The Valley Sentinel_Nov./December 2021 by Sentinel Newspapers

November-December 2021

Alamo • Danville • Blackhawk • Diablo • San Ramon

Valley

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November / December 2021 Access New Parks/Public

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Great Holiday Hikes Native American Heritage Month Make a Bird Feeder Kayak Safety Tips

SPOTLIGHT

Plus many more fun activities for kids and families!

Local High School Juniors Honored at American Legion Luncheon Students in the San Ramon Valley were recognized and honored at a special luncheon ceremony held at the Veterans Memorial Building hosted by American Legion Mt. Diablo Post 246.

ECRWSS

Postmaster: Dated Material

PRESORTED STANDARD US POSTAGE PAID DANVILLE, CA PERMIT NO. 70

See JUNIORS page 4

On Friday November 26, The Town of Danville and the Danville Area Chamber of Commerce kicked off the holiday season with their annual “Lighting of the Old Oak Tree.” A family event for the ages, this night is special for so many, with former students coming home to take part, and folks bring their little ones to the downtown to experience this wonderful event. Always on the Friday after Thanksgiving, we celebrate with Father Christmas, the snow Angel, student choirs providing carols and music for the holidays and an extravaganza to highlight retail businesses in the beautifully lit downtown. An event not to miss, so mark your calendars for next year!

Common Yellowthroat (Geothlypis trichas) By James M. Hale

The Common Yellowthroat (Geothlypis trichas) is a largely migratory New World warbler that is found across most of Canada, the United States, Mexico, and Central America. The genus name Geothlypis is from Ancient Greek: geo, “ground”, and thlupis, an unidentified small bird; thlypis is often used in the scientific name of New World warblers. The specific epithet trichas is a kind of thrush, the word being derived from the Greek trikhos, “hair”. Linnaeus described an individual from Maryland in 1766, making this species one of the first to be recorded and catalogued from the New World. The Common Yellowthroat is a striking little songbird to observe. Their olive backs, wings and tails, provide contrast with their bright yellow throats and chests, as well as their white bellies. The black face mask of adult males stretch

from the sides of the neck across the eyes and forehead, which are bordered above with white or gray. This characteristic gives rise to their nickname, the Yellow Bandit. The similar colored females have paler underparts, a faint white eye ring, and lack the black mask. Immature Common Yellowthroats resemble the adult females in appearance. The faint face mask of first-year males will darken completely by spring. Thirteen races are recognized, differing mainly in the males’ facial patterns and the brightness of the yellow underparts. Southwestern races are the brightest and yellowest below. Adult Common Yellowthroats rarely reach more than five inches in length, with a wingspan that may reach seven and a half inches. They weigh approximately a third of an ounce.

The Common Ye l l ow t h ro a t i s a fairly common to common yearround resident in wetlands throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. Freshwater and brackish saltwater marshes with dense stands of tules or cattails are preferred habitats. They are also found in dense riparian thickets and shrubbery in upland terrestrial habitats with unbroken stands of nettle, dock, mustard, or fennel. Most of Contra Costa County’s breeding Common Yellowthroat population is found in the saline emergent and fresh emergent marshes along the northern portion of the county, and Central Valley. Two races have been identified as nesting in the

county. Females appear to prefer males with larger face masks. The male Common Yellowthroat often perches atop a tall stalk of tule or cattail, announcing his presence with his distinctive song, an oscillating wichity-wichitywichity. Flight displays up to one hundred feet high are performed to attract females. Nesting in

This Month’s Special Sections: Sentinel Newspapers, Inc. P.O. Box 1309 Danville, CA 94526 925-820-6047

Holidays & Senior Living

pages 6 - 7 page 8

See YELLOWTHROAT page 3

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THE VALLEY SENTINEL November 2021

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Regional Parks Address Fire Danger Beverly Lane, East Bay Regional Park District Board of Directors

Fires and firestorms are on people’s minds after years of drought and frightening f i re s a l l ove r C a l i f o r n i a and the West. Indeed, this has been a year of extreme fire danger in the regional parks and other public open space. It is also the 30th anniversary of one of California’s deadliest fires, the Berkeley-Oakland Tunnel Fire of October 1991. A s i s t h e c a s e eve r y year, East Bay Regional Park District has a pro-active fire prevention program which focuses on th wildlandurban interface along the East Bay Hills. To manage the vegetation, we graze cattle on thousands of acres as well as sheep and

goats. Homeowners near open spaces need to be sure there is defensible space around their homes and other buildings. The district maintains a fuel break that extends through the East Bay hills f ro m R i c h m o n d t h ro u g h Castro Valley. It’s an area of thinned vegetation between the parklands and adjacent residential neighborhoods. Designed to slow the spread of fire in either direction, it also provides firefighters with a place to make a stand against advancing flames. Herds of goats owned by a company with which the district contracts maintain the fuel break. The goats munch away on some of the excess underbrush and eat almost everything, including poison oak and non-native shrubbery. Although September and October are generally regarded as the peak fire danger months, the park district continues its

vegetation management yearround. The district employs eight full-time firefighters, two full-time lieutenants, and five full-time captains. Several dozen more staff who work other district jobs are also available to fight fires when needed. Some are park rangers, others are in administrative positions, but all are fully trained firefighters. With 125,000 acres of parklands our focus is wildland fires

In 2019 the district added a fuels reduction crew that now has 12 members, led by a fire captain. The fuels crew works 365 days per year reducing dangerous fuel levels in the wildland-urban interface and is specially trained as an initial attack fire hand crew. The district also has mutual aid agreements with the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CALFIRE) and the MoragaOrinda Fire District. The Park District assists other

Community encouraged to join Housing Workshop Series

Danville is mandated to plan for at least 2,241 new homes As part of an ongoing community engagement plan to seek the community’s input in Danville’s 2022-2030 Housing Element Update, the Town is encouraging more people to join one of a series of virtual community workshops to learn more about Danville’s mandated Housing Element Update and participate in the process. In the 2022-2030 update, the Town is mandated by the State to accommodate a minimum of 2,241 new homes. The workshops are aimed at helping the community understand exactly what Danville is facing in the State mandated Housing Element Update and to allow residents to ask questions. The first Housing Element workshop

was held on June 12. Town staff and housing consultant, Diana Elrod talked about the issues facing Danville and answered questions from participants. The Town is encouraging community participation and input so that the final plan balances the mandate to accommodate growth while preserving Danville’s history and character. The workshops will each discuss the Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA) process, state law requirements, and the Housing Element policy document that identifies where and how Danville will accommodate existing and projected future housing needs for people of all income groups.

