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Alamo • Danville • Blackhawk • Diablo • San Ramon

VOl 17, nO 10 October 2012 SeVenTy-FiVe CenTSalways for the community valleysentinel.com SENTINELTHE ALLEYVSPOTLIGHT

Find out what’s new in the Valley at

Activities • Businesses • Seniors • Education • Sports and more...www.valleysentinel.com

This month’s Special Sections:

pages 7-9Home & Gardenpages 10-11Health & Wellness

On August 7th, 14 year old Zachary Scherman of Alamo traveled to Nettuno, Italy on behalf of the Northern California Travel Ball Association and the USSSA to participate in the World Baseball Classic Mundial Hit 2012. Zach represented the U-15 team of the USA that had representatives from all over the country. He was the only one from Alamo. Teams in the tournament were from various parts of Italy, Spain, Slovakia, Czech Republic and China.

Alamo Teen wins in ItalyBy Staff Writer

See BASEBALLpage 5

The rainbow trout is California’s most abundant and diverse trout, occupying many of the state’s cold streams and lakes. Its dominant visual characteristic from which the name “rainbow” is derived is the light red lateral band along its sides. Except for a few inland subspecies, the distinctiveness of the varied rainbow populations has been largely diluted through widespread intermingling among the respective strains and the extensive plantings of hatchery-reared fi sh.

Johann Julius Walbaum first described the species from an individual collected in 1792 from Kamchatka. In 1836 John Richardson named an anadromous fi sh Salmo Gairdnerii from the East Bay Area.

Steelhead and Rainbow Trout make their way to Walnut CreekAnadromous adult fish

spawn in freshwater, then the young fry migrate to saltwater to mature. In 1855 Dr. H. Gibbons of the California Academy of Natural Sciences (Steinhart Aquarium) described a new trout species, Salmo iridia, based on some fi ve-inch fi sh caught in San Leandro Creek. This became the offi cial description of rainbow trout, which were assumed to live in streams. In 1855, Ayres described Salmo rivularis, a form he believed was a “distinct” species from specimens he collected in either Mt. Diablo or Walnut Creek. Recent genetics and taxonomy have shown that all these fi sh are conspecifi c (the same species), Coastal Rainbow Trout -Oncorhynchus mykiss irideus,

By James M. Hale with both resident rainbows and anadromous Steelhead. Rainbow trout and Steelhead have been transplanted and introduced worldwide to the eastern United States, New Zealand and other countries for first class sport fi sheries.

Between two and four years of age the Steelhead and the Coastal Rainbow Trout become sexually mature and spawn for the first time. In the Walnut Creek Watershed, Steelhead enter the creek and its tributaries to spawn from October through March. Unlike salmon which die after spawning, Steelhead may return in successive years to spawn. Except for the difference in the number of eggs they lay (up to 12,000 for the Steelhead versus about 1,000 for creek

-resident Coastal Rainbows), spawning is essentially the same. The female scoops out a redd or nest with her caudal fi n (tail) in the streambed of gravel with good water flow

See TROUTpage5

Over 1,000 beautiful hand blown glass pumpkins will be a feature of the upcoming 21st annual Fall Craft Festival, coming to Danville on October 20 and 21. Hosted by the Danville Area Chamber of Commerce, the festival will have something for the entire family. For more information, visit the festival website at www.mlaproductions.com..

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

page 2 The Valley SenTinel October 2012 valleysentinel.com

October 20 & 21 • 10a.m. - 5p.m. • Hartz Avenue

200 Art & Craft Displays • Glass Pumpkin Patch • Free AdmissionHalloween Parade (Saturday 10 a.m. in front of Faz Restaurant) • Safe-Trick-or-Treating

Prospect Merchant Activities • Bike Valet • First Annual Fall Crafts Festival Car Show

Hosted by the Danville Area Chamber of Commerce and the Town of DanvilleFor more information: 925.837.4400 • www.mlaproductions.com

Danville Fall Crafts Festival

Danville Fall Crafts Festival October 20 & 21 • 10a.m. - 5p.m. • Hartz Avenue

200 Art & Craft Displays

Glass Pumpkin Patch

Free Admission

Halloween Parade (Saturday 10 a.m.

in front of Faz Restaurant)

Safe-Trick-or-Treating

Prospect Merchant Activities

Bike Station

First Annual Fall Crafts Festival

Car Show

Hosted by the Danville Area Chamber of Commerce and the Town of DanvilleFor more information: 925.837.4400 • www.mlaproductions.com

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James Fortune PhotographyNow-November 9

The Town of Danville is very excited to present this new exhibit entitled James Fortune Photography: A Rock and Roll Portfolio 1967-1980 depicting legendary rock and roll icons through a photographer’s lens. The exhibit will feature limited edition photographs of famous musicians of the time. Village Theatre Art Gallery, 420 Front Street, Danville. Information: villagetheatreartgallery.com or 925-314-3400.

14th Art in the Park Fine Arts FestivalOctober 6-7

10am-5pm. Art in the Park is a wonderful annual family event where the Tri-Valley community is invited to enjoy the talents of many Bay Area artists. This is a special day of art appreciation and all participating artists donate part of their profi ts to help the art programs of the schools in the San Ramon Valley Unifi ed School District. Centra l Park, corner of

Alcosta Blvd. and Bollinger Canyon Road, San Ramon. Information: ADAS4ART.org and sanramonarts.org.

Voices of JazzOctober 12

8pm. With an expressive voice, Daria draws from a diverse pool of influences ranging from jazz, Brazilian, Afro-Cuban and R&B. A fresh and vibrant singer, Daria’s performance will feature the talented trumpeter, Dave Rocha. Adults -$20; Students & Seniors 62+ $15. San Ramon Library, 100 Montgomery St., San Ramon. Information: 925-973-2850

Trapped In A Rumor presents “Here Comes The Improv”October 12

7:30pm. TiR is an eight-person ensemble specializing in professional improvisation. Their comedy is rich, quirky and good clean fun-defi nitely PG-13. Tickets : $8/$10. Village Theatre, 420 Front Street, Danville. Information: trappedinarumor.com.

Basic Beautiful Bold Baskets Exhibit Now -November 4

On display are baskets woven by the Washoe Indians of California. These were and are some of the most accomplished basket weavers in the world. Museum of the San Ramon Valley, 205 Railroad Ave., Danville. Information: 925-837-3750 or museumsrv.org.

Looking for a great Christmas gift?Select a date - Buy Your Tickets

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February 2013Fri. Feb. 15 @ 8:00 (Opening Night Gala)

Sat. Feb. 16 @ 3:00Sat. Feb. 16 @ 8:00 (Chamber Night (925) 837-4400)

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Tickets $35.00visit www.VictoriasReelBlondes.com

or call (925) 736-2858

Village Theatre233 Front Street

Danville

The Longest Running Original Musical Comedy In The East Bay!

Now at the Village Theatre, 233 Front Street, Danville

Back to the Roots!Back to the Roots!“ B lond ie i s shocked to f i gu re ou t he r sun tan boo th i s r ea l l y “ B lond ie i s shocked to f i gu re ou t he r sun tan boo th i s r ea l l y

a t ime t rave l mach ine . Wh i l e s t udy ing genea logy , she i sa t ime t rave l mach ine . Wh i l e s t udy ing genea logy , she i st h r i l l ed to meet he r co lo r f u l and famous ances to r s ! ”t h r i l l ed to meet he r co lo r f u l and famous ances to r s ! ”

$35.00

www.VictoriasReelBlondes.comTickets by phone, call Vicki at 925-736-2858 or call 925-314-3400

This popular show sells out fast, get your tickets now!This popular show sells out fast, get your tickets now!

Every year - ALL NEW SHOW!

