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November 2021 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 1
& NOVEMBER 2021
THUNDER, FIRE, AND SNOW USHER IN A NEW ERA ON MOUNT DIABLO
By Jody Morgan
Nineteen hundred and thirty-one was a record-setting year on Mount Diablo. Thunder, lightning, and torrential rain highlighted the second dedication of Mount Diablo State Park in April. The mountain’s most extensive wildfire charred 25,000 acres in July, and snow blanketed the mountain in December reaching halfway down the slopes. During the decade that followed the first dedication of Mount Diablo State Park in 1921, automobiles continued to race up Walter P. Frick’s private toll roads, visitors of all ages climbed to the summit, and Standard Oil gave aviators The restored beacon watches over the Diablo a navigational beacon near the peak. foothills and valleys. Photo by Cris Benton. In 1927, the California Legislature approved a bill establishing the State Park Commission. In 1928 Californians voted almost 3-1 in favor of a $6 million park bond act. Hired to advise, Frederick
The Civilian Conservation Corps constructed the Summit Building from stone quarried on Mount Diablo. Afterwards the beacon was placed on top. Photo courtesy of Save Mount Diablo.
Law Olmsted, Jr. did a statewide survey of potential parklands and provided a report on long-range goals for acquisition and development. Following his recommendation, parcels purchased for Mount Diablo State Park included the right of way for Southgate Road, Fossil Ridge, and Rock City.
See Diablo continued on page 16
Local Postal Customer
PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID Permit 263 Alamo CA
ECRWSS
HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS
ALAMO TREE LIGHTING
The Alamo Rotary Club is sponsoring the annual Alamo Tree Lighting. This free event will take place from 4:30-6:30PM, November 28th, at Oak Tree Plaza located at 3000 Danville Blvd. in Alamo. There will be school choirs and jazz bands, and even Santa Claus making an appearance. It is a perfect way to begin the holiday season.
DANVILLE LIGHTING OF THE OLD OAK TREE
On Friday, November 26th from 5-8:30PM, come downtown Danville to celebrate the beginning of the holiday season. The evening kicks-off with the lighting of the Danville Oak Tree on Diablo Rd. After the lighting ceremony stroll Hartz Ave. where businesses will be open for shopping and local groups will sing holiday carols.
EUROPEAN TRAIN ENTHUSIASTS EXHIBIT
Wednesdays through Sundays from 10AM to 5PM running November
See Happenings continued on page 13
FOR DANVILLE RESIDENT, AGE IS NO BARRIER TO FINDING JOY IN SERVICE
By Steve Spraitzar
The daughter of Danville resident Yuli Chen shared her mother’s love of knitting. She also loved serving others, and for many years she would knit, while her mother, Yuli, helped her to find community members who would benefit from these beautifully crafted items. Regretfully, Yuli’s beloved daughter died three years ago, and Yuli’s husband passed away a year later. Now in her nineties and wondering what to do with her time, Yuli recalled the wonderful experience of giving her daughter’s lovingly knitted items to the underserved Yuli Chen displays some of the hats that she has in her community. “There lovingly knitted and donated to White Pony Express. was such joy in that,” Yuli explains. “I could see the happiness in the faces of those who received these gifts.” She also remembered her years in Cincinnati,
See Service continued on page 14
The Editors Serving the communities of Alamo, Diablo, and Danville
Volume XXI Number 11
3000F Danville Blvd. #117 Alamo, CA 94507 Telephone (925) 405-6397 Alisa Corstorphine ~ Publisher Editor@yourmonthlypaper.com
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Volume XII Number 11
The opinions expressed herein belong to the writers, and do not necessarily reflect that of The Editors. The Editors is not responsible for the content of any of the advertising herein, nor does publication imply endorsement.
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Highly likely to recommend | 5.0
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Most Recent Zillow Reviews
PAGE 2 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • November 2021
Results. Pure and Simple.
Don all around provided such an incredible home buying experience for my wife and I as we decided to take our chances in this crazy market we find ourselves in today. No games, just an extremely knowledgeable agent who has done it all and seen it all in the 35yrs he's been in this industry. From his extensive local knowledge, to his business savvy, to his ability to make all parties feel comfortable with the process, he made us feel like family. That we could truly trust in him as the agent representing us. I could go on and on about all the ways he went above and beyond, from the locations to be considering based on our wants/ needs, to the support he provided around disclosures and inspections, on through the closing of the loan, he was always there for us when we needed his assistance. We would strongly recommend Don to anyone looking for that agent they can really put their trust in. A true professional. Thanks, Don!
Highly likely to recommend | 5.0 05/15/2021 - KimBoragno Sold a Single Family home in 2021 in Alamo, CA. My husband and I interviewed a few agents prior to listing our home for sale. Right after we spoke with Don and heard how prepared and knowledgeable he was about our area we knew he was the right agent for us. Well prepared, a very hands on agent that not only gave us a timeline but physically helped us prepare our home for the sale. He was very responsive, professional and honest all along the way. We sold our house within the first week on the market and were extremely satisfied. It’s been many years since we’ve had to sell a home but we felt very comfortable during the process as Don was patient explaining every step along the way. I would highly recommend working with Don if you're looking for a great agent.
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BOULEVARD VIEW By Alisa Corstorphine, Editor and Publisher
As we head into a more “open” holiday season this year, it is still not “business as usual,” like it was pre-pandemic. We’ve probably all experienced things that have been impacted by supply chain delays, and it is hard not to notice the plethora of “Help Wanted” signs gracing many store fronts. These are interesting times indeed! Local merchants and service providers are ones that can help make any community special. They take care of our needs and are our neighbors and coworkers. I received an email from a vendor I work with, and they were taking a pulse of how well they and their staff were performing. Their simple message made me stop and think. In their letter they noted: • Your compliments provide me an opportunity to recognize those who are providing you with exceptional service. • Your suggestions give me the opportunity to improve my processes. • Your concerns hold me accountable and help me identify areas in need of improvement. To hear compliments, suggestions, and concerns first hand, rather than through a social media forum or an online rant, can make a huge difference to any business. The method we deliver that feedback is important. As in most cases, in-person, face-to-face, calm communication usually gets the best results. How often do we take our businesses and ser vice providers for granted? How often do we lash out and “blast” a business when we feel wronged? How often do we thank our merchants, clerks, and service providers when they do a good job? “Kudos” and “shout-outs” are appreciated by everyone. I encourage you to make an effort to extend some extra kindness and practice some extra patience this season. As the holidays approach, please search out and support our neighborhood vendors. Purchase gift cards for local restaurants. Look into nearby concerts and shows, including at our schools, Town of Danville (visit www.danville.ca.gov/calendar to see upcoming events), and surrounding communities. Shop some of the upcoming holiday boutiques mentioned within these pages. Purchase something special from our area such as the newly released book, Historic Tales of Alamo, California, which can be found at the Museum of the San Ramon Valley, or find some great Centennial Merchandise at the Mount Diablo Interpretive Association online store https://mount-diablo-interpretive-association.square.site/. I just purchased this great t-shirt commemorating our local state park. They also have mugs, baseball caps, pins, magnets, and more commemorating this historic milestone. This is also the start of the “season of giving.” There are many collections and drives to aide others mentioned within these pages. Please consider donating or helping with any of these wonderful initiatives, whether it be Tri-Valley Trapper a food drive, a warm clothing collection, or a special gift for children in foster care. We can all help make someones day a little brighter.
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November 2021 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 3
FREE “POP-UP MUSEUM,” RECOGNIZING 75TH ANNIVERSARY OF END OF WORLDVeterans WAR Day II Open House
Alamo Tree WW II Lighting Festival
★ San Ramon Valley veterans★ will be welcoming families and Friday & Saturday - November 11,Museum” 12 & 13 - 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM & Sunday 14 - 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM the general public to a specialThursday, “Four Day inNovemberDanville th starting on Thursday, November 11 . The military-themed World War II Displays Featuring Military Memorabilia, Historical Artifacts & More exhibits, gathered from local residents, will be displayed inside the main auditorium of the Veterans Memorial Building located at 400 Hartz Avenue in Danville, as well asFree outside the- Everyone building. Admission Welcomed This year’s theme (carried 75th Anniversary the end of over from the 2020 canceled event) is the “75TH Anniversary of the end of World War II.” The exhibits will recognize those who helped to win the war. Groups being honored include Tuskegee Airmen, Navajo Code Talkers, Port Chicago Sailors, 442nd Regiment of Japanese Americans, Filipino Forces on Bataan, Women in the Military, Polish Fighters in Europe, Rosie the Riveter, and the 761st Tank Battalion-“Black Panthers.” In addition to live presentations, exhibits will also include military memorabilia from a variety of time periods including: • Full size cockpit of F-8 Crusader jet from USS Hornet • “Huey” helicopter • Maps of a Changed World • “Big Band” music from the 1940’s • Military radios as precursor to cell phones • Pearl Harbor newspapers • World War II local Valley Veterans photo board • Blue Star Moms (offering sending of a postcard to current service men and women overseas) Admission is free. Visitors and exhibitors are asked to wear masks indoors, per county health guidelines. Hours of operation are Thursday, November 11th, Friday, November 12th, and Saturday, November 13th from 9AM to 5PM, and Sunday, November 14th from 10AM to 4PM. For more information call 925-998-9433, email info@ stevenburchik.com, or visit www.vmbsrv.org. Veterans Memorial Building of San Ramon Valley - 400 Hartz Ave. Danville, CA
★ Contributions of Diverse Ethnic Groups ★ Maps of a Changed World ★ Tuskeegee Airmen ★ Navajo Code Talkers ★ WW II Poster Display
★ Filipino Forces/Bataan Death March ★ Women in the Military ★ Port Chicago Explosion ★ Huey Helicopter on Display ★ Military Vehicles on Display
Music from local schools | Santa Claus | Hot Chocalate | Food Drive
FOOD DRIVE
The Kiwanis Club of San Ramon Valley is teaming team up with NBC Bay Area and Safeway grocery stores to help support the 17th annual Food Drive taking place in November and December. On November 20th with help from over 30 volunteers, including Key Club high schoolers, members of the National Charity League, Boys Team Charities, and friends and family, the Kiwanis Club will be encouraging shoppers to make a donation to the Food Bank at checkout. Safeway will have scannable tickets at every cash register, that will be for a $10 donation to the Food Bank of Contra Costa/ Solano. Every donation will go directly to help provide food to our neighbors most in need this holiday season. Kiwanis will be matching donations made at the four Safeway locations in the San Ramon Valley, up to $1,000 per store. “We are excited to participate in the NBC Bay Area/Safeway Food Drive this year. We missed seeing everyone in 2021, and while the world is getting closer to normal, people are still hungry and need extra help, especially with the holidays coming up,” says Nancy Bray, Chair of the Kiwanis 2021 Food Drive. Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to changing the world one child and one community at a time. Founded in 1915 in Detroit, and with headquarters now in Indianapolis, Kiwanis International is a thriving organization of service and communityminded individuals who support children and young adults around the world. More than 600,000 Kiwanis family members in 96 countries make their mark by responding to the needs of their communities and pooling their resources to address worldwide issues. Additional information may be found at www.srvkiwanis.org.
November 28, 2021 4:30pm - 6:30pm Andrew H. Young Park 3000 Danville Blvd, Alamo
PAGE 4 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • November 2021
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ROWAN BRANCH HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE
Join Rowan Branch at their Holiday Boutique, benefiting UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital Oakland, on Saturday, November 13th from 10AM-1PM at the Danville Women’s Club located at 242 West Linda Mesa in Danville. Shop for beautiful succulent potted plants, elegant holiday wreaths, unique jewelry, gorgeous linens for home and holiday, delicious toffee, and fun clothing. There will also be raffle prizes and light refreshments.
JEWELRY FUNDRAISER FAIRE
Rehearsal time for the Danville Community Band. Photo by Marian Bliss.
THE DANVILLE COMMUNITY BAND RETURNS
On October 18 , the Danville Community Band held its first rehearsal since shutting down just prior to its spring concert in 2019 due to the pandemic. Following safety protocols, over 50 members attended the rehearsal. It felt like starting a new band, much like it was 20 years ago when 58 musicians came together for the very first time as the Danville Community Band. Twelve of those charter members and the founding conductor, Dr. Lawrence Anderson, were in attendance for this 2021 reboot rehearsal. Happy to finally get going after such a long break, the band is looking forward to entertaining an audience for the first concert of its 20th anniversary season in December. The date and location are still to be determined, but watch the band’s website www.danvilleband.org for upcoming performance information.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 4TH ~ 10AM -7PM & FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 5TH ~ 10AM-4PM
th
THE HISTORY AND STORY OF ALAMO, CALIFORNIA A FREE ONLINE PRESENTATION
The Museum of the San Ramon Valley is presenting a free online program on November 18th at 11:30AM on “The History and Story of Alamo, CA.” Presenters are the authors of the book Historic Tales of Alamo, California, local historians Beverly Lane and Sharon Burke. Beginning with the area’s geology and native peoples, Historic Tales will tell the story and history of this vibrant community in the north part of the San Ramon Valley. Hear about the early settlers, the origin of Alamo’s name, the early ranchos, and title controversies. In addition learn about the twentieth century challenges the community has faced, and see new, as well as rarely seen, photographs of Alamo. Please join in for this interesting and entertaining discussion. To attend this free online presentation, please visit www. museumsrv.org and go to the “Events” section or call 925-837-3750. The authors will also be having a book signing on November 21st and 22nd from 11AM1PM at the Museum of the San Ramon Valley. The book makes an excellent holiday gift. The Museum of the San Ramon Valley is located at 205 Railroad Ave. in Danville. The museum is open Tuesday-Friday 1PM3PM, Saturday 10AM-1PM, and Sunday noon-3PM.
RUTH BANCROFT GARDEN OF D'LIGHTS
Beautiful costume jewelry starting at just $5 and designer jewelry at 50% off will be for sale at the Alamo Women's Club (AWC) Jewelry Fundraiser Faire. The sale will be held at the AWC located at 1401 Danville Blvd., Alamo. Proceeds benefit the AWC mission and local scholarships. Masks and distancing are required when shopping.
