editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
JANUARY 2017 • ALAMO TODAY • PAGE 1
JANUARY
2017
CANCER SUPPORT COMMUNITY: HEALING THE WHOLE PERSON By Jody Morgan
REMEMBERING JOHN BELLANDI
OWNER OF ALAMO HAY AND GRAIN By Sharon Burke
Alamo residents were saddened to learn of the passing mid-November of John Bellandi, aged 74, owner of Alamo’s iconic business, Alamo Hay and Grain. For almost 40 years, John endeared himself to generations of Alamo residents, ever-ready with a grin and a hug and expert animal advice. Situated in a quonset hut left over from World War II at the corner of Alamo’s two main streets, the hay and grain store with its iconic life size horse mounted on the shoe store in front is widely known as John Bellandi the symbol for Alamo throughout the county. John took over the business in 1979 and watched it evolve from a horse supply store where customers sometimes rode a horse down Danville Boulevard to the shop, to mainly a small animal and pet food supply store today, selling chicks, bunnies, ducklings, and everything needed to raise them. It was John’s idea to purchase a fiberglass horse in 1980 and place it on top of the shoe store in front of Alamo Hay and Grain. He was fond of decorating the horse for various holidays. Terri Delfosse, Alamo resident and long time owner of Richard’s Crafts in Alamo Plaza, remembers John coming into Richard’s every year just before Thanksgiving. “He would get a big red bow to decorate the horse for the Christmas season, and then stay for an hour and a half to visit and give me a hug.” She continued: “Truly, my heart aches with his loss. He was a good man and will be greatly missed.”
Modern medicine offers many cancer treatment options, but healing requires more than attacking the physical causes of the disease. Cancer Support Community San Francisco Bay Area located in Walnut Creek (CSC) offers free services to cancer patients, their caregivers and loved ones to address all the aspects of battling cancer that promote living better as well as longer. Backed by research confirming their efficacy, the extensive selection of programs includes educational presentations, healthy lifestyle classes, support groups and counseling. Everyone seeking support with cancer-related concerns is welcome to come for as long as they want. Founded in 1990 as Wellness Community San Francisco East Bay, CSC is a licensed affiliate of the international Cancer Community Support organization that includes over 200 locations worldwide. However, as an independent non-profit corporation, the Walnut Creek center is able to channel the contributions from generous donors that make their programs possible directly into free services for over 2,000 local individuals annually. CSC’s mission is: “To ensure that all people impacted by cancer are empowered by knowledge, strengthened by action, and sustained by community.” Volunteers staffing the reception desk are CSC members who understand immediately how stressed newcomers feel. Patty Koepke explains, “When the ‘C’ word pertains to you, you go into a deep black hole. The
SEE BELLANDI CONTINUED ON PAGE 22
Enjoying a CSC group hug reminds members they are part of a caring community. Photo courtesy of CSC.
The Valley Sheriff's Station in Alamo sponsored the 2nd Annual Chili Cook-off to benefit the Contra Costa Food Bank. Seven pots of chili competed for the coveted bragging rights as Alamo residents stopped by the station to taste and vote. First prize honors went to Deputy Dan Buergi, the Diablo resident deputy. Pictured above enjoying chili from left to right are Alamo resident Joe Rubay, Dep. Brian Carey (Round Hill Deputy), Lindy Lavender and Anne O of Sup. Karen Mitchoff's office, Dep. Brandon Robb and Dep. Tyler Hart. Give them a hand - the deputies raised over $300 to help feed the hungry for the holidays!
Local Postal Customer
PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID Permit 263 Alamo CA
ECRWSS
Cancer Support Community is a wonderful place for a person to come for some peace and understanding.” Koepke’s husband discovered CSC (then Wellness Community) when she was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2009. As a survivor, with five years of volunteering experience as well as firsthand knowledge of what it takes to walk through the door as a recently diagnosed cancer patient, she affirms, “I can always spot someone entering for the first time by the look Volume XVII - Number 1 of fear and confusion in their eyes. 3000F Danville Blvd. #117, Once that person realizes that the indiAlamo, CA 94507 vidual greeting them has faced cancer, Telephone (925) 405-NEWS, 405-6397 it seems to soften the blow. I will ask Fax (925) 406-0547 them to sit down with me and gradually Alisa Corstorphine ~ Publisher their anxiety level drops.” Editor@yourmonthlypaper.com Newcomers are encouraged to Sharon Burke ~ Writer attend orientation meetings held weekly The opinions expressed herein belong to the writers, and do necessarily reflect that of Alamo Today. Alamo Today on Mondays at 7pm and Fridays at 11am so not is not responsible for the content of any of the advertising
SEE SUPPORT CONT. ON PG.20
herein, nor does publication imply endorsement.
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
PAGE 2 • ALAMO TODAY • JANUARY 2017
●
● Stone Valley Center ●Alamo Commons ● Alamo Improvement Association ● Imagine Dental, Dr. Yeu Nguyen-Lenk ● Round Hill Country Club
Alamo Oak Tree Plaza, Brent & Terri Tucker
● Candace Andersen, County Supervisor
• Alamo World Travel • Alamo Smiles • East West Kung Fu • Morgan Bonanno Development • Peter Ostrosky • Andrea Scott • Steve Mick & Alicia Watson
Alamo Ace Hardware Alamo Rotary California Highway Patrol CCC Public Works Department CCC Sheriff’s Department Diablo Holdings, Ltd. Kiwanis Club of SRV Round Table Pizza SRV Fire Protection District Brent & Terri Tucker
Bill Randall, Santa Boy Scout Troop 216 Cheerleaders of Monte Vista HS Jennifer Quallick, Field Representative, Sup. Andersen’s Office Lt. Jason Haynes, CCC Sheriff ’s Office Kimberly French, SRV Fire Protection District Bob Hendry, Sr. Engr, CCC Public Works
Kevin Musante Chairperson, Terri Delfosse, Publicity Steve Mick, President, CFA John Lineweaver, Treasurer Andrew Elkin, Fundraising Alicia Watson, Entertainment Coordinator Ilene Ferguson-Mullery Terri Silva Russ Belleci
Denise & Chris Rousset
Bill White, Master of Ceremonies OUR WONDERFUL SCHOOL PERFORMERS and
In Memory & Honor of Bruce Marhenke
THEIR DEDICATED TEACHERS AND AIDES
ALL MONETARY DONATIONS RECEIVED BY 12/2/2016 ARE LISTED ABOVE. WE APOLOGIZE FOR ANY OMISSIONS.
ASSISTANCE LEAGUE OF DIABLO VALLEY SCHEDULES PROSPECTIVE MEMBER COFFEE
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED TO PROVIDE WARM CLOTHING TO THOSE WITHOUT SHELTER
Since 1967, Assistance League® of Diablo Valley, a nonprofit member volunteer organization, has improved lives in our community through hands-on programs. Its’ primary fundraiser, the Assistance League Way Side Inn Thrift Shop, is a well-known landmark located at 3521 Golden Gate Way in Lafayette. In response to the needs of the client base, Assistance League of Diablo Valley is reaching out to those of you who would enjoy clothing elementary schoolchildren for a more successful educational experience, performing educational puppet shows for schoolchildren, reading to second grade students, or helping in providing emergency clothing, food, and supplies to those in crisis. Two recently formed philanthropic programs concern implementing art in the classroom and staffing the Listen Program which helps identified students with verbal expression. Two other programs the group supports address the needs of our seniors. If you are interested in spending quality time and meeting energetic and upbeat people while helping those who are vulnerable, please phone 925-934-0901 to inquire about a Prospective Member Coffee scheduled for early January. For more information, please visit www.diablovalley. assistanceleague.org.
There is a wonderful opportunity to volunteer to make sure that homeless people in our county don’t suffer from the winter cold. White Pony Express (WPE), a nonprofit based in Pleasant Hill, has launched its Cold Weather Clothing Program (CWCP) for this winter. This program has already distributed 4,000 items of new or like-new clothing—coats, pants, shirts, socks, hats, gloves, scarves, underwear, and boots—given to people without shelter. Your help is needed to continue this vital program throughout the winter. The Cold Weather Clothing Program originated last winter when two homeless men, John Dulik and Todd Cambra, died from exposure in Walnut Creek. It was that sad situation that spurred our founder, Dr. Carol Weyland Conner, to ask that warm clothing be procured and provided to the homeless to enable them to endure cold winter nights. So now it is a WPE tradition. Come and make a difference! Everyday WPE provides between 5,000 and 6,000 pounds of food to those in need in Contra Costa County (seven days a week), as well as distributing about 12,000 articles of new and like-new clothing, toys, and books per month. Interested volunteers should contact Mandy Nakaya at 925-818-6361, email her at mandy@whiteponyexpress.org or visit www.whiteponyexpress. org/volunteer/. For more on WPE, go to www.whiteponyexpress.org.
ALAMO-DANVILLE NEWCOMERS WELCOME COFFEE
POKER NIGHT FUNDRAISER
Are you new to the area or a long time resident, newly retired, or an empty nester interested in making new friends and participating in various social activities? The Alamo–Danville Newcomers Club is a women’s organization whose purpose is to enrich the lives of all its members and their families in a social manner. Check out all the club has to offer by visiting www.alamodanvillenewcomers.com. The next new member coffee, which is free, will be held on January 24th from 10AM to noon. RSVP to alamodanvillenewcomers@gmail.com.
Join Meals on Wheels and Senior Outreach Services at their Texas Hold ‘Em Fundraiser. The evening will be held at the Danville Grange located at 732 Diablo Rd. in Danville on Saturday, February 25th from 6-11pm. The cost is $85 per person and includes buy-in, a full BBQ dinner from Andy’s BBQ, and one drink ticket. No poker experience is needed! The event is for ages 21 and up. To purchase tickets visit www.mowsos.org/event/poker or call 925239-2487. Meals on Wheels and Senior Outreach Services are non-profit 501(c) (3) organizations (IRS#68-0044205).
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
JANUARY 2017 • ALAMO TODAY • PAGE 3
New LISTINGS on the Market If you or someone you know is looking to buy or sell their home, call Brad today at 925-998-5151
ted s i L lle st Ju anvi D
n g i Days n i nd 5 Pe than ss Le
83 Leeds Court East - Danville
Asking price $850,000 Loaded with Upgrades! This magnificent 4 bed, 3.5 bath, 2227 Sq.ft. home has it all. Features 2 master suites, remodeled industrial kitchen with stainless steel appliances, updated bathrooms, dual pane windows and sliders, 2 community pools, newer roof, this house is the most updated house in the community! A must see! For more information go to: www.83LeedsCtE.com
706 Endsleigh Court - Danville
Asking Price
$1,450,000
5 bed (one downstairs), 3 Full bath (master bath completely updated), Built in 1994 by Castle Construction. Very private cul-de-sac location with incredible views of Mt. Diablo! Approx. 3044 sq.ft. on .24 acre gorgeous lot, 3 Car attached garage, Tile roof with stucco exterior, Very open floor plan with vaulted ceilings .
More and more are choosing...
BradGothberg.com
With over 30 years experience and the most extensive list of inventory in the San Ramon Valley
Brad Gothberg ¦ J.Rockcliff Realtors ¦ DRE# 00964026 ¦ 925-998-5151 ¦ BGothberg@Rockcliff.com
BOULEVARD VIEW
By Alisa Corstorphine, Editor
It’s been a long time coming but worth the wait. I am excited to share the freshened-up look of our papers with you. With a new logo, a new website, new mastheads, and updated fonts and layout, I hope you find things pop a bit more and draw you into the content provided by our wonderful advertisers, writers, and contributors. I didn’t know it at the time, but my journey with running and publishing a newspaper began in high school. I was a photo editor for the multi award-winning Cupertino, California, Homestead High School Epitaph. The Epitaph paper was something to be a proud part of. During his tenure, longtime teacher and adviser Nick Ferentinos helped guide the staff to winning many awards including eight “Gold Crowns” from the early 1980s to the mid-1990s from the Columbia Scholastic Press Association (CSPA). During that same period, the paper received eight Pacemaker Awards from the National Scholastic Press Association. As late as 1994, those were the most prominent national awards ever given to a high school paper. While some former Epitaph staff moved on to careers with The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and at least one as a White House correspondent for the Associated Press, I didn’t have the same goals as they. I went to school and graduated with a business degree and planned to do something with that...I just didn’t know it would be owning and producing my own publications! Over a decade ago, an opportunity came to me to take over the reins of Alamo Today. I jumped in and so this journey began. My desktop publishing skills were rusty but came back quickly. The Union City based printer that was already providing printing services for Alamo Today was actually the same press our Epitaph staff worked with from my high school days! A couple years after taking the helm of the Alamo paper, I started two sub-
sequent papers: Danville Today News and Lafayette Today. The foundation of each of the papers is to provide our communities with hyperlocal, positive stories about people in the community: your neighbors, classmates, workmates, and teammates... as well as to spotlight the hard work of our local non-profits. Our advertorialists bring you news and expertise in their small business specialties, and our advertisers announce their presence, their sales, and their events. Through our advertisers and advertorialists, this paper gets produced, printed, and delivered to you. Please take the opportunity to patronize their businesses and to let them know you see their ads and articles. For quite awhile I have realized an update of the papers and website was needed. I was fortunate to be able to enlist the help of a hyperlocal resource, a neighbor, and someone I watched grow up. With a small window of time between her college graduation and her first career job I enlisted Sarah Herzog (www.sherzogdesign.com) to help me start anew. What started out as my request for a “simple” website refresh became a full rebranding. And I couldn’t be more grateful. Sarah’s insight and ideas helped me get this task off my to-do list and come to fruition, and I am delighted to bring this to you. I receive many comments that this is a paper that is looked forward to each month and read cover-to-cover. In this digital day and age people tell me they still like the tactile feeling and the focus of a newspaper. It gives them a chance to disconnect from the bits and bytes and bright screens. I hope you feel that way, too. If not, please let me know what you’d like to read more of or what other changes you’d like to see. I’d love to hear from you. Reach me at editor@yourmonthlypaper.com. Happy New Year!
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
PAGE 4 • ALAMO TODAY • JANUARY 2017
Celebrate the New Year with our 2017 Cooking Classes
January 26th • 5pm – 7pm
Re-Energize the Body Healthy Soups & Salads with Patt Larkin $55/per person Call today to reserve your seat!
Alamo Ace Hardware |3211 Danville Blvd., Alamo | 925-837-2420 www.AlamoHardware.com
ALAMO SCHOOL FIELD MORATORIUM
After a busy season of baseball, soccer and other field sports, it is the time of year to let sports fields rest. The Alamo Elementary School Field will be closed for turf maintenance December 1 through February 28, 2017. Field moratoriums are necessary b in order to give maintenance crews the opportunity to conduct routine maintenance on the fields by aerating, re-seeding, and giving the turf time to rest, heal, and grow in preparation for 2017 spring activities. For more information, contact Victoria Skerritt at Contra Costa County Public Works at (925) 313-2272 or e-mail victoria.skerritt@pw.cccounty.us.
FREE TAX PREPARATION
The San Ramon Valley Genealogical Society invites you to attend the January 17 meeting beginning at 10AM at the Danville Family History Center, located at 2949 Stone Valley Road, Alamo. The program will be about “Focused Research,” using a research plan by Lisa Gorrell. For more information, visit www.srvgensoc.org.
FRIENDS OF THE DANVILLE LIBRARY BOOK SALE
The Friends of the Danville Library (FODL) are hosting an upcoming book sale. Stop by and stock up on some new reading material! On Friday and Saturday all hardcover books, books on tape, and DVDs are $2 and paperback books and CDs are $1. On Sunday there will be a $5 bag sale. The sale takes place Friday, January 27 - FODL Members Preview am 9 - 10am, Public hours 10am - 5pm; Saturday, January 28 - Public hours 10am - 4pm; and Sunday, January 29 - Public hours 12:05pm - 3:45pm.
SONS IN RETIREMENT SAN RAMON VALLEY
Are you looking for things to do in your retirement? Consider joining Sons in Retirement San Ramon Valley Branch 128. The group has monthly luncheons with interesting speakers and good fellowship. Additionally, members have lots of fun participating in a variety of activities such as golf, tennis, bowling, bocce ball, movies, bridge, reading, computers, and much more. Many other activities such as travel, dine outs, excursions, baseball games, and holiday parties include spouses, friends, and guests. The group’s next luncheon will be held on Wednesday, January 18 at 11AM. The guest speaker will be Alex Coate, General Manager of EBMUD. A fee of $25 includes luncheon, guest speaker, and a great opportunity to socialize with at least 150 other retirees from the San Ramon Valley. To reserve a space, please email info@SIR128.com by January 12th. The new location for meetings is The Bridges Golf Club which is located at 9000 S. Gale Ridge Rd in San Ramon. For more information about this retirement branch and activities, please visit www.SIR128.com.
HOST FAMILIES SOUGHT FOR TWO WEEK STAY BY VISITING FRENCH STUDENTS
For the twelfth consecutive year, students from a large high school in the south of France are coming to the Bay Area. Every visit by the students has been better than the last. The students will arrive on April 1st and depart April 16th. The teens stay with local families and have a full itinerary of activities during the days and only require your attention in the evenings and weekend. The visit is an ideal opportunity to experience another culture and hopefully consider visiting France in return. Anyone interested in hosting a student (or students!) is welcome to participate. For more information or to find out about past year’s programs, please contact Martine Causse (teacher in charge of the group), at dachary.martine@orange.fr. There are many happy local host families ready to discuss any questions with you (including the editor of this paper!). The local contact is Danville parent Kevin Dimler, who can be reached at kevindimler@gmail.com or (925)718-5052.
$$$
$$$ $10.00 Dollar Coupon!
1 coupon per family. Not valid on previous purchases, other coupons and/or promotions. No cash substitutes. May not be used on payment of account. *Excludes Pandora, Brighton & Alex and Ani Expires January 31, 2017
Walnut Creek, Broadway Plaza
Danville, The Livery Shopping Center
Present this coupon at point of purchase for $10.00 off your one-time purchase of $50.00 or more storewide*
Free tax preparation for the 2017 tax season is available starting in February 2017 from AARP’s Tax-Aide and United Way’s Earn It, Keep It, Save It (EKS) programs. All tax preparers are trained and certified by the IRS. While both programs serve taxpayers of any age, Tax-Aide does not have an income limit in whom they can serve, but EKS can only serve individuals whose incomes do not exceed $50,000. Beginning January 9, 2017, for information or to make an appointment for the Tax-Aide sites serving the San Ramon and Danville areas, please call (925) 973-3250 for the San Ramon - San Ramon Senior Center site or (925) 480-7202 for the Danville – Veterans Memorial Bldg of SRV site. For general information and other site locations, call (925) 726-3199. For information on EKS sites, call 2-1-1 or visit www.earnitkeepitsaveit.org. To complete your tax return, Tax-Aide will need you to bring to the appointment your: • Social Security Card or ITIN letter for all individuals to be listed on the return • Photo ID for the taxpayer and spouse • Copies of all W-2s • 1098s and 1099s • Other income and deductions • Your 2015 Tax Return • Proof of medical insurance if you are not on Medicare.
SAN RAMON VALLEY GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
JANUARY 2017 • ALAMO TODAY • PAGE 5
We all burn for different things—time with our children, red velvet cupcakes, the fierce afterburn of an OTF workout, that tight new dress. The things that motivate us, that make the burn worth it, are what keep us coming back for more, day after day, week after week. At Orangetheory Fitness, you’ll experience a scientifically designed 1-hour workout that keeps burning calories for up to 36 hours. The result is the Orange Effect — visible toning, increased energy, and more time to enjoy all the things you burn for in life.
SAN RAMON VALLEY REPUBLICAN WOMEN FEDERATED PRESENT LYNNE LEACH
Lynne Leach will speak at the Tuesday, January 24 meeting of the San Ramon Valley Republican Women Federated. Lynne is well-known to Valley residents as the first woman ever elected to represent the combined Alameda/Contra Costa Counties 15th Assembly District in 1996. She was reelected in 1998 and 2000 by commanding margins and term limited in 2002. She made her mark in the Legislature as a leader, and after her terms were ended, she launched her company, Lynne Leach Presents, offering informative, inspirational speeches and practical, common sense programs on sales, customer service, communications and leadership to the business and political communities. Lynne Leach Lynne will be speaking on the aftermath of the Presidential election and what to expect in the next four years. Join us at Crow Canyon Country Club on Tuesday, January 24 at 11:30AM for a social half hour and noon for lunch and the program. Reservations can be made at www.srvrwf.org or by calling (925) 820-0774.
DANVILLE LIONS CLUB
The Danville Lions Club meets for dinner at the Brass Door Restaurant in San Ramon at 7PM on the first Wednesday of every month. Contact Truman Howard at (925)787-2565 or truman.howard@gmail.com for reservations. Visitors and new members are welcome. For more information, visit our website at www.danvillelionsclub.org.
AAUW TALK: THE FOSTER CARE SYSTEM
Please join with the American Association of University Women (AAUW) Danville-Alamo-Walnut Creek Branch to learn about The Foster Care System: What Works, What Doesn’t, and How You Can Make a Difference on Saturday, January 28th from 10am - noon. The talk will be held at the Danville Town Meeting Hall located at 201 Front St. in Danville. The featured speaker for this riveting Foster Care program will be Paulina Astafuroff. Paulina will share her personal story about growing up in the foster care system, transitioning out of the system, and finding her way to UC Berkeley where she is currently enrolled. Paulina now supports other foster care youth as a counselor, academic advocate, and workshop leader. Paulina will also talk about how the Paulina Astafuroff foster care system works and what challenges girls in particular face during and after their foster care experience. There is no charge for this program but preregistration is required. Light refreshments will be served. RSVP to Liz at daw.aauw@gmail.com.
ROTARY CLUB OF SAN RAMON VALLEY
The Rotary Club of San Ramon Valley meets for dinner every Wednesday night at the Blackhawk Country Club, located at 599 Blackhawk Club Drive in Danville. Networking and social time starts at 6pm, and the meeting runs from 7pm until 8:30pm. Dinner and cocktails are served, and the weekly program features interesting guest speakers. Guests attend free of charge and are always welcome! For more information, call Laura Montalvo at (925) 437-2445 or e-mail winechickathome@ gmail.com. You can also visit our website at www.sanramonvalleyrotary.com.
