The Valley Sentinel_Nov 2011

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

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Alamo • Danville • Blackhawk • Diablo • San Ramon

VOL 16, NO 11 November 2011 SEVENTY-FIVE CENTSalways for the community valleysentinel.com SENTINELTHE ALLEYV

SPOTLIGHT

Veterans DayCelebration

November 11

Performing Art Center

San Ramon Valley High School

501 Danville Blvd.

11am(doors open at 10am)

This event is free and open to the public

For more information see calendar listing on page 12

Special Sections inside...

Find out what’s new in the Valley at

activities • Businesses • Seniors • education • Sports and more...www.valleysentinel.com

Holiday Giving page 10

Senior Living page 7

Sustainable Contra Costa honors outstanding commitment to sustainable practicesBy Laurie Prindle

T h e T h i r d Annual Sustainable Contra Costa Awards Celebration was held at the beautiful and “green” Lafayette Veterans’ Memorial Building on October 7th. Several awards we re p re s en t ed in recognition of ind iv idua l s and organizations for their outstanding contributions and commitment to a healthy environment, economy, and society.

Out of 30 nominees, the winners were as follows;

Individual - Cindy Egan (pictured above), San Ramon Valley High School teacher who left a lucrative engineering career in private industry to create the school’s Environmental Engineering Program.

See SCOCO awardspage 5

Save Mount Diablo recently won an estate court auction to purchase the 145-acre Thomas “Home Ranch” for $1,376,500. “The other bidder was almost certainly a developer, said Ron Brown, SMD’s executive director. Also known as “Thomas North,” the Home Ranch is being acquired at the same time that East Bay Regional Park District is purchasing the 160-acre “Thomas Central” and 852-acre “Thomas South,” and a few months after their purchase of the 798-acre Barron property, another Thomas property and the fi nal gap between Mount Diablo State Park and Black Diamond Mines. Although those properties are bigger, they are also more rugged and remote. The Home Ranch was far

Saving Thomas Home Ranch145 Acre Gateway to Nortonville Canyon

more developable, threatened and expensive.

It was a close call. The park district was interested in purchasing the property but a variety of problems, including developer competition, timing, and technical issues related to funding threatened to get in the way. SMD stepped in to help. “The park district is very grateful for Save Mount Diablo’s role in protecting this strategic property at the mouth of Nortonville Canyon,” said Nancy Wenninger, Assistant General Manager/Land Division for the district. “We were very interested in this acquisition but we weren’t going to be able to

complete the purchase. Save Mount Diablo’s ability to move quickly and be fl exible really made the deal happen.

Thomas is gateway to beautiful Nortonville Canyon and Kirker Pass. Above it a rugged open space corridor stretches from Black Diamond north toward Suisun Bay. I t s pro tec t ion decreases development threats to the canyon and pass area. It’s a critical recreational connection, historically important, and biologically rich.

“Thomas is one of the best examples of the importance of our organization,” said Brown. “It underscores our fl exibility and ability to step in and acquire an important piece of land. This

See RANCHpage 4

While the Thomas Home Ranch, Save Mount Diablo’s latest acquisition, is being preserved for its strategic location, it includes a house built in the 1880s and a variety of historic structures. To fi nd out more, visit www.SaveMountDiablo.org (Photo by Scott Hein at www.HeinPhoto.com)

• ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT • dining out • music • art • theater • fun eventspage 2 valleysentinel.com

november 2011

Now - November 19 Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead Brilliant Comic Wit. “Life is what you do while you wait for something to happen” would be an apt description of Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, incidental characters in Shakespeare’s great tragedy Hamlet. The Village Theatre,

233 Front St . , Danvi l le. Information: 820-1278.

November 1 - November 29 November 6: Reception: 2-4pm T h e A r t C o n n e c t i o n –Paintings

Lindsay Dirkx Brown Art Gallery at the San Ramon Community Center, 12501

Alcosta Boulevard, San Ramon. Information: 973-3200.

November 7 Leo Kottke

7:30pm. Kottke has created an entirely new language for six and 12-string guitars, embracing folk styles and pop melodies as readily as jazz and classical infl uences. Tickets: $14-$40. Bankhead Theater, 2400 First St., Livermore. Information: 373-6800

November 8 “Shakespeare Suppressed” with author Kather ine Chiljan 7pm. Author Katherine Chiljan will speak on William Shakespea re, t he mos t celebrated and most read poet and dramatist in history and the new book she has written about him. Her discussion will include a look at his personal and artistic life and the controversy surrounding the man and his works. Ms. Chiljan is an independent scholar who has studied Shakespeare’s authorship for over 26 years. She has written articles for the newsletter of the Shakespeare-Oxford Society, and is a former Society trustee. Danville Library, 400 Front Street. Information: 837-4889.

November 10 MacHomer

7:30pm. Rick Miller’s one-man spectacular features more than 50 voices from the popular hit television series The Simpsons in a hilarious rendition of Shakespeare’s Macbeth. Tickets: $14-$51. Bankhead Theater, 2400 First St., Livermore. Information: 373-6800

November 11 Lakota Sioux Dance Theatre

7:30pm. Share in the cultural and artistic legacies of the Lakota people through imagery, music, storytelling, and dance. This performance it delivers a powerful and uplifting message of hope and renewal of the spirit. Tickets: $14-$62. Bankhead Theater, 2400 First St., Livermore. Information: 373-6800.

November 11 Jazz at the Library- FivePlay Jazz Quintet

8pm. A Bay Area-based band of long-time musical compatriots, playing original melodic modern jazz to be enjoyed by everyone, whether you’re an experienced jazz listener or you’re hearing jazz for the fi rst time. Tickets: $20 each (seniors 62+ and students $15). Proceeds fund the San Ramon Library Jazz Collection and scholarships for youth jazz education. San Ramon Library, 100 Montgomery Street. For information or to order tickets visit www.sanramonjazz.org.

November 12 MooNiE and BrooN: FooLish MortaLs

7pm. Improvisational variety comedy. Renaissance Faire veterans bring whips, clubs and music to the indoor stage. Tickets: $20. Del Valle Theatre at Lesher Center, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. Information: 943-7469.

November 14 – January 14 Nunset Boulevard

The Nuns are back and have been invited to sing at the Hollywood Bowl, only it is Hollywood Bowl-erama - a bowling alley with a cabaret

l o u n g e . Tickets: $20-$32. Willows Theater, 1975 D i a m o n d B l v d . , C o n c o r d . Information and show times: 798-1300.

November 15 MOMIX “Botanica”

7:30pm. With works of inventive physical beauty, this revolutionary dance company traces the unfolding of the earth’s seasons in a mesmerizing multimedia experience set to an eclectic score. Stunning costumes and props evoke animal and plant forms in wild color and shapes. An unforgettable fantasyland that is surreal & awe-inspiring. Tickets: $14-$51. Bankhead Theater, 2400 First St., Livermore. Information: 373-6800

November 18 Al Stewart 8pm. Popular mythology, history, astrology and romance come together in the alluring songs from this Scottish singer-songwriter evoking tales of historical characters and events with a satisfying folk-rock vibe. Tickets: $14-$40. Bankhead Theater, 2400 First St., Livermore. Information: 373-6800.

November 18 & 19Diablo Ballet

Nov.18: 7:30pm, Nov. 19: 2pm & 7:30pm. An exciting ba l l e t w i th l ive mus ic, d rama t i c cho reog raphy and great set and costume designs. Tickets: $46-$49. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. Information: 943-7469.

On October 19, the Danville Area Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon-cutting to welcome the new boutique, Queen of Arts Creative Studios to Danville. Partners Sharon Barker and Janelle Johnson will be offering a variety of painting, sculpture, and mixed-media courses for both children and adults. Ms. Barker has been an art instructor for over 12 years teaching many areas of creative visual arts. She has taught art in San Leandro, Oakland, and San Ramon, and is currently the art instructor at both Quail Run Elementary and Creek Side Elementary. Mrs. Johnson has been a teacher for 22 years and has taught children

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Collected by the San Ramon Valley Rotary Clubthrough Wednesday December 14th, 2011

For drop-off sites visit www.sanramonvalleyrotary.com and click “Events & Program Calendar”

One Warm Coat“Protection from the cold”

Donations for those in need to Local East Bay

& outreach charities

Coats – Sweaters – Blanketsfor

Men, Women, Children & Infants

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Presented by the Walnut Creek Chamber of Commerce and Downtown Business Association

Open daily from November 11-January 16 at Civic Park

Children’s Winter Festival Saturday, November 12 from 11am-2pm.

Skating, face painters, balloon makers, ice sculpture, photos, live music, food, drinks & much more!

Walnut Creek on IceChildren’s Winter Festival

Saturday, November 12 from 11am-2pm.

925.935.SNOW (7669).www.IceSkateWalnutCreek.com

from pre kindergarten through 8th grade. She is currently the Science Lab teacher at Quail Run Elementary in San Ramon.

