editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
APRIL 2017 • LAFAYETTE TODAY • PAGE 1
APRIL 2017
SENIOR CENTER WITHOUT WALLS
By Linda Summers Pirkle
The kitchen wall phone of yesteryear (usually in a pastel blue, sunny yellow, or white) allowed the user to cradle it under her chin, stir the contents of a bowl, and wipe down the counter to the distance that corresponded with the farthest reach of the extra -long cord; all the while chatting with a best friend. Do you remember when dialing the telephone was one of the quickest and easiest ways to reach out to friends and colleagues? With all the forms of technology available today including email, texting, Facebook, Snapchat, Skype, G-chat etc., the old fashioned telephone is often times overlooked as a technology of its own. However, since 2004, hundreds of seniors, many of whom are from the generation who prefer to use old school tech, take part in Senior Center Without Walls, an award-winning program offering activities, education, friendly conversation, and an assortment of classes, support groups, and presentations, all by real time group telephone calls. Based in San Francisco, Senior Center Without Lynn Rayburn, one of the original participants in the Senior Center Walls (SCWW) is a subWithout Walls program noted, “I discovered Senior Center Without sidiary of Episcopal Senior Walls was the ideal place for me. I’d been a social worker all my life, Communities. Katie Wade, I had that need to be needed. That was the most important thing.” Program Manager with SCWW, shared her thoughts on the program and its success with its many participants, “Before I came to SCWW, I didn’t think of the phone as a technology. But now, I realize this basic technology, the telephone, is a great equalizer. Not only do most people have access to a phone, but there is a special component to meeting someone over the telephone. Because we can’t see each other, many stereotypes are stripped away; we’re able to get to know each other’s heart and thoughts without the trappings of bias.” Chris Dana, Culinary Artist and Episcopal Senior Community executive recently facilitated a SCWW cooking program via telephone and video conference with mouthwatering descriptions of a tantalizing menu of green papaya and carrot salad, curry catfish and kale with lime jasmine rice, and a toasted coconut cheesecake. Besides giving tips on cooking, he described his childhood in Fresno, California where he was exposed to fine cuisine with inspired family meals created by his mother who loved to experiment in the kitchen. The program lasted 45 minutes, and participants asked questions and shared some of their thoughts on the presentation which appropriately ended at noon, just in time for lunch. There are hundreds of seniors in the Bay Area who call in for programs about politics, art, religion, travel, health, and much more. Not only do they learn about subjects, but they also have the opportunity to share their thoughts. One participant, Stephanie, shared her ides on the importance of the programs in her life. With the new friends she made on her Gratitude Session with SCWW, she “dared to share” a difficult problem she was going through. With the perspective of a new phone friend, she was able to look at her dilemma through a different lens and said, “I felt a burden lift.” She added, “I feel grateful for being heard.” Senior Center Without Walls started in 2004 with six participants. In January 2016,
SEE CENTER CONTINUED ON PAGE 20
Local Postal Customer
PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID Permit 21 Lafayette, CA
ECRWSS
LAFAYETTE EARTH DAY FESTIVAL TO FOCUS ON SUSTAINABLE YOUTH
The City of Lafayette and the Lafayette Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with local non-profit organization Sustainable Lafayette, will host the city’s 12th annual Earth Day Festival at the Lafayette Library and Learning Center. The theme of this year’s festival is “Sustainable Youth,” and the event will showcase local youth groups as well as exhibitors who will provide attendees with inspiration and awareness about how to make their local community more sustainable and connect them with opportunities to help. The Festival will take place from 11am to 3pm on Sunday, April rd 23 on Golden Gate Way behind the Lafayette Library and Learning Center, and at the plaza of the library, located at 3491 Mt. Diablo Blvd in Lafayette.
SEE EARTH CONTINUED ON PAGE 14
PACIFIC MAHJONG LEAGUE
By Fran Miller
If the game of Mahjong has ever piqued your interest, the Pacific Mahjong League (PML) invites you to learn more. This fun and sociable
game combines a balance of luck, skill, and strategy that makes for intriguing competition. And it can be played for a lifetime. The game is also widely believed by researchers to aid memory. The game of Riichi Mahjong often appears overly complicated, says Daniel Moreno, a PML organizer. “Even those who know how to play often find it difficult to teach others effectively. But luckily we have some people at the club who are amazing teachers that have experience teaching hundreds of people. So feel free to come; anyone can learn how to play!” Mahjong is a tile-based game that originated in China during the Qing Dynasty. It is played between four
SEE MAHJONG CONT. ON PG. 18
Volume XI - Number 4 3000F Danville Blvd #117 Alamo, CA 94507 Telephone (925) 405-6397 Fax (925) 406-0547 editor@yourmonthlypaper.com Alisa Corstorphine ~ Publisher
The opinions expressed herein belong to the writers, and do not necessarily reflect that of Lafayette Today. Lafayette Today is not responsible for the content of any of the advertising herein, nor does publication imply endorsement.