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
PAGE 6 • ALAMO TODAY • JANUARY 2017
EUGENE O’NEILL FOUNDATION PLAYWRIGHTS’ THEATER EVENT
The Eugene O’Neill Foundation in Danville begins the new year with a Playwrights’ Theater presentation of Eugene O’Neill’s play, Dynamo. The staged reading is planned for Saturday, January 7 at 8PM and Sunday, January 8 at 2PM at the Museum of the San Ramon Valley, 205 Railroad Avenue in downtown Danville. Tickets for the presentation are available online at www.eugeneoneill.org or by phone at (925) 820-1818. When thinking about the plays of Eugene O’Neill, the only American playwright to be awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature, it is usually his most popular plays that come to mind: A Long Days Journey into Night, The Iceman Cometh, or A Touch of the Poet. All these later works by the playwright were written while he and his wife Carlotta lived at Tao House in the Danville hills from 1937-1944. “Many of O’Neill’s earlier plays deserve attention because they help us to see how the writer grew and made changes to American drama that literally changed theater in America,” says Eric Fraisher Hayes, manager of artistic programs for the O’Neill Foundation. “Dynamo is an excellent follow up to The Emperor Jones, which the Eugene O’Neill Foundation produced in September at the O’Neill National Historic Site in Danville. In Dynamo, O’Neill utilizes multiple expressionistic devises to help the audience delve deeper into the truths of the characters,” says director Hayes. Dynamo focuses on Ruben Light who feels betrayed by his religion and his family. He searches to make sense of the world and strikes upon the belief that electricity is really the god that governs his life. Light sees the awesome power of the Dynamo as a replacement for all that he has lost in life. “O’Neill’s dramatic tale of a desperately seeking young man is a powerful, and seldom produced gem. Dynamo is part ‘Days of Our Lives,’ part ‘Hollywood Squares,’ and part Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho,” says director Hayes. Dynamo was first produced in 1929 at the Provincetown Playhouse in Greenwich Village. It came at a time when Eugene O’Neill had already gained notable recognition. By 1929, he had already received three Pulitzer Prizes for his early works -- Beyond the Horizon (1920), Anna Christie (1922), and Strange Interlude (1928). Dynamo is a component of the annual Playwrights’ Theater series by the Eugene O’Neill Foundation, with staged readings in January and May of O’Neill’s early plays, and works by playwrights influenced by O’Neill. The Eugene O’Neill Foundation is a not-for-profit organization that works closely with the National Park Service in coordinating educational, community, and performance programs at the Eugene O’Neill National Historic Site in Danville and at locations in downtown Danville. Information on the programs of the Foundation is available at www.eugeneoneill.org.
VOLUNTEER AT MT. DIABLO STATE PARK
There are several exciting volunteer opportunities at Mt. Diablo State Park over the upcoming months. Projects needing assistance are: • Maintaining and improving hiking trails throughout the park • Control of invasive plants, such as yellow star thistle • Repairing and repainting park facilities, such as fences, picnic tables, and outhouses Service projects out in nature tend be excellent team-building activities, and they can support feelings of cooperation and respect among school groups, community organizations, and co-workers. Projects can accommodate a range of participant ages and group sizes, and a work day for weekends or week days can be planned. Volunteer Field Projects Coordinator can work with you and your organization to design a project that will make a significant contribution to our beautiful park, and that will be a fun and memorable experience for you and your organization. For answers to questions and for more information, contact Silas Ellison at 925-837-6122, 925-837-6819, by cell phone at 617-335-6833, or by email at silas.ellison@parks.ca.gov.
BRINGING BACK THE NATIVES GARDEN TOUR
Now is the perfect time to plan a garden transformation, shop for plants, and plant your water-conserving, pesticide-free California native plant garden. To help you on the way, you might be interested in the following.
UPCOMING WORKSHOPS
“Gardening with Nature in Mind” will be offered on Saturday, January 28, and “California native plant propagation: How to create native plants from seeds, cuttings, and divisions” will run on February 4 and 25. These workshops will fill. For more information or to register, visit http://www.bringingbackthenatives.net/winter-2016-2017-workshops.
NEW GARDENS ON THE UPCOMING TOUR
The gardens that will be showcased on the Sunday, May 7 Bringing Back the Natives Garden Tour are going up on the Tour’s website. This year there will be 25 new gardens. Check them out at www.bringingbackthenatives. net/view-gardens. Advertise with the Tour! If you are interested in running an ad in the garden guide, e-mail Kathy@KathyKramerConsulting.net now to reserve a space. Sponsors are being sought to support the 2017 Tour. Learn more by visiting www.bringingbackthenatives.net if your company would be interested in becoming a Tour sponsor.
STARS TO THE RESCUE XXVI
Get your tickets for Stars to the Rescue XXVI featuring Kevin Nealon and Huey Lewis on Saturday, January 7th at 7pm at the Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek. Join Tony La Russa and Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF) along with other performers including Taylor Brown, Bernie Williams and Teammates, BOSTYX, and more. Proceeds from the event allow ARF to save dogs and cats who have run out of time at public shelters and to help bring people and animals together. Get tickets at https://lesherartscenter.showare.com/eventperformances. asp?evt=710 or at (925) 943-SHOW!
BLACKHAWK REPUBLICAN WOMEN PRESENT DEBORA ALLEN
The Blackhawk Republican women will be presenting Debora Allen; Director, BART Board, District 1 Chair of the Contra Costa Republican Central Committee; speaking on Contra Costa Republicans’ New Opportunities for Relevance at the group’s January 12th meeting. Receiving nearly 100,000 votes in a 30-point landslide victory against a 12-year Democratic incumbent last month, Debora Allen won a seat representing a portion of Contra Costa County on the Bay Area Rapid Transit Board of Directors. Debora has served on the Contra Costa Republican Central Committee for the last Debora Allen two years and has volunteered on political campaigns for the last 15 years. She was elected as Chair last July. Professionally, Debora has spent the last 25 years in financial management roles such as CPA, CFO, tax manager, auditor, consultant, and business owner. Debora is known as a hard-working, dedicated change agent who takes on the most challenging problems and emerges with thoughtful, strategic solutions. Come hear from this GOP County Chair about the opportunity that is available to regain relevance in the county and rebuild the Republican brand. The event will take place at the Blackhawk Country Club, Grille Room. Everyone is welcome. No denim is allowed per Club policy. Check-in and a social with hors d’oeuvres and no-host bar will begin at 5:30PM, and the speaker presentation will begin at 6PM. The cost is $25. Please make your reservations by e-mailing or calling Jane Parish at janeparish@sbcglobal.net or (925) 216-6663, then mailing a check (which needs to arrive by Monday, January 9th) made payable to “Blackhawk Republican Women” to her at 366 Jacaranda Drive, Danville 94506-2125.
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
JANUARY 2017 • ALAMO TODAY • PAGE 7
SUPERVISORIAL DISTRICT 2 CITIZEN ADVISORY BOARD OPENINGS
Are you interested in participating in government? Supervisor Candace Andersen is seeking volunteers for County Advisory Boards. Andersen is looking for interested, motivated residents to serve on two Contra Costa County citizen advisory boards. These voluntary boards usually meet monthly and advise the Board of Supervisors on a variety of issues. They provide a key communication link between the community and county government. District Two includes Canyon, Alamo, Danville, Lafayette, Moraga, Orinda, Rossmoor, San Ramon, Saranap, and Walnut Creek west of Main Street. Applications are currently being accepted from residents of District 2 for seats on the following boards. • Alamo Municipal Advisory Council (Alamo Resident) – One Regular Seat and one Alternate Seat • County Service Area P-2 Alamo Police Services Advisory Committee (Alamo Resident) - Advises on the needs of the Alamo community for extended police services. Must be a resident of Alamo. For more information about each board, go to the advisory body page of the Contra Costa County website at http://contra.napanet.net/maddybook/. For an application and more information on serving on an advisory body, please go to www.cccounty.us/index.aspx?NID=3418.
THE EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT WANTS YOU!
The East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD) includes 65 regional parks in its two-county jurisdiction, covering more than 113,000 miles and 1,200 miles of trail. Helping to oversee and manage this vast recreational territory are nearly 200 volunteers from all over the Bay Area. EBRPD offers a volunteer position for nearly every interest. Consider work in the Botanic Garden, or help with a Coastal Clean-up Day. Become a Regional Parks ambassador, or participate in the companion dog patrol. Help with trail maintenance, or walk the trails as part of the safety patrol. Whether you may seek a special one-time volunteer job or ongoing year-round programs, EBRPD would love to hear from you. Positions are offered for all ages and can be tailored for school groups, students, corporate groups, and Scouting and service clubs. They also offer company team-building service projects. Those seeking to help restore parklands to their original state can help replace non-native plants with natives, or work with staff to restore vital habitats. EBRPD volunteers help lead tours, take photos, distribute flyers, serve as hosts and greeters, and help with recycling activities. Volunteering with EBRPD can provide new skills, new friends, a greater knowledge of natural and cultural resources, and the personal satisfaction of making a difference in the community. For information, email Volunteers@EBParks.org, or visit www. ebparks.org/about/getinvolved/volunteer. (Some events require registration and some programs require training, fingerprinting, background checks, or TB testing.) 8
Lost Dog!
$50 REWARD
If you find her and your name is drawn!
Alamo Zoe is Missing
Alamo Zoe has become lost in this paper... Search through Alamo Today and see if you can find her! She is very small, so you will have to look hard if you want to find her.
To be eligible send a letter telling us where you found her, along with your name and address, to: Lost Dog! ~ Alamo Today 3000F Danville Blvd #117 • Alamo, CA 94507
Peter Saltzman is our winner!
TREATS FOR THE TROOPS
Happy New Year to all supporters of Treats for the Troops! Service group Delta Nu Psi will again be collecting “gourmet junk food” to send our servicemen and women in Afghanistan. Delta Nu Psi will continue sending packages as long as American military members are in the War Zone. Much of the food sent is not normally available to the troops. With your help Delta Nu Psi has sent 35,659 pounds of food and are now sending eight large boxes each month. Collections will be held at CVS in Alamo on Friday, January 6 and at Lunardi’s in Danville on Friday, January 13. Both collections will take place from 12:30PM to 2:30PM. Please come to either store, and shop for American service personal. For more information, visit www.deltanupsi.org. Money for postage is also always appreciated. Please help Delta Nu Psi provide American men and women in the War Zone with a touch of home.
CALIFORNIA WRITERS CLUB
Catharine Bramkamp will present “Finding the True Wizard: Social Media Strategies for Authors” at the next meeting of the Mt. Diablo Branch of the California Writers Club (CWC) on Saturday, January 14th at Zio Fraedo’s Restaurant, located at 611 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill. Catharine will discuss how to create a 30-second book promotion/description, how to think differently about social media and your book, and what you can and cannot use as your platform. As a long-time member of Redwood Writers, Catharine has published 12 novels (including the Future Girls series), three books on writing, many poems, and a poetry chapbook. Catharine is also the editor for the Redwood Writers anthology and works for a wine company as their storytelling officer. Sign-in is at 11:15am. The luncheon will take place from noon until 12:45pm, and the speaker will talk from 1-2pm. Registration is $25 for CWC members and $30 for guests. Reservations are required and must be received no later than noon on Wednesday, January 11th. Contact Robin Gigoux at cwcrobin.gigoux@ yahoo.com or by phone at (925) 933-9670. Expect confirmation only if you e-mail your reservation. For PayPal, click ‘Buy Now’ on the Mt. Diablo website http://cwcmtdiablowriters.wordpress.comnext-program. For Paypal, please add a $2 transaction fee. The California Writers Club Mt. Diablo Branch web address is http:// cwcmtdiablowriters.wordpress.com.
2017 AAUW HOLIDAY HOME TOUR
Would you like to share your home on next year’s Holiday Home Tour? The Danville-Alamo-Walnut Creek Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) is looking for homes for their 2017 Holiday Home Tour on Friday, December 8 and Saturday, December 9, 2017. If you are interested in sharing your home decorated in its holiday finest or have a friend who would be interested, e-mail aauwhht@gmail.com as soon as possible. Proceeds from this tour provide summer camperships for 12 middle school girls to STEM week at Sonoma State University and scholarships to women in the Danville-Alamo-Walnut Creek area.
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
PAGE 8 • ALAMO TODAY • JANUARY 2017
REFLECTIONS ON MY YEAR AS CHAIR OF THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
By Supervisor Candace Andersen Contra Costa County, District 2
It has been a very busy year as I finish serving as the Chair of the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors and have also just completed my first four-year term in office. I truly enjoy my public service and am looking forward to serving in this next term. As the Board of Supervisors starts the new year, I would like to congratulate and welcome new District III Supervisor Diane Burgis who, along with East Contra Costa County, represents the communities of Blackhawk, Diablo, and the unincorporated Danville community. I want to thank Mary Nejedly Piepho for her 12 years of distinguished service. Congratulations also to colleague Federal Glover on his re-election as the District IV Supervisor and as incoming Board Chair. The County implemented some new programs and updated others this past year. We also hired some very talented and accomplished people to replace exiting staff or fill new roles. In December, we passed a pharmaceutical disposal ordinance which will require drug manufacturers to create a stewardship program for the collection and disposal of unwanted pharmaceutical drugs. Most of our local police departments are currently already collecting unwanted prescription drugs, and this ordinance will expand options for disposing of these unwanted pharmaceuticals. We created a Sustainability Coordinator Position, hiring Jody London to coordinate the development and integration of the County’s sustainability activities, including the newly implemented PACE Program, which enables property owners to finance energy-efficient and water-saving home upgrades to be repaid through their property tax bill rather than through conventional financing. We have also just established a Sustainability Commission which will advise the Board of Supervisors on issues related to our Climate Action Plan and look at equity and fairness in our disadvantaged communities. We formed a County/Cities coalition and commissioned a jointly funded technical study of options for bringing Community Choice Energy aggregation to Contra Costa County. Community Choice Energy allows local governments to pool the electricity demands of their communities in order to purchase power with higher renewable content, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and reinvest in local energy infrastructure. In the interest of public protection, we promoted Todd Billeci to County Probation Officer, replacing Phil Kader who retired. The environmental review was finalized for the West County Detention Facility, laying the groundwork for future expansion of our existing jail rehabilitation facility, where there can be a great emphasis on assisting those inmates with mental illness. We created the Racial Justice Task Force to advise the Board on issues of disproportionate contact of minority residents with the criminal justice system. We also created the Office of Reentry & Justice as a pilot project of the County Administrator’s Office to assist with efforts to prevent recidivism and help people break from patterns of crime. In the area of Human Resources and Labor Relations, we settled labor contracts with all of our Bargaining Units. We welcomed Jeff Bailey as our new Labor Relations Manager and Dianne Dinsmore as Director of Human Resources. A new Health, Housing, and Homeless Services division was added to Contra Costa Health Services. This new division will integrate housing and homeless services across our health system, and coordinate health and homeless services across county government and into the community. Our Public Works Department was once again recognized for excellence by their peers with an award from the Northern California Chapter of the American Public Works Association. They also received a 2016 Clean Air Champion Award for superior achievement in the use of cleaner fuels and fuel-efficient vehicles. The Purchasing Division earned the National Procurement Institute’s “Achievement of Excellence in Public Procurement” award. Our Airports Division negotiated Airline service between Buchanan Field and Burbank/Las Vegas by JetSuiteX. The service kicked off from Buchanan Field to Burbank round-trip three times daily in April 2016 with Las Vegas added shortly thereafter, and future flights and additional routes are planned. This offers a time-saving gateway for East Bay residents looking for a quick weekend trip. We had some achievements this year toward our goal of fiscal responsibility. We maintained our AAA Bond Rating from Standard & Poor’s, and received an upgrade on Lease Bonds from Moody’s (from A1 to Aa3) with both agencies commenting on the fact that Contra Costa County was “Fundamentally sound and had a stable outlook for the future.” The Budget was structurally balanced for the 6th year in a row, built on the assumption of a 6% increase in assessed valuations; actual assessed value countywide was 6.01%. Other Post-Employment Benefits Unfunded Liability was reduced to $764.3 million as of the January 01, 2016, valuation (it was $2.6 billion in 2006), and current Other Post-Employment Benefits Trust Assets exceed $200 million. Our highly acclaimed library system continued to expand and improve library services and facilities countywide. We hired Melinda Cervantes as our new County Librarian. She was previously our Deputy Librarian before moving to In Stone Valley Shopping Center Santa Clara and then to Arizona. The San Ramon Library remodel continued throughout the year with a planned reopening in March of 2017. It’s been a great year with so much accomplished. I’m looking forward to working with my colleagues, old and new, in 2017 as we serve our residents of Contra Costa County! Should you have any questions or other County issues you wish to discuss, Enjoy Our Patio Dining please don’t hesitate to contact me. As your County Supervisor, I’m here to serve you. I can be reached at (925) 957-8860 or Candace.Andersen@bos. Monday - Saturday: Lunch and Dinner cccounty.us. Sunday: Dinner only We Offer a Full Bar and Lounge 3168 Danville Blvd, Alamo Margaritas are a House Specialty
Fine Mexican Dining
743-8997
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
JANUARY 2017 • ALAMO TODAY • PAGE 9
VILLAGE THEATRE ART GALLERY HOSTS UNCOMMON THREAD
Start the new year off with an artistic flair as the talents of the Creative Fiber Artists Quilting Group will be on display in a new exhibition at the Village Theatre & Art Gallery. The Town of Danville presents Uncommon Thread, an art exhibition opening Thursday, January 19 at the Village Theatre & Art Gallery, 233 Front Street. Uncommon Thread is an exhibition featuring unique art quilts created by a local quilting group, The Creative Fiber Artists. The exhibition is guest curated by local resident, Margaret Winter. Viewers to this exhibit are invited to share a new view on quilts. The work in this show depicts landscapes and still-lifes and quirky interpretations of everyday things. These are not traditional quilts in that they do not follow old-fashioned quilting patterns, and they incorporate mixed media, setting them apart from the typical American quilt. An Opening Reception for the Uncommon Thread exhibition is scheduled for Thursday, January 19 from 6PM to 8PM. This is a family friendly event that will delight people of all ages. Complimentary refreshments will be served at the opening reception, For those who miss the Opening Reception, the exhibition runs through February 18. The Village Theatre and Art Gallery is open to visitors Wednesday to Friday 12PM to 5PM, Saturday 11AM to 3PM, and Monday and Tuesday by appointment only. The Art Gallery is closed on Sundays. Admission is free. For more information, contact Visual Arts Coordinator Marija Nelson Bleier at (925) 314-3460 or mbleier@danville.ca.gov.
VALENTINE’S ALOE TOURS AND “SWEETS WITH YOUR SWEETIE”
The Ruth Bancroft Garden’s Aloe Day Tours, an all-day event focused specifically on the Garden’s dramatic aloe collection, will be held on Saturday, February 11, 10AM - 3PM. The Garden has an unparalleled collection of aloes, including hybrids not found anywhere else in the world. These winter bloomers put on a stunning show with colorful, dramatic flower stalks. You and your sweetie will enjoy a guided tour of the Garden led by curator Brian Kemble, world-renowned aloe expert, then enjoy hot beverages or a mimosa and plate of sweet treats in the Garden’s covered shade house. Be sure to take home the succulent planter on your table as a remembrance of your visit. • Tours with Brian start at 10AM and 12PM and last 60 - 90 minutes followed by your Sweets seating. • Space is limited for this special event, so pre-registration is required. Sign-up online, or members call the office to make your reservation. The event will be held rain or shine. Fee is $50/couple for members and $65/couple for non-members. The Garden is also open for regular admission visits with self-guided Aloe tours and docent led garden tours at 11AM and 1PM. • Special selection of aloes will be available in the retail nursery • Dish gardens, aloe books, and other garden inspired gifts for your Valentine will be available Regular admission rates are$10/adults; $8/students and seniors 65+; and free for RBG members, children under 12, and members of participating AHS reciprocal gardens. The Ruth Bancroft Garden is located at 1552 Bancroft Road, Walnut Creek. Parking is available at the office entrance. For more information, please visit The Ruth Bancroft Garden or call (925) 944-9352.
GOLD COAST CHAMBER PLAYERS INTERMEZZO
NEW YEAR
• CARPET NEW FLOORS! • HARDWOOD • CARPET RUGS • HARDWOOD CUSTOM RUGS • RUGS LINOLEUM • LINOLEUM TILE Family Owned Business Since 1989 3344 Mt. Diablo Blvd. Lafayette, CA 925.284.4440
www.LamorindaFloors.com License# 708486
Intermezzo, the third of the Gold Coast Chamber Players five concerts this season, takes place on Saturday, January 28 at 7:30PM at the Lafayette Library Community Hall, 3491 Mt. Diablo Blvd in Lafayette. The program offers a poetic mix of music with at least one foot in the romantic era, which glorified the sensual, the emotive, and the sentimental. It is unusual to have a symphonic excerpt on a chamber music program, but Arnon Zimra’s arrangement of an excerpt from Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No. 4 proves to be remarkably suited for the trio for voice, clarinet, and piano. Symphonic in scale is Charles Loeffler’s Four Poems for mezzo-soprano, viola, and piano and displays Loeffler’s love of dense harmonies and unusual poetic and harmonic colors. Frank Bridge writes for the same combination of instruments, but his set of songs focus on mourning and loss of different types. Finishing the program is the Clarinet Sonata by Poulenc which is in turn wistful and rambunctious. The Gold Coast Chamber Players are known for their engaging and vibrant performances. Audiences have been responding with such enthusiasm that tickets are in great demand. Ticket price includes complimentary champagne, a pre-concert talk at 7PM, and a reception with the musicians following the performance. Tickets are available at www.gcplayers.org and by phone at (925) 283-3728. Seating is limited, so please reserve early.
EXCHANGE CLUB OF SRV
The Exchange Club of San Ramon Valley meets for lunch the second Wednesday of every month in downtown Danville. Sign-in and social time begins at 11:30AM. The meeting starts promptly at noon and ends promptly at 1PM. The program features guest speakers and a business networking speaker. For more information, call Karen Stepper at (925) 275-2412, email coachstepper@yahoo. com, or visit www.srvexchangeclub.org.
BLACKHAWK “FIRST SUNDAY” CARS & COFFEE
Blackhawk Automotive Museum hosts a monthly Cars & Coffee event year round for all car enthusiasts. Held on the “First Sunday” of each month, starting at 8AM and going to 10AM, the Museum welcomes all classic, collector, and special interest car owners and enthusiasts. On Cars & Coffee Sundays, the Museum opens an hour earlier, at 9AM, and participating car owners will receive complimentary Museum admission tickets. The Museum is located at 3700 Blackhawk Plaza Circle in Danville. For more information, visit www.blackhawkmuseum.org/carsncoffee.html, call (925) 736-2280, or email museum@blackhawkmuseum.org.
