2026 APRIL ~ Alamo Today & Danville Today News

TRINITY CENTER

By Traci Wyss

A COMMUNITY LIFELINE TO HOUSING STABILITY

The cycle of homelessness can be vicious and complex. For many, it is a symptom of mental health challenges or substance use disorder. Once someone loses stable housing, those struggles can intensify rapidly, making it incredibly difficult to find a way back from it. Looking for work without an address to put on job applications and lacking appropriate clothes creates an impossible situation. Even with a job, how does one keep it without a safe place to sleep at night?

THE BANDIT OF THE BIRD FEEDER

By Wallace De Young, Naturalist

Many of us take great pleasure watching our bird feeders and all of the activity that they bring. Some go so far as to catalog how many different species of passerines (or “songbirds/perching birds”) visit the feast of seed and nuts that we offer. I often find myself mesmerized by the spectacle, staring out the window at the frantic feeding activity, watching which birds are fearless bullies, and which are more prone to take flight at the first sign of aggression.

See Hawk continued on page 26

This is where the 501(c)(3) nonprofit Trinity Center enters the picture to disrupt the cycle and help people find their steady place for good. Trinity Center, located at 1888 Trinity Ave. in Walnut Creek, “empowers individuals in their journey toward housing, financial stability, and overall wellness.”

Founded in 2012 in an abandoned building with the singular goal of providing a warm meal to unhoused people, Trinity Center expanded their vision over time. Beyond providing necessities, like food, hygiene, and healthcare, Trinity Center programs take a holistic approach to helping unhoused people. By addressing physical and mental health along with workforce development,

See Trinity continued on page 16

A PLACE FOR VETERANS TO GATHER DANVILLE’S VETERANS DAY ROOM NOW OPEN

New gathering space at the Veterans Memorial Building offers fellowship, connection, and community

The Veterans Memorial Building in Danville is now home to a special place set aside just for those who have served our country.

The Veterans Day Room, located at 400 Hartz Avenue, offers veterans a welcoming space to gather, visit, and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow veterans

See Gather continued on page 8

FIGHT FOR AIR CLIMB

By Linda Summers Pirkle

Imagine a 1950s hospital corridor. A nurse wheels her cart toward a patient’s bedside filled with essential items including snacks, magazines, chewing gum, and toiletries, everything a person might need. The delivery would not be complete without a couple additional items: a pack of cigarettes and a book of matches.

In When Nurses Smoked in Hospitals, Ersilia Pompilio, RN, MSN, PNP, paints a vivid picture of an era when smoking was not merely tolerated in healthcare settings but woven into the fabric of patient care. Some doctors even prescribed cigarettes, mistakenly believing the habit could soothe anxious patients. This casual acceptance didn’t fade with the decade, nor was it confined to patients alone. Pompilio writes, “Doctors might smoke cigars

See Climb continued on page 22

GOT SNEAKERS?

Donate your Athletic Shoes in ANY condition, new to very used.

WANTED

All sizes, All styles, All brands.

Athletic footwear only, please.

DROP-OFF

Friday, April 17th, 2PM-5PM Alamo Women’s Club 1401 Danville Blvd., Alamo

Nike, Adidas, Hoka, On, Converse, or any other brand!

Celebrate Earth Day

Donate your sneakers and tennis shoes. Eliminate waste in partnership with GotSneakers. Shoes are reused or recycled.

Together We Give

BOULEVARD VIEW

By Alisa Corstorphine, Editor and Publisher

It seems like winter largely passed us by this year. While we did get some rain and a few cool days, my coat and umbrella barely left the closet. While California is known for many days of beautiful weather, we usually get a cool reset. That didn’t happen.

Nurseries are stocked with spring plants and garden starts. Flowers are blooming, and visions of summer fruits and veggies are on my mind. See “Postcards From the Hedge” on page 12 to hear what columnist Jill has happening in her yard.

For me, I’m sifting dirt to refill my garden beds, and my red wiggler worms are multiplying and consuming my compost, which will help replenish my soil. Zucchini and tomatoes will grace my beds along with various herbs, lemongrass, ginger, and butternut squash, which when harvested in the fall, will last through next winter.

As many of you know, I volunteer in cat and kitten rescue. With the warm weather, kitten season is now year-round. Any felines that make it into a rescue group are the lucky ones. Cats can become pregnant as young as four months of age, have three to four litters a year, of generally two to eight kittens. It’s exponential math, and frankly overwhelming. So, if you see and feed a community cat (aka “feral”), please make sure to help get them trapped, spayed and neutered, and then returned. A “tipped” ear is a signal to all that someone cared enough to get that done.

The most reasonable and accessible places to schedule a spay or neuter for a cat or dog, would be Valley Humane in Pleasanton - valleyhumane.org/surgery-center or the Pet Advocate in Tracy - pricing and scheduling can be found at www.thepetadvocatevet.com. The Joybound (formerly ARF) clinic in Walnut Creek also offers community services with a little more lead-time. Learn more at joybound.org/services/spay-and-neuter, and also check their “Spay/ Neuter Resources” list on that page. If you are looking to bring a feline into your home, adopt from a rescue (I foster for the Feral Cat Foundation, see their ad on page 14) or shelter, where all adopted animals are spayed and neutered before going to their new homes.

If you are feeding outdoor cats, please don’t believe that old myth about giving them milk. Cats are lactose intolerant and have trouble digesting milk which can lead to GI issues.

Do the ants go marching one by one, or hundreds by hundreds, in your home? We just had the first onslaught of the year and I think they are just a harbinger for their buddies that will be following. We have plugged every crack we can find, but that just seems like “whacka-mole.” As soon as we block one spot, they find another. We wipe down trails, bait with Terro, and still they just know we are the place to find endless food. So, while we don’t seem to be able to fully eliminate them, we have found a way to keep them out of our pets food. Like my son and his inventions you read about last month, someone came up with a great idea to keep the little critters out of the food dishes. The SoulThink bowl tray provides a path the ants have a hard time following and it keeps them at bay. I don’t get any commissions, but I hope the company gets rewarded for their great idea. I bought my dishes on Amazon, tinyurl.com/f8vzjtf. It was $20 well spent.

As-if the ants weren’t bad enough, be prepared to see lots of fleas (even on indoor only pets) and check for ticks after every walk. An ounce of prevention can go a long way.

Fire has become something we all need to consider. If you find your homeowners insurance has not been renewed, check out the article from Bill White on page 15. And, learn how to keep your home more fire-safe with tips from Brende Lamb on page 17.

It’s not all doom and gloom! I hope you enjoy our beautiful days and warm evenings. Get out and about and participate in the upcoming Shops and Hops, Sip and Stroll, Egg Hunts, and Lend a Hand day (learn more about this April 25th event at danville.ca.gov/volunteer) events. See the Anza exhibit at the downtown Danville Museum of the San Ramon Valley, attend one of the great music performances noted on page 6, or drop off a pair of sneakers at the Alamo Women’s Club Sneaker Drive. There is something for everyone to enjoy in the lovely communities that surround us.

DANVILLE COMMUNITY BAND PRESENTS

MUSICAL TALES OF WONDER FOR ALL

AGES

Calling kids (and adults) of any age! Come listen and enjoy a free musical concert with selections from Wicked, The Wizard of Oz, KPop Demon Hunters, The Lion King, Moana, How to Train Your Dragon, a medley from Lilo & Stitch, and more!

The concert will be held at 3PM on May 16th, at the Del Valle Theater, 1963 Tice Valley Blvd., Walnut Creek. Donations are always welcome. Learn more at danvilleband.org

ANNUAL CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION DAY RESOURCE FAIR & PETTING ZOOS

The event will take place on the North Patio at Lunardi’s Market, 345 Railroad Avenue, Danville.

The Exchange Club of the San Ramon Valley will hold its annual “Child Abuse Prevention Day” Resource Fair on Saturday, April 25th from 10AM to noon

“This is a National Exchange Club program that we are proud to bring to our community in Danville and the San Ramon Valley. We believe in keeping our kids safe and offering resources to the community at-large, in partnership with Danville Police Department and the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District,” said Tim White, President of the Exchange Club of the San Ramon Valley.

The event features safety resources for parents and includes two petting zoos for kids – the Little Explorers and Jungle James zoos, which have become a community favorite, along with the Bearded Dragon, goats, bunnies, sheep, and chickens will be onsite to meet. The San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District will have personnel and their fire truck on site.

CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION DAY RESOURCE FAIR

For more info, visit srvexchangeclub.com/child-abuse-prevention-day

Learn more about the Exchange Club of the San Ramon Valley at srvexchangeclub.com

Questions may be directed to Karen Stepper, Danville Town Councilmember at coachstepper@yahoo.com

ROTARY OFF TO THE RACES! A NIGHT OF FUN RETURNS APRIL 24

The Danville San Ramon Rotary Club is gearing up for its Second Annual Night at the Races on Friday, April 24th - an evening of fast-paced fun, friendly competition, and community connection. Open to the public, this lively event brings the excitement of the racetrack indoors at the San Ramon Community Center’s Fountain Room.

Guests will enjoy heart-pounding horse races projected on a 14 - foot screen, a delicious buffet dinner catered by Simple Elegance, exciting prizes, and a festive, family-friendly atmosphere. Attendees are encouraged to dress in their best Derby-inspired attire for a spirited outfit contest that adds to the fun. Last year’s inaugural event was a crowd favorite, drawing participants of all ages, and this year promises to be even more memorable.

Early bird pricing is available through April 15th. The Rotary Club anticipates a sellout crowd. Proceeds support the club’s local and international service projects, making the evening both entertaining and impactful.

Gather your friends and join in for an unforgettable night - all while helping make a positive difference in the community. Registration and photos from last year’s event can be found at danvillesanramonrotary. org, or email connect@danvillesanramonrotary.org with questions.

DANVILLE’S 2026 EGGSTRAVAGANZA

The Town of Danville invites families to the annual Eggstravaganza, taking place Saturday, April 4th at the Danville Community Center and Town Green.

2026 AAUW DAW GARDEN TOUR Gardens that

Inspire

Enjoy a self-guided stroll through five wonderful private gardens in Danville and Alamo.

It's Mother’s Day Weekend!

Bring Your Mom or a Friend!

Friday, May 8th & Saturday May 9th, 10AM – 4PM

Tickets: $45 per person through April 23, $50 afterwards. To purchase tickets use QR code.

To learn more about AAUW, visit daw-ca.aauw.net

WHAT'S HAPPENING AT MSRV IN APRIL

Almost 250 years ago, as the Declaration of Independence was signed on the East Coast, the Anza expedition arrived at its destination on the West Coast. Both of these events would dramatically shape the cultural and political landscapes of the United States.

Collaborating with the National Park Service, the Museum of the San Ramon Valley presents an exhibit that celebrates the achievements of the Anza expedition which opened the Presidio in San Francisco, Mission Dolores, and explored the East Bay. Join us in honoring the exploration of the west and understand how colonial expansion continues to impact it today. This exhibit will close on May 31st .

The Third Thursday free virtual program will be on April 16th at 11:30AM

The speaker is Christopher Bentley who is in charge of Anza Expedition for the National Park Service. To attend this free virtual program, register at museumsrv.org, select “What’s On,” and then “Virtual Programs.”

The Museum is located at 205 Railroad Ave in Danville. The Museum is open Tuesday-Friday 1PM-4PM, Saturday 10AM-2PM and Sunday noon-3PM For more information, visit museumsrv.org or call 925-837-3750.

BOBBY’S BRIGADE CARE PACKAGING EVENT

Bobby’s Brigade will host its 13th annual care packaging event on Saturday, May 2nd. The Creekside Community Church located at 1350 Danville Blvd. in Alamo, has once again graciously offered their venue.

This year will mark Bobby’s Brigade’s 18,000th care package provided for children in protective custody with the California Highway Patrol. These packages are used for calls involving auto accidents, domestic abuse, child neglect, drunk driving, or anytime a child has to be separated from their parents by the CHP for their own protection.

The celebration promises a fun-filled day of activities for children and families, including egg hunts, arts and crafts, face painting, and more. Downtown Danville businesses will also join in the celebration with special promotions, festive treats, and activities throughout the day.

To register, visit danville.ca.gov/recguide or call 925-314-3400 for information.

Community members will package 1,200 care packages with a teddy bear, Beanie Baby, coloring book, colored pencils, and a special message from the children that prepared the packages.

All ages are welcome. Youngsters need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Volunteers for set up arrive at 8AM, volunteers for packaging arrive at 10AM, and the event is expected to finish by 3PM. Coffee, hot chocolate, juice boxes, and donuts will be served.

Please join in for a wonderful day of community service that builds friendly relationships between children and law enforcement.

Contact Mark Redman at 925-336-9425 with any questions.

THE BLACKHAWK CHORUS PRESENTS

OURAMERICANMUSICALJOURNEY

The Blackhawk Chorus, a 100-voice community ensemble based in Danville, celebrates its 34th season under Artistic Director Ken Abrams. Ken joined the group in 2021 following a distinguished 36-year tenure leading San Ramon Valley High School’s acclaimed vocal music program.

This spring, the Chorus presents Our American Musical Journey, a program inspired by the nation’s approaching 250th anniversary. The concert explores how music has reflected America’s history, values, struggles, and aspirations.

Spanning folk traditions, jazz, rock and roll, beloved popular songs, and contemporary musical theater, the program weaves a rich choral tapestry of the American experience.

Performances will be held at 7PM on May 2nd at Walnut Creek Presbyterian Church and at 2PM on May 3rd at the California High School Performing Arts Center in San Ramon.

Tickets are $40 for adults, and $20 for children 12 and younger. Group discounts are available! For more information visit BlackhawkChorus.com/events

HEAR BEETHOVEN’S FIRST AS IF FOR THE FIRST TIME

Imagine hearing Beethoven’s Symphony No. 1 for the very first time—its opening catching listeners off guard, its wit and energy signaling something entirely new. At Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra concerts, performed on gut strings, valveless trumpets and horns, and wooden flutes, you’ll hear the music much as early audiences did, with a clarity and vivid sound that electrified its first listeners.

In Kinks and Quirks, violinist and conductor Shunske Sato—“a musical force to be reckoned with” (South Florida Classical Review)—traces Beethoven’s originality back to the symphonies of C.P.E. Bach, whose daring, unpredictable musical “kinks and quirks” shaped a generation of composers, from Mozart to Beethoven to a teenage Mendelssohn. The program brings these connections to life, pairing Beethoven’s Symphony No. 1 with C.P.E. Bach’s surprising Symphony in F major, Mendelssohn’s youthful Violin Concerto, and Mozart’s theatrical Thamos, King of Egypt. Sato leads these season-finale performances. Thursday, April 23rd, 7:30PM at the Herbst Theatre in San Francisco; Friday, April 24th, 7:30PM at First United Methodist Church in Palo Alto, and Saturday, April 25th, 2:30PM at First Congregational Church in Berkeley.

Tickets are $40–$125; $20 for ages under 30. Learn more at philharmonia. org, or call 415-295-1900.

CHROMATICA PRESENTS

“THERE IS

SWEET MUSIC HERE: MUSIC TO MOVE THE SOUL”

AXIS DANCE COMPANY PRESENTS PATTERNS

APRIL 3-4 AT THE LESHER CENTER FOR THE ARTS

Every body carries patterns of movement, habit, culture, identity, and history. These patterns shape how we navigate the world—they repeat, evolve, and at times constrain us. Through a series of live dance performances and a short film, AXIS Dance Company’s Patterns explores how individuality are expressions of the infinite ways we move and connect. Witness this celebration of humanity in motion, and experience the new possibilities that emerge.

Founded in 1987 and based in Berkeley, AXIS is one of the nation’s leading ensembles of disabled, non-disabled, D/deaf, and neurodivergent performers. The company is internationally recognized for productions that challenge perceptions and redefine dance and disability.