February 2013Fri. Feb. 15 @ 8:00 (Opening Night Gala)Sat. Feb. 16 @ 3:00 Sat. Feb. 16 @ 8:00 (Chamber Night 837-4400)Sun. Feb. 17 @ 3:00

Fri. Feb. 22 @ 8:00Sat. Feb. 23 @ 3:00 Sat. Feb. 23 @ 8:00Sun. Feb. 24 @ 3:00

March 2013Fri. March 1 @ 8:00Sat. March 2 @ 3:00 Sat. March 2 @ 8:00Sun. March 3 @ 3:00

Fri. March 8 @ 8:00Sat. March 9 @ 3:00 Sat. March 9 @ 8:00

Formerly HAIR ON STAGE

The Longest Running Original Musical Comedy In The East Bay!

March 2013Fri. March 1 @ 8:00Sat. March 2 @ 3:00Sat. March 2 @ 8:00Sun. March 3 @ 3:00Fri. March 8 @ 8:00Sat. March 9 @ 3:00Sat. March 9 @ 8:00

This popular show sells out fast. Get your tickets now!

Continued on page 3

valleysentinel.com October 2012 The Valley SenTinel page 3

Danville has an important decision to make on November 6th. We will be electing three members to our Town Council. Here’s a spotlight of one of the candidates.

Renee Morgan has lived in Danville for over 20 years. She has a 24-year-old who attended Danville Public schools and a 9-year-old currently enrolled. She is also a military daughter and has a son-in-law currently enlisted in the military, who has served 3 tours of duty in Iraq.

She is serving her 3rd term as a Schoolsite Council member which gives her a unique perspective on our children’s educational needs and requirements.

Renee has been a Danville P lanning Commiss ioner for eight years, a Heritage Resource Commissioner and sits on Historic Design Review. She has worked diligently to implement Hillside and Open Space Ordinances, Traffi c Calming and Control Guidelines, Environmental Impact Reviews, Historical P re se rva t i on , Bus ine s s Outreach, preserving and maintaining our parks, fi elds, protecting urban limit lines

anville has an important decison to make on November 6th.We will be electing three members to our Town Council and Dwe are spotlighting one of the candidates.

Renee Morgan has lived in Danville for over 20 years. She has 24 year old who attended Danville Public schools and a 9 year old currently enrolled. She is also a Military daughter and has a

son in law currently enlisted in the Military, who has served 3 tours of duty in Iraq.

She is serving her 3rd term as a Schoolsite Council member which gives her a unique perspective on our children's educational needs and requirements.

Renee is Danville Planning Commissioner, Heritage Resource Commissioner and sits on Historic Design Review. She has worked diligently to implement Hillside and Open Space Ordinances, Traffic Calming and Control Guidelines, Environmental Impact Reviews, Historical Preservation, Business Outreach, preserving and maintaining our parks, fields, protecting urban limit lines as well as provide dedicated park easements, to name a few.

It is these years of experience, education, as well as her years of community service which are a prerequisite to making decisions in the best interests of Danville .She strives to make what is good, GREAT.

When we ask Renee why she is so passionate about Danville she stated, "I truly care about our Town, the Town my family and I call Home."

"Danville is a Unique Community..and although the ten year forecast shows that we are on a course which is economically sustainable, we need to balance resources in a fiscally responsible manner to preserve Danville for future generations"

These are some of the reasons we believe the best decision for Danville is Electing Renee Morgan to the Danville Town Council.

Renee MorganDanville Town Council

November 6th, 2012November 6th, 2012

Renee MorganDanville Town Council

Advertorial

as well as require permanent open space easements, to name a few.

I t i s these years of experience, education, as well as her years of community service which are a prerequisite to making decisions in the best interests of Danville. She strives to make what is good, GREAT.

When Renee was asked why she is so passionate about Danville she stated, “I truly care about our Town, the Town my family and I call Home.”

Spotlight on experience, integrity and dedication to our town: Renee Morgan

Bring in this ad for

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“Danville is a Unique Community...and although the ten year forecast shows that we are on a course which is economically sustainable, we need to balance resources in a fi scally responsible manner to preserve Danville for future generations”

These are just some of the reasons why the best decision for Danville Residents is electing Renee Morgan to the Danville Town Council.

Remember to vote on November 6th!!

Diablo SymphonyOctober 14

2-4pm. The Concert will open the symphony’s

five-concert 50th anniversary season with their debuting new conductor Mat i lda H o f m a n , a n d g u e s t predecessor, trumpet virtuoso Joyce Johnson Hamilton. Tickets: $10 for youth, $25

for adult. Information: 925-943-7469 or lesherartscenter.org.

Incident At VichyOctober 19 -November 10 weekends

8pm. Thrown into a room with no explanation, a group of strangers grapple with their prejudices, fears and faith in their fellow man. Village Theatre, 420 Front Street, Danville. Information: danvilletheatre.com or 925-820-1278.

Halloween Middle School DanceOctober 26

7 - 9 p m . S a n Ra m o n

Community Center at Central Park, 12501 Alcosta Blvd. Tickets/information: www.SanRamon.CA.gov/parks or 925-973-3200.

Voices of JazzNovember 2

8pm. Bar i tone Jamie Davis rolls out his repertoire from Cole Porter to Stevie Wonder to Charles Mingus in this fourth and last of the 2012 “Jazz at the Library” concert series. Tickets $20; $15 for seniors and students. Tickets may be purchased by mai l o r by order ing at San Ramon Library at 100 Montgomery Street . Information: sanramonjazz.org or 925-973-2953.

‘A Patriot ic Salute and Broadway Too’ November 4

7:30pm. Tony Award winner Michael Maguire of ”Les Miz” fame appears with the Contra Costa Wind Symphony as they perform classic Broadway selections a n d a p a t r i o t i c s a l u t e showcasing the upcoming Veteran’s Day remembrances and our national election. $25 adult, $18 senior, child/youth $10. Lesher Center for the Arts, corner of Civic and Locust Streets, Walnut Creek. Tickets and information: www.lesherartscenter.org or 925-943-7463.

• ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT • continued

page 4 The Valley SenTinel October 2012 valleysentinel.com

The condition known as Sciatica is one of the most common conditions that we treat at Align Healing Center. Some of the common symptoms of Sciatica are sharp pain in the low-back and/or buttocks accompanied by numbness, tingling, and aching or burning in the back of the legs. In severe circumstances, weakness in the legs may also be seen.

The Sciatic Nerve is large and travels down the back of the leg to the foot. The nerve is buried deep within the muscles of the buttock and leg making it difficult to treat with common physical therapy methods. The Sciatic Nerve is composed of several smaller nerves and originates from the low back. It passes

Sciatic pain getting on your nerves? Exploring Class IV Laser pain relief for low back pain and sciaticaBy Dr. Niele Maimone, DC

Advertorial

under the piriformis muscle (underneath the main buttock muscles) on its way down the leg. Irritation of the Sciatic Nerve at any point along its path is commonly known as “Sciatica”.

Understanding SciaticaLet’s talk about nerves

for a moment. Nerves are the electrical wiring of the human body. They carry the signals that allow us to move, feel, digest, detoxify, respond to our environment, and so much more. Plain and simple, if the nerves do not work the body will not work. That being said, it is important to understand that unlike other tissues, the primary blood supply to nerve tissue is actually located WITHIN the nerve itself. So, if a nerve becomes

impinged or compromised, so does the blood supply to the nerve. Without proper blood supply, the nerve does not receive the energy and nutrition that are needed for the nerve to heal itself. Over time neural impingement leads to a painful chronic condition called Neuropathy. The definition of neuropathy is a disease or injury affecting nerve cells. The common symptoms of Neuropathy include sharp pain, burning, m u s c u l a r w e a k n e s s , numbness or tingling either at the si te of the nerve in jury or wherever the nerve travels. The condition known as Sciatica is a form of Neuropathy that specifically affects the Sciatic Nerve.

How can Class IV laser help my Sciatica?

For the past eleven years Align Healing Center has been offering many different modalities to reverse Sciatic Neuropathy. In 2009 we began using Class IV Laser Therapy and the results have been outstanding! Class IV Laser Therapy allows the practit ioner to stimulate healing within the nerve t issue by del ivering the necessary energy directly to the injured area. During each painless treatment laser energy increases circulation, drawing water, oxygen, and nutrients to the damaged area. Laser therapy is a photochemical process that is able to bypass the arterial “highway” that was damaged as a result of the initial injury. During Laser Therapy the infrared laser light interacts with tissues at the cellular level and metabolic activity increases within the cell, 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 and pain.