PAGE 10 • ALAMO TODAY • JANUARY 2017
ALAMO ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
By Stan Hitomi, Principal
It is fair to say that 2016 was a remarkable year at Alamo School. As with each passing year we can look back and marvel at both the change we have seen and the many traditions that we have been able to maintain. Perhaps the biggest change in 2016 was a new academic calendar for 2016-17 for the San Ramon Valley Unified School District. A change in the school calendar is always a very BIG DEAL. The intersection between school and “life” can be very complicated, and many of us have spent the past five months getting used to the early start of school and anticipate as big a transition getting used to the idea of ending school in May (June 1st is the last day of school)! The year 2016 also introduced a new State award for schools, the California Gold Ribbon School Award. Alamo School was fortunate to be recognized as a Gold Ribbon School, along with a record number of other schools in the SRVUSD. Alamo School was also recognized in 2016 for receiving the highest achievement level (98%) in the SRVUSD on the state science test. In one of the most memorable moments of 2016, we said goodbye a legendary teacher, Mrs. Benit. Sue Benit taught in the SRVUSD for over 40 years, with 31 of those years at Alamo School. Last April, Sue Benit received the San Ramon Valley Education Association’s “Lifetime Achievement Award.” Mrs. Benit, we miss you! Innovation played a major role for Alamo School in 2016. With the help of Shari Bergum-Hayes, we were able to turn our computer lab into a Maker Space. With Shari’s support we were able to provide every fifth grader at Alamo School with experience in 3D design and 3D printing. In 2016-2017 the Maker Space program has been expanded to include robots in second grade and the unveiling of a new laser cutter/printer – courtesy of the Alamo School Ed Fund. Innovation at Alamo School in 2016 extended into our music program, where our students were honored with a visit from Jim Papoulis - composer from New York. Nancy Raaum (vocal music director) has taken the momentum from his visit to write two grants to bring Jim back from New York, as well an additional music program with a focus on jazz. In terms of traditions, we were fortunate to be able to continue many of our beloved events and activities, including the Halloween Parade, Talent Show, Red Ribbon Week, Book Fair, Family Reading Night, and Field Day. Let’s not forget about our long-time tradition, the Alamo School Hoedown, which made a big transition from a Sunday afternoon event to Friday night in 2016. Although the time was different, our students were quick to find their favorites, including the Cake Walk, Dunk Tank, and Wheel of Fortune. After celebrating Alamo School’s 50th Anniversary in 2015, we entered 2016 looking forward to the start of the “Next 50 Years.” We were not disappointed. Each year, and what we achieve, is a testament to the talent and dedication of our students, staff, and their families. Judging from our start in 2016, the next 50 years should be amazing!
MUSEUM VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
Looking to get involved in the community? The Museum of the San Ramon Valley needs your help. Volunteer positions are available in the following areas: • Walking Tour Docents • Museum Docents • Events Committee • Greeters • Educational Programs (One Room School/Indian Life) Call Eve or Donna at 552-9693, or email srvmuseum@sbcglobal.net for additional information.
PUBLIC SPEAKING WITH TOASTMASTERS
Do you hate speaking in front of a group? You’re not alone. But good presentation skills are demanded by nearly every employer these days. Toastmasters can help! Toastmasters is an organization where people can fine-tune their speaking skills and receive valuable feedback. Beginning and advanced speakers are welcome. Local chapter Danville AM Toastmasters meets every Tuesday from 7 to 8:30AM in downtown Danville. For the location and other details, please visit 4143.toastmastersclubs.org, or email DanvilleAMToastmasters@gmail.com.
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
SAN RAMON VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL
By Ruth Steele, Principal
Happy New Year everyone! The year 2016 was an eventful one for SRVHS. Since January 2016, we have implemented a new district calendar, a new SRVHS bell schedule, 1:1 technology across our whole campus, and the start of the demolition/construction process for our new three story/52 classroom building. Given that all of this fell within one calendar year, you could say that it was a very busy one! It’s nice to see how each of these initiatives is now providing benefits for students and staff that we did not have in the past. The new district wide calendar was put in place last August. The major feature of the calendar for high schools is that first semester finals now fall before Winter Break instead of in January. This means that students enjoyed two weeks over the holiday season without having to worry about studying for their finals! So far this seems to be making a positive difference for our students. The SRVHS bell schedule was completely redesigned, and we moved from a traditional six period day that was the same every day to a new schedule that encompassed two block days, a Home Room period, and two Access periods. This was a huge shift away from the traditional schedule that SRVHS was used to for the last 100 years. You can see the new schedule on our website. Home Room classes are organized by grade level, and we can use this time to run student education sessions, have class visits from counselors, complete school wide surveys, and many other activities. The schedule was designed to sweep interruptions out of the classroom. English and social studies are the two departments where students take classes at each grade level, so they were heavily impacted by class visits and other grade level activities. Access allows students to get help from teachers, work on homework, or get caught up. Teachers can also ask students to come in to see them during that time if they are struggling and need specific help. The block days feature an 85 minute class period instead of a 50 minute class period, and students only attend their regular classes once on Wednesday or Thursday. The pace of these two days is considerably calmer and kids only have to worry about three classes a day, not six. Teachers can also design curriculum/labs/activities that allow for greater depth/exploration with the extra time. Overall, the new schedule has been successful in addressing the challenges it was designed to address: staff and student stress, intervention for struggling students, and to give time back to everyone. However, we will be using January/ February to survey all stakeholders and see whether there are aspects that need any adjustments for next year. Our school wide 1:1 technology initiative means that every student now has a laptop or Chromebook with them in class. This is enabling staff and students to pursue learning beyond the text books and the four walls of the classroom on a daily basis. There is still a lot of learning for all of us as we navigate the successes and the challenges of having more digital access, but it’s fantastic to see the learning opportunities that are now available to both staff and students. Finally, the new building is set to begin construction sometime in the spring, and we are excited about the completion of this project. The old buildings are long gone, and the whole area in the middle of the campus is ready for construction to begin. Portable city (45 portable classrooms) is a thriving home away from home for the next two years, and everyone is now settled in! None of these changes would have been possible without the support, involvement, and adventurous spirit of our entire community. I am grateful to work in such an incredible school district and cannot thank our staff, students, and parents enough for making SRVHS such a special place. I look forward to another wonderful year as we move Gopher/Mole Removal into 2017 No Poison May your choices reflect your hopes, not your fears. ~ Nelson 925-765-4209 Mandela
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
JANUARY 2017 • ALAMO TODAY • PAGE 11
MONTE VISTA HIGH SCHOOL
You Know the Name of Your Doctor, Dentist & Hairdresser. BUT… Do you know your Realtors’ name? Don’t you think you should?!
By Dr. Kevin Ahern, Principal
Over the past month, the Monte Vista (MV) community experienced both successes and challenges; and, true to form, our students and faculty rose to both occasions. We confronted a huge challenge when an incident of racist graffiti was reported to our administration. In response, a school-wide assembly was held the following morning. The event began with four planned speakers and through an “open mike” forum continued with the voices of roughly 50 more students and faculty. The conversation continued in classrooms and at a student-run lunchtime forum where another 30 – 40 speakers spoke to a packed audience in the gym. The day concluded with a parent meeting where concerns were addressed and additional ideas were shared. What came across loud and clear was that we, as the Monte Vista High School Community, were not going to allow this incident to define us, and that there is great strength in the diversity of our school. Our work through programs like “Breaking Down the Walls” has put us on a path towards a safer and more supportive school culture. This incident further validated the importance of this work and confirmed that there is still more to do. I am proud of our students and faculty for stepping up to make a sad and difficult event into an opportunity for meaningful dialogue and positive changes on our school campus. In lighter news, our Athletics programs provided us with all kinds of reasons to celebrate as they closed out their fall campaigns. MV Football earned its first NCS Division I Championship in over a decade by defeating Antioch. The 42-18 victory was spear-headed by running back Shane Perry who rushed for 254 yards and three touchdowns. A week after this historic win, Danville Rotary honored MV quarterback, Jake Haener, with the Peter Villa Award which recognizes the outstanding high school football player of the San Ramon Valley. MV’s Women’s Tennis Team claimed their third consecutive NCS title by defeating Amador Valley. The team continued with a successful NorCal playoff run before being edged at the NorCal final 4-3 and settling for a third place finish in California. Women’s Volleyball also claimed its third consecutive NCS championship and made it to the semi-final round in the Division I NorCal playoffs, finishing fifth in the state. Men’s and Women’s Cross Country represented well at the CIF State meet in Fresno, finishing eleventh and fifth respectively. It was the second consecutive fifth place finish for MV’s women’s team with senior Meredith Corda finishing seventh overall (and running half the race with only one shoe). The men’s team was led by Tristan Miller, who equaled the all-time MV time for the course. Thanks to all of MV’s athletes and coaches for an outstanding fall season and the Monte Vista community for their support. MV’s Visual and Performing Arts (VAPA) programs also provided our community with several amazing performances. MV Dance kicked off the holidays with their annual Fall Dance Show. The performance had many routines organized and choreographed by students. Next, came our Drama Department with their performance of Look Homeward, Angel. MV’s nationally recognized Choir Program followed with another outstanding Winter Choral Concert. Our students sang to three nights of packed houses, and the audiences were treated to a variety of vocal musical genres. To close out the holiday performances, MV’s Award Winning Band, Jazz Band, and Orchestra performed their annual Holiday Concert. Once again, each performance played to packed houses. On behalf of all of our Arts programs, we would like to congratulate our VAPA students and faculty for another season of excellent performances and for all of the support provided by our parents and our community. On top of all of this, MV students and faculty went above and beyond in supporting our local and regional communities throughout the Tri-Valley area. In support of the Adopt-a-Family program, our students and staff filled a U-Haul truck full of gifts, and our dance program filled a second truck full of food for the Contra Costa County Food Bank. Students from MV’s Leadership class also stuffed stockings full of gifts for all of the students at Verde Elementary in Richmond and MV’s version of Santa and his elves delivered these items directly to the school. Hats off to MV’s students and faculty for making the holidays a little brighter for the people around us. I can’t close this column without a huge thank you to Monte Vista’s PTSA for the Holiday Bake. Amy Ertekin, Holiday Bake Chair, and her team did a fantastic job putting together holiday baskets and sharing them with MV faculty and staff. We are so appreciative of our PTSA and all of the positive things they bring to our campus. Many thanks to the Monte Vista Community for an amazing first half of the school year.
It’s time we met! Terri Silva CalBRE #01920415
925.519.0758 terri@terrisilva.com
ALAMO RESIDENT
©2016 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker® is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Office is Owned by a Subsidiary of NRT LLC. Real Estate Licensees affiliated with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage are Independent Contractor Sales Associates and are not employees of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC, Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage or NRT LLC. CalBRE License #01908304.
ROTARY CLUB OF ALAMO NAMES SHARON SCHULYER 2016 CITIZEN OF THE YEAR
The Rotary Club of Alamo recently named Sharon Schuyler the Alamo “Citizen of the Year” for 2016. In presenting the “Citizen of the Year” Award, Rotary Club of Alamo President Beth Burlingame-Randall said, “Sharon is a tireless worker on any event that will benefit the Alamo Community and is well deserving of this recognition.” The Rotary Cub of Alamo selects the Citizen of the Year based on service, integrity, citizenship, and demonstration of a unique commitment to the Alamo community that places her/him in a special place deserving this recognition. All members of the Alamo commu- Beth Burlingame-Randall and Sharon Schuyler nity are encouraged each year to nominate that person who best meets these criteria. Over many years Sharon has devoted countless hours working for the Alamo community. Some of her accomplishments include board member and numerous committee chairs for the Alamo Business and Professional Association (AMPA) which was a forerunner of the Alamo Chamber of Commerce. She was also President of the Alamo Chamber of Commerce. As president, she helped organize fund-raising events for scholarships for graduating seniors at Monte Vista and San Ramon High Schools. Sharon worked with the Danville Area Chamber of Commerce to merge the membership of the Alamo Chamber into the Danville Area Chamber and also helped form the Alamo Community Foundation which sponsors the Annual Tree Lighting event and the Annual Alamo Walkabout that showcases Alamo Businesses and their offerings. The Rotary Club of Alamo was founded on May 7, 1971, and has 50 members. The Club meets on Wednesdays at 12:15PM at Round Hill Country Club, 3169 Round Hill Road, Alamo.
PAGE 12 • ALAMO TODAY • JANUARY 2017
PIE DAY
By Monica Chappell
January 23 is National Pie day - not that we need much encouragement to eat pies. National Pie Day was created simply to celebrate the pie. It is a day for all to bake or cook their favorite pies. Even more importantly, it is a day set aside for all to enjoy eating pie, and in that spirit, I thought it would be fun to match a tasty wine with your favorite piece of savory pie. Beef pies with red wine sauce: This pairing will work with any full-bodied red. I tend to favor Rhône-style reds, but try any earthy red. Cooking with the same wine you drink is always a smart trick. Chicken pies with a creamy filling: The gold standard of savory pie would have to be the chicken pot pie. My go-to wine is a New Zealand Sauvignon, or try a less aromatic white like an unoaked or subtly oaked Chardonnay. Pies with a tomatoey filling: Regardless of what the other ingredients are, I generally find cooked tomato works best with an Italian Sangiovese or a Tempranillo-based red like Rioja, especially if there’s chorizo involved in the pie mix. Cheese and spinach pies: I generally prefer crisp whites such as Sauvignon Blanc or even a more neutral white with a light vegetarian pie like this, but in contrast, pairing this pie with a Beaujolais works really well also. Dessert pies: That’s for another article! Once you have your perfect bite, post it on social media #NationalPieDay. Happy Pairing! Monica Chappell is a wine writer and educator based in Lafayette. rd
HOSPICE VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
Hospice of the East Bay is seeking volunteers to assist Hospice patients and their caregivers. Opportunities include: • Licensed Hair Stylists to offer hair cuts and styling • Certified Massage Therapists to provide massage therapy • Administrative Support Volunteers to assist in the Pleasant Hill office • Thrift Shoppe Volunteers to work in one of the organization’s five stores which are located in Alamo, Concord, Martinez, Danville, and Walnut Creek. • Bereavement Support Volunteers to provide support to family members after their loved one has died • Patient Support Volunteers to provide companionship and practical assistance To apply for free training, call Hospice at (925) 887-5678 and ask for the Volunteer Department, or email volunteers@hospiceeastbay.org. Established in 1977, Hospice of the East Bay is a not-for-profit agency that helps people cope with end of life by providing medical, emotional, spiritual, and practical support for patients and families, regardless of their ability to pay. To learn more or to make a donation of time or money, please contact (925) 887-5678 or visit www.hospiceeastbay.org.
MEALS ON WHEELS
Seniors in your community need your support! Meals on Wheels and Senior Outreach Services has been supporting seniors since 1968. Two of the programs, Meals on Wheels and Friendly Visitors, rely on the support of volunteers. We need your help now more than ever. Meals on Wheels volunteer drivers deliver meals to local homebound seniors through regular two hour shifts once per week or as substitute drivers. Friendly Visitors volunteers provide weekly one-hour companionship visits to isolated seniors. To volunteer for either program, please call (925)937-8311.
BOOKS FOR THE HOMEBOUND
If you or someone you know has a passion for reading and can no longer visit the library, find out more about the Danville Library’s Books for the Homebound program, a free and unique library service. Trained library volunteers check out and deliver books to homebound individuals residing in their own homes or residential care facilities. Contact Sandra Paiva, Volunteer Coordinator, at the Danville Library at (925) 837-4889 for more information.
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
QUICK TRIPS
ENCHANTED HIKE By Linda Summers Pirkle
Paris and Côté de Sud may get the press, but the forest of Paimpont in the Northwest region of France is an unexpected, under-rated, and under-the-radar destination. A group of us met at the steps of a beautiful stone church, Eglise de Graal (Church of the Grail) which is located in the small town Trehorenteuc, Brittany. Our guide, Jean Pierre, a 75-year-old beret wearing gentleman, and his scruffy little dog led us through the enchanted forest that according to legend is the place where the great magician Merlin lies in his tomb. Jean Pierre wove stories of Vivane, the Lady of the Lake who raised Sir Lancelot while pointing out native plants and advising us to be on the lookout for the French version of pesky leprechauns. Paimpont’s woodland area is privately owned but accessible to visitors on designated hiking trails. The Bay Area has its own enchanted trails, and the system of beautiful parklands and trails in Alameda and Contra Costa Counties is comprised of 121,122 acres in 65 parks, including over 1,250 miles of trails. We are lucky! My son and I set out on an excursion recommended by avid hiker Murray, a Lafayette resident who mentioned it was one of his favorite under-the-radar spots. We took Fish Ranch Road heading west on Highway 24, and at the first junction we turned left and crossed over the freeway above the Caldecott tunnel, then turned at the first right, and parked in the small parking lot (five spaces only). We started our hike by walking through the gate marked Skyline Trail South. This short trek (9/10ths of a mile), which leads to Sibley Volcanic Visitor Center is an entry to a 32-mile East Bay Skyline National Recreation trail that goes through six different parks and preserves and leads to the larger 550-mile Bay Area Ridge Trail that circles the entire Bay Area. The gradual climb took us through an enchanting canyon with stunning evergreen plants, fragrant Bay Laurel trees, and a creek. This pass, also known as the Caldecott Wildlife corridor, provides deer, fox and bobcats as well as other wildlife the ability to safely move between parklands on the south and north sides of Highway 24. Our hike led us to the Robert Sibley Regional Volcanic Preserve Visitor Center with a self-guided display that is informative and beautifully written. An excerpt from the display reads, “It’s a fine place to see a single Golden Eagle move beneath a wheeling flock of Turkey Vultures or to watch a mating pair of Red-Tailed Hawks tumble from the blue sky…it’s a fascinating place to see what happens where the city comes slamming into the countryside...” We learned about the 10-million-year old volcano, and a self-guided brochure is highlights visible geological features. If you have not made your New Year’s resolution yet, you may be interested in the Trails Challenge, a free program that entices walkers to discover new trails. Co-sponsored by the East Bay Regional Park District, Regional Parks Foundation features 20 trails of various difficulties in parks throughout the District. You can pick up a 2017 Trails Challenge booklet at any Visitor Center or at the Park District headquarters, 2950 Peralta Oaks Court, Oakland, or visit the website www.regionalparksfoundation.org. If you would like to drive to Robert Sibley Regional Volcanic from Highway 24, take the Fish Ranch Road immediately east of the Caldecott Tunnel. Continue 0.8 miles to Grizzly Peak Blvd. Turn left and go 2.4 miles on Grizzly Peak to Skyline Blvd. Turn left and drive 0.1 mile to the preserve entrance on the left. Linda Summers Pirkle, travel consultant and long term Danville resident,is inspired by the many wonderful places to visit in the Bay Area. She organizes day trips, either for groups or for friends and family. To share your “Quick Trips” ideas email Coverthemap@gmail.com.
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
JANUARY 2017 • ALAMO TODAY • PAGE 13
NEW ENGLAND INTERLUDE
HAPPY NEW YEAR 2017
By Mike Ferguson, Alamo World Travel
This September, my wife, my father-inlaw, and I indulged in one of our favorite forms of entertainment--cruising with Crystal Cruises. We have cruised with Crystal before and enjoy everything that Crystal is known for: impeccable service, culinary excellence, on-board activities with guest lecturers, enrichment classes, and fabulous entertainment including an amazing magic act at Crystal’s Magic Castle. We dined at Silk Road and The Sushi Bar led by world-renowned master chef Nobuyuki Nobu Matsuhisa, as well as at Prego, both specialty restaurants that are included complimentary on every sailing. To begin our adventure, we flew into Montreal and spent the night at the Westin which was in walking distance to everything we wanted to see. Had we not been to Montreal recently, we would have spent extra days there, it is such a fascinating city. Then we boarded the Crystal Serenity in Quebec City, a UNESCO-designated World Heritage site and the only walled city north of Mexico. From our balcony we had a beautiful view of the world-renowned Chateau Frontenac which is especially gorgeous lit up at night. The next morning we toured the old city and the new, and then our cruise began. Our first stop was Sept-Iles Quebec. From there we cruised to Halifax, Nova Scotia, a city built around a natural harbor that’s second in size only to the port of Sydney, Australia. From Halifax, we visited a very recognizable working lighthouse in Peggy’s Cove, Nova Scotia. Picturesque Portland, Maine’s largest city, was next and now I have visited my 49th state. We then sailed on to pretty Kennebunkport, home to George H.W. Bush, where we enjoyed outstanding crab and clam chowder. In Boston we took a tour of Boston Harbor, appreciating the history that Boston is so famous for: the Freedom Trail, Boston Commons, Bunker/ Breeds Hill, and a visit to the USS Constitution. Newport, Rhode Island was next, and we saw how the other .000001% lived in the “Gilded Age” mansions, each larger and more opulent than the next. We toured The Breakers, Newport’s most famous mansion, then continued on to the Naval War College Museum where we were immersed in maritime history. The cruise ended in NYC, where we once again enjoyed the skyline, the history, the culture, the energy, and of course the food. We splurged and saw Hamilton at the Richard Rogers Theatre—wow! It lives up to all the hype. New York is a vibrant city that we will return to, just as we will also cruise with Crystal again, next time on one of their new Luxury River Cruises or their 62-guest yacht, the Crystal Esprit. For more information on Crystal Cruises or other travel--cruises, river cruises, escorted tours, or custom travel -- please call Mike at 925-837-8742 ext 14, or visit www.alamoworld.com. Why trust your vacation to an Internet “agent” with little training and no travel experience? Alamo World Travel and Tours has been providing expert travel service for 36 years. Advertorial Luxury Travel Specialists
ALAMO WORLD TRAVEL presents our
VACATION SHOWCASE 2017
on Tuesday, January 24 from 5:30 to 7:30pm at the Crow Canyon Country Club in San Ramon
Meet our Expert Luxury Travel Partners for an exclusive look at trends and experiences: AmaWaterways River Cruises, Tauck Tours & Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Trafalgar/Brendan Vacations, Holland America/Seabourn, WindStar Cruises, African Travel & BackRoads.