AXIS Dance Company Presents Patterns: Friday, April 3rd at 7:30PM (with ASL interpretation and Post-Show Q&A); Saturday, April 4th at 2PM (with Audio Description and Pre-Show Touch Tour; masks are required for this performance); Saturday, April 4th at 7:30PM. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. Tickets online at axisdance.org or by phone at the Lesher Center Ticket Office, 925-943-7469 (Wednesday–Sunday, noon–6PM). Prices start at $32/$20 for students. Readers can save 25% off full-priced tickets using Promo Code: SAVE25 at checkout.

DIABLO WOMEN’S CHORALE PRESENTS BONVOYAGE!

Spring brings blooming landscapes and the urge to explore. Whether you are bound for a Midnight Train to Georgia or returning Home, the Diablo Women’s Chorale (DWC) welcomes you aboard BonVoyage—a spirited musical journey celebrating the joys of traveling and reconnecting with those we love.

Established in 1942 during WWII, DWC -- under the current leadership of Artistic Director Erin Fishler and accompanied by recording artist Rebecca Hass -- offers vibrant seasonal programs featuring traditional, contemporary, and innovative music.

Danville resident Hildy Defrisco reflects on her 40 seasons: “DWC has been a joy in my life. The endorphins, when the harmonies hit just right, are fantastic and keep me coming back.”

Sherry Dorfman, also from Danville, shares her 13-season experience: “It feels like I've been singing with DWC all my life. I’m so happy to have found this wonderful group of women with whom I share this joy.”

Danville residents and new DWC singers Emma Dunstone-Brown and Jill Hair describe the joy, warm welcome, and community spirit of the DWC. Emma offers: “Monday night rehearsals have become my favorite night of the week.”

Performing continuously for 83 years, DWC thrives today as a secular, age-diverse ensemble that continues to attract women from across the East Bay who share a desire to spread joy through music.

Buckle up and prepare to get your kicks on Route 66!

DWC performs on Friday, May 1st, at 7PM and Sunday, May 3rd, at 3PM at Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian Church, 49 Knox Drive, Lafayette.

Tickets are available at diablowomenschorale.org and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/DiabloWomensChorale

DWC welcomes new members in January and August, offers a Summer Session, and presents concerts in the spring and fall. It is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit art and education organization.

East Bay’s popular chorus, Chromatica, invites you to be moved by exquisite choral music at 7pm on April 25th at Peace Lutheran Church, 3201 Camino Tassajara in Danville, and at 4pm on April 26th at Holy Shepherd Lutheran Church, 433 Moraga Way in Orinda. The Danville concert will include Chromatica’s popular post-concert reception.

Fresh from its first out of town performance in Santa Fe, New Mexico where it received a standing ovation for its performance of Christopher Tin’s Transfigurations, Chromatica returns with a selection of thrilling choral pieces for its spring concerts. David Huff, Chromatica’s founding director, has assembled

THE GATTI REPORT: YOUR GREATER DANVILLE AREA REAL ESTATE UPDATE

By Joseph Gatti

The start of the 2026 spring housing market is echoing a familiar pattern from this time last year. In 2025, new tariff policies introduced volatility across stocks, interest rates, and ultimately real estate activity. This year, a different global force is at play: the war in Iran, creating similar ripple effects through rising oil prices and shifting economic expectations. Locally, inventory is clearly increasing, yet how these geopolitical pressures will influence buyer and seller behavior remains uncertain. As April and the months ahead unfold, the interaction between rising inventory, mortgage rate trends, and buyer sentiment will ultimately define the market’s direction. For those considering buying or selling, the Gatti Team, powered by Compass—the nation’s #1 brokerage—is here to provide clarity, strategy, and confidence in an evolving landscape.

At its March 18 meeting, the Federal Reserve held interest rates steady, as expected. However, Chair Jerome Powell emphasized that inflation has not cooled as much as anticipated, raising concerns among investors. The Fed also acknowledged uncertainty surrounding the economic impact of the U.S.–Iran conflict, noting that its trajectory remains unclear, even as rising oil prices have already pushed near-term inflation expectations higher. In response, mortgage rates have moved quickly, rising from 5.99% to 6.43% following the onset of the conflict. These shifts, driven by bond yields and inflation pressures tied to energy costs, highlight how closely housing affordability is linked to both monetary policy and global events.

Prior to the conflict, the housing market had been gaining momentum. By late February 2026, the 30-year fixed mortgage rate had reached its lowest level since September 2022, helping reengage buyers ahead of the spring season. That optimism shifted quickly after February 28, as rates climbed back above 6.1% and the 10-year

SONS IN RETIREMENT (SIR)

SAN RAMON VALLEY BRANCH #128

Are you a man over 50 in the San Ramon Valley looking for friendships and a whole lot of fun? SIR 128 is your kind of place.

We’re a vibrant community where men come together to enjoy life to the fullest. Our members enjoy walking groups, wine tasting, book clubs, poker nights, hiking, biking, fishing, and golf (both 9 and 18 holes). We also head out on monthly Bay Area excursions, so there’s always something new on the horizon.

The best part is the people. You’ll build friendships with men who are in the same season of life and ready to make the most of it.

Our monthly luncheons are a highlight, with great food and engaging speakers. First time coming solo? No worries, we save a special table just for new faces and guests attending alone. You’ll feel right at home from the moment you walk in.

Curious about joining us? We’d be delighted to meet you at our next gathering. To learn more or reserve your spot at an upcoming luncheon, email us at membership@sir128.com or visit www.SIR128.com.

Your next chapter of life starts here come see what makes SIR 128 special!

VETERAN SERVICE ORGANIZATION MEETINGS

Veteran Service Organizations meet at the Veterans Memorial Building of San Ramon Valley, 400 Hartz Avenue in Danville, except as otherwise noted.

• American Legion Post 246 meets on the first Wednesday of each month (except August and October). Odd numbered months at noon and even numbered months at 6PM. Visit americanlegionpost246.org, email commanderpost246@gmail.com, or call 925-272-8480.

• Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 75 of San Ramon Valley meets on the third Wednesday of each month at 7PM. Visit vfwpost75.org or email info@vfwpost75.org

• Viet Nam Veterans of the Diablo Valley meets on the first Thursday of each month at 5PM at The Bridges Golf Club, 9000 S. Gale Ridge Rd., San Ramon. Visit vnvdv.org/index.html or call 925-838-6445.

• Marine Corps League Detachment 942 meets on the fourth Saturday of each month at 8:30AM. Visit www.facebook.com/MCL942

• Military Order of the World Wars/Military Officers Association of America meets on the third Monday of each month at 5PM. Email pattywernet@ hotmail.com or cdtaddeo@yahoo.com

• Blue Star Moms Detachment 101 meets on the second Wednesday of each month at 7PM. Visit www.bluestarmoms.org or call 925-587-4037.

• Veterans Memorial Building of San Ramon Valley holds coffees on Saturdays from 9 AM to noon.

Gather continued from front page

in a comfortable local setting. Whether stopping by for conversation, meeting with friends, or taking part in a special event, veterans now have a place in the heart of town designed with them in mind.

The room also offers a variety of ways for veterans to relax and connect, including opportunities to play pool, enjoy darts, use a gaming table, and watch sports on a large-screen TV. The space is intended to be both inviting and practical — a place where veterans can unwind, share stories, and enjoy fellowship with others who have served.

The room is available to veterans whenever a docent is on duty at the Veterans Memorial Building and can be opened upon request. For organized gatherings or special events, reservations are requested to help prevent scheduling conflicts.

Local organizers hope the Veterans Day Room will become a valued community resource for veterans from Danville, Alamo, and nearby communities — a place where connections are renewed, friendships are built, and service is remembered with pride.

Residents are encouraged to help spread the word so that more veterans know this space is available to them.

For reservations or more information, email veterandayroom@gmail.com

SAN RAMON VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL

By Margot Schultz, senior

It’s a good thing Spring Break is at the start of April because it’s an event-filled month for the San Ramon Valley High (SRV) community.

On April 15th, the first week back from Spring Break, the main gym will be packed as our college-committed athletes sign their National Letters of Intent . This year, we have over 25 athletes signing (one of our largest groups ever). With acceptances from UC Berkeley to Cornell, our soon-to-be SRV alum will be making us proud coast to coast.

Then, on April 17th, the freshman class will celebrate Frosh Night. This year’s theme is Hollywood, featuring casino games, food from local restaurants, a prize raffle, and more. On the following day, our instrumental music program will host the annual Spring Jazz Concert. Open to the public, this concert showcases a repertoire of music that we’ve been hearing them prepare all year.

Our highly anticipated Senior Games Week starts on April 20th. It’s a long-standing tradition that brings the senior class together before they graduate in June. Students are drafted into teams and spend the week participating in friendly competitions like tug-of-war and relays during lunch. Our seniors will dress up in team colors and creative outfits to show off their spirit.

A special district-wide event, the String Festival, will take place on April 22nd in the main gym. Featuring musicians from elementary school beginners to experienced high school seniors, this unique performance offers a reflective look at each student’s musical journey, showing both where they’ve started and how far they’ve come.

Finally, at the end of the month, SRVHS will host several events celebrating student growth and achievement. First, the Wolf Pack Awards on April 27th will recognize students who have made a difference during their time at our school. These awards are nominated by staff, coaches, and booster groups for academic, artistic, and athletic excellence. Also, one of the most watched (and hardest to get tickets to) events is the SRV Spring Dance Show on April 30th and May 1st. Known for its inclusivity and performance-driven approach, our dance program has been around for over 35 years. Dancers of all levels will show their artistic expression and collaboration. This is an emotional event for our seniors because it is the last time they will be dancing on the SRV stage.

Last but not least, a huge congratulations to our Men’s and Women’s Varsity soccer teams for their remarkable success at the state level. Competing against top teams in California, both teams brought home CIF state titles. This accomplishment is truly a testament to the dedication of the players and coaches, as well as the strength of the program.

As you can see, spring is a busy season, and before long, we will be heading into the end of the year. Hopefully, everyone takes time to recharge before all of the excitement begins. Stay connected by following @srvhswolfpack and your class Instagrams (@srvclassof2026, 2027, 2028, or 2029), and visit srvhs.srvusd.net for the school calendar and latest updates.

And, as always, go Wolves!

DUDUM REAL ESTATE GROUP Hello SPRING

3

MONTE VISTA HIGH SCHOOL

By Dr. Kevin Ahern, Principal

It’s been an early spring at Monte Vista (MV). With the warmer weather, our seniors are already catching glimpses of their June graduation, while the rest of our student body is busy selecting courses for the 2025-26 school year. The transition from February into March is always a whirlwind, and this year has been no exception. Our students had an incredible run with the show All Shook Up. The production was everything a stage show should be -- fun, joyful, and a resounding success for the 80+ students involved. A huge thank you to Chris Connor, Rosalind Neisinger, Ryane Siegel, and Ed Cloyd for their tireless work with this exceptional team.

On March 3rd, we hosted the Mitzvah Project, providing students a vital opportunity to learn about the Holocaust and its enduring impact. While we hope to grow student attendance in the future, the audience present was deeply engaged. We are already planning for next year with the goal of ensuring every MV student experiences this program during their four years on campus.

On March 7th, MV’s Junior Class broke decades of tradition by moving Junior Prom from the Scottish Rite Temple to Lake Chalet on Lake Merritt. The new venue was spectacular and our students had an absolute blast. Thank you to our faculty chaperons and parent volunteers for making the night so memorable.

On March 9th, we officially welcomed the Class of 2030! Over 500 incoming students and families toured the campus, met with club representatives, and enjoyed performances from our Visual Arts and Performing Arts groups and Cheer teams. Special thanks to Kimberly Bryant from MV’s PTSA and Jessica Goryl from MV Counseling for organizing such a warm welcome for our future Mustangs.

Following a successful Southern California tour and the Golden Gate Treble Festival, the MV Choir concluded their month with their Spring Concert at Peace Lutheran Church.

MV’s Jazz Bands performed at the Santa Cruz Jazz Festival, followed by the Area Band Festival hosted by MV’s Drumline and Wind Ensemble.

Congratulations to our AP Art students who recently showcased their talent in a stunning exhibition at our on-campus Intersection Gallery.

In athletics, congratulations goes to MV Men’s Soccer for an awesome season. After defeating De La Salle for the EBAL Tournament Title, the team

HEALTH TIPS FOR TEENS ERGONOMICS

By Serena Hicks, MVHS sophomore

It’s not uncommon to experience discomfort in your back or neck after extended periods of studying or using your phone. The way we position ourselves while sitting, scrolling, or studying has a significant effect on our bodies, particularly after a long day. This is where we can apply ergonomic principles to help prevent injury and promote better health. But what is ergonomics? While it may be an uncommon word not seen everyday for many individuals, its idea is quite important to our daily lives, especially for teenagers or students. In simple terms, ergonomics means setting up your space so your body doesn’t suffer. While it may sacrifice comfort in the moment, it prevents many bodily issues later on. The habits you build now can either aid your body or slowly mess it up over time. There are many common issues teens face, including:

• Text Neck: A repetitive strain injury resulting from excessive, prolonged forward flexion of the neck when using smartphones or tablets.

• Slouching: A common posture characterized by a forward lean and rounded shoulders, often caused by prolonged sitting and weak muscles.

• Wrist Pain: Hours of typing, writing, or scrolling can easily strain your wrists, especially if your hands are in awkward positions.

• Prolonged Sitting: Sitting for too long without moving can lead to stiffness, poor circulation, and long-term health issues, including cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, musculoskeletal issues, and even cancer risk. These consequences can be caused by common situations like studying in bed, gaming for hours, or using a laptop while hunched over. But, there are easy fixes primarily having to do with the setup of your working environment.

fought their way to the NCS Finals and the CIF Regional Semi-Finals. We are incredibly proud of this group and our coaching staff led by Head Coach Beau Fisher.

A historic shout-out to Trevor Economos, who won the NCS Wrestling Championship in the 157-pound class. Trevor is MV’s first Men’s NCS Wrestling Champion since 1982.

Finally, we are thrilled to announce that Tennis Coach Rich Favreau has been named a recipient of the 2026 North Coast Section Honor Coach award.

With so much activity behind us, our students and staff are looking forward to a well-deserved Spring Break before the final push toward Commencement. Please continue to check the MV website for upcoming events as we celebrate the home stretch of the school year.

Go Mustangs!

For a full list of what’s happening on campus, visit mvhs.srvusd.net

SRV GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY

Join the San Ramon Valley Genealogical Society (SRVGS) for a free Zoom Meeting on Tuesday, April 21st at 10AM. Keynote speaker Kate Norton Kelley will present “Re-uniting Families with Lost Photos.”

Kate “the Photo Angel,” helps reunite lost pictures with relatives of the photographed. She loves to visit antique stores to thumb through their pictures in her quest to find those that are labeled so that she may return them to their family members. Learn from her about the process she used to accomplish this good deed. To attend, email president@srvgensoc. org for the Zoom link.

SRVGS was organized in 1985 to provide its members with resources, assistance, and educational opportunities that help them successfully research their ancestry. The group publishes a monthly newsletter, has a dedicated website, and offers monthly special interest group (SIG) meetings. The society also provides monthly general meetings featuring nationally known professional speakers. For questions, visit srvgensoc.org or email president@srvgensoc.org

For your desk and study setup, make sure to keep your screen at eye level and support your back using a chair or even a pillow. Keep your feet flat on the ground and check that your keyboard is at a comfortable height. In terms of phone habits, don’t put your phone on your lap and sacrifice your neck health. Instead, hold it closer to eye level and avoid staying bent over for long periods of time. To know how many breaks to take, an easy rule of thumb is the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This way, your eyes can adjust to faraway objects instead of a close phone screen, and you get to take a break from your screen or studying for a little bit. It’s also beneficial to stand up and stretch every 30-60 minutes to avoid any muscle strains and reset your body before going back to working.

Let’s do a quick posture check right now!

• Are your shoulders relaxed?

