The Valley Sentinel_Sept 2015

Sentinel Newspapers, Inc.390 Diablo Road, Ste. 145Danville, CA 94526925-820-6047

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Alamo • Danville • Blackhawk • Diablo • San Ramon

VOl 20, nO 8 September 2015 www.valleysentinel.comalways for the community SENTINELTHE ALLEYVSPOTLIGHT

Find out what’s new in the Valley at

www.valleysentinel.com

Arts • Activities • Auto • Business • Gardening • Seniors and more...

See KITEpage 5

This month’s Special Section:

Fall Home and GardenFall Home and Garden

The White-tailed Kite is perhaps our most elegant raptor due to its striking coloration. It is often mistaken for a gull with its overall white plumage, highlighted by a black shoulder patch, silvery-gray wing coverts and tips. The sexes are alike. The black “eyeliner” becomes apparent at close range. A broad, diffuse, rufous band with spots on the breast and brown gray back of juveniles is diagnostic. The adult plumage is acquired in the fi rst winter. Juvenile birds have yellow brown eyes while the adults are bright scarlet. The crow sized White-tailed Kite has an almost buoyant fl ight as it soars and glides over the landscape. It has sometimes been referred to as the “Angel” hawk because of its appearance of “fl oating” in the air. They are frequently seen along

the highway 680 corridor hovering in pursuit of prey. Grasslands, oak savannahs, and marshlands are preferred foraging habitats where they hunt for small rodents, especially California voles, insects, and other prey. When prey is located as they hover overhead from fi fty to one hundred feet, White-tailed Kites do not dive or stoop, as do other raptors. Rather they glide downward feet fi rst, to seize their prey before swooping upward, a technique known as kiting. It has about an 80% hunting success rate. In fl ight the wings are usually held upward in a dihedral, sometimes with the tips pointed downward in gull fashion. Soft, repetitive vocalizations are heard year-

round, particularly when hunting or near the nest sites.

Shooting, egg-collecting, destruction of foraging habitat, and perhaps downturns in the cycles of rodent populations in the 1930’s and 1940’s resulted in the almost extinction of White-tailed Kites in California. Fortunately in recent years, populations have recovered, although distribution is patchy. In the San Ramon Valley, White-tailed Kites are a fairly

common backyard nesting species. The tops of live oaks or conifers are preferred trees, where they construct medium-sized stick nests high in the crown on thin branches. Most egg clutches consist of four beautifully marked eggs, formerly coveted by egg-collectors. The creamy white eggs are blotched with varying shades of warm brown. The

White-tailed KiteBy James Hale

Fall Home and GardenFall Home and GardenFall Home and GardenFall Home and GardenFall Home and GardenFall Home and GardenFall Home and GardenFall Home and GardenFall Home and GardenFall Home and GardenFall Home and GardenFall Home and GardenFall Home and GardenFall Home and GardenFall Home and GardenFall Home and GardenFall Home and GardenFall Home and GardenFall Home and GardenFall Home and GardenFall Home and GardenFall Home and GardenFall Home and GardenFall Home and GardenFall Home and GardenFall Home and GardenFall Home and GardenFall Home and GardenFall Home and GardenFall Home and GardenFall Home and GardenFall Home and GardenFall Home and GardenFall Home and GardenFall Home and GardenFall Home and GardenFall Home and Gardenpages 8 - 9

On Sunday, October 4 The Save Mount Diablo Challenge bike ride will kick off at Athenian School in Danville and climb up Southgate Rd to the summit of Mount Diablo. All proceeds benefi t Save Mount Diablo’s land conservation efforts to create a national park-sized wilderness in your backyard for you, wildlife and future generations to enjoy. For event info go to www.savemountdiablo.org/activities_events_chal.html.

Monte Vista High School started off the new school year by welcoming a new principal, Dr. Kevin Ahern. Mr. Ahern was announced to be the new principal after a couple of quick changes that

took place over the summer, but his road to this job was not that fast. Ahern says his aspiration was that “when I graduated from college, I was going to be a college football coach”. He adds that he realized the job was less rewarding than he initially thought and that it was “not going to work”. Instead, he says he decided to get

Monte Vista welcomes new principal

See PRINCIPALpage 5

By Paulina Fischer, Photo by Imran Ali

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENTdining out • music • art • theater • fun events

page 2 The Valley SenTinel September 2015 valleysentinel.comJohn Brown – Digital

AlternativesNow – September 10John Brown didn’t have

to decide between color and black and white when he took

his pictures. He took both, and asks the viewer to decide which is better. 1661 Botelho Drive, Suite 110, Walnut Creek. www.valleyartgallery or (925) 935-4311.

You’re invited to the

Business Expo & Mixerat The Bridges Golf Club

9000 S. Gale Ridge Road in San Ramonin the Garden Pavilion

September 17, 2015 5:00pm - 7:30pm

Social Media Seminar in the Fireside Room 4:30pm - 6:00pm

For more information about the event, including the seminar, registration, booth space, sponsorships and more, please visit

www.sanramon.orgEnjoy food and drink while networking with over

50 vendors and 350 Tri-Valley attendees!!

September 9, 23 and October 7at 6pm sharp

2085 San Ramon Valley Blvd.*San Ramon 925.498.6590*across from Kelly Moore Paints

Professional Auction EstimatesRegular Hours:Monday - Friday 10am to 6pm (preview any time during these hours)

Saturday by Appointment

Just like on T.V.!

Auction • Auction • Auction

Open to the Public

Now Accepting Fine Consignment Items

Saturdays, 9AM - 1PM

Railroad Ave. & Prospect Ave.

PCFMA.org • 1.800.949.FARM

Danville Art and Antique Faire, Relics on Railroad

September 79am – 3pmIf you love the ageless

beauty of antiques, you won’t want to miss Danville’s Art and Antique Faire. Discover timeless treasures from local antique dealers and artists. For a nominal fee, you can find out how much your heirloom is worth at the Museum of the San Ramon Valley’s antique appraisal clinic. Free and open to the public. Railroad Ave. Municipal Parking Lot at Prospect Downtown. To learn more, contact Marcia Harmon from the Cottage Jewel at (925) 837-2664. www.discoverdanvilleca.com

A Streetcar Named Desire Film Screening

September 107:30 pm. A screening

of the classic 1951 film adaptation of Tennessee Williams’ Pulitzer Prize winning play. Winner of four Academy Awards. Starring Marlon Brando, Vivien Leigh, and Kim Hunter. Presented as part of the Eugene O’Neill festival. Admission is $10. Village Theater, 233 Front Street, Danville. www.villagetheatreshows.com.

Float, Flutter, FlySeptember 115-7pm. Be prepared to

take to the sky with amazing flights of fancy as the Town of Danville presents Float, Flutter, Fly, an art exhibition opening on September 11, 2015 at the Village Theatre & Art Gallery. Live harp music by Larisa Smirnova will be the entertainment to accompany the viewing of artwork. Complimentary wine and hors d’oeuvres will served. As always, this event is free and open to the public.

Original artwork in a variety of mediums will be on view, showcasing the talent of established Bay Area artists whose work all has a common element of feathered and winged creatures. Village Theater, 233 Front St, Danville. (925) 314-3400 or www.facebook.com/Danvillevillagetheatre

A Streetcar Named Desire September 11, 12, 17,

19 at 8pm. Matinee on September 6, 13 at 2pm with Post show discussion.

In this year’s Eugene O’Neill Festival, we experience desire through the eyes of two of America’s greatest playwrights. We explore the drives behind our desires with productions of O’Neill’s Desire Under the Elms and Tennessee

Williams’ A Streetcar Named Desire with fully staged productions & more. Admission is $28. Village Theater at 233 Front Street, Danville. Information and tickets at www.eugeneoneill.org.

The Concert at Bishop Ranch

September 117 – 9pm. Spend an

evening with one of the most popular bands on the Bay Area music scene. Come early to purchase dinner from a gourmet food truck and enjoy a picnic on the lawn. It’s the perfect - and free - family night of fun! Free. Bishop Ranch 1, 6111 Bollinger Canyon Road, San Ramon. www.bishopranch.com

Eugene O’Neill: Evolution of an Artist

September 122 – 3pm. O’Neill

Foundation Director of Artistic Programming Eric Fraisher Hayes presents an encore presentation of his recent Oregon Shakespeare Festival Lecture. He has directed or produced nearly 20 O’Neill plays, and provides insights into the life and plays of Eugene O’Neill. Admission is $10. Museum of the San Ramon Valley, 205 Railroad Ave., Danville. Information and tickets at www.eugeneoneill.org

The Secrets of O’Neill Walking Tour

September 123:30pm. An hour-long

walking tour providing stories about O’Neill and his days in Danville and Tao House. Begins at Museum of the San Ramon Valley (205 Railroad Ave.) and ends up at the O’Neill Commemorative on Front Street near the Danville Library. Free. www.eugeneoneill.org

Autos of Alamo Car Show

September 124 - 8pm. Come and

see vintage cars, trucks, hot rods, customs, classics

valleysentinel.com September 2015 The Valley SenTinel page 3

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENTdining out • music • art • theater • fun events

Drew Harrison: In the Spirit of Lennon

October 3 8pm. In celebration

of John Lennon’s 75th birthday,’The Sun Kings’ Drew Harrison presents an intimate acoustic evening celebrating the life and music of John Lennon. Admission is $25. Village Theater, 233 Front Street, Danville. www.villagetheatreshows.com

Quilt Show presented by Delta Quilters

October 3 & 410am to 4pm. Stop

in and enjoy the exhibits, demonstrations, and food. Get some holiday shopping done early by visiting the boutique and vendors. Tickets $20, free for adults over 80 and children under 12. Brentwood Community Center, 35 Oak Street, Brentwood. www.deltaquilters.org

Walnut Creek First Wednesdays

October 7 and every fi rst Wednesday through June 2016

5-8pm. Walnut Creek

V3 HopfestSeptember 1912 – 5pm. Your choice

of 30, 60, or 100 mile rides through the majestic foothills of Mount Diablo, the San Ramon Valley and the Livermore Valley and 20 craft breweries, live music, food trucks and more! Admission is $35. 2600 Camino Ramon, San Ramon. V3hopfest.com

Danville d’Elegance September 2011am – 4pmEnjoy an exciting

afternoon of cars for a cause at Danville d’Elegance, Danville’s premier charitable event benefi ting the Parkinson’s Institute. Visit fi ne wine and food stations throughout the event, and learn more about Parkinson’s Disease and how your contributions can help fi nd a cure. Admission is free, but donations are encouraged. Hartz Avenue, Danville. www.danville-delegance.org.