Enjoy Wine, Hors d’oeuvres, Special Offers, Door Prizes, and a Grand Prize Drawing for Airfare for two to Hawaii!
Please Join Us!
**RSVP Required to info@alamoworld.com or call 925-837-8742 to make your reservation.
When do you plan on moving?
CURRENT LISTINGS
• 100 Atkinson Street, Roseville - 8 commercial buildings plus 6 acres of parking. Across the street from Denio’s Auction/Flea Market – OFFERED at $4.2 million. • 766 Citrus Avenue, Concord, 4 bedroom, 3 bath, large lot, pool – OFFERED at $711,000. • Vernon Street and Riverside Avenue, Roseville - 30 acres vacant commercial land – OFFERED at $3.7 million.
SOLD PROPERTIES
295 Las Quebradas Lane, Alamo – SOLD | 297 Las Quebradas Lane, Alamo – SOLD 299 Las Quebradas Lane, Alamo – SOLD | Hickory Rail Way, Elk Grove – SOLD Colfax Theater, 49 South Main Street, Colfax – SOLD Historic Masonic Lodge, plus 27 acres, Dutch Flat – SOLD 918 Douglas Boulevard, Roseville – SOLD
Dale Bridges
United California Brokers | BRE 01176228
(925) 876-9710 | dale@dalebridges.com
“Let’s Do Business”
ROTARY PRESENTS COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD
The Rotary Club of Alamo recently presented the first-ever community service award to San Ramon Valley Fire Chief Paige Meyer for his outstanding service to the Alamo community and the San Ramon Valley. In presenting the award, Diane Barley, club and vocational service director, said “the Rotary Club of Alamo established the Community Service Award to honor our community’s first responders and others who exemplify Rotary Internationals motto of ‘Service Above Self.’ Paige Meyer was selected to receive the first award because he is an able negotiator, respected arbitrator, and excellent communicator. In addition, Paige has done an Paige Meyer and Diane Barley outstanding job in his ability to balance fiscal policy and restraints, management issues, and the needs of the firefighters. Further, the new Alamo Fire Station being built at the corner of Stone Valley Road and Miranda Avenue is coming in under budget and on schedule,” she noted. The Fire Station is expected to open for service in late February or early March 2017. In accepting the community service award, Chief Meyer stated that it is very special to be the first recipient of this award from the Rotary Club of Alamo and that he was pleased and humbled to do so on behalf of all of the firefighters in the San Ramon Valley. Chief Meyer joined the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District in March 2013 from the Vallejo Fire Department where he served in various positions for 16 years, most recently as the Fire Chief. He currently serves as a board member of the East Bay Regional Communications Authority, an honorary member of the San Ramon Chamber of Commerce, and a member of the Contra Costa County Executive Fire Chiefs, serving as president from 2013 to 2015. He began his career 25-years ago as a volunteer firefighter for the City of Stockton and later as a public safety officer with the City of Sunnyvale. He attended Cal State Chico and holds degrees in Public Administration and Fire Science.
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
PAGE 14 • ALAMO TODAY • JANUARY 2017
WHAT’S UP
TAX TALK WITH BOB
MT. DIABLO ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY By Jim Scala
By Bob Shalon, IRS Enrolled Agent, H&R Block
Build A Sundial. On January 24 at the Mount Diablo Astronomical Society (MDAS) meeting in the Lindsey Wildlife Museum, a talk will be given on how to build a sundial. A good sundial is more than a decorative yard ornament, and, if correctly built, it will give accurate time. It’s also a fine way to understand time. There will be no program on Mt. Diablo this month. Observe the full Moon through binoculars. If you observe the Moon through binoculars from about January 10th though the 12th when it’s full, you’re in for some interesting views. Notice the system of rays that radiate from a central crater – Copernicus – located in a large dark area known as Mare Imbrium, the sea of rains. Ancient observers thought the large dark areas were seas like on the Earth. The bright ray system that radiates from Copernicus was formed by debris that was thrown out when a meteor crashed into the ancient moon, creating that spectacular crater. In 2001, A Space Odyssey, it was the lunar crater where the monolith was found and was a central feature. Venus dominates the western evening sky. Look West in the early evening around 5:00PM, and you can see Venus as the brightest star in the sky. It’s Earth’s twin, and through binoculars, it looks like a small version of the half-full or quarter Moon. Venusian phases are the result of it being closer to the sun, and as it catches up alongside Earth and passes by, it exhibits phases. Since Venus gets closer, it appears to get larger. When we look west in the evening sky, we’re actually looking back where we’ve been and can see Venus. Since our orbits are slightly tilted, Venus only transits the sun’s disk every 121.5 years. A crossing of the sun’s disk happens again in December 2117. Observe our twin galaxy. Look up high and you will see the Andromeda Constellation to the right of Venus. It appears like a large square with an arm going off to the north. Take your binoculars and search along that northward arm, and you will see a small, hazy patch of light. That’s our galaxy’s twin, the Andromeda Galaxy, which is 2.2 million light years away. Hence, Andromeda Galaxy as it appears in a telescope and Venus as seen through we see it as it a small telescope and binoculars. Composite and photos by Jim Scala was 2.2 million years ago, while we are 2.2 million years in their future. th
ACTION POOL REPAIR
Serving Alamo & Danville Since 1979!
925.820.3640 www.actionpoolrepair.com Contractor Lic# 978033-C53
Yes, I am back! I’d like to say that it is by popular demand, but I don’t think you will fall for it! Happy New Year everyone. I hope you are all happy and healthy. In this article I want to review some changes to the tax code and the IRS processing of your returns. FRAUDULENT TAX RETURNS have grown to become a major issue for IRS. Those of you who know me are aware that I do not blindly defend IRS and their methods of operation. I will tell you that if you submit an accurate tax return which has a refund due, they want to process the return and get you your money promptly. When I transmit a tax return, I get an acceptance or rejection within minutes based on the security numbers that are on the return. If someone else used your social security number fraudulently and processed the return before you, IRS computers will accept the first return and reject yours since your number has already been used on a tax return. This does not mean you will lose your refund, but the process of recovery is upsetting to you and delays your refund considerably. Technology is a wonderful thing. Unfortunately technology advances can be used the wrong way. In December of 2015, Congress recognizing the growing issue of tax fraud, created the PATH Act (Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes), to begin the process of combating the problems. The IRS has determined that fraudulent returns occur frequently in certain situations. • Returns qualifying for Earned Income Credit • Returns with Additional Child Tax Credit • Returns with any Education Tax Credit As a result, if your return contains any of these tax credits, refunds will not be released until February 15 to give the IRS time to thoroughly examine each return. If you do not have any of these three credits, your return will process in the Bob Shalon, EA normal time frame. Master Tax Advisor • Enrolled Agent There are other ways that the IRS is 925.820.9570 looking for fraud on a 718 San Ramon Valley Blvd, Danville tax return, which for Sycamore Square (next to Lucky’s) bob.shalon@tax.hrblock.com obvious reasons I will not review in this article. This summer our district handled about four times the amount of audits than in the past. Areas that were looked at were business mileage taken by an employee and certain stock options. In my next article I will review what to provide if you are audited. Warmest regards to everyone! Please call me at any time at 925-820-9570, email bob.shalon@tax. hrblock.com, or stop by my office located at 718 San Ramon Valley Blvd., Advertorial Danville with any questions.
COMMUNITY MEETINGS AND EVENTS
AIA - ALAMO IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION - PLEASE VISIT WWW.ALAMOCA.ORG FOR UPCOMING MEETINGS - CREEKSIDE COMMUNITY CHURCH -1350 DANVILLE BLVD. ALAMO MAC (MUNICIPAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE) - FIRST TUESDAY OF EACH MONTH 6PM - ALAMO WOMEN’S CLUB P2B - POLICE SERVICES ADVISORY COMMITTEE - FIRST MONDAY OF EACH MONTH, 5PM - MEETS AT SHERIFF SUBSTATION, 150 ALAMO PLAZA P5 - ROUND HILL POLICE SERVICES ADVISORY COMMITTEE SECOND WEDNESDAY OF EACH MONTH, 7PM - MEETS AT ROUND HILL COUNTRY CLUB - LOWER LEVEL MEETING ROOM CERT CLASSES - COMMUNITY EMERGENCY RESPONSE TEAM - VISIT WWW.FIREDEPARTMENT.ORG/COMMUNITY_OUTREACH/ CERT/UPCOMING_CLASSES.ASP
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
JANUARY 2017 • ALAMO TODAY • PAGE 15
Alamo’s 1st & Only Pediatric Dentist! Alamo Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics Welcomes Dr. Allan Pang Dr. Pang completed his undergraduate degree at the University of California, San Diego. He earned his Doctorate of Dental Medicine at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine in Boston, Massachusetts. After Tufts he completed a General Practice Residency at University of California, Los Angeles. Thereafter, Dr. Pang practiced general dentistry in the community of Los Gatos, California for two years. It was during this time that he realized how much he enjoyed working with his pediatric patients and returned to school to specialize in Pediatric Dentistry. His residency in Pediatric Dentistry at New York University-Bellevue Hospital in New York City allowed for him to have extensive training in treating the well child and those with special healthcare needs such as children with craniofacial disorders and developmental disabilities. Dr. Pang has been in private practice since 2008. He is a Board Certified Pediatric Dentist, a Diplomate with the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, and a member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.
(925) 831-8310
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
PAGE 16 • ALAMO TODAY • JANUARY 2017
SPARE THE AIR
By Debbie Weiss, Sustainable Danville Area
On Christmas Eve, I wanted a wood-burning fire in my living room fireplace. The Yule Log on TV just wasn’t going to cut it. But it was a winter “Spare the Air” day, so Bay Area residents were barred from burning wood or other solid fuels in their fireplaces. If I were found violating this regulation, I’d be fined $100 for a first time offense or required to take a wood smoke awareness class. A second violation holds a fine of $500, so the penalty for a crackling fire on a Spare the Air day is painful. Any wood burning fire adds to the local air pollution, releasing soot into the air. As much as I missed the holiday flames, I satisfied myself that I wouldn’t be contributing to the sore throats and lung irritation of folks who went outside, particularly those with vulnerable health due to respiratory ailments. I sighed and revved up Netflix with its streaming online fireplace. The website, Sparetheair.org, lists when there’s an alert in effect and you can sign up to receive e-mail or text message warnings the day before the alert goes into effect. Other ways to check for an alert include calling (877) 4-NO-BURN, visiting baaqmd.gov, or using Spare the Air phone apps. There are usually 15-20 Winter Spare the Air Days and we are already racking them up. The District can issue a winter Spare the Air alert from November 1 through February 28th. Winter weather consisting of cold, still days with stagnant air traps wood smoke close to the ground, concentrating the air pollution from the smoke to unhealthy levels. Wood smoke is the largest source of winter particulate pollution. Particulate matter, generally soot, consists of microscopically small solid or liquid particles suspended in the air. On winter Spare the Air days, wood-burning fires are banned. The ban includes EPA-certified wood stoves, fireplace inserts, and pellet stoves. Though these devices burn more cleanly than regular fireplaces, they still emit fine particulate air pollution. Similarly, outside fires like bonfires and fires in outdoor fire pits are banned as are fires using manufactured logs. So, my cache of Duraflame logs in the garage isn’t going to help when an alert is in effect. The Air Quality Index categorizes air pollution on a scale of zero to 500. The index is based on federal air quality standards for six major pollutants: ozone, carbon, monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide and two sizes of particulate matter, PM10 and PM2.5. PM10 refers to a particle less than or equal to 10 microns in size and PM 2.5 to those smaller or equal to 2.5 microns. Of the two sizes, the smaller, PM2.5, is the more serious health concern because the smaller particles can travel more deeply into people’s lungs than the larger ones. In the wintertime, wood smoke contributes about one-third of the overall particulate matter pollution. Motor vehicles also contribute a significant amount. Spare the Air days are important because increased, trapped concentrations
QUILT EVENT
Assistance League® of Diablo Valley is a nonprofit, member volunteer organization dedicated to improving lives in our community through its hands-on programs.Throughout the year, member volunteers at Assistance League Way Side Inn Thrift Shop, located at 3521 Golden Gate Way in Lafayette, have collected quilts and related items in preparation for the Quilt event scheduled to begin The quilt embodies a balance of practicality, Tuesday, January 10. heritage and art. Whether appliqué or piece, vintage or new, quilts have enjoyed a balance of practicality, heritage, and art throughout our nation’s history. To this day, a valuable lesson endures; we need to continue this example of ingenuity and innovation by renewing our resources rather than by discarding and replacing them. Venture through the Assistance League Way Side Inn Thrift Shop to find a selection of beautifully crafted quilts, many of them hand pieced and hand stitched. You will also find fabrics, quilt frames, and quilt books. If you have any quilt related donations, volunteers will happily add them to this special event. As with the early chapters of our nation’s history, our local community faces numerous challenges. Your generous donations to the Thrift Shop, along with your purchases there, not only ease suffering, but they also restore hope. To learn about Assistance League’s philanthropic programs which are primarily funded by the thrift shop, please visit diablovalley.assistanceleague.org.
of pollution can impact people’s health. Breathing pollution can cause people to suffer from throat irritation, congestion, and chest pain. Air pollution can inflame the lining of the lungs, cause shortness of breath, trigger asthma, and aggravate conditions like bronchitis and emphysema. Long term exposure to ozone can reduce lung function. High levels of ozone are particularly harmful to young children, seniors, and those with respiratory or heart conditions. During a summer Spare the Air alert, the main way to help is to drive less. We can walk, bike, telecommute (if possible), car pool, link errands together, use public transit, and generally avoid driving unnecessarily. We shouldn’t use gas-powered gardening equipment like lawn mowers and leaf blowers. If we want to barbecue, we should use a gas grill instead of charcoal. We should also avoid using aerosol spray cans, like those containing paint or hair spray. And, as always, we can reduce our use of household energy. So “Spare the Air” spares the environment, helping to reduce air pollution when it’s needed the most and, in doing so, sparing our health, especially for those who are most vulnerable to poor air quality. On Christmas Eve, I revved up the TV fireplace, but wanting to enjoy more fires – even during Spare the Air days – I visited a local business and invested in ceramic logs that quickly turned my gas starter into a gas-burning fireplace. Sitting in front of the fire with friends, I relished the fact that we were sharing good wine and good times – and not PM2.5 particle matter.
BEWARE OF POISONOUS MUSHROOMS IN EAST BAY PARKS
By East Bay Regional Parks Staff
Due to the recent rains, the East Bay Regional Park District is seeing a surge in poisonous mushrooms growing in our local parks. Visitors are reminded that it’s illegal to collect mushrooms – or any plants - found in the parks. In addition, pet owners especially should keep their dogs away from mushrooms.
ABOUT POISONOUS MUSHROOMS
The Bay Area is home to two of the world’s most toxic mushrooms – Amanita phalloides (the Death Cap) and Amanita ocreata (the Western Destroying Angel). Both are robust, handsome mushrooms that grow near oak trees, Amanita ocreata and both contain lethal toxins. Amanita phalloides (the Death Cap) is a medium to large mushroom that typically has a greenish-gray cap, white gills, a white ring around the stem, and a large white sac at the base of the stem. It fruits early in the fall, usually right after the first rains. Though the Death Cap is mainly associated with oak trees, it has been found growing with other hardwoods. It was accidentally introduced to North America on the roots of European cork oaks, and is now slowly colonizing the West Coast. Amanita ocreata (the Western Destroying Angel) is a medium to large mushroom that usually has a creamy white cap, white gills, a white ring around the stem that disappears with age, and a thin white sac at the base. It fruits from late winter into spring, and is associated exclusively with oaks. Unlike the Death Cap, it is a native California mushroom. Both of these species contain amatoxins, a group of molecules that inhibit cellular metabolism in many animals. In mammals, the liver and kidneys are typically the first organs affected after ingestion. Symptoms don’t usually appear until up to 12 hours after consumption, beginning as severe gastrointestinal distress and progressing to liver and renal failure if treatment is not sought immediately. While these two species are responsible for most cases of mushroom poisonings in California, deadly amatoxins can be found in Galerina and Lepiota species as well, both of which occur in the Bay Area. Park visitors should remember that mushroom collecting is not allowed anywhere in the East Bay Regional Park District. If you are legally harvesting mushrooms elsewhere, learn these two species before any others and do not let them end up on your dinner table. Pet owners are encouraged to keep their animals under close watch during the winter months, and contact a veterinarian immediately if you suspect your pet has eaten a toxic mushroom. For more information read Mushrooms of the Redwood Coast, Siegal & Schwarz. 10-speed Press, 2016 or visit bayareamushrooms.org.
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
JANUARY 2017 • ALAMO TODAY • PAGE 17
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
PAGE 18 • ALAMO TODAY • JANUARY 2017
WINTER PRUNING
By Blaine Brende & Joe Lamb
Now is a great time to prune your trees to protect them against winter storms. A judicious pruning can reduce the likelihood of branches falling and causing damage to person or property. Evergreens, such as cedars, and many species of deciduous trees, such as valley oaks, can be pruned in the late fall and early winter, and now is by far the best time to prune pines. Monterey pines can only be pruned between October 1 and February 15 without attracting pine beetles. These potentially lethal beetles, which can smell sap from long distances, go dormant in the winter. Some species of beetles carry pine pitch canker, an increasingly common fungal disease that disfigures pine trees and sometimes kills them. If your tree has dead tips scattered throughout the canopy, it probably suffers from pine pitch canker. To prolong the aesthetic life of the diseased tree, prune out the infected tips when the beetles are dormant. Even healthy trees require occasional pruning to keep them safe and beautiful. Many trees are subject to branch and column failure. Thinning the crown reduces the wind-sail effect of the canopy and thereby reduces the risk of the tree failing in a windstorm. Removing weight from the ends of heavy branches reduces the likelihood that those branches will break. Pruning trees for safety is a craft requiring study and experience. A wellpruned tree should not only be safer, it should look beautiful. At Brende & Lamb we take great pride in both the science and the art of pruning. Each plant has a natural growth pattern. Our trimmers are expert at accentuating the shape given the plant by nature. Within the bounds of what is healthy for each species, Brende & Lamb works to make trees as beautiful as possible. Our trimmers are well practiced in aesthetic pruning and are attuned to the artistic flow inherent in tree forms. The form may be weeping, as with Willows and Chinese Elms. In some species, such as Monterey Cypress, branches ascend at acute angles to the trunk, giving the tree an upswept
CLIP NOTES
By Jody Morgan
The “lemon leaves” used extensively in the floral trade don’t grow on citrus trees. Unlike professionals in the nursery business, florists frequently place orders using common parlance rather than scientifically proper botanical nomenclature. Also known as salal, the long-lasting foliage favored for everything from elaborate arrangements and elegant wreaths to exquisite corsages mimics the lustrous emerald aspect, evergreen habit, size and shape of the leaves produced by an actual lemon tree. But pickers don’t need ladders to harvest it. Properly designated Gaultheria shallon, salal is native as a groundcover or shrub, dependent on growing conditions, from British Columbia to the central coast of California. Lester Rowntree’s description in Flowering Shrubs of California makes me wish I had discovered salal in its native habitat rather than in floral design class. “At its starting point it is a one-foot plant with an inferiority complex, creeping humbly about in the woods, or in full sun in the foggiest regions, a handsome but rather sparse groundcover. … As it goes north it becomes taller, making in the rich humus, the summer heat, and the moisture of the Redwood region a slender upright, eightfoot shrub. In the still places under the Redwoods, Salal is a different creature … It ramps about high and low, rising tall above pure humus of old stumps, surging over the hollows left by uprooted trees, springing up along fallen logs.” The common names and species epithet are borrowed from Native American dialects. Chinooks called it “ki-kwu-sha-la.” The Makah tribe called it “sala’xbupt.” Encountering salal in 1806, Lewis and Clark transcribed the word they heard as “shelwel.” They wrote that elk devoured the leaves, and people relished the berries. Related to blueberries and huckleberries, salal has similar pink-blushed bell-shaped flowers followed by blue-black berries rich in vitamins and anti-oxidants. Berries range from barely palatable to decidedly delicious depending on where they grow. Indigenous people found multiple uses for salal. In addition to ingesting the berries both fresh and dried for baking into loaves or mixing with other fruits, they brewed medicinal tea from the leaves and sometimes smoked the
look. Branches in the coast live oak bend and twist, forming complex arcs. Each tree species has a unique form and flow. When necessary, trees and shrubs can be reduced in size, but crown reduction requires a good eye; a poorly reduced tree looks like a thicket of stubs. Topping is almost always a bad idea. However, the crown of many trees can be reduced by cutting back long branches to the crotches formed by shorter branches growing in the same direction. If the branch doesn’t fork, we cut back to the lowest growth point that will neither create a thick stub nor undermine the arching quality of the branch. When a tree or shrub has been reduced in this way, it’s difficult to detect the cuts or tell that the branches have been shortened. Sometimes the form of trees needs to be modified to capture or accentuate views. View pruning requires restraint and a willingness to compromise. In view work, the beauty of the view and the beauty of the tree often seem to be in conflict. Many pruners focus solely on the view and simply hack back the tree. However, more than the tree’s beauty is at stake. Topping stimulates production of water sprouts, and it also causes disease and rot - all of which make the tree more, not less, dangerous. However, view problems can often be solved by looking at tree-and-view as an aesthetic unity, as two elements that complement and frame each other. Sometimes, lightly bringing the tree back without cutting into major branches can prevent further encroachment on the view. To recover even more of the view, we create “windows” by selectively removing branches not essential for the tree’s natural form. We can enlarge these by removing small branches that rise or drop into the view. Thinning above and below the window creates an overall feeling of openness, rather than an abrupt gaping hole. The image of Mount Diablo framed by the trembling needles of a well-windowed Redwood proves that nature and civilization can complement each other - as can aesthetics and practicality. If your trees need a little TLC to protect them against winter winds, or if your property could use a little fire protection, please call 510-486-TREE (8733) or email us at bl@brendelamb.com for a free estimate. Additionally, go to our website www.brendelamb.com to see before and after pictures, Advertorial client testimonials, and work in your neighborhood. leaves like tobacco. Valuable as a preservative, the leaves also served to assuage hunger in times of want. Some tribes even created cups from the sturdy foliage, which is thick and coated underneath with a waxy substance that accounts for its ability to stay green and pliable even when desiccated. The generic name honors a French doctor and naturalist, Jean-Francois Gaultier, who to settled in Quebec in 1742 to fill the post of King’s Physician. Swedish botanist Pehr Kalm was so taken with Gaultier’s service as guide on his horticultural expedition to Canada in 1749, that he named the genus for his host. Introduced to England by David Douglas in 1828, salal suffocates other vegetation when left to run wild. In Leaves, Alice Thomas Vitale quotes the account of a salal harvester. “I’m a bush-picker. I make my living picking sword fern, cedar, salal, and huckleberry foliage, and selling it to packing plants in the area. Salal should be put together with odd leaves tucked neatly in between. As long as you don’t take more than twenty-five percent of any one plant’s foliage, you don’t have to worry about hurtin’ the shrubbery you pick from.” Student researchers at the University of Washington Ivy He, Nicole LaBrie, Megan Morgan and Anna Ryiko recently concluded: “The political ecology of salal is inextricably tied to the floral industry. The highest demand for this aesthetic use of salal comes mainly from Europe. The workers who harvest salal come mainly from Mexico, Guatemala and Southeast Asia, all coming together in Western Washington and the Olympic Peninsula where salal grows plentifully, where harvest takes place, and where wholesalers set themselves up to reel in the cash. There is a lot of money to be made in the salal floral industry. … Already one fourth the size of Washington State’s famous apple industry, the demand for salal remains high and continues to grow.” The worker quoted in Leaves was making forty-three cents for a 1.5 lb. bundle of unblemished salal. While the date of the statement is not disclosed, the relationship between wages earned by brush-pickers who are required to obtain permits and profits accrued by companies marketing the commodity remain disproportionate. According to a Seattle Times article published 2/11/2015, harvesting salal began as a cottage industry in 1915, but now it provides one of the three most used foliages in commercial floral arrangements worldwide.