• Is your back straight and not curved forward?

• Is your screen too low? It should be at eye level.

• Are you leaning forward instead of sitting upright?

Learning about the consequences of poor ergonomics and engaging in these quick posture checks is incredibly beneficial to both your short-term and longterm health. Doing these can reduce pain, headaches, and improve your focus, while also lowering the risk of chronic back and neck issues in the future.

In conclusion, prioritizing ergonomics in your daily routines can make a significant difference in your overall health and well-being. By making small adjustments to your study habits and workspace, you can alleviate discomfort and reduce the risk of long-term issues associated with poor posture and prolonged screen time. The habits you develop as a teenager can have lasting effects on your body as you grow, so it’s important to check your posture regularly, take breaks from working, and create an environment that supports your health.

Serena Hicks is a sophomore at Monte Vista High School (MVHS) and Teen Health Advocate hoping to improve the health of her community one column at a time.

PRACTICING A MUSICAL INSTRUMENT WHEN

KIDS GET STUCK

By Christina David

If you find your child getting stuck in a rut with music practice, know you’re not alone. A consistent practice routine can be difficult. Results can take time (compared to other tasks kids do) and it requires many repetitions. It also involves making and embracing mistakes as the child learns to make little changes to improve. Our brains don’t typically enjoy making mistakes. Sometimes children love the idea of playing the instrument, but getting started and following through daily is difficult. While the practice rut can be challenging for plenty of kids, learning differences amplify the struggle. Let’s jump in with some ideas to help your child push through when they feel stuck.

Join in. It can be helpful for a parent to join them in learning an instrument. Consider if you may like to take lessons alongside your child. Or, if you already play, take some time to let your child see and hear you practice. Not only are you modeling what it takes to learn an instrument, but the atmosphere you’re creating with your music may draw them in.

Strewing can help. This is where you set things out as a visual cue, without making requests or demands. Pull the instrument out (if it’s small, like a violin) or open the piano lid and set out the sheet music to your child’s favorite piece. Leave it there as a nonverbal invitation when they walk by.

Consider the best time of day for practice. This can take some observation over time. When are they at their best for doing difficult tasks? In the morning before school? In the late afternoon, after a chance to decompress and have a snack? After dinner? If your child takes an ADHD stimulant or other support medication, they may be at their best for practice while it is still in their system.

Be an audience member. It feels lovely to have someone listen to and enjoy your music. Additionally, you’ll be offering the support of body doubling. This is where your presence gives the child an emotional boost to do something hard. You could fold laundry or type on your laptop while you sit in the room and enjoy the music.

Curate the environment. Think about what details can make the environment more conducive to music practice. Perhaps there’s a time of day when the family goes tech-free, and that creates a nice window when siblings are not distracting the kiddo from their music practice with a game of Fortnite in the background. Comfy slippers, a hot cocoa. With a portable instrument on a nice day, consider practicing outside in the shade or even at a park. Just make sure to keep the instrument safe when outdoors.

Help your child set goals, and create baby steps to reach them. The more your child is involved in this process, the more they’ll own it. A little goal could be to play for the grandparents when they visit next month. Or, create a monthly mini-recital for the family, with cookies and juice. When a child feels stuck, remind them that 5 minutes of practice would be great. Maybe they play 5 minutes now, and then they can practice more later in the day. The first minute of practice each day is the hardest to make happen.

Collaborate with your child and their teacher to add interest-based music. Does your child love Bach, Taylor Swift, or video game theme songs? It really helps if your child enjoys their music. That doesn’t mean they have to love every assignment, but it’s very motivating to play music you care about.

Do YOUR homework. After a particularly difficult or wonderful practice, take some notes. What went well? What didn’t go well? What was different about today that may have contributed to the success or struggle?

Looking to learn an instrument? Christina David is now accepting violin and viola students ages 4 to adult in a program that includes private lessons, ensemble, and recitals. The Danville Studio Strings culture emphasizes creativity, commitment, community, and inclusion. If that sounds like a possible fit for your family, please reach out! Visit www.christinadavid.com or Instagram: thechristinadavid. Email violin@christinadavid.com or call 832-270-6649. Advertorial

Open Monday - Thursday and the first two Saturdays of each month.

Meet Dr. Yvonne Hyland & Her Family

Dr. Hyland has been in private practice since 2000. She received a DDS degree from Baylor College of Dentistry in Dallas, Texas. Following dental school, she pursued a hospital-based General Practice Residency at the Veteran’s Medical Center in West Los Angeles for two years. Realizing this was not the end of her formal education, she completed a successful three-year post-graduate surgical residency in periodontics.

Dr. Hyland’s experience and professional skills excel in every aspect of dentistry from general cosmetic procedures to complex surgical cases. She has placed thousands of successful dental implants and is highly trained in all phases of gum disease therapy, tissue and bone grafting procedures, and wisdom teeth extraction.

Dr. Hyland understands the desire to provide the very best care for the entire family. As a resident of Alamo, she strives to meet community needs

In her

QUICK TRIPS By Linda Summers Pirkle

SIMPLE THINGS AT LITTLE FARM

“Animals are the easy part, it’s the people that cause all the bother.” That’s a line you’ll hear often in the beloved PBS series All Creatures Great and Small (2020–present), based on the books by James Herriot about a country vet’s life in the rural English countryside.

My son, who occasionally recommends shows to me, said, “It takes a couple of episodes, but I think you’ll like it.” I was hooked by the 10-minute mark of the first episode!

The scenery is the real star of the series: rolling hills dotted with cows and sheep, stone houses, winding roads, and ancient bridges. Filmed primarily in the Yorkshire Dales in Northern England, it brings the fictional village of Darrowby to life.

The period-piece begins in the late 1930s. War is a possibility, but life goes on in the Dales, where eccentric veterinarian Siegfried Farnon hires an assistant. Enter young Scottish James Herriot, a recent graduate of vet school. The two vets visit local farmers, some extremely cantankerous and slow to warm to new ideas.

Tristan (Callum Woodhouse) is my favorite character, the fun-loving younger brother. Anna Madeley is excellent as the low-key but always-in-charge Mrs. Hall, the housekeeper and so much more. She can cook, clean, mend, iron, all while figuring out solutions to big and small matters. We could all benefit from a Mrs. Hall in our lives.

In a Country Living interview, actor Samuel West, who plays Siegfried Farnon, said: “This has been a very complicated year for a lot of people, and I hope that All Creatures Great and Small is a return to a simpler life, a simpler piece of storytelling about things that matter: community, being kind to each other, being kind to animals (who can’t talk, of course), being respectful to the environment, welcoming strangers. These are lessons we need to think about, but also things we can all enjoy together on the sofa.”

The relatable characters are far from perfect. They have issues and everyday problems like we all do, yet each one is lovable in their own way. We watch them and see ourselves, our friends, our family. And while it’s not glitzy or fancy, it’s deeply satisfying.

Much like the show, Tilden Park’s Little Farm is not fancy, but it is lots of fun. In 1955, the Berkeley Kiwanis Club built this beloved Little Farm, and it continues to enchant people of all ages.

Recently, my three grands, my daughter, and I visited the iconic spot.

WRITING MATTERS By

Linda Hora

We saw huge, lounging pigs lolling in their pen, eager goats pressed against the wooden fence waiting for visitors to use the big wooden brushes to groom them, scampering turkeys, as well as sheep, rabbits, chickens, ducks, geese, and milking shorthorn cattle.

We spent quite a bit of time inside the museum. One display, featuring vintage VHS cases, holds actual pelts of various animals that most people would never get close to, let alone touch. We debated which was the softest (fox or mink), the prettiest (opossum or elk), and the most exotic (lynx or bobcat).

Tilden Park is part of the East Bay Regional Park District, which originally envisioned a park of 10,000 acres. Today, it encompasses over 120,000 acres, 65 parks, and 1,250 miles of trails. Through the decades, their mission has been to “preserve a priceless heritage of natural and cultural resources, open space, parks, and trails for future generations, and let an environmental ethic guide us in all we do.”

The Little Farm is located in the Tilden Nature Area at 1500 Central Park Drive, Berkeley. It’s free and open daily from 10AM to 4PM (with slightly longer hours during summer).

All Creatures Great and Small can be seen on Masterpiece PBS.

Linda Summers Pirkle is a travel writer and long-term Danville resident.

jennifer.lopez@fora.travel

foratravel.com/advisor/jennifer-lopez Instagram: @2ndwindtravel

Boutique Travel, Cruise, United States, Europe

I recently competed in a 5K. Usually moderately successful in competitions, I was feeling pretty confident in the weeks leading up to the race. My coach (okay, my older brother who’s really good and was going to be in the same race) had given me specific workouts to follow, scaffolded for my ability, and I did them – kind of. The race came and I was ready. The gun went off and so did I. I felt pretty darn good. I started to think about how I should graciously congratulate my brother when he came in after I did. Thinking about that brought me across the finish line and into my brother, who had clearly finished way ahead of me. I was stunned and he was smiling, “You beat your goal time! Nice.” I was so disappointed. An hour and twenty-seven minutes of my life had been spent going 3.1 miles. The race – and I – didn’t go the way I wanted, and I had to go over everything to figure out why

I discovered three whys. First, the initial confidence proved positive: it pushed aside my concerns and allowed me to attempt a race about which I was a little nervous. Confidence comes from within and builds over time, as small wins from the past create a solid foundation. Second, the workouts were definitely helpful and appropriate; my ignoring them wasn’t. To become better at anything always takes focus, practice, and patience. And lastly, it’s okay to get your feet wet before attempting to stand on the podium. My thinking I would be a top finisher, despite my lack of training, was maybe a bit misplaced. Recognizing one’s strengths while simultaneously recognizing the scope of the challenge is important. This scope sometimes gets lost when we use an umbrella term for identifying the challenge. “5Ks” and “Writing” are umbrella terms, which sometimes blur the specifics.

Writing is tough – for everyone – regardless of your accolades, credentials, or grades in school. I know. Remember? I was a high school English teacher for over two decades, and I’ve heard it all from the students: I’m not a good writer. I hate writing, so I don’t. I don’t know grammar. However, the most memorable line came from a parent introducing himself at Open House: “My son desperately needs help with his writing; he missed the day they taught it.” His joke reminds me of what so many believe: you have one chance to learn to write, and you either get it or don’t. Patently untrue. What I preached to my students, I’ll share with you: go with confidence; put in effort when you practice; writing is always a work in progress. Writing, that umbrella term we use, covers everything from a thank-you note to an email to a PhD dissertation. The specific writing you are attempting determines the process and the challenge for you. This won’t change. But your attitude can. The more confident you are that you do have something to say and you do want to say it, the more enjoyable the process for you and the better the product for your reader. If reading this column makes you want to practice, feel free to write to me with questions, queries, confusions, or concerns at thewritinggoal@gmail.com. If reading this column makes you want to swim a 5K, send me a note, and I’ll forward it to my brother

WIN WRITING

• Go with confidence.

• Practice and patience get results.

• Writing is always a work in progress.

THE FUTURE OF BLACKHAWK PLAZA AND THE COUNTY’S ROLE

By County Supervisor Candace Andersen

For the past 31 years I have lived just a few blocks from Blackhawk Plaza. It was always a place I loved to dine at with family and friends, watch movies at the theater, attend concerts, and shop! However, it has recently been struggling. Fountains and pools sit empty, the theater and many stores sit empty, and many tenants have left.

Recent discussions regarding lawsuits, foreclosures, and the potential redevelopment at Blackhawk Plaza have raised many questions within our community. To help keep everyone informed, we’ve put together Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the site’s status, including what is allowed to happen at the Plaza should someone wish to redevelop it. On my County webpage we regularly update these FAQs. Visit www.contracosta.ca.gov/10581/Blackhawk-Plaza

While there are ongoing financial and legal issues surrounding Blackhawk Plaza, it is important to note that the County is not a party to these private legal matters and does not have the legal standing to intervene in these lawsuits.

A significant development occurred on February 3, 2026, when an Orange County Superior Court Judge appointed a Receiver to oversee the property’s operations. This is a positive step toward stabilizing the Plaza. The Receiver’s team has already hired a new property management and security firm. They are meeting with tenants and currently evaluating the physical and financial condition of the property, assessing deferred maintenance (including ordering the parts needed to repair the fountains), and implementing steps to preserve and maximize the property’s value.

ATLANTIS POOLS

On March 18, 2026 the owners of Blackhawk Plaza, the Ramanujan Group LLC, filed for bankruptcy. It is assumed, but not certain, that the Bankruptcy Court will allow the Receiver to continue in its role.

The County has not received any applications to build housing or redevelop Blackhawk Plaza. It is highly unlikely that such an application would be filed while lawsuits are pending and the property remains under a court-appointed Receiver. If ownership changes or an application is filed, the County will provide immediate updates through the FAQs on my webpage.

Under Contra Costa’s General Plan, the land use designation for Blackhawk Plaza is Mixed-Use Medium Density. This classification allows for developments that are entirely commercial, entirely residential, or a mix of both. The allowed density is 30 to 75 residences per acre, plus any additional units allowed under State Density Bonus Law. While current zoning might differ, the General Plan is the superior document. By law, where there is an inconsistency, the General Plan prevails. Recent state legislation has also streamlined the process, often eliminating the need for rezoning for residential projects under certain circumstances. Any future proposal would be subject to today’s standards, which are significantly more stringent than those in effect when the Plaza was first constructed. New state laws may streamline or exempt certain residential projects from parts of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), though the specific level of review cannot be determined until a formal proposal is submitted. Under any circumstances, it would be a public process with opportunities for the public to weigh in.

Some individuals have expressed concerns about settlement agreements dictating the Level of Service (LOS) for traffic at the intersection of Camino Tassajara, Blackhawk, and Crow Canyon. While traffic impacts will be studied if there are any proposed changes to the plaza, this intersection is currently operating at a Level of Service “B” during both morning and afternoon peak commutes, indicating stable traffic flow. There have been changes in how we now evaluate the impact of traffic when property is being developed. In an effort to fight greenhouse gas emissions, State law now requires the measuring of “Vehicle Miles Traveled” (VMT) of cars rather than the LOS.

The Blackhawk Museum sits on its own parcel and is under separate ownership by the Behring Global Education Foundation. Any future developer would need to work with the Foundation to ensure adequate access to the Museum. The County could require this as part of a development agreement, and existing legal agreements between the property owners and the Foundation would likely mandate this access regardless of redevelopment.

My office is here to serve the residents of Contra Costa County District 2, which includes Alamo, Blackhawk, Canyon, Danville, Diablo, Lafayette, Moraga, Orinda, Rossmoor, San Ramon, Tassajara Valley, and parts of un-incorporated Walnut Creek. Please contact us if we can provide you with additional information on this topic or on other County issues. I can be reached at SupervisorAndersen@bos. cccounty.us or 925-655-2300.

VALLEY VIGNETTE By Beverly Lane

THE PIONEERING WOOD FAMILY

After California’s Gold Rush, many immigrants to the Sierras discovered the state’s real gold: land. One such family was Charles and Cynthia Wood who left gold country and moved to Danville’s Sycamore Valley in 1862. They and their descendants were leaders in the community, promoting agricultural improvements, building a large ranch, writing about local history and teaching in Danville schools. Cynthia and Charles were married in 1857 and had four children: Louis, Elizabeth (Libbie), Charles J. and Charlotte.

They established the Woodside Farm (later called Wood Ranch). It became a 1,200 acre diversified ranch in Sycamore Valley, typical of the times, on which they grew hay and grain, planted orchards, produced cream, and grazed cattle and sheep. The headquarters still exists today on Camino Tassajara.

All of the family was active in Danville Grange, No. 85, Patrons of Husbandry. This fraternal order for farmers and ranchers welcomed both men and women members. When the Danville Grange was founded in 1873, Charles Wood became the first Worthy Master; he and Cynthia were charter members. The Grange shared ways to improve crops, opposed high railroad charges, worked to eliminate ground squirrels and built a hall in 1874 which became the center of social life in the San Ramon Valley. Both Charles J. and Libbie were Worthy Masters and Charlotte was a member for 80 years.

