2024 APRIL ~ Alamo Today & Danville Today News

SET TO THRIVE DELIVERING BASIC ITEMS TO COMFORT KIDS IN CRISIS

By Jody Morgan

Set to Thrive (STT) is dedicated to helping Contra Costa and Alameda County children housed in the foster care system or coping with homelessness by providing thoughtfully stocked care packages that let them know they are valued. Volunteers fill each individually customized Thrive Bag with age and gender appropriate hygiene essentials and clothing to size. Serving children ages 0-19, STT supplies everything from tiny onesies for newborns to trending teen apparel. Student Bags are provided not only during Back-to-School days, but also whenever a local school district identifies a student in need. Since launching in August 2021 as a 501(c)3 non-profit, STT has delivered over 800 Thrive Bags and over 800 Student Bags.

Founder Lisa Henderson was looking for some way to serve the community after successfully raising her own four children. Shocked to learn that there are consistently 2,200 children in the foster care system in Contra Costa and Alameda Counties, she researched ways she could make their lives less painful. After discovering that most local foster care agencies lack sufficient funding to provide essential items in a timely fashion and that it often takes weeks for a foster family to receive a clothing grant, Lisa realized how she could help. Her family and friends supported her plans.

Henderson describes the heartbreaking transitions foster children face. “It is easy to understand that when children are removed from their homes, it is a moment of extreme stress and usually traumatic. When they are physically removed from their homes, there is a social worker, a police officer, and a guardian. They are given maybe 15-20 minutes to grab their belong- Jen

See STT continued on page 14

APRIL 2024

CROW CANYON SHARKS

By Alex Lee, Crow Canyon Sharks Board President

It’s 5:19 in the morning and the temperature is 39°F. There are 21 swimmers from the Crow Canyon Sharks senior performance group lined up along the pool wall listening as coach Joe Natina explains the morning’s workout. For the next two hours these swimmers will perform a series of sets aimed at improving strength, skill, and stamina.

When asked what motivates these athletes, and him, to be here this early, Coach Natina simply states, “We play to win the game.”

See Sharks continued on page 9

A BIG BUNNY FILLS THE VOID

By Desiree Gatto

Editors note: This story from Alamo resident Desiree Gatto was a winner in the recent “Petco Love Stories” contest. Only 25 stories, selected from thousands of submissions across the country, were chosen. For her winning, East Bay Rabbit Rescue was the lucky recipient of a grant from Petco. The theme of the contest was how an adopted pet changed their lives.

My son had his first migraine at 11 years old. For hours or even days at a time, his world became his bedroom, dark, with the blinds pulled shut. The fear of waiting for the next attack became another challenge for him too. A big white bunny, quiet and loyal, became his best friend.

See Bunny continued on page 20

Perkins is ready to deliver Thrive Bags to local social workers.

Lisa Henderson, STT President (L) and Alex Gawel (STT Executive VP) at Set to Thrive's first annual golf tournament.

Team competing at the Winter Junior National Championships in Chicago last December. Photo by @adrianecostaphotography.

BOULEVARD VIEW

By Alisa Corstorphine, Editor and Publisher

For as long as I can remember, I’ve always had a garden. That being said, I don’t consider myself a huge green-thumb. I throw seeds or small plants in the ground and take an attitude of “whatever happens, happens.” And, I’ve been largely successful. At my current home in growing zone 9b, I think I owe a lot to good soil and a sunny location.

Mid-March sunshine, and the promise of spring, started the itch to get out in the yard and get things ready. While the soil is still a little too cold for starting summer crops, I’ve been prepping and amending the dirt, and trying to eradicate bugs. For the first time in over a decade I’m seeing snails on plants and a plethora of slugs crawling through the garden beds. It took me several years to figure out it was pincher-bugs, AKA earwigs, that destroyed some of my young plants overnight. I now have low-key methods (beer traps for the slugs and snails, and cooking oil with a splash of soy sauce to attract the earwigs) to keep them at bay so we can enjoy some of the summer bounty.

Gardens don’t need to be fancy to produce a hefty amount of food. Most of my garden boxes were constructed from a repurposed old wallball wall that the kids (now adults) used to play on. Using the hugelkultur gardening method (learn more at www.almanac.com/what-hugelkultur-ultimate-raised-bed) you can save on purchasing truckloads of soil while setting up a great foundation for your planting bed. Potatoes, butternut squash, zucchini, tomatoes, and herbs are some of my favorite crops. If I have a bounty, I share with neighbors and others via local social media apps.

If you are planting a garden and have children, encourage them to pick out some of their crops to plant, tend, and harvest. Consider adding a compost bin and enhance the experience. You can quickly turn your compostable food scraps into dirt by ordering some red wiggler worms from Uncle Jim’s Worm Farm (www.unclejimswormfarm.com). While you can buy a bunch of accessories for composting, simplicity can be golden and just as effective.

Besides garden veggies and some fruit trees, I thoroughly enjoy my succulent collection. I’ve been inspired by succulent gardens in communities I’ve traveled to, and we are fortunate to have the world-class Ruth Bancroft Garden (www.ruthbancroftgarden.org) nearby in Walnut Creek.

A few years ago my husband and I were visiting his brother and wife at their home in Reno. They have a bit of desert-like land, and in their yard were some prolific succulents. My sister-in-law knew I enjoyed succulents and gave me a piece of one to bring home.

I stuck the little shoot in the ground and it thrived. It is about four years old and late winter I noticed many little shoots of the same plant a few feet in front of the main stems. I also noticed it was beginning to flower and the flower contained a seed pod.

I recalled my sister-in-law saying the succulent was called “donkey’s tail.” A quick iPhone picture ID confirmed it and brought up some of its other names...with “myrtle spurge” being a common one. Looking it up, the excitement for my healthy plant plummeted.

Talk about the gift that keeps on giving, I read the following words: “Myrtle spurge escapes cultivation and is aggressive, crowding out native species. It poses a danger to people because of its caustic, latex sap, which causes nausea, vomiting and diarrhea when ingested. The sap can cause blindness if it gets in people’s eyes. Skin contact with sap causes redness, swelling, and blisters.” Uh, oh.

The article continued, “For best results, begin myrtle spurge control early. Take the time to learn about the reproductive calendar of the plant. In March or April, the plant flowers. After that, it develops seed pods. Once the seed pods dry, they release the seeds in bursts, projecting them as far as 15 feet away,” (like a Roman candle!). It was the day that particular plant ended up being pulled out of the yard to make way for something a little more contained and non-toxic. While pretty, and grown in many places, it is not the plant for me.

Whether it’s flowers, succulents, or herbs and vegetables, gardening has many benefits to be enjoyed. Share your garden pictures, tips, and tricks with me at editor@yourmonthlypaper.com. Happy spring!

WHAT'S HAPPENING AT THE MUSEUM OF THE SAN RAMON VALLEY IN MARCH

Dive into the captivating world of 1970’s San Francisco with a virtual program to be held Thursday, April 18th at 11:30AM. This free program will feature San Francisco Chronicle writer Duffy Jennings. He is renowned for his groundbreaking coverage of some of the city’s most pivotal moments including the Patty Hearst Kidnapping, the assassination of Mayor Moscone, and the Zodiac and Zebra serial murders. Jennings invites you on a journey through the tumultuous 1970s. The program is free, but registration is required. To attend, visit museumsrv.org, select “What’s On,” and then “Virtual Programs.”

The recently opened “Gadgets Galore” exhibit transcends a mere collection of artifacts; it embodies a journey through innovation and advancement. Whether you’re a history buff or simply intrigued by the evolution of gadgets essential to our modern lives, this exhibit guarantees an enlightening exploration. From the inception of the light bulb to the groundbreaking evolution of coffee makers, it provides a distinct perspective on the transformative journey of these everyday essentials throughout the years.

Visit the Museum of the San Ramon Valley at 205 Railroad Ave, Danville, open Tuesday-Friday 1 PM-4 PM, Saturday 10 AM-1 PM, and Sunday noon-3PM. For more information, visit museumsrv.org or call 925-837-3750.

Coming with a host of common names, this myrtle spruge is getting ripped out of my yard.

Carolyn.Gwynn@TheAgencyRE.com

2024 HIKE FOR HOPE REGISTRATION IS OPEN

Hope Hospice (HH) has opened registration for its 2024 Hike for Hope, which will take place on Saturday, May 4 th , at Del Valle Regional Park in Livermore. Registration remains open through the event day. Sign up by April 5 th to secure access to an Early Bird shirt pickup event.

HH is also seeking event sponsors. Various publicity benefits are provided at four sponsorship levels. Anyone interested in sponsoring should connect with Hope Hospice prior to April 5 so that their company logo/family name can be included on the event T-shirt. Details are available at TheHikeForHope.com.

The Hike for Hope is an annual fundraiser for HH. Money raised through registrations and peer-to-peer supporting donations benefits patient care and helps keep grief support, dementia education, and family caregiver resources available to the public at no charge. The community’s participation helps HH care for more than 2,000 East Bay neighbors each year.

Organizers have mapped out an out-and-back 4.4-mile route along the East Shore Trail with an optional moderate loop on the Hetch Hetchy and Ridgeline trails that climbs to a scenic overlook. Or, choose a 1.7-mile route along the East Shore for an easy, flat stroll. Combine all three legs for a 6-mile excursion. Trail monitors will be positioned along all routes to help guide the way.

The event starts at 8:30 AM . The group starts out together, then hikes at their own pace. A free barbecue lunch sponsored by MCE Corp. awaits participants back at base camp. Raffle prizes, silent auction winners, and top fundraiser awards are announced around noon, then it’s good-bye until next year.

See page 13 for additional information. Register at TheHikeForHope.com , or call 925-829-8770 on weekdays from 9 AM to 4 PM . Carolyn

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.

You are invited to join the next meeting on Tuesday, April 16th, 10AM - noon via Zoom, with a presentation by Robert M. Wilbanks IV titled “Heading West, Starting Fresh: Our Ancestors & American Expansion.” It will be a historical overview of United States migration from the earliest Colonial period to the later 1800s.

A professional genealogist for over 40 years, Robert founded Ancestral Pride: Professional Genealogy Services in 2009 and continues speaking, researching, writing, and has developed several websites.

To join in the Zoom talk, learn more, or become a member of SRVGS, visit srvgensoc. org. For questions, email president@srvgensoc.org

RSVP TO BOBBY’S BRIGADE’S MAY 4TH EVENT

Bobby’s Brigade along with the California Highway Patrol (CHP) will be hosting a packaging party for children in protective custody from auto accidents, domestic abuse, child abuse, or neglect.

The event will be held at the Creekside Community Church located at 1350 Danville Blvd. in Alamo, on May 4th beginning at 10 AM .

The packaging party runs until 1,800 care packages, which include teddy bears, coloring books, colored pencils, and hand written notes from the volunteers, are assembled. The event is usually over by 2PM. All ages are welcome to help and service hours can be signed off.

Chipper, the CHP mascot, will be in attendance, and the CHP often brings free bicycle helmets for all that attend along with reflectors for bicycles and other safety devices. Beverages and donuts will be served.

Raffle tickets with multiple prizes from local businesses will be sold to raise money to purchase next year’s teddy bears.

Volunteers for set up arrive at 8AM.

To join in the fun and make a difference, RSVP to bobbysbrigade@yahoo.com

Call Mark Redman at 925-336-9425 with any questions or visit bobbysbrigade.com.

DOWNTOWN DANVILLE CONSTRUCTION BEGINS

The Town of Danville has begun construction activities for the Downtown Master Plan Catalyst Project. The project represents a $4.9 million investment, and furthers the Town’s goals to continually invigorate the Downtown area. The project includes pedestrian safety improvements and community gathering spaces.