Monthly Vintage and Craft Market

September 2710:30am – 2:30pm.

Support small, local business and shop for unique items at our monthly craft & vintage market. Featuring different vendors each month. Furniture, Jewelry, Soaps, Art, Clothing, Food, and More! Create community and have a good time. Parking Lot outside of Suburban Peacock at 3150 Danville Blvd., Alamo.

Tinsel and Treasures Folk Art

October 310am – 3pm. Come

one, Come all to discover amazing seasonal notions and novelties, whimsy and wonderment. Discover a magical showcase of 35 renowned mixed-media artisans and creative spirits offering a diverse array of one-of-a-kind, original handmade works of art, jewelry, antique artifacts, hard to fi nd vintage supplies, handbags, home decor, folk art, ceramics, children’s furnishings and both Halloween and Christmas holiday decorations. Free. Danville Senior Center, 115 E. Prospect, Danville. www.discoverdanvilleca.com

and antiques. The show, sponsored by The Alamo Improvement Association will take place at Alamo Plaza, at Danville Blvd. and Stone Valley Road. www.alamoca.org.

Evening at the Bistro – Lindsay Wildlife

September 13 5 - 11pm. Lindsay

Wildlife Experience hosts a delightful evening of fi ne food, fi ne wine, fi ne company and the opportunity to bid on unique auction items in Va de Vi’s magnifi cent courtyard. All proceeds benefi t Lindsay Wildlife Experience’s wild animal rehabilitation and community education programs. Va de Vi Bistro & Wine Bar, 1511 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Walnut Creek. $125.00 per ticket. Get tickets at lindsaywildlife.org/events/sixth-annual. For more information visit lindsaywildlife.org/vadevi/ or call (925) 935-1978.

Desire Under The ElmsSeptember 18 8 - 10pm. In this year’s

Eugene O’Neill Festival, we experience desire through the eyes of two of America’s greatest playwrights. We explore the drives behind our desires with productions of O’Neill’s Desire Under the Elms and Tennessee Williams’ A Streetcar Named Desire with fully staged productions and more. Tickets are $35. Old Barn, Tao House at Eugene O’Neill National Historic Site, Danville. Accessible only by National Park Service shuttle from the Museum of the San Ramon Valley, 205 Railroad Avenue. Tickets and information at www.eugeneoneill.org

100 Years of DesireSeptember 192pm. A lively panel

discussion of desire as depicted in theatre, literature, and cinema and theatre over the last century. This event is presented at the Tao House as part of the 2015 Eugene O’Neill Festival. The Tao house is only accessible by shuttle. Admission is $15. Information at eugeneoneill.org

Saturday, October 3, 201510 am - 4 pm • $5 admission

Veterans Memorial Hall400 Hartz Ave.

A Magical Holiday Boutiquefeaturing 35 Folk Artists

8th AnnualFolk Art Show

Sept 7th, Labor Day, 9am-3pmby the Museum of the San Ramon Valley

-

80 antique, vintage & artisan booths-Appraisal Clinic

-Live music & fun

Relics on Railroad9th Annual

Antique & Art Faire

15th Anniversary SaleSep. 7 thru Oct. 3

2015 Historic Downtown Danville

A Trip Worth Taking

Delta Quilters’ 23rd Annual Harvest on the Delta

QUILT SHOW OCTOBER 3 & 4, 2015

Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Tickets $10. Under 12 and over 80 free

BRENTWOOD COMMUNITY CENTER

EXHIBITS * DEMONSTRATIONS VENDORS * BOUTIQUE*

GIFT BASKETS * FOOD SERVICE BY NATURE’S BOUNTY *

FREE PARKING www.deltaquilters.org

35 OAK STREET, BRENTWOOD

First Wednesdays event for all ages includes live entertainment, arts & crafts, treats & more! Bike Walnut Creek is sponsoring a free ‘bike valet’ so you can bike to the event and relax with your bike

secured by a valet attendant. Event is free, but bring some money for dinner because the Food Truck Mafi a food trucks will be there for your dining pleasure. Cypress Street in Downtown Walnut Creek.

The Valley SenTinel September 2015 valleysentinel.com

The Back Doctors are a network of CHIROPRACTORS,MEDICAL DOCTORS and other health care professionals all with one common goal, the effective treatment of your pain.

Don’t Ignore These warning signs of spinal misalignment

Do you know what to do about back pain?WE DO.

• Recurring Headaches• Low Back and Leg Pain• Neck, Shoulder and Arm Pain• Pain Between Shoulders

• Muscle Spasms• Difficulty Sleeping• Numbness in Limbs• Dizziness/Ringing in Ears

Phillip Runco, D.C.Call for appointment now! 685-0335

The Back DoctorsA CHIROPRACTIC/MEDICAL NETWORK

OPEN 6 DAYS A WEEK FOR YOUR CONVENIENCESaturday and evening appointments available • Most insurance accepted • Workers compensation welcome

Why Are We So Sick? By Dr. Robert Brown

Advertorial

America leads all developed countries in spending on healthcare and rates of illness.

It’s a shame that we ignore the fact that our bodies are capable of self-healing, given the right resources and care.

In 400 B.C. – Hippocrates, the “Father of Medicine”, said to his students, “Let thy food be thy medicine and thy medicine be thy food”. He also said, “A wise man should consider that health is the greatest of human blessings.”

Nothing has changed since those profound statements were made over 2400 years ago except our habits and attitudes. America has been deceived into believing that the doctor heals the sick…and with this belief, we take little responsibility for our own actions regarding staying healthy in the first place. In today’s world, more than ever, we need to be more diligent regarding our health. The Pharmaceutical Industry controls most of our medical research, and the FDA is in their camp. The

EPA allows us to consume poison through our air, water and food. In the case of food, the soil has become so depleted that, without supplements, we are all deficient in the minerals necessary to maintain health, yet many doctors laugh at supplements.

In my practice, I was recently able to stop a patient’s severe nerve pain through dietary change and supplementation. Upon visiting her physician, she was told that she was wasting her money on supplements, and this physician proceeded to write her a prescription for a popular drug, even though she no longer had the symptoms.

In my book, WHY? The Question That Could Save Your Life, my goal was to save lives by leading the reader to be proactive in his/her healthcare…to explore alternatives before accepting physician advice as gospel; to do the research to understand all prescription side effects before assuming that they’re the best cure for an ailment. We should always attempt to understand WHY an illness occurred and how it could have been prevented. For example, it’s no coincidence that the late fall and winter “flu

season”, is also the season when our consumption of sugary holiday treats skyrockets, weakening our immune systems. Sugar is so inflammatory that it can temporarily slow down the immune system, opening the door to the invader.

Another obstacle to the “greatest of human blessings” is the consumption of processed foods, especially short carbohydrates (starches, corn syrup, and sugar). Even rats won’t eat some of these carbohydrates, if provided with healthier choices! Supplements can’t make up for the damage caused by these foods. Milk and wheat consumption have also been found to create many health problems, and yet processed cereal with milk and sugar is one of America’s most common breakfasts.

To best support the “greatest of human blessings”, your health, an immune-system supporting diet, plus proper supplementation, should be your primary strategy. Add exercise, and a positive, caring attitude and the rewards will be limitless.

Dr. Brown can be reached at 925-837-8048 and www.aodtc.com.

Receiving the news that you or a loved one is diagnosed with cancer may be one of the most stressful events in one’s life. In my experience, a misunderstanding of cancer care can exacerbate much of this angst. In this article I address a few of these misperceptions with the hope I can help clarify them.

Myths and Misperceptions About Cancer and Cancer CareBy Dr. K. Kenneth Chao

Advertorial

“If I am diagnosed with cancer, I will have to receive chemotherapy.”

Chemotherapy is the other “C” word that creates anxiety for many cancer patients. With few exceptions, chemotherapy is used if your cancer has spread throughout your body (metastasized) or if you have a high risk for spread. However, having been diagnosed with cancer does not imply you will have to have chemotherapy. In fact, with proper screening, such as colonoscopy for colorectal

cancer, mammography for breast cancer, and PSA / regular checkup for prostate cancer, these malignancies are generally caught at a very early stage. When cancer is caught early, local treatment without chemotherapy is generally all one may need. Your surgeon, radiation oncologist, and medical oncologist will guide you in deciding what the best course of action is for you.

“If I receive chemotherapy, I will lose my hair.”

Not necessarily. Certainly, some chemotherapeutic agents used to treat breast, lymphoma, and leukemnia have not significantly changed and may cause hair loss, but there has been an amazing evolution with newer, targeted systemic agents. These “smart” drugs

cause fewer side effects, including less risk for hair loss, as well as less nausea and diarrhea.

“If I receive radiotherapy, I will lose my hair.”

In part, yes, but you may lose your hair only in the area that radiation passes through. The radiation beams, or photons, travel in a very precise and targeted manner. It does not spread or bounce around. If radiation is directed to your chest, you will NOT lose the hair on your head, or anywhere else on your body that are not in the direct path of the radiation beams.

“If I receive radiotherapy, I will be radioactive.”

This is one I hear a lot. In general, radiotherapy is the use of energy generated by a machine (teletherapy)

or emitted from a source (brachytherapy). This energy travels through your body, but never contaminates you, because energy is not a physical substance. Thus, you are never radioactive. There are exceptions with very specific treatments for cancers involving the thyroid, liver, lymph nodes, and certain ones that travel to the bones, where substances are injected into the body or ingested. In these rare cases, the substances are active for only a few days, and then become inert, making the exposure only temporary.

Dr. K. Kenneth Chao is a board certified radiation oncologist with Epic Care, a group of experts in the diagnosis and comprehensive treatment of cancer and blood disorders. www.epic-care.com

valleysentinel.com September 2015 The Valley SenTinel page 5 Advertorial

By Dr. Niele Maimone, DC

Is Neck Pain Nagging at You?

If you are suffering with neck pain from a pinched nerve or herniated disc, you know how debilitating it is and how the pain slowly leaks the vitality from your life. At Align Healing Center we specialize in treating pain naturally. It is our mission to help relieve pain without the use of drugs, invasive procedures and without inducing more pain! If you or someone you care about suffers from pinched nerves or disc related pain, it is worthwhile to explore the natural therapies that are available today.

What is cervical disc herniation?

The bones (vertebrae) that form the spine in your back are cushioned by round, flat discs. When these discs are healthy, they act as shock absorbers for the spine and keep the spine flexible. If they become damaged, they may bulge abnormally or break open (rupture), in what is called a herniated or slipped disc. Herniated discs can occur in any part of the spine, but they are most common in the neck (cervical) and lower back (lumbar) spine.