Winter 2012 sessions will be available for sign-ups in December, including the Homework Club focusing on science and reading themed classed with the intention to learn while having fun. Private or semi-private art lessons will also be available.

Visit Queen of Arts Creative Studios at 155 Railroad Ave., Suite D, or call (925) 263-2533 for information.

Queen of Arts new in townBy Staff Writer

• ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT • dining out • music • art • theater • fun eventsvalleysentinel.com page 3

On Wednesday evening, September 28th, the Alamo Chamber o f Commerce held its monthly mixer as well as a ribbon-cutting at Sweet Celebrations located in the Alamo Plaza. Pictured above, Mary Garcia, center, cuts the ribbon to celebrate the recent huge expansion of Sweet Celebrations. This was a lot of fun. The weather was perfect, the food was wonderful and everybody was in great spirits.

S i n c e 1 9 9 5 , S w e e t Celebrations has provided a fun shop filled with fine chocolates, bulk candy, specialty balloons and party supplies for all occasions. Their services include custom printed invitations, banners, and even candy bar wrappers that may be completed in 24 hours or

Sweet Celebrations new in townBy Staff Writer

Photo by Alicia Watson

less. Balloon deliveries are available every day throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. They are truly the best source for party balloons, making arrangements, gar lands. “sculptures” and shapes to enhance the themes of any celebration.

You can v is i t Sweet Celebrations every day at 170-C Alamo Plaza in Alamo. They are located between Alamo Pets and the Post Offi ce. For more information, call (925) 855-4640. Or visit www.balloonsnow.com.

November 18 & 19 Night at the Improv

8pm. An interactive evening of improvisational comedy. The show is created on the spot with the help of audience participation and suggestions. Not suitable for children under the age of 18. Tickets: $10. Front Row Theater, 17011 Bollinger Canyon Rd., San Ramon. Information: 973-2787.

November 20 Contra Cos ta Chamber Orchestra 2pm. Cellist Eric Sung, heard by millions in movie theaters around the world in Pirates of the Caribbean and King Kong, joins the Orchestra in a performance of Tchaikovsky’s Variations on a Rococo Theme. Also selections from Carmen. Tickets: $10-$30. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. Information: 943-7469.

November 25 & 26 Smuin Ballet: The Christmas Ballet

Nov. 25: 8pm, Nov. 26, 2pm & 8pm. This holiday celebration combines beautiful and classic performances with

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c h a r m i n g , h u m o r o u s , and sexy dance pieces, from bal le t , tap , and swing to a wealth of other dances drawn from holiday traditions from around the world. Tickets: $54-$67 Hofmann Theatre at Lesher Center, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. Information: 943-7469.

November 25 – December 4 White Christmas Two buddies put on a show in a Vermont Inn and fi nd their perfect mates in the process. Tickets: $44. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. Information and show times: 943-7469.

Nov. 28 - Dec. 31 The Winter Wonderettes Join the Wonderettes as they entertain at the 1968 Holiday Party for Harper’s Hardware. Full of humor and classic melodies. Campbell Theatre, 636Ward Street, Martinez.

Information, tickets and show times: 798-1300

November 29 Walnut Creek Concert Band Holiday Concert

7:30pm. Ring in the Season with our Annual Holiday Concert, a Walnut Creek Tradition! Hofmann Theatre at Lesher Center, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. Information and tickets: 943-7469.

November 30 David Benoit “A Charlie Brown Christmas” 7:30pm. Join pianist David Benoit, accompanied by his quartet and a local children’s chorus, for the magical music from the Charl ie Brown television specials. A delightful reminder of a happy holiday tradition. Tickets: $14-$51. Bankhead Theater, 2400 First St., Livermore. Information: 373-6800.

December 4 Hawaiian Holidays 2pm & 4pm. An exciting mix of traditions, ancient hula, as well as hula danced to popular Christmas melodies, powerful Tahitian drumming, unbelievably fast hip action, and moving Polynesian chants. Dougherty Valley Performing Arts Center, 10550 Albion Rd. San Ramon. Information and tickets: 973-3343.

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What is Tennis Elbow?Tennis elbow, or lateral

epicondylitis, is similar to its counterpart, golfer’s elbow. The primary differences between these conditions are the location of the pain and the activity that leads to injury. However, both conditions are caused by overuse of the muscles and tendons of the forearm, leading to inflammation and pain around the elbow joint. This is commonly called tendonitis. Tennis is one common cause of tendonitis, but many other sports and work related activities can cause the same problem.

By Dr. Niele Maimone, DC

Advertorial

Tennis Elbow Anyone?Healing tennis elbow with class IV laser therapy

The cause of tennis elbow can vary from a single violent action (acute injury) to, more commonly, a repetitive stress injury where an action is performed repeatedly and pain gradually develops. In an acute injury of the elbow, inflammation occurs without substantial tissue damage. However, in a repetitive stress situation a person may experience damage to the tendon and surrounding soft tissue causing tissue degeneration over time. Inflammation from acute injury often responds quickly to rest and anti-inflammatory treatment. However, if the injury is due to tendon tissue degeneration, treatment will be

longer and will be focused on improving the strength of the tendon as well as rebuilding tissues.Tennis Elbow Symptoms

With tennis elbow the pain is on the outside of the elbow and may radiate down the forearm into the wrist. It can be common to have pain and/or weakness when turning a door knob, holding a coffee cup or shaking hands.Treatment for Tennis Elbow

Te n n i s e l b ow d o e s not usually cause any long-term disability. However, the condition may become stubborn and proper rehabilitation will help alleviate the symptoms and get you back to life again.

R e s t a n d R e d u c e Inflammation: The first step a person should take if tendonitis is suspected is to stop the activities that cause the pain and inflammation. Use a topical cream containing Arnica to begin to reduce the inflammatory process quickly.

Laser Therapy to Heal the

Damaged Tissue: Ending the pain caused by tennis elbow requires healing the damaged tissue. Class IV laser therapy is an excellent method for this, because it is presently the only form of therapy that can both reduce inflammation and heal tissue simultaneously. Laser treatments at Align Healing Center are done with the K-laser 1200 a Class IV Laser. This laser does not cut or burn but is gently absorbed by the tissue. During Laser Therapy the infrared laser light interacts with tissues at the cellular level, increasing metabolic activity and improving the transport of nutrients across the cell membrane. This initiates the production of cellular energy (ATP) that leads to a cascade of beneficial effects, increasing cellular function and health. This creates an optimal healing environment that reduces inflammation, swelling, muscle spasms, stiffness, scar tissue and pain.

Correct the Mechanics of Motion: Assessing the forearm, elbow, shoulder and spine for proper postural feedback is done to diagnose and correct improper alignment. After

proper alignment is restored, specific muscular taping is applied to improve circulation and insure proper motion on a daily basis. Lastly, specific strengthening and stretching exercises are given. By strengthening the muscles and tendons involved with tennis elbow, you can prevent the problem from returning.

At Align Healing Center we are having great success not only treating tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow, but also treating plantar fasciitis, sciatica, shoulder and neck pain, migraines, arthritis, carpal tunnel, post surgical pain, sports injuries and more; even long-term residual pain. Arthritis and degenerative disc disease sufferers can see long term benefits from this treatment without any of the negative side effects experienced with the long term use of medications.

Dr. Niele Maimone, DC is the owner and founder of Align Healing Center in Danville, CA. She has been active in our natural health & wellness community since 1999. For more information or to set up a consult call 925.362.8283 or visit www.alignhealingcenter.com.

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Save Mount Diablo saved the Thomas Ranch in just a few days, and had to pay the purchase price in cash. Funding was provided by SMD’s Mary Bowerman Fund - donations at work.

Resources, Recreation, and Corridors

The Home Ranch has flat, easily developable areas surrounded by steep hills and crossed by two deeply incised tributaries of Kirker Creek. The creeks thread two major canyons that converge on the property and a third canyon drops onto it as well, from Keller Landfill protected open space. The topography and creeks guarantee that the property is both a major wildlife corridor connection and also a major regional trail connection from Black Diamond Mines and Nortonville along the creeks, down into Pittsburg and across Kirker Pass Road.

The 145.5 acre property is made up of three parcels.

54.5 mostly flat acres wedged between Kirker Pass and Nortonville Roads include the original 1880s house and more recent barns, an oasis surrounded by large fruit, nut and other trees—pomegranates, figs, walnut, elderberry, and huge pepper trees.

