2026 MAY ~ Alamo Today & Danville Today News

BLUE STAR MOMS OF DANVILLE COMMUNITY SUPPORT IN ACTION

By Traci Wyss

“It’s the constant worry 24/7. Someone knocking on your door changes because you fear it’s the news you don’t want to get.” Mother and co-founder of Blue Star Moms Chapter 101, Peggy Conklin, shared what she would like everyone to know about having a child in active-duty military service.

Blue Star Moms, located in Danville, is a volunteer support organization for mothers and family of active-duty service members of all branches of the United States Armed Forces. The group comes together to support one another while sending love and support to their sons and daughters serving in the military.

The Danville chapter was born from the fears and solidarity of three local moms with children enlisted at the time of the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. Peggy, along with Patty Martin and Nancy Ecker, had four sons between them all serving in the U.S. Army at that time. After attending a September 11th vigil in Danville, they went to dinner and discussed how at the time of uncertainty with our country headed to war they were grateful to have one another to lean on. They thought about how other mothers needed that support as well.

This moment of realization spurred their first meeting of around 50 moms on November 7, 2001. With constant work, and support from local veterans, the three mothers officially founded Blue Star Moms Chapter 101, an official chapter of Blue Star Mothers of America. The parent organization was formed during World War II to unite mothers of service members and provide volunteer support for troops overseas.

The symbol of the blue star dates to 1917 during World War I when families would hang a flag with a blue star in their windows to honor a loved one serving abroad. In 1918, families began placing a gold star over the blue star when a soldier had died in service, creating a distinction still recognized today: Blue Star

JOIN A MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONY A DAY OF REFLECTION, HONOR, AND RESPECT

Each year the Viet Nam Veterans of Diablo Valley erect a huge camouflage shade cover at Oak Hill Park in Danville, from which they host the annual Memorial Day Ceremony. The Danville Community Band will lead with patriotic melodies beginning at 10:30AM with the Ceremony following at 11AM. Join your community in remembering those who have left us in the past year, as well as military members who have sacrificed in the service of our country.

This year, the ceremony will be followed with a ribbon cutting at the All Wars Memorial, just across the Oak Hill Park lake. Surprise guest speaker, Abraham Lincoln (reenacted) will conclude the Ceremony, and then lead the community around the lake to the Memorial where he will speak.

Ceremony

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 7 PM. 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.

BOULEVARD VIEW

By Alisa Corstorphine, Editor and Publisher

Recently, my husband and I had the pleasure of accompanying my parents on a National Geographic|Lindblad cruise down the Columbia River. We started in Portland, Oregon, sailed to Astoria, back-tracked a little, passed through eight locks, and ended up in Clarkston, Washington where we took a jet-boat excursion on the Snake River, up Hells Canyon. We learned more about the travels of Lewis and Clark, and were accompanied by naturalists that shared their knowledge of botany, geology, ornithology, and food and wine. A silly highlight was flying balsa wood gliders from the 125-foot Astoria Tower. With amazing wind currents, and views of Cape Dis appointment and the Columbia Bar (one of the most dangerous bar crossings in the world), it was almost two minutes of amazing flight! It was nice for us all to spend the time together and share the amazing geology and varied landscape along the route. While it was a little risky booking a trip in the rainy Northwest at the beginning of April, we lucked out with mostly sunny skies.

Travel doesn’t have to be far away or to remote places. Travel is about seeing new sites, learning new things, meeting new people. Everyone onboard was interesting and the small ship reminiscent of summer camp.

One of the passengers was a woman who, as she turned the age of 70, came up with a list of 70 things she wanted to do. She cast her two years and she is nearing completion. Touring the Columbia River was one of the things to accomplish. She also went zip lining and hot air ballooning, learned the sport of curling, went to Taylor Swift and Adele concerts, made pizzas in Napoli, toured multiple food museums including the Idaho potato museum, as well as touring all of the presidential libraries, all California missions, and Fashion Week in New York. She made a plan and was nibbling her way through it. I aim to copy her goal of things I want to see and do, and then start nibbling away at it. Learning and exploring keep us young.

The other day, the “Cats in the Cradle” song by Harry F. Chapin, and Sandy Chapin came on the radio. It is poignant. Some of the verses follow.

My child arrived just the other day/He came to the world in the usual way/But there were planes to catch and bills to pay/He learned to walk while I was away/And he was talking ‘fore I knew it and as he grew/ He’d say, “I’m gonna be like you, dad/ You know, I’m gonna be like you”

My son turned ten just the other day/He said, “Thanks for the ball, dad, come on, let’s play/Can you teach me to throw?” I said, “Not today/I got a lot to do” he said, “That’s okay”/And he walked away but his smile never dimmed/ Said, “I’m gonna be like him, yeah/ You know, I’m gonna be like him”

Well, he came from college just the other day/So much like a man I just had to say/“Son, I’m proud of you, can you sit for a while?”/He shook his head and he said with a smile/“What I’d really like, dad, is to borrow the car keys/See you later, can I have them please?”

I’ve long since retired and my sons moved away/I called him up just the other day/I said, “I’d like to see you if you don’t mind”/He said, “I’d love to, dad, if I could find the time”/“You see, my new job’s a hassle and the kids got the flu/But it’s sure nice talking to you, dad/It’s been sure nice talking to you”/ And as I hung up the phone, it occurred to me/He’d grown up just like me/My boy was just like me. The song and the trip remind me once again, of the things that are important. I aim to spend more time with friends and family, get out, explore, and travel while I’m able. There are so many amazing places to see and things to do right in our own backyards. Check out the “Quick Trips” article on page 12 that reiterates this message.

CAN YOU PURCHASE A MATTRESS?

Contra Costa Interfaith Coalition (CCIC) is a local nonprofit founded in 1992 that provides housing essentials to people transitioning from the shelters and streets to permanent housing. Last year of the 610 people in our county they supported, 303 children were children, and 100 of the deliveries were to single parent households. Clients are referred by case managers from over 20 Contra Costa County agencies, as well as Hope Solutions, Independent Living Resources, Welcome Home Baby, and Trinity Center.

The group is 100% volunteer (over 40 volunteers), and works out of donated storage spaces, picking up donations and delivering to clients in their own vehicles.

The biggest expense needing support is for new beds. Other furniture placed is gently used. Most of the time, until the volunteers arrive, clients are sleeping on the floor.

The group is constantly in need of funding for beds. When funds get low, as they are now, they have to put a stop on ordering beds.

Can you, your company, your church, or your local group sponsor even one mattress? If so, please reach out to Tania at taniahd@comcast.net. Learn more at www.ccichope.org.

COME CELEBRATE HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES

SUNDAY, 17 MAY, 1PM

Join the veteran communities of Danville and San Ramon together with the Board of Trustees of the Veteran Memorial Building of San Ramon Valley, at the Town Green located at 420 Front St., in Danville.

The veterans will recognize and celebrate our high school graduates who will be enlisting the United States Armed Forces or attending one of our Military Service Academies. These young women and men have answered the call to serve our country, to protect our freedoms and uphold our way of life. Join us to thank them for answering the call and their commitment to serve.

Please bring a folding or lawn chair as seating is limited.

WHAT'S HAPPENING AT MSRV IN APRIL

Museum of the San Ramon Valley’s (MSRV) exhibit on the Anza Expedition (1775–1776) tells one of the most harrowing and impressive survival stories in North American history. Led by Juan Bautista de Anza, this trek wasn’t just a military exploration; it was a massive migration that shaped the very foundation of the San Francisco Bay Area. This journey led to the founding of the Presidio and Mission Dolores and the exploration of the East Bay. Discover how careful planning and leadership paved the way for it’s success.

Stop by the Museum on Saturday, May 9th for a 2PM talk from Tom Silva titled “ Anza’s Expedition Descendants Formed California’s History.” The Anza exhibit closes on May 31st.

Discover a treasure trove of local history and fun at the MSRV store! Browse captivating books detailing our region’s rich past, or spark a child’s imagination with our delightful selection of classic games and toys. It’s the perfect spot to find meaningful gifts for every age.

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.

Danville Lions Club Presents A Taste of Danville 29th Annual Restaurant Walk & Beer & Wine Tasting Pavilion June 2nd ~ 6PM-8:30PM

food tasting ~ $25 beer & wine pavilion Beer &Wine Pavilionwith live music & dancing Behind Incontro Ristoranti, 455 HartzAve (ParkinglotacrossfromLunardi’sparkingonRailroadAve.) For tickets use QR code and pick-up a passport at will-call located at 398 Hartz Ave (old Starbucks) starting at 5PM For more information call 510-213-2530. ProceedsbenefitLionsClubCharities, LionsBlindCenter,andeducationalscholarships.

Tri-Valley Trapper

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.

This year will mark Bobby’s Brigade’s 18,000 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.

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.

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

DISCOVER ARTIST OPEN STUDIOS IN DANVILLE

Danville is one of the standout destinations of the 2026 Tri-Valley Artist Studio Tour (TVAST), a free, self-guided event featuring over 60 artists across 25+ venues throughout the region. Select studios are open Friday, May 1st, with all locations open Saturday, May 2nd and Sunday, May 3rd from 10AM to 5PM.

Visitors are invited to step inside working studios, meet the artists, and experience original artwork in the spaces where it’s created. From painting to mixed media, TVAST offers a rare opportunity to connect directly with artists and discover the stories behind their work.

To explore participating artists and plan your route, visit tvastart.com

DSR ROTARY HELPS PROTECT SENIORS OVER 100 HOMES SERVED

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR ADULT DAY CARE

Valley Oak Respite Center, located at 989 San Ramon Valley Blvd. in Danville has provided adult day care for local memory-impaired adults for more than 30 years. Caring for loved ones with dementia is a 24/7 responsibility. Respite care allows caregivers freedom for four hours a day that they would not otherwise enjoy. The program helps adults with dementia to be more social and outgoing. Activities include games, crafts, painting, drawing, exercise, sing-along music, daily facts and memory joggers.

Volunteers assist staff in providing conversation, companionship, and assistance in activities. To volunteer, you must be at least 18 years old. Occasionally, children of volunteers come in with them to experience helping seniors. Volunteers should have a genuine love for older adults.

The Danville San Ramon Rotary Club recently completed its annual Smoke Alarm Project in the Sunny Glen Senior Community, reaching more than 100 homes in a single day and helping improve safety for local residents. Led by Dennis Harvey, a dedicated Rotarian of more than 40 years and founder of this 20+ year initiative, the effort brought together 29 Rotarians, 14 Interact students, and family volunteers. In partnership with the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District, teams replaced batteries, installed approximately 70 ten-year smoke alarms, and added 38 carbon monoxide detectors. In one home, volunteers discovered there were no smoke or carbon monoxide detectors at all—highlighting the critical importance of this work.

For more information, or to become a volunteer, please visit valleyoakrespite. org or call 925-915-0095.

“This is what Rotary is all about—neighbors helping neighbors,” said Harvey. Interested in joining, learning more, or becoming part of the “People of Action”? Contact Club President Julie McKinney at 925-997-9046 or visit www.danvillesanramonrotary.org.