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

Did you know there are 32 major watersheds in Contra Costa County? Do you know what they are, and why they are important?

A watershed is all the land in a region from which rain collects and drains into a common creek, river, lake or bay. Watersheds are bounded by the highest elevations -the ridges of hills and mountains that direct the drainage. Many small watersheds make up larger watersheds.

In urban areas, water from both rain and urban runoff often flows into man-made flood control structures such as channels and storm drains. Water that leaves Contra Costa County drains into the Delta, Suisun and San Francisco Bays, and eventually the Pacific Ocean.

The East Bay Regional Park District spans both Contra Costa and Alameda counties, and encompasses all or part of dozens of watersheds. For example, all of Diablo Foothills Regional Park, Las Trampas Regional Wilderness and part of Briones Park include streams that flow into the Walnut Creek Watershed. San Ramon Creek’s Watershed begins in Las Trampas Wilderness with Bollinger Creek, then turns and flows north into San Ramon Creek. And the Alameda Creek Watershed, covering about 700 square miles, has its northern boundary in Contra Costa County.

Different agencies may use different designations for the various watersheds, but their management across all jurisdictions is vitally important, environmentally, recreationally and financially. The health of our watersheds directly impacts the health of the people and wildlife that live within them.

That is why many leaders from various cities, districts

Watersheds and the East Bay Regional Park DistrictBy Beverly Lane, East Bay Regional Park District Board of Directors

Saturday, October 20 from 10 a.m. to noon

Learn about the natural and cultural history along Walnut Creek with conservationist James Hale.

Short walk of ¼ mile round trip. See fish and wildlife, and learn about medicinal and edible riparian plants.

Meet at Civic Park Bridge over the creek, at the northeast corner of Broadway and Civic Drives.

Please RSVP to Walnut Creek Watershed Coordinator Mary Grimm of the Natural Resource Conservation District at 925-672-6522, Ext. 113 or Mary.Grimm@ca.nacdnet.net.

and agencies support the creation of a Walnut Creek Watershed Council, a voluntary, non-regulatory group. The council’s primary focus will be to support a healthy and sustainable Walnut Creek watershed, which encompasses more than 150 square miles. It includes portions of Walnut Creek, Concord, Lafayette, Martinez, Orinda, Pleasant Hill, San Ramon, Danville and Moraga.

Given the importance of watershed awareness, I am pleased to announce a new group, Friends of San Ramon Creek, offering a naturalist-led tour along the Creek on Saturday, October 20 from 10 a.m. to noon. Meet us and the Friends of Walnut Creek, who are co-sponsoring the walk, at Civic Park Bridge over the creek, at the northeast corner of Broadway and Civic Drives. Please RSVP to Walnut Creek Watershed Coordinator Mary Grimm of the Natural Resource Conservation District at 925-672-6522, Ext. 113 or Mary.Grimm@ca.nacdnet.net.

Local wildlife biologist and conservationist James Hale will interpret the natural and cultural history in a walk along the restored Walnut Creek in Civic Park. We will see native medicinal and edible riparian plants, signs of beaver and otters, as well as artifacts and live fish in their native habitat. This site is just downstream of the confluence with San Ramon, Tice and Las Trampas Creeks. It is a short walk of 1/4 mile round trip.

More information about all East Bay Regional Park District trails and parks is online at www.ebparks.org.

Beverly Lane is a member of the East Bay Regional Park District Board of Directors. Her ward includes Central Contra Costa County from San Ramon through Concord and Pleasant Hill through Clayton.

valleysentinel.com October 2012 The Valley SenTinel page 5

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Epic Care supports the American Cancer Society’s Choose You campaign and encourages women to make an appointment for their own annual exams. Below are the three tests every woman should schedule no matter how hectic the calendar gets.

The Choose You campaign is a great reminder for women that it’s a necessity to take care of themselves, not a luxury.

Breast CancerAccording to the American

Cancer Society (ACS), breast cancer is the most common form of cancer for women, second only to skin cancer. The organization also says mammography is the single most effective method of early detection for the disease.

This method, especially when combined with self-examinations, can identify cancer several years before physical symptoms develop.

The importance of women placing significance on their own healthBy Amanpreet Buttar, MD

By 20, women should be conducting monthly self-exams and having a clinical exam every three years. Women over 40 should schedule a yearly mammogram.

If we detect the disease early enough, women can have up to a 99 percent survival rate. That’s reason enough to schedule exams.

Cervical CancerThe ACS estimates over

12,000 women will be diagnosed with cervical cancer in 2012 alone.

Until the pap test became common practice, cervical cancer caused more deaths than any other female cancer. The pap test allows physicians to catch the disease at its earliest and most treatable stage.

Skin CancerEven just 30 minutes in

the sun this summer without sunscreen increased your risk for melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer.

The ACS recommends wearing SPF 15 every day to

prevent sunburns and skin cancer. While it is the most common form of cancer, it is also the most preventable. It is important to watch out for new or changing moles and communicate anything suspicious to a dermatologist.

Take five minutes a week before your shower to check moles, freckles and sun spots. It’s also a good idea to keep an annual appointment for an overall skin exam.

Women need to carve out time in their busy schedule for these exams. It’s very easy to say ‘I’ll just do it next year’ and postpone it. But taking an hour of your yearly calendar could make a big difference in your health.

To learn other ways to make a Choose You pledge, visit www.ChooseYou.com.

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

The USA Team won the title with a 7-0 victory with one of Zach’s two saves in the championship game against the southern Italy team 5-2 on August 12th.

Zach in the 7 games went 7-17 with a .412 batting average including 9 RBI’s. From the pitcher’s mound Zach threw in 3 games with 1 win and 2

saves. He only gave up 1 hit in the three games, and had an ERA of .000 and a WHIP of 0.86.

Zachary Scherman’s trip to Italy for this tournament was a once in a lifetime experience. Zach is currently a freshman at De La Salle High School and was recently named one of the “Select 60” of Northern California chosen by “Got Em Baseball” of Sacramento.

BASEBALLfrom page 1

TROUTfrom page 1

for oxygenation. She deposits the eggs, 2 -12 inches deep, as the male fertilizes them with milt after which she covers the eggs with loosened gravel from the upstream edge of the nest. The redd size can reach 70 square feet, however much smaller nests are more typical. Hatching occurs within 30 to 150 days depending upon stream conditions. Alevins emerge several weeks later and develop into young fry. By late spring the free -swimming fry become parr with their characteristic vertical, dark ovals on their sides. These parr marks are unique and very useful in identifying the young of most species. The new parr form small shoals in creek pools where they begin their initial growth, feeding on invertebrates as fingerlings in freshwater for up to four years, before going to sea as migrating Steelhead smolts or attaining adult size as resident Coastal Rainbows. Adult Steelhead become the legendary silvery fish with dark spotted blue -green backs, and silver sides grading to silver -white on their undersides. During the summer, some adults may have the pale red lateral stripes characteristic of rainbows. A Steelhead rarely possesses any spots below the lateral line whereas most resident rainbows do.

In California, most Steelhead will be from 20 to 25 inches and from 5 to 10 pounds. Resident rainbows are typically 1 to 2 pounds. In California, the first hatchery rearing of Steelhead was in 1887, and hatchery -derived varieties or cultigens have been introduced around the world as an aquaculture and as a sport fish species. All hatchery Steelhead have their adipose fin clipped to distinguish them from wild fish and to trace their movements. Steelhead in California are estimated to number roughly 250,000 adults, which is one half the adult population of 30 years ago. Since 1927 it has not been permissible to take Steelhead commercially. General factors influencing Steelhead population numbers during upstream migration, spawning, and incubation include barriers to passage, diversions, flow fluctuations, water temperature, and other water quality parameters, such as sedimentation of spawning

habitat. Factors affecting juvenile rearing habitat and emigration within the San Francisco estuary and its tributary streams include low summer flows combined with high water temperatures. Within the Carquinez Straits the downstream migrating Steelhead are adversely affected by altered flows, entrainment, and mortality associated with trapping, loading, and trucking fish at state and federal pumping facilities. Dredging, grazing, agriculture pesticides, herbicides, mining, exhaust and chemical emissions, timber harvest, flood control, channelization and polluted runoff also contribute to Steelhead and Coastal Rainbow Trout population declines. A statewide recovery plan has been instituted to mitigate some of these negative impacts. Steelhead are federally endangered and threatened.