You can easi ly cross Nortonville Road to a 10.5 acre area dominated by Kirker Creek, sinuous and lined with big oaks, willows and cottonwoods and with a fire road leading north to the location of the proposed Buchanan Bypass, in a steep sandstone striped canyon. The t rees a t t rac t many bird species, including rare loggerhead shrikes. The highly endangered San Joaquin kit fox was confirmed in Nortonville Canyon in 1992 and has been seen in the regional preserve more recently

The largest parcel, 80.5 acres, is west of Kirker Pass

Road and crosses Kirker Creek at the 280 ft. elevation before rising to the property’s highest elevation of 850 feet. It includes an 8-foot high cattle tunnel which crosses underneath Kirker Pass Road as does a smaller culvert. In addition to its use by cattle and wildlife, it will allow a major regional trail connection.

Visit the Thomas Home Ranch

Kirker Pass Road crosses the Home Ranch between the mile and half mile mark south of the Pittsburg city limits, and if you turn on to Nortonville Road the property is easily seen on both sides as well. Thomas Home Ranch will not be open to the public for some time, but Save Mount Diablo will lead guided tours on the property on Saturday, November 12th and December 3rd.

Read the full article about Thomas Home Ranch and hikes at www.SaveMountDiablo.org.

RANCHfrom page 1

valleysentinel.com november 2011 The Valley SenTinel page 5

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SCOCO awardsfrom page 1

School - Meher School which has a school-wide community garden program.

Lifetime Achievement - Mary Lou Laubscher whose lifelong passion has been advocating for social justice, health and food security in the densely populated low-income Monument Corridor in Concord. Among other things Mary Lou founded the Cambridge Community Center and was influential in establishing the Markham Nature Area, the Cambridge Elementary School bio-intensive garden and the Monument Community Partnership’s Community Gardens Action team.

Large business - Allied Waste Services of Contra Costa, a Certified Contra Costa Green Business with their own sustainability policy including the production of methane from its Keller Canyon Landfill to generate power and reduce the amount of methane in the environment. In addition Allied Waste partners with the Contra Costa Solid Waste Authority

and East Bay Municipal Utilities District Commercial Food Waste to Energy Project.

Small business - Food Service Technology Center, the leading food service sustainability program in the nation. FSTC’s mission is to provide practical, actionable, research-based guidance to the entire food service industry.

Non-profit - 2 winnersRichmond Youth Student

Empowerment (RYSE) Center contributes to the health of the Richmond/West Contra Costa County community by reducing violence, increasing youth leadership, improving physical and mental health, and increasing educational attainment. RYSE’s leadership, organizational structure, programs and partnerships with community service providers reflect the voice of youth and adult allies.

Sustainable Lafayette, a non-profit corporation whose mission is to provide the community of Lafayette with the information, inspiration, tools and assistance needed to facilitate the adoption of

sustainable practices.The organizations supports a wide variety of programs including the Sustainable Lafayette website, the Lafayette Chamber Green Committee, the District Green Team for the schools, and innovative and inspiring events such as the Earth Day Picnic and Celebration.

Government - Eastern Contra Costa Transit Authority (aka Tri Delta Transit), which carries over two million passengers annually. By upgrading their fleet and establishing a policy forbidding engine idling, they save fuel and reduce particulate matter emissions while reducing traffic congestion and providing transportation services to individuals who have no other means of traveling.

Award nominees were evaluated by a team of 16 judges on how well their actions reflect these basic areas of sus ta inabi l i ty : Environmental Health, Social Health and Wellbeing, and Economic Prosperity. They are also evaluated on their: scope of involvement and impact in the community; level of organization-wide involvement; uniqueness, being a model for others, and partnerships and collaboration with others.

The event included a silent and live auction to help raise funds for SCOCO’s programs, including its new programs, the Sustainability Advisors Program and a Speakers Bureau. SCOCO will continue its Sustainable Business Workshop Series, which this year included “Greening Your Restaurant and Food Service Business” and “Stimulus Dollars at Work

Is lung cancer common? Lung cancer is the number

one cause of death from cancer in the United States and worldwide. Although cancers like prostate cancer in males and breast cancer in female are more common than lung cancer, the aggressive nature of lung cancer makes it the number one killer. It has been almost five decades since the Surgeon General’s report in 1964 that linked smoking and lung cancer. Every cigarette package since 1970 has carried a warning made in the name of the Surgeon General. The increased awareness in the public has had some positive impact in reducing the incidence of lung cancer, but we have a long way to go.

What should you know about Lung Cancer?By: Amanpreet Buttar, MD

Advertorial

What causes lung cancer?By far the most common

cause of lung cancer is smoking. Passive smoking and second hand smoke increases the risk as well. Asbestos exposure increases the risk of lung cancer nine times. A combination of asbestos exposure and cigarette smoking raises the risk to as much as 50 times. A person who smokes more than one pack of cigarettes per day has a 20-25 times greater risk of developing lung cancer than someone who has never smoked.

Another significant cause of lung cancer deaths is exposure to radon gas. The Surgeon General has warned that radon is the second leading cause of death from lung cancer. Radon is a radioactive gas that emanates from the soil and gets trapped and builds up in our homes. It cannot be detected by either sight or smell.

Can it be prevented?Not smoking is the best

way to prevent the leading cause of lung cancer. If a person quits smoking, his or her risk for lung cancer gradually decreases, and at about 15 years after quitting, the risk for lung cancer decreases to the level of someone who never smoked. Various studies have been done to find out if any medicines like retinol (vitamin A), beta-carotene, N-acetylcysteine, and selenium can help reduce the risk of cancer for smokers, but there has been no promising outcome.

On the other hand, radon can be detected by using a radon test kit in our homes, and appropriate remedies are available in case the level is higher than the acceptable value of 4 pCi/L.Can it be detected early?

The aggressive nature of lung cancer has made it a

challenge to detect it in the early stages. Screening with chest x- ray alone has not proven very useful in lowering mortality associated with lung cancer. Recent studies, especially results from the National Lung Screening Trial, reported a decrease in death due to lung cancer when low dose CT was used for screening lung cancer. Unfortunately, this came with problems of over-diagnosis, cost effectiveness, and complications associated with further pursuing false positive results of the scan. Therefore, the decision to use CT scan for patients with a high risk for cancer should be made on an individual basis by the primary care physician and the patient.Advances in treatment

Once diagnosed with lung cancer the treatment strategy always depends on the stage of the disease. Recent developments in the treatment

include testing for molecular markers like EGFR and Alk1 to guide the kind of therapy. There are new agents available now that target these markers allowing a more personalized treatment for patients instead of the standard chemotherapy. This in turn has resulted in an improved outcome for patients with these markers. Another biologic agent called Avastin has also resulted in improved survival when added to chemotherapy. There is ongoing research to better understand the biology of lung cancer. This will help the oncologists use more targeted agents and deliver more personalized care, which avoids side effects of chemotherapy and improves the outcomes for patients suffering from this aggressive disease.

Dr. Buttar is a Medical Oncologist and Hematologist with Epic Care, a group of experts in the diagnosis and comprehensive treatment of cancer and blood disorders. www.epic-care.com.

for Residential Builders and Remodelers.” SCOCO also hosted several homeowner workshops to help people learn how they can get up to $9,000 in rebates to help pay for home energy improvements. Other SCOCO programs include the Sustainable Schools Alliance, the Sustainable Communities Summit, the educational “Green Booth” at farmers markets throughout the county, and the Sustainable Contra Costa

Network, a centralized website of solutions and resources for Contra Costa County.

Sustainable Contra Costa was founded in 2007. Its mission is to provide education and inspiration to create and maintain sustainable c o m m u n i t i e s . Fo r m o r e information visit the Sustainable Contra Costa website at www.sustainablecoco.org. To join the SCOCO network go to http://sustainablecoco.ning.com.

Sustainability advocates Eric and Marsha Golangco, Alan Osmundson, Greg Chan, Ellen Osmundson, John Coleman, Anne Cavazos, Sundong Kwong and Julie Dowling. (photos by Gustavo Fernandez.)


Donations Needed“Farmers” at San Ramon High School (students in the E2 Environmental Engineering Program) are looking for donations of your used garden hand tools. Please email us at [email protected] and arrangements will be made for convenient drop off or pick up.

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Expert offers tips on Bike SelectionBy Joan Trezek

Chances are that neither Alberto Contador nor Lance Armstrong has been sighted on the Iron Horse Trail nor speeding down Mt. Diablo. But, lots of enthusiastic Valley cyclists are making good use of both as well as many other streets and dirt trails. On pleasant weekends, local motorists find themselves instinctively veering toward the center stripe to allow breathing room to streams of fit, stylishly accessorized men and women.

Jose Gutierrez, owner of Danville Bikes since 1985 and

Jose Gutierrez, owner of Danville Bikes, has more tools than bikes in his shop…and he has a lot of bikes! He’s well stocked for the holidays.

an avid cyclist since childhood, appreciates the appeal of the sport. “There’s a great sense of freedom and independence

as you ride in the hills or take some time to see things up close and unhurried,” he says. He often assists prospective buyers in determining the best bike to purchase using some key questions:

• Howmuchhave youbeen riding?