A CELEBRATION OF HOLIDAYS IN THE VALLEY
In the spirit of the season, on November 26th the Museum of the San Ramon Valley will be opening a new exhibit called “Holidays in the Valley.” This exhibit will show how two valley cultures celebrate their holidays. One the traditional Christmas holiday, the other Chinese New Year. Both take place in the winter season and each celebration is a valued and important part of their culture. Learn about why we sing Christmas carols and why red envelopes are given out at Chinese new year. Understand the many traditions that make these holidays important. Many interesting facts related to these holidays are covered in the exhibit. As in years past, the Museum will have the Polar Express train running, as well a large Christmas tree, and other holiday decorations on display. Many interesting and informative decorations celebrating Chinese New Year will also be on view. As you visit the many great downtown shops, eat in one of the many great restaurants, or are just strolling the town, take a moment and visit this fun family exhibit celebrating the greatest time of the year! The Museum of the San Ramon Valley is located at 205 Railroad Ave. in Danville. The museum is open Foster Children desperately need our love, prayers and Tuesday-Friday support. Make a difference for a foster child this holiday 1PM-3PM, Saturday season by fulfilling their wish list. 10AM-1PM, and With your help and partnering with agencies like Agape Sunday noon-3PM. Villages and EA Foster Agency, we are striving to deliver
Experience the Ruth Bancroft Garden in a whole new way this holiday season. With more lights and more lasers, this year’s Garden of D’Lights will be better than ever! Guests of all ages are in for a holiday treat as they meander through the Garden’s 3.5 acres of mature cacti, succulents, and trees that are transformed into magical and colorful botanical sculptures by thousands of lights. Garden of D’Lights will be held on various Thursday through Sunday evenings from November 11th - January 2nd. Timed-entry tickets will be available for 5:30pm, 6:30pm, and 7:30pm spots. Garden Members will receive 33% off ticket pricing. Tickets are on sale at www.ruthbancroftgarden.org/lights2021. The Garden is located at 1552 Bancroft Rd. in Walnut Creek.
HOLIDAY DRIVE
hundreds of gifts to local foster children this year.
How to Donate Gifts: 1. Scan the QR code below 2. Pick a gift from the Amazon Wish List by December 15th
FACTS ABOUT FOSTER CHILDREN 60,000 children are in foster care in California 65% experience 7+ school transfers 1-3% graduate college
40-50% homeless within 18 months of aging out 35% incarcerated within 2 yrs ~80% of inmates have spent time in foster care
If you prefer to donate cash, you can Venmo us at @FosteringWishes or scan our GoFundMe QR Code to the right. Tax receipts are available upon request at Fostering.Wishes@outlook.com
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November 2021 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 5
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Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01527235. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footage are approximate.
PAGE 6 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • November 2021
ONE WARM COAT & TOGETHER WE GIVE
For the 26th year, Rotary Club of San Ramon Valley will hold their One Warm Coat drive. Please clean out your closets, and gather gently used, new, and clean, coats, sweaters, blankets, hats, and gloves of all sizes. Donations will benefit Christmas for Everyone in Martinez, Food Bank clients at their distribution sites, homeless camps, and agencies like Emeryville Citizens Assistance Program. Drop off bins will be placed throughout the community through November 30. In Alamo, bring items to Roundhill Country Club - 3169 Roundhill Rd., or, on the west side, a bin will be placed on the porch of a home at 172 Via Serena - near Ace Hardware. In Danville, boxes will be placed at Monte Vista High School - 3131 Stone Valley Rd., Peet’s Coffee - 435 Railroad Ave., Compass Real Estate - 190 Hartz Ave., and Heritage Bank - 387 Diablo Rd. San Ramon drop-off locations include Club Sport - 350 Bollinger Canyon Lane, and Bella Vista Elementary School - 1050 Trumpet Vine Ln. In partnership, on Wednesday, November 3rd from 2PM to 5PM, the Alamo Women’s Club’s Together We Give project will be offering curbside donation drop off on. Tax receipts will be available. The Club is located at 1401 Danville Blvd., in Alamo. With winter approaching, it is as important as ever that the community, families, and friends continue their generosity in keeping others warm.
INSPIRE CHANGE THROUGH A LOVE EXCHANGE
White Pony Express (WPE), the food rescue organization serving Contra Costa County, recently launched their 2021 annual fundraising campaign: The Love Exchange! At WPE, there is no “giver” or “receiver”—it’s a circle—A Love Exchange! This campaign features love in action and the way it is shared freely between WPE, their community partners, dedicated volunteers, and the hungry and malnourished neighbors they feel privileged to serve. Here’s why these exchanges are so important: • 42 million Americans face food insecurity in 2021,13 million of which are children. • Up to 40% of the food produced annually in the U.S. is wasted. It would take redistributing only 30% of this wasted food to meet the total dietary needs of every food-insecure person in the nation. • Short and long-term health outcomes of being food insecure include birth defects, anemia, cognitive problems, behavioral problems, anxiety, and aggression. WPE relies on the generosity of our giving community to help us provide nutritious, fresh food, clothing, and goods to more than 80 partner agencies serving the county’s highest-need populations. Become a change agent for your community • Support WPE, Contra Costa County’s food rescue organization. • Share donation links on your social media profiles. • Raise awareness, fund-raise, or host a drive. Together, all of us taking care of all of us. Join the WPE email list or follow WPE on social media for stories featuring love in action. Learn more at www.whiteponyexpress.org/2021-love-exchange-campaign.
ALAMO DANVILLE NEWCOMERS CLUB
Are you a new or long-time resident of Danville, Alamo, Blackhawk, or Diablo? Or are you newly retired or an empty nester interested in making new friends and participating in various social activities? The Alamo Danville Newcomers Club (ADNC) is a woman’s organization whose purpose is to enrich the lives of its members and their families in a social manner. Check out all the club has to offer by visiting www.alamodanvillenewcomers.com. Consider meeting the group at an outdoor "Information Coffee" on Thursday, October 21st at 9:30AM. For details about attending, or questions on how to get involved with ADNC, please email alamodanvillenewcomers@gmail.com.
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SONS IN RETIREMENT
Looking for things to do in your retirement? Consider joining Sons in Retirement (SIR) San Ramon Valley Branch #128. There are monthly luncheons with interesting speakers and good fellowship. Additionally, members have fun participating in a variety of Zoom-related activities including investing, book groups, fantasy football, technology, wine tastings, and more. Members are also now participating in various outdoor activities including golf, bocce ball, bicycling, and hiking. The November meeting will be a virtual event via Zoom. The speaker will be Allan Shields, Chief, Danville Police Department. Chief Shields has been in law enforcement for over 20 years and as the Chief of Police, he is responsible for all major functions of the Police Department to ensure the safety of Danville’s citizens. Chief Shields will provide an update on the Department and answer questions about its current and future status. The presentation will be held Wednesday, November 17th at 11AM. To access the virtual meeting as a guest, please email membership@sir128. com. To learn more about the group, visit www.SIR128.com.
ROTARIANS RECEIVE OUTSTANDING EAGLE SCOUT AWARD
Two members of the Rotary Club of Alamo, Steve Polcyn and Jack Thompson, were presented the Outstanding Eagle Scout Award on behalf of the National Eagle Scout Association, for their distinguished service since receiving their Eagle awards decades ago. They have both Left to right - Jack Thompson, Frank Yoke, “inspired others through their actions Steve Polcyn, and Brian Thiessen. by devoting a lifetime to their profession, avocation, community, and beliefs at great sacrifice to themselves and their families.” In each case their service has been outstanding at the local, state, regional, and international levels. Steve received his Eagle in April 1955 in Troop 642, Chicago, and his adult service has included working with a number of health care companies and in the high-tech business. He has been a member of the Rotary Club of Alamo for over 20 years and active in Rotary District 5160. He is a board member and immediate past board president of RotaCare Bay Area, Inc. He was named Citizen of the Year for Alamo in 2017. Jack earned his Eagle in Troop 234, Mt Kisco, New York in 1967. He has received the Distinguished Alumnus Award from the University of Arizona, multiple professional society recognitions, and was an executive with mining companies in various domestic and international.
THE VILLAGE THEATRE ART GALLERY PRESENTS: IMPRESSIONS OF LIGHT
Young artists bring a fresh new perspective to the Village Theatre Art Gallery this November as the newest exhibition, Impressions of Light, partners the Town of Danville with artists from local middle schools. The exhibition will feature artwork inspired by the great Impressionist painters. During the Impressionist period, artists aimed to capture an impression of an object, or landscape, or model rather than aim for exact detail. The goal was to convey a feeling of color and movement. In this student exhibition, some artists have used the style of impressionism with more modern design concepts and themes, while others have chosen to copy the masters and their most famous works with their own interpretation and style. Students from Charlotte Wood, Diablo Vista, Iron Horse, Los Cerros, Pine Valley, Stone Valley, and Windermere Ranch middle schools will be showing their work. The exhibition was imagined and curated by art teachers Gary Leveque from Charlotte Wood and Tricia Grame from Pine Valley. Both teachers have taught art in the district for close to 30 years. An opening reception for Impressions of Light will be held on Saturday, November 6th, from 4PM-6PM. Complimentary refreshments will be served on the patio in front of the Village Theatre & Art Gallery. The reception is free and open to the public. The exhibition runs November 6th - December 17th. The Village Theatre Art Gallery, located at 233 Front St. in Danville, is currently open to visitors Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays from noon-5PM and on Saturdays from 11AM to 3PM. All other days are by appointment only. COVID-19 safety guidelines will be in effect and masks must be worn by all regardless of vaccination status. Admission is free. For more information, contact Visual Arts Coordinator Marija Nelson Bleier at (925) 314-3460 or mnelsonbleier@danville.ca.gov.
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November 2021 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 7 Article Alamo Today, Danville Today October:
HOW MANY HOMES ARE SELLING ABOVE LISTHowPRICE INareTHE GREATER DANVILLE AREA? many Homes Selling Above List Price in the Greater Danville Area? By Joe Gatti
A current topic in the national real estate media is the gradual decline, in the last 3 months, of listed properties selling for over the original asking price. In September 2020, just under 30% of A current topic in the national real estate media is thehomes, gradual decline, in the last three ofSan listed properties nationally, sold above the list price, whilemonths, in our greater Francisco Bay Area itselling was The30% national continued upward this year’s market, while betweenin our for over the original asking price. In September 2020, just 56%.* under of percentages homes nationally, soldinto above the spring list price, February and June, and have gradually waned off those highs during the summer and between into the greater San Francisco Bay Area it was 56%.* The national percentages continued upward into this year’s spring market, early fall months. We are going to look at our local sales numbers from April 1-April 30, 2021 February and June, and have gradually waned off those highs duringthem thetosummer into the early months. are going to and compare Septemberand 17th-October 17th, 2021 fall and see how our We local community look at our local sales numbers from April 1-April 30, 2021 compare them to September 17-October 17, 2021 and see how fairsand regarding this topic.
our local community fairs regarding this topic. In April 2021, 256 detached properties sold in the greater Danville Area, which includes Alamo, Blackhawk, Danville, Diablo, and San Ramon. Of the 256 sold, an astounding 220 received offers that closed escrow above the list price. That’s 85.9% of all detached homes closing in our community. The median entry price for April was $1,662,500 and the ultimate median selling price topped out at $1,897,500. A total of 36 ** ** properties did not go over their original list price, accounting for 14.1% of properties in our entire market for that month. In April 2021, 256 detached properties sold in the greater Danville Area, which includes Alamo, When we fast forward to the present fall period, the seasonal transition to our current market provides some interesting numbers. Between the period Blackhawk, Danville, Diablo and San Ramon. Of the 256 sold, an astounding 220 received just prior to this writing, September 17-October 17, 163 properties closed escrow. Of those properties, 134theclosed price,homes equaling offers that closed escrow above list price.over That’stheir 85.9%listing of all detached closing 82.2% in our community. The median entry price for April was $1,662,500 and the ultimate median of total properties sold. The median entry price was $1,750,000, a 5.2% price increase from the April entry median. The median closing priceselling reached out at $1,897,500. A total of 36 properties did not go over their original list price, $1,927,500. A slight 1.5% price increase from the April median high of sold homes.price Oftopped the 163 closed properties, 29 did not surpass their original listing accounting for 14.1% of properties in our entire market for that month. price, totaling 17.7% of the listings this past period. When we fast to themarket? present fall During period, theSeptember, seasonal transition our current market Bay What can we take away from our comparison of the April and early fall sales numbers in forward our local thetoSan Francisco provides some numbers. Between periodgo justover prior to thisprice writing,in Sept. 17th-Oct. Area saw 71% of home sales going over list price, with an average of $90,000 above asking.* Ourinteresting local community saw the 82.2% list September17th, 163 properties closed escrow. Of those properties, 134 closed over their listing price, October. Showing that our greater Danville area is leading the way in this category within Bayof Area as a whole. Atmedian first sight, thewas 3.7% difference equalingthe 82.2% total properties sold. The entry price $1,750,000, a 5.2%between price the April sales going over asking and September-October sales seem to be a mere seasonal However, theThe difference in overall sold$1,927,500. inventory in April increase decline. from the April entry median. median closing price reached A slight 1.5% price from the median homes high of sold homes. escrow Of the 163in closed properties, 29 versus our current fall period is the most glaring variable for us to take note of here. There is aincrease difference ofApril 93 more closing April compared did not surpass their original listing price, totalling 17.7% of the listings this past period. to now. That’s a 36.3% decrease in properties available to potential buyers, which has resulted in the percentage of homes going over the asking price this fall to stay elevated and keep pace just below the April high mark. This fall inventory crunch continued market theme ofearly quality homes, What canhas we take away from a our2021 comparison of the April and fall sales numberswhich in our are market? During September, San Francisco Areago sawinto 71% the of home sales going of priced correctly from recent comparable sales, receiving multiple offers from buyerslocal with few alternatives to the choose from. Bay As we later months over list price, with an average of $90,000 above asking.* Our local community saw 82.2% in fall and into the winter market, will this pace of properties going over list price continue? Time can only tell. What we can say is that our local market is strong Sept.-Oct. Showing that our greater Danville area is leading the way in this category within the and this past year has been a historically favorable time to sell as a homeowner! Bay Area as a whole. At first sight, the 3.7% difference between the April sales going over askingfor andclose Sept.-Oct. seem10 to be a merenow. seasonal decline. However, the difference in I hope you found this article helpful. I’ve been serving our real estate community to sales the last years Ron Gatti, my business partner sold inventory in April versus currentare fall period is the most glaring variable for us to and father, has been a full-time real estate professional for over 40 years, all in theoverall greater Danville area. Weourboth Associate Brokers with Compass based out of the 15 Railroad office in downtown Danville. If you have any real estate questions during this extraordinary time, or have questions about this article please email GattiRealEstate@gmail.com or call Joe Gatti at 925-588-3590. Our services are here for you! *Figures cited from Imannews article “As list prices continue to soar, not all homebuyers are willing to play ball” by Daniel Houston 10/15/2021, **Data taken from the MLS during specific dates and under the criteria mentioned within the article.
Recent Recent Activity Activity in in Your Your Community! Community!