James M. Hale is vice president of Friends of the Creeks and vice chair of Contra Costa County Fish and Wildlife Committee.

• Education • libraries • schools • camps • events valleysentinel.com page 6

October 2012

Yo u c a n h e l p k i d s discover and appreciate their natural environment. If you get excited investigating the beach, riding in a boat on the bay, peering under docks and rocks for animal life, or bird watching from the pier, the Berkeley Marina Volunteer Program could be for you! All you need are the desire

Volunteers needed to teach kids about the Bayand a love for kids and the out of doors.

This unique docent program, Bay Interpretive Training or BayIT- established 26 years ago, is designed to train volunteers to assist naturalists in teaching the ecology of the San Francisco Bay area to adults as well as children ages 5 years to

18 years. Environmental education programs include low tide walks, research boat and sailing programs, summer marine biology and boating programs.

Training sessions cover such topics as; Quakes, Quacks, and Conquistadors, The Bay Today, Straw Bale Buildings, How To Have Fun Teaching Children Creatively, F i n s S c a l e s and G i l l s , Feathered Friends, Seashore Secrets, Mud Glorious Mud, Bay Scientist-Me?, Animals With No Eyeballs, Waste in our Watershed?, Sailing Take Me Away!, and Working on a Boat on the Bay. Each sess ion includes hands-on exper ience and then application techniques, with indoor labs and outside spaces in each of the local estuarine environments: rocky shore, intertidal zone, dock, pier and open water.

Learn how to teach about “Green” Building. Our offi ce and visitors’ center is made out of straw bales. This environmentally sensitive building has a photovoltaic system, passive and active solar, a windmill and utilizes recycled wood products.

The volunteer training takes place in the Shorebird Park Nature Center, 160 University Ave. at the Berkeley Marina on Thursday and Friday mornings 9am-12pm, beginning on October 18th and continuing until August. Volunteers are asked for 14 hours a month commitment. There are two Saturday boat trainings.

Training is ongoing and new people are welcome a t any t ime. Fo r more informat ion and deta i l s on dates and times, visit www.cityofberkeley.info/marina. To speak to someone personally please call staff at 510-981-6720.

Our programs are unique in the central East Bay and we have taught over 122,750 children and adults in the past 33 years.

Vo lun t e e rs a re a l s o needed for our Berkeley Bay Festival in April.

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ADMISSION OPEN HOUSESFOR 2013 ENROLLMENTat the Kate & Dyke Brown Hall

Grades 6-8 November 10 & January 12

1-3:30pm • RSVP (925) 837-5375

Grades 9-12 November 11 & January 13

1-4pm • RSVP (925) 837-5375

MIDDLE SCHOOL (Grades 6-8)PARENT INFORMATION SESSIONS

at the Middle School CampusOctober 23 • November 27 • January 22

8:30-10am • RSVP (925) 362-7239

valleysentinel.com October 2012 The Valley SenTinel page 7

Home & Garden

Autumn is one of the most pleasant and practical times to inhabit the garden, and a time to remember to make your garden a place to be, a place to live. This can be one of the best times of year to be outside and enjoy your garden, with both comfortable weather, and the poetry of changing seasons.

I believe that the garden is a place: not a concept, not a view, not even a space, but A Place. A place is somewhere. Somewhere to inhabit: to do things, not just an object to look at. Californians know this better than anyone, but we could do much better. So much of our garden making still focuses on the view, the visual, but gardens can be so much more. We might have the best climate in the world in which to appreciate the garden as a place, as a central part of our lives and homes, but we all (even those of us who make gardens for a living) need to slow down and take time to live and appreciate our own outdoors.

So what can I do at this time of year to make my garden a more enjoyable place?

Plant a tree, or forty: A well-placed, well-chosen tree can be the centerpiece of the

garden, contributing more than anything to making a beautiful and enjoyable space. In the long run, it’s also one of the best things you can do for the world. This simple act can have so much positive impact on future generations and give great benefi t to the environment as well. Autumn is the best time to plant a tree in California, as the roots still have time to grow deep before it gets cold, but the stress of heat doesn’t take it’s toll. A deciduous tree (one that loses it’s leaves in fall) provides both the most entertainment value, (you get to watch the fl ow of the seasons as the tree changes colors, and fl owers) and ensures that there will be sun under your tree in winter when you need it and shade in summer when it is most needed.

Build a deck or patio. To help your garden become more a part of your home, you can work to make more inhabitable space out there. A deck or patio can help bring the family out into the garden by making it an extension of the house. This is fi ne weather to work on outdoor construction, as it’s not yet chilled and muddy, but the blazing summer sun has died down somewhat.

It’s a good idea to build your garden room now, so it will be ready for your next full year of outdoor living.

Plant some veggies and fruits. In the Bay Area, we can grow something all year for our kitchen tables. What better way to make the garden part of you home, than to grow your own food? Growing your own vegetables helps with a healthy diet, and enhances your enjoyment of both your garden and your meals, and emphasizes the passage of the seasons. Don’t hide your edible plants away. Find a way to frame them and make them a beautiful feature in the garden, as well as a productive resource. You can build a stone or wooden planter for them that will be both practical and an attractive garden feature, or mix colorful vegetables with benefi cial and visually appealing fl owers (preferably something that changes with the seasons).

So this autumn, do your best to enjoy your garden, enjoy your place.

Jonathan Espalin is a Garden Designer at Calvin Craig Landscaping. He can be reached at 530-902-2627 or jvespalin@yahoo.com. For more articles on gardening visit www.craiglandscaping.com.

The Garden is a “Place”By Jonathan Espalin

•landscape designs•landscape construction•fine gardening

creators of award-winning gardenssince 1988

call us for an call us for an introductory consultation 923-935-5269 www.CraigLandscaping.com

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Contra Costa Master Gardeners present

“Our Garden Lecture Series”Wednesdays at 10am

2640 Shadelands Dr., Walnut Creek

The Contra Costa Master Gardeners present speakers on a variety of garden related topics. In addition, there is a demonstration garden, “Ask a Master Gardener” desk and a selection of plants for purchase.

October 10 -Getting Started with ChickensOctober 17 -Winter Care of Fruit TreesOctober 24 -Our Garden End of Season Celebration

The Holidays Begin at

Elegant Clutter

Holiday Preview PartyOctober 13th & 14th

Doors Open at 10:30am

925.837.1001www.ElegantClutter.com

Elegant Clutter702 Sycamore Valley Rd. West, Danville

page 8 The Valley SenTinel October 2012 valleysentinel.com

Home & Garden

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Would you like your home to be a healthier, more sustainable place to live? You can improve your indoor environment in many ways.

Solid waste reduction and recycling–what to do with all that “stuff”

• Remember the three R’s: “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle” in that order.

• Try to purchase recycled goods in minimal packaging. Avoid disposable products.

Steps to a healthy sustainable homeBy Laurie Prindle and Roseann Chamard

• Instead of buying water bottles, use a fi ltered container to keep in the refrigerator, or a fi lter attachment for your faucet. Water bottles pollute the environment more than almost any other litter (besides plastic bags.) The water quality from your tap is often as good or even better than many bottled waters. If it doesn’t say “spring water” or “mineral water” or “well water” on the label chances are it’s just water from somebody else’s tap.

• Compost. If you would like to start composting for your garden, the Contra Costa Solid Waste Authority website at www.wastediversion.org has great information for you. They sponsor regular composting workshops and provide high quality composting bins at a reduced cost for residents in their service area. (They also have a great search tool for their database where you can fi nd the nearest recycling resources for various items. It’s everything

you ever wanted to know about recycling but didn’t know who to ask.)