• Where do you ride?(Big difference between Iron Horse’s paved surface and off road cycling)

• Whereisyoursenseofcomfort on a bike? Road cycle or the more rugged mountain bike?

• What’s your pricerange?

Deciding on the best bike isn’t always easy so Gutierrez suggests “demo-ing” the bike for a day. The fee for the day, generally $50-$100, is applied to the purchase price of the bike.

While he sells bikes in a broad range of prices, he says $500-$1500 is a reasonable range to consider for those getting into the sport. Accessories such as a good helmet, gloves, padded shorts, and a jersey add another $200 to the cost. “If cycling really becomes your passion, any bike priced less than $1000 is probably going to be upgraded in a few years to something in the $2000-3000 range.” The real aficionados often move on to custom-built bikes which command an even heftier sum.

Commenting on a trend he’s noticed in the last 5-10 years, Gutierrez points to the increase in off-road riders. “Typically these are people who are fit and want an “aggressive” ride. The technology developed for mountain bikes today allows these riders to experience a ride that’s responsive and enjoyable for those looking for something special.”

As a long-time cyclist himself and one who both services and sells bikes, Gutierrez offers some good tips: 1) Store bikes out of the weather when they’re not in use, 2) Don’t neglect bike tune-ups once or twice a year depending on bike use. However, his most compelling words of wisdom: “You’ll always lose against a car. Never assume a motorist can see you.”

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Where do “in-the-know” seniors in the Danville area head on Monday mornings? Some 60 of them—members o f the Danv i l l e Sen io r Cit izens Club—currently head to the Danville C o m m u n i t y Center ready for Bingo, Mah-Jongg, bridge, Rummikub, p i n o c h l e a n d , equally important, a healthy measure of fellowship and enjoyment.

According to President Patricia Graber, the club celebrated its 40th anniversary, thereby making it older than the city of Danville, incorporated in 1982. Many of the members are women who found their way to the organization via one of two paths. Some like Lorraine Unalp of Alamo started by driving her mother who liked to play Bingo and bridge to the meetings, and then found herself enjoying the group. Others were encouraged to join by existing members after experiencing the loss of a spouse and feelings of isolation. Virginia Cowart, who offers her age of 87 without hesitation, has been a member for four years. “It was my friend, Fran Britt, who made me realize I had to get out of my rut and get active again.” Britt, at 92 years of age, is 16-year member and former club president. Both women have written books: Cowart’s on Pearl Harbor (she was a high school student in Hawaii at the time of the attack) and Britt has authored an autobiography, “The Return of the Sparrow”. She was born in San Francisco and bilingual in Cantonese and English. Her Chinese name translates to “sparrow”. Britt’s granddaughter had the book published as a 90th birthday gift.

However, other seniors, no tab ly Jon and Pau la Scott of Danville, found the organization on the Internet and have been attending for a year. They enjoy Mah-Jongg; often there are three tables going. Jon, whose career was in math and computer

Playing Games Benefi ts Your HealthBy Joan Trezek science, points out that Mah-

Jongg, which is played with tiles, involves a lot of pattern matching. “Seeing patterns and matching them utilizes some of the same skills I used in my work life.” It is one of the games the Scotts

learned as club members. They like the brain stimulation it offers. Another tile game

that challenges members’ gray cells is RummiKub which began gaining popularity in the in the late 70s.

Ted Kai, a South African transplant by way of Germany, is one of several members who serve as callers for Bingo. “I

like the prestige of being a caller. Plus, callers get fi rst pick of the goodies. The goodies Kai refers to are the baked goods—breads, cakes, and various sweets that a r e d o n a t e d by local stores such as Lunardi’s, Trader Joe’s, A Sweet Affair Bake Shop , and Safeway. Severa l tables, laden with goodies, allow every

member to go home with a treat.

Fellowship, fl exing the brain, and four hours of fun. That’s a lot of benefi t for $15 in annual dues.

Frances Britt (left) and Virginia Cowart, both of Danville stay young at heart with club activities.

Marti Perry of Danville, a frequent winner at Bingo, manages six cards.

www.ValleySentinel.com

The Valley SenTinel november 2011 valleysentinel.comcan reduce the risk by as much as 63 percent. These activities stimulate brain cells, electrical connections, and keep neural pathways open.

Not all games or mental activities offer equal appeal. For instance, Scrabble players may give a thumb down to Sudoku, yet Bingo seems to be a universal favorite. It cer-tainly appears that way at the Danville Senior Citizens Club (see article on page 7) where a number of enthusiasts play six cards simultaneously. Bingo offers interaction with others, while offering the opportunity for hand-to-eye coordination, concentration, and focus on listening skills. Just another game? Think of Bingo as food for your brain.

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Never too late for Brain Work-outsBy Joan Trezek

Lots of evidence exists about the importance of physical exercise to keep the body functioning well. But brain work-outs are equally important, say researchers.

Stay involved with other people; stay engaged with ideas, words, and numbers - activities that keep brain cells healthy and less prone to disease or damage.

Many people think that at

some point in life, brain cells no longer develop. That’s not true: brain cells develop and grow, even though there may be physical slowdown until death occurs. A 2009 CBS news report by medical correspondent, Emily Senay, MD, re i t e ra ted what i s documented often in medical l i t e ra tu re ; name ly tha t mentally stimulating activities reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s and help maintain cognitive abilities. Activities such as crossword puzzles, board games and cards, playing a musical instrument, reading and writing for pleasure, and dancing as little as once a week reduce the risk of dementia by seven percent; more frequent participation

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For active seniors there’s nothing like the San Ramon Community Center. An amber digital sign that can be seen f rom Alcosta Boulevard beckons you from the front garden with its schedule of events for the week. Once you enter the center, the first thing you see is a flat screen sign in bright purple and gold that gives a running schedule of the week’s activities–and they have plenty going on. I visited a line dancing class that was being held in one of the rec rooms with a catchy country beat. The informative reception area has a table full of flyers for different activities, a stack of the senior newsletter “Encore”, comfy couches and a tray of snacks by the coffee pot. The brightly lit room was full of sunlight streaming in from the well-designed lobby area. Nature abounded with

San Ramon Senior Center a havenBy Judy Delany wild turkeys strutting around

in the back garden.A quick rundown of things

to do in one week includes zumba, line dancing, balancing classes, Bingo on Tuesday nights, knitting and quilting, regularly scheduled field trips, and singing practice with the wonderful Silvertones, a group that meets on Thursday afternoons. Karaoke takes place on Friday afternoons from 1 – 4pm and the room is packed.

If you’re looking to go out on a scheduled excursion, need transportation to an appointment, or just need a ride to and from the center, vans are available for sign up in the lobby. They can always use more drivers. If you’re interested, contact Bonnie Mertz, 925.973.3222 at the center.

If during the active day you spend at the center you get hunger pangs, lunch is available. For $2.00 you receive a tasty and

nutritious meal. You need to sign up ahead of time. The menu can be found at the reception desk.

Across from the reception area is a display window full of beautiful baby clothes, quilts and aprons. Seniors have a knitting get-together that meets once a week. Baby blue sweaters, pink hats, rainbow crocheted blan-kets, and finely stitched elegant quilts will be for sale November 15 at the Annual Holiday Bou-tique Fair which takes place at the center from 9am to 5pm. The fair will also feature outside vendors for the first time, sell-ing jewelry along with arts and crafts. The proceeds will go to the foundation that helps run the Center along with the San Ramon Parks and Community Services department.

After spending some time at the center nearly every day for a week, I found it cheerful, helpful and fun, a great place to spend time in your golden years. For a digital version of the newsletter, Encore, go to: www.sanramon.ca.gov/parks/programs/ages55+htm.

Thomas Huang singing Karaoke

Sunrise Resident Celebrates her 106th Birthday

Clara Beaton, celebrated her 106th birthday on August 30, 2011. Clara is originally from North Dakota. She moved to San Jose, CA 70 years ago and moved to Sunrise of Danville in early 2010 to be near her daughter and son-in-law, Iris and Jim Johnson. Clara enjoys needlepoint, gardening, music, and knitting. Clara has knitted over 2000 caps for orphan children in Balkan countries. She celebrated her birthday with friends, family, a live Polka band, appetizers, refreshments, and cake at Sunrise.

The Silvertones at practice at the San Ramon Senior Center


ValleySentinel.comFor More Local Calendar Events

Senior Calendar

Danville SeniorsSneaker Trips: All trips meet at the Danville Park & Ride lot unless other-wise noted in the trip details. Reserve your spot at the Danville Community Center, 420 Front Street, on or before the registration date begin-ning at 8:30am. Information: 314-3400.

November 10 Conservatory of Flowers and Rainforest Café, San Francisco 9:45am-4:30pm. A spectacu-lar living museum of rare and beautiful tropical plants under glass. 1,750 species of plants represent unusual flora from more than 50 countries around the world. Enjoy lunch at the Rainforest Café. Cost: $41 resident; $49 non-resident. Price includes: transportation, lunch and admission.