As Danville Danville Natives, Natives, We We Know Know Danville Danville and and the the San San Ramon Ramon Valley Valley As As Danville Natives, We Know Danville and the San Ramon Valley Sold Sold $260k $260k Sold Over Over $260k Asking Asking Over Asking
Pending Pending Over Over Pending Asking Asking Over Asking
32 Liberta Liberta Ct, Ct, Danville Danville 32 BdLiberta Bth || 1,936 1,936 SqFt .38 AC AC || $1,599,000 $1,599,000 32 Ct,SqFt Danville 44 Bd || 22 Bth || .38
Ideal single story onAC an| expansive expansive flat lot! lot! The The 4 Bd Glenview |Glenview 2 Bth | 1,936 SqFt | .38 $1,599,000flat Ideal single story on an kitchen/dining room leads to a flagstone paved dining Ideal Glenview single story on an expansive flat lot! The kitchen/dining room leads to a flagstone paved dining pavilion, fireplace, and built-in BBQ. Private backyard gate kitchen/dining room leads to aBBQ. flagstone paved dininggate pavilion, fireplace, and built-in Private backyard leads to Iron Horse Trail. A short distance from Osage pavilion, fireplace, Private backyard leads to Iron Horse and Trail.built-in A shortBBQ. distance from Osage gate Park, Glenview SwimTrail. Club, Charlotte Wood, andOsage Baldwin leadsGlenview to Iron Horse ACharlotte short distance from Park, Swim Club, Wood, and Baldwin Elementary. Park, Glenview Swim Club, Charlotte Wood, and Baldwin Elementary.
115 Camino Camino Encanto, Encanto, Westside Westside Danville Danville 115 4 Beds | 3 Bath | 2,305 SqFt | .26 AC | Sold for $2,455,000 $2,455,000 115 Camino Encanto, Westside Danville 4 Beds | 3 Bath | 2,305 SqFt | .26 AC | Sold for
First time| on on market in 31 31 years! years! Prime Westside Danville 4 Beds 3 Bath | 2,305 SqFt | Prime .26 ACWestside | Sold for $2,455,000 First time market in Danville location! Close to downtown and Iron Horse Trail! Updated First time on market in 31 years! Prime Westside location! Close to downtown and Iron Horse Trail!Danville Updated kitchen and expanded guest primary bedroom/possible au location! Close to downtown and Iron Horse Trail! Updated kitchen and expanded guest primary bedroom/possible au pair space. Backyard deck that leads to to pool. pool. Near Near awardawardkitchen andBackyard expanded guest primary bedroom/possible au pair space. deck that leads winning schools. pair space. Backyard deck that leads to pool. Near awardwinning schools. winning schools.
Sold Sold $105K $105K Sold Over Over $105K Asking Asking Over Asking
357 Cordell Cordell Drive, Drive, Westside Westside Danville Danville 357 4 Beds | 3 Baths | 2,666 Sq Ft | .5 AC Sold for for $2,300,000 $2,300,000 357 Cordell Drive, Westside 4 Beds | 3 Baths | 2,666 Sq Ft | .5 ACDanville || Sold
Westside Danville location on one ofAC the| most most 4 Beds | Danville 3 Baths location | 2,666 on Sq one Ft | .5 Sold for $2,300,000 Westside of the sought-after streets. Located on flatthe 1/2most acre, the the future future Westside Danville location onon one of sought-after streets. Located aa flat 1/2 acre, home possibilities are endless. A short distance from the Iron Iron sought-after streets. a flatdistance 1/2 acre,from the future home possibilities areLocated endless. on A short the Horse Trail, and award-winning schools. home possibilities are endless. A short distance from the Iron Horse Trail, and award-winning schools. Horse Trail, and award-winning schools.
Elementary.
Call us us regarding regarding Call Call us how our ourregarding Compass how Compass how our Compass Concierge and Bridge Bridge Concierge and Concierge and Loan programs programsBridge can Loan can Loan programs can help you! you! help help you!
gattirealestate.com gattirealestate.com gattirealestate.com
Joe Gatti Gatti Joe Joe Gatti Broker Associate Broker Associate Broker Associate 925.588.3590 925.588.3590 925.588.3590 gattirealestate@gmail.com gattirealestate@gmail.com gattirealestate@gmail.com DRE 01914487 DRE 01914487 DRE 01914487
Ron Gatti Gatti Ron Ron Gatti Broker Associate Broker Associate Broker Associate 925.596.1972 925.596.1972 925.596.1972 gattirealestate@gmail.com gattirealestate@gmail.com gattirealestate@gmail.com DRE 00623995 DRE 00623995 DRE 00623995
Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01527235. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from Compass is a realreliable estate but broker the State of California abides sale by Equal Housing may Opportunity License Number 01527235. All material presentedofherein is intendedAllformeasurements informational and purposes and is compiled from sources deemed haslicensed not beenby verified. Changes in price,and condition, or withdrawal be madelaws. without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy any description. squareonly footage are approximate. sources deemed reliable has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, withdrawal be made without notice.Number No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All for measurements square only footage approximate. Compass is a real estatebut broker licensed by the State of California and abidessale by or Equal Housingmay Opportunity laws. License 01527235. All material presented herein is intended informationaland purposes andare is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footage are approximate.
PAGE 8 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • November 2021
SRV GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY
The San Ramon Valley Genealogical Society (SRVGS) was organized in 1985 to provide its members with resources, assistance, and educational opportunities that help them successfully research their ancestry. The group publishes a monthly newsletter and offers monthly meetings of small groups with common interests to discuss their specific areas of research. SRVGS also provides resources ranging from a large selection of reference books to information on local genealogical libraries. Classes are also offered for the beginning researcher and those interested in genetic DNA. You are invited to join the Tuesday, November 16th, 10AM ZOOM meeting with a presentation by Pam Vestal, APG, entitled “Absent Ancestors and Hidden Clues.” Why haven’t you found your ancestors in the records? Documents are often hidden from view, with information that is present but concealed, stored in a place or manner that is unexpected, misspelled, indexed incorrectly, or separated from other similar records. Pam will explore strategies for tracking down these elusive ancestors so that you don’t miss a singe detail. Pam is a professional genealogist and speaker from West Linn, Oregon, and the owner of Generations Genealogy, LLC. After 20 years as a professional writer, Pam turned her full attention to her long-time love of genealogy. Since then, her articles have appeared in the Association of Professional Genealogists Quarterly and FGS’s Forum magazine. Her lectures take her from coast to coast. Currently, Pam offers genealogical research for clients and works one-on-one with aspiring genealogists who want to improve their skills. Pam has spoken at the Southern California Genealogy Jamboree and lectured at regional genealogical conferences and societies in Illinois, Texas, and Virginia. Her website is www.generationsgen.com. To become a member of SRVGS, visit srvgensoc.org, and click on the “Join SRVGS” tab on the left side of the home page. To attend as a guest, please email your request to Steve Watty at president@srvgensoc.org.
DANVILLE AREA CHAMBER MIXER TO BE HELD IN ALAMO
Mark your calendars for the evening of Thursday, November 11th at 5:30PM. For the first time in years, the Danville Area Chamber Mixer will be held in Alamo, at Alamo World Travel. Alamo World Travel is located upstairs in the Alamo Commons center, located at 3201 Danville Blvd, Suite 255 in Alamo. If you are a business owner, especially in Alamo, please plan to attend the November mixer, and talk to like-minded local business owners. If you are not a Chamber member, plan to attend and see what you missing! For questions or more information, visit www.alamoword.com or call 925-835-8742.
SAN RAMON VALLEY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY By Jamie Westgate, Principal
Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday, so I gladly welcome in the month of November! Especially after living through the challenges of a pandemic, I think we are all aware of new reasons to be grateful. Just recently in our Parent Teacher Fellowship meeting, I asked parents to quiet themselves to listen to the voices of our children outside at recess. The laughter, chatting, gleeful screaming, and other joyful noises flooded our room and brought smiles to our faces. Despite the challenges that we each face individually, we couldn’t help but notice how normal things seemed for our elementary students. We all paused and gave thanks that our children seem to be able to experience joy even during these challenging times. This month, we also pause to give thanks for our country’s veterans. Our students look forward to hosting a special Veteran’s Day chapel on November 12. Families have been submitting photos of loved ones who served our country. As a result, students are learning family history about parents, grandparents, and greatgrandparents who sacrificially served our country and/or supported a spouse who served. It has been a great opportunity to explore the benefits of living in a democracy and the nobleness of responding to the call of duty. Later this school year, our 8th grade students will visit many war and military memorials in our nation’s capitol where we further our understanding of commitment and sacrifice. As we settle into this beautiful season, may we be thankful for a God who loves and cares deeply for us despite life’s highs and lows. Psalm 30:12 reminds us, “Oh Lord my God, I will give you thanks forever.” Happy Thanksgiving!
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HIGH SCHOOL JUNIORS HONORED BY AMERICAN LEGION
Students in the San Ramon Valley were recognized and honored at a special luncheon ceremony held at the Veterans Memorial Building hosted by American Legion Mt. Diablo Post 246. These young men and women were selected by Post 246 and attended the Boys and Girls State Programs for seven days in June 2021, where they learned about how government works from the municipal and the state level by actually practicing it. They were initially grouped into cities and established a fully functional government, next they formed county governments, and then finally established a complete state government. While all held various offices and appointed positions, one of the boys was elected State governor! Delegates attending Girls State are Michelle Chen, Monte Vista High School; Pujitha Nachuri, Dougherty Valley High School; Hollis Carey, The Athenian School; Evelyn Howard, San Ramon Valley High School; and Evelyn Ramos, California High School.
Delegates attending Boys State are Matthew Jao, Dougherty Valley High School; Jonathan Ng, Dougherty Valley High School; Aidan Nichols, San Ramon Valley High School; Dylan Purandare, San Ramon Valley High School; Andrew Howard, San Ramon Valley High School; Chad McElroy, Athenian School; Ethan Arnold, Athenian School; Jake Okwubanego, Athenian School; and Armin Bozorgi, California High School.
At the luncheon, students gave speeches detailing their experiences at the program. All students were presented with a Legion Certificate of Appreciation for contributing to the program and awarded an American Legion Boys or Girls State Medal by the honorable Mayor Renee Morgan, Town of Danville, and Post Commander Mark Heinemann. Additional honored guests included: The honorable Newell Arnerich, Danville Vice Mayor; Vicki Bean, District 9 President and District 9 Girls State Chair, and her husband, Jim Bean, an Army veteran; Linda Workman, Western Division National Poppy Chair, President Unit 161, and Past Dept President; Mark Van Warmerdam, an Alumnus of Boys State, and Tullie Gottlieb, CoDirectors of College Counseling, Athenian High School; Amanda Maino, President, Rotary Club of Dougherty Valley / San Ramon; and Claudia Nemit, Program Chair and Girls State Alumna, Mt Diablo Chapter DAR.
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November 2021 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 9
DUDUM REAL ESTATE GROUP W H E R E R E A L E S TAT E I S S T I L L P E R S O N A L
COMING SOON
NEW
ACTIVE
PENDING
747 LIQUIDAMBER PLACE, DANVILLE 3 BEDS, 2 BATHS, 2,782 SF, 0.23 ACRE LOT
7364 LIMERICK COURT, DUBLIN 4 BEDS, 2 BATHS, 1,340SF, 0.16 ACRE LOT
457 RYAN TERRACE, SAN RAMON 3 BEDS, 3.5 BATHS, 1,956 SF
OFFERED AT $1,899,000 SUZY PECK | 925.200.2988
OFFERED AT $978,000
2470 CABALLO RANCHERO, DIABLO 4 BEDS, 4.5 BATHS, 5,081 SF, 1.33 ACRE LOT OFFERED AT $3,695,000
MEREDITH & BONNIE KUMMELL | 925.984.1344
BRYAN HURLBUT | 925.383.5500
ALISON PETERSEN | 925.984.7214
OFFERED AT $960,000
PENDING
PENDING
SOLD
SOLD
225 RIVERTON PLACE, SAN RAMON 3 BEDS, 2 BATHS, 1,288 SF, 0.16 ACRE LOT
3146 GREY EAGLE DRIVE, WALNUT CREEK 3 BEDS, 2 BATHS, 1,786 SF
3002 ROSSMOOR PKWY #5, WALNUT CREEK 2 BEDS, 2 BATHS, 1,444 SF
3303 FREEMAN ROAD, LAFAYETTE 5 BEDS, 3.5 BATHS, 2,733 SF, 0.67 ACRE LOT
OFFERED AT $1,148,000
OFFERED AT $1,295,000
SOLD FOR $900,000
SOLD FOR $2,150,000
MEREDITH & BONNIE KUMMELL | 925.984.1344
EVA ELDERTS | 925.984.7214
SUZY PECK | 925.200.2988
DON & PAMELA COLOMBANA | 925.878.8047
SOLD - REPRESENTED BUYER
SOLD - REPRESENTED BUYER
SOLD - REPRESENTED BUYER
SOLD - REPRESENTED BUYER
502 CAMBRIAN WAY, DANVILLE 2 BEDS, 2 BATHS, 1,436 SF, 0.08 ACRE LOT
103 POPPY COURT, WALNUT CREEK 5 BEDS, 3.5 BATHS, 3,114 SF, 0.47 ACRE LOT
123 BRIA COURT, WALNUT CREEK 5 BEDS, 3 BATHS, 2,908 SF, 0.31 ACRE LOT
326 GOLDEN GRASS DRIVE, ALAMO 6 BEDS, 4.5 BATHS, 5,296 SF, 0.43 ACRE LOT
SOLD FOR $1,249,000 SUZY PECK | 925.200.2988
SOLD FOR $2,100,000
SOLD FOR $2,205,000
SOLD FOR $3,650,000
MARGY LYMAN | 925.963.6380
DON & PAMELA COLOMBANA | 925.878.8047
DON & PAMELA COLOMBANA | 925.878.8047
ALISON J. PETERSEN 925.984.7214
BONNE WERSEL 510.304.3303
BRYAN HURLBUT 925.383.5500
DANI O’CONNELL 925.786.2176
REALTOR® | DRE#01177737
REALTOR® | DRE# 01173288
REALTOR® | DRE# 01347508
BROKER ASSOCIATE DRE# 01892167
DON & PAMELA COLOMBANA 925.878.8047 925.482.4142
EVA ELDERTS 925.726.9409 REALTOR® | DRE# 02039328
REALTORS® DRE# 01979180 / 01979181
JOHN FONDNAZIO 925.817.9053
KORY MADGE 925.366.9899
MARGY LYMAN 925.963.6380
REALTOR® | DRE# 01938194
REALTOR® | DRE# 01345227
REALTOR® | DRE# 02067680
DRE# 01882902
WWW.DUDUM.COM
DANVILLE
WALNUT CREEK
MEREDITH & BONNIE KUMMELL 925.984.1344 925.980.9952
SCOTT & FONIA HUMPHRIES 925.298.2249 925.998.4444
REALTORS® DRE# 00905114 / 01364056
REALTOR® / BROKER DRE# 02078065 / 01019063
LAMORINDA
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SUZY PECK 925.200.2988 REALTOR® | DRE# 01224695
Distinctive Properties
©2021 The information herein was obtained by sources deemed to be reliable by Dudum Real Estate Group. Dudum Real Estate group has not independently verified the information contained herein and therefore, assumes no legal responsibility for its accuracy. Buyer should investigate any matters or items disclosed, identified or about which they have concerns to their own satisfaction. DRE Lic. 01882902
PAGE 10 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • November 2021
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MONTE VISTA HIGH
By Dr. Kevin Ahern, Principal
With Monte Vista (MV) completing a very busy October, we are looking forward to Thanksgiving break and the last few weeks of the fall semester. There has been a lot happening at MV and we are happy to share what’s going on in and around our campus. Monte Vista Homecoming 2021 provided a week of amazing festivities and celebrations for our students and our community. Months of planning culminated in a weekend of fantastic events beginning with MV’s Homecoming carnival and tailgate party followed by the Homecoming game against Livermore. At halftime, we introduced the latest class of MV’s Hall of Fame inductees and we witnessed stellar performances by our cheer and pom squads. The next evening, we enjoyed an equally spectacular Homecoming dance where over 1,800 MV students enjoyed and celebrated our return to school. I want to extend a huge thank you to MV Activities Director, Tommy Greenless and his leadership classes; MV Athletic Director, Andy Popper for organizing the Hall of Fame induction; MV’s Athletic Boosters; and all of our parent volunteers and organizations who contributed their time and energy to make this a truly outstanding community event. Also, I want to thank our students for coming together to make Homecoming 2021 a special event. Whether you are on the football team, in the marching band, in cheer/pom, leadership, or just came to enjoy the event, you made our Homecoming awesome! Recently all 10th and 11th graders at MV had the opportunity to take the PSAT, which is a national preparatory exam for the SAT. In addition, we also offered an administration of the SAT for seniors as well as some juniors. I am proud of our students for pushing themselves by taking this assessment. Towards the end of October, members of MV’s junior and sophomore classes, as well as numerous staff members took part in our annual “Breaking Down the Walls” program. In this program, students spend one day out of the week connecting and/or re-connecting with one another, listening to their peers’ personal stories, and building a positive school culture. We are proud to bring this program to MV’s students and are thankful to our community for their donations in support of it. MVs Visual and Performing Arts programs are returning to the stage as they begin their fall and holiday performances. MV’s Choir performed their Bach to School concert and our fall play is scheduled for November 4th – 6th. We look forward to seeing our students share their talents through these amazing programs. MV Athletics have continued to roll through EBAL competition and into the NCS playoffs. MV women’s golf, women’s tennis, and men’s and women’s cross country are all on the verge of EBAL championships and are making their final pushes to bring another banner to our campus. Men’s and women’s water polo and women’s volleyball are also finishing strong and vying for playoff spots. Finally, MV football is finishing October with a trio of slugfests beginning with Cal High, then Clayton Valley, and last, our annual rivalry game with San Ramon Valley. We look forward to seeing our Mustangs in action against the very best teams in our area and we look forward to sharing their successes with you. We invite everyone from the MV community to come out and support the Mustangs this next month.