• Take time to organize and recycle daily paperwork-mail, magazines and newspapers, etc. If you are receiving catalogs that you never look at, contact the catalog company and ask to be removed from their mailing list.

• Recycle your plastic bags. Most large grocery stores have collection bins for this. Better yet, bring your own bags to market.

• Simplify your life. Do you really need all that stuff?

Energy conservation-a great way to save money

• Set your thermostat to 78° for cooling and 68° for heating.

• Wash full loads in the washing machine, using cold water whenever practical. Wash full loads in the dishwasher and use the “cool dry” setting.

• Replace your incandescent lights with compact fl uorescent light bulbs (CFLs).

• Replace filters in your HVAC units on a regular basis.

• Use insulation and weather stripping to cut down on energy loss in your home. Put an insulation jacket on your water heater.

• Use motion sensor lights outdoors and in hallways.

• Plant a shade tree outside sun-exposed windows, walls and air conditioning units.

• Upgrade to solar energy! You may think the cost is high, but actually you’ll save a lot of money in the long term. Visit Go Solar California at www.gosolarcalifornia.ca.gov for information about fi nancial incentives in your area.

• Use Energy Star appliances. They can use up to 75% less energy than older appliances. Visit P.G.&E at www.pge.com/myhome/saveenergymoney for information on how to get rebates for new appliances and how to implement additional energy saving strategies or contact Energy Upgrade California at energyupgradeca.org for information on a Whole House Energy Assessment, rebates and incentives.

Water conservation-another great way to save money

Inside: • Don’t wait for your water

to get warm by letting it run down the drain. Catch the cold water by fi lling up the tea kettle or the coffee pot. Use a bucket in the shower and water your plants or fl ush your toilet with the water saved.

• If you have a pre-1994 toilet it’s probably wasting water. Newer low flow toilets use about half the water as the older ones.

• Use aerators on your faucets. Visit EBMUD at ebmud.com/environment for information, free water-saving devices and rebates on water saving appliances.

Outside:• Install a water-efficient

irrigation system.• Don’t overwater. According

to Stopwaste.org, most gardeners use about 40% more water than they really need. Group plants by their water needs. Plant thirsty

See SUSTAINABLEpage 9

valleysentinel.com October 2012 The Valley SenTinel page 9

Home & Gardenplants nearest the house, and create drier zones further away. Water early in the morning and mulch or use ground cover to protect plants and prevent evaporation.

• Lose your lawn. Replace it with drought tolerant native plants or even a vegetable garden. Visit www.stopwaste.

org for information on “Bay-friendly” gardening practices.

Pollution prevention for a cleaner more healthy environment

• Purchase non-toxic cleaning supplies. Replace several similar items with one or two that do the same job. You can do many cleaning tasks with white vinegar and baking soda. The smell dissipates quickly,

and besides, you’ll be glad to know you are not breathing poison! Visit the Environmental Working Group at www.ewg.org/healthyhometips for more information.

• Dispose of hazardous waste properly. Cleansers, insecticides, paints, batteries,

electronic devices and CFLs all contain hazardous materials. The Contra Costa County Household Hazardous Waste Program can help you fi nd out how best to dispose of these things. The Central County Facility is located at 4797 Imhoff Place, Martinez. Visit their website at www.

co.contra-costa.ca.us/depart/cd/recycle or (800) 646-1431 for information about what to do with hazardous materials.

• Take unwanted and expired medications to your local police department for

See HOME page 11

END OF SUMMER SALE

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(Expires 10/31/12. In stock only. Not valid on prior purchases or other offers. All sales final.)

2550 Camino TassajaraDanville, CA(925) 736-7600www.tassajaranursery.com

$50 off (with coupon)Any Consultation Service

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includes 15% discount towards initial purchase from the nursery-some exclusions apply-ask Matt for details. (Not valid on prior services or other offers.)

$15 off (with coupon)

Any 15 gallon Shade Tree

(Expires 10/31/12. In stock only. Not valid on prior purchases or

other offers. All sales final.)

2550 Camino TassajaraDanville, CA

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SUSTAINABLEfrom page 8

page 10 The Valley SenTinel October 2012 valleysentinel.com

Health & Wellness

California will be the first State in the country to receive new Medicaid dollars under the Affordable Care Act to provide community-based

Health care law helps strengthen Medi-Cal“Community First Choice” program helps states provide home and community-based services to enrollees with disabilities

personal attendant services and supports to beneficiaries as an alternative to nursing facility and other institutional services, according to an

announcement made today by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Acting Administrator Marilyn Tavenner.

“Thanks to the Affordable Care Act, seniors and persons with disabilities in California wil l have better options that will help them get the care they need in their own homes and communities, rather than institutions like a nursing home,” said Acting Administrator Tavenner.

T h e “ C o m m u n i t y First Choice Option” was e s t a b l i s h e d u n d e r t h e Affordable Care Act and is a new state plan option under Medicaid. It allows states to provide home and community-based attendant services to certain Medicaid enrollees who require an institutional level of care. States choosing to participate in this option receive a six percentage point increase in their federal medical assistance percentage for

expendi tures re la ted to this option. California will receive an estimated $258 million for the first year of implementation, and $315 million for the second year. The increased funding is available as long as the option is included as a benefit in the State’s Medicaid program, known as Medi-Cal.

Community First Choice ensures that each beneficiary has a person-centered plan that reflects the individual’s choices and preferences about how services and supports are provided to achieve or maintain independence.

For more information on this Community First C h o i c e o p t i o n , p l e a s e visit: www.hhs.gov/news/ press/2012pres/04/20120426a.html.

www.ValleySentinel.com

valleysentinel.com October 2012 The Valley SenTinel page 11

Health & Wellness

Primo’s Run for Education has been a tradition in the San Ramon Valley for 29 years. It is the largest fundraising activity for the San Ramon Valley Education Foundation (SRVEF), a non-profi t organization that supports and promotes education in our community in partnership with the San Ramon Valley Unifi ed School District.

SRVEF supports district-wide projects and provides monetary grants to teachers and

Run for Education at the 29th annual Primo’s event

schools within the San Ramon Valley Unifi ed School District.

This year’s race is on Sunday, October 14. The 1/2 Marathon starts at 6am at Primo’s Pizza at 298 Hartz Ave. in Danville. The 5K timed race begins at 8:15 at the Iron Horse Middle School at 12601 Alcosta Blvd., San Ramon, and the 5K Fun Run/Walk begins at 8:30am, also at the Iron Horse Middle School. For registration and information, visit www.primosrun.com.

By Staff Writer

disposal. Don’t throw them in the garbage or fl ush them down the toilet. These chemicals can harm wildlife and contaminate the water supply.

• Avoid VOCs (volatile organic compounds) when purchasing paint products, furniture, fl ooring and carpets. Visit www.epa.gov/iaq/homes/index.html for more information on indoor air quality.

Starting freshIf you are building a home or

remodelling there are lots of ways to do things more sustainably. Visit greenremodelforum.com for help with remodeling. Visit BuilditGreen at www.builditgreen.org and check their directory of Certified Green Building Professionals (CGBPs.)

There are lots of ways to become more “green.” If it seems daunting don’t let yourself become overwhelmed or discouraged. Just start somewhere and do a little at a time.

HOMEfrom page 9

Picture Yourself HEALTHY!

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October • October • October • October • October • October • October

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Please email your calendar events to the Sentinel at Info@valleysentinel.com 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.comIf your event is not listed... Please do so by clicking on CALENDAR and Post an Event

We hope to see you there!

COMMUNITY EVENTS

“Two Cities, One Tale” Danville & San Ramon Joint City Read 2012Now -November 5Read The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake and ride along in this story with other Danville and San Ramon residents. This is a fi ve-week long, book-sharing event to read a single book. To borrow copies of Aimee Bender’s National Bestselling novel or for more information please visit your local Danville or San Ramon library.