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
LIFE IN THE ALAMO GARDEN
CREATING A KID MAGNET By John Montgomery, ASLA, Landscape Architect #4059
What is a “kid magnet”? Well, it is a term that has newly emerged from families I’ve been working with on the creation of their outdoor environments. A “kid magnet” is a yard that has all the elements in it that attract kids to want to stay at home and have friends come over. With growing concerns, real and perceived dangers in the world, parents have been asking me to create outdoor environments that will attract their children and their friends to their home. The main idea is to keep children and teens at home were they are safe, occupied, and within a parent’s watchful eye. An outdoor environment that is geared toward being a “kid magnet” has many elements that allow children and teens to be active, be together with their friends, and most importantly, want to stay there. The yard has to be multi-purpose. The elements of the landscape need to challenge a child physically, mentally, and visually. In other words, there need to be places to physically exert the enormous amounts of energy that children and teens have. There need to be places for adventure, imagination, games, reflection, and risk-taking. Within that environment of physical and mental challenge, it has to be visually pleasing to children while being pleasing the adults, too! It has to look cool! A child will naturally be attracted to stay and play.
JANUARY 2017 • ALAMO TODAY • PAGE 19
Ro u n d H i l l C o u n t r y C l u b
Renovation Special Renovate your lifestyle In anticipation of our upcoming Clubhouse renovation, Round Hill Country Club is offering up to a $10,000 credit on a limited number of new Memberships. • Golf Membership: Initiation $40,000*, receive a credit on the Member account of $10,000. • Tennis Membership: Initiation $6,000, receive a credit on the Member account of $3,000. • Associate-Swim Membership: Initiation $2,500, receive a credit on the Member account of $1,250. Available January 6 to March 1, 2017. Promotional credits are usable for any charges other than Initiation Fees. Admissions Requirements apply. *Purchase of a share also required.
Please contact our Membership Office for more details at rhcc@roundhillcc.org or 925.314.2901 Offer subject to change without prior notice.
www.rhcountryclub.com
Plastic-coated steel play equipment made in primary colors is not the prerequisite for engaging a child’s attention. If you were asked to recall your favorite childhood place, it would probably be a special tree you climbed, a space for a “secret” house or fort under a hedge, or somewhere you could mold dirt or sand into fantasy landscapes. Play equipment is certainly an added activity center for your “kid magnet,” but it’s not enough. It is now recognized that risk-taking is an important element of play and physical development. A “kid magnet” is designed intentionally to provide an environment for your children and their friends to develop an appreciation of risk in a controlled play environment so that they won’t be enticed to take similar risks in the uncontrolled and unregulated wider world. Your yard should have levels of graduated challenge. In design terms, this means that children of different ages, abilities, and levels of daring need to find activities that are within their capabilities plus some that are just beyond them. What are some of the elements in an Alamo yard that can provide this kind of environment? The landscape itself is definitely the primary element that provides the environment for this to occur. A lush, tree-filled, sunny yard with large lawn spaces and plantings that children are allowed to interact with provides hours upon hours of play. Play sets, swings, slides etc. will give your child a place for hours of extended energy output. Places for games to be played are necessary. Lawns are wonderful places for any child who is sport-minded: soccer, baseball, football, tag, croquette, volleyball, hide-and-seek, gymnastics, cartwheels, and the list can go on and on because children are not limited to play on a plastic play set. Swimming pools definitely add the element of water play and physical activities to the point where a child needs to be pulled from the water because they look like a prune. Recent additions to some of my pool designs are beach areas or “Baja” shelves, water slides, waterfalls, and diving rocks. Beaches and shelves provide shallow areas for the younger ones so they can safely play in the pool; water slides for the older ones to provide adventure and fun; waterfalls for the sound, action, and adventure; and diving rocks for safe risk-taking. Sports courts are great for all kinds of activities. Basketball, paddleball, roller hockey, volleyball, and badminton are just a few. It’s unbelievable what children can create to do when they have an environment that supports their imaginations.
Remember that children are limitless when it comes to creativity and energy. Provide spaces for quiet play and contemplation as well: a shade tree to lay under and day-dream and watch the sunlight dapple across their faces. Children need places to wonder and explore and, of course, a place to play with Mom and Dad. A hot tip from your local Landscape Architect: Remember to plant flexible and resilient plantings that can stand the occasional trampling. “Kid magnets” are great for multi-family entertaining. Gardening Quote of the month: “We have not inherited the earth from our parents; we have borrowed it from our children.”--L. Brown, 1981 If you would like me to write on any particular subject, email your ideas to jmontgomery@jm-la. com or for design ideas visit www.jm-la.com or www.houzz.com/pro/jmla/ john-montgomery-landscape-architects. Advertorial
PAGE 20 • ALAMO TODAY • JANUARY 2017
2016 ANNUAL BOARD REPORT ALAMO MUNICIPAL ADVISORY COUNCIL
The Alamo Municipal Advisory Council (MAC) meets the first Tuesday of the month, at 6pm at the Alamo Women’s Club located at 1401 Danville Boulevard, Alamo. MAC Chair is Anne Struthers. Vice Chair is Susan Rock. Members are Mike McDonald, Ed Best, Steve Mick, Susan Rock, Jill Winspear, Aron DeFerrari alternate (voting member only when another member is absent), and Rachel Etherington, Youth Member. The MAC County staff support member is Jennifer Quallick. Subcommittees of the MAC are: Parks and Recreation – David Barclay, Ed Best, Steve Mick, AOB Subcommittee for downtown – David Barclay, Mike McDonald, Susan Rock, Anne Struthers, AOB Subcommittee for Schools – Ed Best, Steve Mick, Susan Rock, Land Use – David Barclay, Michael McDonald, Alamo Police Services Advisory Committee – Jill Winspear, Hap Magee Dog Park – Mike McDonald The MAC budget is $3,000 per year which is entirely used for meeting location rental space at Alamo Women’s Club.
MAC ACTIVITIES AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS FOR 2016
• Reviewed and provided recommendations for 32 land use applications in Alamo. ~ Provided forum for public comment; received comments from hundreds of residents ~ Members Barclay and McDonald conducted field reviews • Reviewed and provided recommendations regarding proposed budgets for CSA R-7A, and Landscape and Lighting Zones 36, 45, and 54 • Participated on the Alamo Police Services Committee (APSAC). Collaborated on issues of importance to Alamo residents, including school traffic safety and speed monitors • Monitored and reviewed construction developments at the new SRVFD Station at Miranda and Stone Valley Road. Construction continues with anticipated completion date of February 2017 • Provided oversight and recommendations regarding CSA R-7A recreational programming (four concerts in the park, and two movie nights) • Reviewed and provided recommendations for a YMCA Recreation Program that serves Alamo residents ~ The YMCA program will cease in January 2017. The YMCA decided to focus on their core mission and did not renew their participation • Continued to follow up and monitor Public Works progress regarding the approved bocce ball court project at Livorna Park. The East Bay Regional Park District approved funding for the project using Measure WW funds. The project is fully funded and waiting for final plans and implementation, scheduled to occur in 2016/2017 • Continued development and support for the new Hemme Station Park located at the corner of Hemme Way and Danville Boulevard adjacent to the Iron Horse Trail. Public Works has scheduled the project for construction during the winter of 2016 • Continued relationship development with the Alamo Improvement Association (AIA). AIA continues to participate in each MAC meeting. • Worked with Public Works to renew the increase of the Gann limits on CSA R7A funds, which was approved by Alamo voters in 11/2016.
WORK PLAN AND OBJECTIVES FOR 2017
• Monitor and make recommendations regarding proposed expenditures by CSA R-7A and the lighting and landscaping districts. • Proceed with a phased sidewalk improvement and tree protection program on Danville Boulevard with Zone 36 funds as available. • Continue working with Public Works in the design and implementation of the Downtown roundabout. • Continue working with Public Works in the design and implementation of Hemme Station Park. • Work with the APSAC, as needed. The MAC is supportive of the proposed ALPR camera system to help with community safety. • Continue working with Public Works to support the construction of two bocce ball courts at Livorna Park. • Continue to provide recreation programming in the form of Movie Night at Livorna Park and the Summer Concert Series at Livorna Park. • Evaluate and develop recommendations for land-use applications that come before the MAC to ensure compliance with code requirements, consistency with the community of Alamo, and listen to public concerns and opinions on such matters.
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
CINEMA CLASSICS
FATHER’S LITTLE DIVIDEND By Peggy Horn
This month’s Cinema Classic recommendation is a sequel to Father of the Bride. It is Father’s Little Dividend, (1951) starring the same principle stars as in the last movie, Spencer Tracy, as the father, Stanley Banks, Joan Bennett as the mother, Ellie Banks, Elizabeth Taylor as their daughter, Kay Dunstan, and Don Taylor as Kay’s husband, Buckley Dunstan. Once again the movie is directed by Vincente Minnelli, and produced by Pandro S. Berman. The writers are Albert Hackett, Frances Goodrich and Edward Streeter. This movie is just as sweet, funny, and well acted as the one that preceded it. In this one Kay and Buckley are a married couple, settled in an apartment and carrying on with life. One evening they have a dinner party for their parents and they announce that they are expecting a baby! Everybody is thrilled with the idea except for Stanley. He just can’t figure out what exactly is annoying him about the prospective baby until he is slapped on the back accompanied by a hearty greeting of, “Grampa!” The ensuing movie provides the preparations being conducted for the upcoming birth, and it’s all very funny and all very real. After the baby is born there is a clash between Stanley and the baby resulting in a barrier being raised between the two personalities. Stanley keeps a respectable distance from the little baby but family intervenes. At the conclusion of the movie I will be surprised if you’re not dabbing your eyes just a little…I know I did! This movie didn’t win any awards but it is so good. The dialogue is humorous and clever and the occurrences in the film are plausible. And all this laughter and fun can be yours. Happy viewing! Musical Notes – From the same era as the movie comes,“Ella Fitzgerald Sings the Duke Ellington Songbook,” (1957). Frequently referred to as the ‘First Lady of Jazz,’ Ella Fitzgerald at the age of seventeen, decided to change her Amateur Night debut performance from dancing to singing. It was a wise move as you may hear in this songbook.
SUPPORT CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE
they can learn which of the many CSC resources best address their personal needs. Conducted by highly skilled professionals in a home-like setting, classes and gatherings are scheduled at various times of the day and evening to accommodate participants with divergent availability. The monthly calendar includes networking groups for individuals with specific types of cancer, exercise classes appropriate for patients engaged in physically draining protocols, nutrition classes that include a popular course on cooking Indian cuisine, creative expression workshops in crafts and music, and presentations on a plethora of timely topics by leading authorities in their respective fields. Short-term counseling (12-20 sessions) is also available. Chief Mission Officer Margaret Stauffer speaks with gratitude for the financial support of sponsors and donors that somehow always manages to meet CSC’s budget Volunteer Patty Koepke, once a CSC newcomer and hope that contributions will herself, enjoys welcoming members to CSC. continue to grow along with the Photo courtesy of CSC. ever increasing demand for expansion of services. Although programs are always free of charge, the professionals presenting them are compensated for their valuable time. “The power of our support is immeasurable,” Stauffer proudly acknowledges. A young adult when her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer, Margaret found no support and little information available. Now she dedicates herself to giving support and information to others facing cancer as patients as well as their family members.
SEE SUPPORT CONTINUED ON PAGE 28
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
JANUARY 2017 • ALAMO TODAY • PAGE 21
TECHNOLOGY MATTERS
By Evan Corstorphine
In recent articles I’ve written about the “Internet of Things” (IOT) and, in fact, my article last month spurred several questions from readers. It seems many of us would like to electronically check and open/close our garage doors, as one of the examples last month explained. Along these lines, there is an even more compelling need I’ve discovered, one for tracking my mailbox out on the curb. Lately we have experienced a surge in mail theft in our area. It’s brazen, and happens whether at night or in broad daylight. The likelihood of the thieves being caught is very low. As with most things, I believe the best offense is a good defense, and it is along those lines that I’ve been thinking. We need a way to monitor our mailbox, and be alerted when mail arrives or when the mailbox door is opened. We need to get to the mail before the thieves do. I searched the internet for mailbox-monitoring and remote-sensing solutions, and I was underwhelmed with what I found. On Amazon there are a couple of devices to be found under the search term “mailbox monitor.” They involve a small “sender” unit which is affixed to your mailbox’s door and activates when the sensor within the unit senses the door opening or closing. The receiver is a small intercom-sized unit with an antenna, and that is supposed to sit in your front room, perhaps on a kitchen counter or another obvious location. When your mailbox is opened, the sender gives a signal to the receiver, and a bright LED begins blinking while it emits an alert sound. The other more generic solutions I saw involved sensors that detect when something like a car or person breaks the beam. They can all be adapted, but they are closed systems and would require significant tinkering to do what I want out of them. Ten years ago I may have been excited about trying to work with these solutions, but this is 2017 and I want something that will integrate with my network, alert my iPhone, and tell me the instant that my mailbox has been
touched. My wife and I always keep our phones nearby, and we’re always waiting until late at night to get our mail. (Side note: Our mail carriers are having no fun at all right now, frequently working until 10pm to finish their routes; be nice to them!) I did find a few modern and innovative mailbox monitoring solutions, but they were all nascent efforts that the designers were attempting to fund through Kickstarter and IndieGogo. The two that interested me the most didn’t secure the necessary amount of funding by their deadline, and the efforts stopped. I’ve reached out to see if there is still any interest in moving their projects forward, but as of this writing I’m still waiting to hear back. I have a feeling that the target market for their iPhone-integrated solution, which is mainly homeowners like you and me, don’t frequent websites like Kickstarter or Indiegogo. Conversely, the people who do frequent those sites are among the least likely to need this solution, as most young people don’t own homes. These solutions were intelligent, could help neighbors work together, and gave the user much more information about their mailbox than a basic “open or closed” message. I’m convinced that if we bring one of these more modern IOT-oriented solutions to market, there would be significant interest. I can say with certainty there are a bunch of people locally who’ve been affected by this problem and who’d be first in line. Is this something that you’d be interested in buying if someone had worked out a turnkey alerting system which notified you via your smartphone? Think of this as the ‘Ring Doorbell’ or ‘Nest Thermostat’ of mailbox monitoring solutions. It’s the same basic idea, just a slightly different application. If it’s something that you’d pursue, please drop me a line at smartmailbox@pcioit.com, and I’d be happy to tally your interest and approach these designers in an attempt to motivate them forward. If you don’t ask, you don’t get. We’re doing more and more of this sort of integration work, both for commercial interests and residential customers. The “Internet of Things” is here to stay, and our experts will help you prepare your environment to implement these solutions. If you’d like to talk about your particular situation, give us a call at 925-552-7953, or email info@pcioit.com. Advertorial
Technology. Simplified. Since 2001
Residential | Commercial
COMPUTER SERVICES: PCs/Macs/Tablets/Smartphones • Upgrades • Maintenance • Networking • Data Recovery • Virus/Malware Removal • Back-up Solutions • Email/Hosted Exchange • Internet of Things IT DESIGN & IMPLEMENTATION: IT Strategy Development • Network Design • Infrastructure Assessment • Cloud Services INFRASTRUCTURE MANAGEMENT: Proactive Desktop, Server, & Network Monitoring and Management • Office Move Management • Disaster Preparedness • Monthly Service Agreements
925-552-7953 helpdesk@pcioit.com www.pcioit.com
PAGE 22 • ALAMO TODAY • JANUARY 2017
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
HOW TO CHOOSE A TRUSTEE
By Robert J. Silverman, Esq.
The “Good Old Days” are now!
Rates are better than 50-60 years ago (see proof above)
The Alison Company Nationwide Financing on Commercial Property Douglas Scott DRE#00859191 | Kevin Corstorphine DRE#01944908
805.845.5200
Dscott@alisonmortgage.com | Kevin@alisonmortgage.com
www.alisonmortgage.com
BELLANDI CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE The horse also got red, white, and blue bunting for Memorial Day and Fourth of July, and a variety of wreaths and balloons for other holidays. A measure of John’s popularity in Alamo came in January 1991 when a fire sparked by a space heater on a bitterly cold day in the open air store completely destroyed the business. According to a 2006 interview with John, he was tempted to close up shop, but then Alamo and Danville customers let him know how much they wanted the store to continue. More than 200 volunteers showed up to clean up the ash and rebuild the store. Customers said John referred to his staff of six as “the boys.” Legions of local youth found a job and a home at Alamo Hay and Grain, often dressing in Western gear. One of those boys was Joe Hess, who grew up in Alamo and started working at the store his senior year in high school. Joe noted John gave his staff lifelong lessons. “John always made us feel welcome and important to the store. He gave us the confidence we needed to succeed in life, and taught us how to treat customers with respect and integrity. He has had a large impact in life, as many of us who worked for him have gone on to success at our own companies or in service as police officers and professionals.” According to numerous social media postings on the store’s unofficial Facebook page and on the page titled “Remembering Alamo,” John was a frequent supporter of charities, especially those involving animals. Danville resident Melissa Caplan Austin, founder of Horses Healing Hearts, a charity which rescues horses and uses horse therapy to help people heal from trauma, remembered John’s support on Facebook: “John, you were a gift, making all of us who entered Alamo Hay and Grain feel special. You will be missed with your colorful personality, polo shirts, and that voice.” John was a pigeon breeder, and his homing pigeons were housed behind the store. He raised pigeons for more than 60 years, since he was a boy growing up in San Jose. No services were held at John’s request. John Bellandi, know that you have left a large hole in Alamo’s heart. You will be missed.
Establishing a Revocable Living Trust for yourself and your family is worthwhile for many reasons I’ve written about previously, including avoiding probate, maintaining privacy, controlling when and how young loved ones inherit assets, mitigating estate tax, etc. Perhaps the most compelling reason is to create a “financial succession” vehicle optimized to ensure that your assets are handled the way you want, both during your life and after you’re gone. A Revocable Living Trust (“Trust”) has three “stakeholders”; 1) the Settlor [aka “grantor” or “trustor”] – the person(s) who establishes the trust; 2) the Beneficiaries – the people who benefit from the trust; and 3) the Trustee – the person who manages the trust. As long as a Settlor is willing and able, he or she (or if a married couple, they) typically serves as initial Trustee(s). A much more difficult but important question is who should serve as Successor Trustee(s) and thus manage the Trust – the bulk of the Settlor’s financial affairs - when the Settlor(s) die or become unwilling or unable to do so. This has many implications. It should be thought through carefully and discussed in detail with your estate planning attorney. One should also consider the pros and cons of naming the chosen Successor Trustees in other critical estate planning documents, such as your Durable Power of Attorney and Will. First, it’s critical to step back and ask what the appropriate criteria is for choosing a Successor Trustee. It depends on all relevant facts and circumstances, including the makeup of the Settlor’s family, loved ones, assets, and objectives. Certain criteria is intuitive, including trustworthiness. Aside from whether or not a candidate is trustworthy, is he or she responsible - the type of person who gets up in the morning and takes care of business? Geographic proximity can be a factor but tends to be less important now because of technology advances that facilitate the management of assets from afar. Emotional character and personality should be assessed since one or more trust Beneficiaries (who are often related to the Successor Trustee) may try to manipulate the Successor Trustee. For example, a Beneficiary may request (and/or persuade) the Successor Trustee to exercise certain Trustee-authorized discretion in a manner that may not ultimately be in the best interest of that Beneficiary. Much too frequently, a quick, “painless” decision is made by summarily nominating one’s spouse, oldest child, or all children as Co-Trustees. Such haste may lead to problems, if not disaster. Choosing Co-Trustees, even when they consist of all of your children, is often problematic because of the logistics or because of the required compatibility and cooperation involved in making Trust decisions (e.g. how, when or whether to sell or divide certain cherished assets). Family relationships can be devastated as a result of a Settlor not taking ample care in deciding who is truly best suited to serve as Successor Trustee. This decision is often more sensitive and difficult when married Settlors have a blended family. Sometimes, neither relatives nor friends are the best candidates. Many financial institutions have reputable trust departments, with capable, seasoned trust officers who can potentially carry out a Settlor’s wishes most objectively, safely and effectively. Another alternative is to choose an experienced, “private fiduciary” – an individual who is properly licensed and bonded, whose job entails serving as Successor Trustee for many different family trusts. As with many important decisions, your trusted professional advisors should help you make this decision. Certainly your estate planning attorney should be directly involved. If you wish, other advisors, such as your CPA and/or investment manager, can sometimes provide helpful counsel. * Estate Planning * Trust Administration & Probate * Real Estate * Business Please contact the author to request a complimentary: i) “Estate Planning Primer”; ii) Real Estate titling brochure; iii) introductory meeting. Mr. Silverman is an attorney with R. Silverman Law Group which is located at 1855 Olympic Blvd., Suite 125, Walnut Creek, CA 94596; (925) 705-4474; rsilverman@rsilvermanlaw.com. This article is intended to provide information of a general nature, and should not be relied upon as legal, tax and/ or business advice. Readers should obtain specific advice from their own, qualified professional advisors. Advertorial
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
JANUARY 2017 • ALAMO TODAY • PAGE 23
NAVIGATING THE TOP FIVE RETIREMENT RISKS
Presented by Peter T. Waldron
In conjunction with Sagemark Consulting, a division of Lincoln Financial Advisors, a registered investment advisor
Longer lives and better health translate into longer retirements and new concepts of what retirement should be. Many of today’s retirees view retirement as a time to shift gears but not necessarily to slow down. Retirees keep their skills sharp in new job roles or by starting businesses. They continue learning new skills by going back to school as both teachers and students. Some choose to serve on boards of directors or to pursue creative and artistic passions. However you define retirement for yourself, the bottom line is that you want to have enough money to live your life without constantly worrying that you’ll run out. It certainly pays to be prepared and to stay on plan.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
A successful retirement plan begins, of course, with making smart savings and investing decisions long before you contemplate retiring. But of equal or even greater importance is how you manage your money after you’ve left your primary career and begin to turn to your investments to provide the income that supports your lifestyle. To boost the chances that your savings will let you live comfortably in retirement, there are five primary areas of risk that you need to address: Timing and Withdrawals: The amount you withdraw from your retirement portfolio and when you do so are two of the main determinants of how long the portfolio will last. For example, taking large withdrawals during bear markets such as those in 1973–1974 or 2000–2002 makes it hard for a portfolio to recover and grow. To the degree possible, you want to minimize drawing on your capital in a weak market since you’ll have less capital for the rebound. Your annual withdrawal rate should be smaller than your average annual return less inflation. Of course, to be conservative, you could bring it down even further, and your assets may continue to grow positively even though you’re making withdrawals. • Market Volatility: Related to the first risk, you need to position your portfolio to withstand inevitable swings in the market, and the way to do this is through diversification and asset allocation – holding a combination of stocks, bonds, cash and alternative investments that matches your risk profile. Returns on these investments should be noncorrelated, so that when one area is down, another area is up. In retirement, you need diversification to perform a balancing act of having enough growth-oriented investments to help achieve acceptable long-term returns and bonds and other fixed income securities to provide steady income. Annuities could also make sense to provide at least a portion of your retirement income. • Longevity: The good news is that you have a good chance of living to a ripe old age, but the risk here is essentially that you could outlive your assets. For a married couple who both reach age 65, there is more than a 60% chance that one of them will live to age 90 (Source: Ibbotson Associates, 2006). That means that if you retire at 65, you may need to plan for 25 years or more in retirement. • Taxes and Inflation: Don’t underestimate the ability of inflation to destroy spending power. Over the past 25 years, during which inflation has been fairly tame, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) – the cost of a basket of goods and services determined by the Bureau of Labor Statistics – has more than doubled. If inflation accelerates to 6%, prices would double in about 12 years. • Health Care Costs: The CPI is often not the most accurate measure of your personal inflation rate, since you may spend disproportionately on health care as you age. These costs have traditionally run at double or triple the overall rate of inflation and are not under control. In addition, consider long-term care insurance as a way to help pay for some of the potential nursing home costs as you get older.