Additional workshops are scheduled for Thursday, July 8, Thursday, August 19, Tuesday, August 31, and Saturday, September 18. Community members can register in advance for this virtual workshop at https://us02web.zoom.us/ webinar/register/WN_ip5hglnQvmRoPkmELfXfA or visit the newly launched www. DanvilleTownTalks.org to learn more about the Housing Element Update, sign up for updates, complete surveys, add comments and register for any of the other workshop dates. For additional information, contact Public Information Officer Nicola Shihab at (925) 314-3336 or nshihab@danville. ca.gov.

fire departments when fires are adjacent to district lands. H o n o r i n g a n a g re e m e n t

with the California Office of Emergency Services, the regional park fire department sent strike teams to help with several of the devastating fires that are still burning in other areas of California. The park district’s two helicopters patrol the parklands routinely, but also serve firefighting roles when a fire occurs. They are equipped with a 250-gallon Bambi bucket, which can scoop up water from ponds and reservoirs, then dump it on advancing flames. The copters are also airborne o b s e r va t i o n p o s t s, f ro m which the pilots can describe to ground crews the size of a fire, any structures threatened, and the best approaches for fire engines. The copters have medevac capability, too. Recently the park district received an appropriation of $13.5 million from the California state budget to fund wildfire prevention and fuel reduction in the East Bay hills.

S o m e $ 10 m i l l i o n o f this will be used to remove trees affected by the recent sudden tree die-off, a troubling development affecting hundreds of forest acres whose cause is so far unknown. Parks especially affected are Anthony Chabot and Reinhardt Redwood in Oakland, Tilden Regional Park near Berkeley, and MillerKnox Regional Shoreline in Point Richmond. Park visitors can help with fire prevention, too. Some basics: smoking, including vaping, is prohibited in all the regional parks; gasoline p owe re d g e n e ra t o rs a re prohibited. Gas or propane camp stoves and portable barbecues are okay, but must be placed where they will not scorch or burn lawns or tabletops, and must be 30 feet from any flammable material such as grass, brush or buildings. When fire danger is deemed extreme, many further restrictions apply. Out in the parklands, if you see smoke or a fire, call 9-1-1 immediately. Try to report the fire’s location, size, direction of burn, and whether any structures or people are at risk. Then leave the area as quickly as possible. During an emergency, please cooperate with any instructions from park rangers, police, firefighters and other district staff. Your safety is their paramount concern. We all hope for a rainy winter. In the meantime, for current information on fire dangers, rules, and park status, visit ebparks.org/ firewarninginfo, or call 510881-1833.

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November 2021

THE VALLEY SENTINEL

Year-end giving can help preserve our natural lands by donating to Save Mount Diablo and to help protect our shared on and around Mount Diablo For many. Of us, Mount Diablo features prominently in our everyday lives, and longtime supporters Ron and Diane de Golia want to help keep it that way. Diane says, “We don’t hike but we see the Mount Diablo and its beautiful foothillls all the time, every day, and the sight of this stunning landscape brings us smile joy.” We support Save Mount Diablo because keeping the natural lands of this area free from incompatible development protects what makes living here so special. It’s about quality of life.” “We want to encourage others to participation giving, to support Save Mount diablo,

home.” Do you regularly hike, run, bike or ride on Mount Diablo for exercise and rejuvenation? Do you walk the trails slowly searching for that rare, beautiful flower, or perch patiently on hillsides, binoculars raised, in anticipation of seeing your favorite bird? Or, like Ron and Diane, do you enjoy Diablo’s natural lands mostly from a distance? Whatever the place Diablo holds in your life, please help protector local landscape by making a gift this year-end. Your gift will help Save Mount Diablo continue to: • Protect more than 60,000 acres of natural lands that remain vulnerable lands

and extend our efforts into the greater Diablo Range; • a d vo c a t e f o r s t ro n g environmental protections for our natural lands and our communities; • thoroughly steward the more than 2,000 acres in our care; • and provide meaningful opportunities for you and others to connect with and learn about, our natural world here. Together, let’s ensure that the lands of the Diablo Region remain, naturally, at the center of our lives. Thanks for your support!

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Park District Receives United Nations Award Ned MacKay, East Bay Regional Park District

In recognition of its leadership role in providing essential services during the pandemic, East Bay Regional Park District has received the United Nations Association’s 2021 Global Citizen Award. The award was conferred by the Association’s East Bay and Silicon Valley Chapters. It also acknowledges the park district’s commitment to the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, adopted by the United Nations in 2015 as a guide to creating a world more equitable, inclusive and sustainable for all peoples. “We are honored to be recognized for our contribution to physical health, stress relief

and mental well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said park district board president Dee Rosario. “Parks have provided an essential public service. We are proud that when the public needed us most, we answered the call and kept parks open and safe.” The award was presented to Rosario and park district general manager Sabrina Landreth at a virtual ceremony on Sunday, Oct. 24.

You can watch while the staff feeds crabs, fish and other Bay water inhabitants. While you are there, check out the California Coast and Ocean Photography exhibit, and the photos and artifacts from Alameda’s past. The visitor center is at 1252 McKay Ave. off Central Avenue. Parking costs $5 per vehicle when the kiosk is attended; entry to the visitor center is free. For information, call 510-544-3187.

* * * From 3 to 3:30 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday except Christmas Day, it’s fish feeding time in the aquarium at Crab Cove Visitor Center in Alameda.

* * * This is just a sample. For a complete program listing, visit the park district website, www. ebparks.org.

YELLOWTHROAT from page 1

Concern with a Third Priority rank. This is the subspecies that is prominent in Contra Costa County. The subspecies arizela may be represented in the Central Valley populations of eastern Contra Costa County. This subspecies breeds from Alaska to Central California and is more widespread and common than sinuosa, with its restricted salt marshbrackish marsh habitat affinity and range. Habitat loss from development of wetlands and open areas, and nest parasitism by Brown-headed Cowbirds are significant threats. Predators like snakes, turtles, raccoons, opossums, minks, river otters, and other animals may find the low-lying eggs or nestlings. An adult Common Yellowthroat was found in the stomach of a Largemouth Bass. Adult Common Yellowthroats may be attacked by hawks and owls. Contra Costa County populations appear to be stable.

James M. Hale is a vertebrate zoologist, ethnobiologist, and ecological consultant based in Contra Costa County. Please visit his website at www.dochale. com.

low areas of vegetation may begin as early as March, or even late February in some years. The bulky, cup-shaped nest is constructed of grasses and leaves, and lined with soft materials. The female incubates three to five, creamy white eggs with brown and black spots, for about twelve days. Both parents feed the nestlings which fledge in about eight to ten days. Two broods may be raised in good years. Common Yellowthroats glean vegetation and hover for adult and larval insects, including dragonflies, beetles, grasshoppers, ants, and spiders. Occasionally seeds are eaten. The San Francisco or Salt Marsh Common Yellowthroat subspecies Geothlypis trichas sinuosa has suffered greatly from the destruction of wetlands and has been designated a California Bird Species of Special

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Be Kind to the Environment Please Recycle this Newspaper

How can you become an even better Recycler? Take the Pledge: Properly sort packagi ng materia ls this holiday season by doing the followin g: • Break down and flatten cardboard boxes • Remove Styrofoam and packing peanuts • Make sure everything fits in the blue cart with the lid closed

Contra Costa Recycles

Vote for your favorite local Waste Reduction Project! Pledge to recycle more and vote for a local community project to receive a $1500 waste reduction project grant by December 30th. www.ContraCostaRecycles .com Republic Services will raffle off prizes from local eco-stores!