A herniated disc usually is caused by wear and tear of the disc. As we age, our discs lose some of the fluid that helps them maintain flexibility. A herniated disc also may result from injuries to the spine, which may cause tiny tears or cracks in the outer layer of the disc. The jellylike material (nucleus) inside the disc may be forced out through the tears or cracks in the capsule, which causes the disc to bulge, break open (rupture), or break into fragments.

What are the symptoms of a herniated disc in the neck?

Herniated discs in the neck (cervical spine) can cause pain, numbness, or weakness in the neck, shoulders, chest, arms, and hands. In some cases a very large herniated disc in the neck may cause weakness or unusual tingling affecting other parts of the body, including the legs.

Arm pain from a cervical herniated disc is one of the more common cervical spine conditions. The arm pain from a cervical herniated disc results because the herniated disc material “pinches” or presses on a nerve in the neck, causing pain to radiate along the nerve pathway down the arm. Along with the arm pain, numbness and tingling can be present down the arm and into the fingertips. Muscle weakness may also be present due to a cervical herniated disc.

How can I heal my pain without drugs or surgery?

1. Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Therapy

Non-surgical spinal decompression is a state of the art treatment that has been helping thousands of patients with chronic neck or low back pain, sciatica, and herniated, bulging or degenerated discs. This is an entirely different treatment from traditional chiropractic adjustments. Many of the patients who are candidates for this procedure have already tried chiropractic, physical therapy, injections, and/or were told they would need surgery.

This breakthrough treatment works by gently separating the vertebra which decompresses the disc, thus causing the bulging material to be drawn back into the

disc. Non-surgical spinal decompression is very effective, has a high success rate, and can be utilized for both cervical and lumbar disc injuries.

2. Class IV Laser Therapy

Laser treatments at Align Healing Center are done with the K-laser 1200 Class IV Laser. Class IV Laser therapy gets to the root of the injury and treats it at the cellular level, providing energy to the cells so they can heal. This laser does not cut or burn but is gently absorbed by the tissue. During each painless treatment, laser energy increases circulation, drawing water, oxygen and nutrients to the damaged area. This creates an optimal healing environment that reduces inflammation, swelling, muscle spasms, stiffness and pain. As the injured area returns to normal, function is restored and pain is relieved.

There is hope!We have found that a

combination of Class IV laser therapy and spinal decompression offers outstanding results in healing stubborn neck pain due to a pinched nerve, bulging discs or spinal degeneration.

This unique combination of non-invasive therapy offers a chance for realizing a permanent cure for neck or back pain. This eliminates the long-term care commitment forced upon patients by other symptomatic low-back pain treatments, such as drugs, injections or surgery. With proper care and rehabilitation of your spine you can be back to your healthy self quickly!

For more information about Dr. Niele Maimone, DC or to set up a complimentary consult call 925.362.8283 or visit www.alignhealingcenter.com.

female incubates the eggs for 26 to 32 days, while the male perches nearby and brings her food. The young are able to fly at about 30 to 35 days. White-tailed Kites frequently nest a second time in the same season in California. Often the first brood of young can be seen soliciting for food from the adults as they prepare to raise the second family. White-tailed Kites are

gregarious, often gathering in communal roosts numbering in the hundreds during the fall and winter.

In Contra Costa County, suitable habitat for this species is rapidly disappearing due to suburbanization. In some areas, all that remains for foraging habitat are the edges and medians of freeways, which leads to birds being killed as they are hit by vehicles when pursuing prey.

KITEfrom page 1

the credentials to become a high school football coach, a position that he held for 13 years. During that time, he recalls following his dad’s advice and got his administration credentials as a fall back plan. A job came up at a K-8 school for an administration position and Ahern applied and got the job. He then taught German, ran a very successful program and also coached his football team to victory. This began his career in school administration. When he was in high school, Ahern says he remembered it being “an opportunity to do everything” from being a musician, an athlete, or an actor all on top of academics. Ahern adds that “one of the pitfalls of high school is that [everyone gets] so caught up in where [they] are going, and that’s important, but what about right now … [the student is] only 16 or 17 once.” His says his experience was centered on everyone being connected with the school, which is something “that has helped me work as an educator as long as I have.”

Mr. Ahern has just barely begun his time at Monte Vista, but he says he already has some ideas for what he thinks the school

can excel further in. Ahern compares Monte Vista to “driving a really awesome Formula One car”. He goes on to say “The car goes fast and it’s beautiful, and it has all this stuff. The question is how do you make the car go 5 miles and hour faster?” Ahern says that he is very competitive, and likes to be number one, something that translates into his ambitions for Monte Vista. Speaking for the school, Ahern also adds that “When you’re number one you can get complacent sometimes, so you’re always searching for the next thing”. He says he is working with the school staff to find the next thing to improve, especially because of the competitive nature of this school district. Ahern acknowledges the fact that he doesn’t want to “discredit what’s been built here, because what’s been built [at Monte Vista] is amazing.

Ahern says that one of his concerns is that the focus will fall on the numbers and looking good adding that he would prefer to “focus on is what’s best for kids” rather than the numbers they produce. For him, he says, it is very important to “maintain an element of class that no matter what happens; no one can take that away from us”.

PRINCIPAL from page 1

The Golden Eagle, Prairie Falcon, Red-tailed Hawk, and Great Horned Owl are known to prey upon the inexperienced young White-tailed Kites. White-tailed Kites appear to be increasing their range into Oregon and Washington as individuals disperse north.

James M. Hale is a wildlife biologist, ethnobiologist, and ecological consultant based in Contra Costa County


SENTINELS OF FREEDOM Scholarship Foundation

Housing • Education • Employment • Mentoring • Ongoing Support

Sentinels of Freedom provides the resources and support needed for severely wounded veterans to live active, engaged, and successful lives as they recover from the physical, emotional, and psychological impact of their injuries, learn to live with their disabilities, and work their way back to a life of complete self-sufficiency.

To learn more about our organization please visit us at:

www.sentinelsoffreedom.orgwww.facebook.com/sentinelsoffreedom

(925) [email protected]

www.facebook.com/sentinelsoffreedom

Sentinels Of Freedom Partners With Local Corporations To Establish Student Veterans Resource Center

Sentinels of Freedom Scholarship Foundation (Sentinels) is partnering with local organizations to fund on-campus Student Veterans’ Resource Centers (Resource Centers) at colleges and universities around the country. Partnerships include Pacifi c Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) and building giant Lennar Urban, as well as several other local organizations. Dahlin Group, Engeo, Anvil Builders and HomeAid have also volunteered their architectural and building services. The Resource Centers will provide a safe space for veterans to support one another as they transition from military service to civilian life into higher education and their career goals.

To meet the growing demand of the more than one million veterans receiving education benefi ts through Veterans Affairs, campuses are being called on to meet the needs of this population. Everyday veterans walk onto college campuses across America, but a support system is necessary for them to excel.

Sentinels scholarship recipient Brian Vargas recently shared “Transitioning from a war zone to a college campus is extremely diffi cult. When I fi rst started, I would show

up on campus, not talk to anyone and go home. It wasn’t until I found a group of other veterans and started the veteran’s organization at my community college that I started to feel like I belonged and could acclimate to my new college life. Unfortunately there are many veterans across the country that are still facing challenges on campuses, and I hope they can fi nd a similar organization and place to feel like they belong.”

These Centers allow veterans to get plugged in to the greater veteran community. Resources will include quiet study areas, a library with textbooks, computers and printers, as well as common spaces to connect and build a sense of community.

San Francisco State University partnered with Sentinels of Freedom and PG&E to establish their resource center in 2012. The center serves more than 400 veterans that attend the university. Air Force veteran Eugene De Los Santos refl ected on the project, “I think it’s great because it can feel uncomfortable transitioning to civilian life. It’s diffi cult, but this is a place on campus to connect with other veterans who have gone through the same thing.”

“California has the highest number of veterans of any state; our goal is to create a Student Veterans Resource Center on every campus. Assisting them as they transition home and start college or trade school is not only the right thing to do its our undeniable responsibility to honor these veterans. It is for this reason that we have partnered with several local organizations and will be rolling out more centers in the near future” said Mike Conklin, Chairman of Sentinels of Freedom.

Sentinels and PG&E recently funded a Resource Center at Alameda Community College in Alameda, CA. This center will serve the 150 veterans who attend the campus and is expected to open in September 2015, with a ribbon-cutting in November.

Other future California resource centers are in the Contra Costa Community College District including one at Diablo Valley College in Pleasant Hill, sponsored by Lennar Urban; Contra Costa College in San Pablo, sponsored by Sentinels of Freedom and Anvil Construction, and Los Medanos College in Pittsburg, sponsored by PG&E. Sentinels of Freedom has raised 85% of the funds necessary to outfi t the three new centers through its corporate and private partnerships. The project is now in the development phase. The Diablo Valley College and Los Medanos centers are expected to be completed in 2015, and Contra Costa College in 2016.

Lipscomb University in Nashville, Tennessee, which has a stellar reputation for taking care of their student veterans, also has a center opening this fall. Sentinels of Freedom currently has fi ve scholarship recipients enrolled at Lipscomb and is helping to build this center that will service the more than 150 veterans on the campus. The center is named in honor of Charlie Daniels for his unwavering support of veterans.

For more information, please contact Mike Conklin, Chairman of the Sentinels of Freedom Scholarship Foundation at 925-380-6342 Ex 1 or [email protected], www.sentinelsoffreedom.org

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August investment account statements are out and the results are not pretty. Between August 1st and August 25th the S&P 500 Index dropped 11.23%. International stocks dropped roughly 10% during this period and emerging markets stocks (China, Brazil, etc.) dropped almost 15%. Professional pundits will provide plenty of reasons for this sudden decline, to include the slowdown of t he Chinese economy, continued issues with Greece, a decline in the price of oil, and last but not least, fear that the Federal Reserve may be raising interest rates.

Before I offer my thoughts on the market and how one should react, let me start with a great quote from one of the greatest mutual fund managers of all time, Peter Lynch: “Far more money has been lost by investors preparing for corrections, or trying to anticipate corrections, than has been lost in corrections themselves.”

I find this quote particularly helpful right now because it seems like everyone is wondering if the next 2008 is right around the corner. This is a perfectly normal reaction since the pain of 2008’s market crash is still fresh in everyone’s mind. So please allow me 5 minutes to provide our view of the investment world right now and how this impacts you.