The initial Catalyst Project is part of a nine-component strategy to enhance the historic downtown. This first component includes traffic calming and beautification improvements at five intersections along Hartz Avenue, from School Street to Linda Mesa Avenue, as well as improvements near the Village Theatre. There will also be improvements to Prospect Park Plaza, an outdoor space owned by the Town near Starbucks on Hartz Avenue. The first project will be at the intersection of Church Street and Hartz Avenue, and construction is expected to be complete in late fall.

The Town has taken steps to minimize impacts on Downtown businesses and visitors:

• All businesses will remain open and accessible.

• Hartz Avenue will remain open.

• When paving happens, it will be overnight.

• Construction will be in phases, intersection-by-intersection.

• Most construction activities will happen Monday-Friday, 7 AM to 5 PM

• Downtown community events will go on as planned.

The Catalyst Project represents the culmination of a years-long planning effort to revitalize the downtown experience and adapt to evolving community needs. The initial project responds to the highest priorities highlighted in the Danville 2022 Downtown Master Plan Update: more community gathering space, stronger connections to and through downtown, enhancing pedestrian safety, and opportunities to incorporate arts and culture. The 2022 update was developed after significant public input that included a survey, public meetings, and stakeholder interviews.

Community members can follow the project, provide feedback, and review progress on the Downtown Master Plan project page at www.danvilletowntalks.org. For more information, contact Jenn Starnes, Public Information Officer, at 925-314-3336 or jstarnes@danville.ca.gov

THE GATTI REPORT: YOUR GREATER DANVILLE AREA REAL ESTATE UPDATE

By Joe Gatti

Spring has arrived! Spring is one of my favorite times of the year for the Iron Horse Trail. If you see me out on a run or walking the dogs, please say hi, and if you’re considering selling or buying a home in the year ahead, please reach out to the Gatti te am. Our Team with Compass combines 60+ years of Greater Danville Area experience with the #1 Real Estate Brokerage in the United States. We strive for personalized, local, and proven real estate expertise tailored just for you.

In March, we saw continued evidence of moderating, yet stubborn, inflation. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) for February came out on March 12 th and inflation for the second consecutive month was slightly higher than anticipated. Markets were forecasting 3.1% but the official CPI number came in at 3.2%. With this economic data in hand, the Federal Reserve held interest rates steady at their March 20 th meeting; a level they have kept unchanged for eight consecutive months. The Fed did signal their anticipation that three separate rate cuts would be coming before the end of this year.

Keeping the potential benefits of future interest rate cuts, one of the biggest challenges for potential sellers in the Greater Danville Area has been the prospect of identifying a future property once they sell. Common fears include: obtaining a future home that will meet their re quirements for interior/exterior size, the qualities of features and amenities, and the location for schools and lifestyle matching their needs. Finding the rig ht home, immediately after selling, meeting all these preferences can seem daunting.

Fortunately, there are options for buying before selling. Here are three mortgage program scenarios that might be worth looking into. First, if you have a lot of equity in your current home but minimal cash on hand, there is a program to utilize this stored up equity in order to purchase. Second, if you have a substantial amount of equity combined with a sufficient yearly income and savings for a potential down payment, there is a program to purchase and sell shortly after. Third, if you plan to keep your current home and turn it into a future rental, there is a program for enabling this transition as you purchase your future primary residence. If you want to know where you are going before selling, there are a combination of options worth cons idering.

If you’re thinking of selling and have any questions on real estate, please contact us for a FREE no obligation estimate of the value of your home. We are here to help!

I hope you found this article helpful. I’ve been serving our real estate community for 11 years. Ron Gatti, my business partner and father, has been a full-time real estate professional for over 40 years, all in the greater Danville area. We both are Associate Brokers with Compass out of the 760 Camino Ramon, Suite 200 office in 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!

AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY WOMEN DAW BRANCH HAPPENINGS

The American Association of University Women (AAUW) Danville-Alamo-Walnut Creek (DAW) branch is pleased to announce upcoming events.

AAUW DAW GARDEN TOUR 2024

Register for the 2024 Garden Tour taking place on Friday, May 10 th and Saturday, May 11 th from 10 AM -4 PM Stroll through multiple gardens in our local communities. Tickets are $40 per person if purchased before May 1st, and $45 thereafter.

Proceeds provide college scholarships for local women, STEM camperships for middle school girls, and educational programs in our community.

For more information, and to purchase tickets, visit https:// daw-ca.aauw.net/2024-garden-tour or scan the QR code.

2024 EDUCATIONAL SCHOLARSHIPS – APPLY NOW!

The AAUW DAW Branch is pleased to offer three categories of local scholarships to students who are enrolled in an accredited college, university, or technical school. Each scholarship will be an award of $2,000 or more. Applications are reviewed with consideration given to financial need, special circumstances, academic record, work and community activities, along with educational and career goals.

AAUW DAW Community Local Scholarships – Open to women who will be juniors, seniors, or graduate students for the 2024-2025 school year. Applicants must have attended high school in Danville, Alamo, or Walnut Creek, or currently reside in these communities.

AAUW DAW Renaissance Scholarships – Open to women enrolled at Cal State East Bay who participate in the Renaissance Scholars program, who will be sophomores, juniors, or seniors in the 2024-2025 school year or will graduate from CSUEB and enter graduate school in the 2024-2025 school year.

AAUW DAW Single Parent Scholarship – Open to any student who is a single parent enrolled at Diablo Valley College and who has completed at least 12 units.

For more information or application instructions, visit https://daw-ca. aauw.net/local-scholarships/. Applications are due April 30, 2024.

DEI (DIVERSITY EQUITY INCLUSION): GENDER 101

On Thursday, April 18th from 6-8PM, join the DAW branch of AAUW at the Danville Congregational Church located at 989 San Ramon Valley Blvd, Danville, for a timely presentation from two key members of the local PFLAG organization. In addition to familiarizing us with some common terms relating to LGBTQ+ people and issues, they will provide us with guidance in understanding and supporting transgender and gender non-conforming individuals.

One of the speakers will be Taylor denBroeder (he/they), the current President of the Danville/San Ramon PFLAG chapter and a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community who draws on his own experiences and past to advocate for and educate others. The other is Elisa Tinker (she/her/hers), a board member of the Danville/San Ramon PFLAG chapter and the mother of three young adult children including a son, a daughter, and a non-binary child.

PFLAG is the nation’s largest organization dedicated to supporting, educating, and advocating for LGBTQ+ people and those who love them. It was founded in 1973 as the Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays.

To learn more and to RSVP, visit daw-ca.aauw.net/2024apr/. The event is free for AAUW members, otherwise there is a $10 entry fee.

DANVILLE’S CHROMATICA PRESENTS TRANSFIGURATIONS

Founded in Danville in 2011, Chromatica is now a 35-singer chorus with a record of two seasonal performances every year. Its two April concerts titled “The Transforming Power of Music” present the world premiere of Transfigurations, a 30-minute choral and instrumental suite written specially for Chromatica by Christopher Tin with lyrics by Charles Anthony Silvestri, and much more. This commission was funded by a very generous contribution from former chorus members Dan Peterson and his wife Maria. The April 27th concert will be at 7PM at Saint Matthew Lutheran Church, 399 Wiget Lane in Walnut Creek. The April 28th concert will be at 4PM at Peace Lutheran Church, 3201 Camino Tassajara in Danville.

These concerts also include some spectacular contemporary compositions by Elaine Hagenberg, Kim Arnesen, John Rutter, Marques Garrett, and Craig Carnahan. They all focus on the transformational power of music and singing. Chromatica will also highlight two pieces by the Transfigurations composer and lyricist, Sogno di Volare conducted by Christopher Tin and Voces Lucis with lyrics by Charles Anthony Silvestri.

“It has been Chromatica’s dream since its foundation 12 years ago to commission and perform major choral works well outside the normal repertoire for community choruses” said David Huff, founding artistic director. “It was far beyond our expectations to be able to work with such remarkable talents as Christopher Tin and Tony Silvestri.

Tickets are $30 for adults, $10 for students, and children 10 and under are admitted free. For concert tickets and to find out more about Chromatica, visit www.chromaticachorale.org. Tickets for all concerts are also available at the door. For a more personal look you can find Chromatica on Facebook.

INTERFAITH EARTHFEST

Interfaith San Ramon Valley (I-SRV) is collaborating with the Town of Danville for InterFaith EarthFest. The celebration will showcase exhibits and speakers, booths, activities, music, art, a ceremony to spotlight local eco-successes as well as stories of hope inspiring ongoing community action for care and stewardship of our planet.

The event will take place on Sunday, April 21st from 12:30-4:30PM at Peace Lutheran Church located at 3201 Camino Tassajara in Danville. Multiple faith communities and congregations throughout the San Ramon Valley are co-sponsors and creators of this unique event, which draws on wisdom from multiple faith traditions and cultures to guide us in living in harmony with the Earth and each other. Everyone is invited to participate.

Sixteen community partner organizations already have confirmed their participation, along with multiple teachers, musicians, and performers. The afternoon will be filled with activities for all ages. Come find community, connections, new ideas, and spiritual nourishment in the work of taking care of our communal home.

I-SRV is a community of diverse spiritual traditions and congregations from across the San Ramon Valley who are committed to learning, sharing, listening, and acting together. Learn more at InterfaithSRV.org, or email I.SRV.events@gmail.com

MONTE VISTA HIGH SCHOOL

By

Dr.

Kevin Ahern, Principal

March has been very busy at Monte Vista (MV) and our community is happy to kick off April with a well-deserved spring break. A lot has been happening over the past few weeks and there is a ton more to come as we enter the final stretch of the school year.

The week before Spring Break, MV welcomed an accreditation team from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) to our campus. The visit capped a threeyear process where MV staff, students, and community analyzed data and evaluated programs in order to develop a report that identifies all of the great things about our school, as well as areas where we need to grow. The MV community really showed up to demonstrate why our school is recognized as one of the top schools in our region and in the state. Our report and the accompanying visit report have now been submitted to WASC and we are awaiting our accreditation results. A WASC visit requires an entire community, so I would like to thank MV’s PTSA, Academic Boosters, Athletic Boosters, Site Council, community groups, students, staff, and parents who made the visit such a success.

Coming up on April 17th, MV’s Orchestra led by Sara Dasovich will participate in the District String Festival. That same evening our spring play The Nitwits, will run from April 18th - 20th. Also on the 20th, MV’s Concert Band will attended the Large Ensemble Festival at Inderkum High School in Sacramento, and MV’s Choir will host the Golden State Choir Festival on the 23rd at MV. Finally, a heads up -- the MV Dance program will host its spring show from May 8-10. Congratulations to all of MV’s VAPA program for representing our community in such wonderful ways.

MV’s Speech and Debate Team will also be in action this month. On April 12th - 14th, our team will compete at the CA State Championships in Clovis, followed the next weekend by a visit to the National Tournament of Champions in Lexington, Kentucky. Congrats to these awesome students for their ongoing success.

MV Robotics has also been busy the past few months as they continue to build and refine their work for a series of spring tournaments. Congrats to this amazing team of students and mentors for their hard work and commitment.

Although the March rains postponed many of our early contests, MV’s athletic teams made the most out of the nice weather before Spring Break and were able to make up for many of the missed games. Despite the challenging weather, it’s been a great start to the season for all of our teams.

It has been an awesome run for the Mustangs so far in 2024. We look forward to the home stretch and the final sprint towards graduation.

SAN RAMON VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL

By Elsa Hartley, San Ramon Valley High School, Senior

The sun is out, the weather is getting warmer, and we only have about two months left of school! SRV students are enjoying the sunshine through a variety of spring sports and activities, as well as gearing up for AP exams the first week of May.

To recap the month of March, we congratulate our men’s basketball team for making it to the state championships! Thank you to those who came to support the team throughout the season, but a special thank you to anyone who drove to Sacramento to watch the final game! Playing in the Sacramento Kings stadium was a unique opportunity and we are so proud of the team. Our juniors had a fantastic time at Prom held at Lake Chalet in Oakland. The theme being a play on Top Gun: “Soarin’ Over The Lake.” Our spring sports are well underway, with lacrosse, volleyball, baseball, and softball all having a variety of games.