WRITING THE NEXT CHAPTER
Thanks to a combination of advances in medical technology and better lifestyle choices, Americans are living longer and more active lives. Nonagenarians (people between the ages of 90-100) are becoming commonplace. Enjoy your retirement years – however you decide to spend them. Spending some time with your financial advisor today can help you enjoy true financial security tomorrow. Please contact Peter Waldron to schedule a complimentary review of your financial situation. Call 925-659-0383 or email peter.waldron@lfg.com. Peter T. Waldron: California Insurance License #0E47827.Peter T. Waldron is a registered representative and investment advisor representative of Lincoln Financial Advisors Corp., a broker-dealer (member SIPC) and registered investment advisor, offering insurance through Lincoln Marketing and Insurance Agency, LLC and Lincoln Associates Insurance Agency, Inc. and other fine companies. This information should not be construed as legal or tax advice. You may want to consult a tax advisor regarding this information as it relates to your personal circumstances. The content of this material was created by Lincoln Financial Advisors for its representatives and their clients. 3201 Danville Blvd. Ste 190 Alamo, Ca 94507 925-786-7686 CRN201305-2080403 Advertorial
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
PAGE 24 • ALAMO TODAY • JANUARY 2017
By Roger Smith, Alamo Improvement Association WHAT IS SMART911?
Smart911 is free and allows you to provide valuable information about yourself and your family to 9-1-1 call takers and first responders in the event of an emergency. If a disaster strikes, first responders can have vital information such as home access, utility shut off, bedroom locations, and pet information. At a time when seconds count, being able to provide 9-1-1 with all details that could impact response the second an emergency call is placed could be the difference between life and death. Now is the time to make a New Year’s Resolution and create a Safety Profile for your family at www.smart911.com. Family Communication Plan: Due to damage and heavy phone traffic, it is often easier to communicate with someone that is out of state during an emergency. Therefore, choose a long-distance relative or close friend that your family can all contact if separated. Teach your household members to use this number as a form of communicating and letting one know that the other is safe. Lastly, don’t forget to talk with your out-of-state contact to make them aware of the plan and ensure they are comfortable with this role. Family Meeting Place: Designate a meeting place that your family will immediately go to when disaster strikes. The place you choose should be outside your neighborhood in the event that it is not safe to return to your home or stay in its surrounding areas. Each family member should be capable of reciting the address of the meeting place or locating it on their own if need be. Safety Bracelets: If you live in a disaster-prone area, consider making “safety bracelets” for each member of the family. The bracelets have customized infor-
mation engraved on the inside including a first and last name, home address, emergency contacts, severe allergies or health restrictions, and a long distance phone number to a close friend or relative. Request that everyone wear the bracelet at all times, especially if your children are young or living with a disability. Disabilities or Traveling Restrictions: A family with disabilities or traveling restrictions should start by connecting with the local police department and becoming familiar with the emergency evacuation plan. Using this information, develop a back-up strategy with close friends and neighbors in the event that the disabled or restricted family member is alone during a disastrous situation. Lastly, to ensure that emergency responders will have the information they need to properly assist your family, be sure to include details describing the health condition of each household member on your Smart911 Safety Profile. Pet Safety: When a rapid onset disaster hits home, no animal should be left behind. However, most emergency shelters do not permit animals due to health regulations. Knowing this, research the various animal shelters, veterinary offices, or even close friends in your area that are willing to house your pet or working animal during an emergency. Lastly, be sure to include your pet in the ‘family survival kit’ preparation. Stock enough food and water for your animal(s) to last at least 72 hours.
ALAMO FARMERS MARKET
There’s something to be said for slowly simmering a homemade pot of soup over the stove until the flavors meld together perfectly. From vegetable barley soup to hearty lentil soup, soups of all kinds can really hit the spot on a cold day or night. If the soup or stew is high in fiber (from beans, vegetables, and/or whole grains), it will also help add bulk to your meal and thus help you feel full longer. After the holidays and during the winter months, one of the best ways to lose those extra pounds is to consider “light” dinner options when the weather is cold by preparing and having soup or stew! For an excellent source for fresh vegetables for your soups and stews, visit the Alamo Farmer’s Market. They have the best and the freshest vegetables full of taste, vitamins, nutrition, and fiber that everyone needs in their diet. Make a visit to the Alamo Farmer’s Market part of your Sunday and get your produce for the week. There is free and easy parking and friendly vendors .The Alamo Farmer’s Market is open 9AM -2PM every Sunday.
AIA MEMBERSHIP
Alamo is a special community that all of our residents can be justifiably proud to call “Home.” Established in 1955, AIA’s mission is to “preserve the semi-rural character of Alamo,” the place we love to live. Consider becoming a member of our 501(c)(3) non-profit organization to preserve Alamo’s unique beauty and status. Please visit www.AlamoCA.org for information on AIA, articles of interest to Alamo residents, membership forms, and more. Now is the time to renew or become a new member of AIA.
ALAMO POLICE SERVICES ADVISORY COMMITTEE
NOVEMBER 2016 REPORTS
Alamo police responded to 29 crimes which included battery, burglary, disturbance, drugs, grand theft, interfering with public officer, juvenile runaway, outside assist, petty theft, possession of destructive device, property found, identity theft, vandalism, and warrant arrest. Lic# 1100014354; Bay Area Entertainment
GROUP HELPS PEOPLE COPE WITH DEATH OF PETS
When you lose your pet, you often feel like a part of you is lost. The death of your beloved animal companion is one of the most difficult losses you may ever feel. This loss is sometimes made more painful by society’s seeming lack of support for pet grief. Hospice of the East Bay (HoEB) and the Tony La Russa Animal Rescue Foundation is offering a support group where participants can share memories and feelings and talk to others who truly understand and care. Meetings will be held the second Tuesday of each month from 5:30-7PM at the Tony La Russa Animal Rescue Foundation, 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek. For further information and/or to register, please call Bereavement Services at HoEB (925) 887-5681. HoEB Bereavement Services are provided free of charge to all community members in need. However, donations are greatly appreciated.
REPORTED INCIDENTS
• Via Del Gato, Residential Burglary: A vacant home had been burglarized. Party supplies and alcohol were stolen from the home. The responsible(s) are currently unknown. The scene was processed for evidence, and the case is currently ongoing. • Hagen Oaks Dr., Residential Burglary: A home was burglarized. The responsible(s) entered through an unsecure door in the middle of the day. The responsible(s) are currently unknown. The scene was processed for evidence, and the case is currently ongoing. • Cross Rd., Residential Burglary: A home was burglarized. The responsible smashed in a sliding glass door to gain entrance and stole a camera. The suspect and suspects vehicle were caught on the victim’s security camera. The video from the security camera is currently being used in an attempt to identify the responsible. • Carriage Ct, Residential Burglary: A home had been burglarized. The responsible(s) forced the front door open to gain entrance into the home. A safe was busted open and jewelry was stolen. The scene was processed for evidence, and the case is currently ongoing.
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
PREGNANCY MATTERS
VACCINES WHILE PREGNANT By Dr. Theresa Gipps
After growing up in Walnut Creek and completing my Ob/Gyn residency at UCSF-Fresno, I joined Dr. Timothy Leach’s medical practice in 2015. To complement Dr. Leach’s monthly ‘Menopause Matters’ column, I plan to review common questions I hear from pregnant women, along with other aspects of women’s health care. Vaccines have been a hot topic in recent years. In the United States we have seen outbreaks of several diseases which we have vaccines for including whooping cough, measles, and mumps. Pregnant women every year ask their doctors, “Should I really get a vaccine now?” and “Why?” Though most vaccines are not given to pregnant women, two vaccines are recommended during pregnancy: the influenza (flu) and Tdap vaccines. Below I will review vaccine basics and why the vaccines are recommended in pregnancy.
A QUICK REVIEW: VACCINES
Vaccines are made from weakened or inactivated parts of bacteria and viruses which cause infectious disease. Vaccines are most effective when given before exposure to a disease, and they can either prevent the disease entirely or result in a less severe form of the disease. Vaccines have helped slow or stop diseases like smallpox, polio, and chicken pox. Scientists today are working to develop vaccines against other diseases like HIV and Zika. When a vaccine is given, it causes the body to create protective proteins called antibodies. These antibodies are ready to fight off that disease if you should ever be exposed again. It takes about two weeks after getting a vaccine before your body has produced enough antibodies to protect from infection.
TDAP VACCINE
Tdap is a vaccine against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough). Whooping cough is a respiratory infection which may cause only mild symptoms, but it can be especially dangerous for newborns and young children. Most adults received a whooping cough vaccine in childhood, but the protection provided decreases over time. So, many adults may no longer be immune. Children receive their first whooping cough vaccine at eight weeks old. Before then they only have protection if they receive protective antibodies from their mother. California had 4,750 cases of whooping cough in 2015, and ⅔ of the patients hospitalized were infants younger than four months. Every year as many as 20 babies die in the US from whooping cough. When a woman receives a Tdap vaccine during pregnancy, her body increases production of protective antibodies. These antibodies are transmitted to the baby until delivery and can be passed to her newborn when breastfeeding. If a woman gets the Tdap vaccine during her third trimester (27-36 weeks) her baby’s risk of whooping cough in the first eight weeks of life is decreased by at least 85%. A Tdap vaccine is recommended for every pregnancy.
THE FLU VACCINE
Flu season lasts from October to May each year, and every year a new flu vaccine is produced. Influenza is usually a mild respiratory disease which may cause cough, fever, body aches and occasionally vomiting or diarrhea. Pregnant women are at higher risk than most other adults of serious complications from the flu. Complications include pneumonia, respiratory failure requiring breathing support (intubation), and even death. During the H1N1 influenza epidemic, 12% of all US deaths during pregnancy were caused by the flu. Fever caused by the flu in early pregnancy increases the risk of birth defects. Pregnant women with the flu are at increased risk of early delivery. Large studies have shown no increased risk of birth defects or other problems in babies born to women who received the flu vaccine during pregnancy. And just like with the Tdap vaccine, women who receive the flu vaccine during pregnancy will pass some protection onto their babies after delivery.
FINAL NOTES
While vaccines are generally safe, anyone with a previous serious allergic reaction to a vaccine or its components should not be vaccinated. The nasal flu vaccine (spray) is a live virus and should not be given during pregnancy. Dr Leach’s column “Menopause Matters” will return next month. We are both excited to keep our readers up to date on important topics in women’s health care. If you are interested in a particular topic, we would like to know! You can email us at leachobgyn@gmail.com. Also, please visit our NEW website www.leachobgyn.com for articles and other important health education information. Our office is located at 110 Tampico, Advertorial Suite 210 in Walnut Creek. Please call us at 925-935-6952.
JANUARY 2017 • ALAMO TODAY • PAGE 25
STIMULATING HOPE
BREAK THROUGH THE BLEAK CYCLE OF DEPRESSION By William Shryer, LCSW, DCSW Clinical Director, Diablo Behavioral Healthcare and Blackhawk TMS
Depression is a subject that is rarely if at all talked about. We have associated shame and powerlessness with this subject and often have difficulty knowing how and what to do if we, or someone close to us, becomes depressed. Some of the symptoms of biochemical depression are feeling long-lasting sadness, sleeplessness, a change in appetite or weight, or even difficulty in following a daily routine. These feelings are sometimes accompanied by feelings of hopelessness and inadequacy. These are symptoms of biochemical depression that is treatable. Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is one of the most acute, widespread pathologies of the 21st century, affecting nearly 15 million American adults annually. Patients suffering from MDD are traditionally treated with antidepressants and/ or psychotherapy. However, too often, antidepressants and other treatments fail to bring the hoped-for relief to patients. The marriage of Silicon Valley technology and forward thinking medicine has resulted in the technology known as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). This novel and successful treatment for depression has been used for years in Europe but sadly, only recently here in the U.S. Brainsway is one of the most advanced companies providing this technology based out of Israel, and Blackhawk TMS located in Danville is the first to bring this exciting technology to the Tri-Valley. Brainsway can help you break through the sadness and start anew with a safe, non-invasive, and effective treatment for depression. The treatment has been shown to bring significant improvement to patients suffering from depression and anxiety, including those who have tried several types of antidepressants to no avail. Brainsway's treatment for depression has been cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2013. The treatment has no systemic side effects and is highly convenient, requiring only 20-minute daily sessions over a period of 4-6 weeks. Moreover, the treatment is prescribed and supervised by a licensed psychiatrist in an outpatient facility.
HAVE ANTIDEPRESSANTS FAILED TO WORK?
Brainsway’s treatment launches a new era in the treatment of MDD. It has many unique advantages over other treatments for depression. Antidepressants, for instance, fail to provide an adequate solution for many patients, and they often entail harsh side effects, ranging from nausea, insomnia, and anxiety to weight gain and sexual dysfunction. This can lead many patients to neglect their medication regime, believing that living with depression is better than living with the side effects. Other alternatives, such as electro-convulsive therapy (ECT), require anesthesia and is associated with memory loss. To be clear, TMS is not ECT, and it does not induce electric current into the brain.
BRAINSWAY’S DEEP TMS – BRIEF, EFFECTIVE TREATMENT
The Brainsway Deep TMS is a non-invasive treatment which stimulates the brain region responsible for depression to bring significant improvement to patients. It is an outpatient procedure which does not require hospitalization or anesthesia, and it entails no memory loss or systemic side effects. The treatment generates brief magnetic fields at similar amplitude to that used in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system. These magnetic fields briefly stimulate the targeted brain area and improve depressive symptoms. After each session, patients can return home independently and follow through their normal daily routine, including going to work. If you or someone you know would like more information on this amazing treatment technology, just call Blackhawk TMS and we will take the time to explain this in greater detail. We are located at 4185 Blackhawk Plaza Circle Suite 210 in Danville. Please call us at 925-648-2650. Advertorial
Do you have a story idea? Contact us at 925.405.6397 or Editor@YourMonthlyPaper.com.
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
PAGE 26 • ALAMO TODAY • JANUARY 2017
YOUR PERSONAL NUTRITIONIST
LOSE EXCESS WEIGHT FOREVER THIS NEW YEAR THE HEALTHY WAY By Linda Michaelis RD, MS
Happy New Year! Are you using this time as a motivator to drop the weight you have been struggling to lose all year round? You have the best of intentions to lose weight as the New Year begins, but somehow, life happens and you often find yourself going back to your old ways. Try a different approach for this New Year. Instead of making a diet and weight loss resolution, focus on improving your health by making weekly nutrition and fitness goals. Decide what goal you will work towards for the coming week. Log your progress and check in with yourself at week’s end. This is the process that I follow when I work with my clients. Don’t look at this year’s resolution as a temporary change; look at it as a lifestyle change. Making too many changes at once can cause you to burn out before the end of January and cause you to break your commitment.
TM TM TM
DONATE DONATE DONATE YOUR YOUR YOUR CAR! CAR! CAR!
Cars • Boats Boats •• Real RealEstate Estate Cars•• Trucks Trucks • • Vans Vans • Live Operators on hand 7 days a week Cars • Live Trucks • Vans • Boats Operators on hand 7 days•aReal week Estate deduction transfer documents handled Tax deduction • • All All transfer documents handled LiveTax Operators on hand 7 days a week Free pick-up • Running or not in most cases Free pick-up • Running or not in most cases
Tax deduction • All transfer documents handled 888-694-5250 Free pick-up888-694-5250 • Running or not in most cases www.thefallenheroes.org www.thefallenheroes.org
888-694-5250
CARING HANDS
www.thefallenheroes.org REACHING OUT TO SENIORS ONE AT A TIME
Life at any age involves challenges, but these intensify as we age. The first concern may be that it becomes too difficult to drive to the doctor, the grocery, or to just get a haircut. Support systems change, neighbors and friends may not help as expected, and loneliness may put a damper on daily routine. Caring Hands volunteers offer friendship which makes an extraordinary difference in the quality of life for many of our seniors. Caring Hands Volunteer Caregivers Program, a collaborative community outreach program between John Muir Health, social service agencies, congregations of various faiths and the communityat-large, creates finely-tuned one-on-one matches. The Caring Hands Program is dedicated to helping aging adults in Contra Costa County remain independent as long as safely possible. Isolation and loneliness shorten lives and may make health problems worse. If making time to volunteer is on your to-do list, consider joining Caring Hands as a caregiver or even as an occasional driver. Enriching matches are created; loving friendships and deep relationships are formed. Care receivers treasure a friendly visit, a walk in the park or other social outing. Reading mail, FallenHeroes2x3_11-27-13.indd letter writing, or providing respite care to give a break to a family member are FallenHeroes2x3_11-27-13.indd thoughtful services which can make a big difference to a frail or isolated senior. Since so many older adults need transportation to doctor’s appointments or stores, the best volunteer for Caring Hands is someone who is available once a week for 1-3 hours on a weekday, and who can provide transportation. Volunteers receive ongoing education, support and recognition of their efforts. Perhaps you can be that friend who gives a waiting senior hope and help. For a volunteer application or for more information about Caring Hands please contact Stacy Appel, Volunteer Coordinator, at (925) 952-2999.
Therefore, instead of changing your entire way of living all at once, try making these small changes everyday. Try these nutrition and fitness goals, and you’ll see how great you feel. 1. Increase your intake of fruits and vegetables. Every day have two cups of veggies. Try adding veggies to your egg white omelet, and have a salad or soup with veggies at lunch. Also, have a piece of fruit at lunch and one after dinner. The new recommendation is that half your plate should be veggies and fruit, and the other half should be a ½ cup of grains and 4 ounces protein. 2. Portion control. Work your way to smaller portions, and this will help control your calories. If you use a big dinner plate and usually fill the whole plate, try using a smaller size plate. You will always eat more when you have a pile of food on your plate. 3. Limit the sweets. You do not have to avoid sweets. The key is moderation. If you enjoy dessert and sweets several times a day, make a goal for yourself to limit sweets to either once per day, or a few times a week. I teach my clients to have their sweets after a meal instead of randomly during the day which will prevent cravings for sweets. 4. Swap out the soda and juice. These beverages are loaded with sugar and contribute to your daily calories. And let’s be honest, most people don’t only drink a can of soda or juice a day. Imagine how many extra pounds in one year are contributed from soda alone. I show my clients many popular beverages that have no calories. 5. Begin a walking program. Commit to a daily walk, first thing in the morning or after dinner. I teach my clients about interval training which shocks the metabolism and causes us to burn calories much faster. 6. Schedule your workouts. Just like you schedule a doctor’s appointment or a lunch date with a friend, schedule your workout on the calendar, and make it a part of your routine five times a week. I teach my clients how to set up their meal plan based on their exercise schedule for the day. 7. Make sure you are taking care of your basic needs such as eating and sleeping. It will then be easier to listen to what your body needs in terms of food and exercise. When my client is having a problem with overeating, I often see it is because they have not gotten enough sleep or are overwhelmed with family and work and then use food to get them through these stressful times. 8. Practice mindful eating. Since you have vowed not to diet this year, practice being mindful when you are eating. Listen for your hunger and fullness signals, and respond appropriately. Don’t eat when you are not hungry, yet don’t let yourself get to the ravenous point either. When eating, stop midway and ask yourself if you are still hungry. If not, stop and save the rest of your meal for another time. I take a lot of time to practice this technique with my clients. Good news! Health insurance including Aetna, ABMG, Blue Cross and Blue Shield, Health Net, Hill Physicians, Sutter, and other major companies will pay for nutritional counseling! Call me at (925) 855-0150 about your nutritional concerns or email me at Lifeweight1@gmail.com. Visit my website at www.LindaRD.com for Advertorial past articles in my blog section and nutrition tips.