1. This type of volatility is actually quite normal. We experienced the same thing in 2014 and in 2011. On both occasions external factors were to blame, at least according to the headline news. The reality is no one knows for sure why the market does what it does in the short term. What we do know is that in the short term the stock market is driven by supply and demand, and when times get tough,

novice investors get out. This causes prices to fall even further. In the long run the stock market is driven by the profits of the companies you are investing in. If you are saving for retirement or already retired, you should be a long term investor and not a short-term speculator.

2. This is precisely why you should be diversified. During this same 3 week stretch, the Vanguard Balanced index (VBIAX) was down just 6.48%, about ½ of the overall stock market. In the short-term diversification cannot protect investors from declines, but in the long run you want to own different types of investments that do well in different environments. Ray Dalio of Bridgewater Associates (the largest U.S. hedge fund) has coined this concept “The All-Weather Portfolio”. This means owning some investments that will do well when interest rates rise; others when interest rates fall. Some that do well in a recession; others in an expansion. Diversification does not mean simply owning 10 different mutual funds. It’s what those funds are invested in that defines whether or not you are diversified.

3. Checking your investment account every day or even every week is not helpful. When you invest in a broadly diversified portfolio you are not betting on a given stock or any one sector. You are investing in the economy as a whole, and over time your money will grow as the economy grows.

4. Your investment account shows the daily fluctuation in price, not value. The price of your investments changes daily, and when the prices are falling this is reflected as a loss on your account statements. However if we are not selling (and hopefully you are not) as prices fall, you are not locking in losses. This is a very important distinction to make.

Finally, it’s quite possible that the stock market will fall further before rising again. This will not change one thing that has been written here. A big part of an Advisor’s job is to help clients avoid doing the wrong thing at the wrong time. Much has been written about what one should ask when interviewing financial advisors. My favorite question and the one I would encourage each of you to ask is, “how will you help me avoid self-destructive investor behavior?”

Robert Cucchiaro is a Certified Financial Planner and a registered tax preparer. He is a Partner and owner of Summit Wealth & Retire-ment, a financial planning firm that has been serving Danville for almost 30 years. Rob specializes in retirement, investment, tax, and estate planning. www.summit-wealthandretirement.com

Diversification limits losses in a downturnBy Robert Cucchiaro

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California is in its fourth year of drought, and water conservation is on everyone’s mind. Many people have told me that they use a bucket to catch the cold water from the shower instead of letting it going down the drain, and then use the water to

A native garden saves water and brings many benefi ts By Sundong Kwong, Certifi ed Green Building Professional

fl ush the toilet or water houseplants. This is an excellent way to save water indoors. However, in order to meet the government mandate of 25% water savings we need to do more.

Landscape watering consumes 60% of household

water use. Eliminating the lawn and replacing it with a native garden can reduce this amount considerably. Accomplishing this is easier than you might think.

While saving water, we should also be diligent about not polluting our precious water resources by avoiding the use of chemicals in treating your landscape. Chemical fertilizers, herbicides and pesticides leave toxins in the soil, which eventually make their way to

the watershed and possibly into our water supply. This practice is especially important when you try to remove an existing lawn for a native garden.

The best way to remove the lawn without much digging or use of chemicals is sheet mulching. It is the technique of placing layers of cardboard or newspaper down to smother the lawn, applying a layer of compost and mulch, and then planting your favorite drought tolerant

plants. While smothering the lawn, the cardboard or newspaper decomposes, providing nutrients to improve soil health. Compost is natural fertilizer and mulch preserves moisture in the soil.

Sheet mulching requires little digging. Keep the dug up dirt on the lawn to create feature mounds so that you don’t have to pay to haul the dirt away. This process saves time, money and water.

Native plants have adapted to the local soils. Once they mature, they can thrive with little or no

See GARDENpage 10

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It is an unfortunate fact that for many communities, residential burglaries are not isolated crimes, and Danville is no exception.

The good news is that there are precautions that can be taken to help reduce the chances of being a victim of a home burglary.

First, take a few moments to objectively evaluate your home. Ask yourself, “How would I break into my home?” Walk around the perimeter of your home and check your windows and doors. Push and pull on them to check for loose locks, hinges or knobs. While you’re walking around, note the lighting. Do you have motion detection lights? Are they set at the correct height and angle?

Check the landscaping around your homes, especially around doors and windows. Do they offer protection if someone were to break in? Is there a ladder lying nearby that would provide access to a second fl oor? The majority of residential burglaries occur through forcible entry. Don’t leave a tool readily available.

Tips to Prevent Residential BurglariesRecommendations include checking windows and doors, and landscaping

This is why it’s important to reinforce main entry points that burglars may target. The more diffi cult your home is to break into the more likely the burglars will move on to an easier target. Remember, burglars will avoid homes where it will take time and effort to get in. A burglar won’t want to take more than a moment to make entry for fear of being noticed.

Helping to identity vulnerable areas will give you the opportunity to help keep your home safe.

Fortifying the security of your doors and windows will make an easy entry more diffi cult. Make sure that your door hinge and strike plate screws are 3-inch steel screws rather than the standard 1 ½-inch screws. Deadbolt locks are also very effective.

Entry doors that are hollow-core are easy to defeat. If you are going to replace any entry doors make sure they are solid wood or metal. Reinforce ground level windows with quality glass protection fi lm.

Or course, an alarm system is always an effective deterrent. The signs and stickers from an alarm company will often dissuade would-be burglars from trying to enter, and even if a burglar gets into a home an alarm will greatly reduce the time spent inside.

By taking a few moments to educate yourself and apply some simple crime prevention tips, you can help protect your home and give yourself added peace of mind.

For more information, contact the Town of Danville Crime Prevention Specialist at (925) 314-3707.

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How Medicare Covers DiabetesBy David Sayen

Diabetes is a serious disease. It can lead to kidney problems, glaucoma and other eye disorders, foot ulcers, amputation of feet or legs, stroke, diabetic coma, and even death.

If your doctor thinks you’re at risk for diabetes, Medicare covers screening tests for it. And, if you develop the disease, Medicare covers a wide variety of medications, home testing equipment, supplies, and self-management training to help you cope with it.

Screening tests are used to detect diabetes early. Some of the conditions that may qualify you as being at risk for diabetes include:

• High blood pressure;• Dyslipidermia

(a history of abnormal cholesterol and triglycleride levels);

• Obesity (with certain conditions);

• Impaired glucose (blood sugar) tolerance;

• High fasting glucose (blood sugar).

Medicare will pay for two diabetes screening tests in a 12-month period. After the initial screening, your doctor will determine when to do the second test.

You and your doctor can discuss diabetes and any other health concerns you have during a “Welcome to Medicare” visit. Medicare covers this one-time review of your health, including counseling on any screenings, shots, or other care you may need. (You must have this visit within the fi rst 12 months you’re enrolled in Medicare Part B.)

In addition, Medicare covers an annual wellness visit with your doctor, during which you can develop or update a personalized prevention plan, based on your current health and risk factors.

If you do develop diabetes, Medicare pays for self-management training to help you learn how to successfully manage the disease. Your doctor must prescribe this training for Medicare to cover it.

The training covers a variety of topics, including the risks of poor blood sugar control; nutrition and how to manage your diet; options to improve blood sugar control; exercise and why it’s important to your health; and how to take your medications properly.

Also, Medicare covers medical nutrition therapy services, to help you learn what foods to eat and how to follow an individualized diabetic meal plan.

Generally, Medicare Part B (medical insurance) covers services and supplies needed by people who have or are at risk for diabetes. Medicare Part D (the prescription drug program) helps pay for supplies for injecting or inhaling insulin.

Here are some of the items covered under Part B:

• Home blood sugar monitors and related supplies, such as test strips, lancet devices, and lancets;

• Foot exams and treatment (needed by people with diabetic peripheral neuropathy and loss of protective sensation);

• Glaucoma tests;• External insulin

pumps and insulin the devices use:

• Therapeutic shoes or inserts;

• Screening tests, “Welcome to Medicare” visits, and annual wellness checkups.

Items covered under Part D include:

• Drugs for maintaining blood sugar;

• Insulin that isn’t administered with a pump.

Medicare doesn’t cover everything, of course. Among the diabetes supplies and services not covered are:

• Eye exams for glasses (called refraction);

• Orthopedic shoes (for people whose feet are impaired but intact);

• Cosmetic surgery.You can do many things

to control your diabetes. Talk with your doctor about what, how much, and when you eat. Also talk with him or her about how much you should weigh, and the different ways you can reach your weight goal.

Take your medications as directed, and discuss any problems you encounter with your physician. Be active for a total of 30 minutes most days. Keep tabs on your blood sugar levels, blood pressure, and cholesterol.

If you smoke, quit. Medicare also covers counseling on how to stop smoking, if your doctor orders it.

For more details on Medicare’s coverage of diabetes, read the brochure titled “Medicare’s Coverage of Diabetes Supplies & Services,” at: www.medicare.gov/Pubs/pdf/11022.pdf

David Sayen is Medicare’s regional administrator for Arizona, California, Hawaii, Nevada, and the Pacifi c Territories. You can get answers to your Medicare questions 24/7 by calling 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).

water in the summer. They are generally pest and disease resistant. Indeed, native plants often attract pollinators and benefi cial insects, such as, birds, bees, butterfl ies and ladybugs, that feed on pests.

An occasional application of mulch will continue to conserve

GARDENfrom page 8

moisture in the soil and reduce weed growth. As it decomposes it also replenishes the nutrients for the plants. Using mulch reduces the need to send garden wastes to landfi lls.

Most native plants require little care and maintenance other than some pruning to shape them to your liking.

Native plants come in different shapes, sizes and colors. You will be

pleasantly surprised at how attractive you can make your garden while at the same time doing good for the environment.

Sundong is a certifi ed green building professional and founder of Green Remodel Forum. To learn more about how to sheet mulch please contact Sundong Kwong at [email protected] or visit http://greenremodelforum.com

You’re Invited

To The Danville Police Department Open House!

Saturday September 19

10:00am-2:00 PM Come explore and learn all

about Law Enforcement!

We will have games, interactive booths, tours of the police

department, tools and equipment, demonstrations, face-painting, coloring, hotdogs and more!

We Hope To See You There!


Following the Anza TrailBy Beverly Lane, East Bay Regional Parks District

Most people have heard of the Pacific Crest Trail and the Appalachian Trail. But one of the greatest national trails – both in terms of historic significance and natural beauty – runs right through the East Bay.

The Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail, administered by the National Park Service, traverses 1,210 miles of desert, coastline, forests, mountains and valleys from Nogales, Arizona to the Bay Area, with stops in some of the most picturesque locales in the West.