November 12White Kitty Foundation Hosts Senior Pet Adop-tionsJoin pet lovers from around the community on at Apollo Vet. Hospital, located at 1411 Treat Blvd. in Walnut Creek for a cat and dog adoption event! The event will be held from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm. We are celebrating our senior dogs and cats that need lov-ing forever homes. There will be dogs and cats of various ages, but we are focusing on debuting senior pets.For more information or to make a donation, contact Cris Tarozzi at (925) 837-2411 or email [email protected], or visit: www.whitekittyfoun-dation.org and Facebook by adding the page “White Kitty Foundation”.

November 15 Red Hawk Casino in Placer-ville 8:30am-5:30pm. Try your luck at the slots and tables for the day and receive a voucher for free game play. Cost: $16 resident; $19 non-resident. Price includes: transportation. Please bring money for lunch on your own.

November 30 Almonds, Chocolate and Olive Oil, Oh MY! 8:15-6pm. Holiday shop-ping and lunch at a restaurant in Modesto. We will taste the award winning artisan crafted olive oil, have lunch at Surla’s and then visit the Blue Diamond Nuts and Gift Shop. Cost: $49 resident; $59 nonresident. Price includes: transportation and lunch. Please bring money if you wish to purchase souvenirs

Buzz Sessions: Get the buzz on topics and issues facing today’s older adults and talk with the ex-perts. Buzz Sessions are always free! Information: 314-3400.

November 8 Estate Planning–Do you know what is essential? 11:30am-12:30pm. With the passage of the Tax Relief Act in December 2010, there are significant changes to the estate tax laws. The new tax law, with a higher estate tax exemption, allows personal wishes to be a more signifi-cant factor in the decision making process. Learn what the new law means, what are the essential estate planning documents, and why each one serves a vital purpose. Town Meeting Hall, 201 Front Street, Danville.

November 15 Saving Mount Diablo 12-1pm. Save Mount Dia-blo preserves natural lands through acquisition & co-operative efforts; defends Mount Diablo and its foothills from development threats through land use planning and public education; restores habitat, wildlife and creeks and builds trails so you and future generations can enjoy Diablo’s parks and its wildlife. Town Meeting Hall, 201 Front Street, Danville.

November 29 Reverse Mortgages: Sepa-rating Fact from Fiction! 10-11am. Guest speaker edu-cates seniors about financial options in their future with power point presentation on the Do’s and Don’ts of Re-verse Mortgages and explains where they can and can’t work. Plenty of time for ques-tions. Town Meeting Hall, 201 Front Street, Danville.

San Ramon SeniorsThe following events are held at the Alcosta Senior & Community Center9300 Alcosta Blvd., San Ra-mon. Information: 973-3250

Holiday Wish Tree Project Looking for a way to give back to your community this holiday season? A holiday tree will be decorated with wish tags beginning the week of Thanksgiving. Each tag will list a child’s name, code and one or more gift wishes. Wish Tree gifts may be returned wrapped or unwrapped to the Senior Center, tag attached. Monetary donations are also accepted and checks should

be made out to the San Ra-mon Senior Foundation. The deadline for returning gifts is Monday, December 14.

Wisdom Wednesdays: Free Workshops geared towards informational sessions that benefit your needs. They will give you free access to cof-fee, knowledge and a better understanding of important issues. All workshops held at the Alcosta Senior & Com-munity Center, 9300 Alcosta Blvd., San Ramon. Informa-tion: 973-3250.

November 9 Understanding Stroke and Stroke Prevention 10:30-12pm. Learn about what a stroke is, the types of stroke, signs & symptoms of a stroke, stroke statistics, risk factors, stroke prevention and much more!

November 13 Senior Breakfast 9-11:30am. Enjoy a delicious and inexpensive breakfast which includes pancakes, scrambled eggs, fresh fruit and sausage. No reservations required. All proceeds help support senior center pro-grams. $4 Adults/$2 Children 12 and under .

November 15 Annual Holiday Boutique Fair 9am-7pm. Handcrafted items including holiday décor, jew-elry, baby items and much more from the Senior Center Boutique as well as many community craft vendors. Free.

November 24 Community Family Thanks-giving Dinner 5-7pm. Feast on tradition-al Thanksgiving fare. The whole family is invited to enjoy football, friends and a warm community atmosphere. $10(R)/12(N)/$8 Children under 12. Pre-registration re-quired by Nov. 18. To register call: 973-3250.

November 30 Keeping Bodies Fit as We Age 10:30-12pm. An expert from Home Care Assistance will discuss how a healthy diet matched with a variety of stretching, strength-building and aerobic activities can improve quality of life.

Trips :Trip Desk is open Tuesday & Thursday, 10am-1pm. at the Alcosta Senior & Com-munity Center, 9300 Alcosta

Blvd., San Ramon. Infor-mation: 973-3250. Sign up for Casino Trips and Van Trips at the travel desk or by depositing payment with registration form in the gold drop box found at the main entryway.

Monday Lunch Trips - Taste of the Tri-Valley Explore local restaurants with others from the Senior Cen-ter. Larry Rossi will pick up San Ramon Residents from their homes at approximately 11:00am. Non-Residents will have to find their own way to the Senior Center to be picked up there at 10:30am. Each lunch trip will be approxi-mately 2 ½ hours. The fee pays for the transportation, all

participants will be required to pay for their own meal. $5 (R)/$6 (N).

November 9 Lunch/Brunch Trip Enjoy lunch at Francesco’s Restaurant and visit the San Leandro Outlets. Call for meet-ing time: 973-3250.

November 14 Black Oak CasinoTuolumne. $22 per person.

November 19 Ironstone Winery & Murphy’s. Call for meeting time and more information: 973-3250.

November 30 San Francisco Union Square Call for meeting time and more information: 973-3250.

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Holiday GiftsI t ’ s t h e d a y a f t e r

Thanksgiving and you’re at the mall stressing out about finding the perfect gift for your best friend. But this year you can’t find anything affordable that you think your friend would like. So this year you decide to make your own gifts.

Many people feel stressed out about buying and giving gifts around the holidays, even before the current economic crisis. Some people think the holidays are too materialistic and more about the gifts than the feelings behind them. Not all people think the holidays are too materialistic, of course. Most appreciate the traditional aspects of the holidays, like getting together and celebrating with friends and family. And some love shopping and are just fine with all the giving and receiving.

The Tradition of Holiday Gifts

Why do people give gifts in the first place? Throughout the world, many cultures mark special holidays with gifts and food. Holiday traditions bring people together and allow us to feel a part of family and community. The gifts and food that we share are all about expressing a sense of gratitude, joy, and abundance.

But if you’re feeling a little hollow about the holidays, what can you do? One way to take back the holiday spirit is to focus on traditions and service — and on putting real meaning into your giving.

Serving OthersFor lots of people, the

holidays are about helping the less fortunate. Rather than buying presents for each other, a group of friends goes to their local homeless shelter and gives the homeless a day to

Holiday Gift GivingBy Veneta Roberts

remember, distributing jackets, boots, gloves, and hats. For this group, working together to help the homeless makes their bonds stronger. They feel like a part of each other’s lives in a meaningful way. It may sound trite until you try it, but doing something for charity can really help you feel better about the whole experience of giving. That’s because it benefits the giver as well as the recipient: You can be left with a feeling of belonging and being connected.

C h o o s e t o h e l p a n organization or group that fits with your values and the things you believe in. If you love children, buy a present for a child in need. If animals are your thing, talk to your local animal shelter — many shelters distribute staples like pet food to low-income pet owners over the holidays and need volunteers to help. If you miss a grandparent and would

like to spend time with the elderly, help out at a nursing home over the holidays. Or share a special skill. If you’re good with your hands, you can help build or refurbish housing for people in need.

G i f t s I d e a s W i t h Meaning

Christmas Adventure. I personally like to do a Christmas Adventure. I started this several years ago with my Grandchildren. Instead of presents I plan a trip or adventure that we will all do together in the new year. I make a book with clues as to where we are going and what we will be doing. The entire family gets involved in guessing the vacation from the clues. Near the end of the book they write down their guesses and at the very end find out how close they were when the vacation is divulged. It doesn’t need to be a full-blown vacation. It might just be an

adventure. One year we all did simulated Sky Diving.

Beading. Making your own Jewelry has become a real art with many bead stores and craft stores carrying expensive and inexpensive beads. If you don’t feel creative enough to venture making a necklace or bracelet on your own, many bead and craft stores offer classes for the beginner to the experienced.

Make individual photo albums for your friends. I know this takes a lot of time, but I do it because I love to sit with my friends and watch them smiling and laughing over the fun times we’ve had together.