As we return from spring break, we have an exciting month in front of us. Three students from our Speech and Debate class qualified for State. They will be traveling to the Central Valley to compete in various speech events. We are also looking forward to National Letter of Intent Day (NLI) on April 19th, where we will be celebrating our 26+ NCAA athletes as they move on to the next chapter of their athletic careers. As our seniors figure out their plans for the next few years, we are busy preparing for Decision Day on May 1st. Students have the opportunity to sign a pennant for the school they have committed to for college or their plans after high school.

To celebrate Earth Day on April 18th, many students have signed up to visit our sister school, Peres Elementary, to assist with their school garden and other Earth Day activities with the students. That same week, we are looking forward to watching our Theater 4 class perform the play She Kills Monsters! The last week of April is Staff Appreciation Week, where we will celebrating our amazing SRV staff!

And of course, the event all of our seniors have been looking forward to, ‘Senior Games’ begins the week of April 22nd. Seniors who opt-in to play are sorted into color teams, and the teams compete in a variety of events throughout the week including Tug-of-War, Knockdown, Obstacle Course, Survivor, Riddle Test, and Kajabe Can Can. Teams are awarded points based on the place they come in for each event. Additionally, teams can turn in coins to the ongoing coin drive for additional points. All money collected from the coin drive will be donated to SRV’s Comrades program!

That’s it from SRV this month– we hope everyone is enjoying the sun and the springtime!

Sharks continued from front page

The Crow Canyon Sharks year round swim team was formed in 2005, alongside their already established recreational counterpart, the Sea Lions. In 2020, the two teams merged and transitioned to being the Sharks year round program exclusively. Since then, the team has achieved great success.

Last summer, the Sharks women’s team earned runner up honors, out of 368 represented teams from across the nation, at the prestigious Speedo Summer Junior National Championships in Irvine. The combined team (men and women) earned 4th overall at the meet. The Sharks women then followed it up by winning the Speedo Winter Junior National Championship in Chicago last December, out of 230 represented teams. The combined team earned 2nd overall in the western United States.

When asked about the success of the team, Joe says “When we pivoted to being a values driven team over a results driven team, the success followed.”

This June, the Sharks have three swimmers heading to the US Olympic Trials meet at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. There they will compete for spots on the United States Olympic team that will represent our nation at the 33rd Summer Olympic Games in Paris this July.

Eighteen year old Bailey Hartman of Danville (Carondelet ‘24), 16 year old Raya Mellott of Danville (SRV ‘25), and 18 year old Devyn Caples of Pleasanton (Amador Valley ‘24) will be representing the Sharks in the National spotlight. These three have met the qualifying times in their respective events and will compete with some of the world’s fastest swimmers.

Bailey will be swimming and studying at the University of Virginia, the reigning three time women’s swimming NCAA champions, starting in the fall. Raya will join her one year later with the incoming 2025 class. Devyn will be swimming and studying at Princeton in the fall.

The Sharks are a team of 150 swimmers ranging from 4-18 years of age and are based out of Bay Club Crow Canyon. They have practice groups for swimmers of all skill levels. The core values for the Sharks are teamwork, toughness, and trust. These values have served the team well.

At 7:15AM, their practice concludes. The swimmers are on their way to the locker room to get ready for their school day ahead. They’ll be back this afternoon for another two hour practice session. And, then back at it tomorrow morning, dark and early, with teamwork, toughness, and trust.

Follow the group on Instagram @ ccccsharks or visit www.gomotionapp. com/team/pcccs/page/home.

UPCOMING BOOK SALE

The Friends of the Danville Library (FODL) will host a pop-up used book sale to raise money for our local library on Saturday, April 27th from 10am to 2pm. The sale will be held in the Mt. Diablo Room of the Danville Library located at 400 Front Street, Danville

• Book prices start at $2; less for children’s chapter books

• Cash, local checks, and credit cards accepted

• Book donations will be accepted during the sale. Limit of four bags

For more information, visit the bookstore Monday-Saturday 10am-5pm to speak with a volunteer.

Olympic Trial Qualifer Devyn Caples. Photo by @adrianecostaphotography.

Olympic Trial Qualifers Raya Mellott (left) and Bailey Hartman (right). Photo by @ adrianecostaphotography.

THE HISTORY AND FUTURE OF LIVORNA PARK

By County Supervisor Candace Andersen

Our parks make our community a very special place to live. Livorna Park in Alamo was created nearly 30 years ago and plans to renovate the park are now underway. It is a beloved community space that provides opportunities for recreation, relaxation, and socialization amidst beautiful natural surroundings.

Whether you’re enjoying a picnic with family, playing sports with friends, or simply taking a leisurely stroll, Livorna Park offers something for everyone to enjoy.

In advance of the large-scale renovation, a community wide survey was conducted in early 2023 and two town halls were held – one in person at the Alamo Women’s Club and one via Zoom. The County is now in the design phase of the project and will be holding additional open houses to solicit feedback from Alamo residents.

The Public Works Special Districts division is leading this project and will be attending the April 9th Alamo Municipal Advisory Council (MAC) meeting to present draft designs to the MAC and the community. Next, a town hall will be held at 5PM on May 7th prior to the following MAC meeting. All meetings will be held at the Alamo Women’s Club at 1401 Danville Blvd. A second town hall will be held via Zoom on Tuesday, May 15th. Please visit our Alamo County webpage for more information and to view the proposed designs www.contracosta.ca.gov/3595/Alamo

The history of Livorna Park is quite interesting. In 1974, the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors established the County Service Area (CSA) R7 fund. At the time, Danville and San Ramon were also unincorporated communities. In June of that same year, voters in Alamo, Danville, and part of San Ramon supported a tax to set aside funds to develop parks and recreation

LOCAL ROTARY CLUBS

The Rotary Club of Alamo meets the 2nd, 4th, and 5th Wednesdays at 12:15PM at Round Hill Country Club, visit their Facebook page “Rotary Club of Alamo.” More information is also available at alamorotary.org, alamorotary@ hotmail.com, or by calling 925-718-6601. The Rotary Club of San Ramon Valley meets at the San Ramon Community Center on the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Wednesdays from 7PM-8:30PM. For more information, call Valerie Munoz at 925-683-6310 or visit www.sanramonvalleyrotary.com. The Rotary Club of Dougherty Valley/ San Ramon meets Wednesdays from 5:15PM-6:40PM at Amador Rancho Community Center. For more information, call 925-998-2924. The Danville San Ramon Rotary Club meets Tuesdays at the LAB meeting room at Roundhouse located 2600 Camino Ramon, San Ramon. Meetings are held at 7AM on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays, noon on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, and no meetings in months with a 5th Tuesday. For more information call 925-997-6664.

KIWANIS CLUB OF SAN RAMON VALLEY

The Kiwanis Club of San Ramon Valley meets every Thursday at noon at Black Bear Diner located at 807 Camino Ramon in Danville. New and prospective members are welcome!

The Club organizes the Kiwanis 4th of July Parade in Danville and participates in many community service projects. The Club has an interesting and informative weekly program speaker and specializes in fun and entertaining camaraderie. There is no charge for a guest lunch. For more information, email info@srvkiwanis.org, or visit www.srvkiwanis.org

EXCHANGE CLUB

The Exchange Club of San Ramon Valley meets for lunch the second Wednesday of every month at The Grille at Blackhawk, located at 3540 Blackhawk Plaza Circle in Danville. Sign-in and social time begin at 11:30AM. The meeting starts promptly at noon and ends promptly at 1PM. The one-hour program features guest speakers and business networking. Guests are welcome with luncheon reservations. The cost is $30. For reservations and information, please contact Karen Stepper at 925-998-8865 or coachstepper@yahoo.com.

services in the community. The CSA R7 could purchase, plan, and develop local parks. The CSA rapidly acquired land and developed three parks: Central Park in San Ramon, Osage Station Park in Danville, and Oak Hill Park on the border of Alamo and Danville.

Danville incorporated on July 1, 1982, and with that, the Town was able to bring Osage Station Park and Oak Hill Park into its boundaries. San Ramon incorporated in 1983 and took over Central Park. This left only Alamo with no park.

In 1992, a development of 98 single family homes was proposed in a previously undeveloped area of Alamo, adjacent to a small, quiet neighborhood. To make the project more appealing to neighboring homeowners, the developer proposed replacing three home sites with a 4.4-acre park, which separated the existing neighborhood and the development. In 1994, the Alamo Estates Subdivision was approved with 95 houses and a 4.4-acre park. The park would come to be known as Livorna Park.

Livorna Park opened in October 1997. Over the years, amenities were added without increasing its size. These additions included a playground, an active volleyball court, a gazebo, and in 2016, a bocce court facility.

Now, as the facilities begin to age, it is time to upgrade the park. The County has been working with consultant STANTEC as well as the Alamo MAC to prepare a list of priorities for the upgraded park. The MAC’s priorities include: a water feature, more shade, additional parking, soft play surface and a new play structure. They would also like to see additional seating, benches and tables, full court basketball, updated restrooms, amphitheater seating, new light standards and rehabilitated landscape. Reserves built up in the CSA R7 fund are sufficient to fund the renovations. The project aims to provide improvements to the park to accommodate a wide range of ages, abilities, and interests for years to come.

The Alamo MAC and Public Works would love to hear from the community. Please consider attending one of the upcoming meetings to provide feedback on the proposed designs. Feel free to contact my office with questions.

Please contact us if we can provide you with additional information on this topic or on other County issues. My office is here to serve the residents of Contra Costa County District 2, which includes Alamo, Blackhawk, Canyon, Danville, Diablo, Lafayette, Moraga, Orinda, Rossmoor, San Ramon, Tassajara Valley, and parts of unincorporated Walnut Creek. I can be reached at SupervisorAndersen@bos.cccounty.us or 925-655-2300.

ACTION POOL REPAIR

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! 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

SONS IN RETIREMENT

SAN RAMON VALLEY BRANCH #128

Are you looking for ways to stay active, build new relationships, and infuse your retirement with excitement? Explore Sons in Retirement 128 (SIR), a dynamic social community tailored for men aged 50 and above who have retired or are nearing retirement.

At SIR 128 San Ramon Valley, retirement is seen as an opportunity for exploration and camaraderie. Our wide range of activities caters to various interests, including cooking, cycling, hiking, cribbage, leisurely strolls, book clubs, investment groups, and 9 and 18-hole golf to name some.

Furthermore, SIR 128 arranges monthly outings to diverse destinations, offering delightful chances to foster friendships and relish shared experiences. Our upcoming visit to Guide Dogs for the Blind promises to be a fulfilling and enjoyable occasion. Join us in embracing the pleasures of retirement together!

SIR 128 offers a program tailored to suit your preferences. Membership includes a monthly luncheon featuring interesting guest speakers. These luncheons occur on the third Wednesday of each month at 11:30AM at the Bridges, 9000 S. Gale Ridge, San Ramon.

If you’re interested in attending one of our upcoming luncheon meetings as a guest, please email membership@sir128.com. To discover more about the SIR 128 branch, visit www.SIR128.com

CRISIS CENTER HELP

Sometimes we all need a little help. The Contra Costa Crisis Center volunteers are available to listen, help, and provide resources, support, counseling, and hope 24/7 to assist people in emotional or psychological distress. Their mission is to keep people alive and safe to help them through crises, and to provide or connect them with culturally relevant services in the community.

The services are free and confidential. They can be reached by dialing 211 or calling 811-833-2900. They are also available by texting “HOPE” to 20121.

For more information visit crisis-center.org.

HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS INVITED TO FREE SUMMER THEATER RETREAT

The Eugene O’Neill Foundation invites aspiring young actors and playwrights who are rising sophomore, juniors and seniors, to join a free 10-day retreat in the beautiful setting of Tao House, located in the hills of Danville. This National Historic Site was O’Neill’s home for seven years, while the Nobel and Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright penned some of the greatest works of American theater.