Hospice of the East Bay: Widow and Widowers’ SupportNow -November 15(No meeting on November 8, 2012)Thursdays, 1:30-3:30pm. Widows and Widowers can fi nd consolation with the Hospice’s support group. Hospice administrative offi ce, 3470 Buskirk Avenue, Pleasant Hill. Pre-registration required: 925-887-5681.

Hospice of the East Bay Offers Support: Adults Who Have Lost a ParentOctober 8 -November 26Mondays, 6-8 pm. Support group for adults who have lost a parent. Hospice administrative offi ce, 3470 Buskirk Avenue, Pleasant Hill. Pre-registration required: 925-887-5681.

General Sailing Skills, Knots, and TerminologyOctober 107pm. The non-profi t Wind ‘n Sailing Club is holding a sailing training class at a member’s home in Danville. Information: 925-837-3381.

Forest Home Farms Historic Park Resident Appreciation Day.”October 1310am-2pm. This is part of a series of “Thank You San Ramon” events the City is hosting for residents. Enjoy FREE tours of the farm and the Glass House Museum. Visit the Pumpkin Patch and other activities for the whole family. 19953 San Ramon Valley Blvd., south of Pine Valley Road in San Ramon. Information: 925-973-3284 or www.SanRamon.ca.gov.

Fall Plant Sale at The Ruth Bancroft GardenOctober 1310am-3pm. Don’t miss the fi nal sale of the year! Free admission. 1552 Bancroft Road, Walnut Creek. Information: www.ruthbancroftgarden.org or 944-9352.

Mt. Diablo Branch of the California Writers Club lunchOctober 13 12pm. Author Rick Reed, former policeman and detective presents “Put Life experiences into Your Writing.” Sign-ins from 11:30 -12pm, luncheon 12-12:45pm, program from 12:45-1:30pm. $20 for CWC members, $25 for guests. Zio Fraedo’s Restaurant, 611 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill. Reservations required, and must be received by noon on Wednesday, October 10. Contact jeaniegpops@comcast.net or 925-934-5677. Expect confi rmation only if you e-mail your reservation. Information: cwcmtdiablowriters.wordpress.com.

Teen Fine Forgiveness ProgramOctober 14 -20In celebration of Teen Read Week, Contra Costa County Library invites teens to “Start a New Chapter at the Library”. Teens in grades 6-12 have the opportunity to clear their late charges from their library card accounts by reading at their local library. Each teen must bring his or her library card or valid ID to participate. Information: ccclib.org or contact your local library.

Concord Sunday Pro JamOctober 14, November 4, and November 117-11pm. The Concord Sunday Pro Jam is creating a buzz in

the Contra Costa music community as organizer and house band bass player Timm Walker brings together special guest musicians from all over the Bay Area. $10 cover, ages 21 and over. Vinnie’s Bar & Grill, 2045 Mount Diablo St., Concord. Information: 925-685-9515 or vinniesbar.com.

6th Annual Wine and Equine FestivalOctober 205:30pm. Enjoy a relaxing evening of dinner, estate-grown wines from Wente Vineyard, dancing and live and silent auctions benefi ting the Sonrise Equestrian Foundation, a volunteer-based non-profi t organization making a positive difference for children ages 6 to 18 living with social, emotional or physical challenges including life limiting illnesses. Participating children develop confi dence, integrity and responsibility through mentoring and peer relationships centered around the care and enjoyment of horses. $125 tickets available online at www.sonriseequestrianfoundation.org or by calling 925-838-RIDE (7433).

San Ramon Valley Green DrinksOctober 235-7 pm. Join us and meet other fun green-minded folks to informally socialize and network. All are welcome. Hosted by Sustainable San Ramon and the Green Business Network of Contra Costa. Free. Beverages and food available for pur-chase. While they last, appetizers provided by Jack’s. Jacks Sports Pub & Grill, 2410 San Ramon Valley Blvd. Information: anne@sustainablesanramon.org or 925-830-9262.

Ghostbustin’ in DanvilleOctober 263:30-5pm or 5-7pm. This year’s fall festival, geared toward children ages 1-9, includes arts and crafts, games, and trick-or-treating. Space is limited. Walk-ins are not available. Pre-register online at www.danvillerecguide.com or mail registration forms to Danville Community Center, 420 Front Street, Danville, CA 94526.

Peace Awards Dinner wi th Specia l Guest Congresswoman Barbara LeeOctober 276pm (doors open 5:30) The Mt. Diablo Peace and Justice Center will honor Congresswoman Barbara Lee (CA-09) at its Peace Awards Dinner. Congresswoman Lee will be given the “Peacemaker of the Decade” award for her unwavering voice for peace. Dinner, live music, raffl e, art exhibit. Tickets $85 at brownpapertickets.com/event/274969 or at the MtDPJC offi ce at 55 Eckley Lane, Walnut Creek. Information: mtdpc.org or 925-933-7850.

Storytime with the FarmerOctober 2910-11am. Fun at Forest Home Farms Historic Park for little farmers ages 3 through 5. Hear stories, sing songs, and create Halloween arts and crafts. The Pumpkin Patch will be open to visit after the program. Pre-registration is required. $5 for residents, $6 for non-residents. Register online at www.sanramonrecguide.com for activity #82327. Information 925-973-3200.

Hike Leader Workshop October 30 6-8pm. Save Mount Diablo is recruiting hike leaders to share their love of the mountain with others. RSVP required. Call 925-947-3535 or email gphillips@savemountdiablo.org. Save Mt. Diablo, 1901 Olympic Blvd, Suite 320, Walnut Creek. Information: savemountdiablo.org.

A Holistic Approach to Making a Home Healthier, More Comfortable and Energy Effi cientNovember 1 6:30-8 pm. Join Green Remodel Forum for a presentation of common problems that cause homes to be less healthy and comfortable than they can be, and the steps to take

that will make the home a better place to live and more energy effi cient. San Ramon Library, 100 Montgomery St. Information: greenremodelforum.com.

CityRead Closing Event with Author Aimee BenderNovember 77pm. CityRead concludes with a special presentation and signing featuring national bestselling and award-winning author of The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake, Aimee Bender. $5. Dougherty Valley Performing Arts Center, 10550 Albion Road, San Ramon. Information/reservations: 973-ARTS(2787) or sanramonperformingarts.com.

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.

Buzz Sessions: Get the buzz on topics and issues facing today’s older adults and talk with the experts. Buzz Sessions are always free! Information: 925-314-3400.

Sneaker Trips: All trips meet at the Danville Park & Ride lot unless otherwise noted in the trip details. Reserve your spot at the Danville Community Center, 420 Front Street, on or before the registration date beginning at 8:30am. Information: 925-314-3400.

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.

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 & Thursday, 10am-1pm. Information: 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.

BUSINESS

Alamo Chamber of Commerce October 24Business After Hours Trade Show & Mixer. 5-7 pm. A local Alamo business showcase; this is a great way to discover businesses in your area, or to advertise your own small business. Round Hill Country Club, Alamo. Information: contact Sharon Schuyler at 925-708-8546.

Danville Area Chamber of CommerceOctober 11After Hours Mixer. 5:30-7pm. See the newly remodeled Empire Realty offi ce, meet the staff, and network with Danville business peers. Food and beverages will be provided. $5 for members, $20 for guests. Empire Realty Associates, 380 Diablo Rd. Danville. Information: danvilleareachamber.com or 925-837-4400.

San Ramon Chamber of CommerceThird Thursday Mixer5:30-7:30pm. Meet other business owners for an opportunity to network and make your business more visible. $5 members, $20 nonmembers. Blackhawk Plaza, 3499 Blackhawk Circle Plaza, Danville. Tickets/information: sanramon.org.

valleysentinel.com October 2012 The Valley SenTinel page 13

units, Department of Defense medical and non-medical forces. Applicants must also meet education and applicable license requisites. Must be able to speak, read, write, and understand English, to provide proof of U.S. Citizenship and the ability to travel as needed. Apply: www.esascorp.com, select Career Center, Job ID# J12042, Job ID# J12048 or Job ID #J12050, EOE.