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CATCH UP ON SOME “Zs”
GIVING THANKS By Jaime Kaiman, Monte Vista High, junior
It’s hard to believe that we are already folding up our shorts, sun dresses, and short-sleeve t-shirts, and bringing out our jeans, sweaters, and sweatshirts. November is here, and that means we only have one month left until we embark on another new year. To a lot of kids out there, November represents the calm before the storm. In November, students work hard to raise their grades and pay extra close attention in class, because we know what’s headed for us in December...finals. November is the month of giving thanks to many different things, and it truly is a month of comfort for many people. I’m extremely thankful to be back in school again. I know a lot of students probably would have never thought the day in which they said they were thankful to be back in a classroom would come, but after last year, many people are extremely grateful to be back. I’m also glad to be able to ask teachers questions in person again. Sometimes I would ask a question on Zoom, and I wouldn’t be able to hear the answer because of a bad wifi connection. Then I would be left just as lost as I was before I asked. I’m even grateful to hear the bell that always signifies the beginning and end of school (though I am somewhat more fond of hearing it at the end of the day than the beginning). Additionally, I am thankful to be able to safely hang out with my friends again. It’s the little things that I missed like eating lunch together, or talking in the hallway before class started. Also, it’s so wonderful to be participating in clubs in-person again. My friend and I started a club at school together, and we had our first meeting a few weeks ago. It was so great to see everyone’s faces. Some people may wonder if school is the same with all of the precautions that need to be taken with Covid. The answer is yes, it is pretty much the same. The precautions we’re taking don’t obstruct our learning or how much fun we have with our friends. Especially during the autumn and winter, it’s nice to have masks because it protects us from catching other sicknesses we all seem to get around this time. I’ve also noticed that the masks can also keep our noses warm, so that’s another benefit. Overall, there’s a lot of things to be thankful for this November. As the leaves are changing, this world is, too. Last year, we had no idea when we would be able to hang-out with our friends in-person again, or when we would be able to have a safe Thanksgiving with family over again. This year we have made so much progress, and we are able to do these things. I hope you can find something to be grateful for this month, whether it be your friends, family, or just the warmth from the fireplace. If anything, please be thankful to yourself for growing, and for getting through the craziness of last year.
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VALLEY VIGNETTE By Beverly Lane
DAN INMAN, DANVILLE’S FOUNDER ~ PART 1
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In March of 1858, over 160 years ago, Dan Inman purchased 400 acres in today’s downtown Danville. Danville counts its anniversary from that purchase, celebrating its centennial in 1958. In a letter 40 years later, Inman wrote that he had been gold mining in 1857 and “In March of the following year I came into the valley once more --- this time for good -- and purchased a farm where Danville is now located, of a man named Pigmore. I went to farming and seeded the lands with wheat that winter.” In 1849, while in their early twenties, Dan, his brother Andrew, and a friend named Jesse Bowles, traveled to California. Like so many young men, the lure of the fabulous California gold rush sent them west. Dan was born in Tennessee in 1827, grew up and went to common school in Illinois, learned farming as a boy, and then apprenticed as a cooper (making wooden barrels, casks, and tubs). He had started his own business when the gold rush beckoned. Unlike so many miners, the Inman brothers were successful. With $3,000 they had earned, they opened a boarding house in Sacramento near the river that first winter, only to have winter floods ruin the property. Returning to the mines, they worked around Hangtown, Grass Valley, French Corral, Downieville, Middle Fork, Grass Valley, and Auburn. In 1852 the brothers moved to Danville, bought a farm in Green Valley and raised cattle and sheep together for several years. Andrew settled down, married Ann Young, built a fine house, and ran large flocks of sheep from Green Valley all over the western Mount Diablo foothills. He later donated land for the first Green Valley Grammar School. But Dan went back to mining, returning to the valley for visits. At one point he, Jesse Bowles, and a Mr. Bixby tried to grow tobacco on 30 acres south of Danville, which didn’t make a profit. Later, Dan bought a mine in El Dorado using a new technique, hydraulic mining, which was very profitable. With these funds, he bought property at the intersection of the county road and San Ramon Creek in 1858. In the Sentinel, dated January 1898, Dan Inman wrote this letter: “In the summer of 1859 a man named Davis came along and wanted to start a blacksmith shop where the one now stands (Close’s) and I gave him permission to do so. He sold out that winter to Jim Johnson, now deceased. Johnson soon after sold to Simon Whitmore. “Then a man named Long started a wheelwright shop. About the same time H.W. Harris started a hotel, and Wolff & Cohen a store. “Then the people of the valley wanted a post office. Of course it had to have a name, and quite a number were suggested. At first they thought of calling it Inmanville, but my brother Andrew and I objected to that. “Finally, Grandma Young, my brother’s mother-in-law, said, ‘Call it Danville,’ and, as much or more out of respect for her, as she was born and raised near Danville, Kentucky, it took that name.” Harris called his hotel the Danville Hotel in Dan’s honor even before the community was named. It was on the northwest corner of today’s Diablo Road and Front Street. He became the first Danville postmaster in 1860. Michael Cohen built a general store on Front Street (the county road) and moved into a house built by the Howard brothers in 1866. This is now the Cohen/Vecki House located at 169 Front St.. The census stated he and wife Matilda were born in France, their three children were born in California and their cook, Jim Ah, came from China. Cohen was postmaster for 20 years beginning in 1865. Inman farmed his land east of the creek and sold properties along Front St. for the first Danville stores and houses. He used his cooper training and built coffins, and created the first fine carriages in the county. And he had interests beyond making a living. He was a popular speaker at Fourth of July events in the 1850s. In 1863 he ran unsuccessfully for County Sheriff as a Democrat during the Civil War when Republicans persuaded voters that to vote Democrat would be disloyal. He and Andrew were southern sympathizers along with many other valley residents. The year 1863, had a happy ending for Dan when he married Josephine Jones in November. The daughter Dan and Josephine Inman of Alamo pioneers John and Mary Jones, Josephine had her own unique history. In 1846, her parents and two sisters made it over the Sierras just before the early snows which trapped the Donner Party. John was sick and Mary did much of the grueling driving and work, all while she was expecting a baby. The family landed in Chiles Valley that winter and Josephine was born in January of 1847. Next month, we’ll learn about new ventures for the Inmans. Sources: Rick Dressen, Daniel Inman, Namesake of Danville, 1993 J. M. Guinn, History of the State of California, 1904; James D. Smith, Recollections, 1995; J. P. Munro-Fraser, History of Contra Costa County, 1882; Museum of the San Ramon Valley archives.
CLARIFICATION: In the August article, Valley Vignettes, by Beverly Lane, Beverly only discussed the Alamo Cemetery and the San Ramon Valley boundaries of the Alamo-Lafayette Cemetery District. The Cemetery District also includes Lafayette and Walnut Creek, and operates the Lafayette Cemetery. In-ground burials are no longer available in the Alamo Cemetery but niche interments are still available. The Lafayette Cemetery has both burials and niches available. Interments, both burial and niche, are only available to District residents. Check with the District office in Lafayette to confirm District residence.
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PAGE 12 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • November 2021
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QUICK TRIPS By Linda Summers Pirkle
A PLACE FOR REFLECTION
Turning a corner on a recent hike in the hills above Orinda, I came across a circular path made of large stones. You may have seen similar pathways in the most obscure places in your travels here and abroad. Walking a labyrinth pathway has been a spiritual and meditative practice for thousands of years. A New York Times article dated 1998 said public awareness and the rediscovery of the labyrinth has created “the Labyrinth Movement.” One of the most well-known labyrinths is in the 13th century Gothic cathedral, Notre Dame, in Chartres, France. If you wanted to live in a charming city with easy accessibility to Paris, you might choose Chartres. In the middle of the Beauce region, the wheat growing area of France, the town with a population of 38,000, is a 55-minute train ride from Gare Montparnasse in Paris. The lovely town has been a pilgrimage site for centuries. Chartres Cathedral is known for its gorgeous stained-glass windows, which are the most beautiful in the world, and the cathedral is one of the best-preserved examples of French Gothic architecture. It also houses the veil of the Virgin Mary, an important relic of the church, and the magnificent inlaid stone labyrinth on the floor of the nave of the cathedral, Peace Lutheran Labyrinth. Photo by Lars Howlett. all reasons that pilgrims for centuries have traveled to Chartres and continue to do so. Its historical and cultural importance has been recognized by its inclusion on the UNESCO list of World Heritage sites. We do not need to travel to France to walk a labyrinth. Closer to home, there are several labyrinths (find them at https://bit.ly/3vv8bsA) including a memorial labyrinth at Hap Magee Park, one at Saint Timothy’s Episcopal Church, and also one at Peace Lutheran Church, all in Danville. The Peace Lutheran site is home to the oldest labyrinth in Contra Costa County. Pastor Steve Harms shared, “Peace Lutheran Church created the first labyrinth in Contra Costa County in 2000. The Labyrinth is for walking meditation, a centering practice that leads to clarity and calm. Labyrinth walking is ancient in origin but gently and gracefully guides one to a refreshing experience of the present moment. Always open to the community, the Peace outdoor labyrinth is surrounded by a beautiful garden and interfaith Peace mosaic.” Drawn by Robert Ferre, and painted by a local artist, the Danville Peace labyrinth is a full-size Chartres replica with a variation of widened turns for visibility and accessibility. One of seven master builders of labyrinths, Lars Howlett recently restored the Peace labyrinth with Granitite, a crushed stone overlay. Lars explained, “It was a special project in that I was able to recreate the pattern that my mentor, Master Builder Robert Ferre, had once laid out, extending the life of his creation and the labyrinth for the community.” Pastor Steve Harms commented that the newly restored labyrinth has remained open all these years but especially during this past year of COVID, there have been many more people walking it and some on a very regular basis. “Tremendous gratitude has been expressed because the labyrinth and gardens have anchored people with an experience of sanity and beauty,” he said. “The labyrinth can be walked alone, but for me, there is always a profound dimension revealed when groups share the labyrinth at special gatherings. When passing people moving in different directions on the path, whether we make eye contact or not, there is a beautiful and haunting experience of being on a pilgrimage through life together. We may or may not know each other. We may never see each other again. But here we are in this present moment sharing this exquisite gift of life.” The next group Labyrinth Walk at Peace Lutheran will be the I-SRV (Interfaith of San Ramon Valley) Thanksgiving Walk on Sunday, November 21st at 1:30PM. There will be music, instructions on how to walk a labyrinth (if needed), and a reception. Please bring canned goods for the Food Bank. Peace Lutheran is located at 3201 Camino Tassajara, in Danville. Their phone number is 925-648-7000. Email is office@peacejourney.org. The Hap Magee Park Labyrinth is located at 1025 La Gonda Way, in Danville. The Saint Timothy’s labyrinth is located at 1550 Diablo Rd. in Danville. Linda Summers Pirkle, travel writer, Francophile, consultant and long-term Danville resident, has arranged and led tours for the Town of Danville for several years. She is currently working on a guide featuring off-the-beaten-path destinations. To share your “Quick Trips” ideas, email Coverthemap@gmail.com.
HOSPICE TREE OF LIGHTS
Hospice East Bay (HEB) has been caring for patients and their families in our community since 1977. They are proud to be celebrating their 35th annual Tree of Lights. These Tree of Lights ceremonies set aside time for families and friends to honor their loved ones through the symbolism of light and the reading of names. Many Tree of Lights ceremonies will take place. The nearest will be held in: • Alamo ~ Tuesday, November 23rd, 5PM • Blackhawk ~ Friday, December 10th, 5PM • Danville ~ Friday, November 19th, 5:30PM • Rossmoor ~ Thursday, November 4th, 4:30PM • Walnut Creek ~ Tuesday, November 30th, 6PM For addresses and other ceremony sites visit hospiceeastbay.org/tol. Funds raised by these events help HEB provide hospice and palliative care services to everyone in our communities, regardless of their ability to pay. Through your gifts, HEB also offers additional supportive services and programs, such as music therapy and children’s grief programs, which are not covered by insurance. For any questions, please contact Annie Lobo at 925-887-5678, 925-5253357, or annl@hospiceeastbay.org.