Charles was a Justice of the Peace, an elected Assemblyman (1975-6) and, in his later years, served as County Deputy Assessor. He was well known for his promotion of good farming techniques and good citizenship and was a Grange Lecturer throughout the East Bay.

One memorable event occurred in 1887 when Charles had gone to San Francisco and son Louis, was returning from Davis with the grain header. A fire burned their entire grain crop and all of their pasture. Libbie and Charlotte desperately soaked burlap grain sacks in the water troughs and hauled them to the field where the men tried to extinguish the flames by beating at them with the wet bags. Charlotte wrote: “Imagine how they felt. When they left the wheat and barley were waving in the morning breeze. When they returned three black hills met their gaze instead of the six-foot tall waving grain.” They expected 3,000 sacks of grain and harvested only 30. There was no insurance. A surprise Donation Party was arranged by Grange friends; some brought wagon loads of wheat and barley for seed and others gave pasture and hay for the livestock. To their dying days, the generosity of those neighbors overwhelmed the Wood family. Without that help from friends, the Wood Ranch would have ended in 1887.

Charles J. Wood was active in bringing the first high school to the Valley (with wife Kate) and helped start the Alameda-Contra Costa Cattlemen’s Association. He is credited with bringing the first black Angus cattle to the valley during the thirties. Charles J. married Kate Howard, a teacher and the mother of their three boys, Howard, George, and Waldo. He and son George were prominent advocates to make Mount Diablo a state park. The park’s 1931 dedication was a result. Young George Wood tirelessly attended pro-park meetings, led hikes on the mountain and helped survey land to facilitate the purchase by the state of California.

A print shop building at the ranch headquarters was begun by cousin Joe White in the 1880s. White taught the three boys to set type and read upside down and backwards and operate the press when the oldest boy, Howard, was only 12. George later edited and produced the Danville Grange Herald which promoted the state park and tried to save the electric trolley in 1924.

Charlotte Wood was both a student and teacher at the Sycamore Grammar School, not far from the Woodside headquarters. She taught there from 1890-1921. She was also a poet and a chronicler of valley and Woodside Farm history. Her history, Rambling Reminiscences of The Charles Wood Family and Their “Woodside Farm” Home, makes ranch life come alive. When Charlotte Wood Elementary School was opened in 1950 and named for her, George’s wife Maevis became the principal. Maevis Wood, married to Charlotte’s nephew George, was the first principal at Charlotte Wood and Montair Grammar Schools.

Howard Wood was an accomplished engineer who helped design and construct the Carquinez and Bay Bridges. The family always called the Bay Bridge “Howard’s bridge.”

George’s son Don (1934-2023) ran the Wood Ranch for many years and was a keen agricultural historian who worked on several exhibits at the Museum of the San Ramon Valley. He wrote an essay on valley agriculture modestly titled Random Recollections of Things I’ve Seen or Been Told and a family book called Wood Ranch Buildings: What I Know or Have Been Told. While most of the ranch is now Sycamore Valley Regional Open Space and suburban homes, the 17-acre Wood Ranch headquarters is still in place. Included is the oldest building in the valley, the Mendenhall-Wood house (1853), a truck and livestock scale, and many ranch buildings with interesting stories of their own. In so many ways, the Wood family’s history is also San Ramon Valley’s history.

Sources: Virgie V. Jones, Historical Persons and Places…in SRV, pp. 16-21; Munro-Fraser, History of Contra Costa County, 1882, pp. 143-144, 249-250, 253, 429, 443, 704-705; Charlotte Wood, Rambling Reminiscences of The Charles Wood Family and Their “Woodside Farm” Home, August 1951; Don Wood, Wood Ranch Buildings: What I Know or Have Been Told and personal communication.

Kitten & Cat Adoptions

All cats are fixed, tested, vaccinated, & microchipped for indoor placement.

Saturdays 11 AM -3 PM & by appointment Petco ~ 2005 Crow Canyon Pl., San Ramon Learn more at

FCF helps facilitate adoptions, TNR, and feline rescue work in our local communities. Help us help them.

To donate to our efforts, scan QR code or text FCFDONATE to 53555.

CALIFORNIA HOMEOWNER INSURANCE NEWS UPDATE

By William W. “Bill”

White,

Allstate Insurance

IS YOUR HOME INSURANCE BEING NON-RENEWED?

Are you or someone you know having trouble finding a policy? Many insurance companies are leaving California due to catastrophes, market saturation, and inflation. Others are offering a renewal, but the price is very high and the main coverage for fire is being excluded. WHERE DO YOU GO TO FIND A POLICY & WHAT ARE YOUR OPTIONS?

Many people are turning to the California Fair Plan for fire coverage, but then they also have to buy a companion, “wrap policy” to get personal liability protection, and other coverages not available with the Fair Plan policy. That is a costly way to buy insurance, and there can be gaps in coverage that put you at risk with two different companies handling the risk.

WE

HAVE SOLUTIONS FOR HIGH WILDFIRE AREAS!

Our Agency offers a single policy with Allstate Insurance Company that allows for high wildfire areas. We are helping many families throughout the State of California protect their homes.

The William White Insurance Agency is located at 472 Hartz Avenue in Danville. To learn more or get a quote, call us at 925-820-7220.

CA Insurance Agent #0533649

Chromatica continued from page 6

Advertorial

some remarkable pieces sung in English, Latin, German, and Spanish to illustrate the enduring power of great choral music. Some compositions will include stringed accompaniment.

Poet Alfred Lord Tennyson wrote in an 1833 poem: “There is sweet music here,” to celebrate the emotional impact of music. In a setting composed by Zachary Moore, it frames Chromatica’s spring concerts. Brahms, Schubert, and Schumann were all masters of vocal music, and the concerts include Brahms Abendlied, Schubert’s An Die Musik, and Schumann’s Widmung. Mozart’s Sanctus from his Requiem, and Bruckner’s Locus Iste add more classical weight.

There are two Alleluias – one by Buxtehude and one more modern by Randall Thompson. Contemporary pieces by Randall Stroope (the lovely Amor de mi Alma), two pieces by Ola Gjeilo, and Dan Forrest’s The Sun Never Says add a modern emphasis to the concerts.

“It has always been Chromatica’s goal to identify and perform the best of choral music. These concerts show the extraordinary depth and beauty of choral writing across several centuries. Performing these pieces is both a privilege and a joy – and I’m sure our audience will love them” said David Huff, founding artistic director.

Concert tickets: Tickets are $30 for adults, $10 for students, and children 10 and under are admitted free. For concert tickets and to find out more about Chromatica, visit www.chromaticachorale.org. Tickets for all concerts are also available at the door. For a more personal look you can find Chromatica on Instagram (@chromaticachorale) or at Chromatica on Facebook.

About Chromatica: Chromatica Chorale was founded in 2011 and now includes 32 men and women singers. It has performed 26 prior series of ticketed concerts in the East Bay, attracting large and enthusiastic audiences. Led by David Huff, an outstanding director and operatic tenor who has sung both in New York and San Francisco and accompanied by the exceptional pianist and assistant director, Julie Rieth, it seeks to perform challenging pieces at a high level of professionalism.

FREE GENEALOGY RESEARCH ASSISTANCE

Are you looking for your ancestors? Do you want to do a little genealogy research? Could you use some help or direction?

Bring your questions to the Danville Library, located at 400 Front Street, Danville on Tuesday, April 14th from 10am-1pm. Genealogy docents from the San Ramon Valley Genealogical Society will be available to help you take your research further with print resources from the library’s genealogy collection or online material.

The free genealogy research assistance is provided by the San Ramon Valley Genealogical Society in partnership with the Danville Library. For questions, call 925-314-3750 or visit srvgensoc.org

DOG-FRIENDLY DANVILLE

EXPLORE TOWN WITH YOUR PUP

Danville is officially rolling out the welcome mat for four-legged visitors with the launch of Dog-Friendly Danville—a new campaign celebrating all the ways you can enjoy the Town with your pup by your side. From patios and shops to parks and social media spotlights, Danville is a place where dogs are more than welcome—they’re part of the community.

FIND DOG-FRIENDLY BUSINESSES WITH DISCOVER DANVILLE

As part of the Dog-Friendly Danville campaign, residents and visitors can now easily find a growing list of dog-friendly businesses—primarily restaurants and retail shops—right in the Discover Danville app. Whether you’re planning a coffee stop, lunch outing, or a little shopping with your dog in tow, the app helps you discover places that welcome well-behaved pups. Explore the app and start planning your outing at danville.ca.gov/discoverdanville

STROLL, SIP, AND SIT (STAY!)

Downtown Danville is perfect for a walk with your dog, especially when so many patios invite pups to relax alongside their people. You might even notice water bowls out front or treats waiting behind the counter—small touches that make a big difference for dog lovers.

CANINE CORRAL REOPENS FOR SPRING

Another sure sign of spring? The reopening of the Canine Corral at Hap Magee Ranch Park. After the annual winter moratorium, the dog park is ready to welcome wagging tails once again. During the off-season, Town maintenance crews take advantage of the closure to reseed and nurture the lawn, improve turf health, and allow the grass to recover from heavy use. This behind-the-scenes care helps ensure a greener, safer, and more enjoyable space for dogs to run and socialize all season long.

YOUR DOG COULD BE OUR NEXT #FIDOFRIDAY STAR

Dog-Friendly Danville also lives online! Want to show off your pup? Tag us in your photos or email a picture to teamdanville@danville.ca.gov for a chance to be featured on social media as a #FidoFriday star. Your furry friend could be the next local celebrity stealing hearts across Town.

Whether your dog loves to explore Downtown, run free at the dog park, or simply people-watch from a shady patio, Dog-Friendly Danville celebrates all the ways you can enjoy life together. Grab the leash and see where Danville takes you this spring.

COMMISSION RECRUITMENT

The Danville Town Council is soliciting applicants for 10 adult commissioners and 2 student positions. Applications are due Thursday, May 7th at 4PM. Interviews will be held the morning of June 9th and the afternoon of June 16th. Terms begin July 1st .

Volunteer positions on the Town of Danville’s boards, commissions, and committees are open to Danville residents who are interested in serving their community. Interested individuals must submit a completed application by the stated deadline to be considered. Qualified applicants may be invited to participate in interviews, after which appointments are made in accordance with the Town’s established process.

If you are a resident of Danville and are interested in serving the Town in a volunteer capacity, please sign up to be notified when there are openings.

VOLUNTEER POSITIONS & APPLICATIONS

Current volunteer opportunities are listed below by commission or committee. Applications for Town commissions and committees are accepted on an ongoing basis.

Bicycle Advisory Commission: 3 regular positions for a 4-year term; 1 position for high school-aged resident for a 2-year term.

Parks, Recreation and Arts Commission: 4 regular positions for a 4-year term. Heritage Resource Commission: 1 position for a licensed architect for a 4-year term.

Contra Costa County Library Commission: 1 regular and 1 alternate position for 2-year terms.

County Connection Citizen Advisory Committee: 1 Danville Representative for a 3-year term.

Youth Poet: 1 position; high school-aged; 2-year term - Application

For additional information or assistance,visit danville.ca.gov/284/Commission-Recruitment or email cityclerk@danville.ca.gov or call 925-314-3401.

POSTCARDS FROM THE HEDGE

By Jill Appenzeller

We gardeners are by nature a generous lot. We share plants, wisdom, and, of course, our opinions. Usually strongly held. Not always correct, of course. Gardeners remind me of a gentleman friend who said his family motto was “Often wrong, but never in doubt.” Sounds even better in Latin. I may adopt it. What would your family motto be?

My garden is full of passed along plants. The white mulberry from Maryam, a lovely cupped yellow rose with an orange reverse with no name that is stumping rosarians. Ferns from her garden in Carmel.

A white peach she grew from seed. It’s blooming now, darker pink than Ian’s peach, the fruit sweeter but less acid.

Persimmons and pomegranates, plums and peaches. Figs and ferns. She shared them all, and I shared back blood oranges and basil, tomato seedlings and jars of marmalade. And dinner. She would say, “Come for dinner Saturday. At five thirty. And bring clam chowder for eight.” The sourdough and salad were my idea.

Years ago, when her children were small and one of her raised beds was still a sandbox, my friend Cathy gave me a chunk of lemongrass she had started from the produce department. I cook with it, I slice it into sticks for chicken kebabs, I brush it when I walk by to release the sharp smell, I have divided it and planted it in the corners of a raised bed where it waves in the wind. And I share it.

Cathy also introduced me to the aptly named Calandrina spectabilis. It is spectacular, an unassuming low grey succulent that erupts with tall wands of brilliant cerise flowers in late spring and early summer. Easy to grow, easy to propagate from cuttings, loves a sunny spot, not a water hog. Perfect for this climate, and it blooms for several months, the stalks growing longer and flowers opening at the tips of the wands. It reminds me of Cathy and her charming garden.

Last week I planted a calla with spotted leaves and tall white flowers, shared,

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of course. The flowers are rumored be more than three feet tall. Stay tuned. Callas like their own vase. They don’t play well with others, in a vase with dahlias they look out of place. But, one tall vase with taller callas is spectacular. They were a favorite of Eleanor who taught me to garden, and I hope they settle in and are happy here.

My mother hated cut flowers. I love them - for a few days. I will change the water, but I will not dismantle a vase of flowers just to save the few flowers that haven’t died.

My friends fill their houses with cut flowers. Home grown, from Trader Joe’s, from Safeway, perhaps a few purloined on a walk. An after dark walk. Purloined is so much more civilized than stolen, don’t you think?

A garden is a collection of memories. The rosemary from a cutting, now grown taller than you are. The Bearss lime a man I have come to know through this paper, grew from cuttings taken from a tree hanging over a fence.

The worst thing about moving is leaving your garden behind. Packing, unpacking, deciding what moves and what is given away, parting with memories and treasures, all pale in the face of leaving a tree that is about to leaf out. A citrus you raised from a twig.

When Susan was planting her new garden, she would come and visit with a cardboard box. Only one box, for she did not want to take more than she could plant before they became distressed. So sensible, and her garden is lovely, full of hellebores and ferns, aeoniums and ipheion. All her transplants are thriving, her aeoniums taller than she is when they bloom. Mine, alas, are in too much shade and do not bloom. I may ask to cut some, perhaps to put in a vase with some callas?

Mark, who has moved to Chicago (don’t ask), starts hundreds of tomatoes from seed under lights in his basement. He starts when it’s dark and the snowstorms are raging. I plant tomatoes in March, he plants in May. Late May. Or June. He provides the entire neighborhood with tomato plants, and as he grows more than fifty varieties himself, he also provides the neighborhood with tomatoes. I wish he still lived next door, and I am glad he does not have the same passion for zucchini.

You can reach me via the editor at editor@yourmonthlypaper.com or visit my Instagram @jillappenzeller.

Jill Appenzeller has lived and gardened in Danville for longer than she cares to admit.

Trinity Center support provides the tools to help them gain, and keep, steady housing.

What exactly does this process look like, and what does it take? First, you have to understand how those who seek assistance at Trinity Center are regarded. Paida Ndemera, Executive Director of Trinity Center, notes that those who come in are called members. Everyone is treated with the utmost dignity and respect—Paida shared that one thing to remember about homelessness is that it can happen to anyone.

An average first-time member may come in after sleeping outside and hearing that Trinity Center can provide a meal and place to clean up during the day. After passing through a metal detector, all first-time members speak to a case manager who will take basic details from the member about their background and needs and share with them what Trinity Center programs are available.

After that, the member can toss their clothes and blankets in the washing machine and pick out fresh clothes from the Trinity Center closet to put on after they take a hot shower. Then they can enjoy a warm meal, breakfast and/or lunch, while their belongings are washed. Depending on the day, members can also join in various group activities, like bingo, use the computer and internet to search jobs or fill out necessary forms online, or get help from the Contra Costa Medical Van, which is onsite one day a week, providing medical attention and helping members register for Medi-Cal.