Classif ieds FOR SALE

Exceptional landscaping plants at great low prices. Local. Call 925 285-0351.

Hand crafted oak cabinet. 30x30x12.Brand New! Paid $300 -asking $200. 925 828-2812.

Lt. Maple Bedroom furniture ; nightstand 24x26, dresser 66x32, chest of drawers 63x28. Best Offer. Call 925 858-2186.

SERVICES

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.

HELP WANTED

IT App. Eng.: M.S. in Electrical & Comp. Eng. or rltd., & exp. with MicroStrategy Administration & Schema Development; ETL process design using Informatica; & MicroStrategy software and Security Implementation. CV to: Bank of the West, 2527 Camino Ramon, San

Ramon, CA 94583. ATTN: H.R. or email careers@bankofthewest.com. EEO. Position located in San Ramon, CA.

Eagle Systems, a federal contractor, is seeking resumes at Camp Parks, CA for potential Logistics Manager and Supply positions in the area of medical logistics to manage and conduct inventory in support of all United States Army Reserve medical

The San Ramon Chamber of Commerce presents the 24th Annual Wine and DineOctober 185:30-8:30pm. Enjoy an evening of wine tasting, micro-brew tasting while sampling culinary creations from over 40 local vendors. In addition there will be music to dance to, raffle prizes to win, plus much more! Tickets: $35 in advance, $45 at the door. ClubSport San Ramon, 350 Bollinger Canyon Lane. Information: sanramon.org or 925-242-0600.

San Ramon Chamber New and Future Member Orientation October 234-5pm. Please come and learn about the various Chamber services that can benefit your business. No RSVP is needed. Free. Bishop Ranch 6, 2400 Camino Ramon Conference Room 158/K, San Ramon. Information: sanramon.org or 925-242-0600.

Walnut Creek Chamber of CommerceOctober 25B.A.S.H. Monthly Mixer. 5:30-7pm. Join us at our Business and Social Hour mixer. Network with chamber members, government offi cials, educators and local businesses. Members are admitted free, non-members $10. Please bring your business card. Shadelands Art Center. 111 N. Wiget Lane, Walnut Creek. Information: walnut-creek.com or 925-934-2007.

Business Expo 2012November 14-7pm. Business owners can showcase their companies.. Admission is free to the public, and it is a great way to support local businesses in the Bay Area. Crowne Plaza Hotel, 45 John Glenn Drive, Concord. Information for business owners who want to set up a booth: contracosta.ca . thechamber l ink .com/5_chambers_business_expo.html or contact Gina Rigley at 925-685-1181.

CLUBS and ORGANIZATIONS

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 tend toward laughing while getting well. Call 925-837-0510.

Volunteers Needed: Read to PreschoolersVolunteers are needed to read to kids ages 3-5 in preschool 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.

ALS Association: East Bay Walk to Defeat ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis)October 79:30am registration.11am-2pm walk. A two-mile trek to help fi nd a cure for ALS. Heather Farm Park, Walnut Creek. Registration: webgw.alsa.org/site/TR/Walks/GoldenWest?pg=ent ry&f r_i d = 8 1 7 3 . I n f o r m a t i o n : alsagoldenwest.org.

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

Tuesdays:Danville AM Toastmasters7-8:30am. Meets every Tuesday. N e w m e m b e r s w e l c o m e . Father Nature’s Restaurant, Danville. Information: danville am.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 F loo r Con fe rence Room,

COMMUNITY CALENDAR (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12)

www.valleysentinel.com

3160 Crow Canyon Rd., San Ramon. Information: 4160.toastmastersclubs.org.ARF Pet Loss Support Group12-1:30pm. Meets every first Tuesday of the month. In a nurturing small group, you are encouraged to process feelings of grief resulting from the loss of pet. Register with Vicki at 925-887-5678 or vickis@hospiceeastbay.org. ARF, 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: arf.net.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.

Wednesdays: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. Information: coachstepper@yahoo.com.Alamo Rotary 12:15pm. Meets every Wednesday. Round Hill Country Club, 3169 Roundhill Road, Alamo. Information: alamorotary.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.San Ramon Valley Rotary7pm. Meets every Wednesday. Crow Canyon Country Club, 711 Silver Lake Drive, Danville. Information: sanramonvalleyrotary.com.Walnut Creek Toastmasters7 - 8 : 1 5 p m . M e e t s e v e r y Wednesday. 1660 Oak Park

925-820-6047

Danville • Blackhawk • Alamo • Diablo • San Ramon

390 Diablo Road, Suite 145Danville, CA 94526

Community News & Information

Publisher/Editor -Denise Rousset Chief Financial Offi cer -Jeff GummereGraphic Designer -Laurie Prindle

Advertising Mgr. -Roseann ChamardWriter, Auto -David & Judy ColmanIT Support -Light Speed Systems

Bay Area Carl’s Jr. franchisees donate $25,000 to Sentinels of Freedom

As part of its Stars for Heroes™ patriotic fundraising campaign, Carl’s Jr.® -and its Bay Area franchisees presented a $25,000 check donation to Sentinels of Freedom on Saturday, Sept. 22 following the charity’s fi rst Veterans Victory Velo Bike Ride. Sentinels of Freedom is a non-profi t organization that supports severely wounded military veterans gain self-sufficiency and return to civilian life. For

more information visit www.sentinelsoffreedom.org

By Staff Writer

Interns -Michelle Du, Aaron Peng, Brian Yu

Blvd., Pleasant Hill. Information: walnutcreek.freetoasthost.net.Blue Star Moms7-9pm. Meets the second Wednesday of every month. Danville Veterans Memorial Bu i ld ing , 400 Har tz Ave . Information: bluestarmoms.org.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.Danville Toastmasters Club #17857 : 3 0 - 9 p m . M e e t s e v e r y Wednesday. Room W204 at Diablo Valley College,1690 Watermill Road, San Ramon. Information: danvilletoastmasters1785.com.Veterans of Foreign Wars7:30pm. 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.

Thursdays:San Ramon Valley Newcomers11:30am-2pm. Meets every third Thursday. Faz’s Restaurant, 600

Hartz Ave., Danville. $21 for lunch. New and long-time residents are welcome. Reservations/information: 925-828-8554. Rotary Club of San Ramon11:45am. Meets every Thursday. Crow Canyon Country Club, 711 Silver Lake Drive, Danville. Information: sanramonrotary.org.Diablo Numismatic Society7-9pm. Meets every third Thursday. Concord Police Community Meeting Room, 1350 Galindo Street, Concord. Information: diablocoinclub.org.Clutterers Anonymous7-8 pm. Meets every second Thursday. St. Luke’s Lutheran Church room 7, 2491 San Miguel Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: 925-736-8627.Diablo Valley Lions Club7:30pm. Meets every 1st, 3rd, and 4th Thursday. 1400 Montego Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: diablovalleyca.lionwap.org.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.

AUTOMarch 2009

page 14 The Valley SenTinel October 2012 valleysentinel.com

There’s good news for those of you stuck in the past, longing for the days when voluptuous sheet metal and big block engines ruled the highways of America. Dodge has recreated the magic of those golden days of yore with the Charger R/T. It’s a sizeable sedan, with 4 cavernous doors that open wide to accommodate 5 adults, plus a 16.5 cubic foot trunk to haul all their stuff. Somehow, Dodge engineers have managed to wrap all that practicality in an alluringly sculpted skin that looks lean and mean. Charger’s styling renaissance

2012 Dodge Charger R/T Road & TrackBy David and Judy Colman

dates to 2011. Conspicuously reflective chrome clad alloys, 20 inches in diameter, 8 inched in width, and carrying chunky 245/45R20 Goodyear F1 tires, play off the subtle contours of the revised body.