Lic# 1100014354; Bay Area Entertainment
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
GASTROESOPHAGEAL REFLUX DISEASE (GERD)
By Dr. Irene J. Lo, MD, FACS
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), also known as acid reflux, is a condition where stomach contents come back up into the esophagus, resulting in a variety of problems. The classic is heartburn, but symptoms can include acidic taste in the mouth, cough, chest pain, breathing issues, nausea, intolerance of certain foods, pain after eating, bloating, belching, flatulence, hiccups, hoarseness, and sore throat. In the United States, GERD affects more than 40% of the population at least once per month, 20% once per week, and 7% daily. Medical treatment of GERD results in costs of at least $6 billion per year. GERD is caused by a weak lower esophageal sphincter (LES), the junction between the esophagus and the stomach. Because of its weakness, the LES is unable to close properly, and, as a result, stomach contents are able to reflux back into the esophagus. Certain risk factors are associated with the development of GERD including obesity, pregnancy, smoking, hiatal hernia, and advanced age. It can be worsened by drinking certain beverages such as alcohol, carbonated drinks, coffee, or tea; or by eating certain foods, such as citrus, tomato, chocolate, mint, garlic, onions, spicy foods, or fatty foods. Some medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen, certain muscle relaxers, or certain blood pressure medications can also provoke symptoms. GERD can also be associated with various complications. Patients can develop chronic cough, asthma, laryngitis, and dental erosions. Over time, due to exposure to stomach acid, esophagitis, a painful inflammation of the esophagus, can also develop. This can lead to bleeding, scarring, or ulcers. In addition, a condition known as Barrett’s esophagus can affect about 1% of GERD patients. Barrett’s esophagus occurs when cells in the lower esophagus become damaged and change in character and composition. This leads to an increased risk of developing esophageal cancer. If you are concerned that you may have GERD, please consult your primary care physician who can order tests and diagnose the problem. For those whose symptoms do not improve with simple measures, further testing may be necessary in order to confirm a diagnosis of GERD. These tests include esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), upper gastrointestinal series (x-rays taken while contract liquid is swallowed), esophageal pH monitoring (a small probe placed to measure acidity), or esophageal manometry (probe to check pressure of peristalsis). Treatment of GERD can include lifestyle changes, dietary modification, medical management, and surgical intervention. Patients with GERD are encouraged to eat smaller meals more frequently throughout the day, quit smoking, put blocks under the head of their bed to raise their head, avoid eating 3-4 hours before lying down, avoid wearing tight clothes or tight belts, and lose weight. Medications currently being used to treat GERD include H2 blockers and proton pump inhibitors. Some of these medications should not be used long-term since they are associated with osteoporosis (weakening of the bones) and other side effects. Surgical intervention, also known as anti-reflux surgery, can be performed using an open, laparoscopic, or robotic technique. There are a variety of new surgical approaches to treating reflux. If you have GERD, schedule an appointment with your doctor and ask about your treatment options. Dr. Irene Lo is a Board Certified General Surgeon who has completed a fellowship in Advanced Minimally Invasive and Bariatric Surgery, is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, and is part of the 680Bariatrics Team at Walnut Creek Surgical Associates, with offices in Walnut Creek, San Ramon, and Concord. Call (925) 933-0984 to schedule an Advertorial appointment or find her on www.wcsurgeons.com.
To advertise call 925.405.6397
JANUARY 2017 • ALAMO TODAY • PAGE 27
POPLAR SPECTACLES OPTOMETRY LOCATED IN THE SAFEWAY PLAZA
Comprehensive Dilated Eye Exams Cataract Evaluation, Macular Degeneration, Diabetic Retinopathy, Glaucoma Evaluations
Contact Lens Exams Daily, bi-weekly, monthly, colored
Prescription Glasses and Sunglasses In many cases, we are able to make your glasses in our office with our On-Site Lab
Adult & pediatric patients welcomed
OPEN MONDAY TO SATURDAY
Most vision insurance plans accepted
Monday -Thursday: 9am-6pm Friday - Saturday: 9am-4pm
(925) 202-2846 We invite you into our conveniently located office next to Peet’s Coffee & Katrina Rozelle
To learn more about our office visit WWW.POPLARSPECS.COM
CANCER SUPPORT COMMUNITY
The following classes are held at the Cancer Support Community, 3276 McNutt Avenue in Walnut Creek. Classes are free. For more information and reservations, please call (925) 933-0107. KNOW YOUR RIGHTS ~ Tuesday, January 17, 6-8 PM ~ With Michele Magar, Esq. You have civil rights as a cancer survivor. Learn how to avoid discrimination based on your cancer status in employment, housing, government services, and public places. Cancer survivors are protected from discrimination under both state and federal law when they are in treatment as well as in remission, so this workshop is relevant to anyone who’s ever received a cancer diagnosis, even if they’ve been in remission for years. Michele is a cancer survivor and civil rights lawyer focused on preventing discrimination on the basis of disability. For cancer patients and caregivers. RETURN TO WELLNESS SERIES ~ Mondays, February 6 - April 3, 7-9PM ~ Don’t miss this once a year special eight week series focused on survivorship practices that enhance quality of life and help to decrease risk of recurrence for people who have completed treatment. The structure includes group support to manage the emotional aspects of survivorship and changes in relationships. Two presentations on nutrition address how diet can impact recovery and survivorship. Three sessions are devoted to increasing physical activity and regaining strength. Healthy snacks will be provided. For those who have completed cancer treatment.
SEARCH AND RESCUE
The Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue Team needs volunteer members to respond to missing person incidents, disasters, and other critical incidents. Team members are on call 24/7 year-round. The program provides required training; including wilderness traveling, first aid, map and compass usage, tracking disaster response, and search skills; and may also include special training for canine, equestrian, technical, mountain bike, or other rescue skills. For information and applications, visit www.contracostasar.org or call (925) 646-4461.
PAGE 28 • ALAMO TODAY • JANUARY 2017
STEP BACK
By Michelle Brown
It’s the New Year! The air is ripe with change, and everyone is setting resolutions. From working out, to eating right, to saving money, to learning a new language, it’s a time to reflect upon life and set new goals. However, change can be a tricky thing to sustain. There’s a reason why most people give up on their resolutions. Patience gets lost, effort wains, enthusiasm dims, and before you know it, February is here and that gym membership hasn’t been used in three weeks. Much like everything that is meaningful, change takes time. Stating we want a change is a great start, but where do we go from there? Maybe we take a step back... The process of change requires thought, planning, and effort. Taking a step back to realize what is working well in life is the next best move. Acknowledge those things in your life that are going in a positive direction, and write them down. Your loving family, your beautiful home, your dog... all the things in your life you really love should be written down first, before you decide what to change. Why are these things going well for you? Why do they mean so much to you? Answer these questions, too. This important piece of the puzzle is all too often overlooked. There is a reason that things go well, and it is usually because we have taken the time and effort to cultivate them. We have given them the gift of our consistent energy. Much like creating the outline of a puzzle before you fill in the middle, this small step back gives you a better idea of which direction to go next. Now that you have an idea of what is going well, think about what you’d like to change. Weight? Health? Eating habits? Relationships? Those are broad subjects. Be specific. Why do you want to lose weight and/or eat better? What is it about your relationship that you want to work on? Write these things down next. What you will likely find is that time management is going to be your next main objective. Time is the most prominent excuse for not accomplishing a goal. If lack
SUPPORT CONTINUED FROM PAGE 20
www.yourmonthlypaper.com of time resonates with you, then you need to weigh your goal against what other things you are spending time on. At some point, we must choose what we are willing to sacrifice in order to realize the changes we wish to make. Is sacrificing 15 minutes of television a night to better plan the day ahead possible? Would you turn off your phone for 20 minutes in order to make some strides toward learning that new language? Are you be willing to go to bed an hour earlier to make a commitment to exercise in the morning? These are the kinds of sacrifices you must be willing to make if you want real change. It’s about planning your time more efficiently and being consistent with your effort. Now you have an idea of what direction to go. You have a pretty darn good idea of what you are willing to forsake in order to build your self worth. You have the outline of your puzzle, and you have those big, positive pieces of your life to guide you. You also have one or two changes to make. Now, again, step back. It’s time to stop planning and start doing! This final planning stage is where you need to get specific with how you delegate your time. The decision to put your energy toward a goal is a big one. Do right by your goal. Every journey starts with one step, so get moving. Call on friends, call on professionals should you need to, and call on me! If I can’t help you make a change, I know someone who can. When we take a step back and look at how we spend our time, we see things in a new light. Much like the puzzle, the piece you have been looking for may be right under your nose, but it only reveals itself when you step away and take a look at the big picture. A step back might seem like a waste of time at first, but in the end, it will be that very step that reveals the path to success. Michelle Brown is an ACE Certified Medical Exercise Specialist, ACE Certified Personal Trainer, Spartan SGX Coach, Martial Arts and Self Defense Expert, TRX Level 2 Certified Trainer, Certified Trigger Point Rehabilitation Therapist, SCW Yoga Level 2 Instructor, Competitive Vegan Athlete and owner of Gumsaba Fitness Programs. Michelle has been helping clients surpass their goals since 1998. Gumsaba offers outdoor fitness programs, personal, small group and sport specific training. Join Gumsaba for a FREE CLASS. Visit gumsaba.com and click get started to redeem your free class with promo code HOLIDAY2016. www.gumsaba.com. Advertorial
Children whose parents are battling cancer have a range of concerns CSC addresses through Kid’s Circle and Teen Talk programs. Families attend these monthly sessions together, but participate in separate activities ending with lunch and a family activity geared toward generating communication. Teens spend time in a facilitated discussion group with peers, while children under 13 engage in group activities aimed at encouraging them to express their feelings along with fostering coping skills. Chief Executive Officer James Bouquin understands how confusing confronting cancer with a loved one can be. He first learned of what was then the Wellness Community while caring for his wife. He recalls being so overwhelmed as a caregiver with analyzing treatment options that he didn’t realize her oncologist had included a Wellness Community handout in the information packet. A colleague told him about the center, and months later he found the brochure. Now as a fulltime advocate for cancer patients and their families, Bouquin leads CSC in honoring the commitment to “serve anyone facing cancer in our community who comes to us for support – including patients, survivors, caregivers and other family members. We provide CSC exercise classes from Pilates and Yoga to Walking for Health are geared them with all of the help they need, for as long as they need it.” Still the only facility of its kind to the level of activity best benefiting cancer patients. Photo courtesy of CSC. in Northern California, CSC also offers off-site programs in Antioch, Castro Valley, San Ramon, and Vallejo. “We complement medical treatment by teaching people with cancer how best to partner with their medical team and how to heal in mind, body and spirit,” Bouquin explains. “Our mission is to help people facing cancer to become healthier, to live longer and to live better.” While long-term survival is never guaranteed, improving the quality of whatever lifespan is possible is an attainable goal. Although Cancer Support Community calendars are distributed at many oncology practices, patients and caregivers are often so swamped with making decisions and re-organizing their lives that they overlook this invaluable resource. Patty Koepke distributes calendars to neighbors and friends as soon as she learns of their need for the information. “I completely and thoroughly enjoy volunteering at Cancer Support Community,” she says. “I am pleased when I am able to talk someone out of tears and into a wee bit of a smile.” The National Cancer Institute (NCI) estimates that by the close of 2016 in the United States 1,685,210 new cases of cancer will have been diagnosed and 595,690 people will die from the disease. NCI also estimates that by 2024, the number of people surviving a cancer diagnosis will rise from nearly 14.5 million in 2014 to almost 19 million. While national organizations are focused on research that will impact future patients, CSC is dedicated to providing immediate help to those coping with cancer today. Recognizing the escalating need for services, CSC recently went into contract to purchase a 5.75-acre property just west of Lafayette Reservoir to build a community campus with expanded facilities. Plans for the portion of the property opposite the Lafayette Community Garden involve collaboration of CSC nutritionists with the Community Garden to establish a teaching garden that will provide everyone (not just those touched by cancer) with information on growing food that promotes health and also “food as medicine.” “Hope Walk” held on May 21, 2016 had over 500 attendees raising more than $100,000. This year’s event, with a 3.1-mile scenic stroll around Heather Farm Park in Walnut Creek, is in the planning stages. The date set for the Annual CSC Golf Tournament at Round Hill Country Club in Alamo is July 31, 2017. The annual September Gala will include a gourmet dinner, live music and lively auctions. For sponsorship opportunities and more details contact Carol Louisell at 925-953-1209. Information on fundraising events for CSC as well as ways to contribute throughout the year can be found at www.cancersupportcommunity.net where the current calendar of activities is also posted. Cancer Support Community is located at 3276 McNutt Drive, Walnut Creek. Phone 925-933-0107.
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
THE EYE OPENER
WHY DO I NEED TO GET MY EYES CHECKED IF I CAN SEE FINE? By Gregory Kraskowsky, O.D., Alamo Optometry
Now that we are entering a new year, it should be a good time to evaluate our own health and well-being. Since we were all busy eating and enjoying time with family and friends during the holiday season, we were not able to address our own personal health. This includes doctor visits, dental visits, and getting your eyes examined. Several patients have commented that they are deciding that just because their glasses are fine and they see “OK,” there is no need to have their eyes checked. I will go over some reasons why this is not a good idea and there is a need for annual exams. I think most people would be surprised at how many medications and medical conditions can affect the eyes and vision. Some of the obvious ones are diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. Most patients are aware of the potential ocular side effects of these conditions and are therefore following up with their medical doctor and coming into the office for annual exams. However, as an example, I have had a few patients lately who suffer from colitis who did not know of the potential effects on the eyes. They were astounded to find out about the inflammation associated with colitis and any other -itis disease such as hepatitis, arthritis, and auto-immune conditions such as lupus. These conditions can go to the eye and cause an iritis (a severe inflammation in the eyes that causes light-sensitivity, pain, redness), and it can happen with or without a flare-up of the systemic condition. In addition, many of the medications that patients take, including prescription and over-the-counter, can and do have ocular effects. Some of the most common of these are anti-histamines, anti-depressants, birth control and hormone replacement. Many people feel that because these medications are so commonplace and in some instances not prescription that they don’t need to be revealed at an eye exam. Knowing this information
THE DAD-BOD EPIDEMIC
By Dr. Jerome Potozkin
A few years ago when my kids were six and eight years old, my family and I traveled to New York City’s Times Square area and almost became victims of the Times Square Terrorist’s attempt to blow up Times Square. When we returned home, we were on several local news stations. When I saw the clips on TV, I was alarmed at how heavy I appeared. They say that television adds weight, but this was ridiculous. The demands of parenthood caught up with me. I was skipping workouts at the gym, and at dinner I would often finish the food that my kids didn’t eat. My physique had become what is known as “DadBod.” I’m not alone as I am sure some people reading this have the same shared experience. You might even notice more of this if you ate a little too much over the holidays. What did I do? Well, I did what I recommend to everyone who consults with me for CoolSculpting or liposuction. I began a committed exercise program and modified my diet. I was highly motivated and was able to transform the “DadBod” to a more fit and healthy body. However, I still had some stubborn areas. These areas are highly amenable to CoolSculpting. CoolSculpting has become the gold standard for non-surgical fat reduction. It is not for women only. In addition to women, we see many men who seek treatment. It works great for pesky love handles and abdominal fat. Many men feel that excess weight makes them look out of shape, tired, or older. Diet and exercise plus CoolSculpting can be an excellent remedy. CoolSculpting works by freezing the fat cells. Fat cells are more sensitive to cold temperatures than the other skin structures, so we can selectively destroy the fat cells without harming the other skin structures. This proce-
JANUARY 2017 • ALAMO TODAY • PAGE 29
can definitely help in diagnosing such issues as contact lens intolerance, dry eyes, and blurry vision. Obviously, these and other medications affect some people more than others. However, knowing about the medications and changes in dosage can help elicit a reason for a problem or can help diagnose a problem. I think the take-home message here is that because the eye is an integral part of the body, all systemic issues and medications need to be discussed with the doctor. Generally, patients who have diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol have been educated enough that they understand the potential effects on the retina and that through a dilated exam or optomap the blood vessels can be viewed and evaluated for overall health. I tell patients all the time that the retina is the only place in the body where blood vessels can be observed without an invasive procedure. If the retina looks healthy and normal, you can generally assume that the vessels in other organs such as your liver and kidney are also satisfactory. In contrast, once in awhile a diagnosis of diabetes, high blood pressure, and multiple sclerosis can be made just from the eye exam alone because of a prescription change and/or certain changes in the retina or optic nerve. Preventative care in any field including general health, dentistry, and eye care generally reduces issues that would have developed down the line if left unchecked. It is generally a good idea to have your teeth and health checked regularly before pain and/or expensive procedures need to be done because a condition went unchecked for years. A large percentage of the time, everything is fine. However, if something is found during the exam or ancillary testing, the prognosis is almost always better after an early diagnosis and early treatment. The same can definitely be said of the eyes. Even if your glasses are “fine,” we recommend using your insurance for a comprehensive examination to ensure that your overall health is being maintained along with your vision and ocular well-being. Dr. K. at Alamo Optometry is your hometown eye doctor for outstanding service, vision care, and designer eyewear. He can be reached at 8206622, or visit his office at 3201 Danville Blvd., Suite 165 in Alamo. Visit our website at www.alamooptometry.com, and join us on Facebook, InAdvertorial stagram, and Twitter @Alamo Optometry. dure requires no social downtime or time off work. At my office we offer “dual-sculpting.” We have two CoolSculpting machines so that we can treat two areas of the body at once, essentially cutting your treatment time in half. We’ll also entertain you during your treatment as we have your favorite TV station available for viewing in our dedicated CoolSculpting treatment room. Instead of beer and pretzels while you watch your favorite game on ESPN, you can have your fat reduced. Prefer watching HGTV during you treatment? We have that as well. We are committed to not only getting the best result but also to making the experience as easy as possible. Have a busy work schedule? We can offer weekend treatments. If you have excess fat, we always recommend exercising and eating a healthy diet. Do you have fat that you still can’t get rid of? Call us today as during the month of January 2017 we are offering complimentary CoolSculpting consultations. Dr. Potozkin is a board certified dermatologist who has been serving the local community since 1993. His fully accredited dermatological and laser facility is located at 600 San Ramon Valley Blvd, Suite 102 in Danville. He is accepting new patients. Please call (925) 838-4900 or visit www.Potozkin.com for more information. Advertorial COMPUTER SERVICES, IT DESIGN & IMPLEMENTATION, IT INFRASTRUCTURE MANAGEMENT
Technology. Simplified.
Serving Bay Area businesses and residents since 2001
925-552-7953 helpdesk@pcioit.com www.pcioit.com
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
PAGE 30 • ALAMO TODAY • JANUARY 2017
RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY: THE OTHER SIDE OF PLASTICS
By Barbara Persons, MD, Persons Plastic Surgery, Inc.
What I really enjoy about writing this monthly column is that it affords me the opportunity to educate, and clarify misconceptions about plastic surgery. My practice encompasses both cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery, and is in the most basic sense, about changing my patients’ quality of life. Whether the surgery is cosmetic or reconstructive, I look forward to work every day because I know I can help people feel more confident about themselves, and improve their ability to function well, both physically and emotionally. Many of my past articles have focused on education associated with cosmetic procedures, but this month I want to focus on the reconstructive side of my practice. According to the American Board of Plastic Surgery, reconstructive surgery is defined as “surgery performed on abnormal structures of the body caused by congenital defects, developmental abnormalities, trauma, infection, tumors, or disease.” Generally, reconstructive surgery is performed to improve function, but may also be done to approximate a normal appearance. As a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, I perform both cosmetic and reconstructive procedures. Reconstructive surgery represents a significant portion of my practice. The American Board of Plastic Surgery requires extensive training in areas which include congenital defects of the head and neck, craniomaxillofacial trauma, reconstructive surgery of the breast, surgery of the hand, plastic surgery of lower extremities, plastic surgery of the trunk and genitalia, burn reconstruction, microsurgical techniques, reconstruction by tissue transfer, and surgery of benign and malignant lesions. While a plastic and reconstructive surgeon’s training is extensive and spans many areas of expertise, a strong sense for aesthetics is also critically important for a procedure to be successful. Reconstructive surgery is in fact, as much an art form as it is a science. To perform a successful reconstruction, one must envision the results, the “art,” before beginning to operate. It is “seeing” in a completely different way. Plastic surgery has often been misunderstood, or perceived as being superficial. The reality is that my training and strong aesthetic sense has enabled me to perform countless reconstructions, most recently on a pregnant woman with rapidly progressing cancer. It has allowed me to reconstruct a gunshot victim’s facial wounds, and repair the faces of dozens of children who were victims of dog attacks. Additional reconstructive procedures I’ve performed include reconstruction of skin cancer defects, skin grafts, and hand surgery. To have the opportunity to work with patients in need of reconstructive surgery is one of my greatest joys in life. I have seen the physical and emotional transformation of thousands of patients over many years of performing surgery. Enabling a patient to live a normal life, while instilling in them a sense of renewed confidence and self-esteem, is remarkably rewarding. It is more than improving appearances, it is allowing people to live the life they deserve and desire. Dr. Barbara Persons is a Plastic Surgeon and owns Persons Plastic Surgery, Inc. located at 911 Moraga Rd, Suite 205 in Lafayette. She may be reached at 925.283.4012 or drbarb@ Advertorial personsplasticsurgery.com.
To advertise call 925.405.6397 HEARING LOSS ASSOCIATION
Come to meetings of the Diablo Valley Chapter of Hearing Loss Association of America at 7pm on the 1st Wednesday of the month at the Walnut Creek United Methodist Church located at 1543 Sunnyvale Ave., Walnut Creek Education Bldg., Wesley Room. Meeting room and parking are at back of church. All are welcome. Donations are accepted. An assistive listening system is available for T-coils, and most meetings are captioned. Contact HLAADV@hearinglossdv.org or (925) 264-1199 or www.hearinglossdv.org for more information.