SRV GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY

Come join the San Ramon Valley Genealogical Society (SRVGS) for their Annual General Meeting on Tuesday, May 19th, at 10AM. In addition to annual business, they will “Celebrate America’s 250th Year.” There will be various speakers presenting Revolutionary War Ancestors and Lineage Societies (DAR and SAR). The meeting will be held in-person at the Danville FamilySearch Center, located at 2949 Stone Valley Rd, Alamo. 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. To learn more, or become a member of SRVGS, visit srvgensoc.org or email president@ srvgensoc.org.

BE A FRIEND OF THE DANVILLE LIBRARY!

He came into the library because he knew—he just knew—it would be fun. There would be more books than he’d ever seen before. It would be colorful and happy and filled with other kids his age. And, he was right. He went right over to one of the computers and started playing. He unscrambled puzzles, he connected dots, he matched pictures of baby animals, he learned. Then he heard a librarian starting to read out loud and he scampered to find a place on the floor with all the other giggling children. Everything he did in that one brief morning was supported by the Friends of the Danville Library. With monies from book sales and annual membership dues, the Friends support scores of children’s and teen programs— they have even installed carpeting in the kids’ section and upholstered benches and chairs in the Teen Zone. They have helped expand the e-book and e-audiobook collections, and added new fiction and nonfiction books for every age group. And, it’s all because of patrons like you.

So, how can you support the Danville Library?

• Shop at the Friends’ Bookstore. It’s open from 10AM to 5PM, Monday through Saturday. You can’t beat the prices you’ll find on almost every kind of book.

• Come to the monthly book sales. The next sale is Saturday, May 30th, from 10AM to 2PM at the Danville Library, 400 Front Street. Don’t miss out on great book and puzzle bargains!

• Donate your new or gently used books. All donated books find homes— and what is not sold gets donated to charities.

• Become a Friend of the Library! Come to the Friends Bookstore and fill out a member form—or you can join online at www.friendsofthedanvillelibrary.org.

Do this and you’ll make a big difference at our amazing community library.

925-451-6679 • www.DerekWagley.com

Attorney and real estate broker with 20 years experience representing buyers and sellers throughout the San Francisco Bay Area.

Derek M. Wagley Esq., Broker Associate | Keller Williams Luxury Division Trust & Probate Real Estate Specialist

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

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

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.

THE BLACKHAWK CHORUS PRESENTS

OURAMERICANMUSICALJOURNEY

The Blackhawk Chorus, a 100-voice community ensemble based in Danville, cele brates 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 Cali fornia 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 informa tion visit BlackhawkChorus. com/events

DANVILLE COMMUNITY BAND PRESENTS

MUSICALTALESOFWONDERFOR ALL AGES

Musical Tales of Wonder welcomes your “inner child” (or a guest of any age and stage) on May 16th for the final concert of the season.

The band features music from film and entertainment world that is recognizable and new for all ages, including selections from Wicked Wizard of Oz, Pokemon, The Lion King, Moana, 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

CALIFORNIA SYMPHONY’S SEASON FINALE

HEROIC RACHMANINOFF

California Symphony’s season finale rises to the occasion with a program of striking scale and power. The concert opens with the third and final commission from California Symphony by Composer-in-Residence Saad Haddad. Then, award-winning pianist Sofya Gulyak takes on Rachmaninoff’s towering Piano Concerto No. 3, known as the “Mount Everest” of piano concertos for its immense complexity. Borodin’s Symphony No. 2 fills the hall with bold melodies and dramatic force, making for a finale that’s both electrifying and deeply satisfying. Enhance your night with signature cocktails, strike a pose at the photo booth, and attend a free 30-minute pre-concert talk by award-winning instructor Scott Foglesong, one hour before the performance. Reserve your seats today to experience this concert live.

HEROIC RACHMANINOFF: Saturday, May 9th, 7:30PM and Sunday, May 10th, 4PM. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. Tickets online at californiasymphony.org or by phone at the Lesher Center Ticket Office, 925-943-7469 (Wednesday–Sunday, noon–6PM). Prices start at $50/$25 for students.

THANK YOU FOR THE MUSIC RETIREMENT CONCERT ~ KEN ABRAMS & THE DANVILLE GIRLS CHORUS

The Danville Girls Chorus (DGC), a nonprofit organization serving the Tri-Valley, announces the retirement of its esteemed Musical Director, Ken Abrams, after 34 years of dedicated service. Mr. Abrams will conclude his remarkable tenure at the chorus’s spring concert, Thank You For The Music, taking place Saturday, May 9th, at 11AM at Walnut Creek Presbyterian Church, 1801 Lacassie Avenue. A farewell reception will immediately follow the performance. For more than three decades, Abrams has played a transformative role in the lives of countless young singers, fostering not only musical excellence, but also a deep and lasting love of music. His leadership, passion, and commitment have left an enduring legacy within the organization and the broader community.

The DGC invites community members, alumni, families, and supporters to join in celebrating Abrams’extraordinary contributions and to honor the impact he has made on generations of students.

upcoming concert , “Vive La Musique,” with the elegance and energy of French classical music. Featuring works by Gabriel Fauré and Georges Bizet, the final performance will take place Sunday, May 3rd at 4PM at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church located at 66 St. Stephens Drive, Orinda.

The program features beautiful Pavane by Fauré, followed by his Pelléas et Mélisande suite. Bizet’s exuberant Symphony No. 1 concludes the program.

The CCCO is a premier community ensemble of local musicians from all walks of life. For tickets, visit contracostachamberorchestra.org/buy-tickets.

DIABLO SYMPHONY CONCERT

The Diablo Symphony concludes its 63rd season with a concert featuring Shostakovich’s extraordinary Symphony No. 5, being held Sunday, May 17th at 2PM at the Lesher Center for the Arts. The program also features works by two American composers—Aaron Copland and Daniel Pesca—that celebrate the joys and bravery of everyday existence. Composed in response to America’s entry into World War II, Copland’s “Fanfare for the Common Man” celebrates the heroism of those left on the home front. And Pesca’s Up North piano concerto, performed by the composer, takes listeners through memories of cheer, nostalgia, and family warmth experienced during summer trips to Northern Michigan during his childhood. Find program details at www.diablosymphony.org. Tickets are available at the Lesher Center for the Arts (925-9437469), through the DSO’s website, or at the door. Adult tickets are $45, and discounts for youth and groups of 10+ seniors are available; tickets for children 12 and under are free.

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!

MEN’S RETIREE SOCIAL GROUP - SIR 146 STAY ACTIVE, HAVE FUN & LIVE LONGER!

SIR Branch 146 is a vibrant social group for retired and semi-retired men in Central Contra Costa County, offering a friendly community to help you make the most of retirement. With over 240 members, SIR146 features more than 50 activity groups, including golf, hiking, travel, dining, cards, photography, and cooking. Most activities are co-ed, welcoming spouses and partners. Members enjoy a monthly luncheon with guest speakers and plenty of camaraderie. It’s a great opportunity to connect with other men who share similar interests and enjoy an active lifestyle. Founded in 1988, SIR146 helps men build friendships, stay mentally and physically active, and even live longer—members average a six year longer lifespan than other men in the county. Guests are always welcome. Learn more at sir146.com or email sir146inquiries@gmail.com.

SAN RAMON VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL

By Ben and Jack Livesay, seniors

With only one month of school left to go, the month of May is one of the busiest for students at San Ramon Valley (SRV)! With senior celebrations, school-wide events, and arts shows occurring all month long, the SRV community looks to finish off this year strong!

Starting off May is the two week cycle of Advanced Placement (AP) testing. Students take standardized tests for each AP class they took this year, with each test differing in format and length based on the subject. Students’ scores are used for earning college credit and demonstrating mastery of the topics covered.

The month offers a range of senior festivities for students in the Class of 2026 to enjoy their last month of high school together! May 1st is the celebratory day “Oh, The Places You’ll Go,” where seniors celebrate their next steps after graduation. Students wear swag from their chosen college or future path, and sign pennants at lunch to celebrate their designated commitment. The much awaited Senior Ball is set for May 9th at the California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco. The venue is themed “Enchanted Forest” and offers many exhibits, activities, and delicious food for students to enjoy. Later in the month, the Class of 2026 will travel to Anaheim for the annual Senior Disneyland Trip! Students will depart campus very early on Sunday morning in assigned buses, and drive through the night in order to spend the day at Disneyland. The park is closed off for graduating senior classes only, making this trip extra special for all of the schools that attend!

The month of May also offers opportunities to witness the talent within SRV’s Visual and Performing Arts programs, and all the hard work they put in the second semester. From April 29th through May 1st the Spring Dance Show, a multi-night production featuring all styles of dances and student-choreographed routines, will be held. This event is very popular among students and the SRV community, with tickets selling out in past years. Dancers from all five dance levels showcase their creative abilities and passion, with specialized performances from the Dance Line, Can-Can squad, and Senior Guy-Girl Dance also included. Also up on the stage is the Concert Choir Show from May 13th-14th, featuring songs and playful performances from SRV’s hardworking choir students. Lastly, the Annual Art Show takes place on May 27th in the first floor of B-building. This interactive walk-through show features pieces from students in all art classes at SRV and showcases the range of techniques and styles developed by our students.

To cap off this action packed month, the Aloha Rally takes place on May 29th! SRV’s Rally Team spends months planning activities and skits for this event, making it a spirited way for students to come together and end the year! Each class wears a designated color and competes in games, chants, and spirit competitions. With finals approaching, students focus on their grades and study for their cumulative final exams the last week of school. Teachers offer study help and tutoring through Lemonade and Learn, a stretch of study hall from May 26th-28th. Located in the library, students can work with each other and learn from teachers in each department, as well as enjoy some snacks and drinks.

May is packed with opportunities for students to celebrate their achievements, talents, and each other. Be sure to follow along and support the SRV Community and all it has to offer this month! 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!

THE GATTI REPORT: YOUR GREATER DANVILLE AREA REAL ESTATE UPDATE

By Joseph Gatti

The 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 real estate activity, and this year, the ongoing war and aftermath in Iran is creating similar ripple effects, driving oil prices higher and reshaping economic expectations. Locally, the numbers tell a surprisingly steady real estate story, yet on the ground it feels anything but the same. Inventory is rising, buyer and seller behavior is gradually shifting, and as the spring season winds down, the interaction between these forces will define where the market is headed for the remainder of 2026. For those considering selling and buying, the Gatti Team, powered by Compass, the nation’s #1 brokerage, is here to provide clarity, strategy, and confidence in an evolving landscape. On a national level, headwinds are becoming more measurable. Mortgage rates have climbed to 6.32% on a 30-year fixed loan, up from 5.98% before strikes on Iran began in February, and March existing home sales fell 3.6% — the lowest level since June 2025. What makes that figure particularly telling is that it largely reflects contracts signed before the war even started. Analysts had expected 2026 to be a recovery year for housing, but rising rates tied to Federal Reserve uncertainty have disrupted that outlook, leaving many buyers feeling frozen as geopolitical events shift faster than they can respond.

Here in the Greater Danville Area, which includes Alamo, Danville, Diablo, and San Ramon, the parallels to last year are striking. Active detached listings sit at 229 this April, compared to 231 last year. Days on market have actually improved, averaging 30 days versus 38 last year. Pending sales are identical at 82, and closed

MONTE VISTA HIGH SCHOOL

By Dr. Kevin Ahern, Principal

April simply flew by. Our return from Spring Break landed us in the middle of the month and the whirlwind of campus activities provided us with great momentum for the final weeks of the school year. Graduation is no longer just a distant goal; the Class of 2026 is officially preparing for that special day.

