended absence. • Install motion and dawn-to-dusk lighting around your home. • Ask a trusted neighbor to watch your house while you are away and arrange for someone to check your residence to ensure there are no problems. Local law enforcement agencies provide vacation checks while residents are away. Below is the contact information to schedule a vacation wellcheck: * Alamo – Call 24-hour dispatch at (925) 646-2441 * Blackhawk - Call 24-hour dispatch at (925) 646-2441

* Danville – submit request on-line or call (925) 314-3700 * San Ramon - (925) 973-2700 Finally, watch out for your neighbors when they’re not home. It is important to report any suspicious activities. Our local police and sheriff deputies would much rather follow up on an incident that turns out to be harmless than respond after a crime has been committed. 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.

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The valley Sentinel page 16 valleysentinel.com

Helping you take control “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.

“ I’m all about helping my customers reduce their energy costs. We want you to know you have options—ways to take control and save.” Jerris robinson Senior Service Representative

PG&E wants to give customers more choices and control over their energy use. That’s why we offer a variety of rate plan options tailored to fit the unique needs of the customers we serve. We want you to be able to find the rate plan, programs and services that best meet your needs. Explore your options and start saving at pge.com/rates.

See your options

Choose a plan

Control your costs

pge.com/rates


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