Much of the portion through Alameda and Contra Costa counties overlaps with East Bay Regional Park District trails. Working with the National Park Service, non-profits and volunteer

groups, the Park District’s staff has labeled these existing trails and plans to add more segments in the future.

In cooperation with the National Park Service, 14 wayside interpretive panels have been installed along the trail on Park District

lands. My favorite panel is installed just east of the Bull Valley staging area at the Carquinez Regional Shoreline and overlooks the Carquinez Strait.

The trail traces the 1775-1776 epic journey by Commander Anza, Franciscan missionary Pedro Font, and 240 soldiers and their families – plus 1,000 head of livestock – as they set out to colonize Alta California for the Spanish crown. The expedition was

the first overland exploration to bring settlers to California and its success shaped the future of California. There were mestizo, criollo and African-American settlers, which should remind us of California’s diverse beginnings.

In March and April of 1776, Anza led a smaller excursion from Monterey to the Bay Area and selected locations for Mission Dolores and the presidio overlooking the entrance to San Francisco Bay. Anza had also been charged with investigating whether land access

to the north side of the Bay was available.

This was the reason for their excursion to the East Bay.

The success of their expedition is reflected in a host of Bay Area place names, named after members of the Anza party: Berryessa, Moraga, Alviso, Peralta, Bernal, Castro and many others. It paved the way for generations of Spanish and later Mexican and American settlers.

Marcia Leslie KahnApril 1, 1945 – July 4, 2015Danville, California

Preamble: I have to say that for the 20 years that I knew Marci, she was always a vibrant, warm and caring person with a “tell it like it is” attitude. I loved seeing her at Alamo and Danville business functions because she consistently had that great smile and welcoming embrace. Funny, witty, creative and curious, she was a joy to be around whenever I met her, whether at a mixer for the Alamo Merchants and Professionals Association (back in the day…) or the Chambers of Commerce. A generous, vivacious soul and beautiful person, I will miss Marci, as will everyone who knew her. My warm thoughts and prayers go to Mark and the family and friends closest to her. —Denise Rousset

Marci went to heaven on Saturday, July 4th with the love and grace she embodied in life. She embraced life through her family and friends. Her vibrant spirit and attitude were contagious and she touched many lives along the way with her love of tennis, teaching water aerobics and the garden club.

Marci is survived by her devoted husband Mark Kahn; brothers Greg and Todd Tysland; loving children Elizabeth Kahn, Christine Jones, Julie Crowder and Lisa Mathia: grandchildren Tiera Kendrick, Taylor and Ryan Mathia and Jacob and Joel Ingram. She will be missed but never forgotten. A celebration of Marcie’s life was held on July 31st at Round Hill Country Club.

Donations to Hospice of the East Bay are welcome.

Mary TuttleMarch 14, 1929 – August 9, 2015Danville, California

Mary Alice Tuttle passed away on Sunday due to complications following cardiac arrest. She leaves behind many dear friends from the East Bay community.

Born Mary Mathews in Rothville, Missouri, she attended Rothville High School and graduated from the University of Missouri, Columbia in 1951. Her passion

for service was the foundation of a distinguished 25 year career teaching elementary school in five states, including in California in the Pleasanton School District. The passion and creativity she is known for were exemplified throughout her teaching career. Mary’s retirement from teaching began a journey in marketing at Classic Values with her husband Roy, where she built long lasting friendships and business contacts throughout the East Bay. She was active with local Chambers of Commerce, the Community Presbyterian Church of Danville, and the Danville/Sycamore Valley Rotary with a special interest in supporting the Paradise Adolescent Home. Her dedication to community service was recognized with the Danville Citizen of the Year award in 2014.

Mary is survived by her daughter, Susan Tuttle Morse, son-in-law Robert Morse of Anchorage, Alaska, and her granddaughter Marian Jean Gilmore of West Linn, Oregon. She is also survived by seven Mathews siblings: Gerald of Pasco, WA, Robert of Shelbourne, IN, Lee Hickman of Prairie Village, KS, Joseph of St. Louis, MO, Laurel Dale of Macon, MO, Sue Lauhoff of Milford, TX and Gary of Owasso, OK. Mary was preceded in death by her husband Robert Roy Tuttle in 2001, two children, Barbara Jean Tuttle and Mary Jane Tuttle, and her brothers Oliver, Gene, and Garrit Mathews.

Mary’s faith, energy, lively spirit, love of charity and goodwill were self evident to those who knew her.

A celebration of life was held on August 15, at Community Presbyterian Church in Danville. An additional memorial service and internment in central Missouri is anticipated.

Donations in her memory can be made to the Paradise Adolescent Home, P.O. Box 626 San Ramon, CA 94583.

Obituaries

The painting is of Anza and his group by David Rickman of the National Park Service

New in AlamoThere have been some

important changes in Alamo over the past several months, so it’s probably worthwhile to provide an update to everyone.

By now, most people are aware that the Alamo Chamber of Commerce merged with the Danville Area Chamber of Commerce. This move brought new energy to both organizations. Shelly Despotakis is the new president of the Danville Chamber and she is committed to including the local communities of Alamo, Diablo, Blackhawk and Danville in Chamber business and social activities.

If you are not familiar with the Danville Chamber, please visit their website at www.danvilleareachamber.com to become familiar with their extensive program that supports local businesses.

Alamo Community UpdatesBy Steve Mick

The Community Foundation of Alamo

As part of the merger of the two chambers, Alamo residents created the Community Foundation of Alamo, a 501(c) (3) non-profit Public Charity. One of the foundation’s primary responsibilities is the Alamo Holiday Tree Lighting ceremony scheduled for November 22, 2015 from 4:30 to 6:30.This long-standing annual event takes place at Andrew H. Young Park in downtown Alamo and marks the beginning of the holiday season for Alamo residents.

The foundation is also in the early planning stages of an Alamo restaurant “walkabout” later this year. More information on this first-time event will be forthcoming.

The Alamo Improvement Association

The AIA continues to be one of Alamo’s preeminent community organizations. One event sponsored by them is the annual Autos of Alamo Car Show. This will be the third year for this

popular event. It will take place at Alamo Plaza on Saturday, September 12th from 4 to 8 PM. 1980 and older cars, trucks, hot rods, customs, classics and antiques are welcome. For more information and a registration form, please visit the AIA website at www.alamoca.org.

Sharp-eyed readers will notice that the Autos of Alamo Car Show is scheduled for the Saturday after Labor Day. This is normally the date of the Alamo Wine and Music Festival however this event has been cancelled for this year. The Rotary Club of Alamo, who organized and sponsored this event for many years, is taking a break. An ad hoc committee of Alamo residents and representatives of several Alamo organizations met several times and decided to move the date of the Car Show from Thursday, September 10th to Saturday the 12th.

Current plans are for the Alamo Wine and Music Festival to be restructured and be scheduled for September 10th, 2016.

See ANZApage 15

September • September • September • September • September • September • September

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Please email your calendar events to the Sentinel at [email protected] by 5pm on the 20th of the month preceding publication month. Inclusion in the calendar pages is at the sole discretion of Sentinel Newspapers, Inc.

For additional Community Events visit: www.ValleySentinel.com Please email information about your events to [email protected]

COMMUNITY EVENTS

Volunteers Needed: Read to PreschoolersVolunteers are needed at childcare centers in Concord, Pittsburg, and West County. The Contra Costa County Library will supply books and resources. For more information, please contact Maureen Kilmurray at 925-927-3288.

Danville Farmer’s MarketEvery Saturday, Year-round9am-1pm. Get the freshest seasonal fare at the Danville Certifi ed Farmers’ Market. Railroad & Prospect Avenue, Danville. Information: www.ci.danville.ca.us. (You can make donations of fresh vegetables and fruit for our local food pantries at the Loaves & Fishes Booth at the Danville Farmers Market.)

San Ramon Farmers MarketEvery Saturday & Thursday-Year-round, Bishop RanchWednesday, April-Sept, Windermere Buy fresh, seasonal produce directly from local farmers at San Ramon Farmers Market. Connect with your community while shopping at a festive gathering place with live music! www.SanRamonFarmersMarket.org

Canine Companions for Independence Puppy ClassEach Saturday11am-12pm. Become a puppy raiser! The East Bay Miracles Chapter invites you to help train puppies to become assistant dogs for children and adults with disabilities. Make sure to check out their online calendar before heading off to volunteer. Athenian High School, 2100 Mt. Diablo Scenic Blvd., Danville. ccieastbay.org.

FREE E-Waste Recycling Event First Saturday of every month9am-1pm. Bring your old, unwanted electronic equipment. Drop off is FREE and all e-waste will be recycled right here in the good old USA. Diablo Valley College, 321 Golf Club Road in the Overfl ow Parking Lot #7, Pleasant Hill. Visit www.NoEwaste.com for accepted and non-accepted electronic items. Information: 866-335-3373 or [email protected].

Forest Home Farms Historic Park & Glass House Museum–open for Fun on the Farm2nd Saturday of each month.10am-2pm. Enjoy tours of the Glass House Museum, the farm and its history, interactive exhibits including the tractor museum, the beautiful grounds and free activities. Visit the Welcome Center and purchase old-fashioned toys and gifts at the Gift Shoppe. Tours are $5 per person, or $8 for both tours on the same day. 19953 San Ramon Valley Blvd, San Ramon. Information: 925-973-3284 or visit www.sanramon.ca.gov.

First Thursday Shop Local Day and Night10am-7pm. Join in the fun in downtown Danville at the First Thursday Shopping and Dining Event. Downtown Hartz Avenue, Danville. www.danville.ca.gov.

Take Off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS) MeetingEvery Tuesday8-10am. This Weight Loss Support Group provides a space for those who wish to lose weight. St. Timothy’s, 1550 Diablo Rd. 925-838-7870.