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DANVILLE LIONS CLUB
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The Danville Lions Club meets virtually at 6:30PM on the first Tuesday and third Wednesday of every month. Danville Lions Club raises funds and provide services to those in need, both locally and worldwide through fun and gratifying projects. Lions are well known for successful initiatives in vision health. Please contact Nancy for a guest connection to the next Zoom meeting at nbircher@ mac.com Visit www.e-clubhouse.org/sites/danvilleca to learn more. For club information, contact Truman Howard at 925-787-2565.
Facebook: Alamo Today & Danville Today News | editor@yourmonthlypaper.com November 2021 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 13
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HELP VESTIA GIVE BACK DURING THE HOLIDAYS By County Supervisor Candace Andersen
This holiday season, not every Contra Costa County resident will be able to enjoy lavish feasts or an abundance of presents underneath a towering, manicured tree. There are some that may not even have a warm place to sleep during the cold fall and winter nights. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated several of the issues our County was in the process of working to overcome prior to March 2020. With many individuals now out of a job entirely, or grappling with reduced work hours, problems involving housing and food security are more glaring than ever. For those in need in our County, there are many places to turn to for help. With several organizations and a network of generous residents, there are resources year-round. Many charities place an emphasis on serving children during the holiday season. Every child deserves to enjoy a magical Christmas, Hannukah, or other special holiday with gifts to open. For the past 35 years, Pleasant Hill-based VESTIA (Volunteer Emergency Services Team in Action) has worked to make this possible. VESTIA, a 501(c)(3) non-profit partner of the Contra Costa County Employment and Human Services Department (EHSD), strives to provide supplemental support to at-risk individuals and families. Through its partnership with EHSD, VESTIA offers its annual Holiday Helpers Warehouse, connecting community donors ranging from service groups, corporations, churches, schools, and individuals, with Contra Costa residents in need. Many of the residents are referred to the program by an EHSD social worker. Due to the pandemic, last year VESTIA’s Holiday Helpers shifted away from a toy giveaway program to providing direct funding support to community-based organizations serving low-income families in Contra Costa County. To have the greatest impact again this year, all donations to Holiday Helpers will help VESTIA support these organizations that offer services to children and families in need throughout the county. The Angel Tree program specifically serves approximately 1,800 foster care children in Contra Costa. Again, this year, in lieu of wrapped gifts, donor “Angels”
will be providing $50 gift cards to children in the program. Angel Tree is an opportunity to tell these children that they matter and that they are not forgotten. If you can donate, please visit www.vestiainc.org to choose the program you would like to support. VESTIA is also in need of hygiene kits, convenience kits, and snack kits for EHSD’s homeless clients. You can purchase these items on Amazon. Due to the ongoing pandemic, VESTIA is only taking these in-kind donations by mail. You can send donations to the VESTIA office at 400 Ellinwood Way, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523, or drop them off at my Danville office at 309 Diablo Road, Monday through Friday between 9AM and 4PM. All donations are tax deductible. For more information about VESTIA and its services, visit vestiainc.org. My office is here to serve the residents of Contra Costa County District 2, which includes San Ramon, Danville, Alamo, Walnut Creek, Saranap, Parkmead, Lafayette, Moraga, Canyon, and Orinda. Please 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.
NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH
Neighborhood Watch is a community action and problem-solving program, and one of the most effective means available for resolving issues within your community. Through organized problem-solving activities, your block can remove crime from your neighborhood and address any community issues that concern residents. The Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff will be hosting meetings via Zoom. If you have any questions or are interested in finding out more information, please email the Community Services Unit at csu@so.cccounty.us.
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26th until January 9th, stop by 294 Railroad Ave., Danville for a new family fun activity to celebrate the season.
SANTA’S MAILBOX
Santa has a mailbox at the Danville Community Center located at 420 Front St. in Danville. Bring your letters to Santa between November 28th and December 9th and a return letter should arrive before December 24th. Make sure to include your name and mailing address.
PAGE 14 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • November 2021
CLIP NOTES
By Jody Morgan
The tantalizing aroma of spices and herbs enhances anticipation of forthcoming Thanksgiving fare. Harriet Beecher Stowe (1811-1896) was concerned when she penned Oldtown Folks (1869) that her contemporaries had lost touch with the arduous, yet enthusiastically accomplished tasks that characterized early 19th century preparations. The fictitious village of Oldtown is based on Natick, Massachusetts, her husband Calvin Ellis Stowe’s hometown. I suspect she draws upon memories from her own childhood spent in Litchfield, Connecticut, in her chapter devoted exclusively to Thanksgiving. “In those days there were none of the thousand ameliorations of the labor of housekeeping which have since arisen, -- no ground and prepared spices and sweet herbs; everything came into our hands in the rough, and in bulk, and the reducing of it into a state for use was deemed one of the appropriate labors of childhood. The very salt that we used in cooking was rock-salt, which we were required to wash and dry and pound and sift, before it became fit for use.” Recipes were closely guarded secrets shared in whispered tones too low for Stowe’s protagonist, Horace Holyoke, to hear. No doubt the culinary comment spoken loudly enough for the eavesdropper to report was seasoned with a large measure of Yankee humor. “I still remember the solemn shake of the head with which my Aunt Lois conveyed to Miss Mehitable Rossiter the critical properties of mace, in relation to its powers of producing in corn fritters a suggestive resemblance to oysters.” The sister spice to nutmeg, mace is the aril, or seed covering, of the flavorful kernel within the fruit of the tropical evergreen tree, Myristica fragrans. The aril tends to mold soon after the fruit ripens, so it must be dried immediately. Although mace figures in numerous entries in Mary Randolph’s The Virginia Housewife, first released in 1824, including sauces for fish and fowl and desserts, more recent cookbooks rarely call for mace. Consulting Craig Claiborne’s Cooking with Herbs and Spices, originally published in 1963, I learned mace compliments both cherries and chocolate and is also used in pickles and preserves. However, I found the introduction to his
DANVILLE ALAMO GARDEN CLUB
The Danville Alamo Garden Club would like to invite you to their monthly meetings where they will share their knowledge and love of gardening. Monthly meetings are held on the second Thursday of each month and are currently presented via Zoom. The meetings feature an inspiring and educational guest speaker and program. Please visit www.DAGC.us to find detailed information about the monthly program and activities. To contact the Membership VP, click on “About DAGC” then “About Membership.” The group looks forward to meeting you!
WALNUT CREEK GARDEN CLUB
You are invited to visit meetings and to become a part of the Walnut Creek Garden Club! You’ll find friendly members with varying interests, including: • Creating and improving gardens with new plants and techniques • Supporting garden education in local schools • Supporting local environmental charities with community grants • Learning about the fun of arranging flowers • Volunteering to help local gardens, fundraisers, and plant sales The group meets the second Monday of each month at 9:30AM, September through June, at The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Dr., Walnut Creek. The group welcomes the vaccinated public to their next meeting to be held November 8th. Jill Appenzeller will provide a presentation on the benefits of the cutting garden and will include tips on growing and arranging blooms from your own garden. Jill is a member of the American Society of Landscape Architects, the Royal Horticultural Society, and the Diablo Women’s Garden Club. If you are interested in joining the Club or for more information, please visit www.walnutcreekgardenclub.org.
www.yourmonthlypaper.com | Instagram: @Alamoanddanvilletoday | #atdtnews nutmeg recipes more intriguing. In her excellent book titled Herbal Delights, Mrs. C. F. Leyel notes, “The silver graters our grandmothers wore on their chatelaines’ were used to make nutmeg tea, which supposedly has restorative powers.” Leyel was born in 1880 and founded the Society of Herbalists in 1927, now the Herb Society in England. Elaborate silver nutmeg graters became fashionable in 17th century England and are highly collectible. On January 22, 2021, Sotheby’s sold at auction a c. 1810-1820 nutmeg grater crafted by Peter Bentzon of St. Croix and Philadelphia for $40,320. In Elizabethan England, nutmeg was touted as the only reliable remedy for the plague and grated into alcoholic beverages by wealthy individuals to spice their drinks. At that time, “A small bag of nutmeg would have bought you a house complete with servants,” claims the website IndianChiefTravel. com in “Nutmeg in Grenada.” In 1511, Portuguese mariners arrived in the Banda Islands in the East Indian Ocean, native home of nutmeg trees. Run, a tiny volcanic island two miles long and a half mile wide was so covered with nutmeg groves that sailors claimed they could catch the fragrance ten miles out to sea. The ensuing quest of European nations to monopolize the spice trade, documented by Giles Milton in Nathaniel’s Nutmeg, describes ships and lives lost, cargoes pirated and native people expelled from their island homes. The 1677 Treaty of Breda is complex, but it did result in the English gaining ownership of Manhattan and all of New Netherland in exchange for Dutch retention of Run and control of major trade routes. In 1810, an English sneak attack brought Run under British rule. In 1817, claiming Napoleon might use the spiceries in a campaign against India, the British departed. Milton writes: “Before they left, the English uprooted hundreds of nutmeg seedlings along with several tons of the unique soil and transplanted them to Ceylon, Pinang, Bencoolen, and Singapore. Within a few decades, these thriving new plantations were far outstripping the production on the Bandas.” The exact date when nutmeg trees were introduced successfully to the Caribbean Island of Grenada is disputed. Some historians believe it was as early as 1782. Others as late as 1843. In any case, by the early 19th century, folks in Stowe’s New England villages and Randolph’s Southern home found nutmeg and mace readily affordable.
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where unhoused families lived under highway overpasses during bitterly cold winters, their children circled around small fires for warmth. As it had recently been growing colder at night, Yuli was struck with the idea of knitting hats for the unsheltered to help them stay warm. She began to look for organizations that served people without shelter. Someone told her about White Pony Express, and that was The star boxes (right), hand-made the beginning of a true adventure of love. Yuli learned that every winter, White Pony by Yuli Chen, will be filled with stars (left) on which is written the name Express, a nonprofit founded by Dr. Carol of an item needed by an individual Weyland Conner and headquartered in Pleasant or family experiencing challenges Hill, has a Cold Weather Clothing Program, this season. which distributes warm clothes and emergency supplies to agencies throughout Contra Costa County that serve unsheltered residents. She also learned of White Pony Express’s food rescue program, which has delivered over 15 million meals to the county’s most vulnerable residents. Excited to hear about this organization and warmly welcomed by their team, Yuli began to knit hats with the immense collection of yarn she had inherited from her daughter. Yuli’s idea was to make each knitted hat well-constructed, durable, and unique. “It takes six hours to knit one hat,” Yuli explains. “When I start on a hat, I try to complete it by the end of the day. My initial goal was to knit six hats each week.” So far, Yuli has made 150 hats for WPE; this is the equivalent of knitting one hat every day for five months straight! To some, this may sound like work, but to Yuli, it is a delight. “I experience great joy in making these hats. Even though I don’t see the recipients, I imagine how they might enjoy wearing the hats. That gives me great pleasure.” After working on her hats for over a year, she developed arthritis and had to
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925-831-8310 Meet Dr. Yvonne Hyland & Her Family Dr. Hyland has been in private practice since 2000. She received a DDS degree from Baylor College of Dentistry in Dallas, Texas. Following dental school, she pursued a hospital-based General Practice Residency at the Veteran’s Medical Center in West Los Angeles for two years. Realizing this was not the end of her formal education, she completed a successful three-year post-graduate surgical residency in periodontics. Dr. Hyland’s experience and professional skills excel in every aspect of dentistry from general cosmetic procedures to complex surgical cases. She has placed thousands of successful dental implants and is highly trained in all phases of gum disease therapy, tissue and bone grafting procedures, and wisdom teeth extraction. Dr. Hyland understands the desire to provide the very best care for the entire family. As a resident of Alamo, she strives to meet community needs by providing unparalleled services for those seeking the finest complete dental care in one location. In her spare time, Dr. Hyland enjoys spending time with her husband Terry, two sets of twin boys, and their three rescue dogs adopted from ARF.
Open Monday - Thursday and the first two Saturday’s of each month. Meet Dr. Kiranjot Dyal
Dr. Kiranjot Dyal graduated from the University of California, Davis, with a Bachelor of Science in Molecular and Cellular Biology. Thereafter, she attended Western University of Health Sciences, College of Dental Medicine to earn her degree in Dental Medicine (D.M.D.) and further extended her studies by completing a general practice residency at UCLA- Harbor Medical Center, where she earned the “Resident of the Year” accolade. Dr. Dyal’s passion for growth in her dental skills shows as she continues educating herself through various classes and up to date courses. Dr. Dyal’s goal as a dental provider is to provide compassionate care for her patients and make them feel as stress-free as possible in the dental chair. She believes that knowledge is power and understanding what treatment is needed, why it's necessary, and how it can be prevented in the future is extremely important in bettering the overall oral health of her patients and the general public. Dr. Dyal strives to build a trusting and genuine relationship with her patients and their family and friends to create a comfortable dental home for the community she treats.
PAGE 16 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • November 2021
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TECHNOLOGY MATTERS
DISCOVER YOUTUBE By Evan Corstorphine, Portable CIO, Inc.
Thanks to the now near ubiquitous nature of internet coverage, there’s been a big shift in how we receive information. Smartphones and laptops let us view information wherever and whenever we need it. I have a couple personal examples and hope they inspire you to use these helpful resources. I own a very dense and compact laptop with a myriad of problems, and components needed replacement. I was not enthusiastically embracing the project as it required complete laptop disassembly. There were dozens of tiny screws, and everything had to come apart in a very specific order. I had not done this before, so I looked it up on YouTube. If you haven’t perused it, you’ll find YouTube and its cohorts to have a video on just about anything you can imagine. In this case, I typed in the make and model of the laptop I needed to disassemble, “Dell XPS 13 disassembly.” Several videos were presented. These are all amateur videos, so the videography, sound, or even the clarity of the person speaking may not be ideal. However, what I’ve found is a plethora of enthusiastic people who are trying to help and have taken the time to share their experience and know-how to accomplish the task at hand. Having the videos can also be a tremendous aid if, like me, you don’t have the time to finish the project in one sitting. It was over two months between when I disassembled the laptop, and when I finally got around to putting it back together. Did I remember the steps? Not a chance! However, the videos I found were all still there, plus a few new ones, and watching them gave me the information I needed to finish the project. And, bonus, once reassembled, the laptop worked! This summer, my daughter and I were replacing all of the suspension parts on her car. Again, turning to YouTube we found videos from some helpful and amazing mechanics. They took us through the complete disassembly process, warned us of several “gotchas” to avoid, and overall saved us a lot of time.