Unique Gift Ideas. Just do a search for Unique Gifts and several sites will come up with great ideas. One such site is San Francisco Gifts at Xperience Days. Here you can order gift certificates for cooking classes,

See Gift Giving page 11

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Gift Giving from page 10

Start your celebration of the holidays with the opening of Christmas Memories at the Museum of the San Ramon Valley on Tuesday, November 15. This exhibit runs through December 31. Christmas Memories is an annual tradition at the Museum and captures Christmas’ past with a display of a Christmas tree as it would have looked in the 1890’s.

Christmas Memories at the Museum of the San Ramon Valley

Nestled under the tree and in a Santa’s Workshop are toys and keepsakes from earlier generations, along with the Museum’s special model train. There will also be a beautiful outdoor tree with carolers.

Activities include matching a picture with a Christmas carol. There will also be a treasure hunt to match a popular toy, one that “everyone” had to have

or give, with the year or era it was introduced. Santa will be at the Museum on the Saturdays leading up to Christmas. Many other nostalgic items on display are on loan from local Valley residents and include a Winnie the Pooh collection, doll houses, and different Christmas village scenes, like the one pictured above right.

Make Christmas Memories one of your family’s annual traditions. The Museum of the San Ramon Valley (in the restored Danville Train Depot) is located at 205 Railroad Avenue, Danville. Hours are Tuesday through Friday 1-4. Saturdays the Museum is open 10-1. Admission is $3 for guests, free for Museum members. The Museum Store offers unique gifts, including Vintage Danville, a book chronicling the history of the San Ramon Valley for over 150 years. Please call 925-837-3750 or go to www.museumsrv.org for additional information.

Christmas gifts – Gifts.com will let you design and create your own converse sneakers.

Get creative. Design your own holiday cards, decorate your home, or bake something delicious to share (baked goods

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See Gift Giving page 14

November • November • November • November • November • November

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Please email or fax your Calendar Events to the Sentinel by 5pm on the 15th of the month proceeding publication month. Fax No. 925-820-6048,[email protected] or go to valleysentinel.com to enter your event online.

Inclusion in the calendar pages is at the sole discretion of Sentinel Newspapers, Inc.

For additional Community Events visit:www.ValleySentinel.comIf your event is not listed... Please do so by clicking on CALENDAR and Post an Event

We hope to see you there!

ANNOUNCEMENTS

November 8 Abraham Verghese 7:30pm. Verghese is Professor for the Theory & Practice of Medicine at Stanford, a renowned physician, teacher and bestselling author of “Cutting for Stone.” He is widely regarded as having infl uenced the way modern medical students think about what it means to be a doctor and the importance of the doctor-patient relationship. $14-$30. Bankhead Theater, 2400 First St., Livermore. Information: 373-6800.

November 10 – December 15 Surfaces Fiber in its most inspirational form. View amazing con-temporary interpretations of this age-old practice and see how the materials transform into fi ne art. Enjoy light refreshments, meet the artists and support the arts for a special holiday closing reception on December 15 from 4-7pm., complete with light refreshments and small fi ber art gift items available for sale. Village Theatre Art Gallery, 233 Front St., Danville. Information and gallery hours: 314-3400.

November 11Veterans Day Community Event11am. The program will consist of music, videos, slide shows, patriotic speeches and ceremonies. In recognition of the recent 10th anniversary of 9-11 the theme for this year’s event is: “A Special Tribute To Today’s Warriors” and there will be a PowerPoint slide show of local area personnel who have served since 9-11-2001 from 10:30-11:00, just prior to the start of the formal ceremonies. This event is open to the public at no charge and doors will open at 10am. Performing Art Center, San Ramon Valley High School, 501 Danville Blvd. Information: Raymond F. LaRochelle, [email protected].

November 12Fall Trail Mixer - Round Valley Regional Preserve, Brentwood9am. Same Trail Mixer program, just different and out-of-the-area trails. We’ll stay in the East Bay but we’ll explore trails in regional parks together. Meet in the Danville Com-munity Center parking lot at 420 Front Street at 9am and caravan to each location. Plan on being gone until the mid to late afternoon. FREE! Pre-registration is required; to register for this Trail Mixer visit danvillerecguide.com and search for barcode 23595. For more information please contact Sheena Wellman-Miner at [email protected].

November 12Blackhawk Auto Museum Saturday Morning Lecture SeriesTed Simon is a British journalist who is perhaps most fa-mous for circumnavigating the world twice by motorcycle, and chronicling the journeys in three different books and a documentary. The fi rst journey was undertaken in 1973. It took four years for Simon to travel over 64,000 miles, across 45 countries on his 500 cc Triumph Tiger 100. 2001 saw the journey begin anew, and the now 70 year old Ted Simon followed a similar route of 25 years before on a BMW R80GS. His life has been an inspiration to many, and he has a wealth of stories to share. The lecture is free with admission and is free to members of the Museum. 3700 Blackhawk Plaza Circle, Danville. Information: 736-2277 or www.blackhawkmuseum.org.

November 12 & 13 Goodguys Autumn Get-Together Sat: 8am-5pm, Sun: 8am-4pm. Car Show featuring over 3,000 All American made & powered hot rods, customs, classics, muscle cars and trick trucks with 100’s of vendor & exhibitor booths. Visit the swap meet for automotive re-lated parts and cars for sale. General admission: $17, Kids (7-12): $6, Kids 6 & under are free. Parking: $8. Alameda County Fairgrounds, 4501 Pleasanton Ave., Pleasanton. Information: 426-7600.

November 14 Laura Bush Part of the Lesher Speaker Series. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. For more information or tickets call: 943-7469.

November 16 Contemporary Fiber Art Practices 7-9pm. An engaging evening of an in-depth look at the creative journey of three regional fi ber artists. Meet three of the featured artists from the exhibit “Surfaces.” Evening will include slide presentations, sample work, brief demos, Q&A time and light refreshments. Free, but registration is required. Register at www.danvil-lerecguide.com and search barcode 24543. Village Theatre Art Gallery, 233 Front St., Danville. Information: 314-3400.

November 18 Zappo the Magician 10am. Enjoy Bay Area favorite Zappo the Magician, who has won numerous awards around the country. He brings his disappearing dots and reappearing rabbits to the Village Theatre, 233 Front St., Danville. Information: 820-1278.

November 18Friday Night Out7-9pm. Middle Schoolers need a night out, too! Friends, games, food, and good times. Each Friday Night Out has a different activity and its own brand of fun. Bring your friends, or make some new ones. Release forms available for download in the teens section of the Town website: www.danville.ca.gov (search: Middle School). $10.00 includes pizza and drinks. Diablo Vista Middle School Community Gymnasium, 4100 Camino Tassajara, Dan-ville. Information: visit www.danville.ca.gov/recreation/teens or contact Hans Hormann, [email protected], 314-3400.

November 19Blackhawk Auto Museum Saturday Morning Lecture Series10am. Howden Ganley, now a Danville resident was a Formula One racer from 1971-1974. Originally from New Zealand, Howden left for the UK when he was 19 to become a mechanic and pursue racing. Admission to the Museum will give you admission to the lecture and Museum members are free. 3700 Blackhawk Plaza Circle, Danville. For more information call 736-2277 or visit www.blackhawkmuseum.org.

November 19 & 20 Country Folk Art Sat: 10am - 5pm, Sun: 10am - 4pm. Thousands of hand-made items, creative decorating accents and gift items. Admission: $7, your hand stamp re-admits you both days. Parking: $8. Alameda County Fairgrounds, 4501 Pleasan-ton Ave., Pleasanton. Information: 426-7600.

November 24 Community Family Thanksgiving 5-7pm. Come alone or bring the whole family to feast on homemade Thanksgiving fare in a warm community atmosphere. Pre-registration is required by November 18. Alcosta Senior and Community Center, 9300 Alcosta Blvd., San Ramon. Information: 973-3250.

November 25 35th Annual Lighting of the Old Oak Tree5:15-8:30pm. Gather around the Old Oak Tree on Diablo Rd. for holiday refreshments, a sing-along with the San Ramon Valley High School Chorus and the ceremonial lighting of the tree by Father Christmas and the Snow Angel. After the tree lighting follow Fa-ther Christmas and the Snow Angel in a parade down Prospect and Hartz Avenues. Enjoy downtown Danville with holiday music, entertainment and refreshments. Diablo Rd., Danville.

November 30Book Discussion Group for Kids4-5pm. Kids in grades 3, 4 and 5 will talk about books, participate in a game or craft and then have a snack. Selected books explore different genres in juvenile fi ction. Registration is required–space is limited. For more informa-tion and to register visit the Danville Library at 400 Front Street or call 837-4889.

December 3 Holiday Festivities including Trim-a-Tree11:15am: Family Storytime followed by a holiday sing-a-long.1:00-3:00pm: Trim-a-Tree. San Ramon Library..December 3 Bah Humbug! 5K Run/Walk 9am. A healthy fun run or walk through San Ramon. Participants will receive a holiday long sleeved t-shirt and plenty of goodies provided by local sponsors. Medals will be awarded for the top fi nishers in each age category. Register online at www.SanRamonRecGuide.com.