WCPD Parent Education Nights-Marijuana, Wax & Vape PensSeptember 96pm. Join the Walnut Creek Police Department to learn the information about Marijuana, Wax & Vape Pens that you need to know in order for you to be able to keep your child safe and help them be sucess-ful. Free. Heather Farm Community Center (Lakeside Room) at 301 N San Carlos Drive, Walnut Creek. For questions email [email protected]

Women in InvestingSeptember 105:30-7:30pm. Come celebrate Women in Investing with Bryan Sundell, President and CEO of Valor Wealth Management LLC and Co-Host Dominick McPeake, Senior Regional Business Consultant with Curian Capital LLC. Please join us for a fun fi lled evening of Food, Wine, education on Social and investment related topics and Special Guest Speaker Sylvia Hack CFP. The Vine at Bridges, 480 Hartz Ave, Danville. Call 925-856-7317 to book your spot. Peter’s Porchetta-A Roman HolidaySeptember 106:30 Reception with Norbert, 7pm Dinner. This year we’re welcoming very special guest Norbert Reinisch, proprietor of the iconic Barbera specialist Braida-Giacomo Bologna to give our annual Roman holiday a distinctly Piemontese twist! These fabulous wines will show you what’s possible with the Barbera grape and with Peter’s delicious,

savory Porchetta, it’ll be an incredibly fun evening! $98 per diner plus tax and gratuity. For reservations call 925.935.7780. 1522 North Main Street, Walnut Creek. primawine.com.

Good Grief Cooking with Author Lisa RubinoSeptember 106:30-8pm. In her autobiographical cookbook “Good Grief Cooking,” Rubino shares her personal struggles along with delicious recipes that are designed to help you overcome grief and other suffering. You’re invited to hear Rubino talk about her journey and learn how to heal with a meal. Oak View Room at the Walnut Creek Library, 1644 N. Broadway Ave., Walnut Creek. www.ccclib.org

9-11 Remembrance CeremonySeptember 115-6:30pm. This event will feature prominent guest speakers, hundreds of Scouts with an array ofamerican Flags, joint Police and Fire Dept. Honor Guard Pipes and Drums, the San Ramon Valley High Chamber Singers and many other patriotic participants. Immediately following the ceremony there will be a community picnic. Free. All Wars Memorial in Oak Hill Park, 3005 Stone Valley Road, Danville.

Skin Cancer Take a HikeSeptember 1210am-12pm. Dr. Hayes Gladstone of the Gladstone Clinic in San Ramon will be leading Skin Cancer, Take a Hike! climb to the top of Mt. Kiliman-jaro in 2015. This year six regional hikes will be held to raise funds in support of SPOT Skin Cancer and create broader awareness about skin cancer prevention and detection. Mount Diablo. http://aad.org

2016 SAT Practice TestSeptember 1211am-3pm Prepare for the redesigned SAT with this free program presented by C2 Education. Register at ccclib.org, or call the Library at 925-973-3380. Dougherty Station Library, 17017 Bollinger Canyon Road, San Ramon.

Laundry the Old Way at Forest Home FarmsSeptember 1211am-2pm. The tubs will be fi lled, and you will be up to your elbows in water as you wash, rinse, wring, and hang each piece of laundry up to dry. You’ll soon see why families once set aside an entire day for this chore. Next take a look at items from our collection that were invented to make the job easier -including a demonstration of an early machine-powered washer. Admission is free. Forest Home Farms, 19953 San Ramon Blvd., San Ramon. www.sanramon.ca.gov

Nature at Night: BatsSeptember 156:30-7:30pm. Learn all about these fl ying creatures of the night, and maybe even meet one! Presented by Cat Taylor, East Bay Regional Park District Naturalist. Free. Danville Library, 400 Front Street, Dan-ville. http://ccclib.org

Mad Science: Fire and IceSeptember 154-5pm. Kick off the school year with Mad Science. Watch as the Mad Scientist burns paper with no ash, levitates beach balls using no hands, and even takes a stroll through a cemetery. Mad Science isamazing, educational, and highly interactive. You’ll beamazed at how much you learn. No registration required. Event held in the Children’s Reading Room at the Danville Library, 400 Front Street, Danville. http://ccclib.org

WCPD Parent Education Nights-Alcohol & Other Popular DrugsSeptember 166pm. Join the Walnut Creek Police Department to learn the information about social media that you need to know in order for you to be able to keep your child safe. Free. Heather Farm Community Center (Lakeside Room) at 301 N San Carlos Drive, Walnut Creek. For questions email [email protected]

Social Media: Take Your Constant Contact Emails to the Next LevelSeptember 174:30-6pm. Email is one of the most productive ways to build your busi-ness and increase customer engagement. But there is more than just the basic best practices to really make your emails sing! Come join us to learn about some of the most productive aspects of your Constant Contact Email account. Admission is $10 which includes an entry ticket into the Business Expo and Mixer. The Bridges Golf ClubFireside Room, 9000 S. Gale Ridge Road, San Ramon

Business Expo and Mixer at the Bridges Golf ClubSeptember 175-7:30pm. Discover local businesses and network with up to 350 people at the San Ramon Business Expo and Mixer, at the Bridges Golf Club. Regular Admission is $20. The Bridges Golf Club, 9000 S. Gale Ridge Road, San Ramon. members.sanramon.org

The 2015 Membership Brunch of the AAUWSeptember 199:30am-12:30pm. The public is invited to join us learn about human traffi cking in the Bay Area from guest speaker, Ms. Venus Rodriguez. According to the FBI, the San Francisco Bay Area is one of three regions in the United States with the highest density of child sex traffi cking.. Roundhill Country Club at 3169 Roundhill Road, Alamo.

Coastal Clean-Up Day at Kirker CreekSeptember 199am-1pm. Celebrate Coastal Cleanup Day by joining Save Mount Diablo to clean up a section of Kirker Creek in Pittsburg. Our goal is to improve water quality and enhance habitat for endangered species. Project activities will consist of climbing up steep creek banks carrying debris, removing non-native weeds by hand, and caging native oak seedlings. Free. RSVP required:[email protected]. Meet at 5755 Nortonville Rd, Pittsburg.

Parkinson’s Network of Mt. Diablo Support GroupSeptember 199am-12pm. For those newly diagnosed, who’ve had PD for years and their caregivers; It’s time to share, laugh, and learn from each other. This meeting features a presentation by Dr. Rita Ghandy, M.D. on Current & Future Advances in PD Research & Treatment. Free, no RSVP needed. Grace Presbyterian Church, 2100 Tice Valley Blvd., Walnut Creek. For questions call 925-939-4210.

Danville PD Open HouseSeptember 1910am-2pm. In addition to tours of the facility, participants will see equip-ment demonstrations, a demo by the K-9 unit, fi ngerprinting stations and other fun activities for the young ones. Older participants will have the chance to participate in simulated police scenarios to experience some of the situations faced by offi cers on a regular basis. Free. Dan-ville Police Department, 510 La Gonda Way. For more information call 925-314-3707.

Redwoods at Forest Home FarmsSeptember 1911am-2pm. Explore the farm as you follow clues to see these amazing trees planted by Ruth Boone and discover the wonders of redwoods. Admission is free. Forest Home Farms, 19953 San Ramon Blvd., San Ramon. www.sanramon.ca.gov

Paws & Outlaws BarbequeSeptember 193-6pm. Bring your appetite and dancing boots and help save the lives of local animals by attending the Paws In Need “Paws & Outlaws” Barbeque. The festivities include a mouthwateringbarbeque with all the fi xin’s, music and raffl es. All proceeds benefi t local animals to keep them healthy and wanted. Admission is $35 for adults and $15 for kids under 12. Tickets are available online at www.paws-in-need.org . The Olivina, 4555 Arroyo Rd. in Livermore. Call 925-551-1877 for more information.

Cancer Survivorship ConferenceSeptember 26 10am-2pm. David Spiegel, MD., will provide the keynote presentation on how psychosocial support impacts survivorship. Lunch will be pro-vided. Registration is required-please call 925-933-0107 by September 23rd. Free. Cancer Support Community, 3276 McNutt Avenue, Walnut Creek.

Jam and Bread at Forest Home FarmsSeptember 2611am-2pm. Follow wheat from the fi eld to the table as you thresh, grind, and sift wheat kernels to make fl our. Find out how it turns into tasty bread, learn about the process of canning, and discover what unusual varieties of jams Ruth Boone made and sold at the farm in the mid 1900’s. Forest Home Farms, 19953 San Ramon Blvd., San Ramon. www.sanramon.ca.gov

2015 Canine Companions for Independence DogFestOctober 39am-1pm. Grab a leash and be part of Canine Companions DogFest Walk ‘n Roll! It’s a community dog walk that supports the mission of Canine Companions for Independence. Fundraise to earn a cool DogFest prize-if you raise $100, you’ll get a DogFest bandana to sport at DogFest. Admission is free. Oak Hill Park, 3005 Stone Valley Road, Danville. www.cci.org

Wine and Equine - A Time to Remember A benefi t for children with special needsOctober 35:30pm. Benefi t for Sonrise Equestrian Foundation. Includes a catered dinner, Wente wine, silent auction, and protraits with the miniature horses. $125. Round Hill Country Club, 3169 Roundhill Rd, Alamo. Information and tickets: visit www.sonrisekids.org or call 925-838-RIDE (7433)

valleysentinel.com September 2015 The Valley SenTinel page 13 SENIORS

Danville SeniorsUnless otherwise noted, the following activities are held at the Danville Senior Center, Veterans Memorial Building, 115 E. Prospect, Danville. For more information call 925-314-3490 or visit www.ci.danville.ca.us/Recreation/Seniors.

Sneaker Trips: The Town of Danville’s Senior Sneakers program is a great way for you to make new friends and get out and around the greater Bay Area. There’s always something new to see and learn.

All trips meet at the Danville Park & Ride lot unless otherwise noted in the trip details. Reserve your spot at the Danville Senior Center, 115 E. Prospect, Danville, CA 94526, on or before the registration date beginning at 8:30am. Information: 925-314-3400 or visit www.ci.danville.ca.us/Recreation/Seniors/Senior_Sneaker_Trips.

The Danville Area Senior Hikes (DASH) are open to all adults and meets on the second and fourth Wednesday of every month. The group starts at the Danville Park-n-Ride (next to the Sycamore Valley 680 North exit) at 9AM and returns about 1Pm. Most hikes are not strenuous, but gradients are involved due to the local terrain. Distances are usually in the 4-5 mile range, and the pace is moderate, with stops to view scenery, wildlife and to talk about location history when appropriate. Information: 925-314-3400 or visit www.ci.danville.ca.us/Recreation/Seniors/Senior_Hiking.

San Ramon SeniorsThe following events are held at the Alcosta Senior & Community Center, 9300 Alcosta Blvd., San Ramon, unless otherwise noted. For more information call 925-973-3250 or visit www.sanramon.ca.gov/parks/programs/ages55+.htm.

Wisdom Wednesdays: Free workshops and informational sessions that will benefi t you. They will give you free access to coffee, knowledge and a better understanding of important issues. Information: 925-973-3250.