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THE VALLEY SENTINEL November 2021

JUNIORS from page 1 Delegates attending Girls State: Michelle Chen, Monte Vista High School; Pujitha Nachuri, Dougherty Valley High School; Hollis Carey, The Athenian School; Evelyn Howard, San Ramon Valley High School; Evelyn Ramos, California High School

These young men and women were selected by Post 246 and attended the Boys and Girls State Programs for seven days in June 2021, where they learned about how government works from the municipal and the state level by actually practicing it. They were initially grouped into cities and established a fully functional government, next they formed county governments, and then finally established a complete state government. While all held various offices and appointed positions, one of the boys was elected State governor! At the luncheon, each student gave a speech detailing their experience at the program. All students were presented with a Legion Certificate of Appreciation for contributing to the program and awarded an American Legion Boys or Girls State Medal by the honorable Renee Morgan, Town of Danville and Post Commander Mark Heinemann. Ad d i t i o n a l h o n o re d guests included: The honorable Newell Arnerich, Danville Vice Mayor; Vicki Bean, District 9 President and District 9 Girls State Chair, and her husband, Jim Bean, an Army veteran; Linda Workman, Western

Division National Poppy Chair, Unit President Unit 161, and Past Dept President; Mark Van Warmerdam, a n A l u m n u s o f B oys State, and Tullie Gottlieb, Co-Directors of College Counseling, Athenian High School; Amanda Maino, President, Rotary Club of Dougherty Valley / San Ramon; and Claudia Nemit, Program Chair and Girls State Alumna, Mt Diablo Chapter DAR. Boys State or Girls State alumni include US presidents, world class athletes, CEO/CFO/CTOs, Grammy Award-winning musicians, elected officials, ambassadors, military leaders, scientists, inventors, doctors, and more. Such prominent career stories exemplify why the American Legion Boys State and American Legion Auxiliary Girls State programs are among the most respected leadership and citizenship programs for U.S. high-school students. Both programs are committed to preserving our democracy, liberty, and justice by supporting and investing in our next generation of leaders and citizens. For more information please visit w w w. americanlegionpost246.org.

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If a Tree Falls: Art of the Boundary Oak now through February 13, 2022 If a Tree Falls: Art of the Boundary Oak memorializes the City of Walnut Creek’s signature Valley Oak, which tragically fell during a massive windstorm in October 2019. As a tribute to the tree’s long life and rich history, which spanned 325 years, the artists in the exhibition created artworks from its wood, offering this monumental being a second life. In addition to honoring the tree’s grand legacy, this t i m e l y c o m m u n i t y s h ow provides a much-needed celebration of local artists and highlights the unifying forces of nature. If a Tree Falls includes 64 emerging, midcareer, and established Bay Area artists who work across disciplines from painting and drawing to woodturning and carving. Each artwork—made exclusively for the show— incorporates pieces of Walnut

Creek’s beloved Boundary Oak, providing visitors a rare opportunity to see how artists interpret the same base material in diverse ways. Indigenous to California, Valley Oaks are among the largest of North American oaks and can live up to 600 years. Their trunks and limbs have thick, ridged bark similar to alligator hide and their leaves are covered with soft fuzz that is velvety to the touch. Due to their structure, size, and long lifespans, they are vital to California’s e c o sys t e m , h o s t i n g a n d providing sustenance for a variety of animals and insects. This particular Valley Oak was the centerpiece at Boundary Oak Golf C o u rs e, a p p rox i m a t e l y five miles north of Mount Diablo. Having survived 325 years, the old oak not only experienced dramatic

ecological changes in the area, but also witnessed the colonization of the native Bay Miwok peoples and the modernization of what is now considered the City of Walnut Creek. The tree was alive for the signing of the US Constitution, the Gold Rush Era, the Civil Rights Movement, and countless other historic events that have shaped our country. Symbolizing strength and perseverance, the grand tree captured the hearts of the local community and became the iconic logo for the City of Walnut Creek. General Information Location: Inside the Lesher Center for the Arts at 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek, four blocks south of the Walnut Creek BART station. Te l e p h o n e : ( 9 2 5 ) 2 9 5 1417 Email: galleryinfo@ bedfordgallery.org Website: www.bedfordgallery.org

California Arts Council Awards CC Co Arts And Culture Commission Grants The Arts and Culture Commission of Contra Costa County has been award the following grants from the California Arts Council: Jump StArts ($2,500): The Arts and Culture Commission of Contra Costa County will develop an art project in partnership with Juvenile Hall and the Office of Reentry & Justice to serve system-engaged youth. Link:

https://arts.ca.gov/grant_ program/jump-starts/ Impact Projects ($17,100): Artists partner with local organizations to create a design highlighting systemic/ structural racism, education, p ove r t y, c u l t u ra l / s o c i a l justice, or environmental sustainability in response to COVID-19. Link: https:// arts.ca.gov/grant_program/ impact-projects/

General Operating Relief ($28,500): Staff will support signature community programs and cultural planning efforts to promote equity.Link: https://arts. ca.gov/grant_program/ arts-cultural-organizationsgeneral-operating-relief/ California Arts Council: https://arts.ca.gov/

San Ramon Chamber of Commerce announces the recipients of its 37th Annual Business and Community Awards

Delegates attending Boys State: Matthew Jao, Dougherty Valley High School; Jonathan Ng, Dougherty Valley High School; Aidan Nichols, San Ramon Valley High School; Dylan Purandare, San Ramon Valley High School; Andrew Howard, San Ramon Valley High School; Chad McElroy, Athenian School; Ethan Arnold, Athenian School; Jake Okwubanego, Athenian School; Armin Bozorgi, California High School

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The San Ramon Chamber presented seven awards on Thursday, December 2, 2021: Citizen of the Year, Teen Citizen of the Year, Business Person of the Year, Employees of the Year, Volunteer of the Year, Educator of the Year, and Ambassador of the Year. "The Business and Community Awards event is an opportunity to thank and give appreciation to individuals who have made a s i g n i f i c a n t d i f f e re n c e and contribution in our community," said San Ramon Chamber of Commerce President, Stewart Bambino. "Come and network, enjoy good food and honor those around us who help to make San Ramon an exceptional place to live and work."