Pro-tip: pre-watching the videos beforehand helped ensure we had all the right tools lined up for the job before we started, instead of making multiple trips back to the tool box. During our sunny California winters, I sometimes yearn for the snowy Pacific Northwest. If you search for “fireplace,” “snowy window,” or similar terms, you’ll find hours-long video loops someone has made of a crackling fire, a beautiful Christmas tree with twinkling lights, or the view of snowfall in a beautiful setting. It’s cool. Who are the people who create these videos? They are people like you and me. They happen to have a skill, literally any skill at all, and they enjoy sharing what they’re doing with others. Do you bake? Tie fly-fishing lures? Pour cement? Create origami? Solder circuits? Fix your pool pump? Fix your bike? Have a great way to wax your car? Need to pull a dent out of a fender? Have a special way of pulling an oily stain out of a special garment? These are just a few of the thousands of “how to” videos you can find. All you need is an account, and that’s easy because it can be the same as a Gmail account, so if you have one of those you’re already in business. There are a recorded 2.3 billion users who sign into YouTube each month, who watch over 1 billion hours of videos EVERY DAY. The site is localized in over 100 countries and is available in 80 different languages. Sixty-two percent of businesses use YouTube as a channel to post video content. Over 70% of the video traffic is consumed via mobile devices (phones, tablets). While there are other video content providers out there, YouTube is the largest, by far. Here in the US, 90% of the videos we consume are through YouTube, followed by… you guessed it…Netflix. Final statistic: over 500 hours of video content are uploaded every MINUTE, worldwide. You can also consider signing up for YouTube Premium, Music, or TV. These platforms provide you with advertising-free content, downloads, and the ability to play your content in the background. Without a premium account, the sound will shut off when you change focus to another app or your screen turns off. What are you waiting for? There is a world of interesting content waiting for you! And if the computer you want to watch videos on is acting up and you can’t fix it yourself with a YouTube video, give your friends at PCIO a call at 925-552-7953 or email us, support@pcioit.com. Advertorial
Diablo continued from front page
The year 1931, began with a sweet deal. The deed transferring Mount Diablo State Park to the California State Park Commission was dated February 14th. Contra Costa Gazette (4/27/1931) quoted Mrs. E.M. Brown, the Commission’s only female member. “St. Valentine’s Day is the Heart of the Year. It is most appropriate that the deed to the mountain which is the heart of California, and beloved of all of its people, should be a Valentine.” On April 26,1931, a motorcade of 500 cars conveying 2,000 passengers departed from Martinez for the second dedication of Mount Diablo State Park. Residents in each town they traveled through turned out to cheer. In Walnut Creek, the Livermore cowboys joined the procession “with a roar of guns and shrill yells.” The Contra Costa Gazette article continued: “One of the pleasant surprises of the day for Governor Rolph was on the highway a short distance from Danville where Herman J. Sankuhle, president of the Sunset Nurseries, and his wife, showered the car with large buckets of rose petals.” A thunderous warning of the deluge to come followed. “Governor Rolph, heading the caravan en-route, heard the rumbles and crashes of ethereal artillery. ‘Is that my salute?’ he asked President Wight of Contra Costans Associated. ‘No,’ said Wight. ‘Although it Rock City became part of Mount Diablo State Park in 1931. Mark Harrigan's will be all the salute available today.’” A 45-minute cloudburst disrupted the ceremony originally planned to take place at mom Bonnie (R) visited the wind caves with friends in 1932. Rock City. San Francisco Examiner (4/27/1931) reported: “The 2,000 had parked their cars at Rock City, halfway up the slope, when the storm descended. Governor Rolph and other officials were preparing to break down the barrier at the Toll Gate -- signifying the end of the Mt. Diablo toll road.” The Governor and accompanying dignitaries retreated to the Diablo Country Club for the dedication and dinner. Although Prohibition was in effect, alcoholic beverages flowed freely. Interviewed in 1977 by Arnold Blackmur, author of In Old Diablo, Joe Ferreira who worked at Diablo Country Club for 30 years, explained the situation. As partially transcribed in 1996 by Beverly Lane, Ferreira said: “People of prominence (and he worked for several at the club) were able to buy all the liquor they wanted. I had a place where I kept the liquor.” Rose Ferreira added, “It (liquor) came into the club in truckloads. There was always plenty of liquor.” Motorists lacking invitations to indoor festivities waited at Rock City until State Highway Patrolmen deemed the road safe. High school bands from Alhambra Union High School, Livermore and San Leandro High Schools were stranded until their buses could maneuver the treacherous descent. According to Contra Costa Gazette Rock City wind caves continue to evolve. Seen today in 2021.Photos courtesy
See Diablo continued on page 20
of Mark Harrigan.
Facebook: Alamo Today & Danville Today News | editor@yourmonthlypaper.com November 2021 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 17
LONG-TERM CARE THE “ELEPHANT IN THE ROOM”
By Robert J. Silverman, Esq.
Notwithstanding the heartbreaking increase in mortality during the last two years due to COVID-19, healthier lifestyles and meaningful advances in medicine bode well for longer life expectancies. But, a resulting challenge - the elephant in the room - is long-term care.
HOW ARE YOU GOING TO PAY FOR YOUR POTENTIAL LONG-TERM CARE NEEDS?
Many among the elderly and baby boomers, understand the importance of this question. Some do not. Others choose denial. For this article, “long-term care” means custodial (not medical) care, in which one or more third parties are required to provide care for activities of daily living, such as eating, bathing, and going to the bathroom. Such care may be at home, a convalescent hospital, nursing home, assisted living facility, or similar place. A prevalent myth is that Medicare covers long term care. Medicare coverage may apply, but it is very limited, generally only for skilled, not custodial care, and only up to 100 days. So, if long term care needs extend for longer than 100 days, you’ll need other resources to pay for it. Another myth is that Medicaid (in California, “Medi-Cal”) is always a viable option; often, it’s not. Medi-Cal is available only for those with little income and who meet other limiting asset eligibility requirements. Those who do qualify must contribute substantially all of their income toward their longterm care expenses before the government pays the balance. Additionally, the Department of Health Services sometimes imposes a lien on a decedent’s assets to recover any Medi-Cal benefits paid out during that decedent’s lifetime. Many complicated rules apply to Medi-Cal eligibility, recovery, and related planning strategies. Anyone wishing to evaluate Medi-Cal as a potential long-term care alternative should obtain appropriate legal advice from an elder law attorney specifically experienced in that niche. Another common misconception is that most people can “self-insure.” A relatively small percentage of people are in that position. In California, high quality custodial care often costs $10,000 to $15,000 per month, if not more. Furthermore, many who are able to self-insure don’t want to risk diminishing their estate meaningfully and thus, leaving little or no inheritance to their loved ones. If one develops Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, long-term care needs could extend for up to a decade or longer, with a cost of hundreds of thousands of dollars. One alternative that should be explored carefully, particularly by successful baby boomers, is to buy private, long-term care insurance. Fortunately, many different plans are available, enabling you to custom-design your coverage based on how long a period you want to cover, the waiting period before coverage starts, the maximum amount per day that can be paid out, and whether benefits are adjusted for inflation There are also “hybrid” plans that combine life insurance and long-term care benefits. Many people are convinced that they cannot afford long-term care insurance premiums, but this is not always true. Moreover, some clever ways to pay for some, or all, of your premium may be feasible without reducing your current cash flow or selling your home. These may include using, selling or exchanging existing life insurance policies, or obtaining and withdrawing funds from a reverse mortgage. If you contact me, I would be happy to refer you to several experienced longterm care insurance agents with whom you might explore your options. NOTE: long-term care insurance is not the right solution for everyone; however, that doesn’t mean you should just ignore the elephant in the room. I encourage you to think about the issue, identify your long-term care funding alternatives, and coordinate this with your estate and tax planning professionals. |Estate Planning | Trust Administration & Probate | Real Estate | Business| Please contact me to request a complimentary: i) “Estate Planning Primer”; ii) Real Estate titling brochure; iii) introductory meeting. I am an attorney with R. Silverman Law Group, 1910 Olympic Blvd., Suite 330, Walnut Creek, CA 94596; (925) 705-4474; rsilverman@ rsilvermanlaw.com. This article is intended to provide information of a general nature, and should not be relied upon as legal, tax and/ or business advice. Readers should obtain specific advice from their own, qualified professional advisors. Advertorial
TIME
By Peter T. Waldron, Managing Partner of Spectrum Wealth Partners
“The ability to do what you want, when you want, with who you want, for as long as you want, is priceless. It is the highest dividend money pays.” ~ Morgan Housel I have experienced a lot of personal loss in recent months. My cousin passed away unexpectedly at the age of 30, my wife’s uncle died at 74, and my grandfather at 96. While each death has conjured up different emotions, all have reminded me of the important role that time plays in our lives. Naturally, I do not believe that I can control time or the amount of it that I am given here on earth. Rather, in reflection, I am now more conscious of the limits that time imposes on us and of our fragility. It is not my intention to write you into a dark cloud but instead to hopefully offer some perspective on time. Accounting for time during the financial planning process is a less daunting task. We take your current age and estimate of your life expectancy based on your personal health history, family health history, and actuarial tables. While this assists us in building a general framework for planning, it does not quite touch on to the core of the issue, which is: how do you maximize your time based on your values and do so without running out of money? This is the important question to be asked. While each person’s values invariably differ, the impact of those values on planning are significant. For example, some people spend their entire life at the office, working to facilitate the next generation’s prosperity. While this goal or value is not necessarily wrong, I personally believe it is flawed. Most children only have the prior generation (i.e., their parents or guardians) to help guide them through the complexities of life. Ignoring the nuances of family dynamics for a moment, we’ll apply the subtlety of creative freedom to illustrate that life is a limited resource, and that building a legacy of family experiences should outweigh the possibility of leaving behind additional money to children who never had the chance to know their parents. (Of course, finding a nice balance of being present with your kids while also building some wealth is the preferred scenario.) The same rings true for retirement. In many cases people choose to hold out for another year because they don’t know if they have the resources to retire. Ideally, these concerns shouldn’t be hurdles that need to be overcome to achieve fulfillment at the end of a career of hard work. Conversely, we see individuals who reach financial independence at an early age without having created a margin of safety that will insulate them financially for the rest of their life or for future generations. Missing years of financial independence or exhausting the resources which created financial independence are catastrophes of time; once lost, they are impossible to get back. A few months ago I published an article titled, “It’s Not Always About the Money.” In it, I wrote about traveling cross-country with my family and how that amazing experience will now always be a part of my family’s legacy. Money is fruitless without meaningful time spent with loved ones. And while we can’t control or obsess about time, we must commit to experiences due to time’s limited capacity. Once it’s gone, you can’t get it back. Wishing you an enjoyable holiday season with your family and friends. “Time you enjoy wasting is not wasted time.” ~ John Lennon To schedule a complimentary review of your financial situation, please contact me at 925-786-7686 or email peter.waldron@lfg.com.
Peter T. Waldron, California Insurance License #0E47827, is a registered representative of Lincoln Financial Advisors, a broker/dealer, member SIPC, and offers investment advisory services through Sagemark Consulting, a division of Lincoln Financial Advisors Corp., a registered investment advisor, Spectrum Wealth Partners, 3201 Danville Blvd., Suite 190 PO Box 528, Alamo, CA 94507. Spectrum Wealth Partners is not an affiliate of Lincoln Financial Advisors. Insurance is offered through Lincoln Marketing and Insurance Agency, LLC and Lincoln Associates Insurance Agency, Inc. and other fine companies. This material is for use with the general public and is designed for informational or educational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, tax or direct investment advice. Lincoln Financial Advisors does not offer legal or tax advice. CRN-3782728-092221 Advertorial
VOLUNTEER WITH AARP TAX-AIDE
Do you like working with people? Are you good with numbers? AARP Tax-Aide is looking for volunteers to become members of a team providing free tax preparation for individuals of all ages residing in Contra Costa County. Tax-Aide volunteer positions include Tax Counselors who are trained by Tax-Aide and certified by IRS and Client Facilitators who schedule appointments and assist clients at tax sites. Orientation is held in November 2021, and classes for tax counselors start in January 2022. Service is from February through April 15, 2022. If interested, apply online at www.aarp.org/taxvolunteer, or call (925) 726-3199 for additional information.
PAGE 18 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • November 2021
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IS SCIATICA GETTING ON YOUR NERVES?
By Dr. Niele Maimone, DC
ALAMO IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION (AIA)
By Roger Smith, President AUTUMN, COLORFUL FOLIAGE, & THANKSGIVING!
Stop by and experience live music at the Alamo Farmers Market while taking a moment to pause and reflect upon the bountiful relationship agriculture provides for us through healthy food. Our vendors welcome the opportunity to discuss their work and produce with you. The Market is open Sundays from 9AM – 2PM, in Alamo Plaza, off of Danville Blvd., near Bank of America.
EMERGENCY PLANNING FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY
Lieutenant Scott Wooden and Julie Cavallero of the Contra Costa County Office of Emergency Services, and Lorene Herrera of the Community Warning System recently presented to AIA on emergency planning. The presentation is now available on our website: www.AlamoCA.org. In the event of an immediate threat to your life, health, or safety, the county’s Community Warning System (CWS) will be activated. Depending on the urgency, severity, and certainty of the threat, some combination of the following alerting devices may be activated to provide you as much notice as possible: sirens in special safety zones, Emergency Alert System (EAS) on television and radio (KCBS 740 AM), Telephone Emergency Notification System (TENS), and NOAA Weather Radio alerts. EMERGENCY ALERTS Understand how to receive emergency alerts and warnings. Make sure all household members are able to get alerts about an emergency from local officials. Check with your local emergency management agency to see what is available in your area, and learn more about alerts by visiting www.ready.gov/alerts. FAMILY COMMUNICATION PLAN Due to disaster damages and heavy phone traffic, it is often easier to communicate with someone that is out-of-state during an emergency. Therefore, choose a long-distance relative or close friend that your family will all contact if separated. Teach your household to use this number as a form of communicating and to let others know they are safe. Don’t forget to talk with your out-of-state contact about your plan and ensure they are comfortable with this role. Collect and share information. Create a paper copy of the contact information for your family that includes: phone numbers (work, cell, office), email, social media names, medical facilities, doctors, service providers, and school. Make sure everyone carries a copy in his or her backpack, purse, or wallet. You should also post a copy in a central location in your home, such as your refrigerator or family bulletin board. Family meeting place. Designate a meeting place that your family will immediately go to when disaster strikes. The place you choose should be outside your neighborhood in the event that it is not safe to return to your home or stay in surrounding areas. Each family member should be capable of reciting the address of the meeting place or locating it on their own if need be. Practice your plan. Have regular household meetings to review your emergency plans, communication plans, and meeting place after a disaster, and then practice, just like you would a fire drill. To learn more visit www.ready.gov/california, www.ready.gov/make-a-plan, www.ready.gov/kids, www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/videos/159970. CELL PHONE ALERTS CWS will alert residents and businesses within Contra Costa County that are impacted by, or are in danger of, being impacted by an emergency. The CWS message will include basic information about the incident and what specific protective actions (shelter in place, lockdown, evacuate, avoid the area, etc.) are necessary to protect life and health. Sign up for alerts at https://cwsalerts.com.