During the retreat, professional actors, writers, and directors offer students a unique, hands-on, collaborative experience, including games, scene work, and techniques in movement and voice character development for actors. Aspiring playwrights focus on play structure and character development while participating in writing exercises that engage the imagination and nurture the individual writing process. Students interested in directing move between the acting and writing workshops to immerse themselves in the different dimensions of a production, from casting the show to its live performance.

From June 19-30 (with a break June 24 and 25), students will workshop ideas, learn new techniques and grow as creative artists as they produce original and established works of theater.

Transportation, lunch and snacks are provided. Funding comes from the public’s generous donations, in partnership with the Eugene O’Neill Foundation, Tao House, and the National Park Service.

Students can apply now through June 1 at https://eugeneoneill.org/studio-retreat-application. For questions, email taohouse.eonf@gmail.com

QUICK TRIPS

By Linda Summers Pirkle

PLAYFUL PATHWAYS AT SONOMA’S CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

With her two young boys in tow, Collette Michaud, a young mom, drove the 80 plus miles from her home in Petaluma, to the Discovery Museum in San Jose. The journey, although long, was worth the effort since her little guys loved the fun and creative activities. Collette was inspired by the museum and ideas began to percolate. She imagined opening a children’s museum closer to her home. That was 25 years ago and today, her dream has become a reality. Collette is CEO and founder of Children’s Museum of Sonoma County (CMSC) located in Santa Rosa.

“I had been dreaming about starting a children’s museum for a couple years after becoming a mom,” Collette shared via email. “While visiting another children’s museum, with another young mom and her family, I told her I wanted to start a children’s museum for Sonoma County. She just looked at me with a blank stare and said… ‘Good luck with that!’ But, it didn’t deter me. Once I said it out loud, there was no turning back!”

The museum started out as a traveling exhibit. “It took a team effort with a lot of luck along the way,” says Michaud. “The early days when it was just my minivan were challenging. Weekends were spent loading up the van at 6 AM and then traveling to various outdoor venues to attend community events. Then, at the end of the event, we would pile everything back in the van after six or eight hours and I would drive it back to a friend’s house who was allowing us to use her garage as a storage space.”

“Needless to say,” she continues, “the early years involved a lot of manual labor, loading and unloading vans, trucks, and trailers, mostly on weekends. I’m still amazed at the patience and support our families afforded us in getting the museum started.’’

Today CMSC is located in a beautiful facility next to the Charles Schultz Museum

BE AWARE

The Danville police department would like to offer the following tips to prevent theft at your home or business:

• Secure all doors and windows, including garage and sliding doors.

• Ensure adequate lighting both inside and outside the house, using timers, motion sensors, or dusk-to-dawn illumination.

• Install and use alarm systems and cameras for added security.

• Keep doors and windows clear of debris to eliminate potential hiding spots for burglars.

• Avoid hiding keys in obvious places like under doormats or flowerbeds.

• Inform trusted neighbors when traveling to monitor mail, newspapers, and deliveries as well as utilize vacation house checks and mail holds when traveling.

VETERAN SERVICE ORGANIZATION MEETINGS

in Santa Rosa and welcomes thousands of visitors every year. It is the perfect spot for toddlers and young children to explore. The museum utilizes the science behind childhood brain development with programs and exhibitions where students learn while they play.

My grand-girls, ages 2 and 5, had a blast on a recent visit to the museum. The outside area, known as Mary’s Garden, is a 36,000 sq.ft. certified wildlife habitat. It has a sculpture-garden vibe with curving paths and a beautiful Butterfly Life Cycle exhibit featuring a giant butterfly egg, caterpillar, and even a 4-foot high chrysalis made of a steel netted material that kids can climb inside. Three large kinetic butterfly sculptures powered by hands-on machines are not only teaching moments, but also lovely works of art.

The Little Russian River and Sonoma Coastline exhibit is a fun spot with a cascading series of small rocky waterfalls culminating in a shallow pond. Kids can “catch and release” imitation salmon fish and experiment with various objects that may or may not float down the river.

The museum, with its many exhibits, both indoor and outdoor, and with curious children playing and exploring, is a surprisingly peaceful place. Perhaps it’s the lighting inside, the gorgeous garden or a combination of the two, but it feels tranquil. I spoke to a woman from Seattle who said it best, “Whenever I visit my family I make it a point to bring my three-year-old granddaughter here. It is so clean and unlike other kids museums I’ve been to, I appreciate that Children’s Museum of Sonoma County is not chaotic.”

Bubble Birthday Bash will be held on June 22-23 celebrating the 10th anniversary of the opening of CMSC in its permanent location in Santa Rosa. Check the website www.cmosc.org for details.

CMSC is located at 1835 W. Steele Lane, Santa Rosa. It is closed Tuesdays. Their phone number is 707-546-4060.

A special thanks to Lili and her daughter Clara for recommending this wonderful museum.

Linda Summers Pirkle is a travel writer and long-term Danville resident. To share your “Quick Trips” ideas, email Coverthemap@gmail.com

Veteran Service Organizations (VSOs) meet at the Veterans Memorial Building of San Ramon Valley, located at 400 Hartz Avenue in Danville, except as otherwise noted. For more information, call the VSO at 925-313-1481.

• American Legion Post 246 meets on the first Wednesday of each month (except August) at noon. For information, visit www.americanlegionpost246.org , email commanderpost246@gmail.com , or call 925-272-8480.

• Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 75 of San Ramon Valley meets on the third Wednesday of each month at 7:30 PM. For information, visit vmbsrv. org or email info@vfwpost75.org

• Viet Nam Veterans of the Diablo Valley meets on the first Thursday of each month at 5 PM at Crow Canyon Country Club, 711 Silver Lake Drive, Danville. For information, visit http://vnvdv.org/index.html or call 925-838-6445.

• Marine Corps League Detachment 942 meets on the fourth Saturday of each month at 8:30 AM. For information, visit www.mcldet942.org .

• Blue Star Moms Detachment 101 meets on the second Wednesday of each month at 7PM. For information, visit www.bluestarmoms.org or call 925-587-4037.

• Veterans Memorial Building of San Ramon Valley holds coffees on Saturdays from 9 AM to noon.

HIKE HOPE for

MAY 4 Del Valle Regional Park, Livermore

Your participation helps Hope Hospice care for more than 2,000 East Bay neighbors each year. Money raised through registrations and supporting donations benefits patient care and helps keep grief support, dementia education, and caregiver resources available to the public at no charge.

Self-paced hike Barbecue lunch Lawn games Raf f le prizes Silent auction Fundraising

VALLEY VIGNETTE

By Beverly Lane

SAN RAMON VALLEY HISTORICAL SOCIETY PLANTS PLAQUES

Discovering historical markers around the San Ramon Valley can make for unusual outings and new insights into local history. Most of these Valley plaques have been researched and placed by the 50-year old San Ramon Valley Historical Society. Twenty-four have now been installed, from Alamo to San Ramon. The first appeared in 1972 at El Portal and Danville Blvd. commemorating the first Spanish expedition to visit our valley in 1772. This column has described most of these plaques. Learn more about a pair of the most recent plaques featuring San Ramon Village and the San Ramon railroad station.

The plaque describing San Ramon Village was installed on November 29, 2023. It was placed on the Fereira property along San Ramon Valley Blvd. near the south west corner of Deerwood Rd. (formerly Old Crow Canyon Rd.). When San Ramon celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2017, the city commemorated its historic community as well as the ranches which surrounded it. The village included businesses, civic buildings and homes located on both sides of Crow Canyon Road which extended west to “Haywards.”

As with any early villages, a blacksmith and general store were first to locate there, followed by saloons, homes, and a long-lived shoe and boot store. These buildings once centered around the intersection of today’s San Ramon Valley Blvd., Fostoria Way, and Deerwood Rd. San Ramon Creek went through the village, with an important bridge providing access over the main road.

The village’s heyday was the late 19th century. There was a grammar school, a Methodist Church, several general stores, blacksmiths, a jail, a Chinese laundry, several saloons, and a couple of hotels. We know the most about the San Ramon General Store which began around 1880. It hosted the post office and was a gathering place during and after hours (much card-playing). For 70 years, it was owned by father and son Harry and Henry Hurst, followed by William and Lena Fereira from 1924-1960. The classic and beloved school lasted nearly 100 years, from 1867 to 1950. The Thorup Shoe and Boot store was owned by the amiable Peder Thorup for over 50 years. In 1911, the San Ramon Hall was built by the community and used for parties, dances, graduations, and plays.

While people now ask, “Where is San Ramon?” referencing a core downtown, no one asked that before 1960 because most businesses were still there. With the coming of the freeway and the large Crow Canyon Road interchange, and with no active preservation groups in the country (let alone California), the old buildings were gradually razed. The general store was burned down as an exercise for the new San Ramon Fire District in 1963.

In 2022, the San Ramon Southern Pacific Station plaque was installed, again with a ceremonial unveiling. Set next to the Iron Horse Regional Trail as you walk south toward Fostoria, the plaque describes the large station land. It was the end point of the San Ramon Branch Line from 1891 to 1909, so it had a handsome depot and some other unique improvements. An engine house was in place along with a gallows turn table. The engine would be balanced on the turn table, then manually pushed to reverse the engine’s direction. Chief Bill Fereira recalled being told that a bell would ring and neighbors would join the railroad staff to turn the engine. After the Branch Line extended to Radum (part of Pleasanton) in 1909, neither the engine house nor turn table were needed.

When the train first opened during the summer of 1891, it was celebrated by Contra Costa cities, from Concord to San Ramon.

On June 10, 1891, the Contra Costa Gazette reported that in San Ramon Frank M. Tinnen, proprietor of the San Ramon Hotel in the village, met the first passengers in his carriage and took them to his hotel for rest and recuperation. For 25 cents they received an excellent meal. Unfortunately San Ramon’s village was a half-mile from the station which meant the local stores didn’t benefit much from the arrival of the Southern Pacific trains. Flag stops at Bishop Ranch and Forest Home Farms provided direct service for those large ranches.

Take advantage of the Iron Horse Trail and check out this handsome historic plaque.

Sources: San Ramon Branch Line of the Southern Pacific by Irma M. Dotson, San Ramon Chronicles by Beverly Lane.

San Ramon General Store

San Ramon Branch Line Station plaque.

CLIP NOTES

By Jody Morgan

Beatrix Potter’s talent for recording every element of the natural world is evident in her earliest artwork. Her 1875 sketchbook, done when she was not quite nine, includes remarkably realistic images of caterpillars and detailed descriptions of their habits. Born in London on July 28, 1866, Beatrix valued time spent at Camfield, the home of her grandparents, and the country places where her family vacationed for months at a time.

Lessons with professional artists supplemented Potter’s schooling by a succession of governesses. “Beatrix’s interest in drawing and painting mushrooms, or fungi, began as a passion for painting beautiful specimens wherever she found them,” explains Linda Lear in Beatrix Potter: A Life in Nature. “She never saw art and science as mutually exclusive activities, but recorded what she saw in nature primarily to evoke an aesthetic response.”

Potter’s earliest watercolors of fungi date from 1887. “But Beatrix was beginning to think of moving beyond the stage of drawings -- from observation to experimentation, and to theory; the spring of 1896 gave her opportunity,” writes Sarah Gristwood in The Story of Beatrix Potter: Her Enchanting Work and Surprising Life

Although admission to Kew Gardens was granted only to scientists pursuing an approved project, Potter’s uncle Sir Henry Roscoe, vice-chancellor of the University of London, got her a student ticket. Beatrix eventually managed to gain the support of Kew’s renowned mycologist. But when her paper on fungi was accepted for reading by the all-male Linnaean Society, she had three strikes against her: she lacked an academic degree; her research was not conducted in a proper laboratory; and worst of all, she was a woman. Presented on April 1, 1897, Potter’s paper was withdrawn a week later for unspecified reasons.