The honorees are the following: Citizen of the Year • Vanessa Berastain, San Ramon Valley Education Fo u n d a t i o n , E x e c u t i v e D i r e c t o r, S a n R a m o n Diversity Coalition Steering C o m m i t t e e, S a n R a m o n Culture in the Community (former Chair and current Steering Committee), PTA Leadership Teen Citizen of the Year • R i o Krauss, D o u g h e r t y Va l l e y H i g h School, 12th Grade, San Ramon Valley Unified School District Business Person of the Year • L a u r a S t e i n b e c k , Owner/Founder of Pacific Wealth Planning, Inc.

Employees of the Year • A l l o f o u r F i r s t Responders / San Ramon Law Enforcement Officers, Pa r a m e d i c s , E M T ' s a n d Firefighters. Accepting the Award will be San Ramon Police Chief Craig Stevens and San Ramon Fire Chief Paige Meyer Educator of the Year • C h e r y l K e l l e r , Iron Horse Middle School, Advanced STEAM Te c h n o l o g y, S a n Ra m o n Valley Unified School District Volunteer of the Year • M a r i a C o o p e r , Owner/Founder of Above and Beyond Productions Ambassador of the Year • Peter Niles, Owner/ Fo u n d e r o f E x e c u t i v e Innovation

valleysentinel.com

November 2021

Two Alamo Rotarians Receive the Outstanding Eagle Scout Award on behalf of the National Eagle Scout Association Two m e m b e rs o f t h e Ro t a r y C l u b o f A l a m o , S t e v e Po l c y n a n d J a c k Thompson, were presented the Outstanding Eagle Scout Award on behalf of the National Eagle Scout Association – for their distinguished service since receiving their Eagle awards decades ago and who have “inspired others through their actions by devoting a lifetime to their profession, avocation, community and beliefs at great sacrifice t o t h e m s e l ve s a n d t h e i r families.” The presentation was done by Frank Yoke, Development Director of the Golden Gate Area Council, BSA. He was assisted by Past Rotary District 5160 Governor and Alamo Rotarian Brian Thiessen In each case their service has been outstanding at the local, state or regional and international levels… and each is well known f o r t i re l e s s c o m m i t m e n t to betterment of their communities. Steve received his Eagle in April 1955 in Troop 642, Chicago, and his adult service has included working with a number of health care companies and in the high-tech business. He has been a member of the Rotary Club of Alamo for 20+ years and active in Rotary District 5160. He is a board member and immediate past board

president of RotaCare Bay Area, Inc. He was named Citizen of the Year for Alamo in 2017. He and his wife Sherri now live in Walnut Creek. Jack earned his Eagle in Troop 234, Mt Kisco, N e w Yo r k i n 1 9 6 7 , h a s received the Distinguished Alumnus Award from the University of Arizona, multiple professional society recognitions, was an executive with mining companies in various domestic and international locations and served as the chief executive officer of the Homestake Mining Company. He has been very involved with the John Muir Health System and currently serves on its board of directors. He is a long-time member of the Rotary Club of Alamo and serves as its treasurer and also as treasurer of the

Foundation of the Rotary Club of Alamo. He and his wife Linda live in Danville. Since its founding 50 years ago, the Rotary Club of Alamo has been supporting numerous local and international projects. The Club currently has 40 members. The Club is now meeting on the second and fourth Wednesdays at 12:15 p.m. at Forli’s Restaurant in Alamo. On the first and third Wednesdays the Club is meeting from 5:30-6:30 p.m. at Maguey’s Restaurant in Alamo, just down to the right from Forli (if you are looking towards Forli.). Bring a friend and join us for Alamo Rotary at night! For more information please contact Steve Polcyn, Past President, Rotary Club of Alamo at 925-548-3516 or stevepolcyn@me.com

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L to R: Jack Thompson; Frank Yoke; Steve Polcyn; Brian Thiessen

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Trees with these items still attached cannot be picked up. • Do not leave stands (whether plastic, metal, or wood) on the tree. closed, flocked trees may be placed in your black landfill cart.

Do: Don’t:

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For information, please call 925-820-6047 whenever there has been a visiting cocoschools.org/ need. Our schools can use becomeasub. your help. Yo u c a n h e l p y o u r ludehcSingle S noitcFamily elloC eeHome rT yadCustomers iloH 2202 – –sr2022 emoHoliday tsuC emTree oH ylCollection imaF elgniSchedule S local schools overcome ethis challenge by applying to become a substitute. All you pickup regular service but truck. .kcurt etarapYour es a ytree b tub ecivrewill s egbe abron agthe ralusame ger ruday oy sas a yyour ad em as ehtgarbage no eb lliw pukcip eeby rt rauseparate oY will bes’affected fall .yadrutaS a Regular no llaf yservice eht esua cebnot yaD raeY weNfor dnChristmas a samtsirhand C roNew f detcYear’s effa eDay b tonbecause lliw ecivthey res ra lugon eR a Saturday. need is to have a bachelor’s degree, basic subject-matter Diablo, (including .)saera Week detaroof prJan ocni3–7 nu gnCustomers idulcni( kwainhWalnut kcalB dnCreek, a ,olbaDanville, iD ,omalAAlamo, ,ellivna D ,keerand C tuBlackhawk nlaW ni srem otsuC 7unincorporated – 3 naJ fo keeW areas). proficiency, and a passion for working with students. Week of Jan 10–14.)saCustomers Moraga era detaropin roLafayette, cninu gnidOrinda, ulcni( agand ar o M dna ,ad(including nirO ,et teunincorporated yafa L ni s remot areas). suC 41– 01 naJ fo keeW Being a substitute Week of Jan 17–21 Customers who missed prior tree .nocollection. it celloc eert roirp dessim ohw s remot suC 12–71 naJ fo keeW teacher is a great opportunity for retirees, recent college If possible, cut tree ,desand olc dplace il htiwint organics rac scinagcart ro nwith i ecalid lp dclosed, na e er t t u c ,e l bis s o p f I AFTER Jan 21 1 2 na J R E T F A or call (925) 685-4711 to .schedule fee. eef a rof paupick-up -kcip a efor ludaeh cs ot 1174 - 58 6 )529( llac ro graduates, or those looking for flexible, part-time work. Being a sub is also a great Tree Pickup Do’s & Don’ts st’noD & s’oD pukciP eerT way to see if the education Leave trees at curbside on n o e d i s b r u c t a s e e r t eva e L • Remove lights, ornaments, and tinsel before placing atiscurbside. .ed bruc ta gnicalp erofeb lesnit dna ,stnemanro ,sthgil evomeR • the same day as your regular ma s e ht field is the career for you.raluger ruoy sa yad• eTrees over 8’ must be cut in half. .flah ni tuc eb tsum ’8 revo seerT • collection day, during gnirud ,yad noit celloc Yo u c a n a p p l y t.koeew dengissa s’ y tic ruoy your city’s assigned week. b e a s u b s t i t u t e t e a c .h • T Flocked your garbage atono soc on ta pannual unaelc on-call egabrag llac-no cleanup launna ru y gncost, isu detcelloc eb nac seCOLLECTED ert dekcolF TREES • WILL BE COMPOSTED. D Ee T Sr O P M OC E B L L I W S E E R D ET C ELLtrees OC can be collected,tusing but must be scheduled in advance. dilCall htiw(925) edis685-4711. ni tfi ot tucIffIcut .11to 74fit -58inside 6 )529with ( llaClid .ecnavda ni deludehcs eb tsum tub by contacting your local closed, flocked trees may be placed in your black landfill .traccart. llfidnal kcalb ruoy ni decalp eb yam seert dekcofl ,desolc • Do not leave stands (whether plastic, metal, or wood) s c h o o l d i s t r i c t ’s h u m a n .eert eon ht the no )tree. doow ro ,latem ,citsalp rehtehw( sdnats evael ton oD • Trees with these items still attached cannot be picked up..pu dekcip eb tonnac dehcatta llits smeti eseht htiw seerT resources department or by