Trips Trip Desk is open Tuesday from 10am-1pm. Sign up for trips at the travel desk or by depositing payment with registration form in the gold drop box found at the main entryway. Information: 973-3250.

Wednesday Morning Hikes (time and location varies)Join the San Ramon Trailblazers if you are interested in meeting new people, enjoying the outdoors, having fun and getting in shape. The group meets once a week at various locations, This is an adults only group; pets are not permitted on hikes. To find out the exact meeting location and to get on the email list, please call the Senior Center or email [email protected]. Page Turners Senior Book GroupThird Tuesday of the month1:30pm. Drop in–all are welcome! Copies of this month’s book are on reserve for you at the San Ramon Library Front Desk. Book group meets at Alcosta Senior and Community Center, 9300 Alcosta Blvd. Information: Carol Yuke, Adult Services Librarian. 925-973-285

BUSINESS

Danville Chamber of Commerce New, Prospective and ExistingMember OrientationSeptember 103:45 pm- 5:00 pm. You are invited to attend the New & Prospective member orientation to fi nd out why you want to be a member of the Danville Area Chamber of Commerce, how to get involved as a member and to learn what the Chamber can do for you. Free, attend to get into the Mixer for free as well. Danville Area Chamber of Commerce Conference Room,117 E Town and Country Drive, Danville. danvilleareachamber.com

Danville Chamber of Commerce – After Hours Business Mixer

September 105:30 – 7:00 pm. Come meet like minded professionals, making connections and having fun! Bring lots of business cards! Members are $5 and prospective/ gusts are $20. Forbes Mill Restaurant 200 Sycamore Valley Road West, Danville. danvilleareachamber.com San Ramon Chamber of Commerce Third Thursday Mixer 5:30-7pm. Meet other business owners for an opportunity to network and make your business more visible. $5 for Members and $20 for Non-Members.No RSVP Required. Checks and Cash only please.

San Ramon Chamber of Commerce New and Future Member Orientation4-5pm. Learn about the various Chamber services that can benefi t your business. Free. RSVP 925-242-0600. San Ramon Chamber of Commerce, Bishop Ranch 6,2400 Camino Ramon Conference Room 158/K, San Ramon

CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS

Danville-Alamo-Walnut Creek Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) advances equity for women and girls through advocacy, education, philanthropy and research. AAUW membership is open to all graduates of accredited four year colleges or universities and those holding an Associate Degree or equivalent. Prospective members are welcome and may contact Liz at 389-0152 for details. Visit daw-ca.aauw.net for meeting dates.

Cancer workshops and support groups-OngoingMost are f ree. Cancer Support Community, 3276 McNutt Avenue, Walnut Creek. Information / reservations call (925) 933-0107 or visit www.cancersupportcommunity.net.

Fibro? CFIDS? Chronic Pain? If these are familiar to you, call about the San Ramon Valley support group for people who need support, information, classes and friendship from people who know what it’s like. We like to laugh while getting well. Call 925-837-0510.

Hope Hospice Grief Support Groups-OngoingHope Hospice provides support to help you understand and manage grief in a way that is healthy and appropriate. Our Grief Support Center is available to all community members at minimal or no cost. Information: visit www.HopeHospice.com or call 925-829-8770.

Hospice of the East Bay Support groups and workshops for adults, children and teens experiencing grief after the death of a loved one. Classes will be offered at Hospice’s Administrative Offi ces: 3470 Buskirk Avenue; Pleasant Hill and the Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation: 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek. Pre-registration is required for all groups and classes, except our drop-in group. To register, please call Hospice of the East Bay: (925) 887-5681. Information: www.hospiceeastbay.org

Wind ‘n Sea Sailing Club Sailing training classes take place at members’ homes. Information: Call Jan at 925-837-3381.

RECURRING

Mondays:The Walnut Creek Garden Club Meets the second Monday of each month. Meeting begins at 9:30 with community and socializing from 10:30 to 11:00. You do not need to be a gardener to join the club. The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Road, Walnut Creek. Information: californiagardenclubs.com/content/walnut-creek-garden-club or [email protected]

Danville Rotary12pm. Meets every Monday. Faz Restaurant, Danville. Information: danvillerotary.org.

San Ramon Alzheimer Support Group7-9pm. Meets the second Monday of each month, except on holidays. Sponsored by the Alzheimer Association. People who know or are caregivers of Alzheimer victims can get information on how to help them through this diffi cult time in life. San Ramon Senior & Community Center, 9300 Alcosta Blvd., San Ramon. Information: 925-973-3250.

Sons In Retirement (Las Trampas Branch) Monthly Luncheon11:30am. Meets the third Monday of each month, except for May and December. Make new friends, participate in fun activities. Make $15 luncheon reservations by calling 925-322-1160 by the preceding Wednesday. Walnut Creek Elks Lodge, 1475 Creekside Dr, Walnut Creek. Information: visit www.Branch116.org.

Tuesdays:Danville am Toastmasters7-8:30am. Meets every Tuesday. New members welcome. Danville Women’s Club, 242 W. Linda Mesa Ave., Danville. Information: danvilleam.freetoasthost.org.

Danville/Sycamore Valley Rotary7am. Meets every Tuesday morning. Crow Canyon Country Club, Danville. Information: dsvrotary.com.

Diablo View Toastmasters8:15-9:15am. Meets every Tuesday. CMG Mortgage, 4th Floor Conference Room, 3160 Crow Canyon Rd., San Ramon. Information: 4160.toastmastersclubs.org.

Walnut Creek Kiwanis Club12:10-1:30pm. Meets every Tuesday. Massimo’s Ristorante, 1604 Locust Street, Walnut Creek. Information: kiwanisofwalnutcreek.org.

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

ARF Pet Loss Support Group5:30-7pm. Meets second Tuesday of every month. Register with Vicki at 925-887-5681 or [email protected]. ARF, 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: arf.net.

Prostate Cancer Group7:30–9pm. Meets 2nd Tuesday of the month. Drop-in prostate cancer group for men and their loved ones. San Ramon Regional Medical Center, South Building, West Day Room. 6001 Norris Canyon Road, San Ramon. Information: 925.933.0107 or www.twc-bayarea.org/community-programs.html.

Wednesdays:Walnut Creek Toastmasters7-8:15pm. Meets every Wednesday. 1660 Oak Park Blvd., Pleasant Hill. Information: walnutcreek.freetoasthost.net

Hospice of the East Bay Drop-in Bereavement Support4:30-6pm, 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of every month. 3470 Buskirk Avenue; Pleasant Hill. Information: 925-887-5681 or visit www.hospiceeastbay.org.

Alamo Rotary 12:15pm. Meets every Wednesday. Round Hill Country Club, 3169 Roundhill Road, Alamo. Information: alamorotary.org.

Danville Toastmasters Club #17857:30-9pm. Meets every Wednesday. Room W204 at Diablo Valley College,1690 Wa te rm i l l Road , San Ramon . Information: danvilletoastmasters1785.com.

San Ramon Valley Rotary7pm. Meets every Wednesday. Blackhawk Country Club, 599 Blackhawk Club Drive, 711 Silver Lake Drive, Danville. Info: sanramonvalleyrotary.com. Danville Lions Club7pm. Meets the fi rst and third Wednesday each month at The Brass Door at 2154 San Ramon Valley Blvd. in San Ramon. Information: [email protected]

www.valleysentinel.com

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Community News & Information

Publisher/Editor - Denise Rousset Chief Financial Offi cer - Jeff Gummere

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Community News & Information

Exchange Club of San Ramon Valley12pm. Meets the second Wednesday of every month. Sign-in and social time begins at 11:30. Guests are welcome with lunch reservations. Faz Restaurant, 600 Hartz Ave., Danville. RSVP 925-275-2412. Info: visit www.srvexchangeclub.org

Walnut Creek Host Lion’s Club12:15pm. Meets the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Wednesdays of each month. Black Bear Diner, 700 Bancroft Road, Walnut Creek. Information: walnutcreeklions.org.

Blue Star Moms7-9pm. Meets the second Wednesday of every month to participate in service activities supporting sons/daughters serving in the military. Danville Veterans Memorial Building, 400 Hartz Ave. Information: bluestarmoms.org.

Sons in Retirement (San Ramon Valley chapter) Monthly Luncheon10:30am; Social Hour, 11:35am Meeting and lunch. Meets the 3rd Wed. of each month. $23 includes luncheon. A great opportunity to socialize. To reserve a space, please email us by Friday prior to luncheon at [email protected]. Location: San Ramon Golf Club, 9430 Fircrest Lane, San Ramon. Information: www.SIR128.com.

Diablo Valley Quilters7-9pm. Meets the third Wednesday of every month. No charge for guests. Danville Congregational Church, 989 San Ramon Valley Blvd., Danville. Information: diablovalleyquilters.com.

Veterans of Foreign Wars7pm. Meets the third Wednesday of every month. Veterans Memorial Hall, 400 Hartz Avenue, Danville. Information: Post Commander Ernie Petagara at 925-362-9806 or vfwpost75.org.

Diablo Singles Dance Club7-10pm. Meets the last Wednesday of every month. Live music, refreshments. Members $8, Guests $12. All welcome. 111N. Wiget Lane, Walnut Creek.

Thursdays:San Ramon Valley Newcomers11:30am-2pm. Meets the third Thursday of every month with a featured guest speaker at a local Tri-Valley restaurant. $12. New and long-time adult residents are welcome. Reservations/information: 925-837-9600 or www.srvnc.com.

Rotary Club of San Ramon11:45am. Meets every Thursday. Crow Canyon Country Club, 711 Silver Lake Drive, Danville. Information: sanramonrotary.org.

San Ramon Valley Kiwanis Club1st, 2nd and 4th Thursdays at Noon,

and the 3rd Wednesdays at 6pm—all at Round Hill Country Club, 3169 Round Hill Rd., Alamo. www.kiwanis-srv.org.

Clutterers Anonymous7-8pm. Meets the 2nd and 4th Thursday of every month. St. Luke’s Lutheran Church room 3, 2491 San Miguel Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: 925-736-8627.

Diablo Valley Lions Club7:30pm. Meets the 1st, 3rd, and 4th Thursday of every month. 1400 Montego Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: diablovalleyca.lionwap.org.

Fridays:Transitions - “Navigating Life’s Turning Points Together” 9-11:30am. Our group now has a new name, which has been changed from TENS to Transitions. Our mission is to encourage and support women from empty nest, to aging parents and everything in between. Community Presbyterian Church, Room 116, 222 W. El Pintado Rd., Danville. Information: Contact Donna Hill at [email protected]

Saturdays:Diablo Region of the Porsche Club of America7:30-9am. Meets every Saturday. Buttercup Bar and Grill, 660 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek. Information: diablo-pca.org.