“In 1997 the Linnaean Society publicly acknowledged that she had been ‘treated scurvily’ a hundred years before. The theories she developed for herself are generally accepted today” (Gristwood). Although Beatrix was earning a bit of money with other scientific artwork, her fungi illustrations didn’t appear in print until 1967 when W.P.K. Findlay included 59 in Wayside and Woodland Fungi

Fortunately for generations of children entertained by Peter Rabbit, when scientists rejected her mycological research, Potter chose a different way of sharing her love of nature. She’d already been sending illustrated story letters to the children of her friends. To Noel, the oldest son of her last governess and lifetime friend Annie Carter Moore, Beatrix wrote on

STT continued from front page

September 4, 1893: “I don’t know what to write to you, so I will tell you a story about four little rabbits whose names were Flopsy, Mopsy, Cottontail and Peter.” In 1900, Annie suggested Beatrix should turn her picture letters into books for children.

After several publishers rejected the original manuscript, Potter self-published copies of The Tale of Peter Rabbit in 1901. In October1902, Frederick Warne & Co. released Potter’s revised edition. Popular demand had the firm printing 28,000 copies by year’s end.

Despite dressing her characters in human garb, Potter drew their anatomy and behavior from living models. Rabbits were always part of her menagerie of pets. She took Benjamin Bouncer strolling on a leash. She bought two squirrels to study for The Tale of Squirrel Nutkin. She rescued two kitchen raiders, named the mice Hunca Munca and Tom Thumb, and observed their antics exploring a furnished doll’s house stocked with platters of plaster food.

Finally having a plot of her own to plant when she purchased Hill Top Farm in 1905, Beatrix gratefully accepted gifts of hardy perennials from the gardens of her Near Sawrey Village neighbors. In The Writer’s Garden , Jackie Bennett notes: “It is rare to find a garden we know so much about. From Beatrix’s letters and notes we know she put in azaleas and laurels for shrub cover and interspersed them with lilies, hollyhocks, phlox, saxifrage and Japanese anemones.” Potter put apples, pears, and plums in her orchard underplanted with snowdrops and daffodils. Living at last as the country mouse she always wanted to be, Beatrix became a fierce protectress of ancient forests and pristine water.

From the time she wed William Heelis on October 15, 1913, Beatrix was known to her Lake District neighbors as Mrs. Heelis. She and her husband worked together to acquire parcels of land for preservation, managing and restoring the properties before selling or gifting them to the National Trust. Hill Top is open to the public today, with the garden looking much as Beatrix left it upon her death in 1943.

ings. If they do not have a bag, they are given a garbage bag. Just for a moment, put yourself in that child’s place, packing a garbage bag.”

Unfortunately, the first time a child is taken from a home is rarely the last. Henderson adds: “Many children in California’s foster care system experience frequent placement changes. Forty-four percent of the kids in foster care for 24 months or longer have three placements. Fifteen percent experience five or more placements.” Often children have only the clothing on their backs when they arrive at their next foster home. Set to Thrive receives daily requests from social workers. Each request is filled within a few days of receipt. STT packs a new Thrive Bag each time a child transitions to a different living situation.

Frequently, housing transitions also mean a change of schools. How self-conscious would you feel entering a new classroom in mid-year wearing the same outfit day after day or dressed in clothing cast-off by someone not quite your size? The STT request form gives social workers space to record not only the child’s sizes, but also color preferences and any detail such as a favorite character that would let the child feel personally valued. STT packs each Thrive Bag with three days’ worth of clothing (shirts, pants, socks, underwear, jacket), a new pair of shoes, a backpack, duffle bag, or diaper bag, and hygiene products.

Lisa notes: “Depending on the time of year, we will include extra items. For example, in winter, we include winter jackets, pajamas, and blankets. In our pre-teen and teen bags, we include clothing brands that are popular and will bring confidence as well as comfort. Each Thrive Bag is also customizable for all body shapes, products for all hair types, and LGBTQ+ ordering options.”

The Student Bag program was established in 2023 to provide Back-to-School supplies and holiday gifts. Recognizing the needs throughout the school year of students suddenly facing homelessness or a foster care transition, STT now packs Student Bags tailored to requests from school district personnel. Contents are selected to best give each child receiving a Student Bag a chance to attend classes with confidence and thrive in their school community. STT partners with many area school districts including San Ramon Valley Unified, Pittsburg Unified,

and Pleasanton Unified. Some of the many local public and private agencies STT supports are Agape Villages, Contra Costa CASA, Contra Costa Family Services, Alameda CASA, Alameda County Social Services, and EA Family Services. As more agencies discover this invaluable resource, the list continues to grow.

See STT continued on page 21

Mt. Diablo Unified, Dublin Unified,

Thrive Bag items customized for an infant and a 6 year-old girl are ready to comfort them.

Beatrix Potter, 1913

Open Monday - Thursday and the first two Saturdays of each month.

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.

ESTATE PLANNING FOR BLENDED FAMILIES

By Robert J. Silverman, Esq., Silverman & Jaffe Census reports reflects that over 15% of Americans, 40 million+ adults, have been married more than once.

In this context, blended family planning receives too little attention. I decided to revisit the topic, as I haven’t written about it in several years.

Estate planning is particularly important for blended families. Thoughtful planning helps avoid problems by balancing and reconciling competing interests among blended family members.

Let’s introduce a hypothetical case to explore some common issues that challenge many blended families. Next month’s article will delve deeper into these facts to illustrate various specific planning strategies. We have the J family: Jay, a divorcee, 70, with children, Jeff, 45 and Judy, 40; and the B family: Bea, a widow, 60, with a daughter, Betty, 30.

Jay brought into the marriage a paid off $1.5 million home, and cash, securities, and retirement plan funds totaling $500K. Jay and Bea live in Jay’s home. Bea brought into the marriage cash, securities, and retirement plan funds totaling $750K.

Jay and Bea should share with their estate planning attorney the following about themselves and their respective loved ones: health, children, income, assets, residence, and how they handle their finances. These factors will help identify the kinds of available estate planning choices that may best accomplish their objectives.

If Jay and Bea keep their assets separate, each may wish to establish (or keep and modify) separate estate plans, including separate Living Trusts under which they each make their own, independent decisions about to whom, how, and when their assets will be distributed on their respective deaths. Each Living Trust may or may not include distributions to his or her children, spouse, or a combination thereof, and some or all of these distributions might be made outright and/or be held and managed in trust for some period of time.

Another common alternative is for Jay and Bea to establish a joint Living Trust into which they place all of their collective assets. Such trusts typically split into two sub-trusts (“pots”) on the first death: one contains the deceased spouse’s assets; the other contains the surviving spouse’s assets. Once assets are segregated into these two sub-trusts following the first spouse’s death, sensitive decisions need to be made about the assets in the deceased spouse’s pot, including: a)What access - permitted or mandated distributions - if any, will the surviving spouse have to these assets? b) What assets, if any, will go directly to the deceased spouse’s children (i.e. instead of being held in trust for the needs of the surviving spouse)? and c) Who will serve as trustee (“manager”) during the surviving spouse’s lifetime?

Alternatively, some couples choose not to hold the deceased spouse’s assets in trust; instead, they mandate that a certain portion goes outright to the surviving spouse and a certain portion goes outright to the deceased spouse’s children.

Certainly, there are pros and cons associated with different ways to handle a deceased spouse’s assets. These sensitive, important issues should be explored carefully and decisions made about how each spouse, if he or she dies first, wishes to provide for his or her children and/or the surviving spouse. Discussing these issues and alternatives thoughtfully with an experienced estate planning attorney is crucial in enabling the attorney to draft customized estate planning documents that fosters the wishes of both spouses.

Sadly, poor (or no) planning frequently results in damaged or destroyed relationships, and sometimes litigation, between the surviving spouse and his or her stepchildren. Next month’s article will describe some strategies that may help guide Jay and Bea in making these challenging decisions.

|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 Silverman & Jaffe, 1910 Olympic Blvd., Suite 330, Walnut Creek, CA 94596; (925) 705-4474; rsilverman@silvermanjaffe.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

ALAMO IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION (AIA)

By Roger Smith, President

PROTECT YOURSELF AND NEIGHBORHOOD

Crime is impacting more and more citizens. We need to be better prepared to protect ourselves and our neighbors.

On Wednesday, April 24th from 6-6:45PM join us for a Zoom meeting to meet Farah Ali, our Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Specialist for the Neighborhood Watch program. Learn about the Crime Prevention Triangle, recognizing suspicious activity, reporting a crime, preventing mailbox and package theft, and Operation I.D. Visit www.AlamoCA.org for the Zoom access code.

You can also contact CSU@so.cccounty.us, to reach the specialist in your area for crime prevention information, Neighborhood Watch guidance, and community events.

Provide crime tips by using any of the following methods: Office of the Sheriff Investigation Division - 925-313-2600; Office of the Sheriff Dispatch - 925-646-2441; Anonymous Voice Message - 866-846-3592; Email - tips@ so.cccounty.us. As a reminder, do not call 911 unless you have an emergency or life-threatening situation.

SURVEY RESULTS

As a follow up to our introduction to the Alamo Community Survey results, conducted at the end of 2023, here is what 156 members of the community told us was important to them.

Regarding the most pressing needs of our community, the top three are:

Safety and Protection from Theft

Residents are concerned about the rise in thefts, both residential and commercial, and the potential impact on property values. This is clearly a concern for all. It calls for us all to perhaps be more aware than we have been in the past, to tasks such as locking doors and windows, and bringing in our packages as soon as possible. It’s also an opportunity for us to be good neighbors and keep our eyes open for each other!

Retaining the Look and Feel of Alamo

The second concern is retaining the look and feel of Alamo. With state-mandated development, residents are concerned about the necessary infrastructure to accommodate those changes (roads, schools, emergency capabilities, safety, etc.), as well as losing the rural feel of Alamo.

Traffic Management

The third concern was around traffic in Alamo - busy, noisy, and with more high density housing to come, this concern was heightened.

Please email your comments to President@AlamoCA.org or SupervisorAndersen@bos.cccounty.us.

ALAMO FARMER’S MARKET

Please join us and your neighbors in experiencing live music at the Alamo Farmers Market, pick up some beautiful produce including citrus, apples, and green leaf and root vegetables, ready-made food, and other goods. Our vendors welcome the opportunity to discuss their work and produce with you.

The Market is sponsored by AIA and is open rain or shine on Sundays from 9AM – 2PM in Alamo Plaza, off of Danville Blvd., near Bank of America. Please look for updated information about the Market on NextDoor.

HAPPY 69TH BIRTHDAY

AIA, a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, has 69 years 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 local residents, membership forms, and more.

Please watch (in May) for your upcoming AIA 2024 Annual Report, ballot, and membership form. Complete and return it to AIA, P.O. Box 156, Alamo, CA 94507.

AIA is an all-volunteer organization, 100% of membership dues go to support our Alamo Community!

TECHNOLOGY MATTERS RIGHT TO REPAIR

By Evan Corstorphine, Portable CIO, Inc.

Computers and electronic devices are virtually everywhere you look. Our society is dependent on them, and sometimes they break. Repairing them can be difficult to impossible, and we waste a lot of money replacing items that could have been fixed. California has been at the forefront of the right to repair movement with the passing of SB244, a law that aims to give consumers more control over their electronic devices. The law, which went into effect on January 1, 2021, requires manufacturers of electronic devices to provide access to repair manuals, diagnostic tools, and parts to independent repair shops and consumers. I salute this law and think it’s overdue.

This law empowers consumers by giving them the right to choose where to get their devices repaired. This, in turn, promotes competition among repair shops, which leads to lower prices and better service for consumers. Additionally, it reduces electronic waste by making it easier for consumers to repair their devices rather than replacing them.