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page 5

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Contra Costa County Superintendent of Schools Lynn Mackey asks that those qualified apply to be substitute Teachers Contra Costa Schools are facing a shortage of educators both here and across California. More than 13,500 California teachers retired at the end of last year, about a thousand more than the year before. With this shortage of educators comes a shortage of substitute teachers. This means that in addition to their regular work and the work brought on by the pandemic, teachers and administrators must take in more students and cover classrooms due to the lack of substitutes. As we have seen throughout the pandemic, members of this community have rallied to help each other and fill in the gaps

THE VALLEY SENTINEL

This year, give the gift of support to our small businesses who continue to be the heart of our local community. There are so many reasons why shopping local is the way to go. Our businesses have created safe shopping experiences so that you can find everything on your holiday shopping list locally. Shopping local means most items can be purchased immediately, but many stores also provide online shopping, special orders, gift cards and gift wrapping! With local retailers offering outstanding customer service and expert knowledge, plenty of free parking, and an astounding variety of dining options, Danville is the ideal shopping destination. Whether you choose to visit a store in person, shop online, or pick-up gift cards, please plan to spend locally this holiday season. The Danville Holiday Gift Guide highlights hand-selected gift ideas and promotions to make it even easier to save money and time and shop local! Share the QR code with your friends and family and find an online copy of the guide on the Town’s website. It’s a bright idea to support local as you Eat, Drink, & Be Merry! This holiday season let’s all help to Keep Danville Merry & Bright by Supporting our Local Businesses.

Games Unlimited

810 Sycamore Valley Rd. Danville, CA 94526 925-838-6358 www.gamesunlimitedonline.com

Goat Racer Coffee

281 Hartz Ave. Danville, CA 94526 925-217-4857 www.goatracercoffeeco.com

Danville Chocolates

175 E. Prospect Ave. Danville, CA 94526 925-314-0001 www.danvillechocolates.com

Whim House

485 Hartz Ave. Danville, CA 925-718-5533 www.whimhouse.com

Christe James Fine Jewelry Works 412 Hartz Ave. Danville, CA 94526 925-552-0310 www.christejames.com

A Celebration of Holidays in the Valley As in years past the museum

Hazy Barbeque

200 Hartz Ave. Danville, CA 94526 925-272-0445 www.hazybarbeque.com

Rakestraw Books

3 Railroad Ave. Danville, CA 94526 925-837-7337 www.rakestrawbooks.com

In the spirit of the season the Museum of the San Ramon Valley has opened a new exhibit Holidays in the Valley. This exhibit shows how two valley cultures celebrate their holidays. One the traditional Christmas holiday the other Chinese New Year. Both take place in the winter season and each are a valued and important part of the of their culture. Learn about why we sing Christmas carols. Why are red envelopes given out at Chinese new year? Understand the many traditions that make these holidays an important part of their cultures. These and many more interesting facts related to these holidays are covered in the exhibit.

will have the Polar Express running as well a large Christmas tree and lots of other holidays decorations and cheer. We will also have lots of interesting and informative decorations celebrating Chinese new year. As you visit the many great downtown shops, eat in one of the many great restaurants or are just downtown take a moment out and visit this fun family exhibit celebrating the greatest time of the year! Join us in a celebration of Holidays in the Valley. The Museum of the San Ramon Valley is located at 205 Railroad Ave Danville CA 94526. The museum is now open. Our hours are Tuesday-Friday 1-3 Saturday 10-1 and Sunday 12-3.

Cottage Jewel

391 Hartz Ave. Danville, CA 94526 925-837-2664 www.Cottage Jewel.com

Beyond Active Quantum Escapes – Escape Rooms 391 Diablo Rd., Unit 101 Danville, CA 94526 925-263-2241 www.quantumescapes.com

166 East Prospect Ave. Danville, CA 94526 925-854-2862 www.shopbeyondactive.com

www.danville.ca.gov

Senior Living page 8

Jun

valleysentinel.com

November 2021

When is the right time to consider memory care?

By Tami Anastasia, M.A.

When taking care of a loved one with dementia, one of the most difficult decisions family caregivers have to make is whether to place their loved one in a care community, and where and when to place them. This can be an excruciating decision because there are so many emotions and feelings involved. It ultimately comes down to 4 factors: 1) safety, 2) what the primary caregiver can manage, 3) finances, and 4) your loved one’s care needs. To help you determine when is the right time to place someone living with dementia in memory care, I have put together some questions for you to keep in mind as the disease progresses and as your loved one’s needs change. The answers to these questions will give you a realistic idea of your situation. Below are some questions to ask yourself: • Is your loved one safe living at home? For example, is he/she a high fall risk because of their balance or are they disoriented and confused as to where they are? • Do you worry about your safety? • Are your loved one’s