On April 17th, Monte Vista (MV) students participated in the Day of Silence to bring awareness and show solidarity with our LGBTQ+ community. The day concluded with our district’s annual Gayla Prom, hosted this year by San Ramon Valley High School. A huge thank you to our GSA advisor, Heather Slipka, for her leadership and dedication to our students.

On April 23rd, 22 MV student-athletes made commitments to continue their athletic careers at the collegiate level. Women’s sports were represented by Cross-Country/Track, Rowing (2), Soccer, Softball (2), Swimming (3), and Synchronized Swimming. Men’s sports included Cross-Country/Track (2), Football (3), Soccer (3), Swimming (3), and Water Polo. Thank you to these incredible scholar-athletes for representing MV so well—congratulations on taking this next step! MV’s spring Visual Arts and Performing Arts (VAPA) performances kicked off with the classic comedy The Curious Savage. The cast did an incredible job; the performance was as entertaining as it was humorous. This year’s theater season has been nothing short of amazing and it was bittersweet to see such an exceptional group of seniors take the stage for their final performances as MV students.

On April 29th, MV was proud to honor Hanh Nguyen, our day custodian, at the annual SRVEF “Night with the Stars” celebration. Hanh is an invaluable part of the MV community. He puts in countless hours in support of our students and staff, and we were thrilled to see him recognized at this event.

We kick off May with our Senior Ball on Saturday, May 2nd, at City Walk-Metreon in San Francisco. The new venue is a perfect backdrop, and our students look forward to a wonderful time. A huge thank you to our Activities Director, Tommy Greenless, our senior parents—Maureen Buttery and Kim Lind—and

HEALTH TIPS FOR TEENS HYDRATION

By Serena Hicks, MVHS sophomore

Hydration is one of the most overlooked foundations of adolescent health, yet it plays a critical role in nearly every physiological process. For teens balancing academics, extracurriculars, and social lives, maintaining proper fluid intake is not just about quenching thirst, but also positively impacting energy levels, cognitive performance, physical health, and overall well-being.

Water makes up roughly 60% of the human body and is essential for regulating temperature, transporting nutrients, removing waste, and supporting cellular function. During adolescence, the body is still developing, which increases the demand for adequate hydration. When the body is properly hydrated, the circulatory system can efficiently deliver oxygen and nutrients to tissues, which supports organ function and muscle performance. Hydration also enables the kidneys to effectively filter waste products from the blood, reducing strain on the body and helping maintain internal balance. In addition, adequate fluid levels support digestion by aiding in the breakdown of food and preventing issues like constipation.

Beyond physical health, hydration has a direct and measurable impact on cognitive function. The brain is highly sensitive to changes in fluid balance, and even mild dehydration can impair attention, memory, and mood. For teens, this may show up as difficulty focusing in class, slower information processing, or increased irritability. Proper hydration helps maintain optimal brain volume and neurotransmitter function, both of which are necessary for learning and emotional regulation. Hydration also plays a key role in physical performance and recovery. During exercise, the body relies on water to regulate temperature through sweating. Adequate hydration allows this cooling system to function efficiently, preventing overheating. It also helps maintain blood volume, which ensures that muscles receive the oxygen they need during activity. When fluid levels are sufficient, endurance improves, reaction times are faster, and the risk of cramps decreases. After physical activity, hydration supports recovery

all the parents, staff, and student volunteers who make the evening a success.

On Monday, May 4th, MV students begin our annual two-week window for Advanced Placement (AP) exams. This year, we have yet another record number of students testing. Last year, 93% of our students earned college credit, and we were honored to receive a platinum rating from the College Board. We are incredibly proud of the hard work our students and staff have put into preparing for these exams and look forward to continued academic success.

Looking ahead: VAPA in May, our VAPA programs continue to shine as the semester comes to a close:

● MV Dance will hold their Spring Dance Show on May 6th–8th at 7PM

● MV Choir will hold their Pops Concert on May 15th and 16th at 7PM.

● MV Instrumental Music will perform their spring concerts on May 27th (Symphonic Band, Wind Ensemble, and Orchestra) and May 29th (Jazz Ensembles).

● MV Visual Arts invites the community to their annual Open House on May 28th to showcase the amazing student work created throughout this year.

In athletics, MV’s spring teams are currently battling for EBAL banners and NCS playoff berths. Over the past few weeks, MV Baseball and Men’s Lacrosse notched several big victories, including wins against rival San Ramon Valley High. Our Track & Field and Swimming teams are also enjoying standout seasons and are in hot pursuit of league and section accolades as they approach their final tournaments. We look forward to seeing all our teams finish strong.

The final month of the school year is upon us, and the MV staff and students are aiming for a successful close to the spring semester. Please mark your calendars for Friday, June 5th, at 6PM when we will honor the Class of 2026 at our Commencement Ceremony.

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

by helping repair muscle tissue and restore electrolyte balance. When teens do not get adequate hydration, the effects can range from subtle to severe. Early signs of dehydration include fatigue, headaches, dry mouth, and decreased concentration. As dehydration progresses, it can lead to dizziness, rapid heart rate, and reduced coordination, which can increase the risk of accidents or injuries, especially during sports. Chronic inadequate hydration may also contribute to kidney strain, urinary tract issues, and persistent digestive problems. In more extreme cases, particularly in hot environments or during intense physical exertion, dehydration can result in heat exhaustion or heat stroke, both of which require immediate medical attention.

Another often overlooked consequence of poor hydration is its effect on overall energy and mood. Dehydrated individuals frequently report feeling sluggish, unmotivated, or mentally drained. This can create a cycle in which low energy leads to reduced activity, further impacting both physical and mental health. Skin health can also be affected, as insufficient hydration may contribute to dryness and a less resilient skin barrier, which can be a common cause of teenage acne.

It’s also important to consider what counts toward hydration. While water is the most effective and healthiest option, other fluids such as milk and herbal teas can contribute. Fruits and vegetables with high water content, like cucumbers, oranges, and watermelon, also support hydration. However, sugary drinks, energy drinks, and excessive caffeine should be limited, as they can contribute to energy crashes or interfere with the body’s fluid balance.

Developing good hydration habits doesn’t have to be complicated. Carrying a reusable water bottle, setting reminders to drink water, and pairing hydration with routine activities (such as drinking a glass of water with each meal) can make a significant difference. Paying attention to urine color is another practical strategy; pale yellow typically indicates adequate hydration, while darker shades suggest a need for more fluids.

Ultimately, hydration is a simple yet powerful way for teens to support their physical health, mental clarity, and daily performance. Making a conscious effort to stay hydrated, people can not only enhance short-term execution but also establish a foundation for long-term 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.

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

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families with loved ones on active duty and Gold Star families who have lost a service member. The blue star remains a powerful symbol for organizations supporting active-duty military and their families.

Blue Star Moms Chapter 101 has several different programs supporting both active-duty military members and veterans.

The Care Packages program provides “a little bit of home” to sons and daughters serving overseas. It isn’t just the children of Blue Star Moms members that benefit; requests are submitted on the Blue Star Moms website by family members, friends or even a fellow service member providing an address to an actively deployed service member who may benefit from a care package.

Blue Star Moms collects donations for their care packages on an ongoing basis and will assemble boxes of goodies and self-care items to let the recipients know that they are cared about and appreciated. Non-perishable, individually wrapped snacks, travel sized personal care products, drink mixes to add to water, and entertainment items like puzzle books, pens and notepads, or playing cards are welcomed donations. They can be dropped off at Coldwell Banker located at 101 Sycamore Valley Rd West, in Danville or McGuire Harley-Davidson located at 93 1st Ave North, in Pacheco.

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

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.

Operation Postcard helps interested individuals and groups come together to send notes of encouragement and appreciation to service members. Any card will do, whether greeting card, postcard, or plain piece of paper made beautiful by a volunteer. Blue Star Moms just asks for positive messages letting the recipient know that you appreciate their service. No stamp is necessary for the individual letters, and packages of letters can be sent to Blue Star Moms at P.O. Box 2537, San Ramon, CA 94583.

This is an ideal project for a classroom, club, or scouting troop to take on. Peggy shared that while her son Chris was serving, he made a collage on the wall where they were stationed with the encouraging notes and drawings received so the next group could enjoy and add their postcards as well. Peggy noted, “It is important for them to know that back home people care and are sending things they know they will like.”

In addition to their support of active-duty military, Blue Star Moms also supports veterans. It was veterans who first supported Blue Star Moms in 2001 when they began their chapter, knowing all too well the sacrifice both service members and their families make. Since then, Blue Star Moms has given back to veterans by supporting multiple organizations, such as:

WRITING MATTERS

By Linda Hora

Goal! The home team wins. The crowd goes wild. FIFA fever is coming to the States. And, along with it, soccer – known by all, played by many, mastered by few. Whether you wish to punt like Pele, bend it like Beckham, or hammer it like Hamm, you know making a goal is not as easy as they make it look. Yet, goals provide focus, a target, and sometimes, a plan. Just like every soccer star, every writer has a goal. But how does one achieve that goal?

TO WRITE WELL, REMEMBER THE GOAL

• Grammar

• Organization

• Assertion

• Logic

To achieve any goal one must break down the various components of said goal into smaller, more manageable chunks. For writing, focus on the “GOAL.” G stands for the grammar. O represents the organization. A acknowledges the assertion. L celebrates the logic. These four components all fall under that umbrella term, writing, and serve as the framework for any type of written communication. Sounds daunting, if you try to master all of them – and writing – by doing it once. But who does that?

No one who is good at anything did so once and continued with perfection. As with anything worthwhile, effort and understanding are key. To help demystify writing, I’ll focus on one component in each column. I’ll even follow the order of GOAL, so be prepared for a grammar lesson in the next column! In the meantime, if you’re looking for me, I’ll be in my backyard, counting my steps to the net, as I count down the years until I am ready to move like Messi. Of course, I may get tired and would love nothing more than to relax as I read your questions about G, O, A, or L - or of your successes on the pitch, in a paper, or for a pitch! I’ll be here at thewritinggoal@gmail.com, ready to shout “Score!” after I read your missive.

QUICK TRIPS By

Linda Summers Pirkle MONET

AND VENICE

Have you heard about Theo of Golden ? The author, Allen Levi, was in his late sixties when he wrote this bestseller. Never intending to publish it, he calls it an “accidental” novel. Levi said he wrote the book to see if he “possessed the stamina to write a long piece of fiction.” He finished the manuscript and put it away. The author credits his close-knit group of friends for urging him to do something with the book. He decided to self-publish, and his niece took on the marketing. She contacted Facebook groups and organized book talks in the area. In 2023, when 3,000 copies were sold, they were thrilled. In 2024, the book’s popularity grew slowly. Then, in 2025, in an inexplicable jump, thousands of copies were selling daily.

The story revolves around Theo, an older man originally from Portugal, who arrives in the fictional town of Golden. He finds a comfortable café where the “coffee is outstanding.” The walls are covered in pictures, all portraits that are for sale. Theo, who is in his late eighties, has an idea: he will purchase the art, reach out to the people whose faces have been drawn so beautifully, and offer to give them their pictures.