A returning member might come in for an appointment with their assigned case manager to provide updates and work towards goals that will help them find a job, like obtaining their state-issued ID card or applying for jobs. They may have an appointment for one-on-one or group substance use therapy. Trinity Center also helps with family reunification, so a member may come in to get transportation to help them get out of the area and back to their family for support.

In the winter months, members may come in to take advantage of Trinity’s seasonal evening program. The program offers a warm meal, case management, and a warm, dry place for members to sleep during winter months. Paida noted that this season Trinity has been close to reaching capacity some nights and that the program ends for the season April 15.

What sets Trinity Center apart from many programs that offer food or shelter is the multi-pronged approach to supporting members into self-sufficiency. This can be a process that can take years depending on the individual case. Paida notes, “The reality is that most people end up being homeless due to behavioral or mental health issues, but also the reverse is true that being unhoused can cause depression and psychosis, especially with substance use.”

Some members may need support to get their physical or mental health on track and treat substance use issues before they can get into job training. Once a member is ready, Trinity Center’s workforce development program is unique in that they partner with organizations to provide 90-day internships for members to gain work experience. This creates on the job training for members so they can build a resume and gain employment.

One thing Paida wants everyone to understand is that the vast majority of unhoused people do not want to live on the streets and would love to work. In fact, many of them do work, but do not make enough to pay rent and all of their bills. Lack of affordable housing is one major issue causing homelessness to skyrocket.

According to the Contra Costa County website, “In Contra Costa County, renters need to earn $42.69 per hour to afford the average monthly asking rent

PREPARING FOR FIRE

By Joe Lamb, Brende & Lamb Tree and Shrub Care

In the spring and early summer, our landscape grows lush, beautiful—and out of control. Our Mediterranean climate is blessed by sufficient winter rains to make plants grow, but our dry summers, and our even drier autumns, can make that new growth a fire hazard. In the greater Bay Area, we live surrounded by an ecosystem that has been shaped over the last 10,000 years by frequent wildfires. Because these woodland fires are inevitable, landscape trees, even healthy ones, require occasional pruning to prevent them from becoming fire ladders––bridges of flammable material that could carry flames from a woodland fire to your home.

The threat posed by fires in the greater Bay Area is real and significant. The Oakland/Berkeley Hills fire of 1991 caused $1.7 billion in property damage and was the nation’s worst urban fire since the San Francisco fire of 1906. Those numbers have been dwarfed by the LA fires, where costs to insurance companies are expected to top $50 billion. Of course, the financial costs to homeowners will greatly exceed the costs to insurance companies, and the real costs, which can’t be calculated in money alone, are astronomical.

In the Berkeley Hills fire, as in the LA fires, failure to properly maintain landscape trees and shrubs played a significant role in allowing that fire to grow, intensify, and move. The Comprehensive Overview of the Berkeley/Oakland Hills Fire recommends that the risk of wildfire can be reduced by proper care of landscape plants:

• Break up fire ladders.

• Limb trees back from structures.

• Reduce flammable biomass by thinning crowns.

• Remove dead trees and shrubs from the landscape.

• Remove deadwood from live trees and shrubs.

Of course, our knowledge of fire ecology has greatly increased since 1991. CalFire works hard to keep up with the ever-evolving fire landscape. Climate change has changed several of the key variables in urban wildfires, most notably seesaw precipitation (alternating periods of wet, causing increased plant growth, and drought, causing increasingly flammable plants) and changes in wind, in both direction and intensity. Blowing embers have been the main propagators of recent fires. For updates on increasing the fire safety of your landscape, visit www.fire.ca.gov/dspace

Two of their key recommendations are:

1) Remove all dead and dying plants, weeds, and debris (leaves, needles, etc.) from your roof, gutter, deck, porch, stairways, and any areas under your home.

2) Remove all branches within 10 feet of any chimney or stovepipe outlet.

Cleaning of windows, gutters, and solar panels, power washing of driveways and courtyards. Licensed and insured. 510-331-3988

rangelwindows@yahoo.com

Many of the older recommendations are still valid. Breaking up fire ladders helps prevent a fire from moving easily from the woods or from your neighbor’s property to your house. To break up fire ladders, increase the space between plants, both vertically and horizontally. In the 1991 fire, blowing bands of flammable material landed on ground plants, and, if there was sufficient dry matter, caught the ground cover on fire. The fire burned along the ground plants horizontally for as long as it found material to burn. If it encountered trees with low branches, the fire would move vertically from the ground up into the crown of the tree. If those burning trees were close to a house, they would set the house on fire. If their crowns touched the crowns of other trees, the fire spread from crown to crown.

The fire hazard of landscape plants is greatly reduced IF properly maintained. “Properly maintained” includes watering the plant enough so that it’s sufficiently wet inside that it won’t catch fire from just an ember. The moisture content of a plant (MC) is one of the most critical factors affecting its ignitability. Any plant, even one with high moisture content, will burn if the fire gets hot enough, but a high moisture content plant resists fire.

Reducing biomass, regardless of the plant’s ignitability, helps fire personnel contain fires because the less biomass there is, the less there is to protect, or to put out if the plants catch fire. However, proper maintenance does not mean sacrificing a natural, woodland aesthetic. If the limbing up, dead-wooding, and crown thinning are done by a craftsman with a sensitivity to plant aesthetics, then the trees will look natural, even though they may have had 30% of their biomass removed. Knowing how to identify potential hazards is important; but it is also important to know how to reduce those hazards in a manner that keeps your property looking natural, and that does not sacrifice important screening plants. Brende & Lamb specializes in balancing the conflicting needs for privacy, fire safety, tree health, and landscape aesthetics. It is possible to improve the fire safety of your property while promoting the health and beauty of your plants.

Tree care is a craft requiring study and experience. Our trimmers are master craftsmen who understand that a well-pruned tree should not only be safer and healthier, but it should also look beautiful as well. At Brende & Lamb we take great pride in both the science and the art of pruning.

If your trees need a little TLC, call us at 510-486-8733 for a free estimate. Additionally, visit www.brendelamb.com, to see before-and-after pictures, client testimonials, and work in your neighborhood. Advertorial

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

Now more than ever, many of our neighbors cannot afford to feed and clothe themselves or their families. Volunteer opportunities for individuals, families, and groups to serve the community are available at White Pony Express (WPE).

WPE, founded in 2013 and now headquartered in Concord, is a nonprofit that rescues fresh surplus food from supermarkets, restaurants, and farmers markets. This food is then delivered free to organizations that feed the hungry free of charge.

Hundreds of volunteers make WPE possible. If you are interested in volunteering, please visit whiteponyexpress.org/volunteer or call Mandy Nakaya, Volunteer Services Coordinator, at 925-818-6361 or email Mandy@ whiteponyexpress.org

VETERAN SERVICES BRING THE ‘OFFICE’ TO YOU

The Contra Costa County Veterans Services Office offers a virtual office space. The virtual Veterans Office can give you close to an in-person experience.

Veterans can learn about and apply for benefits, access VA health care, receive referrals for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder therapy, and much more. Visit the office website at www.contracosta.ca.gov/vets during open office hours for one-on-one assistance. Hours of operation are Mondays through Thursdays from 9 am to noon and 1 pm to 4 pm, and on Fridays 9 am to noon.

For more information, call the Veteran Services Office at 925-313-1481.

ALAMO IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION (AIA)

By Roger Smith, President

PROTECT YOURSELF AND NEIGHBORHOOD

Crime continues to impact more citizens. We need to be better prepared to protect ourselves and our neighbors.

On Wednesday, April 22nd from 6-6:45PM join us for a Zoom meeting to meet Farah Ali, our Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Specialist for the Neighborhood Watch program. Learn about the Crime Prevention Triangle, recognizing suspicious activity, reporting a crime, preventing mailbox and package theft, and Operation I.D. Visit www. AlamoCA.org for the Zoom access code.

You can also contact CSU@so.cccounty.us, to reach the specialist in your area for crime prevention information, Neighborhood Watch guidance, and community events.

Provide crime tips by using any of the following methods: Office of the Sheriff Investigation Division - 925-313-2600; Office of the Sheriff Dispatch - 925-646-2441; Anonymous Voice Message - 866-846-3592; Email - tips@ so.cccounty.us. As a reminder, do not call 911 unless you have an emergency or life-threatening situation.

NEIGHBORHOOD FLOCK CAMERAS

FlockOS is the first public safety operating system that powers 1,400 cities to capture objective evidence, make it actionable with machine learning, and deliver it directly into the hands that stop crime.

Flock Safety’s license plate reading cameras provide 24/7 monitoring for every home, business, and neighborhood. It helps protect against property crime, violent crime, stolen vehicles, and more.

Flock cameras have an intentionally narrow field of view capable of capturing about one and a half lanes of traffic. Flock cameras can wake up and start taking pictures in less than a tenth of a second, whereas a doorbell camera is optimized for surveillance. Its settings are optimized for low light, and the shutter speed is slower.

Today, Alamo has 12 strategically placed cameras in the public right of ways as a deterrent to crime. In addition, several Alamo HOAs and neighborhoods (including my own) have stepped up to install these cameras to bring the total close to 20 in and throughout Alamo.

Visit these websites to learn more: www.flocksafety.com/solutions/neighborhood-security, and www.securityinformed.com

ALAMO FARMER’S MARKET

- FRESH FRUITS & VEGETABLES

Please join us and your neighbors in experiencing the live music at the Alamo Farmers Market, pick up some beautiful produce, ready-made food, and other goods, and take a moment to pause and reflect upon the bountiful relationship agriculture provides for us. Spring is in the air! We are excited for the return of several vendors including Bay Area Harvest, Barbara the Tea Lady, and Resendiz Family Farm as well as several new vendors including Humbly Caffeinated Coffee Co., Thatcher’s Gourmet Popcorn, and Bocobites Gourmet French Cuisine.Our vendors welcome the opportunity to discuss their work and produce with you.

The Market is sponsored by AIA and is open rain or shine on Sundays from 9AM – 2PM in Alamo Plaza, off of Danville Blvd., near Bank of America. Please look for updated information about the Market on nextdoor.com

CELEBRATING OVER 70 YEARS OF SERVICE TO THE ALAMO COMMUNITY

Alamo is a special community that all of our residents can be justifiably proud to call home.

Please watch your mailbox in May for your upcoming AIA 2026 Annual Report, ballot, and membership form. Visit www.AlamoCA.org for information.

TECHNOLOGY MATTERS

By Evan Corstorphine, Portable CIO

ARE YOU BITLOCKERED?

Recently, a client called me in a panic. She had rebooted her computer and it came back up asking for a BitLocker recovery key. She had no idea what BitLocker was, had never intentionally set it up, and the machine was not backed up. On it, all of her business data. Fortunately, she remembered her Microsoft account credentials. We logged in, found the recovery key Microsoft had automatically stored there, entered it, and got her back into her system. The first thing we did after that was to go into Windows Security Settings and turn BitLocker off.

Not everyone gets that lucky ending.

BitLocker is Windows built-in drive encryption. Everything on your hard drive gets scrambled, and without the right 48-digit key, the data is completely unreadable. The intent is legitimate: if someone steals your laptop, they cannot pull the drive and read your files. For a portable computer that travels through airports and coffee shops, encryption is a reasonable default. But Microsoft is applying this to everything, including the desktop computer sitting on your desk at home that has not moved in six years.

The threat model that justifies full-drive encryption simply does not exist for most home desktops. Yet, here we are.

Making things worse, it does not just happen once. Microsoft can re-enable BitLocker following major Windows feature updates. So even if you found and disabled it a year ago, you may want to check again.

When it locks you out and you do not have the key, Microsoft cannot help you. That is the design. There is no support escalation, no backdoor, no recovery path. The data is gone.

Here is what to do. Search for “Manage BitLocker” in the Start menu and open it. If it shows encryption is on, go to account.microsoft.com, navigate to Devices, and find your BitLocker recovery keys. Write that key down and store it somewhere you can actually find it in an emergency.

Some people ask about setting up a local account to sidestep this entirely. On Windows Pro, you can do this during setup by choosing “domain join instead,” which lets you create a local account without a Microsoft login. However, most retail computers sold to home users run Windows Home, which requires a Microsoft account during setup. There is no equivalent workaround. For most people, the realistic answer is not avoidance, it is education. Understand that your Microsoft account credentials are now critical infrastructure for your computer. Keep them somewhere safe.

The other answer, and this applies to everyone, is backup your data. If my client’s machine had been properly backed up, the BitLocker situation becomes a nuisance rather than a catastrophe. Rebuild the computer, restore from backup, move on. We recommend iDrive for home and small business users, and have for years. A solid backup does not prevent BitLocker from locking your drive, but it absolutely limits the damage.

Microsoft’s instinct to encrypt by default is not wrong. What is wrong is doing it silently, without ensuring users understand what it means or where their recovery key is stored. Until Microsoft figures that out, consider this your warning.

Questions? Call Portable CIO at 925-552-7953 or email

info@pcioit.com

Advertorial

CAN YOU GIVE RIDES TO SENIORS & VETERANS, OR DO YOU NEED A RIDE?

Are you an ambulatory senior or veteran who needs a ride to medical appointments, the grocery story, or other essential services? Or, are you aged 25-75 and able to volunteer just three hours a month to help provide a ride?

Mobility Matters (MM) is a nonprofit agency that has been serving otherwise homebound residents trying to age in place in Contra Costa County since 2004. MM provides free, door-through-door, one-on-one, escorted rides for seniors and disabled veterans with volunteer driver programs, and they match riders to accessible transportation providers through their Transportation Information and Referrals Helpline.

If you need a ride, call 925-284-6161. For volunteer opportunities, call 925-284-2215. For more details, visit www.mobilitymatterscc.com

AI & SMALL BUSINESSES IN 2026

ADAPT OR BE LEFT BEHIND

By Jeremy Davis, CloudMinders

Artificial intelligence is no longer a futuristic concept reserved for Silicon Valley. In 2026, it is quickly becoming one of the most important tools small and medium-sized businesses can adopt to remain competitive. And while some business owners are still debating whether AI matters, the truth is simple: the companies that learn how to use it will move faster, operate more efficiently, and outperform the ones that do not.

Small businesses often assume that new technologies benefit large corporations first. Historically, that was true. Enterprise companies had the budgets and research teams needed to experiment with emerging technology. But AI is different. Many of the most powerful AI tools today are inexpensive, easy to use, and available to anyone with an internet connection. In fact, small businesses may be in the best position to benefit because they can implement new tools quickly without navigating layers of corporate bureaucracy.

Think about the daily work that consumes time in most businesses: responding to routine emails, drafting marketing content, summarizing reports, researching answers to customer questions, or organizing internal information. These tasks are necessary, but they rarely create direct value for the business. AI can now handle much of this work in seconds. That means employees can spend less time on repetitive tasks and more time focusing on strategy, relationships, and growth.

This shift is what I like to call a “force multiplier.” When used correctly, AI allows a small team to perform at the level of a much larger organization. A marketing manager can generate content ideas in minutes instead of hours. A sales team can analyze customer data faster than ever before. Customer support can respond more quickly with AI-assisted answers to common questions.

The result is not just efficiency. It is leverage.

Some people still worry that AI will replace workers entirely. While there will certainly be changes in how work is done, most businesses are not using AI to eliminate people. They are using it to help their teams perform better. In many cases, employees actually welcome AI tools because they remove tedious work that nobody enjoys doing in the first place.

The bigger risk right now is not that AI will replace your employees. The bigger risk is that a competitor will learn how to use AI before you do. Across industries, early adopters are already gaining an advantage. Businesses that experiment with AI are producing marketing campaigns faster, analyzing data more effectively, and delivering better customer experiences. They are also discovering entirely new ways to operate that were not possible even a few years ago.