One of the key arguments for the right to repair is the issue of planned obsolescence. Manufacturers often design products with limited lifespans or make it difficult for consumers to repair them in order to encourage more frequent upgrades. Not to pick on Apple, but, take Apple for example. Their computers are closed systems. If you don’t like the size of your storage or the amount of RAM you have, go buy another computer because the one you have cannot be upgraded or altered in any way. This can be costly for consumers and harmful to the environment as e-waste continues to grow at an alarming rate. By providing access to repair manuals and parts, SB244 seeks to address this issue and promote sustainability.

There are a lot of technical people in the community who would be happy to repair equipment if the information and parts were only available. Allowing access to repair manuals and parts levels the playing field and strengthens the local economy. This can also create job opportunities and encourage entrepreneurship in the repair industry.

Not everyone is in favor of SB244 and the right to repair movement. An argument against the law is that it could compromise the security and privacy of electronic devices. To this I say, “piffle.” We in the IT industry already work in and around important customer data, and we have codes of conduct, privacy agreements, non-disclosure agreements, and strong ethical guidelines that create a safe environment for our customers. Working around client data isn’t new. Some manufacturers argue that providing access to repair tools and manuals could make it easier for hackers to exploit vulnerabilities in the devices. This could pose a risk to consumers’ personal information and even national security. I think this is largely a red herring argument. There will absolutely be someone who figures out how to hack a device. And, there are people who drink too much, and people who drive too fast. That doesn’t mean we are going to ban booze or cars, it means we act against people doing dumb or illegal things.

Another argument against the right to repair is that it could mean lower sales for companies who sell technology because people begin repairing gear instead of throwing it away and buying new devices. There is probably a small merit in this argument, but not enough to make a difference. If it means a company’s sales growth is 12.5% instead of 12.75% year-over-year, is that a reason to avoid all the good to people and the environment a law like this promotes? It is inevitable that some manufacturers will use this as justification for increasing costs to consumers. Manufacturers claim that providing access to repair manuals and parts could add to the production costs of devices, which could be passed on to consumers in the form of higher prices. Additionally, opponents of the right to repair argue that allowing unauthorized repairs could lead to substandard repairs that may void warranties and compromise the quality and safety of the devices. Judge for yourself.

Despite these arguments against the right to repair, many consumers and repair advocates believe that the benefits outweigh the potential drawbacks. The right to repair movement has gained momentum in recent years, with several states considering legislation similar to our SB244.

Ultimately, the right to repair is about giving consumers more control over their purchases and promoting a more sustainable approach to electronics. We generate SO MUCH waste. While there are legitimate concerns about security, innovation, and costs, it is clear that there is a strong demand for access to repair information and parts. As technology continues to advance, it is important for policymakers, manufacturers, and consumers to strike a balance that ensures both the right to repair and the protection of consumers and the environment.

Is your equipment in need of repair? Email us at info@pcioit.com or give us a call, 925-552-7953 and we’ll put you on the right track. Advertorial

ACHIEVING FINANCIAL INDEPENDENCE

EMBRACING A HOLISTIC APPROACH

By Peter T. Waldron, Managing Partner of Waldron Partners

Striving for financial independence is a universally shared pursuit. Yet, the definition of financial freedom is as personal as one’s fingerprint. Our financial lives transcend merely looking at the numbers; they encapsulate our aspirations, fears, and responsibilities. When contemplating financial independence, we must eschew ‘one-size-fits-all’ models for a more comprehensive, bespoke strategy.

Navigating this intricate tapestry requires a delicate balance of foresight and adaptability. It’s a framework that not only enhances current financial stability but is agile enough to respond to life’s dynamic changes. Welcome to the new era of financial planning — one that is not just meticulous, but fluid, responsive, and continuously evolving.

UNVEILING THE TRUE MEANING OF FINANCIAL INDEPENDENCE

Financial independence is often misconstrued as the arrival point — the mythical ‘there’ of complete financial freedom. In reality, it’s neither a static goalpost nor an endpoint; it’s a continuous spectrum of financial well-being shaped by our values, experiences, and current stage of life. Understanding the nuances of financial independence demands that we discard conventional benchmarks and adopt a more fluid approach that stipulates a future of autonomy within a personalized context.

For Waldron Partners, the journey to financial independence is your narrative — we’re the ink that helps articulate it into an actionable plan.

THE DYNAMIC CANVAS OF FINANCIAL PLANNING

Some financial planners paint a picture with broad strokes — savings rates, investment portfolios, and retirement ages. But our financial lives are mosaics woven from countless threads, each one representing a different aspect of our well-being. Here’s where we stand apart.

At Waldron Partners, we champion a dynamic model of financial planning that incorporates the latest technological advances and the most sophisticated tools at our disposal—like the eMoney platform—with old-world values of trust, integrity, and service. We know that true wealth management extends beyond balance sheets, which is why we focus on crafting personalized financial symphonies rather than portfolios.

CRITICAL TOUCHSTONES ON THE PATH TO FINANCIAL INDEPENDENCE

Ensuring your financial plan reflects your life’s complexity is no easy feat. It involves constant reassessment, recalibration, and readiness to adjust the sails as the winds of change blow. Here’s our compass to guide you through these critical touchstones.

INCORPORATING MONTE CARLO ANALYSIS FOR RESILIENCE

The phrase “life is what happens when you’re busy making other plans” rings especially true in the financial realm. This unpredictability underscores the importance of resilient planning. Our comprehensive approach includes Monte Carlo simulations*—a probabilistic model that takes into account numerous potential future scenarios, preparing you for a wide array of financial outcomes.

THE ALL-ENCOMPASSING FINANCIAL VISION

Financial planning is the art of the comprehensive. True financial independence requires you to paint your objectives with broad strokes, understanding how each facet of your financial landscape interconnects. It is not only about you; it is about those you support and the legacy you wish to leave behind.

ASSUMPTIONS IN FINANCIAL MODELING — KNOWING YOUR VARIABLES

Your financial model is only as good as its inputs. We believe in transparency and demystifying the assumptions within your financial plan, showing you how changes to variables can alter your trajectory.

STAYING ABREAST IN A WORLD OF FLUX

Tax laws evolve, markets are mercurial, and personal circumstances transform. On the path towards financial independence demands vigilance and adaptability. At Waldron Partners, we provide the necessary tools to weather these changes, conducting regular reviews of your financial plan to ensure it remains aligned with your objectives.

IT’S NOT A SPREADSHEET, IT’S YOUR FINANCIAL PORTRAIT

Gone are the days of cookie-cutter financial plans. Today’s landscape requires personalized and ongoing reviews of your financial portfolio. We commit to understanding the nuances that make your situation unique, ensuring your plan is a reflection of who you are, not just where you are.

CRAFTING A ROADMAP THAT SPEAKS YOUR FINANCIAL LANGUAGE

We understand that financial independence is a voyage, not a destination. It’s about adopting a financial philosophy that empowers you to live your best life while ensuring a safety net robust enough to capture even the most unexpected joys and challenges.

Our philosophy is inscribed in the plans we craft, the strategies we deploy, and the relationships we build — each one uniquely tailored to you, your loved ones, and the legacy you wish to create. Our team at Waldron Partners invites you to redefine financial independence on your terms — and we are here to guide you every step of the way.

In this ongoing pursuit of financial liberty, Waldron Partners is more than just a financial advisory practice — it’s an ally in your quest for unassailable independence.

Are you ready to redefine your financial independence? We stand prepared to be your guide. Contact us today, and start the conversation that could change the course of your financial future. Gather the courage to step into the power of knowledge, and experience the transformational potential of our services for yourself.

*The projections or other information generated by Monte Carlo simulations regarding the likelihood of various investment outcomes are hypothetical in nature, do not reflect actual investment results and are not guarantees of future results.

We can help you with your financial situation. Contact Peter today at 925-708-7397 or peter.waldron@lfg.com.

REMOTE HELPDESK SUPPORT AVAILABLE

SHED POUNDS, GAIN HEALTH FORGE A PATH TO YOUR IDEAL WEIGHT

By Dr. Niele Maimone, DC

In the pursuit of sustainable weight loss and improved health, traditional approaches often fall short of delivering lasting results. However, a groundbreaking solution has emerged at Align Healing Center, where cutting-edge science meets personalized care. Our innovative weight loss program combines the power of the peptide tirzepatide with the principles of functional medicine to revolutionize how individuals achieve their weight loss goals. Let’s delve into how this unique approach can transform lives and foster long-term wellness.

UNDERSTANDING TIRZEPATIDE

Tirzepatide represents a breakthrough in weight management, offering a novel mechanism of action that targets multiple pathways involved in appetite regulation and metabolic function. Tirzepatide regulates blood sugar by mimicking natural hormones, promoting insulin release, and suppressing glucagon. This peptide therapy offers enhanced satiety, reduced food intake, and improved glucose control. By harnessing the synergistic effects of these hormones, tirzepatide promotes weight loss in individuals with excess weight, paving the way for sustainable and meaningful results.

INTEGRATION WITH FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE

At Align Healing Center, we believe in addressing the root causes of weight gain and metabolic dysfunction through a holistic approach to health and wellness. Our weight loss program goes beyond calorie counting and restrictive diets, embracing the principles of functional medicine to optimize overall health and vitality. Our team of experts identifies underlying imbalances and tailors treatment plans to each individual’s unique needs by conducting comprehensive and personalized evaluations.

THE ALIGN PROGRAM

Personalized Assessment and Evaluation: Our weight loss program begins with a thorough review of your medical history, lifestyle habits, metabolic markers, and nutritional status. You will complete a blood test that will give us insight into your unique metabolic profile so we can develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your body’s specific metabolic and nutritional needs.

Targeted Tirzepatide Therapy: Tirzepatide is at the core of our weight loss program, offering a powerful tool for appetite suppression, calorie reduction, and metabolic optimization. Scientific research has shown tirzepatide to exhibit more significant weight loss with fewer side effects compared to semaglutide. Under the guidance of our experienced healthcare providers, your tirzepatide dosing is customized to meet your individual needs, with close monitoring and adjustments to ensure safety and efficacy.

Guidance and Nutrient Support: Nutrition plays a crucial role in weight management and overall health. Our program offers vitamin shots, specific metabolic supplements, weekly injections and weigh-ins to support your metabolic function and weight loss success. We emphasize whole, nutrient-dense foods and provide support to help you make sustainable lifestyle changes.

Ongoing Monitoring and Support: Our commitment to your success extends beyond the initial consultation. Throughout your weight loss journey, our team provides regular follow-ups to measure your weight, fat loss, and muscle mass to track progress, address any challenges, and celebrate your achievements along the way.

BENEFITS OF THE PROGRAM

Sustainable Weight Loss: Tirzepatide therapy, combined with functional medicine principles, promotes sustainable weight loss by addressing underlying metabolic imbalances and supporting healthy lifestyle changes.

Improved Metabolic Health: Tirzepatide and functional medicine work synergistically to optimize metabolic function, regulate appetite, and improve insulin sensitivity, leading to better blood sugar control and reduced risk of chronic diseases.

Enhanced Overall Well-being: Beyond weight loss, our program aims to improve your overall well-being, empowering you to feel more energetic, confident, and vibrant as you reclaim control of your health.

At Align Healing Center, our weight loss program represents a paradigm shift in the approach to weight management, combining the latest advancements in peptide therapy with the holistic principles of functional medicine. If you’re ready to embark on a transformative journey towards lasting weight loss and improved health, we invite you to join us and experience the power of our weight loss program. Together, we can achieve your goals and unlock the vibrant, healthy life you deserve.