With his kindness and thoughtful listening skills, Theo is a force who affects all those who meet him. “Theo,” the author says, “is that winsome, endearing, saintly old man that kept drawing me back to the writing desk. He struck me more and more as someone I’d like to know, someone I’d like to be when I grow up.”

Apparently, many readers feel the same way.

On March 12, 2026, Theo of Golden celebrated its millionth book sold. In April, 2026, Theo rose to #3 on the combined Print and E-Book section of the New York Times Bestseller list.

Currently published by Atria Books, the Simon and Schuster imprint, editor at Atria Sean deLone said, “Everyone around the business knew it was special.”

I loved the book. It’s about the power of kindness, and I’m sure you agree, we can always use a little more of that. Incidentally, I predict an uptick in cello music being streamed. Levi’s wondrous description of the haunting sound of a memorable concert made me a convert.

I recently attended the exhibit, Monet and Venice, at the de Young Museum in San Francisco and learned the backstory of the exhibition. I was pleasantly surprised by how it dovetailed with Theo of Golden, which I was reading at the time.

Curator Melissa E. Buron, exhibition co-curator and former Director of Curatorial Affairs of the Fine Arts Museums, opened her talk before the exhibit. She shared about Monet’s creative insecurity prior to his fateful trip to Venice. He had canceled a major exhibition in 1907, and only at the urging of his devoted wife, Alice, did Monet, at age 68, visit Venice, the city of exquisite light, water, and architecture. Monet went on to paint for 20 more years. According to the curator, his sojourn in Venice was pivotal in Monet’s long career: a critical period of creative renewal that had not

been explored in depth before this exhibition.

Her talk concluded with an interesting bit of advice for us all to remember:

1. Surround yourself with people who love you.

2. Take a trip, it will energize you and even inspire you.

3. It’s never too late.

We can’t all be major artists or bestselling authors, but we can all use more kindness in our lives, strive to surround ourselves with people we love, make time for a little vacation to renew, and, lastly, remember that it is truly never too late.

Monet and Venice is at the de Young Museum, Golden Gate Park, 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive, San Francisco, CA 94118, through July 26, 2026. Tickets are available at famsf.org. The audiobook of Theo of Golden is narrated by David Morse who is a joy to listen to.

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

jennifer.lopez@fora.travel

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

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, May 12th 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.

UNDERSTANDING THE POWER AND PURPOSE OF LAFCO

By County Supervisor Candace Andersen

In the day-to-day operations of local government, many residents are familiar with the work of the Board of Supervisors or their local Town or City Council. However, there is an independent body operating behind the scenes that holds significant influence over our community: the Local Agency Formation Commission, commonly known as LAFCO. I have served on LAFCO for the past 14 years and we sometimes joke that it is “the most powerful local agency the general public has never heard of.” LAFCO is the state-mandated arbiter of where our city and district boundaries begin and where our open spaces are preserved.

The origins of LAFCO date back to the post-World War II era, a time when California was experiencing an unprecedented surge in population and economic growth. During this period, the lack of coordinated management led to “urban sprawl” and the hasty formation of inefficient municipal agencies. To provide oversight, the state legislature established a LAFCO in each of California’s 58 counties to ensure that the growth of cities and special districts remained orderly. Its mission remains clear today: to discourage sprawl, preserve vital agricultural lands, and ensure that public services are delivered efficiently.

Structurally, LAFCO is designed to be a balanced, independent watchdog. The commission is composed of seven members representing various interests: two from the County Board of Supervisors, two representing city governments, two from independent special districts, and one member representing the general public. Although the commission often meets within in a county building, typically on the second Wednesday of each month in Martinez, it is entirely separate from the Board of Supervisors. The Board has no authority over LAFCO’s decisions, and those decisions cannot be appealed to the Board; they are final.

One of the primary ways LAFCO exercises its authority is through conducting Municipal Service Reviews (MSR’s). These are comprehensive “report cards” for local agencies. Before a city can annex new land or a district can change its boundaries, LAFCO must evaluate how well that agency provides essential services like fire protection, water, and law enforcement. These reviews determine an agency’s “Sphere of Influence,” which is essentially a planning boundary that forecasts the agency’s ultimate physical footprint and service area.

A timely example of this process is currently unfolding in our own backyard. Residents of Alamo are exploring a consolidation of police services to create a single, unified Alamo Police District. Currently, the community is a patchwork of different police districts, specifically “County Service Areas”— P2B and P5, which provide enhanced patrols to some neighborhoods while leaving others, like Whitegate and Bryan Ranch, without that extra layer of service. The goal of this proposed consolidation is to provide a consistent level of enhanced safety across all of Alamo by unifying these different zones under one district.

The road to this change is a meticulous multi-step journey overseen by LAFCO. It begins with the Board of Supervisors making a formal recommendation for annexation, followed by a rigorous application process. LAFCO then steps in to conduct its own independent financial and operational review to ensure the new district is viable. A public hearing is a mandatory part of this timeline, providing a venue for residents to voice their support or opposition to the consolidation of all of Alamo into one Police District.

It is important for the community to understand the democratic safeguards built into this process. While a general election is not required for this type of consolidation, the power remains with the voters. If at least 25% of registered voters or property owners file a formal protest at the LAFCO hearing, the project is halted unless it is approved through a formal ballot measure. This ensures that major changes to local governance cannot happen without significant community consensus

The entire regulatory process typically takes about 18 months, reflecting the weight of the decisions being made. Whether it is a new police district in Alamo or the expansion of water or sewer services into previously unserved areas, LAFCO acts as the final check on how our land is used and how our taxes are spent on services. For those interested in the future of our county’s geography, these monthly meetings in Martinez offer a front-row seat to the planning of our community’s legacy.

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.

The All Wars Memorial was conceived by the Viet Nam Veterans of Diablo Valley organization in 1991, with the idea of building a living memorial to “honor all those who served – past, present, and future.” The scrappy veteran organization tried for years to raise the funds through golf tournaments and fundraisers, but after 10 years they raised only enough for a bronze statue. With the help of the greater community, the Town of Danville, and City of San Ramon, the needed funds were raised, and on Memorial Day 2005 the All Wars Memorial was “dedicated to all who sacrificed to assure our freedom.”

The finishing touches have just been completed on a major upgrade and enhancements throughout, offering new descriptions of America’s wars and timelines of all wars, additional inspirational quotes, and many new places to sit and reflect upon those who served, as well as their families.

After Lincoln’s historic words, follow him up the spiral path which is inlayed with pavers dedicated to our military veterans and patriots, and arrive at the healing circle at the top where stones inscribed with historical quotations and a commanding view of the park can be seen.

Oak Hill Park and the All Wars Memorial are located at 3005 Stone Valley Road in Danville. All areas are wheelchair accessible.

For more information about the Memorial or to order a paver, visit AllWarsMemorial.org.

For more information about the Viet Nam Veterans of Diablo Valley visit vnvdv.org

VALLEY VIGNETTE By Beverly Lane A WEEKLY PAPER TELLS ALL

Imagine a weekly newspaper which covered all that was happening in the San Ramon Valley, news, parties, politics, weddings, sports, plus editorial opinions. When the valley had a population of only 2,126 people in 1945 and grew to 58,000 people in 1988, The Valley Pioneer was avidly anticipated every Wednesday.

In 1986, writer Victoria Williams wrote a history of the newspaper which was founded by T. Eugene Haley in January 1945. She noted,T. Eugene “served as editor and publisher until 1948. John DeForest bought the paper from Haley, then sold it to Semmes Gordon in 1957. In 1956, Gordon had started The Blue Paper, a mimeographed newspaper to compete with the Pioneer.” He said “It was dreadful, we were killing them with the mimeograph.”

An early Valley Pioneer office in Danville. The VP letters were on this building and were donated to the MuseumSRV (now on display) by Semmes Gordon.

According to Williams, “ The Valley Pioneer was tabloid size, distributed through direct mail to subscribers, and grew to a paid circulation of about 1,500 by 1960.” “There weren’t many people living in the Valley at that time,” said former editor and general manager Bill Ketsdever, who served from 1960 to 1979. “It was basically a cow town. There were a few bars, a few grocery stores, a few restaurants like the Brass Door, and Highway 21 … was the only road.”

“We didn’t have any reporters,” said Ketsdever of the early 1960s. “I shot the photos and Semmes wrote the stories. Our wives helped us paste up the paper on Tuesday mornings.”

When Safeway came to Danville, they used the store’s full page ads and found they could publish a standard size broadsheet paper. More residents were attracted to Danville for the increasing availability of goods and services as the I680 freeway opened to Sycamore Valley Rd.

Semmes Gordon later wrote “There wasn’t a freeway in those days, but when the bids went out, it was Big News and we sent a team to Sacramento for the (bid) opening, hoping against hope it would be Gordon H. Ball, a local boy who had his office on Camille Ave. Gordon came in second…I’ll always remember the Guy F. Adkinson Co. (who came in first) for the full page ad it bought when we ran our freeway opening special edition” in 1964.

The newspaper covered everything, often with photographs. Ketsdever recalled going to the site of the Pacific Airlines crash in 1964 and wishing he hadn’t as there were body parts strewn over the Tassajara Valley hillside. Articles covered the sale of the Bishop Ranch to Western Electric, several Valley incorporation efforts (which all failed), the story of Sara Jane Moore who tried to assassinate President Gerald Ford, high school sports, elections, the celebrations when I680 opened, and neighborhood flooding.

One special section on August 26, 1964, touted “A Salute to Progress Honored,” featuring the first three-story building with an elevator, called the Danreco building. A reporter wrote, “The transition from farmland to residential and commercial has been in effect in the valley for over a decade, and every few years a development of particular significance reminds us of this growth. The advent of supermarkets in the valley was one such signpost, and the locating of the large commercial firms in San Ramon was another. Now along comes Danville’s first three-story office building, and the completion of this edifice has to be classified as one of the vital links in our community’s steady progress.”

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.

Noted Williams, “By 1979, The Valley Pioneer was as large as 40 pages. Thirty employees in editorial, circulation, and advertising produced the paper, published by Lesher Communications, Inc., which had purchased the paper from Gordon in 1971.”

In a visitor column in the mid-eighties, Gordon wrote, “The changes that have occurred are endless. I guess Masud and Alex Mehran probably have had as much to do with putting the once sleepy valley in the fast lane.” The Mehrans’ Sunset Development Co. purchased 585 acres of the huge Bishop Ranch in 1978.

Robert Goll, who was a reporter and editor from 1977-82, said “the Pioneer really flourished in 1981. Michael DeCal was managing editor and general manager in 1979.”

“The staff I had was exceptional,” said Goll who in 1986 was managing editor for the Valley Times. “They would do almost anything to see the Wednesday paper was the best it could be.” He said that, while the Pioneer wasn’t the only newspaper widely circulated in the Valley during the eighties, “it gave residents what no other paper could. As opposed to a daily record of the past 24 hours, it offered a focused, weekly perspective, an overview, on local news and community events.”

No wonder old timers look back on The Valley Pioneer with nostalgia.