Meanwhile, businesses that ignore AI are slowly falling behind.

This is not about chasing hype or adopting technology simply because it is new. The goal is not to replace good judgment with automation. The goal is to give business owners and their teams better tools so they can make smarter decisions and operate more efficiently

Of course, there are important considerations. Businesses must think carefully about how they protect sensitive data, how employees use AI responsibly, and how human oversight remains part of critical decisions. AI should be implemented thoughtfully, not recklessly.

But avoiding AI entirely is not a strategy. It is a gamble.

For small businesses in our community, the opportunity is enormous. Artificial intelligence levels the playing field in ways we have never seen before. A small company with the right tools can compete with organizations that once seemed untouchable.

The businesses that thrive over the next decade will be the ones that experiment, learn quickly, and build AI into the way they work every day. They will treat AI not as a novelty but as a core business capability.

In other words, the question is no longer whether AI will impact your business.

The question is whether you will lead that change—or be forced to catch up later.

Jeremy Davis is a technology strategist who helps businesses use cybersecurity, modern IT, and artificial intelligence as engines of growth. As founder and president of CloudMinders, he advises organizations on turning complex technology challenges into lasting competitive advantages. To learn more, email info@cloudminders.com, visit www.CloudMinders. com, or call 925-269-9966. Advertorial

BIKES & VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!

Since 2002, Adopt a Family Bikes (AAFB) has refurbished and donated thousands of bikes to adults and youth in need through Bay Area nonprofits. Since August, well over 500 bikes have been gifted and the need for more is ongoing.

Adult and children bike donations are always wanted. AAFB has a drop-off space in the Alamo Plaza shopping center next door to the now-closed Rite Aid. The address is 140 Alamo Plaza, Alamo. Donations of bikes are welcome Sundays and Mondays from 11AM-4PM. The pop-up shop will be ongoing at least through the end of June.

Volunteers make minor repairs and tune-up the bikes throughout the week, and just ask that the donated bikes be free of rust and without bent frames. Cash and donations are gratefully accepted and can be dropped off at the site. Donations cover bike locks, new helmets, parts, and tires. For updated information visit the “Adopt-A-Family Bikes” Facebook page, or www.adoptafamilybikes.org

of $2,220. This is 2.7 times the California minimum wage of $15.50 per hour.” Those numbers are a few years old and, according to Paida, that number is now closer to $45-$50 with minimum wage currently at $16 an hour. Many work full time, but still do not have enough to support themselves, thus the cycle continues.

In 2021, Trinity Center moved into their current building, partnering with St. Paul’s Episcopal Church who owns the space. While Trinity Center does not operate its own affordable housing units, an organization called Resources for Community Development (RCD) runs the upstairs units, providing affordable living spaces. RCD often partners with Trinity Center to help place members into affordable housing once they have established full time work and are ready to make the move.

In a perfect world, Trinity Center would have funds to provide its own affordable housing, but that big dream is in the distant future due to the many funding cuts reducing access to federal grants as well as inflation driving up operating costs. Currently, Trinity Center is able to place an average of 8-9 individuals into housing each month. They would love to increase this number but need more funds to attain that goal. With high bills and grants drying up, Trinity Center continues to draw upon support from the community to help tackle the massive call to help our unhoused neighbors. Trinity Center’s yearly gala is one of their biggest fundraising events of the year. For 2026, their Hope Rising Gala will take place on Thursday, May 14th at 6PM at Lafayette Park Hotel. The event includes a patio reception with silent auction, seated dinner, inspiring program, live auction and powerful fund-a-need. Sponsorships are available and Trinity Center is asking anyone who can donate items for their auction to please reach out to pamm@ trinitycenterwc.org

In addition to their gala, Trinity Center hosted a poker night last year, which they will repeat again this year, and Trinity Center’s fall harvest festival will return to raise funds as well. In addition to these, raising awareness among organizations is another way they build support. This support isn’t always just cash donations, but comes in the form of partnerships with local businesses to provide internships to members or donating items, labor, or expertise to Trinity Center. Trinity Center is also seeking a new board member, with a particular need for someone with legal expertise. The community can also assist Trinity Center by donating their gently used clothing to the clothing closet. They are especially in need of adult clothing that would work well for job interviews, men’s belts, and plastic shopping bags.

Paida has worked in housing for the last 12 years or so and her biggest lesson has been that progress happens while working towards becoming housed, but it can be slow. Paida notes that the path to success requires “relentlessly engaging with the individuals we serve.”

Trinity Center is finding every way possible to help their members flourish, and they are doing it with fewer resources. If members of the community want to help their unhoused neighbors find steady housing, now is the time to lend support to Trinity Center. Visit www.trinitycenterwc.org for more information about how you can help end the cycle of homelessness.

CASH ME OUT EARLY THE PERKS OF PLAYING IT SMART

By Waldron Partners

Picture this: stepping away from the grind. No more clocking in. No more scrambling to meet deadlines or counting down to weekends. Instead, you’re waking up on your own terms—maybe to hit the hiking trail, start that passion project, or just enjoy a second cup of coffee without rushing. Sounds like a dream? It doesn’t have to be. Reaching financial independence isn’t reserved for lottery winners or penny-pinchers. It’s about making intentional, strategic decisions now that will empower you later. At Waldron Partners, we don’t just believe it’s possible—we know it’s achievable. Because we’ve seen it happen. WHAT DOES FINANCIAL

INDEPENDENCE

REALLY MEAN?

Financial independence isn’t just about hitting a certain number in your bank account. It’s about creating a lifestyle where you call the shots—not your spreadsheets, not your bills, and definitely not the clock. It means having options because you planned ahead, living without relying on a paycheck, and making choices based on what fulfills you—not just what pays the bills. It’s not about living less; it’s about living freely. And, the key to unlocking that freedom? Smart, purposeful financial planning.

WHY START EARLY?

Let’s be real: the sooner you start, the more time your money has to hustle for you—through the magic of compounding interest, the steady growth of diversified investments, and tax-efficient strategies that stretch every dollar further. But, beyond the spreadsheets and projections lies something more powerful: confidence. The kind that lets you say, “Yeah, I think I’ll step away from the 9–5 at 45.” That’s what starting early gets you—not just wealth, but freedom of choice. And no, this doesn’t mean giving up your $12 latte or taking fewer vacations. It means making smart moves that align with what really matters to you.

THE WALDRON PARTNERS APPROACH

At Waldron Partners, we imagine ourselves as your co-pilots on the path to independence. What makes us different? Everything we do is rooted in service, precision, and purpose. From the moment we connect, you’ll notice we make the complex simple, giving you the tools and confidence you need to succeed. Here’s what makes us different:

• Custom Strategies - Every client’s story is different, so why take a onesize-fits-all approach? Whether you’re saving for your dream retirement, building a portfolio that aligns with your values, or navigating tax complexities, we create strategies tailored to your goals.

• Strategic Navigation - We analyze every option with care, to help ensure every move is built for long-term success. No guesswork. No unnecessary risks. Just crystal-clear planning with your best interest front and center.

• Ethical Leadership - With us, there’s no fine print. We do what’s right, no matter what. Your trust is the foundation of everything we do.

WHY WALDRON PARTNERS?

Because we’re not just focused on your finances—we’re focused on you We understand that behind every investment account is a dream, a family, a “someday” you’re working toward. And, we’re here to turn “someday” into a reality that’s sooner than you think.

Our team brings precision, passion, and a people-first mindset to everything we do. From simplifying complex plans to obsessing over the details, we make sure your financial future isn’t just secure—it’s thriving.

THE TIME TO START IS NOW

Every day you wait is a missed opportunity to move closer to the life you actually want. And no, you don’t have to overhaul your life overnight. But, one step today? That’s powerful.

Are you ready to be the person who looks up and says, “Wait… I can retire now?” Let’s make that happen.

Schedule a complimentary consultation with Waldron Partners today. We’ll help you map out your freedom, build your confidence, and yes—cash you out early.

Your future is calling. Let’s design it on your terms. Email us at team@ waldronpartners.com

Disclosure: Osaic Wealth, Inc. and its representatives do not provide legal or tax advice. You should consult a legal or tax advisor regarding any legal or tax information as it relates to your personal circumstances.

Peter Waldron CA Insurance License #0E47827. Securities and investment advisory services offered through Osaic Wealth, Inc. member FINRA/SIPC. Osaic Wealth is separately owned and other entities and/or marketing names, products or services referenced here are independent of Osaic Wealth Advertorial

TRUST ADMINISTRATION IS CHALLENGING!

By Robert J. Silverman, Esq. (left), Silverman & Jaffe

Articles about establishing revocable living trusts are prevalent; those about administering trusts are not, despite the topic’s importance. Trust administration is the process by which a trustee manages and distributes assets held in a trust created by one or more people - “grantors” (aka “settlors” or “trustors”). Typically, the grantor serves as his or her own trustee, the grantor is the only lifetime beneficiary, and one or more other individuals and/or charities are designated by the grantor as beneficiaries following the grantor’s death.

During the grantor’s life, particularly when the grantor serves as his own trustee, trust administration is transparent and routine. The grantor handles trust assets just like he or she would if the assets were owned individually. But when the grantor becomes unable or unwilling to manage the trust (e.g. upon the grantor’s incapacity), the successor trustee named by the grantor takes over trust administration duties.

Successor trustees have a fiduciary duty – the duty to act strictly in the best interest of the trust beneficiaries. Upon the grantor’s incapacity or death, many successor trustees who are called upon to serve don’t fully appreciate how critical this duty is; what the legal requirements or what the potential pitfalls are.

Challenging and sometimes complex tasks generally include, but are not limited to: marshaling, valuing, managing, and protecting the assets; giving proper notice to, and communicating with, beneficiaries and other interested parties; evaluating and paying debts and taxes; causing tax returns to be filed; keeping accurate records; preparing and delivering an accounting to the beneficiaries; and distributing assets when, how, and to whom they should, as governed by the trust document and applicable law.

One important aspect of California post-death trust administration is the requirement to provide timely notice, containing certain language in a specific format, to beneficiaries and others who are entitled to receive it. The trustee must also keep beneficiaries reasonably informed about the assets, liabilities, expenses, and progress of the administration.

In some cases, beneficiaries may contest the trust document and/or file suit, alleging that the trustee has acted negligently or has breached his fiduciary duty. A claimant may believe that the trustee has failed to act in the best interests of the beneficiaries; has not provided a timely or sufficient accounting; has failed to distribute the assets in a timely or proper manner; or has failed to manage the assets prudently. If a beneficiary asserts any such claims, the trustee must take steps to address the claims and resolve disputes in a fair and transparent manner.

The trust administration process usually takes six to nine months or sometimes a year or longer to complete, depending on any number of factors, including the type and value of trust assets, whether some assets need to be sold during the administration, if disputes arise, etc. For these reasons, many trustees wisely choose to work with experienced professionals during the trust administration process. This should include an attorney and accountant, and often also financial advisors, real estate agents, appraisers and other professionals who can provide critical expertise, guidance, and support throughout the process. Fortunately, most trusts expressly authorize the trustee to hire such professionals and pay their fees from the trust assets.

In summary, beneficiaries have robust rights under California law; successor trustees have important duties, and trust administration can be a lengthy and challenging process. So, trustees are well advised to work with experienced professionals to navigate the process and ensure compliance with applicable legal requirements. Failing to do so opens up successor trustees to needless potential peril – exposing themselves to personal liability for their acts and omissions.

Estate Planning | Trust Administration & Probate | Real Estate

Please contact me to request a complimentary: i) Estate Planning Primer, ii) Real Estate titling brochure, and/or iii) an introductory meeting. I am an attorney with Silverman & Jaffe, 1910 Olympic Blvd., Suite 330, Walnut Creek, CA 94596; (925) 705-4474; rsilverman@silvermanjaffe.com. This article is intended to provide information of a general nature, and should not be relied upon as legal, tax and/ or business advice. Readers should obtain specific advice from their own, qualified professional advisors.

AGGRESSIVE & SKILLED LEGAL ADVOCACY

www.gattopc.com

KIWANIS CLUB OF SAN RAMON VALLEY

The Kiwanis Club of San Ramon Valley meets every Thursday at noon at Black Bear Diner located at 807 Camino Ramon in Danville. New and prospective members are welcome! The Club organizes the Kiwanis 4th of July Parade in Danville and participates in many community service projects. The Club has an interesting and informative weekly program speaker. There is no charge for a guest lunch. For more information, email info@srvkiwanis.org, or visit www.srvkiwanis.org

EXCHANGE CLUB

The Exchange Club of San Ramon Valley meets for lunch the second Wednesday of every month at Norm’s Place located at 356 Hartz Ave, Danville. Sign-in and social time begin at 11:30 AM . The meeting starts promptly at noon and ends promptly at 1 PM. The one-hour program features guest speakers and business networking. Guests are welcome with luncheon reservations. The cost is $30. For reservations and information, please contact Karen Stepper at 925-998-8865 or coachstepper@yahoo.com

LOCAL ROTARY CLUBS

The Rotary Club of Alamo meets the 2nd, 4th, and 5th Wednesdays at 12:15PM at Round Hill Country Club; visit their Facebook page “Rotary Club of Alamo.” More information is also available at alamorotary.org, alamorotary@ hotmail.com, or by calling 925-718-6601. The Rotary Club of San Ramon Valley meets at Fat Maddie’s located at 3483 Blackhawk Plaza Circle, Danville on the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Wednesdays from 7PM-8:30PM. For more information, call Valerie Munoz at 925-683-6310 or visit www.sanramonvalleyrotary.com. The Rotary Club of Dougherty Valley/San Ramon meets Wednesdays from 5:15PM-6:40PM at Amador Rancho Community Center. For more information, call 925-998-2924. The Danville San Ramon Rotary Club meets at the Redwood Room at Roundhouse located 2600 Camino Ramon, San Ramon. Meetings are held Tuesdays from noon-1:15PM, and no meetings in months with a 5th Tuesday. For more information call 925-997-9046.

BE PREPARED!

SIGN UP FOR COMMUNITY WARNING SYSTEM ALERTS

Emergencies are inevitable; being prepared is paramount and can give you and your family an edge on knowing how to handle a situation. The Contra Costa Community Warning System (CWS) is one of the nation’s most modern and effective all-hazard community warning systems. You can receive alerts via phone calls, text messages, and email from the CWS in times of local emergencies such as gas leaks, fires, hazardous material incidents, law enforcement activities, and more that will include basic information about the incident and what specific protective actions (shelter in place, lock-down, evacuate, avoid the area, etc.) that are necessary to protect life and health.

Register to receive emergency alerts, and learn more at cwsalerts.com

YOUR PERSONAL NUTRITIONISTS

A NUTRITION PLAN FOR COLLEGE STUDENTS

By Linda Michaelis RD, MS and Jackie Peterson RD CDCES

We work with many high school seniors who will be moving away or off to college in the fall. Many want to take responsibility for their nutrition and weight to start off with a new image. They know mom and dad will not be around to provide meals and they will have to make their own food choices at the dorm, cafeteria, apartment, or other spots on and off campus. Many students come in and do not realize what balanced meals and snacks truly are. They do not know how to read the food label and often just look at calories. They don’t understand that there is much more to the food label such as looking at the more important food groups such as protein, fiber, and sugar. Often a student will come back from college orientation and show us the college website where all of the eating facilities and menus are listed. Some students come with photos of the dining hall offerings from when they visited the campus. Our job is to help them evaluate all that is available and show what can be great prospective meal plans based on their class schedule.

Many college communities have a Trader Joe’s or other grocery store close to campus. For this reason, we make it a point to include a visit to the market of their choice during a counseling session. We show them what can be great meals and snacks for times that dining halls are closed.