December 3 & 10 Holidays on the Farm10am-2pm. Special holiday entertainment, Victorian ornament making, tractor rides, and a visit with Victorian Santa. Free. Forest Home Farms Historic Park, 19953 San Ramon Valley Blvd., San Ramon. Information: 973-3284.

SENIORS - See Senior Special Section page 9

BUSINESS

Alamo Chamber of Commerce EventsNovember 16: November Mixer, 5:30-7:30pm. Alamo Chamber Offi ce, 120B Alamo Plaza, Alamo. $5 for mem-bers, $10 for soon-to-be members.

Danville Chamber of Commerce EventsNovember 10: Business After Hours Mixer, 5:30pm. Call 837-4400 for location. November 25: Lighting of the Old Oak Tree, 5:15pm. Diablo Rd. at the Oak Tree, Danville.

San Ramon Chamber of Commerce EventsNovember 17: Third Thursday Mixer – 5:30-7:30pm. Wells Fargo Bank, 11020 Bollinger Canyon Rd., San Ramon.

valleysentinel.com november 2011 The Valley SenTinel page 13 CLUBS

November 10 Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, Post 75, San Ramon Valley 7pm. Meets every second Thursday of the month. Doors open at 7:00 PM, meeting begins at 7:30 PM. Meeting held at the Swain House, Hap Magee Ranch Park, 1025 La Gonda Way, Danville. For more information: 875-1747. Find out more about our Post on the Internet at http://vfwpost75.org.

November 12 California Writers Club, Mt. Diablo Branch 9am-12:15pm. Guest speaker: Best-selling author Jessica Barksdale Inclan. Topic: “Who’s Telling the Story?” Learn to work with one story told by three different characters, and how to use tenses to play with time. Buffet luncheon. $35 for CWC members, $40 for guests. Register by Nov. 9. Zio Fraedo’s Restaurant, 611 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill. Information & reservations: 376-3631.

November 18 The Montelindo Garden Club 10:30am. Guest speaker: Ria Sim, founder of Twigs Studio and owner of Ria Sim Designs in Danville will speak on planning events that coordinate fl oral decorations down to the last leaf giving focused attention to each project from food, table linens and to party favors. Free. Orinda Community Church, 10 Irwin Way, Orinda.

MondaysDanville Rotary12:15-1:30pm. Meets every Monday. Faz Restaurant, Danville Information: Call Victor at 838-8721.

TuesdaysDanville/Sycamore Valley Rotary7am. Join us at the Crow Canyon Country Club every Tuesday morning for a good breakfast and great company. Information: Call Scott Sampson at 743-8449.

WednesdaysAlamo RotaryNoon. Meets every Wednesday at Round Hill Country Club, Alamo. Informa-tion: Call Mark Kahn at 837-3262.

ThursdaysRotary Club of San Ramon12:15-1:30pm. Meets every Thursday at the Crow Canyon Country Club, San Ramon. Information: Call Bill Nethercott at 337-3311.

Exchange Club of the San Ramon Valley2nd Wednesdays lunch at FAZ. 600 Hartz, Danville. Information: (925) 275-2412 or [email protected].

San Ramon Valley Rotary Club7pm. Guests welcome. Join us at the Crow Canyon Country Club every Wednesday for dinner. This is a great way to make new friends. Information: 365-1435.

Blue Star Moms7-9pm. Chapter 101 meets every second Wednesday of the month at Hap Magee Ranch Park Swain House at 1025 La Gonda Way, Danville.

Kiwanis of San RamonNoon. Meets every Thursday at Round Hill Country Club, 3169 Round Hill Rd., Alamo. Information: 648-4800.

Classifieds FOR SALE

’94 Electra Glide Custom Black on Black. 21” front wheel. Thunder header, etc. $8500.00.Contact Marc 925-639-4474.

2011 Entertainment Coupon Books for Greater East Bay Area available NOW! Only $30 each. Support California High School Choral Boosters. Call Cam Reed at 925-829-0628. Free delivery San Ramon/Danville/Alamo/Dublin area.

Beautiful Minolta Digital Camera hardly used, in box. Must see, one year old. Paid $550, will sell for $200. Call (925) 735-3895.

JVC Movie Camera, digital, almost new. Paid over $600, will sell for $250. Call (925) 735-3895.

BUILDING MATERIALS

Steel Buildings Reduced Factory Inventory30x36–Reg $12,300 Now $9,970.36x58–Reg $20,300 Now $16,930.48x96–Reg $42,400 Now $36,200.81x130–Reg $104,800 Now $89,940.Source # 0EN.Call (530) 884-1920.

SERVICES

(K-12) Tutoring by California State Certifi cated TeacherReasonable rates, fl exible tutoring schedule to meet the student’s needs. Contact information: [email protected] or (925) 339-8943.

Pool Service–If your pool looks like a pond, call John at 925-584-6333. It’s the last pool maintenance call you will have to make.

REAL ESTATE

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Call Chris at 925-890-4482.

FINANCE

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HELP WANTED

Sales Executive: The Valley S e n t i n e l N e w s p a p e r h a s immediate openings for two sales positions. No sales experience necessary, we will train. Must have an outgoing personality and a positive attitude. Compensation based on performance. The Valley Sentinel covers the most desirable areas of the Bay Area–Alamo, Danville, Blackhawk, Diablo and San Ramon. Please email your resume and request for interview to us at [email protected].

Senior IT EIM Teradata DB Administrator: Bach. in Eng., C.S., C.E., or rltd. & 5 yrs. exp. & exp. with bldg. production data warehouses for banks; Teradata Admin. in bus. requirements analys is; and Informat ica. Resume to: H.R. @ Bank of the West, 2527 Camino Ramon, San Ramon, CA 94583 or go to www.bankofthewest.com/about-us/careers/job-search.html.

Danville • Blackhawk • Alamo Diablo • San Ramon

www.valleysentinel.com

390 Diablo Road, Suite 145Danville, CA 94526925-820-6047

Community News & InformationPublisher/Editor – Denise Rousset Chief Financial Offi cer – Jeff GummereGraphic Designer – Laurie PrindleWriter, Auto – David & Judy ColmanIntern – Stephanie Steinbrecher

Diablo • San Ramon

Community News & Information


I always like walks in November, and the East Bay Regional Parks District offers access to so many beautiful places and convenient times to meet if you want to join other walkers.

Walking is good for your health, and a great way to prepare for the holidays. If you establish a regular walking habit, it can help you burn those holiday calories. A recent Harvard study shows that walking at a moderate pace (3 mph) for up to 3 hours a week—or 30 minutes a day--can cut the risk of heart disease in women by as much as 40%. This is the same benefit you would get from aerobics, jogging, or other vigorous exercise. The benefits to men are comparable.

If you’re middle-aged or older and have not been physically active, check with your doctor before beginning a vigorous exercise program. As

Take a nice November walkBy Beverly Lane, East Bay Regional Park District Board President

a pedestrian, remember: • Keeptotherightwhen

approached by others.• A lways y i e l d t o

equestrians.• Look behind and to

both sides before changing course.

You could explore some of the unique habitats of the East Bay with a friendly walking group on one of the Wednesday Walks, fast-paced morning hikes led by park staff. November hikes nearby are on Nov. 2 at Bishop Ranch and Nov. 23 at Diablo Foothills starting at 9:30 a.m. Call Naturalist Christina Garcia at 510-544-3282 for more information, or check the hiking page at www.ebparks.org.

Walking doesn’t have to be strenuous exercise, either. With that in mind, the Park District is developing a new brochure which features easy walks readily reached from various Regional Park staging areas. These walks are perfect for anyone looking for a level stroll to enjoy the beauty of nature. Ideal for senior citizens, wheelchair users, parents with

small children or children in strollers, look for the “easy loop trails” brochure early next year.

Each trail in the new easy-loops brochure will include the route, distance, what you will see, trail type and condition, and amenities both at the trail head and on the trail; elevation gain and maximum grade (steepness of any hills).

Whether you want a challenging hike or a relaxed stroll, you can enjoy the natural beauty surrounding our community by taking a nice November walk.

Every day the hammers are pounding and the saws are buzzing at the corner of Hartz and Prospect in downtown Danville . The renovation of the 85 year old Veterans Memorial Building of San Ramon Valley is making good progress, but more help is needed.

The Veterans Memorial Hall will be a multi-purpose facility, available to all civic, charitable and other groups in the East Bay. It will have three main meeting rooms, so that three separate events could be going on simultaneously in the building. Its use will go beyond just Veterans.

“You could have Veterans holding an awards ceremony in one room; a Rotary Club holding a luncheon in another room; and the Girls Scouts meeting in a third room,” said Danville Mayor Karen Stepper, who also serves on the Board of Directors for the Veterans Memorial Building.