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behaviors becoming more difficult to manage? • Are they incontinent a n d / o r h av i n g t o i l e t i n g accidents daily? • Is it becoming more difficult to provide hygiene care for your loved one? For example, are they refusing to bathe, brush their teeth, change their clothes etc.? • Are they becoming more frustrated, agitated, angry or hostile? • I s y o u r p h y s i c a l health being affected by taking care of your loved one? For example, are you having heart palpitations, increased blood pressure, uncontrolled diabetes, rashes, twitches, headaches or stomach aches? • Do you find yourself g e t t i n g a n g r y, i r r i t a b l e, anxious, or agitated frequently? • Are you weepy or crying frequently? • Is it becoming more difficult for you to get out of bed to care for your loved one? • Are you sleep deprived as a result of taking care of your loved one? • If your loved one fell, would you be able to help them up without hurting yourself? • A r e y o u a b l e t o

provide the ongoing cognitive and physical stimulation they need? • Are you able to keep up with what is necessary to maintain your home, health, f i n a n c e s, re l a t i o n s h i p s / friendships, social activities, hobbies/interests, your professional work? • Are they wandering – fleeing out the door without any warning? • Are their needs beyond what you can physically control and handle? For example, are they physically aggressive, having violent outbursts, anxiously pacing, verbally abusive, resistant to care, sleep deprived? If you answered yes to several of these questions, it may be time for you to consider moving your loved one into a care community. Where and when you place them is going to vary from person to person. Below are some specific indicators that suggest it’s time to move your loved one into a care community or increase the care at home: • Safety. If you and/or your loved one’s safety is in jeopardy. • Wandering. If your

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loved one starts to wander. If they are getting out of the house without you realizing it. This can be a life – threatening situation. People with dementia who wander may not be able to find their way back home and get lost. • Recurring infections. Your loved one is having recurring infections, such as a urinary tract infection. • P a i n : D o t h e y complain about pain or flinch when you touch them? • M e d i c a t i o n m a n a g e m e n t . T h ey a re refusing to take their medication. • Mobility or balance issues. They’re falling more, unstable on their feet, having difficulty getting out of a chair. • Their health is declining. Increase in chronic diseases such as urinary tract infections, diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, cancer, stenosis, confusion, wounds/sores, swallowing and digestive issues, bowel and bladder control. • Your health is declining. For example, increased stress, depression, isolation, heart irregularities, increased blood pressure, angry, agitated, tearful, sleep deprived, poor physical hygiene. • Apathy. Your loved has lost all interest and motivation in people, places and things they once enjoyed.

• Self – care. You’re neglecting taking care of yourself or your family, cancelling meeting with friends, and/or your professional work is suffering. It’s very difficult to think about, or contemplate a move like this. Especially if your loved one has begged you in the past to never ‘put me in a home’. You have done the best you can, but there comes a time when professional help is truly necessary. There are ways to make the move easier and less stressful for both of you and provide the needed care as well as relief for you. Once you have evaluated the situation and think it might be time to consider a memory care community, the next step is finding the right place for your loved one. Tami Anastasia, M.A. is a dementia consultant and educator. She has a private c o u n s e l i n g p ra c t i c e a n d provides in person, online and phone support, guidance and care strategies for families caring for a loved one living with Alzheimer’s and dementia. In addition, Tami facilitates numerous Bay Area Dementia Caregiver Support Groups and has partnered with agencies to conduct monthly educational workshops, trainings, and webinars. Contact Tami at (408) 377-4716, or email her at: tamswellness@gmail. com, or on her website: www. tamianastasia.com.

FAQ About Our Family Caregiver Education Series Our Family Caregiver Education Series is available to any member of the community who is currently e n g a g i n g a s a c a re g i ve r to a loved one living with a terminal diagnosis or a disabling chronic condition, regardless of whether your loved one is a Hope Hospice patient. The 12 interactive webinars cover a variety of topics and provide education, support, and resources relevant to family caregivers. Four of the webinars are dedicated to caring for a loved one who is living with dementia. Webinars are offered to the community for free, though donations are greatly appreciated and help us offset the cost of running the program.

All interactive webinars are presented using the Zoom application. Participants will instructions on how to log on. need the following equipment: Personal computer or tablet with Internet and speakers. If you have any questions or need further information about using Zoom, check out our Family Caregiver Education Series FAQ. Classes are offered to the community for free, though donations are greatly appreciated and help us offset the cost of running the program. You can contribute at HopeHospice.com/donate. Can I register for individual webinars? See CAREGIVER page 9

valleysentinel.com

November 2021

NBC Bay Area/Safeway Annual Food Drive is happening through December 25 The Kiwanis Club of The San Ramon Valley is supporting The Food Bank Of Contra Costa and Solano The Kiwanis Club of San Ramon Valleyare teaming team up again with NBC Bay Area and Safeway Grocery Stores to help support the 17th annual Food Drive. On November 20th and with help from over 30 volunteers, including Key Club high schoolers, members of the National Charity League, Boys Team Charities, and friends/family, the Kiwanis Club will be encouraging shoppers to make a donation to the Food Bank at checkout. Safeway will have scannable tickets at every cash register, that will be a $10 donation to the Food Bank of Contra Costa/Solano. Every donation will go directly to help provide food to our neighbors most in need this holiday season. Kiwanis will be matching donations made at the four Safeway locations in the San Ramon Valley, up to $1,000.00 per store. “ We a r e e x c i t e d t o participate in the NBC Bay Area/Safeway Food Drive this year. We missed seeing

everyone in 2020, and while the world is getting closer to normal, people are still hungry and need extra help, especially with the holidays coming up” says Nancy Bray, Chair of the Kiwanis 2021 Food Drive. Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to changing the world one child and one community at a time. Founded in 1915 in Detroit and with headquarters now in Indianapolis, Kiwanis International is a thriving organization of service and community minded individuals who support children and young adults around the world. More than 600,000 Kiwanis family members in 96 countries make their mark by responding to the needs of their communities and pooling their resources to address worldwide issues. Additional information may be obtained on the K i w a n i s w e b s i t e : w w w. srvkiwanis.org.

THE VALLEY SENTINEL

CARETAKER from page 8

Yes. Participants may sign up for any or all interactive webinars. Registration is o n g o i n g t h ro u g h o u t t h e series. If you are planning to attend multiple webinars, you need to register for each one. How do I register? Register online at HopeHospice.com/family or send an email to Debbie Emerson, Community Health Educator. Once you have registered for a webinar, you will receive a confirmation email with instructions for joining and a link to the webinar. You will also receive a reminder email the day before the webinar. Is there a registration deadline? Yes. Please register for individual webinars no later than 8 a.m. on the morning of the webinar. Remember that registration for the series is on-going, so you will need to register for each webinar that you want to attend. How much do the webinars cost? Hope Hospice does not charge for our community e d u c a t i o n ; h o w e v e r, donations are greatly appreciated and help us offset the costs of running the programs. You can contribute

at HopeHospice.com/donate. Does my family member ( c a re re c i p i e n t ) h a v e t o be “on hospice” for me to participate? N o . T h i s p ro g ra m i s designed for any individual who is caring for an elderly or chronically ill individual family member or other loved one. Is this program open to professional (paid) caregivers? This program is tailored to the family caregiver and is not intended for the professional caregiver; Hope Hospice does not offer any certifications or continuing education credits. When are the webinars held? Live webinars are held on one Thursday morning each month (see schedule on registration page for specific dates). Presentations will start promptly at 10 a.m.; participants are encouraged to join at 9:45 a.m. to ensure that all of their equipment is operational. Most presentations will last until 11:30 a.m., and there will be an opportunity for a question-and-answer session until noon. What type of computer equipment is needed to join a webinar?