On a recent visit, our client Sam was excited to see that she could buy low fat macaroni and cheese as long as she used it as a topping for broccoli (which is also available in a convenient steam-in-the-bag option). We also looked at buying baked potatoes or sweet potatoes which can easily be cooked in a microwave in a dorm room. Sam liked the idea of topping a potato with Fage nonfat yogurt which tastes like sour cream. Instant oatmeal packets with a side of yogurt and fruit were discussed as they are easily available and can provide a quick meal during study times. We talked about great soup choices that are hearty and high in protein and fiber such as Amy’s Lentil and Veggie Soup, Black Bean Soup, and Minestrone Soup. We learned how to look at soups and to be aware of how many servings there are in a can. Then we taught Sam that she has to multiply the protein and fiber by how many servings are listed on the food label. Lastly, we looked at buying baby carrots or hearts of celery and enjoying them with almond butter for a great portable snack. After our store visit, Sam seemed relieved that she could now manage her nutrition when left to buy her own foods at home or at college.

We make ourselves very available to these students when they are away at school via text, which is how most prefer to communicate. We often receive photos of their meals at restaurants or even pictures of the nutrition label of food packages and asking opinions on whether the food would be recommended or not. We see too many kids using protein shakes and bars thinking that they are a meal replacement after a workout. Yes, it is good to repair your muscles, but we find the bars are not filling and the student ends up being hungry soon after. It is better to eat a high protein and fiber meal such as an omelet with veggies and meat, or a baked potato topped with chili. As often as possible it is recommended to have a balanced meal instead of these shakes and bars. The good news is that most insurance companies pay for nutritional counseling including ABMG, Aetna, Blue Cross, Blue Shield, CCHP, Cigna, Hill, Sutter, UHC, and others. We are happy to call on your behalf and see what your plan offers. Please visit www.LindaRD.com to learn more about our services. Email us at lifeweight1@yahoo.com, or 925-855-0150 to tell us about your nutritional concerns and see how we can help you. Advertorial

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or pipes while delivering a diagnosis or even while in the operating room.”

On the Facebook group “Show Me Your Stethoscope” (SMYS), nurses share memories that read like a satirical sketch from Saturday Night Live. Donna Schultz, RN, recalls working in a respiratory ICU in the early 1980s where a patient room doubled as the staff break room and smoking lounge. “Every 12-hour shift change, we would sit in that room and smoke during report,” Schultz remembers. “When we would open the door, a cloud of smoke would blow out into the unit. Even nonsmokers stank. Most of our patients had trachs, were on vents, or had lung cancer or COPD from smoking. Those were different times. It was a different world. Everyone smoked.”

Dan Carnithan, a respiratory therapist, adds: “In the 1970s, there was an ashtray on every patient’s nightstand. The gift shop sold cigarettes with matches. Sounds bizarre now, but that was the way it was back then!”

In 1957, U.S. Surgeon General Leroy E. Burney, MD, MPH, officially declared a causal relationship between cigarette smoking and lung cancer. Yet, the tobacco industry, undeterred, intensified its marketing campaigns.

American Journal of Public Health (Vol. 91, No. 2), “The eventual cooperation of HEW, the FTC, and Congress in the face of increasing public pressure finally led to public health action. It was the prior lack of such pressure that had prevented an earlier response.”

Today, lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer deaths, claiming more lives than prostate, breast, and colon cancers combined. Often called the “silent killer,” it typically shows no symptoms until it has advanced. While smoking is the primary cause, radon exposure ranks second. And now, a troubling new demographic is emerging:

As a lifelong non-smoker raised in a smoke-free home, lung cancer was never on my radar. A couple of years ago, while volunteering for a medical study at UCSF, a small nodule was detected on my lung. During my first appointment with an oncologist, who gently explained the possibility of lung cancer, I shook my head in disbelief. “But I swim a mile five times a week and walk at least six miles a day,” I protested. “I’ve never smoked. I think my file must have been mixed up with someone else’s.” I’ve since learned that my reaction

I had no idea then that a new profile of lung cancer patients was emerging;: never-smokers, particularly women. According to a report on Statnews.com, “Emerging information shows that environmental factors like air pollution, occupational hazards, and fumes from cooking are driving many of these cases... People of Asian descent appear to be at higher risk, and women in general have twice the likelihood of developing tumors.”

SHOULDER PAIN BEFORE YOU CONSIDER SURGERY, KNOW YOUR OPTIONS

By Dr. Niele Maimone, DC

If your shoulder hurts when you reach overhead, lift something, or try to sleep comfortably at night, you know how limiting shoulder pain can feel. What may start as a small ache can gradually interfere with everyday life—putting on a jacket, reaching into the back seat of your car, exercising, or getting comfortable in bed. Many people with persistent shoulder pain eventually hear the same message: You need surgery.

For someone who would rather help their body heal than jump straight to an operation, that can feel discouraging. What many people don’t realize is that surgery is not the only option.

Even if you’ve already had shoulder surgery and still experience pain or stiffness, there are ways to support healing and improve function.

Your shoulder is the most mobile joint in your body. This mobility allows you to throw, lift, swim, work, and move your arms freely in nearly every direction. Because the shoulder relies heavily on muscles, tendons, and ligaments for stability, these tissues can become irritated or injured over time.

Rotator cuff strain, tendonitis, bursitis, frozen shoulder, arthritis, and repetitive movement are among the most common causes of shoulder pain.

The encouraging news is that many shoulder problems improve when we focus on restoring movement, improving circulation, and supporting the body’s natural repair processes.

STEP 1: RESTORE MOVEMENT AND IMPROVE CIRCULATION

The first step in healing shoulder pain is helping the joint move properly again.

Your shoulder does not work alone. The neck, upper back, and shoulder blade all influence how the joint functions. When these areas become restricted or imbalanced, extra stress is placed on the rotator cuff and surrounding tissues.

Gentle chiropractic care helps restore healthy movement between these areas so the shoulder does not have to compensate.

We also include treatments that improve circulation and stimulate healing within injured tissues. TECHNOLOGIES WE USE TO SUPPORT HEALING

Class IV Laser Therapy - Boosts circulation and cellular energy in injured tissues, helping calm inflammation and activate the body’s natural repair response.

Shockwave Therapy - Stimulates blood flow and cellular signaling in tendons and ligaments that may struggle to heal due to limited circulation.

PEMF Therapy (Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy) - Supports cellular activity and energy in injured tissues, helping create an environment conducive to recovery.

For many people, restoring movement and improving circulation leads to meaningful improvements in comfort and mobility

STEP 2: SUPPORT HEALING SIGNALS WITHIN THE BODY

Healing is not only mechanical but also biological. When tissues are injured, the body relies on chemical signaling to regulate inflammation and guide repair.

Therapeutic Peptides: Peptides such as KPV, BPC-157 and TB-500 are being studied and used for their potential to regulate inflammatory signaling and support the body’s natural tissue-repair mechanisms.

By supporting these healing signals, injured tendons and ligaments are better able to recover and regain strength.

STEP 3: REGENERATIVE MEDICINE TO SUPPORT TISSUE REPAIR

When shoulder injuries involve deeper tissue damage—such as rotator cuff degeneration, tendon tears, cartilage wear, or lingering pain after surgery— regenerative therapies may offer another option for supporting recovery

Stem Cells + Exosomes: We use advanced biologic therapies combining stem cells and exosomes to support tissue repair within the shoulder.

Stem cells provide signaling molecules that support collagen production and the body’s natural repair processes in damaged tendons, ligaments, and joint tissues. Exosomes carry growth factors and cellular communication signals that help regulate inflammation and guide the healing response. Together, these biological signals help create a healthier environment for injured tissues to repair and regain function. When regenerative therapies are combined with treatments that restore movement, improve circulation, and support inflammation balance, many patients experience meaningful improvements in comfort, strength, and mobility. Rather than masking pain, this approach focuses on improving tissue health and supporting the body’s ability to heal.

LUNCH AT THE DANVILLE SENIOR CENTER

The Danville Senior Center offers a Monday Senior Lunch program. Lunches are provided in partnership with Café Costa and served at noon each Monday. Participants can enjoy puzzles and board games in the Community Hall at the Danville Senior Center (located at 115 E Prospect Ave, Danville) before lunch and stay for a free weekly movie following lunch. Residents wishing to participate will need to complete a County NAPIS form and call in their reservation by noon the Friday before. Forms are available at the Danville Senior Center. The lunch program is provided in partnership with Contra Costa County and has a suggested donation of $3 for those 60 and up. Those under 60 can still enjoy lunch for a $6 fee. Menus are available at www. danville.ca.gov/seniors, and vegetarian options are available by request. For more information or to call in a reservation, please contact the Danville Senior Center at 925-314-3430.

WHEN SHOULDER PAIN DOESN’T GO AWAY

Many people live with shoulder pain for months or years, adjusting how they move to avoid discomfort. Over time, this can strain the neck, upper back, and even the opposite shoulder.

If shoulder pain is limiting your life, it may be time for a different approach. Schedule your shoulder consultation at AlignHealingCenter.com or call 925-362-8283 and let’s help your shoulder move comfortably again.

The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Stem cell and regenerative therapies described are not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Individual experiences and results may vary.

Advertorial

By

THE QUIET DIAGNOSIS THAT COULD BE STEALING YOUR ENERGY, GUT HEALTH, AND FUTURE BRAIN FUNCTION

Dr. Jeffrey Mark, M.D & Dr. Frances Mark, Pharm.D., The Real Gut Doctor

Most people think prediabetes is a mild warning, a borderline number, or a problem to deal with later. Dr. Mark wants you to understand something far more serious: prediabetes is often the first visible sign that the body is already under metabolic stress, inflammatory pressure, and physiological strain that can quietly affect nearly every major system.

At The Real Gut Doctor, we see this pattern every day. A patient is told their blood sugar is only slightly elevated. They are advised to watch it, eat a little better, maybe lose a few pounds, and recheck in the future. But the future is often when the price of delay becomes painfully clear. Later is when fatigue becomes constant, brain fog starts interfering with work and decision making. Later is when weight gain, cravings, digestive problems, and insulin resistance deepen into a much bigger health crisis.

Prediabetes is not almost healthy. It is the stage where the body is already losing ground.

One of the greatest dangers of prediabetes is that it does not always feel dramatic in the beginning. It often appears through symptoms people dismiss as normal aging, stress, or poor sleep. They feel tired after meals. Their concentration slips. They become more reactive to sugar and carbohydrates. Their belly fat increases. Their sleep quality worsens. Their gut becomes more unpredictable. They begin to feel inflamed, foggy, and unlike themselves, but they keep pushing through because life is busy and the symptoms seem manageable. That is exactly why this problem becomes so dangerous. Because it whispers before it shouts.

Type 2 diabetes is not simply a blood sugar problem. It is a metabolic and inflammatory condition that can affect energy, circulation, nerve function, hormones, digestion, mood, and long term vitality. It changes how the body processes fuel and how cells respond to insulin. Over time, that dysfunction

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Founded in 1904, the American Lung Association (ALA) has been a steadfast advocate for respiratory health. The organization played a pivotal role in pushing for the Clean Air Act and championing smoke-free public spaces. Today, the ALA focuses on four key pillars: defeating lung cancer, creating a tobacco-free future, championing clean air, and improving the quality of life for those living with lung disease. Through education, research, and advocacy, they continue the fight for every breath.

One of their signature events, the Fight For Air Climb, will take place on April 18th at San Francisco’s iconic 555 California Street building. Climbers of all abilities, from first-timers to elite competitive stair steppers including firefighters (some in full gear), will tackle 52 floors (1,197 steps) from the ground level to the top. Carrie Nash, Executive Director of the American Lung Association in California, shares that competitive climbers can reach the summit in as little as six minutes, while most participants take a more leisurely 16-20 minutes. It’s a challenge, a celebration, and a testament to the power of healthy lungs.

You can join my team, Linda’s Fight for Fresh Air (https://tinyurl.com/3dej3yr6), start your own team, attend as a cheerleader or donate by emailing FightForAirClimbSF@lung.org

As for me, I’ve completed my radiation therapy. I still swim my mile, walk my six miles, and carry with me a profound gratitude that my cancer was caught early. If there’s one thing I hope you take from my story, it’s this: ask your doctor about lung cancer screening, even if you’ve never smoked. Early detection saves lives.

For more information, visit FightForAirClimb.org/sanfrancisco. Or, reach out to me directly at coverthemap@gmail.com. Let’s clear the air together.

can create a cascade of consequences that reach far beyond the pancreas. Even more concerning is the growing conversation around what many call type 3 diabetes, a term often used to describe the link between insulin resistance and the brain. In plain language, the same dysfunction that destabilizes blood sugar can also interfere with memory, focus, mood, and cognitive resilience. This means the stakes are much higher than most people realize. Protecting blood sugar is not only about preventing diabetes. It is about protecting the future of your brain.

This is where Dr. Mark’s work stands apart. As a 5X board certified gastroenterologist with advanced Harvard metabolic medicine training, Dr. Mark brings a deeper and more complete perspective to these issues. He does not look at fatigue, bloating, brain fog, inflammation, and blood sugar as separate complaints. He looks at how they may be connected and what the body has been trying to signal all along.

Very often, the gut is one of the missing pieces.

When the microbiome becomes imbalanced, a condition known as dysbiosis can contribute to chronic inflammation, altered metabolism, poor digestion, immune disruption, and worsening insulin resistance. This also affects the gut brain connection, which helps explain why so many people with blood sugar problems also struggle with bloating, constipation, diarrhea, food sensitivities, cravings, low energy, anxiety, skin issues, and mental fog. These symptoms are not random. They are often part of one interconnected picture.

The greatest mistake people make is assuming they have plenty of time. Slow moving threats are easy to ignore because the consequences are delayed. That is what makes prediabetes so deceptive. It allows people to postpone action while the body continues moving in the wrong direction.

The price of waiting is not measured only in lab numbers. It is measured in worsening fatigue, fading mental sharpness, rising fear, lost productivity, broken confidence, and precious years of health, strength, and independence you may never fully get back.

If you have been told you have prediabetes, are living with type 2 diabetes, or are battling brain fog, bloating, inflammation, exhaustion, cravings, unexplained gut symptoms or weight gain, do not minimize it. Do not normalize it. Do not accept shallow answers while the problem grows deeper.

Call The Real Gut Doctor today at 925-736-9828, visit www.TheRealGutDoctor.com or scan the QR code to schedule a deeper discussion with Dr. Mark before today’s warning becomes tomorrow’s irreversible decline and damage. Advertorial

FREE MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT

Discovery Counseling Center (DCC) is a nonprofit mental health clinic and training agency that has been supporting our community for over 50 years through direct school-based and clinic counseling services. DCC has announced new group counseling sessions. The first six weeks are free for all participants. The cost is $40 per session thereafter for non-Danville residents, with the ability to apply for financial assistance as needed.

SENIOR SUPPORT GROUP

A supportive group environment for seniors to feel more connected by helping them gain new ideas on how to cope with challenges commonly faced by their age group, including issues of physical and mental health, coping with grief and loss, loneliness, stress, and life transitions. The goals of this group are to create connection, gain insight on common issues, build resilience, and foster community.

LGBTQ+ HIGH SCHOOL TEEN GROUP

A safe, inclusive space specifically for high school-aged teens who identify within the LGBTQ+ community. It’s a place to connect, share experiences, and receive support around LGBTQ+ related issues. The group fosters a sense of belonging, promoting both personal healing and collective growth through open communication and mutual understanding. With guidance from trained facilitators, the group offers structured opportunities for peer support, sharing coping strategies, and strengthening resilience in a way that is relatable and relevant to the challenges teens face.

GRIEF GROUP

Join a nurturing space to explore grief through authentic conversation, compassionate listening, and shared creative practices. Gatherings will include:

• Thoughtful discussions and weekly exploration topics.

• Gentle somatic movement and grounding exercises.

• Poetry and short writing prompts, with an open invitation to share.

• Insights and practices to engage with grief between sessions.

SIGN-UP

The programs are ongoing and held at the DCC offices located at 115A Town & Country Drive, Danville. To register and participate call 925-8370505. To learn more about DCC visit www.discoveryctr.net.