Sources: The Valley Pioneer Aug. 16, 1964. Gordon column titled “33 Memorable Years”, Oct. 1, 1986.

WHAT SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS OWNERS GET WRONG ABOUT PERSONAL WEALTH

By Waldron Partners

In Danville and Alamo, success has a certain look and let’s be honest, a certain zip code. It shows up in successful businesses, homes with views, and calendars that include both board meetings and charity galas. Many of our neighbors have built something real. Not theoretical wealth, actual companies, actual jobs, actual impact.

Which is exactly why this tends to land a little uncomfortably: a surprising number of very successful people are quietly getting their personal wealth wrong. Not because they’re careless or uninformed. But because the same instincts that made them successful in business are, in some cases, working against them when it comes to keeping that wealth.

The first (and biggest) blind spot is this idea that “my business is my wealth.” It sounds reasonable. After all, the business is where the money came from. It’s the thing you understand, control, and spent decades building. Of course, it’s your most valuable asset…until you actually need to turn it into cash.

That’s when things get…less predictable. A privately held business isn’t like a stock you can sell one afternoon between tee times. Its value depends on buyers, timing, market conditions, and whether you still have the energy to sit through another round of due diligence meetings. Around here, it’s common to hear some version of “just a couple more years,” “a little more growth,” “a slightly better multiple,” or “one more strategic move.”

Sometimes that works. Sometimes the market shifts, interest rates move, a buyer disappears, or life simply changes faster than expected. And suddenly, the thing that felt like certainty starts to feel a lot more like concentrated risk.

Then there’s income…another area where things can look deceptively strong. Many high earners in this community are generating serious cash flow. The kind of income that, on paper, should solve just about everything. Except income isn’t wealth. It’s momentum. It only works if you keep going. It gets taxed heavily. And it has a funny way of expanding your lifestyle just enough that you never quite feel like you’ve “arrived.” Without a system for converting that income into assets that don’t depend on you showing up every day, it can become a treadmill with a very nice view.

Taxes, by the way, are the silent partner in all of this, and they’re taking a bigger cut than most people care to admit. Living in California means playing at a different level when it comes to tax exposure. Yet most planning happens after the fact. The deal closes, the check clears, and then everyone asks, “Is there anything we can do now?”

There usually was. Just not anymore.

Estate planning tends to follow a similar script. Yes, there’s a trust. Yes, documents were signed at some point and often during a particularly motivated week years ago. But wealth evolves. Laws change. Families grow more complex. And a plan that once felt thorough can quietly become outdated. The real question isn’t whether documents exist…it’s whether they still reflect reality.

And then there’s the part no one puts in a spreadsheet: what happens after the business? For decades, the company has been more than an asset. It’s been structure, identity, a reason to get up early. Remove that overnight, and what’s left? Some people transition beautifully. Others find themselves in a surprising amount of uncertainty.

It turns out that building a business and building a life after it are two very different projects. What ties all of this together is a simple truth: building wealth and managing wealth are not the same skill. One rewards focus and a willingness to take concentrated risk. The other requires stepping back, diversifying, and thinking in terms of long-term sustainability rather than growth at all costs.

People who get this right aren’t necessarily the ones who made the most money. They’re the ones who paused (usually earlier than their peers) and asked: “If everything goes right in my business, what does my personal financial life actually look like?” If that question feels a little too real, it’s probably the right time to ask it. 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

WILL & TRUST CONTESTS

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

Unfortunately, disputes often arise over the validity or enforceability of a person’s (“testator’s”) Will or Trust (“testamentary document”). Such disputes can lead to a Will or Trust contest or related litigation. This article provides an overview of the topic, including common grounds for contesting testamentary documents. I’ll also give an example of a case my firm is handling. Common grounds for contesting a Will or Trust, and if successful, potentially invalidating testamentary documents, are:

1. Lack of Testamentary Capacity: Generally, the testator must have the cognitive ability to understand the nature and extent of the property, who the close relatives are, and the disposition of assets under the document.

2. If Someone Exerts Undue Influence: Uses their position of power or trust to pressure the testator to make certain dispositions that they may not have otherwise made – validity of the document is subject to challenge.

3. Fraud or Forgery: If a Will or Trust was executed by means of fraud or forgery, it may be void or voidable.

4. Improper Execution: A Will (and to a lesser extent, a Trust) must be executed strictly in accordance with state law requirements to be valid. Less common scenarios can also sometimes support a Will or Trust contest, including when: a) the testamentary document did not strictly meet execution requirements, but the defects are considered “harmless” and the testator’s intent is clear; or b) the testator promised or contracted to make a Will or Trust and breached that contract; or c) marital or domestic partner claims are compelling and cause a judge to rule that a Will or Trust is unenforceable or must be modified for equitable reasons.

Our firm is handling a sensitive case, as outlined below (names and facts altered to protect identities). Notably, as with many cases, seemingly small and frequently innocent errors can have major unintended consequences. The testator, “Bill,” was divorced, had no children, and owned a home. Bill had a fairly new relationship with a domestic partner, Betty, and he had a close relationship to his mother, Molly. Molly had substantial doubts about her son’s relationship with Betty, and she didn’t care much for her. Nevertheless, Molly never rocked the boat, she just hoped Bill would be happy. Bill had serious medical issues and his health declined rapidly, but he still had mental capacity. His situation was simple, so he decided to prepare his own Will, using a downloaded internet form. He typed it up, providing that Betty would get everything upon his death, signed it, and had it notarized. When Bill died, Molly contacted me to ensure that Bill’s affairs would be handled properly. I informed Molly that: a) Bill’s Will was invalid because having a Will notarized is not a legal substitute for having it witnessed by two people, as statutorily required; b) since the Will was invalid, Bill died “intestate,” and thus Molly, not Betty, was the sole beneficiary; c) I could help her probate Bill’s estate; and d) Betty would inevitably hire an attorney to argue that the defect in the “Will” should be deemed harmless error and thus, the Will should be enforced. Hopefully, the matter will be resolved amicably so that litigation can be avoided. But, sometimes litigation is inevitable. Even then, we typically make a concerted effort to assist our client in settling these kinds of cases since taking them to trial is expensive, stressful, and nearly always contrary to the best interests of the parties.

If you need to have a challenging Will or Trust matter evaluated in an effort to best navigate a conflict, we would be happy to assist.

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. Advertorial

POSTCARDS FROM THE HEDGE

By Jill Appenzeller

There are things no one tells you about flower arranging. I’m not talking about the professionals, I’m talking about us. Gardeners who venture out early to see what’s in bloom, to have a few moments of peace before the day begins. With shears in hand, always with shears in hand, for even if there is not much to cut for a vase, there will be wayward branches that need a trim, spent flowers that need tidying, something taking over a path. A garden, a real garden, is hardly every tidy.

The first thing no one tells you: flowers fight back. Not just the roses, but reaching up to cut a lovely flowering branch from your cherry tree you will discover a twig digging into your arm, and then notice that it has left a bloody scratch. Or reaching to clip a sprig of lemon flowers and feeling as the thorns hiding under the leaves make a gash. Flower arranging is a blood sport.

Something else no one tells you: flowers have a mind of their own. You have an idea about how lovely that branch you’re cutting will look in a vase, drooping gracefully on one side. That branch has other ideas. Branches turn over, flop sideways, fall out, sometimes even tip the vase over.

Also: flowers shed. I love catmint, it lasts for days in a vase, plays well with others, spills gracefully over the edge. But every morning and most evenings I am sweeping up the spent blooms that it has shed. New ones open, and I know flowers don’t last forever, but I do think catmint could try a bit harder. So could salvia. And don’t get me started on David Austin roses. They are splendid for a dinner party if arranged just moments before the guests arrive, but the next morning most of the petals are in a heap on the table, and that lush vase full of flowers is now a vase full of skeletal remains.

And the water stinks. Oh, not at first, and we all arrange promising we will faithfully change the water daily, that we will carefully remove all the foliage below the water line, and then the doorbell rings, and the flowers

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with underwater foliage go into a jar with a promise to get back to them later.

Gardeners know later never comes. It is always now that demands our attention, and if we have a few spare moments we are planting or moving plants, trimming or tying up. Changing the flowers’ water gets short shrift, at least until they start to smell putrid.

My very accomplished flower friend Kathy removes all the foliage, changes the water, rinses off the stems when they get funky. I head for the compost with those stinky old flowers, and then for the garden with a basket and my shears.

Flowers stain your counter. I have a blue bearded iris, Victoria Falls, that blooms more than once (It’s called remontant, look it up) and although each flower lasts only a day the buds continue to open, and a few tall stems look smashing in a narrow-ish vase. Until they drop their old flowers, now a squishy inky mess, on my counter top. I still have one purple stain, grown fainter over the years, and a big round wooden tray where those iris live now when they are indoors.

Flowers can leave white rings on your furniture. It’s usually not the fault of the flowers, it’s the vase. I used to assume if I bought a vase, or if I bought an arrangement, or won one at garden club, said vase would be watertight. Silly me! I now test drive all vases by leaving them, full of water, on a dry paper towel overnight. You’d be surprised how many vases don’t pass the paper towel test. You can find a glass jar that fits snugly inside, you can re-purpose that vase to hold pencils or paintbrushes. You may not give it to another, without a warning, no matter how tempted.

Flowers are not just for parties. A few fragrant flowers on your nightstand, a couple of stems in sturdy vase by the kitchen sink, something cheering where you enter your home. Flowers give us a bit of healing nature inside, reduce stress, lift our moods, lower anxiety. But the lowering anxiety bit only kicks in when you give up on perfect arrangements and enjoy what you’ve created. 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.

• East Bay Stand Down, a program supporting homeless veterans in the Bay Area,

• Veterans First Initiative, a program designed to help veterans re-entering college at Las Positas College in Livermore,

• Sentinels of Freedom Scholarship Program, and

• Local VA hospitals, with visits to provide both necessities and comfort care items, like homemade pillowcases and lap blankets.

Blue Star Moms also supports Gold Star Parents by honoring their loved ones who were lost while on active duty. Blue Star Moms members help the Marines Memorial Association in San Francisco with their yearly reception and dinner to honor all California marines who have been killed during their service. The two-day event is a time to bring together the parents to provide comfort and honor their children.

Peggy notes that it’s important to remember that behind every enlisted man or woman is a family that misses and worries about them. Even when our country isn’t in an active conflict, service members still face danger every day. From global deployments to the risks associated with peacetime training, every member of the military takes an oath, and those risks are part of that equation. She notes that the sacrifice is constant, and hearing community members thank your children for their service and sacrifice provides a small measure of comfort. Having the community donate and volunteer to support the men and women sacrificing for our country makes a huge difference.

Blue Star Moms Chapter 101 welcomes mothers of active-duty military to become members, get involved, and volunteer for meaningful events to support their and others’ sons and daughters who are serving or who have been medically or honorably discharged. Associate membership is available to all other family members, spouses, and friends of those who are serving or have been honorably discharged. Blue Star Moms meets the second Wednesday of each month at 7PM at the Danville Veterans Memorial Building at 400 Hartz Avenue in Danville.

Peggy shared a message for mothers of whose children are serving right now, “If you get scared and need that support, camaraderie, and advice, we get it. We went through so much together through Iraq and Afghanistan.” Blue Star Moms is here for you. Visit www.bluestarmoms.org to learn more or donate.