page 9

You can either use your personal computer or tablet to participate, as long as you have Internet access, speakers, and camera capability on your device. Although smartphones can also use Zoom, the small screen display is not conducive to our program. I am unable to join the live webinars at the times listed. Will the presentations be posted? Yes. The presentation portion (minus the Q&A) will be recorded and posted on Hope Hospice’s website within a week of t h e p re s e n t a t i o n . A l i s t containing links to the resources mentioned in the presentation will also be posted. I have never used Zoom before. Are there any online tutorials for beginners? Yes. Many tutorials can be found on YouTube. Two that we recommend: • J o i n i n g a Z o o m Call for the First Time https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=9isp3qPeQ0E • Zoom Help Center https://support.zoom.us/hc/ en-us/categories/200101697 Prior to participating, please create a free Zoom account at: https://zoom.us/

page 10

THE VALLEY SENTINEL

AUTO March 2009 November 2021

valleysentinel.com

2021 Honda Ridgeline AWD Sport HPD Photos and story by David Colman

Leave the rough riding, leaf spring, solid rear axle domestic pickups to Urban Cowboys. Honda has a better solution to taming bucking bronco truck behavior. Their 2021 Ridgeline, based on the platform of their Pilot SUV, is fully independently sprung, with coils at each corner. That design refinement makes Ridgeline the choice of Suburban Cowboys. Just in case truck diehards don't feel enough kinship with the Ridgeline's sophisticated underpinnings, Honda offers a visual enhancement package sure to entice lariat ropers everywhere. They call this the HPD Package, which retails for an extra $2,800 over and above the AWD Sport's base price of $36,490. The extra charge covers a set of black fender flares which set off brass tinted 18 inch HPD alloy rims backspaced to fill out the extended fender flares.

The intricately crafted BBS-like rims looked particularly good against the Radiant Red Metallic paint of our test Honda. They're fitted with Firestone Destination LE2 radials (245/60R18) that are mud and snow rated. Further HPD enhancements consist of tasteful HPD bedside graphics, blacked out front grill, and affiliated decals and plaques to inform onlookers that this Ridgeline is something special. Given the sophistication of its suspension, it comes as no surprise that the all-wheel-drive Ridgeline masters bad pavement without so much as a flinch. On one stretch of appallingly bumpy back road, the Ridgeline coped with jarring ups and downs as though they didn't exist. The steering always felt Honda-precise, the Firestones never lost

grip on the corrugated road surface, and the Ridgeline stayed glued to nasty pavement that would have befuddled lesser trucks. Helping seal the driving deal is the Ridgeline's torquey and responsive 3.5 liter V6 VTEC engine which feeds 280hp to all 4 corners through a paddle shifted 9-speed automatic transmission. All four models of Ridgeline (Sport, RTL, RTL-E and Black edition) boast V6 motors and standard AWD. The Sport model we drove was fitted with manually adjustable leatherette and cloth seats. If heated, power adjustable leather front seats are necessary, you will have to bump up to the RTL model, which carries a premium of close to $4,000 over and above the base price of the Sport. The Ridgeline is tow rated at 5,000lbs. This limit puts it at a significant disadvantage to other small pickups like the Toyota Tacoma (6,400lbs), Chevy Colorado (7,000lbs.), Ford Ranger (7,500lbs.), Jeep Gladiator (7,650lbs.). So if trailering is a priority, you might want to look elsewhere. Among these contenders, however, only the Honda's 50 inch wide bed will tote a 4'x8' sheet of building material flat in back. The Ridgeline's unique practicality also scores points over the competition with its lockable 7.3 cubic foot,

weather tight storage bin hidden beneath the floor of the 5'3" long bed. Inside the cabin, 109 cubic feet of space make life easier for transporting passengers or loads. The 60/40 split rear seats fold flat against the rear cabin partition to provide plenty of weather and theft proof storage inside the cabin. We were able to transport a mountain bike sideways inside the cabin with no disassembly needed. Unlike so many small trucks that become a chore to drive and park, the SUVderived Ridgeline allows you to deal with the suburban maze effortlessly. With a zero to sixty mph run of 6.5 seconds, and a standing start quarter mile sprint of 15 seconds at 92mph, it's quick enough in a straight line to conquer passing situations and freeway merges without delay. It also returns 21MPG in overall driving, which is better than all other compact pickups save the 24MPG Diesels from Chevy (Colorado) and GMC (Canyon).

Town Allocates Federal Funds to Support Community Services On October 5, 2021, the Danville Town Council met to consider how to allocate Coronavirus Local Fiscal Recovery Funds that were received as a part of the $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) of 2021. The Town has received $5.3 million and is eligible to receive up to $10.6 million in Recovery Funds over the next two years. Funds are intended to help partially offset Town revenue losses due to the economic impacts resulting from the Coronavirus pandemic. The Town Council action will allocate $1.65 million of these funds to support community programs and partnerships that will address high priority needs and help spur economic recovery.

Program funds allocated include: Mental Health - $250,000 to identify and support local a n d / o r re g i o n a l s e r v i c e providers with initiatives to address pandemic-induced social isolation, provide mental health services/assistance or improve response to behavioral health crises. Homeless Services – $100,000 to identify and support local, regional and/or county programs and services that shelter, feed and care for our homeless population. Senior Services - $500,000 to implement measures and recommendations identified to support seniors through the “Age-Friendly Roadmap”

currently being developed by the Town Senior Advisory Commission. Partnership funds awarded include: Danville Area Chamber of Commerce - $150,000 to support Danville businesses to facilitate economic recovery and growth and broaden the local economic base. Discovery Counseling Center, Danville - $100,000 to support community mental health and wellness services. Meals on Wheels Diablo Region - $100,000 to support services that promote independence and health for seniors. Danville Library Foundation - $100,000 to

support broadened and enhanced services offered through the Danville Library. Friends of the Danville Library - $100,000 to provide materials, programs and services for the Danville Library. Museum of theSan Ramon Valley - $100,000 to support efforts to preserve the heritage and history of the San Ramon Valley. S a n R a m o n Va l l e y Education Foundation - $100,000 to support public education with programs that assist children. Down Syndrome Connection of the Bay Area, Danville - $100,000 to provide resources and support for people with Down Syndrome and their families.