TELECARE CONNECTS WITH THE HOMEBOUND

Since 1971, member volunteers of TeleCare, a philanthropic program of Assistance League ® of Diablo Valley, have been making weekday reassurance calls to seniors and the homebound in our community. Clients can anticipate a friendly exchange of ideas with trained volunteers who provide high quality, consistent communications. If a client cannot be reached, family members will be notified.

This service is free! Make that call to get you or someone you know connected! For more information, call 925-934-0901. To learn about Assistance League of Diablo Valley’s other philanthropic programs, please visit www. assistanceleague.org/diablo-valley

MEALS ON WHEELS VOLUNTEER PROGRAMS

Where patients are treated like family.

Cosmetic Dermatology

• Micro-Fractional CO 2 Laser Skin Resurfacing

• 532 Laser (red vein treatment)

• Botox/Dysport

• Fillers

• Pharmaceutical Grade Skin Care Products

Medical Dermatology

Meals on Wheels Diablo Region (MOW Diablo Region) offers many volunteer opportunities to support seniors in our community. Do you have a few hours a month to spare? Become a volunteer Meal Delivery Driver and help bring ready-to-eat meals to neighbors in need—or sign up to be a Friendly Caller, Helper, or Visitor to provide companionship to seniors experiencing isolation. To get involved or learn more about the supportive services MOW Diablo Region offers, visit mowdiabloregion.org/get-involved, email volunteer@mowdr.org, or call (925) 937-8311.

THE EYE OPENER ALLERGIES

By Gregory Kraskowsky, O.D., Alamo Optometry

• Skin Cancer Treatments

• Mole Removal

• Rashes

• Skin Tags

• We accept Medicare and most PPO insurances

Even though it is early in year, many patients, including myself, have already started to have allergy symptoms. So far, the symptoms have been mild, but it does not bode well for the upcoming spring months if we are already experiencing issues. As many people in the Tri-Valley area suffer from allergies in one form or another, I will discuss how allergies affect the eyes and some of the defenses available to combat them.

In the United States, allergies affect about 20% of the population, and over half of those have ocular symptoms; however, those numbers are higher in the East Bay area. Eye allergies involve the conjunctiva, which is the clear tissue that covers the white surface of the eye and the underside of the eyelids. The conjunctiva is a barrier structure that is exposed to the environment and therefore many different allergens. It is rich in blood vessels and contains more mast cells (histamine-releasing cells) than the lungs. Histamine is the chemical that dilates blood vessels and makes them more permeable; this allows other chemicals in the blood stream to leak out which intensifies itching, redness, and swelling.

For contact lens wearers, allergies can cause blurry vision, decreased wearing time, and an increase in build-up on the lenses. Therefore, it is important to be mindful of the “surface environment” that contact lenses create. Extended wearing times, infrequent replacement of lenses, and use of potentially irritating contact lens care products can significantly exacerbate symptoms. Daily disposable lenses help mitigate some of these issues since there is no build-up on the lenses and since they are replaced every day, there is no cleaning required. Proper lens wear and care are important parts of keeping contact lens wearers safe and comfortable.

When allergy symptoms kick in, patients usually visit the local drugstore to pick up a systemic antihistamine for relief. These medications can clear up symptoms like runny noses, sneezing and coughing, but can make the eye condition worse. A major side-effect of oral antihistamines is that they have a drying effect on the eyes, thereby decreasing tear quality and quantity. Since tears are a major combatant of allergies, this can have a detrimental effect. If your tears cannot adequately protect against and flush out the allergens on the eyes, they remain on the eye longer and make matters worse. Also, a dry eye condition can develop which will add burning and stinging to your already itchy eyes.

Allergy sufferers can help themselves by controlling their ocular environment. Limiting exposure to environmental allergies (keeping the windows closed, wearing sunglasses, rinsing your eyes after being outside, etc.) can limit the severity of symptoms. In addition, there are many prescription drops that help ease the effects of allergies; most of these are in the steroid family. Since antihistamines Patanol and Pataday are now available OTC, most insurance companies will not cover other prescription antihistamine drops. Depending on the symptoms and ocular presentation, different classes of medications can help, including lubricating drops.

My ability to visualize the structures of the eye enables me to diagnose allergies and to initiate appropriate therapy. Since there are some other conditions that can mimic the symptoms of allergies, an office visit can help sort out the diagnosis instead of self-prescribing. Keep in mind it is much easier to treat allergies early on before the symptoms become unbearable. If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms such as tearing, itching, redness, discharge, and swelling, please contact the office so we can get you on the schedule to help begin improving your situation.

Dr. K. at Alamo Optometry is your hometown eye doctor for outstanding service, vision care, and designer eyewear. He can be reached at (925) 820-6622, or visit his office at 3201 Danville Blvd., Suite 165, in Alamo. For more information, visit www.alamooptometry.com, or follow on Facebook and Instagram @Alamo Optometry. Advertorial

SKINtheNEWS By

Jerome Potozkin, MD

TIRED OF LOSING HAIR?

Hair loss is one of the most common concerns dermatologists see in both men and women. The most frequent cause is genetic hair loss, medically known as androgenetic alopecia. While many people think of it as a male problem, it affects both sexes, though it tends to appear differently.

In men, androgenetic alopecia typically presents as a receding hairline and thinning at the crown, often progressing to more extensive baldness over time. In women, the pattern is usually more subtle, with diffuse thinning along the top of the scalp while the frontal hairline remains intact. The condition is driven by a combination of genetics and hormones, particularly sensitivity of hair follicles to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Over time, affected follicles shrink and produce progressively thinner, shorter hairs.

THE FIRST BREAKTHROUGH: TOPICAL MINOXIDIL (ROGAINE)

The first medication approved to treat hair loss was topical minoxidil, widely known by the brand name Rogaine. Originally developed as a blood pressure medication, physicians noticed that patients taking it often experienced increased hair growth.

Researchers eventually developed a topical version, which became FDA-approved for hair loss in the late 1980s. Minoxidil works by prolonging the hair growth cycle and improving blood flow to hair follicles, helping them produce thicker hair. It is available over the counter and remains one of the most widely used treatments today for both men and women.

FINASTERIDE (PROPECIA)

Another major advancement came with the introduction of finasteride. Finasteride works by blocking the enzyme that converts testosterone to DHT, the hormone largely responsible for follicle miniaturization in androgenetic alopecia. For many men, oral finasteride significantly slows hair loss and can even promote regrowth. Because it affects hormone metabolism, it has been associated with potential sexual side effects in a small percentage of patients.

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In recent years, there has been significant discussion surrounding “post-finasteride syndrome,” a condition in which symptoms such as sexual dysfunction or mood changes were reported to persist after stopping the medication. However, more recent and larger studies have produced findings that challenge earlier assumptions, suggesting that persistent symptoms may be much rarer than initially believed and may not be causally linked in many cases.

LOW-DOSE ORAL MINOXIDIL (OFF-LABEL)

An exciting newer option gaining popularity is low-dose oral minoxidil, prescribed off label for hair loss. At much lower doses than those used for blood pressure treatment, oral minoxidil can stimulate hair growth by increasing blood flow and extending the growth phase of hair follicles.

Many patients respond very well, but a known side effect is increased hair growth in unwanted areas, particularly facial hair.

PRP: A NEWER REGENERATIVE OPTION

Another treatment rapidly gaining popularity is platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy. During this procedure, a small amount of the patient’s blood is processed to concentrate growth factors, which are then injected into the scalp to stimulate hair follicles.

It has become a frequently requested service at Potozkin + Ellis Dermatology & Aesthetics.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Hair loss can be frustrating, but today’s dermatology offers more treatment options than ever before. From topical therapies and oral medications to regenerative treatments like PRP, many patients can slow hair loss and even regain fuller hair with the right approach.

If you’re tired of losing hair, the good news is that effective solutions are available—and the earlier treatment begins, the better the results tend to be.

Dr. Jerome Potozkin is a Board Certified Dermatologist and Board Certified Micrographic Dermatologic Surgeon specializing in minimally and non-invasive cosmetic procedures. He is the author of “Botox and Beyond: Your Guide to Safe Non-Surgical Cosmetic Procedures.” The practice is accepting new patients and can be reached at (925) 838-4900 and www. MyBeautyMd.com. Advertorial

Suddenly, my stupor is broken by the blur of a feathered rocket as it dips and dives through the branches. Every single small bird scatters as they flee from the razor sharp talons of this larger, faster intruder. Some narrowly miss the window I’m looking through, making me gasp and flinch at the suddenness, raw power, and drama unfolding right before my eyes. Other small birds quickly dive into the relative safety of nearby bushes. But today, a morning dove was just a moment to slow, and in a puff of feathers it becomes the Cooper’s hawk’s next meal.

Cooper’s hawks are fierce predators who specialize in stalking your bird feeder, knowing that a smorgasbord of distracted prey is likely to be found. Visceral reactions to this surprisingly common event differ greatly among witnesses. My jaw drops, and I utter a quiet “wow” as the raptor lands on a nearby branch to devour its meal. Others surely find themselves distraught at the savagery that has just unfolded before their eyes. Regardless of how we humans process observing such an event, there is no denying that it is most certainly nature in the raw. If you spend any amount of time out in the wilds, you are sure to encounter predation. It is a fact of nature. But that does not, of course, mean that you can’t take steps to avoid subjecting yourself to being a witness, especially in a place that you have likely created outside your home in an effort to provide something of a sanctuary for wildlife. So… what to do?

• Avoid placing your feeder next to windows. When your neighborhood “Coop” swoops in, frantic fleeing birds will often strike them. Many products are available that can be applied to the window itself to create a visible barrier, and can help decrease bird strikes.

• Place your feeder in a location that offers small birds cover and protection, such as near shrubs and bushes.

• Take your feeder down for a few days until the Coop breaks its feeding pattern and moves on to other locations. Offering “acceptance” as a possible solution frankly seems trite – if your reaction to viewing predation is horror, that is unlikely to change, and all of the platitudes from us naturalists about it being a natural phenomenon will likely fall on very deaf ears. That said, to me, Cooper’s hawks are absolutely beautiful raptors, and part of a thriving and healthy ecosystem.

DISCOVER MOUNT DIABLO

Come enjoy some new adventures on and around Mount Diablo and up and down the Diablo Range! Explore some of the East Bay’s premiere hiking and natural areas with Save Mount Diablo, including places normally closed to the public through Discover Diablo hikes and outings.

Discover Diablo offers a wide variety of FREE adventures including guided hikes, themed walks, and other outdoor activities: mountain biking, rock climbing, meditation in nature, plein air painting events, and property tours.

Discover Diablo hikes are guided by experts steeped in the natural history and lore of the region, who both educate and entertain while emphasizing the breathtaking beauty that the Diablo Range has to offer.

Check out the schedule, learn more, and reserve your spot for an upcoming event at https://tinyurl.com/5u55hpm2

SEARCH AND RESCUE RECRUITING

The Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue team is recruiting volunteers for its September academy. Applicants don’t need any special skills -- just the desire and ability to complete challenging work as a qualified searcher and first responder. People interested in applying must attend an orientation, which is scheduled at 7PM the first Thursday of each month until June. The deadline to apply is June 9th. An oral interview and background check are required before training for the academy.

Learn more at www.contracostasar.org/jointhe-team, or email applicants@contracostasar.org

REVEAL THE SMILE YOU’VE ALWAYS IMAGINED: THE TRANSFORMATIVE POWER OF COSMETIC VENEERS

By Diablo Dental Group

Your smile is one of the first things people notice about you. It communicates confidence, warmth, and authenticity before you say a single word. But if chips, stains, gaps, or uneven teeth make you hesitant to smile, it can quietly affect how you feel in everyday moments—from photos to conversations to professional opportunities.

At Diablo Dental Group, we believe everyone deserves to love their smile. Cosmetic veneers offer one of the most powerful and natural-looking ways to transform your smile—and the confidence that comes with it.

Cosmetic veneers are ultra-thin, custom-crafted porcelain shells that are bonded to the front surface of your teeth. Designed with incredible precision, veneers can instantly improve the shape, color, size, and symmetry of your smile. They are ideal for correcting a wide range of cosmetic concerns, including discoloration, chipped teeth, worn edges, small gaps, and minor misalignment.

The beauty of veneers is that the transformation can be dramatic while still looking completely natural. Modern porcelain reflects light much like natural enamel, which means your veneers blend seamlessly with your smile. The result isn’t an artificial “perfect” smile—it’s a refined, balanced version of your own.

At Diablo Dental Group, cosmetic dentistry is treated as both a science and an art. Every smile is unique, and creating beautiful veneers requires a deep understanding of facial aesthetics, tooth proportions, and natural harmony. Rather than creating cookie-cutter smiles, we design veneers that complement your facial features, personality, and natural expressions.

Your journey begins with a personalized consultation where we listen carefully to your goals and vision. Using advanced digital technology and precise diagnostics—including modern digital scanning and low-radiation 3D imaging—we evaluate your smile and design a treatment plan tailored specifically to you.

This technology allows us to plan your veneers with remarkable accuracy while ensuring the long-term health and stability of your teeth.

But what truly makes Diablo Dental Group different isn’t just the technology—it’s the experience.

From the moment you walk into our office, you’ll notice that our approach to dentistry is different. Our practice was designed to create a calm, welcoming environment where patients feel relaxed and cared for. During your visit, you can choose from our comfort menu, whether it’s a cozy blanket, calming music, or other amenities designed to make your appointment feel more like a relaxing retreat than a dental procedure.

We believe exceptional dentistry should also come with an exceptional experience. Our team takes pride in building lasting relationships with our patients and providing personalized care at every step. Many of our team members have been with us for years, creating a consistent, supportive environment where patients feel comfortable and understood.

Patients across the Bay Area choose Diablo Dental Group because we combine advanced technology, meticulous attention to detail, and a boutique-style patient experience. Our focus isn’t just on creating beautiful smiles—it’s on creating results that feel authentic and last for years to come.

And the impact of veneers often goes far beyond aesthetics.

Many of our patients tell us their new smile changes the way they show up in the world. They smile more freely in photos, feel more confident in professional settings, and simply feel more comfortable being themselves. A smile you love has a way of influencing countless moments in your life.

If you’ve ever wondered what it would feel like to truly love your smile, cosmetic veneers may be the solution you’ve been looking for.

At Diablo Dental Group, we’re passionate about helping patients achieve natural, confident smiles through thoughtful design and personalized care. Your dream smile isn’t about looking like someone else—it’s about revealing the best version of you.

Schedule a consultation with Diablo Dental Group and take the first step toward a smile that’s brighter, more confident, and beautifully your own. Because when you feel proud of your smile, it shows—and the world notices!

Diablo Dental Group is located at 156 Diablo Rd., Suite 202, Danville. For more information call 925-837-1742 or visit thediablodentalgroup.com. Advertorial

HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE COLLECTION

Have you done some home cleaning and find yourself with paints and paint thinners, cleaning supplies, pesticides and garden-care items, batteries, motor oil and other automotive products, solvents, fluorescent tubes, personal care products, or unknown rusty containers that need safe disposal?

The Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) collection facility operated by the Central Contra Costa Sanitary District offers this free service to residents. Drop-off is available at 4797 Imhoff Place in Martinez from Monday-Saturday from 7AM until 2PM with no appointment needed.

Learn more at www.centralsan.org/household-hazardous-waste-collection-facility

College Essay Help

Are you or someone you know applying to college next year? Writing college essays can be one of the most stressful times in a student’s life, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you need that initial spark of inspiration for your first draft, or just want a pair of experienced eyes to look at what you’ve already written, Grace Notes Editing is the service for you. Grace Tseng is a MVHS alumna and English major at UC Berkeley passionate about helping students’ voices shine in their college essays to give them the best chance of getting into their dream schools. For more information, visit gracenotesediting.com and direct any questions to gracenotesediting@gmail.com .

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