TWO OAKS

By Joe Lamb, Brende & Lamb Tree and Shrub Care

If you have spent time in the East Bay hills, you know the coast live oak. It is the tree that defines the landscape — dark, dense, and evergreen, its canopy a permanent fixture against the golden hills of summer. Its trunk twists with age into forms that would make a bonsai master envious. In winter, when the hillsides go tawny and bare, the coast live oak holds its deep green, a reminder that something permanent and rooted endures beneath the seasonal theater. Drive east through the tunnel, drop into the warmer, drier valleys, and you enter the domain of the valley oak — a remarkably different creature. Where the coast live oak is dense and compact, the valley oak is monumental and open. Its massive limbs spread with a kind of baroque extravagance, reaching sometimes eighty feet in every direction. In winter, it stands bare, its great branching architecture fully revealed, a living sculpture standing boldly against the winter sky. In summer it leafs out into a broad and much appreciated cooling canopy. The valley oak is the largest native oak in North America, and in full maturity it is among the most magnificent trees on the continent.

Together, these two oaks form the living backbone of the East Bay landscape. They are also among the most important wildlife trees in North America. A mature oak can support over 300 species of insects, which in turn support the broader food web. Acorns are a keystone food source for over 100 species of vertebrates — from the acorn woodpecker, whose frenetic acorn-caching adds a jazz beat the other rhythms of oak woodland life, to deer, black bears, and band-tailed pigeons. Raptors nest in the high canopy. Scrub jays, who plant thousands of acorns each fall and forget many of them, are among the oak’s most important propagators. In a real sense, much of East Bay wildlife exists in relationship with these trees.

For gardeners, both oaks offer something rare: a sense of deep time. A well-situated coast live oak or valley oak gives a garden a quality that no amount of landscaping can manufacture. They are shade trees of the first order. On a hot summer afternoon, the temperature beneath a mature valley oak can be ten degrees cooler than the surrounding air. They are also beautiful in the way that old, living things express the beauty of nature, that is much more than merely ornamental.

Both oaks, however, require thoughtful stewardship, particularly in the urban and suburban landscape. Valley oaks produce enormous lateral limbs whose weight can exceed what the branch structure can safely bear. Coast live oaks, dense and top-heavy, are vulnerable to what arborists call column failure — the sudden catastrophic splitting of a trunk under wind load. Skilled, artful pruning reduces end-weight on vulnerable limbs, opens the canopy to reduce wind resistance, and preserves the natural character of the tree. A poorly pruned oak — one that has been indiscriminately topped or hacked — is both an eyesore and a hazard. Done well, pruning is nearly invisible. The tree looks like itself, only safer.

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

In the East Bay hills, there is a second and urgent reason to tend your oaks carefully. Ground fires climb into canopies by way of ladder fuels — the low branches that bridge the gap between burning brush and the tree crown above. Limbing your oaks up appropriately removes that ladder. Dense, unmanaged canopies that touch and overlap create a further hazard, continuous fire pathways along which fire can travel rapidly from tree to tree and from garden to neighborhood. Strategic pruning to create spacing between canopies interrupts these pathways. Tending your oaks is not only an act of care for your own property. In a community as fire-vulnerable as ours, it is an act of neighborly responsibility. At Brende & Lamb, our certified arborists have spent decades working with the native oaks of the East Bay. We understand how to prune for safety and health while honoring the character that makes these trees irreplaceable. We’d welcome the chance to visit your property for a free estimate. Call us at 510-486-8733, or visit www.brendelamb.com to see before-and-after photos, client testimonials, and work in your neighborhood. Advertorial

THRIFT STATION SEEKS NEW VOLUNTEERS

Volunteers, 18 years and older, are needed at The Thrift Station in Danville. This year the store celebrates over 50 years of serving the local community, selling new and gently used donations. Store proceeds support the exceptional, low-cost, broad-reaching mental health services provided by Discovery Counseling Center of the San Ramon Valley. Discovery’s mental health services are integrated into all San Ramon Valley public schools.

The Thrift Station is an all-volunteer organization of dedicated, welcoming, and enthusiastic volunteers supported by a large, loyal customer base. The store is open Monday through Saturday from 10AM to 4PM, and is located at 486 San Ramon Valley Blvd. in the Crossroads Shopping Center in Danville – next to Los Panchos restaurant. The phone number is 925820-1988.

If you are interested in joining the warm and welcoming volunteer family, please complete the application form at www.discoveryctr.net/the-thrift-station or email the Membership VP at Thriftvols@gmail.com. You can also stop by the store and apply in person by filling out a blue form kept near the front register. Volunteers agree to work two 3-hour shifts a month. Come join the family of volunteers!

SAFE MEDICINE, NEEDLE, & BATTERY DISPOSAL

If you have excess or expired medicines, used needles, syringes, or lancets, or have used batteries from hearing aids or other devices, there are disposal sites to safely discard of these items.

Working together, the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District, the City of San Ramon, the Town of Danville, Allied Waste Services, and Central Contra Costa Solid Waste Authority hope to reduce the risk of needle sticks, improperly disposed of medications, and used batteries in our community waste streams.

Drop-boxes are available 24/7. The boxes provide for the safe, secure, and environmentally-responsible collection. Drop-boxes for all items can be found at the Town of Danville offices inside the Police Department entrance located at 500 La Gonda Way, and a drop box for needles can also be found near the front door of the Fire Protection Districts’ Administrative Office Building, located at 1500 Bollinger Canyon Road in San Ramon.

ALAMO IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION (AIA)

By Roger Smith, President

MAY IS INTERNATIONAL MEDITERRANEAN DIET MONTH

The Mediterranean diet limits dairy, emphasizes vegetables, fruit, whole grains, legumes, nuts and seeds, fatty fish and extra virgin olive oil, and includes moderate drinking of red wine.

Your favorite healthy winter and spring goodies can be found at your Alamo Certified Farmer’s Market with the best and the freshest fruits (oranges, apples, strawberries, and blueberries) as well as vegetables (green leaf, broccoli, early tomatoes and root vegetables) all which are full of taste, vitamins, nutrition and fiber! There is fresh fish as well as meat available too!

SPRING CELEBRATION!

Mark your calendars for our 13th annual Spring Celebration on May 17th! Join us from 10AM to noon for the Kid’s Zone. There will be games and prizes, a puppet and ventriloquist artist, as well as a drawing for a basket of goodies from the Market (winner need not be present to win)!

In addition, there will be Taste of Texas BBQ, Crazy Empanadas, and Boco Bites (Gourmet French) foods for your takeout enjoyment.

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.

WILDFIRES & EMERGENCY EVACUATION

PREPARATIONS

Get prepared for wildfire season and potential emergency evacuations. Join us for an in-depth presentation and discussion, and find out how to be safe!

Roy Wendel of the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District will present a PowerPoint and Q&A session via Zoom on Thursday, May 21st at 6PM The presentation will include: perimeter planning for clearing shrubbery, trees and plantings; how to save your home, yourself, family, pets, and meds; do’s and don’ts for emergencies; where do you go; triage/supply locations; evacuation mapping process, and evacuation routes planning.

Do you know when was the last major fire in Las Trampas? Does Cal Fire or the SRVFPD have any plans for prescribed burns? Who is responsible for building fire breaks between the wildland and housing? How often are fire hydrants checked and how are they maintained? Would evacuation by bicycle work if roads are closed by disabled autos? Look for details at www.AlamoCA.org AIA 2026

ANNUAL REPORT

Watch for your upcoming AIA 2026 Annual Report, ballot, and membership form, then complete and return to AIA, P.O. Box 156, Alamo, CA. 94507

Now celebrating its 71st year, AIA, a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, has an outstanding history of serving our community and helping shape it into “Alamo - the place where we love to live”!

Visit www.AlamoCA.org and www.AlamoVision2040.org for information on AIA, articles of interest to Alamo residents, membership and more!

Don’t be left out, now is the time to renew or become a new member of AIA!

TECHNOLOGY MATTERS

By Evan Corstorphine, Portable CIO FAUX ADS

This morning, while reading a news site on my iPhone, the (below) pictured full-screen pop-up appeared on my phone claiming my Apple ID was locked and demanding I take immediate action. As you can see it looked pretty good for a fake pop-up. It was 100% fake and 100% nasty. This is called a poisoned advertisement, and they are everywhere. Here is what happened: A malicious advertiser wrote nasty code that created a fake virus alert and embedded it into a fake ad. They paid to place the ad on a legitimate website. When the ad is served, it launches a full-screen pop-up this one looks like it is from Apple, but it could be masquerading as Microsoft, HP, Dell, your bank, etc. It looks real because they spent time making it look real. The goal is simple: get you to click the button, which will install malware, or surrender your credentials.

The truth is that advertising networks have lost control of their own platforms. Publishers want traffic and ad networks want volume. Nobody stops to verify what is being sold through their pipes. By the time a scam gets flagged and removed, it has already landed on millions of screens. It is not a new problem, but it is getting worse.

We have been getting calls on this variant for years. Someone on a Mac or PC, and now our phones, suddenly sees a hysterical full-screen alert, hears a blaring horn sound, and they see a huge warning about a virus infection. The message is urgent: “Call this number NOW because your computer is compromised!” This faux-virus alert locks your controls, and unless you know how to CTRL-ALT-DEL, open Task Manager and kill the browser, or swipe up and delete the page from your phone, you freak out.

The person who gets this has done nothing wrong. They were simply browsing and got unlucky when that ad was served onto the page they were viewing at that moment. It was random. And now, they are genuinely terrified because the warning looks official and sounds official, and the blaring noise sells the panic. There is no actual infection. Closing the browser or shutting down the computer or phone makes it go away. But, many people do not know that, so they call the number on the screen, which is answered by someone in a call center who will offer to “fix” the problem for $200 or more.

What do you do? First, know what is real and what is not. Apple, Microsoft, and your bank will never warn you with a full-screen pop-up on a website. If they need you to take action, they will send you an email or a notification through their own app. A pop-up on a random web page is not them.

Second, if you see a locked screen with a blaring noise, close the browser completely, or simply hold down the power button until your computer or phone powers off. When the computer reboots everything will look normal again. Go back into your browser and clear the cache, because that is where the bad code is stored. If you’re unsure how, Google “how to clear cache in Chrome (Edge, Firefox, etc.) It is simple.

Third, never do what they ask, and never call the number on the screen. EVER. If you are genuinely concerned, open a new browser, go directly to Apple’s website or your bank’s website by typing the address yourself.

Finally, you can call or text Portable CIO at 925-552-7953 and ask us. And, if you’re still unsure you can bring the device or machine in. I can walk you through what happened and scan your machine to make sure nothing was installed. These scams work because they prey on fear. They look official. They sound urgent. And they catch people doing nothing wrong in the wrong place at the wrong time. Don’t be a victim!