AIA SERVING OUR COMMUNITY
Now in its 66th year, AIA, a non-profit 501 (c)(3) organization, has the longest history of serving our community and helping shape it into “the place where we love to live”! Visit www.AlamoCA.org for information on AIA, articles of interest to Alamo (including Danville and Walnut Creek) residents, membership forms, and more.
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 felt. 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) and on 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 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 to be most beneficial for patients with pinched nerves, arthritis, herniated discs, and degenerative disc disease. This unique combination of non-invasive 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 is the founder of Align Healing Center in Danville. She has been active in natural health and wellness since 1999. For more information, or to set up a complimentary consult, call 925-362-8283, or visit www.alignhealingcenter.com. Advertorial
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED TO GIVE RIDES TO SENIORS AND VETERANS
Mobility Matters is a nonprofit agency that gives rides to seniors and veterans in Contra Costa County. Volunteer drivers are needed to escort seniors to medical appointments and grocery shopping. Volunteers must be 25 to 75 years old. Please call Mobility Matters at (925) 284-2215 for more details. You can learn more about Mobility Matters at www.mobilitymatterscc.com.
Facebook: Alamo Today & Danville Today News | editor@yourmonthlypaper.com November 2021 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 19
SALINE OR SILICONE?
By Dr. Barbara Persons, MD, FACS
Every woman is born with breasts that are not perfectly even. Some patients may wish they were born with bigger breasts. As a female plastic surgeon with specialized training and experience in breast surgery, I can effectively and precisely enlarge a woman’s natural breasts with breast implants. Implants, whether silicone or saline, make it possible to enhance each woman’s natural beauty while giving her the size she desires. In a typical week, I consult with a dozen or so women seeking breast augmentation. A number of questions and topics are discussed with the most popular being... saline or silicone? There are many factors involved in making the proper choice. This makes the need for an in-depth consultation even more critical. In general, most women are choosing the new generation of silicone gel implants versus saline, although an increasing number are also opting for fat grafting. Recent studies have supported the use of fat grafting to the breast. This article will focus on the differ• Comprehensive Dilated Eye Exams ences between silicone, saline, and fat transplantation to the breast and what every woman should know before making the appropriate choice. Both silicone and saline implants have an outer silicone shell. The silicone • Contact Lens Exams implants come pre-filled with a cohesive silicone gel, whereas the saline implants are filled with sterile saline after being placed. As an aside, the debate surrounding the safety of silicone implants has largely been resolved, as there has not been a single • Prescription Glasses and Sunglasses substantiated case of silicone-filled implants causing systemic disease. In many cases, we are able to make your Depending on the patient’s decision regarding implant choice, approach (belly glasses in our office with our On-Site Lab button, infra mammary fold, armpit, or nipple) and size, the implant is placed in a pocket created under the pectoralis-major muscle (sub-pectoral) or under the breast tissue (sub-glandular).The type of implant placed, the size, and the shape will be OPEN MONDAY TO SATURDAY determined by a number of factors discussed during the consultation. For now, we 215 ALAMO PLAZA SUITE D can look at the general differences and advantages of each type. ALAMO, CA 94507 MONDAY—FRIDAY: 9 - 6 Saline implants tend to be chosen by a younger demographic prior to having www.poplarspecs.com SATURDAY: 9 - 4 children. Because these implants are filled after they are placed under the breast tissue, the incision can be more distant (such as the umbilical method of implantation) and will result in almost no visible scarring which is a big appeal for this age group. Saline implants have no impact on breast feeding. They have a lifespan of approximately 7-10 years. For women in this age group the timing usually works out well. There could be an additional need for a breast lift after childbirth at which time it is convenient for the patient to replace her implants. Risks associated with saline implants include breast pain, changes in nipple sensation, infection, capsular contracture, deflation, and the need for revision. Saline implants are less optimal for women seeking larger implants such as a D cup, as the heavier weight of saline increases the risk of downward displacement and rippling. This heavier weight also makes saline feel less natural. Silicone implants have once again become the more popular choice among all age groups, even though the implants themselves cost more, as the thicker, gel-like consistency creates a more natural look and feel. These implants are highly effective at creating a natural effect for women desiring small, moderate, or ample breast size. Arriving from the manufacturer pre-filled and sized, the augmentation procedure using this type of implants requires a small incision, often in the crease below the breast and results in a very small scar, typically hidden under the breast. The risks associated with silicone implants are similar to those associated with saline, while having a significantly longer lifespan. If you have existing silicone or saline implants and are unhappy or have noticed changes to the shape of your breasts, please make an appointment for a consultation to ensure that an implant deflation or leak has not occurred. Recent advances in fat harvesting and grafting has made fat transfer the fastest growing method of breast augmentation in my practice. It is ideal for women looking to increase their breasts by one cup size, for example from B to a small C. Fat transfer is often incorporated with breast lift (mastopexy), reconstruction, and augmentation. Mild liposuction is used to remove the fat from an unwanted area such as the flanks or abdomen. The fat is then processed to obtain the highest quality and number of fat cells and adipose derived stem cells. It is then injected into the desired areas in tiny droplets using a syringe and without a need for any additional incisions; a superior aesthetic result is the norm. The final result of fat transfer becomes visible by the end of three months and improves over the first 12 months. The fat grafting take-rate averages about 60% of volume injected, but unlike implants, the fat grafts that take should last a lifetime. The one aspect of my plastic surgery training that I am most proud of, is my fellowship in Aesthetic, Breast & Laser Surgery. In addition to nine years of surgical training, including general surgery, trauma, and plastic surgery, my cosmetic fellowship provided me with exceptional tools and incomparable experience in creating the most suitable outcomes for these types of surgeries. The Cosmetic & Reconstructive Surgery Center in Lafayette has one of the largest consignments of implants in the Bay Area which enables us to find the perfect size and shape for you using the approach you want. Whether you are considering a breast augmentation for the first time, or are a patient with existing implants looking for a change, I look forward to sharing my experience and expertise in determining the most suitable augmentation option for you. Barbara L Persons, MD, FACS is a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and owns Persons Plastic Surgery, Inc., located at 911 Moraga Rd, Suite 205 in Lafayette. She can be reached at 925-283-4012 or drpersons@personsplasticsurgery.com. Advertorial
925.202.2846
FREE CONSULTATIONS TO FAMILY CAREGIVERS WITH DEMENTIA-RELATED CONCERNS
Hope Hospice has launched a complimentary video conference service.“Many of the family caregivers who attend our classes find themselves in the caregiver role unexpectedly and without resources,” says program manager Jill Smith, RN. “The face-to-face classes have helped these individuals tremendously in learning about the changes to expect in their loved one and how to adjust techniques as the disease progresses.” Zoom will be used to conduct private consultations with family members who have questions on specific challenges they are facing in caring for a loved one living with dementia. Submit a meeting request via email to jills@hopehospice.com, or call (925) 829-8770. Email is preferred. Learn more at www. HopeHospice.com.
PAGE 20 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • November 2021
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Diablo continued from page 16
(4/27/1931): “While no accidents marred their downward progress, the musicians swayed and slipped their way to safety, achieving some Medical & Surgical Dermatology For Healthy Skin measure of excitement from their trip.” Offering Treatments for: The mountain wasn’t done with deploying Skin Cancer devilish deterrents to human initiatives. On July Moles 7,1931 the Oakland Tribune declared: “Mount Precancerous Lesions G INTRODUCIN Acne, Eczema, and Rashes Diablo fire reported under control after raging Warts, Molluscum four days; 25,000 acres swept.” Most of the area EMSCULPT D Keloid and Scar Revisions ONLY FDA CLEARE Psoriasis and Vitiligo was still private property. A fortuitous shift in the Cysts and Lipoma ELECTROMAGNETIC wind turned back the conflagration before it could ING ET RG TA Hair and Nail Disorder GY LO NO TECH do much damage within the new State Park. D Underarm Sweating AN L NA MI DO AB Physician-Strength DY The Oakland Tribune article continued: BO R FO GLUTEUS MUSCLES Skin Care Products D PA “Estimates of the monetary damage done by CONTOURING, FAT Offering Cosmetic Treatments for: T! LIF TT the blaze could not be obtained today. But it REDUCTION AND BU Tattoo, Moles, Birthmarks, and Scars lpt cu MS was reported that approximately 25,000 acres, DrWilliamTing.com/E Face, Neck, Body Tightening, Lifting, mostly grazing land on nearly a score of ranches and Rejuvenation had been burned over; two homes on the Frown Lines and Owens and Parker ranches were both lost, and Jawline Reduction Rosacea, Facial Redness, Veins, and approximately 150 head of cattle were burned.” Post-injection Bruising Four ranchers made a dramatic escape. Trapped Pigmentation and Melasma near the Morgan ranch by a wall of flame, they Sun Damage and Scars A place where beauty Body Sculpting “were forced to dash 400 feet through burning Thinning Hair and/or Balding and healthy skin meet brush with wet sacks covering their heads.” Hair Removal Visit us at our Center of Snow covered Mount Diablo in December. Technology & Procedures Excellence with a combined Oakland Tribune (12/12/1931) described the Offered 12,000 square foot, state Cellfina adventure of four Pittsburg girls who tried to Cool Mini for neck of the art, newly renovated drive to the summit in their car only to get Coolsculpting® Our Women’s suite. We are dedicated Cryoshape stuck on the steepest grade 500 feet from the Wellness Center to Medical, Cosmetic, and Diolite 532 laser peak. “They climbed to the top of the mountain now offers EMSella, EMSculpt Surgical Dermatology and through snow lying seven inches deep in level FDA approved noninvasive EMSella are a place for medical electromagnetic technology Excel V Laser places and much deeper in drifts to find a genial treatment (with clothes on) Excimer Laser skin consultation, aesthetic host in Russell Horn, state forest ranger, who Fractional CO2 Laser for urinary incontinence rejuvenation, and face and resides in a cabin on the highest peak all winter.” GenesisPlus Laser and feminine intimate body contouring. Infini Microneedling RF Horn phoned for a tow truck that freed their rejuvenation! Models are used. Kybella DrWilliamTing.com/EMSella automobile as the snowstorm recommenced. Liposonix® The Great Depression brought the Civilian Visit www.DrWilliamTing.com Microneedling with PRP for an extensive list of medical, surgical, and cosmetic treatments, MiraDry Conservation Corps (CCC) to Mount Diablo. Mohs Micrographic Surgery product lines, lasers, and therapies offered. The CCC realigned park roads, built fire roads NBUVB Phototherapy and hiking trails, ranger residences, maintenance Pico Genesis Schedule your free cosmetic consultation appointment today! PicoSure Laser buildings, and campground and picnic facilities. William Ting, M.D., PRP for Hair Loss and Rejuvenation Construction of the Summit Building, using stone Board Certified Dermatologist and Mohs Surgeon Vbeam Laser 2262 Camino Ramon quarried on the mountain containing fossils of Silhouette InstaLift San Ramon, CA 94583 Spectra Laser sea creatures millions of years old, remains their Tel: (925) 328-0255 Superficial Radiotherapy TEXT us at (925) 328-0255 24/7 most impressive project. Thermage™ Email: staff@caldermcare.com Ultherapy™ The beacon known as the “Eye of Diablo” Vaser Shape drwilliamting.com was originally VLase for Feminine Rejuvenation *Welcoming new Medicare patients installed by Standard Oil of California (now Chevron) in 1928 atop a 75-foot steel tower as a navigational guide for aircraft. Giant neon letters “S” and “D” blinked “Standard Diablo” in Morse code. Charles Lindbergh threw the switch remotely first turning on the 10 million candlepower light visible for 100 miles. About 1939, the beacon was transferred to the top of the Summit Building. Shut off on December 8,1941 following the attack on Pearl Harbor, it illuminated the sky again on December 7,1964 and has since been restored in a campaign led by Save Mount Diablo (SMD). Mary Bowerman, co-founder of SMD, benefited in 1931 from both the elimination of tolls and the emergence of firefollowing plants that were not seen again on Mount Diablo for decades. She often remarked she was assigned Mount Diablo for her graduate botanical research project in 1930 principally because she was the only member of her UC Berkeley class to possess a car. Quoted by Galen Rowell in “A Celebration of the Life of Mary Bowerman (Diablo Watch, Spring, 2006), Mary Bowerman recalled: “Back in the thirties there weren’t many trails. I started going up there every week about a year before the top became a state park in 1931. There was a private toll road with a steep entrance fee, but when I went to the owner in Oakland and told him I was studying all the flowering plants and ferns and didn’t want to pay each time, he graciously agreed. I was usually working on private property even after the park was created. If I went to Sycamore Canyon, for example, I’d knock on a door, tell the occupants what I was doing, and ask their permission to proceed; they would always say yes. If there was no house or owner nearby, I would just go anyway.” Bowerman completed her PH.D. in 1936 and published The Flowering The neon letters on the1928 beacon Plants and Ferns of Mount Diablo, California in 1944. Her work was remarkable for focusing on ecological relationships at a tower flashed Standard Diablo in Morse code. Photo courtesy of SMD.