Recently, the Thomas J. Long Foundation—an outgrowth of the old Long’s Drug Stores—gave $40,000.

“We feel it is important to give back to the community and the veterans who gave so much for us,” said Milton Long, trustee of Foundation. Thomas J. Long was the co-founder of Long’s Drugs.

“This is an outstanding example of a family who has been active in the community for decades, finding a way to give back and memorialize their long-standing contribution to the community,” said Mayor Stepper.

While it will be a multi-use facility available to groups all

Help Rebuild Veterans Hall this Veterans Dayby Staff Writer across the East Bay, its main

mission will still be to serve Veterans. Programs that will be available to Veterans include: California State Employment Development Department Outreach; Veterans Family Outreach Services; Vocational Rehabilitation Training and Counseling, support groups for assistance as well as current veterans issues and social interaction.

“This has really been a regional facility that has welcomed Veterans from World War I, right through to Veterans of the current conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan,” said Maj. Gen. Ronald Lowe, U.S. Army (Ret.), a Board Member. Veterans groups from the Delta on the north, to Fremont on the south, have used the facility over the years.

While the Town of Danville pledged $5 million dollars for the community center, the agreement was that the other $3 million dollars be raised privately. $1.9 million dollars of that goal still needs to be raised.

“We are looking for donations, big and small,” said David Rice, President and CEO of the Tri-Valley Community Foundation, which is assisting with the fundraising. “We are accepting donations from corporations, grants from foundations and gifts from individuals,” Rice added.

People can donate directly by contacting the Tri-Valley Community Foundation at (925) 734-9965, or by donating directly on the Hall’s website: http://srvveteranshall.org/main_donation.php.

coupons for babysitting or car washing can be big hits with parents. Your dad may be thrilled when you present him with a carefully researched and beautifully drawn family tree. Your grandmother may really welcome the gift of your time to help her learn how to use a computer. Or your little sister may really want to learn how to knit. These days, when everyone’s so stretched, a gift of time can actually be more meaningful than one that costs money.

Shop at an alternative gift fair or in your local boutiques rather than the big malls. Fairs and small local boutiques and businesses often have more unusual gifts that the big chain stores. Plus, you’ll be helping your local merchants.

Shopping can be stressful for some, but for others, it’s all about convenience. For some, spending money means saving time. My husband finds it easy buying gifts for his employees, because if he sees something that the guys will like, he can buy one for each of them. This approach doesn’t work for everyone, especially those who like creating and finding unique gifts, but it shows how everyone is different when it comes to gift giving. One key to a relaxing and meaningful holiday is finding what works best for you, both in terms of gift giving and other holiday traditions. Putting some thought into what the holidays mean to you and then focusing your energies on those aspects that leave you feeling most fulfilled can help you let go of the stress.

Gift Giving from page 11

If you mention Father Frank’s Kids to anyone at St. Isidore School they will know exactly what you mean. It is a fall tradition for students to welcome the children of Nuestros Pequenos Hermanos , Spanish for “Our Little Brothers and Sisters”, into their school and for some, into their homes for a week.

On September 29th, after a long and delayed flight from El Salvador, 18 children ages 11-18 and Deacon Jim Hoyt were greeted by 10 St. Isidore School and parish host families. This was the first plane ride, and the beginning of many firsts for these children while visiting the Bay Area for one week.

Despite their lack of sleep, the children arrived at school in the morning and stepped in for the choir where their beautiful voices were a lasting gift to the packed church. In return, the

St. Isidore School continues outreach to orphansby Sharon Leone

St. Isidore students said the mass prayers in Spanish and provided lunch and a day full of intercultural activities and exchange for their guests.

After mass the visiting students dressed into traditional festive attire and performed dances for the students and staff.

After a very busy week in Danville for Father Frank’s Kids and the host families they gathered once more at St. Isidore’s to say their goodbyes. All families agreed that it was an experience of a lifetime with so many cherished memories.

When 8th grader, Anthony was asked about the experience of having the NPH kids around he quickly said they are so polite and kind, and they smile all the time. He also added, “they are so thankful for what they have, yet we have so much but are not as nearly thankful. I think we can learn a lot from them.”

Friends of the Orphans was introduced in 2007 to St. Isidore’s by retired priest Father Frank Colacicco. Father Frank said that he visited the orphanages and was so moved by what he saw that upon returning to Danville he involved the school and parish in supporting the Friends of the Orphans organization. Currently there are 3700 children living in orphanages in eight Latin American countries

Carolyn poses with Carmen and Lisseth who are from El Salvador

The Rochas with their visitors

Anthony poses with visitors from Nuestros Pequenos Hermanos Carmen and Lisseth

and Haiti. St. Isidore School and parish community offers support through the annual Father Frank’s Fiesta dinner and auction, by sponsoring a child and by making annual shipments of donated clothing, school supplies, bicycles, and medical supplies to Nuestros Pequenos Hermanos network of orphanages. If you are interested in getting involved in Father Frank’s Kids please call the parish office at 837-2122.

The Valley SenTinel november 2011 valleysentinel.com AUTO

maintenance • new cars • used cars • after market • safetyMarch 2009


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Back in the Eighties, my dad, who lived in snow-bound Bo s t on , n e eded s o m e t h i n g b e s i d e s h i s Mercedes SL to drive during the relentless winter months. He ended up selecting a Nissan Pulsar, bought from a dealer who wryly observed that “Everybody needs a dinghy.” Basically, the 2012 Versa is today’s version of the Nissan dinghy. Like the Pulsar, the Versa is small, unprepossessing, and noisy at full chat, but eminently practical. You wouldn’t choose it as your only vehicle, but rather as a useful addendum to a well-stocked garage.

The big news for the just-revamped Versa is its increased interior space. Although wheelbase remains unchanged at 102.4 inches, the substitution of Nissan’s new global “V” platform for the previous “B” chassis means that rear legroom has increased to 37 inches. As a rear seat passenger, I immediately noticed this commodious allocation of foot space. With the front seats positioned to accommodate 6-foot adults, the rear still offers enough lounging room to make long trips comfortably tolerable. Although there are no ventilation ducts to the rear space, both windows roll completely into the doors, so you can tailor your breeze at the expense of some wind noise. Also missing from the back cabin are reading lights, clothes hooks, grab handles and a fold down armrest. Still, spaciousness trumps econocar basic.

Up front, the Versa feels more expensive than i ts $14,560 base price would seem to indicate. Cloth covered seats offer decent support. The pistol-gripped, 3-spoke steering wheel, festooned with fingertip controls for radio (left side) and cruise control (right) looks like it belongs in a much more expensive car. Because the transmission control stalk on the center tunnel is connected to a CVT gearbox, only 2 selections of forward motion are offered: Drive or Low. The CVT makes the most of the Versa’s 109hp, constantly altering engine speed to accommodate driving need.

2012 Nissan Versa SVBy David and Judy Colman

The upside of this behavior is unanticipated sprightliness in acceleration, and sterling fuel economy. We made a round trip from the Bay Area to Monterey and back on less than a single 12 gallon tank, averaging over 30 MPG.

But the Versa isn’t without vice. The downside of CVT is that you have virtually no direct control of engine speed range. The constant engine drone produced by the CVT’s torque multiplication quickly becomes annoying. The standard air conditioning unit is a tad slow to ice the cabin on blistering hot days. Due to poor counterbalance, the trunk lid, which must be opened manually via the ignition key, will whack you on the rebound if you’re not careful to open it all the way. And finally, the weenie 185/65/15 ContiContact tires look small for the Versa and fail to generate much grip in corners.

But then, you can’t expect many Chris Craft amenities in a dinghy. If solid, basic transport is all you’re after, the Versa more than fills the order. Even on a 5 hour, single day round-trip, none of the Versa’s passengers did much ergonomic-inspired complaining. The glassy, tall-roofed cabin goes a long way toward damping small car claustrophobia. The best part of the 2012 Versa is its newly enlarged rear seating area. To gain full benefit of that improvement, however, Nissan needs to add a folding center armrest , reading lights and grab handles back there. But if you’re after unembroidered transport, pared to an affordable price, the Versa represents good value.

2012 NISSAN VERSA 1.6SV

ENGINE: 1.6 liter inline 4.HORSEPOWER: 109hp.TORQUE: 107 lb.-ft.FUEL CONSUMPTION: 33

MPG COMBINED.PR ICE AS TESTED :

$15,080.PROS: Better rear legroom

than a BMW 5, 130 lbs. less curb weight than 2011 Versa.

CONS: About as exciting as driving an Autopia car at Disneyland.

Shop Locally for the holidaysfor the holidays

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Unique Art Supplies Vintage Wares Classes and Workshops Birthday Parties

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The Valley Sentinel_Nov 2011

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Transcript of The Valley Sentinel_Nov 2011