When Honda recently restyled the Ridgeline by eliminating its slanted bedside buttresses in favor of more conventional flat topped side rails, the pickup lost much of its visual panache in favor of loading practicality. But Honda has reclaimed this truck's idiosyncratic identity with the sharp looking HPD Package. The bronze alloy rims and sizeable graphics leave no doubt that this distinctive pickup is a Honda product. 2021 HONDA RIDGELINE AWD SPORT HPD ENGINE: 3.5 liter V6, VTEC with Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) H O R S E P OW E R : 280hp@6000rpm TO R Q U E : 2 6 2 l b. ft.@4700rpm FUEL CONSUMPTION: 18MPG City/24MPG Highway PRICE AS TESTED: $40,860 HYPES: Big Rig Horn, Sweet Motor/Gearbox GRIPES: Luddite Tailgate STAR RATING: 8.5 Stars out of 10

Eugene O’NeillFoundation - $50,000 to support literature, theater and the arts. “This is a good step in providing the care and assistance our community needs as we continue on the road to recovery from the pandemic,” said Danville Mayor Renee Morgan. “We are very pleased that we will be able to put these federal recovery funds into action across a broad spectrum of identified needs.” With the Council’s action, the appropriated ARPA funds are expected to be distributed by the end of October. For more information, contact Public Information Officer Nicola Shihab at (925) 314-3336 or nshihab@danville.ca.gov.

valleysentinel.com

November 2021

THE VALLEY SENTINEL

Lend a Hand this Holiday Season By Candace Andersen. Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors

With the holiday season approaching, many residents of our District in Contra Costa County are interested in helping those in need throughout the community. With the effects of COVID-19 continuing to play a role in all our lives, there are many organizations working tirelessly to help the less fortunate. The County partners with several programs, outlined below. The Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano Counties is an essential service that distributes food directly to people in need through their many programs. One in nine residents look to the food bank for emergency and supplemental food. There are several ways to donate and help. Visit foodbankccs.org to learn more about hosting a virtual food drive, making a monetary or food donation or advocating on behalf of the food bank. Monetary donations are preferred over canned goods. Every dollar provides the Food Bank with $3 in buying power, providing two full meals. Contra Costa and Solano Counties have been competing for the last 18 years for the prized Big Apple Trophy in the “Counties Care Food Fight” to raise money for the Food Bank. The challenge runs through December 21. The trophy goes back and forth, but the real winners are the food insecure of both Contra Cost and Solano counties. More than $1.7M has been raised by the two counties to help feed the community. The Contra Costa Board of Supervisors compete among themselves to raise the most donations, with the winner getting to take home the Little Apple Trophy. Visit the Food Bank’s website at www. foodbankccs.org to sign up to volunteer. Donate to the Food Bank in support of District 2 at https://give.foodbankccs. org/team/326116. VESTIA (Volunteer & Emergency Services Team in Action), is a non-profit organization that serves individuals and families re c e i v i n g b e n e f i t s f ro m Contra Costa County’s

Employment and Human Services Department (EHSD). The organization serves as a safety net for low-income children and families in Contra Costa County and provides supplemental support to clients when other resources are not available. In Contra Costa County, approximately 1,800 children are in the foster care system. The holidays are a particularly difficult time for foster kids. The Angel Tree program was created in 1990 to provide gifts including specific requests of children in out-of-home placement in Contra Costa County. Each child is asked what his or her gift wishes are, and generous “Angels” provide those gifts in response to the specific wishes. Due to the generosity of donors in local communities, over the past two decades, thousands of foster children and teenagers have received gifts and the acknowledgement that they are not forgotten. If you would like to be involved in the Angel Tree Program, please call 925.521.5064. For more information, please call Volunteer & Emergency Services at 925.655.1208 or visit their website at www. vestiainc.org. The Winter Nights Family Shelter program helps to protect, shelter, and support homeless families throughout Contra Costa County. Many religious congregations throughout the County provide space, meals, and volunteers on a two-week rotating basis to homeless families in Contra Costa. Shelters are always supervised by professional staff. The Winter Nights program has family-centric goals and works to provide shelter and food to homeless f a m i l i e s t h ro u g h o u t t h e winter, help homeless families find sustainable housing, keep homeless children in school and help them achieve at grade level, encourage reading habits, and keep homeless families together during the stressful period of homelessness. To donate or for more information about the program, visit their website at www.cccwinternights.org, or call 925.933.6030. The Contra Costa Crisis Center is a nonprofit organization committed to providing free 24/7 services to everyone in need. Staff provide 211 services, grief support, mobile crisis response, training, homeless services, and family support. 211 is the national toll-free phone number to call 24 hours per day for information

about local health and social services, enabling people to find out about valuable and up to date resources in their community. Volunteers work year-round to keep people alive and safe, helping them work through crises, and connecting them with culturally relevant resources in the community. The organization also sponsors the Help Me Grow program – a system focused on early detection, referral, and treatment for children with developmental or behavioral concerns, and the Share the Spirit Grant Making Project. You can donate to the Contra Costa Crisis Center with a monetary gift or by shopping at their Leftovers Thrift Shop, which is a minidepartment store benefiting the Crisis Center located at 2281 Olympic Boulevard in Walnut Creek. To donate online, visit www.crisiscenter.org. The Contra Costa Housing Security Fund is a county-wide community fund that covers costs that would prevent many residents, from getting back into housing. The program works with seniors, veterans, and families to put a stop to homelessness throughout the County. The fund also protects participating property owners who offer screened renters an opportunity for housing. The Contra Costa Continuum of Care homeless service providers distribute the funds. Donations to the Contra Costa Housing Security Fund can help end homelessness. To donate online, visit www. fundraise.richmondcf.org/ give/99297/#!/donation/ checkout. For questions about the fund, please email homelessprogram@hsd. cccounty.us.

The Monument Crisis C e n t e r ’ s 2 0 21 H o l i d a y Fo o d B ox d r i ve s t a r t e d on November 21, 2021. To see the list of suggested items for a trimming box, o r f o r m o re i n f o r m a t i o n a b o u t t h e o rg a n i z a t i o n , visit their website at www. monumentcrisiscenter.org. All boxes will be provided to the working poor and low income with support, addressing essential needs that can include providing food and medical or dental care. I’ve identified just a few of the many organizations making a difference in the

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lives of those less fortunate in our community. There are many other groups that could also use your support. If you have the means to do so, please don’t hesitate to generously give to those, as well, this holiday season. My office is here to serve the residents of Contra Costa County District 2, which includes San Ramon, Danville, A l a m o , Wa l n u t C r e e k , Saranap, Parkmead, Lafayette, Moraga, Canyon and Orinda. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if we can provide you with additional information on this topic or on other County issues. I can be reached at SupervisorAndersen@bos. cccounty.us or (925) 957-8860.

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Contra Costa Recycles

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THE VALLEY SENTINEL November 2021

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