Parkinson’s Disease Support Group9am. Meets every 3rd Saturday. Join us to share, laugh, and learn from each other. Meeting location is the Fireside Room at Grace Presbyterian Church, 2100 Tice Valley Blvd., Walnut Creek. Contact Gregg Riehl at (925) 254-8349 or [email protected]. Caregivers meet at same time in Oak Room of Grace Church. Information: Howard Zalkin at 925 939 4210 or Ronnie Wanetick at 925 933 6357 Free. All are welcome.

Sundays:Cars n Coffee: First Sunday of Every Month8-10am. Blackhawk Automotive Museum is hosting Cars and Coffee for automotive enthusiasts in the parking lots of Blackhawk Plaza. Our partner, Scott’s Catering, will provide coffee and other refreshments. Blackhawk Museum; 3700 Blackhawk Plaza Circle; Danville. Information: www.blackhawkmuseum.org.

HELP WANTEDTesting & QA Engineer: Bach in Mngmt Info Systems or rltd. & 5 yr. rltd. exp. Bank of the West. Job in San Ramon, CA 94583. CV to [email protected]

Classif ieds

AUTOMarch 2009page 14 The Valley SenTinel September 2015 valleysentinel.com

2015 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid Sel PremiumBy Judy and David Colman

May 2015 was a happy month at VW. U.S. sales soared by 8 percent to 34,758. Compare that to Fiat/Chrysler’s rise of 4 percent, GM’s 3 percent growth, fl at sales for Nissan and Toyota, and Ford’s 1 percent loss, and there’s fi nally a reason for optimism at VW’s beleaguered North American outpost. If the 2015 Jetta Hybrid we recently tested is indicative of the company’s newfound attention to detail and quality, then VW has reason to be optimistic about May’s sales portending a sustained trend here. Unlike most hybrids, which require performance sacrifi ces to compensate for fuel savings, the Jetta Hybrid lets you have it all. Not only is it satisfyingly fast in acceleration, but it is also exceptional at conserving fuel. This Jetta posts an astonishing 45 MPG overall rating, with 42 MPG available in city driving and 48 MPG on the highway. Given the Jetta’s fuel tank capacity of 11.8 gallons, your range between gas stations pencils out at 531 miles. In view of the Hybrid’s moderate base price of $31,120, this VW offers affordability

at purchase reinforced by economy throughout the ownership cycle. It’s no wonder that EPA/DOT’s “Fuel Economy & Greenhouse Gas Rating” confers a perfect score of 10 out of 10 on this Hybrid.

But unlike so many other Hybrids with their dodgy steering, tiny rock hard tires, and futuristic interiors, this Jetta is no Jetson. Rather, it behaves like any other VW product engineered in Wolfsburg, Germany. The seats, dashboard layout, instrumentation, and shift mechanism will all look familiar to longtime VW owners. The super supportive front seats are exceptionally comfortable and nicely fi nished. The back bench seat works well for medium sized adults, with a useful drop down armrest available between the two outboard positions. Those taller than 5’8” might fi nd foot room restricted when the front seats are positioned at their mid-track position. Although the Hybrid unit necessitates a rather large hump intruding into trunk storage, you can partially overcome the problem by folding both rear

seats fl at to gain more space. That armrest between the back seats contain a handy knockout panel which allows you to carry elongated cargo like skis while still leaving the seat backs in their upright position. All in all, a typically useful VW smorgasbord of carriage options.

Whereas most Hybrids infl ict jerky power transitions in the switchover from electric to gas operation, this Jetta makes the switch quietly and unobtrusively. The only time you really notice the amalgamation of power sources is when you tromp the accelerator. That’s when the sudden infusion of turbo boost and electric motor thrust enables the Jetta to spring forward decisively. In fact, the seat of your pants will quickly inform you that this Jetta’s 177hp is more than enough to cope with any power need you may encounter. The fi rst time I pulled out to pass a slower car on a 2 lane highway, I was gratifi ed to complete the maneuver with a huge safety margin I frankly did not expect. You can drive this Jetta over challenging terrain, safe in the knowledge that it

will handle crisply. The surfeit of adhesion is due in part to the Hybrid’s stable platform, precise electro-mechanical speed sensitive power steering, 17 inch standard alloy rims, and sportingly serviceable Continental Conti Pro Contact rubber (205/50R17).

From a performance standpoint, the one area where the Hybrid is defi cient is braking feel. Like so many others of its ilk which depend on regenerative braking to recycle brake heat into energy, this one too suffers from a somewhat spongy and unpredictable pedal. When the same amount of braking force does not always produce the same stopping result, it leads to the inescapable conclusion that pedal feel is a crap shoot that varies from stop to stop. But in the big picture, it’s a relatively minor irritation that can be avoided by always braking earlier than you normally would.

Aside from that caveat, the 2015 Jetta is a thumbs-up proposition all around. VW has done a minor facelift of the grill, and added Bi-Xenon adaptive headlights to the SEL Premium package, along with a new dash center stack, and upgraded interior materials. All in all, the Hybrid Jetta garners best-n-class honors by offering scintillating performance combined with stupendous fuel economy.

2015 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid Sel Premium

Engine: 1.4 Liter inline 4, turbocharged & electric motor with battery pack

Horsepower: 177hpTorque: n/aFuel consumption: 42mpg

city/48 mpg highwayPrice as tested: $32,490Hypes: 500 miles to the

11.8 Gallon tank!Gripes: spongy brakesStar rating: 9 stars out of 10

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The Agency provides Adult Day Care, Friendly Visitors, Family Care Provider programs and training, assisted transportation, meal plans, and legal services. For more information about the agency and its services check out their website at ehsd.org/elderly-disabled/area-agency-on-aging or call (800) 510-2020.

With advancements in medicine and technology, we are all living longer. We are fortunate to have many other services for seniors provided by our cities and by local churches and non-profit organizations. Another great place to find additional resources in our community is by calling the Contra Costa Crisis Center by dialing 211.

My office is here to serve the residents of Contra Costa County District 2, which includes San Ramon, Danville, Alamo, Walnut Creek, Saranap, Parkmead, Lafayette, Moraga, Canyon and Orinda. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if we can provide you with additional information on this topic or on other County issues. I can be reached at [email protected] or 925-957-8860.

Special thanks to summer intern Peter Hutchinson for his contributions to this article.

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Protecting the elderlyBy Candace Andersen. Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors

I recently returned from spending a week with my parents who are now in their mid-80’s. They live 2000 miles away in Honolulu, in the home I grew up in. Although they are in reasonably good health and able to take care of themselves, I still worry about someone trying to take advantage of them. I had some great conversations with my father about the safeguards he has in place and new ones we could implement together to ensure that he and my mother are secure.

Many of us have older relatives that we think about or care for. Our County, through our District Attorney’s Office and Employment and Human Services Department, has a program to help safeguard our seniors. Adult Protective Services (APS) is designed to prevent elder abuse. APS is staffed with specially trained social workers who provide preventative and remedial services to seniors and dependent adults with the goal of keeping them independent in their homes as long as possible. APS staff is prepared and trained to handle all levels of abuse, including criminal. The agency develops and maintains directories of

services for elder and dependent adults that are available to community members.

The program is designed to help the District Attorney’s office investigate reports of elder abuse. Abuse could include physical, financial, psychological, neglect, abandonment, isolation, and abduction. Suspected elder and dependent adult abuse should be reported to Adult Protective Services, as well as the Police. One thing that APS cannot do is take an elder or dependent adult out of the home and place them in “protective custody.” All services provided by APS are voluntary and can be declined by the elder or dependent adult. For more information or to report abuse, please call (925) 646-2854 or (925) 602-4179.

The County also provides other services through the Area Agency on Aging (AAA). The Area Agency on Aging was formed in 1975 by the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors to develop a system of care and support for adults aged 60 and older and adults with disabilities to lead independent and dignifi ed lives in their own homes for as long as possible. Committed to identifying services and meeting unmet needs, the AAA works to coordinate existing programs and develop new services, by partnering with community organizations and pursuing funding resources that can help to enhance or create new programs.

The stories of this trek in the same year that the Declaration of Independence was signed on the East Coast are a reminder of this nation’s historical connection to Spain, a history which is often overlooked.

The Anza expedition also had a tragic element: It ushered in the end of traditional tribal life for thousands of Indians, whose cultures had thrived throughout California for 10,000 years. The arrival of the Spanish and the mission system brought disease and a dire disruption of cultural and religious traditions.

Native American culture still thrives in the East Bay on a smaller scale, and the East Bay Regional Park District offers numerous places to learn about and participate in the ways of California’s original inhabitants.

For those wishing to re-trace the steps of Anza and his crew, the Park District offers many miles of trail that are part of the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail. Some of these trails were well-worn Indian routes. In the East Bay, the trail begins in Fremont and follows the foothills north, roughly along present-day Interstate 580, hits the bay near Point Pinole and hugs

the shoreline around the Carquinez Strait, dipping south at Concord, then returning to the shoreline at Bay Point. At Oakley, the trail veers south (where the de Anza expedition could not penetrate the Delta marshes), skirting Livermore, going through the Diablo Range and returning to Monterey.

The Park District is proud to preserve these historical places, Spanish and Indian alike. Come explore the trails, envision the East Bay through their eyes, and read more about the expedition at www.ebparks.org/about/history/anzahistoric

ANZAfrom page 11


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See Our Progress in the Bay Area

At PG&E, our customers are our neighbors. The communities we serve as PG&E employees are where we live and work too.

That’s why we’re investing $5 billion this year to enhance pipeline safety and strengthen our gas and electric infrastructure across northern and central California. It’s why we’re helping people and businesses gain energy efficiencies to help reduce their bills. It’s why we’re focused on developing the next generation of clean, renewable energy systems.

Together, we are working to enhance pipeline safety and strengthen our gas and electric infrastructure—for your family and ours.

See the FActS IN the BAY AreA

Replaced more than 30 miles of gas transmission pipeline

Invested more than $2.1 billion into electrical improvements

Connected more than 65,000 rooftop solar installations

“

”

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Peter Tran Gas Service Representative san Leandro residenT

It’s very satisfying to be able to help the people in the community where I live. My customers are my friends and neighbors, and it feels good to provide them with safe and reliable service.

PGE_10x13_PeterT_0624 copy.indd 1 6/30/15 10:44 AM

The Valley Sentinel_Sept 2015

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Transcript of The Valley Sentinel_Sept 2015