PRACTICE CHANGING HEMATOLOGY UPDATES
By Robert Robles, MD
This year’s meeting of the American Society of Hematology (ASH), held this year in San Diego, was less noticeable for blockbuster announcements than many potentially practice changing presentations. For patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), the use of Obinatuzumab (Gazyva), in combination with standard chemotherapy, was superior to the use of the standard therapy with Rituximab (Rituxan) in prolonging the time CLL remains under control. Two studies demonstrated the use of Lenalidomide (Revlimid) as a maintenance therapy after completion of standard chemotherapy also delayed the progression of CLL. CLL by nature is a chronic disease with relapses and remissions. Safe and well tolerated therapies which prolong the interval between potentially more toxic therapies should be a welcome addition to the therapeutic armamentarium. Diffuse large B cell non Hodgkins Lymphoma is the most common subtype of non Hodgkins Lymphoma. It is a potentially curable malignancy when treated with chemotherapy. However, since not all patients are cured, there has been continuous research to improve treatment results. A trial conducted in the U.S.A. compared standard chemotherapy, R-CHOP, with a more intensive and difficult-to-administer chemotherapy regimen called dose adjusted R-EPOCH. This trial showed the treatments to be equivalent. Although this trial did not show a benefit to any one treatment, the subtleties of why this result occurred are probably as important as the result of the trial. Regardless, the most important message from this trial is that more chemotherapy is not necessarily better. A better understanding of the subsets that make up the category we currently call diffuse large B cell non Hodgkins Lymphoma will hopefully allow more targeted therapies to be developed. A study from the University of Minnesota evaluated the safety and efficacy of new anticoagulants (Pradaxa, Eliquis, and Xarelto) in patients with cancer. The use of these new anticoagulants in patients with cancer has not been evaluated in a large number of patients. The study concluded these drugs appear to be safe and efficacious. Large studies evaluating the new anticoagulants to confirm their safety and efficacy are ongoing. Robert Robles, MD is board certified in Medical Oncology and Hematology. He practices with Diablo Valley Oncology & Hematology Medical Group, located at the California Cancer and Research Institute in Pleasant Hill, and he also sees patients in San Ramon. Dr. Robles has a special interest in treating hematologic cancers, lymphomas, and blood and clotting disorders. For more Advertorial information, call (925) 677-504 or visit www.dvohmg.com.
C L A S S I F I E D COMPUTER HELP
ITkid Computer Help Assistance with any tech related issue for a low price. Help with Email•Wifi•Computer•Smartphone•Tablet•Etc. $40/hr. Contact Max Nunan, local ITkid consultant. (925) 482-5488, maxnunan@gmail.com
FOR RENT
BIG ISLAND HAWAII - Luxurious 5 bedroom, 5 ½ bath home with pool and spa in Mauna Lani, Champion Ridge. Access to private beach, 2 golf courses, shopping, restaurants, and many other amenities. Rent by the week. Call 925-586-8893 or reserve on VRBO listing #630743. CONDO VACATION RENTAL Mauna Lani Resort, Big Island. New luxury 2 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath condo on 4th fairway. Minimum 3 night stay. Contact Alamo owners for discounted rate. (925)381-7042, Alamomgt@usa.net
Alamo Today Classifieds
Reach over 6,500 homes and businesses in Alamo & Diablo - Help Wanted, For Sale, Services, Lessons, Pets, Rentals, Wanted, Freebies...$35 for up to 45 words.$5 for each additional 15 words. Send or email submissions to: 3000F Danville Blvd #117,Alamo,CA 94507 or editor@yourmonthlypaper.com. Run the same classified ad in our sister papers “Lafayette Today” or “Danville Today News” and pay half off for your second and/or third ad! Payment by check made out to “The Editors” must be received before ad will print. Your cancelled check is your receipt. We reserve the right to reject any ad.
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
SAY GOODBYE TO YOUR PINCHED NERVE!
By Dr. Kristin Moore, DC
The holidays are over and it is finally time to get back to regular life. Your routine can finally normalize, and your exercise plan can go back into effect. The one problem is that the stress from holiday shopping, family gatherings, poor dietary habits, and lack of sleep has turned your sore and achy back into a full blown pinched nerve attack. Now, the mere thought of going back to work and sitting for a prolonged period of time sounds unbearable, or going to the gym seems like an impossible task because your pain is just too much. If that describes you, then you are not alone! Did you know that 85% of Americans will experience back pain at least once in their life? And did you know that the majority of those people will experience something called a pinched nerve? Those who have experienced this kind of pain know how excruciatingly painful this condition can be.
SYMPTOMS OF A PINCHED NERVE
Symptoms of a pinched nerve include: • Sharp, stabbing, or burning pain that may radiate outward • Numbness or decreased sensation in an area of the body • A “pins and needles” sensation in the affected area • Muscle weakness in the region of the pinched nerve • A feeling that a certain part of your body has “fallen asleep”
WHAT CAUSES A PINCHED NERVE?
A pinched nerve has many different causes. It is basically caused by constant pressure from either a bulging disc, a tight muscle, or a bone /joint that is misaligned.
HOW DO YOU TREAT A PINCHED NERVE?
There are many different treatments for pinched nerves. However, these are the three most effective methods. Depending of the type of pinched nerve
JANUARY 2017 • ALAMO TODAY • PAGE 31
you have, one or more of these treatments may be used. • Spinal Decompression Therapy: When a pinched nerve is caused by a bulging disc, spinal decompression is typically the most effective treatment. Spinal decompression is a form of motorized traction which slowly stretches the spine. Over a series of treatments, decompression creates negative pressure within the disc, and can actually cause the bulge to retract and take the pressure off of the nerve. • Class IV Laser Therapy (K-Laser): K-Laser treatments are very effective at treating pinched nerves caused by a cramped muscle. The laser is a form of light therapy that increases blood flow to the effected area in order to release the tight muscle and pump away inflammation that has built up around the nerve. • Gentle Chiropractic Care: This can help to realign vertebrae that have become misaligned and are compressing the nerve. This can be done very gently and can be done without even hearing the “popping” sound.
HOW EFFECTIVE IS THIS TREATMENT?
I have had great success treating pinched nerves by using a combination of these three treatment methods, and I have found them to be incredibly effective. The severity of the pinched nerve will depend on how long the treatment will take. It can take anywhere from days to a few months. One rule of thumb that is true in most cases: the longer you have a pinched nerve, the longer and more difficult it is to treat. If you are experiencing these symptoms do not put off treatment any longer!
WILL THIS WORK FOR ME?
The best way to find out if this form of non-invasive treatment is truly right for you is to set up a complimentary, 15-minute consultation. This will give me an opportunity to ask you specific questions about your pinched nerve and help me to determine which treatment methods will help you the most. To learn more, please visit www.alignhealingcenter.com. To schedule your complimentary consultation, please call our office at (925) 362-8283 or send me an email at drkristinmooredc@gmail.com. My office is located Advertorial at 125-G Railroad Ave., Danville.
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
PAGE 32 • ALAMO TODAY • JANUARY 2017
The Combs Team
1440 EMMONS CANYON $1,625,000 $496.94 23 DARLENE $1,630,000 $639.72 1251 LAVEROCK LN $1,637,000 $446.66 170 GOLDEN RIDGE RD $1,637,100 $677.89 216 DORCHESTER LN $1,645,000 $369.66 230 SYDNEY DR $1,650,000 $408.52 351 BRYAN DR $1,700,000 $489.21 68 CREST AVE $1,730,000 $539.78 1396 DANVILLE BLVD $506,813 $532.93 68 CREST AVE $1,730,000 $539.78 1394 DANVILLE BLVD $705,000 $476.03 10 ELAINE CT $1,775,000 $643.82 136 SUGARLOAF CT $850,000 $470.13 3006 LUNADA LN $1,785,000 $489.18 121 EASY ST $963,500 $572.15 2460 SOUTHVIEW DR $1,795,000 $714.85 1449 SUNNYBROOK RD $1,000,000 $574.05 33 BUCKTHORN PL $1,800,000 $597.01 2561 DANVILLE BLVD $1,065,000 $565.29 28 BUSHMINT PL $1,800,000 $556.41 4 ORCHARD LN $1,070,000 $434.96 51 CASTLE CREST RD $1,835,000 $386.48 228 ACACIA LN $1,100,000 $498.87 2436 ALAMO GLEN DR $1,863,000 $491.95 ® 383 LIVORNA HEIGHTS $1,100,000 $687.50 112 LARK CT $1,865,000 $440.79 207 SYDNEY DR $1,125,000 $442.74 1314 LAVEROCK LN $1,870,000 $416.67 2440 LUNADA LN $1,150,000 $479.17 148 ERSELIA TRL $1,946,000 $483.24 1496 PINE TREE DR $1,199,000 $688.29 2386 ROYAL OAKS DR $1,950,000 $368.83 17 WAVERLY CT $1,240,000 $427.88 400 RED WING DR $1,972,000 $481.45 234 STONE VALLEY WAY $1,275,000 $376.77 399 SOUTH AVE $1,982,500 $626.18 28 EDINBURGH PL $1,289,999 $464.86 150 SUGAR CREEK LN $2,020,000 $379.49 3200 STONE VALLEY RD $1,295,000 $549.66 416 OSHER CT $2,025,000 $477.37 120 WAYLAND LANE $1,300,000 $464.29 1489 SILVA DALE LN $2,100,000 $531.65 108 VIA SERENA $1,314,000 $720.79 208 HARRINGTON CT $2,105,000 $496.23 1491 FINLEY LN $1,315,000 $721.73 3143 ROUNDHILL RD $2,170,000 $681.32 $1,625,000 $496.94 517 OAKSHIRE PL 11 ROBBINS PL $1,325,000 $304.74 1440 EMMONS CANYON $2,285,000 $364.49 Just to be a little different this month, I thought I would list the homes that have sold in Alamo as reported for the last quarter of the year (September 1- December $1,630,000 $639.72 111 TRACY CT 127 VALLEY OAKS DR $1,335,000 $491.53 23 DARLENE $2,295,000 $516.19 1,2016). The first thing that jumps out191 OAK RD is the wide variation$1,350,000 in sold price and dollars paid per square foot. The statistical average for sold price in Alamo is $1,747,861 the $1,637,000 $446.66 228 SOUTH AVE $450.00 1251 LAVEROCK LN $2,330,000 $446.87 170 GOLDEN RIDGE RD $1,637,100 $677.89 40 CORWIN DR $1,363,500 $548.47 The average square foot price is $530. The 118 CASTLE CREST RD median price is exactly $1,625,000. price swath ranges from $507,000 to as much as $3,875,000 for a$691.02 Luxury Home. Prices per $2,346,000 216 DORCHESTER LN $1,645,000 1021 VIA DEL GATO $2,400,000 merits $213.56 and pricing correctly square foot range from $304 to $1,250.2110 PEBBLE DRIVE Two Alamo homes $1,365,000 sold for the$473.47 exact statistical mean. Today, homes$369.66 are being judged on their individual $1,650,000 $408.52 61 PLEASANT KNOLL CT 130 WINESTONE CT $1,370,000 $417.81 230 SYDNEY DR $2,440,000 $489.47 is more important than ever. Location,20 SARA LN condition, size, and$1,380,000 style are$493.03 just a few of the important$1,700,000 dimensions that determine value. How does your home measure up? 351 BRYAN DR $489.21 315 GOLDEN GRASS DR $2,450,000 $541.44 68 CREST AVE $1,730,000 $539.78 3090 SANDSTONE RD 135 CAMILLE CT $1,407,000 $744.44 Address $2,500,000 $542.53 Address Sales Price Price/SqFt Address Sales Price Price/SqFt Sales Price Price/SqFt Address Sales Price Price/SqFt $1,730,000 $539.78 11 GARY WAY $1,415,000 $485.92 68 CREST AVE $2,550,000 $818.09 1396 DANVILLE BLVD $506,813 $532.93 40 SHAWN $1,775,000 $643.82 2418 ALAMO GLEN DR $1,425,000 $518.18 10 ELAINE CT $2,750,000 $440.71 1394 DANVILLE BLVD $705,000 $476.03 1489 CASA VALLECITA $1,785,000 $489.18 142 ROMERO CIR $1,425,000 $610.28 3006 LUNADA LN $2,800,000 $626.12 136 SUGARLOAF CT $850,000 $470.13 1431 JACKSON WAY $1,795,000 $714.85 265 EAGLE CT $1,435,000 $1,250.00 2460 SOUTHVIEW DR $2,850,000 $628.58 121 EASY ST $963,500 $572.15 155 CAMILLE CT $1,800,000 $597.01 430 VIA DEL REY $1,435,000 $507.07 33 BUCKTHORN PL $2,898,000 $499.66 1449 SUNNYBROOK RD $1,000,000 $574.05 3258 STONE VALLEY RD $1,800,000 $556.41 358 LAS QUEBRADAS $1,439,800 $537.64 28 BUSHMINT PL $3,050,000 $687.40 2561 DANVILLE BLVD $1,065,000 $565.29 101 HERITAGE OAKS PL $1,835,000 $386.48 4105 STONE VALLEY OAKS $3,150,000 $1,460,000 $442.02 51 CASTLE CREST RD $651.77 4 ORCHARD LN $1,070,000 $434.96 1490 LIVORNA RD $1,863,000 $491.95 147 ALAMO SPRINGS DR $1,475,000 $564.05 2436 ALAMO GLEN DR $3,150,000 $495.91 228 ACACIA LN $1,100,000 $498.87 1531 RAMONA WAY $1,865,000 $440.79 600 VIA ROMERO LN $1,490,000 $579.32 112 LARK CT $3,279,000 $659.23 383 LIVORNA HEIGHTS $1,100,000 $687.50 1848 PIEDRAS CIR $1,870,000 $416.67 50 CAMINO MONTE SOL $1,499,000 $534.21 1314 LAVEROCK LN $3,875,000 $668.10 207 SYDNEY DR $1,125,000 $442.74 120 HERITAGE OAKS PL $1,946,000 $483.24 $1,515,000 $469.62 148 ERSELIA TRL 2440 LUNADA LN $1,150,000 $479.17 2442 SOUTHVIEW DR Trying to figure out your next move? Need numbers $1,950,000 $368.83 $1,520,000 $581.04 2386 ROYAL OAKS DR 1496 PINE TREE DR $1,199,000 $688.29 2945 ROUNDHILL RD and answers to your fix up questions to make your $1,972,000 $481.45 $1,525,000 $507.66 400 RED WING DR 17 WAVERLY CT $1,240,000 $427.88 1606 LITINA LN $1,982,500 $626.18 decision? Nancy and I will be happy to provide you $1,530,000 $479.02 399 SOUTH AVE 234 STONE VALLEY WAY $1,275,000 $376.77 100 WINESTONE CT $2,020,000 $379.49 with a personal consultation, including a multi-dimen$1,545,000 $508.39 150 SUGAR CREEK LN 28 EDINBURGH PL $1,289,999 $464.86 100 VIA COPLA $2,025,000 $477.37 $1,555,000 $435.45 416 OSHER CT 3200 STONE VALLEY RD $1,295,000 $549.66 257 CHILDERS CT sional analysis of your home’s current value, to help you $2,100,000 $531.65 $1,560,000 $503.23 1489 SILVA DALE LN 120 WAYLAND LANE $1,300,000 $464.29 361 BRYAN DR figure it out. No charge and no pressure just our honest 208 HARRINGTON CT $2,105,000 $496.23 367 BRYAN DR $1,565,000 $473.96 108 VIA SERENA $1,314,000 $720.79 $2,170,000 $681.32 opinions. Please call 925-989-6086 or send me an email $1,565,000 $387.76 3143 ROUNDHILL RD 1491 FINLEY LN $1,315,000 $721.73 1360 LAVEROCK LN $2,285,000 $364.49 joecombs@thecombsteam.com. $1,625,000 $406.25 517 OAKSHIRE PL 11 ROBBINS PL $1,325,000 $304.74 3105 STONEGATE DR $1,625,000 $496.94 111 TRACY CT $2,295,000 $516.19 127 VALLEY OAKS DR $1,335,000 $491.53 1440 EMMONS CANYON Nancy and I have more than 3,000 email subscribers $1,630,000 $639.72 228 SOUTH AVE $2,330,000 $446.87 191 OAK RD $1,350,000 $450.00 23 DARLENE $1,637,000 $446.66 40 CORWIN DR $2,346,000 $691.02 who receive this article in advance of publication. Sign 118 CASTLE CREST RD $1,363,500 $548.47 1251 LAVEROCK LN $1,637,100 $677.89 1021 VIA DEL GATO $2,400,000 $213.56 up on our website or just send me an email and we can 2110 PEBBLE DRIVE $1,365,000 $473.47 170 GOLDEN RIDGE RD $1,645,000 $369.66 61 PLEASANT KNOLL CT $2,440,000 $489.47 add you to the list. I assure you no spam will follow. 130 WINESTONE CT $1,370,000 $417.81 216 DORCHESTER LN $1,650,000 $408.52 315 GOLDEN GRASS DR $2,450,000 $541.44 20 SARA LN $1,380,000 $493.03 230 SYDNEY DR $1,700,000 $489.21 3090 SANDSTONE RD $2,500,000 $542.53 Wishing you a Happy and Prosperous New Year! 135 CAMILLE CT $1,407,000 $744.44 351 BRYAN DR $1,730,000 $539.78 11 GARY WAY $2,550,000 $818.09 40 SHAWN $1,415,000 $485.92 68 CREST AVE $1,730,000 $539.78 2418 ALAMO GLEN DR $2,750,000 $440.71 1489 CASA VALLECITA $1,425,000 $518.18 68 CREST AVE $1,775,000 $643.82 142 ROMERO CIR $2,800,000 $626.12 1431 JACKSON WAY $1,425,000 $610.28 10 ELAINE CT $1,785,000 $489.18 265 EAGLE CT $2,850,000 $628.58 155 CAMILLE CT $1,435,000 $1,250.00 3006 LUNADA LN $1,795,000 $714.85 430 VIA DEL REY $2,898,000 $499.66 3258 STONE VALLEY RD $1,435,000 $507.07 2460 SOUTHVIEW DR $1,800,000 $597.01 358 LAS QUEBRADAS $3,050,000 $687.40 101 HERITAGE OAKS PL $1,439,800 $537.64 33 BUCKTHORN PL $1,800,000 $556.41 4105 STONE VALLEY OAKS $3,150,000 $651.77 1490 LIVORNA RD $1,460,000 $442.02 28 BUSHMINT PL $1,835,000 $386.48 147 ALAMO SPRINGS DR $3,150,000 $495.91 1531 RAMONA WAY $1,475,000 $564.05 51 CASTLE CREST RD $1,863,000 $491.95 600 VIA ROMERO LN $3,279,000 $659.23 1848 PIEDRAS CIR $1,490,000 $579.32 2436 ALAMO GLEN DR $1,865,000 $440.79 50 CAMINO MONTE SOL $3,875,000 $668.10 120 HERITAGE OAKS PL $1,499,000 $534.21 112 LARK CT $1,870,000 $416.67 2442 SOUTHVIEW DR $1,515,000 $469.62 1314 LAVEROCK LN $1,946,000 $483.24 2945 ROUNDHILL RD $1,520,000 $581.04 148 ERSELIA TRL $1,950,000 $368.83 1606 LITINA LN $1,525,000 $507.66 2386 ROYAL OAKS DR $1,972,000 $481.45 100 WINESTONE CT $1,530,000 $479.02 400 RED WING DR Beautiful penthouse condo with two master Completely renovated, 2 master bed suites, 2 $1,982,500 $626.18 100 VIA COPLA $1,545,000 $508.39 399 SOUTH AVE suites. Walk to downtown Pleasant Hill. beds ensuite, office, library and au pair unit. Soar150 SUGAR CREEK LN $2,020,000 $379.49 257 CHILDERS CT $1,555,000 $435.45 416 OSHER CT $2,025,000 $477.37 Priced to sell $419,000. ing ceilings, great flow. Priced$503.23 to Sell $1,699,000. 361 BRYAN DR $1,560,000 $2,100,000 $531.65 367 BRYAN DR $1,565,000 $473.96 1489 SILVA DALE LN $2,105,000 $496.23 1360 LAVEROCK LN $1,565,000 $387.76 208 HARRINGTON CT $2,170,000 $681.32 3105 STONEGATE DR $1,625,000 $406.25 3143 ROUNDHILL RD 517 OAKSHIRE PL $2,285,000 $364.49 111 TRACY CT $2,295,000 $516.19 228 SOUTH AVE $2,330,000 $446.87 40 CORWIN DR $2,346,000 $691.02 1021 VIA DEL GATO $2,400,000 $213.56 61 PLEASANT KNOLL CT $2,440,000 $489.47 315 GOLDEN GRASS DR $2,450,000 $541.44 3090 SANDSTONE RD $2,500,000 $542.53 11 GARY WAY $2,550,000 $818.09 2418 ALAMO GLEN DR $2,750,000 $440.71 142 ROMERO CIR $2,800,000 $626.12 Single Level 4 bedroom on .86 acres. Elegant Mediterranean style 4 bedroom 3.5 bath Multiple offers. $102,000 over asking price! 265 EAGLE CT $2,850,000 $628.58 home with pool/spa. 1st floor MB suite w/2 walk-in Backs to the Iron Horse Trail. 430 VIA DEL REY $2,898,000 $499.66 closets. Priced to Sell $1,350,000 Priced to Sell $1,249,000 358 LAS QUEBRADAS $3,050,000 $687.40 4105 STONE VALLEY OAKS $651.77 Data presented in this column is based in whole or in part on data supplied by$3,150,000 the Contra Costa and Alameda MLS service and other quoted sources. J. Rockcliff Realtors 15 Railroad Ave., Danville CA. 94526 147 ALAMO SPRINGS DR $495.91 Joe Combs, Nancy Combs, The Combs Team, J. Rockcliff and the MLS service$3,150,000 do not guarantee the accuracy of this information. DRE #0144125. 600 VIA ROMERO LN $3,279,000 $659.23 50 CAMINO MONTE SOL $3,875,000 $668.10
Nancy
This is Rockcliff Country
Professionals You Can Count On
Joe
Call the Combs Team
92 5 -9 8 9 -6 0 86 www.TheCombsTeam.com
ALAMO SINGLE FAMILY MEDIAN HOME PRICE HITS $1,625,000
West Side Alamo, Mt. Diablo Views
Downsize to Downtown
SO
Award Winning Realtors
LD
Top 5% in Sales Production
West Side Alamo Single Story
West Side Alamo Single Story
LD SO
Blackhawk Area
D PEN
ING