Questions? Call Portable CIO at 925-552-7953 or email info@pcioit. com. Advertorial

THE IT PROBLEMS MOST BUSINESSES DON’T SEE UNTIL IT’S TOO LATE

By Jeremy Davis, CloudMinders

Not long ago, I sat down with a local business owner who was frustrated. Their team was working hard, sales were steady, and on the surface everything looked fine. But behind the scenes, things felt off. Employees were wasting time, systems were slow, and small issues kept piling up. Nothing was breaking completely, but nothing was running smoothly either. After a short review, the problem became clear. It was not one big issue. It was a series of small, overlooked technology decisions that had quietly added up over time. I see this pattern often with otherwise successful businesses. As technology continues to evolve, especially with the rise of AI, the gap between businesses that are intentional with technology and those that are not is growing quickly. One framework I have found helpful is the Hierarchy of Work. At the bottom are tasks like communicating, processing, and investigating. These are repetitive and increasingly handled by technology. Above that line are solving problems, making decisions, and imagining what is next. That is where people bring real value. The problem is many organizations are still spending too much time below that line.

For many businesses, IT is something you deal with when it breaks. But the companies that are growing are using technology and automation to handle lower-level work automatically. That shift is not just about efficiency. It is about money. Let’s put it into perspective. If you have a team of 10 employees and each person loses just 15 minutes a day to slow systems, extra steps, or manual work, that is 2.5 hours per day across your team. Over a week, that becomes 12.5 hours. Over a month, roughly 50 hours. Over a year, that is 600 hours of lost productivity.

If the average fully burdened cost of an employee is $40 per hour, that is $24,000 per year lost to inefficiency from just 15 minutes a day. Now take it a step further. If you can give each employee back one hour per day through better systems, automation, or AI, that same team gains 2,400 hours per year. That is nearly $100,000 in productivity recovered.

This is why ROI on technology matters. Small inefficiencies compound quickly, and so do improvements. Most businesses do not intentionally build a complicated IT environment. It happens over time. A new tool here, a workaround there, and different systems that do not connect. The result is your team gets stuck doing more manual work than they should. Processing, searching, and fixing things instead of solving meaningful problems. Instead of technology elevating your team, it traps them in lower value work, which directly impacts your bottom line. One of the most overlooked issues I see is businesses adapting to inefficiency instead of fixing it. People get used to slow systems, extra steps, and constant workarounds. Every minute lost might feel small, but when multiplied across your team, it becomes expensive. Efficiency is not just about speed. It is about reclaiming time and turning it into productive output.

Cybersecurity is often treated as something to deal with later, but most risks are quiet. Weak passwords, missing backups, and gaps in access control may not seem urgent, but when something goes wrong, the cost is immediate and significant. Downtime, data loss, and reputational damage can far outweigh the cost of doing things right up front.

Another common issue is investing in tools without fully implementing them. Businesses pay for software but still rely on manual work. That is a missed opportunity. Technology should reduce effort and create leverage, not sit unused in the background.

Most businesses do not have a technology problem. They have a focus problem. They are spending too much time on work that sits below the line, where automation and AI can now help.

The opportunity today is not just to do things faster. It is to shift your team’s time toward higher value work that drives growth. When you get that right, the return is not incremental. It compounds quickly.

If you are curious how much time and money your business might be losing to inefficiency, we are always happy to help take a look. Feel free to reach out to our team at info@cloudminders.com to schedule a time to talk.

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.

SELF-GUIDED DANVILLE TOUR

The Discover Danville walking tour is available to enhance your experience while visiting Downtown. Whether you’re a longtime resident or new to the area, this interactive tool provides a unique way to explore the vibrant community.

Danville is home to hidden gems, from historic landmarks to charming local shops and delightful restaurants. The site not only highlights these treasures but encourages residents and visitors to discover and appreciate everything Danville has to offer.

The tour guides users through local retail and dining spots, and supports local entrepreneurs and small businesses, helping sustain the town’s unique charm. The site also features historical context, allowing users to view photos of “what used to be,” while walking through town.

Visit www.danville.ca.gov/DiscoverDanville on your mobile device, select the “Historic Sites TOUR” and begin!

SKINtheNEWS

By Jerome Potozkin, MD

MAY IS SKIN CANCER AWARENESS

MONTH ~ WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to educating the public about the most common forms of cancer in the United States, and the importance of prevention and early detection. Skin cancer affects millions of Americans each year, but when caught early, it is often highly treatable if not curable. The most common cause of skin cancer is exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. UV rays come primarily from the sun but are also emitted by tanning beds. Over time, UV radiation damages the DNA in skin cells, leading to mutations that can cause uncontrolled cell growth and cancer. Repeated sunburns, especially during childhood, significantly increase the risk. Other factors that contribute to skin cancer include fair skin, a history of excessive sun exposure, use of tanning beds, a weakened immune system, and a family or personal history of skin cancer.

There are several types of skin cancer, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. While basal and squamous cell carcinomas are the most common and generally less aggressive, melanoma is the most dangerous form. Melanoma has the potential to spread to other parts of the body if it is not detected and treated early. Fortunately, when melanoma is caught in its earliest stages, the cure rate is extremely high.

Because of this, early detection is critical. Everyone should become familiar with their skin and watch for new or changing moles or spots. Dermatologists often recommend the ABCDE rule to help identify suspicious lesions that could represent melanoma:

• A – Asymmetry: One half of a mole does not match the other half.

• B – Border: The edges are irregular, ragged, or poorly defined.

• C – Color: The color is not uniform and may include shades of brown, black, red, white, or blue.

• D – Diameter: The spot is larger than about 6 millimeters (roughly the size of a pencil eraser), although melanomas can sometimes be smaller.

YOUR PERSONAL NUTRITIONISTS

HOW MUCH IS TOO MUCH PROTEIN?

By Linda Michaelis RD, MS and Jackie Peterson RD CDCES

High-protein diets continue to be the rage. The media may have you believe we are all deficient and there is no such thing as too much protein. Here’s what protein does in the body, how much is too much, and how much you really need. THE BENEFITS OF PROTEIN

Protein plays an important role in bodily functions and regulating hormones, while providing structure to muscles, skin, hair, organs, and bones. Protein is integral in wound healing, tissue repair, and muscle function.

Protein-rich foods slow digestion, which dulls the blood sugar response and keeps us feeling fuller for longer. The daily amount of protein each of us need is individual and is based on height, weight, sex, and activity level.

The average healthy adult needs around 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight to keep muscles intact. For most women this is about 46 grams of protein per day (7 oz.) and for most men it is about 56 grams (8 oz.) per day. For people who are extremely active they need a protein intake of 0.8 to 1.2 grams per kilogram.

The food label lists protein in grams. The equivalent is 1 oz. of protein is equal to 7 grams. Greek yogurt has 14 grams of protein per cup so you get 2 oz. of protein.

We work with many adults who take GLP’s for weight loss. Often they don’t take in the minimum requirement of protein. They experience hair loss, and breaking down of their lean body mass which is our active metabolism.

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN WE EAT TOO MUCH PROTEIN?

There is also a trend that people are getting more protein than they need. Health reports find that many consume double the amount of protein than is needed.

The body can only absorb so much protein at one time for muscle development. Science states we can only absorb 30 grams of protein (4 oz.) at one sitting. More than that won’t turn into extra muscle, unless you’re using that muscle by breaking down through strength training. You can eat 30 grams of protein every three to four hours. If you eat more calories than your body needs to maintain its current weight, the excess protein may be stored as fat. Excess protein in the absence of excess calories does not turn into fat, it just makes your kidneys work harder to filter out the extra protein.

• E – Evolving: The mole is changing in size, shape, color, or symptoms such as itching or bleeding.

If you notice any of these warning signs, it is important to have the spot evaluated by a dermatologist.

Treatment for melanoma depends largely on how early it is detected. When melanoma is diagnosed in its earliest stage and confined to the skin, treatment is typically surgical removal. In many cases, a simple outpatient procedure to remove the cancer and a margin of surrounding tissue is curative.

For more advanced melanoma that has spread beyond the skin, treatment options have improved dramatically over the past decade. Modern immunotherapy medications work by stimulating the body’s immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells. These therapies have significantly improved survival for patients with advanced melanoma and have transformed what was once a very difficult disease to treat.

The key message of Skin Cancer Awareness Month is simple: protect your skin and check it regularly. Using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, avoiding tanning beds, and seeing a dermatologist for routine skin exams can make a lifesaving difference. Early detection truly saves lives.

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

MEALS ON WHEELS VOLUNTEER PROGRAMS

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.

Since extra protein is filtered through the kidneys, it gets excreted from the body as nitrogen-rich urea (nitrogen is the building block of protein). Excessive protein intake over long periods of time can be taxing on the kidneys contributing to kidney problems.

Eating too much protein can also cause dehydration and bad breath due to ketosis (if you’re combining high protein intake with extremely low carbohydrate intake). If you have foamy urine, this could be a sign of kidney damage. HOW TO GET THE RIGHT AMOUNT

OF PROTEIN

Learn how much protein is appropriate for your body and lifestyle/activity level. Using the equation for the average adult you should aim to consume roughly 0.8 grams of protein per 1 kilogram of your body weight (don’t forget to convert your bodyweight from pounds to kilograms first!). We can help you know exactly how much protein you need.

We recommend that you eat a mix of plant and animal-based proteins. Opting for a mix (if you do eat meat, eggs, and dairy), gives you a higher boost of not only protein, but fiber, vitamins, minerals, and plant compounds as well. Plant-based protein options include nuts, seeds, dark leafy greens, tofu, tempeh, whole grains, and legumes such as lentils, beans, and peas.

Animal-based foods, like meat, fish, eggs, and dairy, are high bioavailable sources of protein, but they can add up quickly throughout the day

Concentrated sources of protein like protein powders and bars are fast and convenient. However, they can tip you into too-much-protein territory. Some options contain upwards of 20 grams of protein per serving. When you get adequate protein without these supplements, adding high-protein products can send you over your daily needs when combined with all the other food you eat in a day. I find protein shakes and bars do not give clients a fullness and they would do better eating real foods like Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, tuna, or hummus in between meals.

We would be happy to help you set up a personalized plan based on your lifestyle and favorite foods. Food is a celebration of life, and we strive to make sure you enjoy your meals.

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

WHY TOXINS MAKE YOU HAPPY

By Dr. Barbara Persons, MD, FACS

We tend to believe emotions begin in the mind and appear on the face. The reverse is also true. The way your facial muscles move can shape how you feel. It is a refined, quiet, feedback loop, one that neuromodulators (also called neurotoxins) like Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, Jeuveau (which I call Joy Tox), and Daxxify allow us to influence with precision. If you find yourself frowning at your phone, narrowing your eyes at a screen, or holding tension between your brows, you are not alone. Over time, these repeated contractions do more than create lines. They establish a pattern. Your brain begins to associate those positions with stress, worry, and fatigue. What is less obvious is that many of these same expressions continue while you sleep, subtly reinforcing them overnight. This is where thoughtful treatment becomes powerful. When the muscles responsible for tension are selectively softened, the brain receives different signals. The facial feedback hypothesis suggests that limiting the ability to frown can shift emotional tone. Patients often describe a sense of ease, a lighter baseline, a quieter mind. This is not about erasing movement. It is about editing it. Removing the excess, preserving what is the beautiful normal, and restoring a sense of calm to the face. The effect extends beyond the forehead. The platysma in the neck exerts a downward pull that can contribute to a strained or fatigued appearance. When released with intention, the entire lower face appears more at rest, and patients often feel it as much as they see it. Each neuromodulator carries its own characteristics. Onset, longevity, and diffusion vary. The distinction lies in selection and placement, guided by a detailed understanding of facial anatomy and muscular interplay. Most treatments use between 40 and 100 units, with some beginning conservatively at 20 units in the glabella, the “11 lines.” This treatment is about refinement. A subtle alignment between how you feel and how you present. If you have been considering neuromodulators, do it before the summer. Allow time for the result to settle into something effortless. As a plastic surgeon, my approach is grounded in surgical anatomy. The outcome is crafted to be both natural, and unmistakably yours. To help you de-stress about how expensive everything has become, we are offering $200 off per 100 unit bottle or multiple bottles. You must mention or bring in this article, and the bottle/s be purchased in person or by phone before June 1, 2026. This offer may not be combined with other offers.