See Diablo continued on page 21
Facebook: Alamo Today & Danville Today News | editor@yourmonthlypaper.com November 2021 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 21
YOUR PERSONAL NUTRITIONIST
ENJOY SUGAR WITHOUT FEELING OUT OF CONTROL By Linda Michaelis RD, MS
3000 Danville Blvd. Alamo, CA 94507 (925) 718-5344 Bring In This Coupon To Receive Offer
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The holidays are around the corner and we are % still in the midst of a pandemic. However, this is A COMPLETE PAIR not a good time to be out of control with sweets! Save 40% off a complete pair (frame and lenses) of eyeglasses or prescription sunglasses. Many clients have been consulting with Valid prescription required. Cannot be combined with any vision care or insurance benefits/ plans, any store offer or discount. Excludes certain brands including Michael Kors, Retail Collection, Maui Jim, Costa and Oakley and Varilux lenses. May exclude Ray-Ban and Oakley. me about their lack of control surrounding Not valid on previous purchases, contact lenses, accessories, readers, or non-prescription Schedule Your Next Eye Exam At PearleVision.com/Alamo sunglasses. Discount off tag price. Savings applied to lenses. Taxes not included. Some eating sugar, be it candy, desserts, or fraprestrictions may apply. See store for details. Offer ends 12/31/21. puccinos. They take it very personally and Free Cleanings Locally Owned Wide Selection Of Designer Frames Including: berate themselves for having no willpower. And Adjustments And Operated I let them know that people tend to have either a sweet tooth craving desserts, a salty We Work With Most Insurance Plans And Welcome Your Current Prescription tooth craving munchies and crunchies, or a Eye Exams by Independent Doctor of Optometry in Pearle Vision. fat tooth craving fast foods. The problem is they set themselves up for failure by not smartly arranging in grams. Note that 1 gram of sugar equals 4 calories. food in their day. When you are hungry and your blood sugar drops, there I recommend not buying a food that has more than 10 grams of sugar. For dessert is an immediate desire for sweets. However, it is advised to not begin with a items, I suggest limiting them to 100 calories, since desserts are mostly sugar. piece of fruit, cookies, or other sweets. Fruits can be part of the meal such as Mid-afternoon, around 4PM is a notorious time when people crave sweets. adding fruit to a salad, but I always say that sweets, cake, and ice cream must Typically, you should be hungry around this time if you ate lunch between come after the meal as a dessert. 12-1PM. If your lunch keeps you full for three hours, then you have picked a To prevent all-day cravings for sweets, have a lunch that is balanced with very good balanced meal. This is now a good time to have a fruit or even a at least 4-6 oz. protein, a serving of a carb such as a 3 oz. red potato, and at homemade chocolate chip cookie. least a cup of veggies. If you know you will have a cupcake for dessert, do not DON’T GIVE UP have the potato for lunch. You will feel full from eating lunch and thus you When I first work with a client that is struggling with controlling their will be able to stop after eating one cupcake. sweets, they feel they should just not have sweets in their home. My work is Many times I see people eating skimpy lunches such as a vegetable or fruit to help them make sweets their friend and no longer their enemy. salad, a bowl of soup, or just a bag of chips. You will not be successful with I do whatever I can to help my client find dessert items that are in a portion slowing down cravings from sweets if you eat these types of lunches. size that they enjoy. I also find true and tasted recipes for desserts they can add. ADDED SUGARS If you are struggling with your nutrition, let me take you by the hand and help get I tell my clients to look for added sugars on the ingredients list lurking in their you on a healthy eating plan that you can live with forever; one that includes desserts. foods. They include white and brown sugar, confectioner’s sugar, corn syrup, Nutritional counseling can be covered by health insurance such as ABMG, dextrin, honey, sucralose, invert sugar, maple syrup, raw and beet sugar, cane sugar, AETNA, Blue Cross, Blue Shield, CCHP, Cigna, Hill, Sutter, and UHC. Feel evaporated cane juice, high-fructose corn syrup, malt, molasses, and turbinado free to call me, and I will check with your insurance and see what coverage sugar. Please realize that when fruit juice is listed on bakery goods, it is sugar. is available for you. Please email me at lifeweight1@yahoo.com, call me at I teach my clients that on the food label, the amount of sugar is expressed Advertorial 925-855-0150, or refer to my website, www.LindaRD.com.
Diablo continued from page 20
time when ecology was a new and somewhat suspect discipline. On December 7, 1971, Mary Bowerman and Art Bonwell convened a meeting launching SMD to address Mary’s dream of preserving the entire mountain including its foothills as open space. A recent SMD press release announced: “From a single park of 6,788 acres in 1971, high on the mountain’s slopes, Diablo’s protected lands have grown dramatically.” Today over 50 parks and preserves on and around Mount Diablo stretch from Walnut Creek to Brentwood and Livermore, totaling more than 120,000 acres. Sam Smoker, Executive Director of the Lindsay Wildlife Museum, hosted a meeting on January 30,1974 that formed Mount Diablo Interpretive Association (MDIA) to promote public awareness of Mount Diablo’s extensive resources through educational and interpretive information and also to support park staff. From generating publications, “Eye of Diablo” crowns Mount including Hiker’s Guide to Mount Diablo, to Diablo's Summit Building constructed establishing volunteer groups like the Peregrine by the CCC in the 1930s. Photo by Team, MDIA aids park visitors in exploring the Stephen Smith. mountain’s varied landscapes while ensuring native flora and fauna thrive. Plans are underway for a new Mitchell Canyon visitor and education center to serve as a hub for families, school groups, and individuals to discover all Mount Diablo offers. Visit savemountdiablo.org, mdia.org, and parks.ca.gov for more information on enjoying and preserving the amazing natural resources in your own backyard. Southgate kiosk welcomes visitors to Mount Diablo State Park in 1934. Photo courtesy of Mark Harrigan.
PAGE 22 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • November 2021
CAN BOTOX HELP YOUR ACHING JAW?
By Jerome Potozkin, MD
A few weeks ago, a young woman named Debbi came to see me, she asked about Botox injections for her masseter muscles. The masseter muscles are on both sides of your jaw. These muscles help clench your jaw when chewing. Debbi realized that she tends to clench her jaw when she is stressed, and she also grinds her teeth when she sleeps. In addition to jaw discomfort, she also noted bulging masseter muscles which made her face look swollen. Botox can help treat this area as well as several other areas that most people are not aware of. Debbi heard from her friends that I have extensive experience with Botox and authored the book Botox and Beyond: Your Guide to Safe, Nonsurgical, Cosmetic Procedures. She came to see me in consultation to help her with her aching jaw. Botox is a prescription drug in a class known as neuromodulators. This class also includes other FDA approved medicines such as Dysport, Xeomin, and Jeuveau. Another neuromodulator known as Daxi is expected to receive FDA approval sometime in the near future. The potential advantage of Daxi is that it is supposed to last longer. These drugs all work via the same basic mechanism, they relax muscles. For a muscle to contract, it must receive a signal from a nerve cell known as a neuron. Neuromodulators function just like a mute button on your phone blocking the message getting from the nerve cell to the muscle. If the muscle does not receive the signal to contract it remains in its relaxed state. Botox is best known as a wrinkle relaxer. It works to soften what are called “dynamic wrinkles.” These are the lines caused by the folding of the muscles under the skin. The constant folding and creasing etches lines into the skin. Botox relaxes the muscles and the lines gradually soften over time as the skin is no longer being folded. Botox doesn’t act as a filler. Injectable fillers such as Juvederm, Restylane, and RHA will fill and plump up wrinkles but that is the subject of another article. Areas that Botox is FDA approved include the glabellar lines or so called “11s,” forehead lines, as well as lateral canthal
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lines most commonly known as “crows feet” on the side of your eyes. With skilled technique, Botox can get great natural-looking results. It is currently the most popular nonsurgical cosmetic treatment. Debbi’s problem was easily solved with Botox. Treating the masseter muscles with Botox is considered an “off-label” use of the drug, as it is not specifically FDA approved for this. Using medicines “off-label” is very common practice. When we inject the masseter muscles, because they are so strong, we typically treat with a slightly higher dose than some of the fine lines. At Debbi’s visit, we treated her masseters as well as her glabellar frown lines. Debbi returned two weeks after treatment and reported a dramatic improvement in her jaw pain as well as softening of her bulging muscles, creating a slimmer appearance. She also noted softening of her frown lines. Like many patients who receive Botox treatments, Debbi also noted an overall improvement in her moods. She was delighted. Debbi’s case represents one of the many ways Botox can help our patients. Results with Botox tends to be technique dependent. Results should look natural and not obvious. It is always best to seek treatment with an expert, whether it be for cosmetic injectable treatments or treatments that are more medical in nature. Dr. Jerome Potozkin is a Board Certified Dermatologist specializing in minimally and non-invasive cosmetic procedures. The practice is accepting new patients and Advertorial can be reached at (925) 838-4900 and www.MyBeautyMd.com.
TELECARE CONNECTS WITH THE HOMEBOUND
Since 1971, member volunteers of TeleCare, a philanthropic program of Assistance League® of Diablo Valley, have been making weekday reassurance calls, to seniors and the homebound in our community. Clients can anticipate a friendly exchange of ideas with trained volunteers who provide high quality, consistent communications. If a client cannot be reached, family members will be notified. This service is free! Additional TeleCare activities include an annual holiday party, and they also receive greeting cards from the Assisteens, an auxiliary where tweens and teens learn to participate in a community service. Make that call to get you or someone you know connected! For more information, call 925-934-0901. To learn about Assistance League of Diablo Valley’s other philanthropic programs, please visit www.assistanceleague.org/diablo-valley.
Facebook: Alamo Today & Danville Today News | editor@yourmonthlypaper.com November 2021 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 23
THE EYE OPENER
WHICH INSURANCE DO I USE? By Gregory Kraskowsky, O.D., Alamo Optometry
I wanted to use this month’s article to expand on my prior article regarding insurance since patients are finding it increasingly difficult to know their benefits and how they are utilized at our office. We routinely explore and verify both medical and vision plans, and we are consistently amazed how hard it is to administer these plans. In addition, it is becoming more difficult to contact the insurance companies to obtain the necessary information. We completely understand how frustrating all of this is for our patients. I will discuss some of the differences between vision and medical insurance, and when each plan would be utilized. When making an appointment for a routine comprehensive exam at the office, we need to know which vision insurance carrier you have so that prior to the exam we know your benefit coverage. A “routine” exam is one that does not involve a medical condition such as diabetes, hypertension, cataracts, or allergies; it is specific to vision diagnoses only such as myopia and astigmatism. The vision plans we are in-network providers for are Vision Service Plan (VSP), Eyemed, and Medical Eye Services (MES). These are stand-alone plans that have exam coverage and material benefits (towards either glasses or contact lenses). Some of these vision plans are associated with your medical insurance but are administrated differently. For example, Cigna health insurance is associated with VSP, and Aetna coordinates some of their vision plans through Eyemed. Even though they are related, your medical insurance and vision coverage are usually separate entities. The main difference between a vision plan and medical insurance is that for a medical benefit, a medical diagnosis must apply. Such things as con-
junctivitis, diabetes, cataracts, allergies, glaucoma, diabetes, and dry eyes are medical diagnoses. Any medical condition that is diagnosed at the exam, or is being monitored or managed at our office, would need to be billed to your medical insurance. Even if a patient wants to renew their contact lens prescription or update their glasses, if a medical condition is being managed, your “routine” vision plan does not apply. You can obviously use your routine coverage to order contacts or glasses, but the exam must be billed to your medical plan. For comprehensive exams, all aspects of your eyes are being examined and managed; this includes, but is not limited to, vision, health of the entire eye, and systemic conditions and medications that can have ocular consequences. Patients and doctors don’t get to pick and choose what parts of the comprehensive exam to ignore, all components are assessed at every exam. If a patient presents to the office for a specific problem-focused exam, then only that issue will be addressed. Please understand that these rules were put in place by the insurance companies, not our office. It is our job to utilize the insurance plans in the proper manner per the rules that they have made. The rules are not negotiable, and they must be followed by both practitioners and patients alike. It is for these reasons that we need to collect both routine vision coverage and medical coverage when making appointments at our office. Since it is not always known ahead of time if the medical insurance or routine coverage will be primary, it makes it easier to have all information on file, so that the office can bill your insurance on your behalf. If you have any questions, feel free to contact the office and we can do what we can on our end to look up and verify your benefits prior to the exam. Dr. K. at Alamo Optometry is your hometown eye doctor for outstanding service, vision care, and designer eyewear. He can be reached at (925) 820-6622, or visit his office at 3201 Danville Blvd., Suite 165, in Alamo. For more information, visit www.alamooptometry.com, and join in on Facebook, Advertorial Instagram, and Twitter @Alamo Optometry.
Service continued from page 14
stop. This setback, however, did not dampen her yearning to serve. Yuli learned that White Pony Express had a Giving Tree Holiday Program in which boxes filled with stars are delivered to businesses that want to participate in a holiday gift-giving drive. On the back of each star is written the name of an item needed by an individual or family experiencing challenges this season. Employees and customers choose a star and fulfill the wish. A volunteer from White Pony Express collects the donations which are then beautifully wrapped and delivered with love. “I found that I could make star boxes for White Pony Express, as different muscles are involved,” Yuli remarked. Each box takes three hours to construct and is based on a design she came up with when she was just sixteen. Her grandchildren were so surprised to see her work on these boxes—all handmade!—and felt inspired by her lovely design. “Yuli is a real jewel,” says Mandy Nakaya, the Volunteer Coordinator at White Pony Express. “The love she puts into making hats and boxes is an inspiration for all of us.” Regarding her service to White Pony Express, Yuli reflects, “When I make these hats and boxes, knowing that they will help those in need, I feel like I am in touch with another soul. This brings me great happiness!” “All of us taking care of all of us” is White Pony Express’s creed. Not only is Yuli an extraordinary example of the organization’s aim to offer love in action, her dedication also represents a model of true service to our one human family.
MEALS ON WHEELS FRIENDLY HELPER PROGRAM
Meals on Wheels (MOW) Diablo Region launched the Friendly Helper Program (FHP) to assist seniors with their everyday errands, such as grocery shopping and picking up medications at a local pharmacy. This pilot program will make it easier for seniors to remain at home. “With most of our seniors sheltering-in-place, MOW Diablo Region can now provide another essential service that our seniors truly need,” said MOW Diablo Region Health and Wellness Division Manager, Cynthia Black. The guidelines below determine if a senior is eligible for the Friendly Helpers Program: CAREGIVER SERVICES • Seniors must be a participant in the existing Friendly Visitors or Friendly COMPASSIONATE CAREGIVER at your service! Experienced, reliable, Callers program. caring. Overnights, live-in or short hours. No minimums. Available weekends, • Seniors must provide at least a four-day notice before the errand is to be holidays. Flexible schedule. Highly recommended, references available. COVID completed. vaccinated. Quality care, reasonable rates. Call or text 925-360-9860. • Weekend errands may be available with a seven-day notice. HANDYMAN SERVICES • If the volunteer pays for any item on behalf of the senior, the volunteer Home Services with 30 years experience •Plumbing •Electrical •Drywall repair must be reimbursed at the time the item is delivered (cash or checks only). •New toilets •Carpentry •Caulking •Grab bars •Pressure washing •Ceramic tile • There is a $50 limit on all purchases. • MOW Diablo Region requires all seniors and volunteers to adhere to the •Water heaters •Dead bolts •Faucets •Garbage disposals •Flooring Call James, owner, at 925-934-0877 Contra Costa County Department of Health guidelines pertaining to COVID. NO JOB TOO SMALL! Place Your Classified For more information on the Friendly Helper Program, visit www.mowdiaover 28,000 homes and businesses in Alamo, Danville, bloregion.org/get-involved, or contact Eileen Stephens at estephens@mowdr.org, Reach & Diablo.$50 for up to 35 words,$5 for each additional 15 or 925-482-2622, or Tuyet Iaconis at tiaco-nis@mowdr.org or 925-891-4872. words. Email editor@yourmonthlypaper.com or call 925-405-
C L A S S I F I E D
6397 to place your ad. We reserve the right to reject any ad.
PAGE 24 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • November 2021
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What’s Your Home Worth?
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Single story rancher Situated on an almost quarter acre lot this home offers tremendous land opportunity.
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Sold at $4,900,000
Coldwell Banker is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdraw without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate. Exact dimensions can be obtained by retaining the services of an architect or engineer. This is not intended to solicit property already listed.
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