Align Healing Center has been a staple in providing quality health care to the community of Danville since 1999. To set up a weight loss consult or to get started with our weight loss program, call 925-362-8283 or visit www. alignhealingcenter.com for online booking. Advertorial

COSMETIC ENHANCEMENTS MEET HEALTHY HABITS

By Barbara L Persons, MD, FACS

Summer is on the horizon, and with it comes the desire to look and feel your best on the beach. Here’s a multifaceted approach to feeling confident this season, focusing on healthy habits, self-care, and some feel-good boosters. While a healthy lifestyle is key to long-term wellbeing, cosmetic procedures can provide that extra boost of confidence for the season of sunshine and swimsuits. But, remember, these enhancements should complement, not replace, a healthy approach to your body. Sun-kissed skin, not sunburned.

FUEL YOUR BODY FOR FUN

• Nourish, Don’t Deprive: Dieting doesn’t have to be restrictive. Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Lean proteins and healthy fats will keep you energized for summer activities.

• Hydration is Key: Water is essential for overall health and can even give your skin a natural summer glow. Aim for eight glasses a day, consider adding fruits like watermelon or cucumber for extra flavor.

EMBRACE YOUR INNER ATHLETE

• Find Activities You Love: From swimming and beach volleyball to yoga or brisk walks, choose workouts you enjoy. Consistency is key, so pick something you can stick with.

• Strength Training Matters: Building muscle helps you burn more calories at rest, even while soaking up the sun. Bodyweight exercises or light weights are a great way to start.

TAKING CARE OF YOUR SKIN

• Sun Safety First: Avoid harsh rays between 10AM and 4PM. Liberally apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, and reapply every two hours or more often after swimming.

• Natural Tan Alternatives: Self-tanners can add a healthy-looking glow without sun damage. Look for gradual tanners with natural ingredients to build up a natural-looking tan.

CONFIDENCE BOOSTERS

• Find Your Perfect Suit: A swimsuit that flatters your figure will do wonders for your confidence. Don’t be afraid to try different styles and colors to find what makes you feel amazing.

• Self-Care Rituals: Feeling good on the inside radiates outward. Treat yourself to a massage, facials with natural products, or dedicate time to activities you find relaxing. REMEMBER

• Celebrate Your Body: Everybody is a beach body! Focus on how strong and capable your body is, rather than achieving unrealistic beauty standards.

• Confidence is Key: The most attractive quality is confidence. Rock what you’ve got. Focus on having fun in the sun!

SCULPTING YOUR SUMMER CONFIDENCE: OUTPATIENT COSMETIC OPTIONS

Summer whispers of sunny days, beach trips, and poolside lounging. But for many, the approaching season can also bring a touch of trepidation. The ideal of a “summer body” is often unrealistic, and crash diets or intense workouts might not be the answer. However, outpatient cosmetic procedures offer a range of options to help you feel more confident and ready to embrace the sunshine.

Targeting Trouble Spots - Liposuction: Let’s face it, stubborn fat deposits can linger despite our best efforts. Liposuction, a minimally invasive procedure, uses suction to remove unwanted fat from areas like the abdomen, thighs, and arms. This can create a more sculpted appearance, but keep in mind there’s still some recovery time involved.

Laser Treatments: Laser treatments offer another avenue for skin tightening. By delivering targeted beams of light, they can stimulate collagen and elastin, improving skin texture and reducing the appearance of wrinkles. While some laser treatments require more downtime than others, they can be a great way to achieve a more youthful look for summer.

Beyond Body Contouring: Laser Hair Removal and Sclerotherapy: Summer often means baring more skin, and unwanted body hair can be a source of self-consciousness. Laser hair removal offers a long-term solution, targeting hair follicles with laser light to reduce growth permanently. While multiple sessions are typically required, for many, the results are worth it.

Consultation is Key: Outpatient cosmetic procedures can be a great way to boost your summer confidence. However, it’s important to remember that these are medical procedures, and a consultation with a qualified professional is crucial. Discuss your goals, health history, and desired recovery time to determine the best option for you. With careful planning and realistic expectations, outpatient cosmetic procedures can help you feel your absolute best this summer.

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.

THE EYE OPENER

By Gregory Kraskowsky, O.D., Alamo Optometry

COMPUTER VISION SYNDROME

There is great interest in computer eyestrain due to increased computer use since the pandemic. Prior to the pandemic, computer eyestrain affected more than 70% of the approximately 143 million American adults who work on a computer daily, according to the American Optometric Association (AOA). Those numbers don’t include children in school or college who use their computers more than ever before. Computer and phone use were extremely prevalent prior to the onset of COVID four years ago; however, with more adults working from home, computer use has only increased.

Computer eyestrain and computer vision syndrome (CVS) are caused by our eyes and brain reacting differently to characters on a computer screen than they do to printed characters. Our eyes have little problem focusing on printed material that has dense black characters with well-defined edges. But characters on a computer screen do not have the same degree of contrast and definition. Words on a computer screen are created by combinations of tiny points of light (pixels), which are brightest at the center and diminish in intensity toward their edges. This makes it more difficult for our eyes to maintain focus on these images. When you spend more than two hours per day in front of a computer screen, it is likely you will experience some degree of CVS. Symptoms of CVS include headaches, burning and tired eyes, blurred vision, double vision, and neck and shoulder pain.

It is a fact that the eyes were not designed for the increased near tasks that are part of todays world. The dramatic increase of near-sightedness, fatigue, eye strain, etc., were not part of our society prior to the invention of the computer. Since screens (desktops, laptops, iPads, smartphones, etc.) are part of our daily lives, there is not much we can do about that. However, when screen time is not required for work or school, we absolutely need to reduce our use outside of the necessary tasks. Besides reducing screentime, there are several things you can do to help with the symptoms of CVS.

First, attempt to cut down on the glare at your screen by altering the lighting near your desk. Second, keep your head above the level of your monitor. This will allow you to be more ergonomic and reduce neck and shoulder strain. Third, permit yourself to take breaks from the monitor. Allow for a short one-minute period of rest about every 30 minutes; look out a window, down the hall, get a drink of water, or just close your eyes to allow you to defocus from the monitor. Lastly, stay hydrated. We recommend drinking plenty of water, and using lubricating drops as needed. It is also recommended to reduce your caffeine intake, as it is a diuretic and dries your eyes out further.

However, the most important thing is to make sure you have computer prescription glasses, either single vision, digital, or progressives. Prescription lenses can be tailored specifically to each patient depending on their situation. Having an up-to-date prescription can reduce the amount of strain and focus necessary for continued monitor work. In addition, lenses with a high-quality blue protect anti-glare coating will not only make your lenses look cosmetically better, but will reduce about 95% of the glare from your monitor.

We are increasingly finding that CVS is not a condition for adults only due to the increase in children on their phones and screens. CVS requires a multi-factorial approach; ergonomics, current eyewear with coatings, staying hydrated, and taking breaks will all help to alleviate these problems. We are more than happy to discuss your optical and ocular health options and what would work best for you at your 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) 8206622, or visit his office at 3201 Danville Blvd., Suite 165, in Alamo. For more information, visit www.alamooptometry.com, or follow on Facebook and Instagram @Alamo Optometry. Advertorial Bunny continued from front page

His migraines loomed over our whole family, and I had to quit my job to manage his doctor’s appointments, scans, and treatments. With everything suddenly a trigger, home study became his only option. On bad days he could not leave his room, let alone the house.

Solitary and lonely, he read about emotional support animals. He knew that he couldn’t walk our dog on his bad days and I’m allergic to cats, so his research led him to house rabbits, a novel idea to us. When he told me that a spayed/neutered rabbit is easier to litter box train than a cat, I was intrigued.

He found East Bay Rabbit Rescue online and convinced me to take him to an adoption event, just to look. Once we arrived, I soon realized we weren’t leaving without a bunny. And so it began, our life with rabbits.

Our beautiful bunny Luna, a whopping 11 pounds, has a joyful personality. When my son lies down on the floor to pet her, she “grooms” him back by licking his face. She’ll follow him from room to room, always ready to be petted or given a treat! And although she loves us all, my son is definitely “her person.” Luna puts a smile on his face with her leaps and enthusiasm for greens and fresh hay. She lives in the moment and reminds us to enjoy each moment we can too.

Rabbits are somewhat independent, yet Luna somehow seems to know he needs love and comfort when a migraine hits. With migraines often striking in the middle of the night, he is no longer alone. She’ll hop up on his bed and just lie next to him. He feels reassured knowing she is sleeping in her x-pen nearby. He enjoys taking care of her too. He is happy to make Luna feel safe and loved. I believe she gave his life purpose in a time of great need.

We have since learned a lot about migraines, and he is managing with the right medications and support measures. This is a big year for our family with my son in his freshman year of college. He is staying healthy, handling the change and the stress. Already after just a few weeks at school, he came home for a visit. His father and I are delighted that we get to see him, even if his motivation is to see Luna!

Next year Brendan plans to live off campus so he can bring Luna with him. Until then, they stay connected through FaceTime calls. Brendan seeing Luna on camera always brings a smile to his face and Luna visibly livens up with the sound of his voice.

I am grateful that Luna came into our lives for the blessing she has been to my son.

If you’re interested in adopting a rabbit, reach out to East Bay Rabbit Rescue (www.eastbayrabbit.org).

DANVILLE THRIFT STATION SEEKS NEW VOLUNTEERS

Volunteers, 18 years and older, are needed at The Thrift Station in Danville. This year the store celebrates 50 years of serving the local community, selling new and gently used donations. Store proceeds support the exceptional, low-cost, broad-reaching mental health services provided by Discovery Counseling Center of the San Ramon Valley. Discovery’s mental health services are integrated into all San Ramon Valley public schools.

The Thrift Station is an all-volunteer organization of dedicated, welcoming, and enthusiastic volunteers supported by a large, loyal customer base. The store is open Monday through Saturday from 10AM to 4PM, and is located at 486 San Ramon Valley Blvd. in the Crossroads Shopping Center in Danville-next to Los Panchos restaurant. The phone number is 925-820-1988.

If you are interested in joining the warm and welcoming volunteer family, please complete the application form at www.discoveryctr.net/the-thrift-station or email the Membership VP at Thriftvols@gmail.com. You can also stop by the store and apply in person by filling out a blue form kept near the front register. Volunteers agree to work two 3-hour shifts a month. Come join the family of volunteers!

by Naomi Davis

Experience Lasting Relief from Back Pain and Sciatica!

Are you one of the 50 million adults in the U.S. grappling with the debilitating e ects of low back pain and sciatica? e agony of shooting, stabbing, and burning pains, coupled with muscle wasting and numbness, can drain the joy out of life. But fear not, because relief is within reach.

Introducing Non-Surgical Re-constructive Spinal Care

Recent advances in spinal care have paved the way for non-surgical solutions that have seen remarkable success rates.

Published in major medical journals, these treatments, with success rates reaching 90%, are becoming a rst-choice recommendation by some back surgeons.

In Alamo, e Wellness Institute, led by Dr. George Khoury, a Board Certi ed Doctor of Natural Medicine, o ers hope and healing for those su ering from back pain and sciatica. Dr. Khoury and his team of specialized spinal care experts have aided over 32,000 patients in nding relief from their excruciating pain.

A Unique Approach to Healing

Dr. Khoury emphasizes a unique blend of ultra-advanced diagnostic technology and a specialized program for reconstructing the damaged areas causing pain. is approach ensures superior, long-term results for the majority of patients.

STT continued from page 14

Breakthrough Relief for Stenosis and Sciatica

Niki D. from Danville shares her success story, "My back pain was unbearable, but the worst thing was the searing, burning pain in my buttock and leg. I couldn’t work or do anything useful, and the drugs my M.D. prescribed hardly did anything. ankfully, I called your number. I was 95% better in just a couple of weeks."

Your Path to Relief Starts Here

Take advantage of this exclusive o er for readers: Mention this article when you call 925-690-5001 and receive an in-depth consultation, examination, and x-rays for only $49, a $201 savings from the regular $250 cost.

Don't endure another moment of pain and immobility. Discover the natural treatment that can eliminate the cause of your problem and provide you with the safe, lasting relief you deserve. Schedule your comprehensive evaluation at e Wellness Institute today. Call 925-690-5001 and bring this valuable article to your appointment.