Dodge has given the new Charger a redone interior that looks handsome, feels good to the touch, and most importantly, works well in everyday use. A satisfying combination of expensive leathers, suede and surface treatments remove Charger from the airport rental fleet and elevate it to the exotic loan portfolio. The central touch screen video

unit, about the size of an iPad, works flawlessly to control most functions you’ll need to adjust, including climate, radio, telephone, and personalized settings. Redundant buttons are splayed across the dash to allow immediate access to such essentials as fan speed, temperature, and defrosters. There’s even a real, grabable knob for radio volume and a matching one for station selection, with supplemental controls available on the steering wheels spokes. If you can’t figure out how to get the job done in this cockpit, then you don’t need to do the job.

We spent 3 hours in this environment on a drive from the Bay Area to the Gold Country foothills, and another 3 hours on the return trip. The Charger performed flawlessly, churning out more than enough passing power from its 5.7 liter HEMI V8 to snuff slower traffic in an eye blink. Yet the cruising gate of the Charger consumed less than half a 19 gallon tank of fuel for the entire round trip. At a steady 65mph, the Dodge managed to score a miserly 25MPG while whistling down the Interstate with quiet precision. On twisty backroads, the Hemi Charger is an even more invigorating blast to drive. Tromp the loud pedal and this beefy beast explodes with massive forward thrust. No need to downshift unless you want to savor the experience of swapping cogs. The Hemi makes enough torque in any speed range to get the job done right now with nothing more than the automatic kickdown that occurs whenever you floor the accelerator. If you live in snow country, you can equip your Charger with optional all wheel drive.

The allure of the Charger is enhanced by the addition of the R/T package, which adds $4,000 to the car’s modest $29,995 base price. This 29R

option group makes the Hemi work harder and the cockpit feel better. The motor receives a more efficient computer control box or “High Speed Engine Controller,” plus “Customer Selectable Sport Mode” for increased engine, gearbox and suspension responsiveness. The R/T package adds a 3.06:1 differential gear, paddle shifters on the steering wheel, and lovely ventilated suede front seats to the sporting mix. The Super Track Pak, a bargain at $400, not only stiffens the suspension but also quickens the steering ratio. The downside of these handling improvements is a choppy ride that constantly reminds you that your Charger is more ready to boogie than browse.

2012 DODGE CHARGER R/T

ENGINE: 5.7 liter OHV HEMI with VVT and FUEL SAVER TECHNOLOGY

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valleysentinel.com October 2012 The Valley SenTinel page 15

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Health insurance isn’t the easiest thing to understand. But if you have Medicare, there’s a variety of help resources you can turn to.

One is Medicare’s toll-free help line, 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). Trained representatives are available 24 hours a day, every day of the year to answer your questions about your Medicare coverage.

All people with Medicare receive a copy of the “Medicare & You” handbook in the mail each fall. This booklet has a wide range of information about what Medicare covers and what it costs. It includes details about Original Medicare as well as privately-run Medicare health and prescription drug plans that you can join.

Another useful resource is Medicare’s consumer-friendly website, at www.Medicare.gov. Among other things, the website has tools that let you compare Medicare health and

Getting answers to your Medicare questions By David Sayen

drug plans. (You can also look for local hospitals, skilled nursing homes, home health agencies, and dialysis centers that best fi t your needs.)

Yet another terrifi c way to get your questions answered is to make an appointment with your local Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program, or HICAP.

HICAP provides free, personalized counseling to people with Medicare. You can speak with a trained HICAP counselor over the phone or in person. The counselor will give you accurate, unbiased advice about your Medicare benefi ts and how to get the most out of them.

HICAP counselors can help you with questions about Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage plans, Medicare supplement (Medigap) policies, Medicare Part D prescription drug plans, Medicare Savings Programs, and long-term care insurance.

Got a prob lem wi th a medical bill? HICAP can help you deal with it. HICAP counselors are volunteers and they’re often enrolled in Medicare themselves, so they know the issues. They can help

you understand your Medicare rights, file a complaint if you feel you got inadequate care from a hospital or other healthcare provider, or fi le an appeal if your Medicare health or drug plan denied you a service.

With Medicare open enrollment season coming up (it runs from Oct. 15 to Dec. 7), you may be thinking about joining a Medicare health or drug plan, or switching from one plan to another. HICAP can help you choose a plan that best meets your needs in terms of cost, coverage, and convenience. A counselor can sit down with you and help you compare various plans until you fi nd the right one. They also can help you enroll in that plan.

Let’s say you take multiple prescription medications. A HICAP counselor can enter all your drugs into Medicare’s Plan Finder tool (available through www.Medicare.gov) and search for plans that cover your drugs. The counselor will then help you compare plans based on monthly premiums, co-pays, and any restrictions that may apply.

If you have a low income, the counselor can help you

Seniors

apply for the “Extra Help” program, which helps pay your costs in a Medicare drug plan.

You can reach the HICAP offi ce nearest you by calling this toll-free number: 800-434-0222.

HICAP isn’t affi liated with any insurance company and won’t try to sell you insurance. (Funded through federal grants, the program is operated by the California Department of

Aging.) Your name will never be passed along for commercial purposes and your personal health information will be kept strictly confi dential.

HICAP’s only goal is to help you get the best possible health care under your Medicare coverage.

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

SAN CARLOS1123 Industrial Road

650-577-8979

CAMPBELL930 West Hamilton Ave.

408-871-8890

DANVILLE1901 Camino Ramon

925-866-6164

CORTE MADERA801 Tamalpais Dr.

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MOUNTAIN VIEW141 El Camino Real

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Advertorial

Current Real Estate Trends

The Fed will buy $40 billion of mortgage-backed securities (MBS) each month, a move it hopes will drive down the already record-low rates for home loans and spur economic growth that in turn will drive down unemployment. What does this mean to the consumer? Lower Interest Rates! This will help the housing industry, which Ben Bernanke, chairman of the Federal Reserve, recently said was the weakest link in the economic recovery. This was no surprise to markets as many analysts and traders were expecting the Fed would buy MBS. What was somewhat shocking was the Federal Open Market Committee statement that said the Fed would buy $40B now and will continue to do it with no announced limit to the amount. With no maximum or time limit; Bernanke stated that he will do what it takes to get the

The Fed committed to lower ratesBy Jason Brown

- Call 925-785-4200

economy growing. This move rocked the markets. The Fed’s open-ended commitment lit a fi re under investors to continue selling treasuries and launch heavy buying of MBS. Since the Fed has bought $360B of treasuries with maturities over seven years, (about 65% of the Treasury issuance this year). It appears the Fed wants to stay away from Treasuries. Many were concerned more treasury buying might disrupt the Treasury market. Based on estimates, the Fed’s easing

and its re-investing principal payments back into MBS purchases may absorb up to 80% of the MBS market.

Now is the time to talk to your mortgage professional to discuss positioning yourself to take advantage of these historical rates.

Jason Brown is Senior Vice President and Mortgage Consultant at StoneCastle Land and Home Financial in Danville. He can be reached at 925-785-4200 or at JBrown@Stonecastle-LHF.com. (DRE License #01190676NMLS#270050)

Danville San Ramon Aug. 2011 Aug. 2012 Aug. 2011 Aug. 2012

Homes Newly Listed 93 72 141 100Number of Homes Sold 71 71 111 82Median Sale Price $735,000 $819,000 $625,000 $651,355

Source: MLS data

The digital presentation of your home is critical

Advertorial

By Jeff and Jan Bruno

Virtually all buyers see a home for the fi rst time on their phone, tablet, or laptop. A motivated buyer will likely know of your home’s availability within minutes of it being entered on to the MLS. The buyer of your home will likely be engaged in one, or more, of hundreds of web sites that compile and distribute MLS data. The process happens automatically and instantly.

Buyers are educated, technically savvy, and impatient. A home will be sent, and evaluated, in a matter of seconds as the buyer swipes through the photos. Outstanding homes may

be eliminated from contention due to poor photography. The lesson here is that your home’s digital presentation cannot be compromised or underestimated. The first impression is everything. A home that is expertly prepared for market and professionally photographed will have the best chance of selling at its highest potential price.

Jeff and Jan Bruno are Realtors with Pacific Union International in Danville. They may be reached at 925-789-0987, thebrunos@pacunion.com. Learn more at www.jeffandjanbruno.com. (DRE #00863829 & #01890309)