If you are interested in learning more, you can request a consultation with Dr. Barbara Persons. Dr. Persons, MD, FACS is a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and owns Persons Plastic Surgery, Inc., located at 911 Moraga Rd, Suite 205 in Lafayette and 1120 Second Street, Suite A Brentwood. She can be reached at 925-283-4012 or drpersons@personsplasticsurgery.com. Advertorial

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, call 925-314-3430.

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 925-2842215. For more details, visit www.mobilitymatterscc.com.

THE EYE OPENER MAY IS HEALTHY VISION MONTH

By Gregory Kraskowsky, O.D., Alamo Optometry

Since May is National Healthy Vision Month, I thought it was a good time to write about actions our patients can take to ensure their eyes are as healthy as they can be. Even though this list is not all inclusive, the most important topics will be addressed. When it comes to healthy eyes, the most important thing to do is to have an annual comprehensive eye examination. In addition to assessing vision to determine any needed eyewear or contact lenses, the health of the eyes is also evaluated. Tests such as visual fields, pupil function, and ocular motilities are used to determine any optic nerve or neurological deficits. Tonometry is conducted to measure the pressure in the eye which is a factor in diagnosing glaucoma. Examining the front portion of the eye with the microscope allows detailed viewing of the cornea and conjunctiva to ensure healthy tissue. One of the most important tests that need to be conducted is dilation (as required) with retinal screening. This includes Optomap, which takes a wide-field digital image of the retina, and Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT), which takes an in-depth look at the specific layers of the retina and optic nerve to look for any irregularities or pathology. Most people do not like dilation because of the light sensitivity and decreased reading ability; however, it can give invaluable information about eye and overall health. By being able to see the entire retina through a dilated pupil, all the structures of the retina including the optic nerve, macula, and the blood vessels can be evaluated. Conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, cataracts, retinal holes and tears, and macular degeneration can either be diagnosed and/or monitored through dilation and OCT. For most patients, including children, we recommend dilation and the retinal screening tests to be part of your yearly examination in addition to your overall medical care.

In addition to maintaining good eye health, it is also equally (if not more

so) important to maintain your overall health. It has been shown that people with vision impairment are also more likely to suffer from diabetes, heart problems, strokes, and depression. Even though some conditions are genetic and are not brought about by any direct personal action, it is nonetheless extremely important to live as healthy a lifestyle as possible. Eating foods rich in antioxidants (i.e., green leafy vegetables) and omega-3 fatty acids (i.e., fish), maintaining a healthy weight, and stopping or not starting smoking, will go a long way in maintaining overall health. Since the retina requires a large blood supply, many issues that can affect blood and blood flow will manifest itself in the back part of the eye.

The need to protect the eyes during sports activities and during home activities such as yard or garage work, or any potentially harmful work-related activities is another way for the eyes to remain healthy. Any blunt trauma, foreign body, or getting chemicals in the eye can cause permanent vision loss. In addition, UV exposure can lead to early cataracts, macular degeneration, and pterygium growth (yellowish raised lesions on the eye which tend to get red and dry). Wearing UV-blocking sunglasses, especially for children, can help mitigate the harmful rays from the sun.

Most types of vision loss can be prevented or reduced by doing the things discussed above. Knowing your family’s medical and ocular history is also a tool to use to help combat these conditions. If there is a genetic component to your family’s eye issues, it will help you get proper care earlier because of the increased likelihood of the person being more aware and educated regarding the signs and symptoms of the condition. The more you take care of your body, your body will take care of you.

Dr. K. at Alamo Optometry is your hometown eye doctor for outstanding service, vision care, and designer eyewear. He can be reached at (925) 8206622, 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

PAIN SHOULDN’T BE THE END OF YOUR STORY

By Dr. Niele Maimone, DC

At Align Healing Center, our work did not begin with a trend. It began the same way so much of my work has begun over the last 26 years: by looking for better ways to help people feel better, look better, and live better lives.

That has always been my mission.

In 2018, that path became deeply personal when my best friend was struggling with rheumatoid arthritis. We began asking whether there might be a way to support true healing and reduce her dependence on medication. Since walking that road together, she has come off all medications and is now living a very full life.

That experience opened a new door for me.

As I learned more, I decided to use stem cells myself. What surprised me was not just what I hoped they might do, but the benefits I personally experienced. Over time, I came to see them as a powerful way to support the body’s healing and resilience through the aging process. Since then, I have continued using them as part of my own wellness regimen and have added them to the evolution of Align Healing Center.

Most people are not trying to be 25 forever. They simply want to stay active, move with less pain, recover more easily, think clearly, and enjoy the life they have worked so hard to build. But what I see so often is that as people age, they begin to accept joint pain, stiffness, inflammation, and slow recovery as if they are just the unavoidable price of getting older. That belief often leads to something even harder: hopelessness.

I do not believe hopelessness should be part of aging.

Yes, the body changes with time. There is wear and tear, oxidative stress, inflammation, and the effects of old injuries and daily stress that add up over the years. But as long as your body is alive, it still has the ability to heal. Sometimes it simply needs the right support, the right environment, and the right signal.

That is why I am so passionate about regenerative medicine, including stem cell therapy.

When I talk to patients about stem cells, I do it honestly. I am not interested in hype. I am interested in offering hope and thoughtful options. These therapies are designed to support the body’s own repair processes and create a better environment for healing. For the right person, that may mean support for painful joints, inflammation, recovery, function, and quality of life. They are not a magic fix, and they are not usually a one-time answer to aging. Aging is ongoing, so it makes sense to support the body in an ongoing, intentional way too.

One patient story has stayed with me. A man came in after retiring at age 62 with a big bucket list ahead of him, but hip pain was already changing his plans. Golf no longer sounded fun. Travel felt harder than it should. He was afraid this next chapter of life would be smaller than he had imagined. After treatment, he noticed a marked difference within a week, and over time he was able to get back to living the life he had worked so hard for

I also want people to understand that they do not need to leave the country to access regenerative therapies. These options are available right here in their own town, in a setting where care is more comprehensive, holistic, and supportive over time. At Align, this is never just about one treatment. It is about helping people age with strength, movement, resilience, and hope.

If you are feeling older than you want to feel and are ready to explore what options may be available, visit alignhealingcenter.com or call 925-362-8283 to learn more. Individual results vary, and the best first step is a thoughtful evaluation to see what fits your body and your goals.

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

THE TOXIC HIDDEN LINK BEHIND YOUR BRAIN FOG, GUT TROUBLE, AND CRUSHING FATIGUE

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

Here is the hard truth: most people are chasing symptoms while the real problem keeps getting worse underneath. They try to eat clean, buy bargain supplements, and push through the day with caffeine, willpower, and stubbornness. Yet the bloating, diarrhea, constipation, reflux, food reactions, and abdominal pain stay. The fatigue, inflammation, joint aches, headaches, and weight gain stay. The brain fog, anxiety, low mood, poor focus, failing memory, and loss of drive stay. They begin to wonder if this is just aging, burnout, or stress. It is not. In many cases, the real problem is a hidden toxic overload that begins to damage the membranes of your cells, and once that happens, your whole body can start to malfunction.

Those cell membranes are made in large part from phospholipids. Most people have never heard that word, but they should. Phospholipids help build the outer barrier of every cell in your body. Your gut, brain, and liver cells all need them. Even the tiny parts of your cells that make energy, called mitochondria, need them. They help decide what gets in, what stays out, how nutrients are absorbed, how toxins are removed, and how well your cells “talk” to one another. When toxic burden, stress, inflammation, stealth infections, mold, heavy metals, poor diet, or medications damage those phospholipids, the body begins to break down in ways most doctors never connect.

That is when people start living with symptoms they cannot explain. The gut barrier weakens, so irritating compounds can slip through and trigger bloating, IBS, SIBO, leaky gut, food sensitivities, autoimmunity, and chronic inflammation. The brain’s protection weakens, so people feel foggy, forgetful, anxious, mentally slower, depressed, and unlike themselves. Energy production drops, so even after a full night’s sleep they wake up tired, drag through the day, lack libido, and feel like they are aging too fast. They are told their labs are “fine,” yet they know something is deeply wrong.

This is why your microbiome, detox capacity, and lipid balance are so important. It gives us a far more advanced way to look at chronic fatigue, brain fog, weakened immunity, metabolic and hormonal slowdown, gut trouble, and accelerated aging. Instead of asking, “What pill matches this symptom?” we ask, “What is damaging the cells, burdening detox, breaking down the gut-brain connection, and preventing the body from working properly?” That is a far smarter question. And it leads to a far more powerful solution.

At The Real Gut Doctor, Jeffrey Mark, M.D., a 5X board-certified physician, together with Frances Mark, Pharm.D., a UCSF-trained specialist in drugfree functional, regenerative, metabolic, and longevity medicine, understands this hidden toxic link at a far deeper level than conventional care. With over 60 years of combined clinical experience treating complex patient cases, we know how to evaluate and address the deeper root causes behind chronic fatigue, gut breakdown, inflammation, autoimmunity, brain fog, ADHD, autism-related challenges, and metabolic decline. We help rebalance the microbiome, restore damaged phospholipids, calm inflammation, optimize detox pathways, and help your cells function the way they were designed to function again. This is not symptom chasing. This is elite precision root-cause medicine.

When toxic burden is severe, advanced strategies may be needed to help lower the load on the body. One of those advanced options is Therapeutic Plasma Exchange, or TPE, a medical approach used in carefully selected cases to help remove harmful substances from the bloodstream. In the right hands, and for the right person, this can become part of a deeper healing strategy to reduce toxic burden, calm inflammation, quiet autoimmunity, remove bad lipoprotein(a), and help the body regain its ability to repair, regenerate, and perform.

If your body feels harder to live in than it used to, do not ignore it. If your gut is more reactive, your mind feels slower, your energy keeps slipping, and your health feels like it is quietly unraveling no matter how hard you try, that is not a message to push harder. It is a warning sign. The toxic hidden link may be the reason you still do not feel well. And it may also be the missing clue that finally points you toward the right answer. Come see Dr. Mark, The Real Gut Doctor, and discover whether toxic burden and damaged phospholipids are the real reason your body has not been working properly. Call The Real Gut Doctor today at 925-736-9828, visit www.TheRealGutDoctor.com. 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

jon@ahernregroup.com ahernrealestategroup.com

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

for those

the finest complete dental care in one location. In her spare time, Dr.