STT’s 2024 goal is to gradually extend service to vulnerable children in additional counties.

Kathy Bargar recently joined the STT Board of Directors. Her goal as a board member is to support the connection between STT and the clinicians/professionals working directly with foster children and unhoused children. She writes: “As a social worker myself, I’ve interacted with the child welfare system professionally and seen more than a few cases wherein children have had to leave their home (sometimes in the middle of the night) with only the shoes on their feet and anything else stuffed into a pillowcase. The idea of bringing dignity to this group resonated with me.”

ousands have found solace in Dr. Khoury's approach, and you can too. Act now, and take the rst step towards a pain-free life. Your journey to lasting relief begins with a call to e Wellness Institute.

e Wellness Institute

925-690-5001

www.wellnessinstitute.io

3189 Danville Blvd. #230 Alamo, CA 94507

Kathy was searching for a way to help the community in a direct hands-on project when she discovered STT. She recalls: “I attended a few activities helping to put together Thrive Bags for children navigating the foster care system and was immediately drawn to the way STT provides actual durable goods to kids at a time when they need them most.” When she hosted a backpack drive last year, the generosity of members of our community renewed her faith in humanity. She appreciates the announcements from Lisa Henderson and the rest of the STT team telling volunteers about where the Thrive Bags and Student Bags they’ve packed have been delivered.

Long-time Danville resident Jennifer Perkins, who raised three children in the community, discovered what STT was offering when she overheard someone asking Lisa about how her new non-profit was doing. She writes: “I was drawn to Lisa’s enthusiasm as well as the noble goal of helping foster children in our area. I love the idea of making a difference in our own community for the most vulnerable population.” Jennifer praises Lisa’s dedication. “She works tirelessly to make the lives of foster children more stable, more comfortable and less uncertain.”

Asked about what she knew about the needs of children in foster care before volunteering with STT, Perkins responds: “I was formerly a Deputy District Attorney in Solano County and through this work I was exposed to the foster care system and children being removed from their homes for various reasons. The focus of my job was not to address the immediate clothing and/or hygiene needs of the children, but it was not lost on me that children in the foster care system feel scared, uncertain, and alone. This is why I believe STT is necessary to help children just be children rather than worrying about

From left to right: Kayle Rago (Clinic Admin), David Barnett (Head erapy Technician), Dr. George Khoury, Amber Butler (Clinic Director)

Lisa Henderson, STT Founder (L) and Tracie Marquez, STT volunteer (R) greet attendees at Set to Thrive's first annual golf tournament.

DOES COOLSCULPTING WORK?

By Jerome Potozkin, MD

As the days lengthen and the flowers begin to bloom, springtime heralds a season of renewal and rejuvenation. It’s a time when many of us strive to shed the vestiges of winter and emerge feeling refreshed and confident. For those seeking a non-invasive solution to sculpting their physique, spring is the perfect time to consider CoolSculpting. And to answer the question, CoolSculpting definitely works.

HOW DOES COOLSCULPTING WORK?

CoolSculpting, also known as cryolipolysis, is a revolutionary non-surgical fat reduction treatment that targets stubborn pockets of fat resistant to diet and exercise. Developed by Harvard scientists, CoolSculpting works by precisely cooling targeted fat cells to temperatures that trigger their natural elimination process, without harming the surrounding tissues. Over the following weeks and months, the body naturally metabolizes and eliminates these fat cells, resulting in a more sculpted and contoured appearance.

WHO ARE GOOD CANDIDATES FOR COOLSCULPTING?

Ideal candidates for CoolSculpting are individuals who are close to their ideal weight but struggle with localized areas of fat that are resistant to traditional weight loss methods. Common treatment areas include the abdomen, love handles, thighs, arms, and chin. It’s important to note that CoolSculpting is not a weight loss solution for obese individuals, but rather a body contouring procedure for those seeking to refine their silhouette.

BENEFITS FOR BOTH MEN AND WOMEN

One of the remarkable aspects of CoolSculpting is its versatility—it is equally effective for both men and women. Whether you’re a man looking to minimize those pesky love handles or a woman seeking to slim down your tummy or thighs, CoolSculpting can help you achieve your aesthetic goals without surgery or downtime. Its ability to target specific areas of concern makes it an attractive option for individuals of all genders looking to enhance their physique.

ADVANTAGES OVER SURGICAL PROCEDURES

Unlike traditional liposuction or other surgical procedures, CoolSculpting

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the negativity of the world around them.”

As an STT volunteer, Jennifer shops for clothing to go in the Thrive Bags and Student Bags, packs bags, and delivers bags to social workers in Contra Costa and Alameda Counties. Having volunteered at STT’s first annual golf tournament in October 2023, she is looking forward to this year’s event.

“FORE! The Kids Golf Tournament,” a fun-packed fundraiser for STT, takes place at the Bay Club Crow Canyon on Monday, June 24th. STT is also planning a Fall Family Festival benefit concert and barbecue on Sunday, September 22nd at the Barn in San Ramon.

Rapidly increasing requests for Thrive Bags and Student Bags, as well as generous donations of goods from corporate and private donors, rendered the organization’s original storage facility inadequate. Henderson reports about STT’s new location: “Having our warehouse is a game changer. We moved in on Saturday, February 3rd and we have had a lot of support with organizing the bins, shoes, backpacks, and other items. Our goal is to bring different teams of individuals and families together and support our most vulnerable children.”

On Saturday, March 2 nd, ten Pledge to Humanity (PTH) Kids came to work for three hours. Lisa lauds their incredible accomplishments, “They inventoried clothing, backpacks, and shoes. They also put together hundreds of bundles of socks. They were very productive.” Most appreciative of the dedicated and efficient contribution of the PTH Kids, STT is eager to welcome more PTH student volunteers. PTH empowers children and young adults to improve the lives of other children, families, and adults by volunteering in local and global projects. Helping STT prepare practical, timely, and thoughtfully customized supplies for area children most in need gives PTH student volunteers a chance to make a difference close to home.

How can you support Set to Thrive’s mission? Donate items from the STT Amazon Wishlist or Target Wishlist. Volunteer or host a backpack drive. Sign up for an event. To learn more, visit settothrive.org.

offers several distinct advantages:

1. Non-Invasive: CoolSculpting requires no incisions, anesthesia, or downtime, making it a convenient option for those with busy lifestyles.

2. Minimal Discomfort: Patients may experience a sensation of cold and mild pressure during treatment, but these sensations typically subside quickly, allowing for a comfortable and pain-free experience.

3. Natural-Looking Results: Because CoolSculpting targets fat cells specifically, results appear gradually over several weeks, resulting in a natural-looking reduction in fat without the risk of uneven contours or scarring.

4. No Recovery Time: Unlike surgical procedures that require days or weeks of recovery, CoolSculpting allows patients to return to their normal activities immediately after treatment, making it an ideal option for those with busy schedules.

ENHANCING RESULTS WITH COOLTONE

For those looking to further enhance their results, CoolTone offers a complementary solution. CoolTone is an FDA-cleared muscle toning treatment offered in our practice that uses magnetic muscle stimulation (MMS) technology to strengthen, tone, and firm the muscles in targeted areas such as the abdomen, buttocks, and thighs. When combined with CoolSculpting, CoolTone can help sculpt and define your physique, providing a comprehensive approach to body contouring.

As the season of renewal unfolds, there’s no better time to embrace your best self and achieve the body you’ve always desired. With CoolSculpting, you can confidently say goodbye to stubborn fat and hello to a more sculpted silhouette—all without surgery or downtime. Whether you’re a man or woman seeking to refine your physique, CoolSculpting offers a safe, effective, and convenient solution to help you look and feel your best this spring and beyond. Interested? Call us today!

Dr. Jerome Potozkin is a Board Certified Dermatologist and Board Certified Micrographic Dermatologic Surgeon specializing in minimally and non-invasive cosmetic procedures. He is the author of “Botox and Beyond: Your Guide to Safe Non-Surgical Cosmetic Procedures.” The practice is accepting new patients and can be reached at (925) 838-4900 and www. MyBeautyMd.com. Advertorial

Pledge to Humanity student volunteers inventory stock and help organize STT’s news warehouse.

YOUR PERSONAL NUTRITIONISTS

BEST NUTRITION FOR DIABETES

By Linda Michaelis RD, MS and Jackie Peterson RD CDCES

Let me remind you of my new associate Jackie Peterson RD, CDCES. In addition to helping our diabetic clients with nutritional counseling, she trains them on the use of insulin pumps and Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs). These people are referred to us by endocrinologists to help their patients use insulin pumps and CGMs while learning to adopt to a customized food plan for their lifestyle and food preferences. Though these new devices help quite a lot, they do not take away the importance of nutrition. Addressing diabetes comes down to making major changes in your diet along with lifestyle changes to bring your blood sugar levels to a normal range

Many studies show that Type 2 Diabetes has become a major epidemic and is a co-morbidity of cancer, heart disease, and stroke. Your physician will confirm a Type 2 Diabetes diagnosis by looking at several blood sugar tests along with results of an A1C, which should not be greater than 6.5%. The A1C test indicates your average glucose level over the past three months. Through counseling, we are usually able to get our clients’ A1C down from 8.6% to 6.5% in three months and avoid additional medication to reduce the levels.

The first reaction to a Type 2 Diabetes diagnosis is often shock, fear, and even depression. Most people immediately start taking 500-1000mg of Metformin twice a day. Clients report that for a couple of months they have diarrhea, gas, stomach pain, and flu like symptoms until their body adjusts. You do not have to live with these side effects if you closely follow the dietary regimen we recommend.

5 MEAL A DAY PLAN

It is important to eat five small meals a day to prevent blood sugar from spiking. Small meals can be eaten every few hours. We also suggest balancing the amount of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats in each meal or snack. For the first four meals of the day, we recommend a large amount of protein (the size of your palm), a carbohydrate source, and some vegetables. The evening meal can include a smaller amount of protein (harder to digest at night) to be enjoyed with at least one serving

of carbs and a cup or two of vegetables. Most people enjoy spacing out their meals during the day and are happy to not feel excessively full from heavy meals. Glucose levels will improve and higher levels of energy should be felt! This is due to the fact that the body is not going through roller coaster blood sugar spikes and dips .

We recommend high-flavor recipes available at skinnytaste.com. The instapot and crockpot recipes make meal prep quick and easy.

Some people cannot eat five meals a day due to their schedule. We have created a meal plan for them based on their individual situation. We are working with a physician that can only have lunch and takes no breaks during the day. She keeps some turkey jerky and nuts in her coat pocket for an instant snack. Her lunch has become the largest meal of her day and includes 6 oz. of protein, a cup of vegetables, and ½ cup of quinoa. She has found that this is helping her get through the day without being hungry. Previously she would come home late and ravenous. She ate her large meal at night along with several servings of dessert. Her blood sugars were out of control. Following our new plan, her A1C went down from 8 to 6 in a matter of four months, and she is no longer on Metformin.

EXERCISE

We strongly recommend including movement into your daily routine. Splitting up walking into 15 minute increments has a large impact on blood sugar. It is common to see a 50 point reduction of blood sugar after a 15-30 minute brisk walk; the best pill in town.

DESSERT

You can have dessert as long as it is eaten after a meal and not on an empty stomach. You must combine fruit or dessert with a protein or healthy fat source to help prevent blood sugar spikes.

This may sound too good to be true but it can be done if you choose to take the time to start taking charge of your health! Health is wealth and we can help you make it easy.

The good news is that most insurance companies pay for nutritional counseling for diabetes including ABMG, Aetna, Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Brown and Toland, CCHP, Cigna, Hill, Sutter, UHC and others. We are happy to call on your behalf and see what your plan offers. Please visit www.LindaRD.com to learn more about our services. Email us at lifeweight1@yahoo.com, or 925-855-0150 to tell us about your nutritional concerns and see how we can help you. Advertorial