PAGE 2 • LAFAYETTE TODAY • APRIL 2017
CALL FOR ENTRIES FOR LAMORINDA SHORTDOCS FILM FEST
Lamorinda Arts Council (LAC) will host their 2nd Annual ShortDocs Film Fest at the Lafayette Library and Learning Center on May 7th at 3PM. This documentary film festival provides local filmmakers an opportunity to create new work as well as showcase it at a community screening. “I am excited to produce this festival for the second time,” said Meredith Friedman, Festival Founder and Managing Director of LAC. “Last year’s festival was inspiring, featuring movies from first-time filmmakers and veterans alike. Digital film production is the future of media, and I feel privileged to offer artists another opportunity to share stories through film.” Entries for the Lamorinda ShortDocs Film Fest will be accepted from now until April 19th. The competition is open to anyone five years of age or older who is living, working, or attending school in Orinda, Lafayette, or Moraga. Film submissions will be judged in one of four categories: elementary school, middle school, high school, and adult. Last year’s Lamorinda ShortDocs Film Fest judges - filmmaker Julie Rubio (East Side Sushi, Too Perfect) and TV Producer Joel Patterson (Pawn Stars, The Unknown Flag Raiser of Iwo Jima) - will be returning for this year’s festival and will be joined by Greg Fulcher (1013 Media Production) and Los Angeles based director/producer Jonathan Karsh (Lionsgate TV, Shiny Objects Entertainment). “I was impressed by the talent of last year’s filmmakers and the sophistication of their films, including the beautiful storytelling and cinematography,” explained award-winning local filmmaker Julie Rubio. “I look forward to judging this year’s entries of documentary films and choosing finalists in each film category.” The May 7th community screening will feature selected films and accompanying award presentations. To learn more about the Lamorinda ShortDocs Film Fest competition and to enter, go to http://www.lamorindaarts.org/shortdocs.
ABOUT THE LAMORINDA ARTS COUNCIL
Founded in 1950 as the Orinda Arts Council, the now Lamorinda Arts Council (LAC) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that has been igniting and sustaining artistic expression and appreciation in the visual, performing, and literary arts for people of all ages in our community for over sixty five years. Notable LAC events and programs include Lamorinda Idol, the High School Visual Arts Competition, Lamorinda ShortDocs Film Fest, Art in Public Places, and Orinda Library Art Gallery exhibits. For more information on LAC, please visit www.lamorindaarts.org.
MORAGA COMMUNITY FAIRE & CAR SHOW
The 2017 Moraga Community Faire & Car Show will be held from 11 . to 4 PM on Saturday, May 13 at the town’s Rheem Valley Shopping Center. This is a wonderful opportunity for a “family fun day.” New this year are pony rides and other Kid’s Zone activities include a climbing wall, bounce house, and a Hi Stryker game. Grab a quick lunch at the food trucks, relax with a glass of local wine or beer, and check out the over 70 amazing classic cars. Introduce yourself to over 60 local artists, business and organizations. Live entertainment will be presented all afternoon from the Saint Mary’s Jazz Band to CAPA dancers and more. Don’t miss the Car Parade around 2PM. Moraga Community Faire & Car Show is organized and sponsored by the Moraga Chamber of Commerce. For more information, visit www. moragachamber.org/faire. AM
DANVILLE FAMILY HISTORY CENTER
The Danville Family History Center has been open and serving the community for almost two decades. Everyone is welcome during library hours to use the resources available. There is a friendly and experienced staff who volunteer to help you to utilize the materials, including the Family Search web portal to over a dozen subscription-based genealogical research services, such as Ancestry.com. In addition, you may order online and have films or microfiche shipped from the main Salt Lake Library for viewing in our center. We are located inside the LDS building at 2949 Stone Valley Road. Enter the left side of the building. Hours are Monday 1-4pm, Tuesday 7-9pm, and Wednesday 10-4pm and 7-9 pm. For questions, call 925-552-5920.
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
LAFAYETTE RESERVOIR CLEAN UP
FRIDAY, APRIL 21, NOON-2PM
The 7th Annual Earth Day Cleanup at the Lafayette Reservoir will be hosted by Hunsucker Goodstein PC, the Lafayette Chamber Green Committee, and Byron Park. Please join in the day and help tidy up the trails and surrounding areas. Meet at the Lafayette Reservoir Visitor's Center. Gloves, garbage buckets, litter sticks. and vests will be provided. Byron Park will be providing lunch for all volunteers. All volunteers are requested to pre-register with Marie Montoya at mmontoya@hgnlaw.com or (925) 299-5113.
EARTH DAY RESTORATION AND CLEAN UP
California State Parks Foundation will be holding an Earth Day Restoration and Clean-up at multiple sites throughout the state on April 22 from 9AM 12:30PM. The closest event will take place at Mount Diablo State Park. Check-in time is 8:30AM. Work will involve trail work, split rail fence installation, and weed removal. Project leader for the Mount Diablo site is Dan Stefinisko, who can be contacted at Dan.Stefinisko@parks.ca.gov or (925) 855-1730.
LAMORINDA IDOL 2017
REGISTRATION FOR AUDITIONS NOW OPEN
The Lamorinda Arts Council (LAC) will host auditions for their 12th annual Lamorinda Idol singing competition May 11th through May 13th at the Orinda Intermediate School. Registration for solo and group singer auditions are open from now until April 30th. The singing competition is for anyone in kindergarten through 12th grade who is living or attending school in Orinda, Lafayette, or Moraga. Singers will be judged by a panel of community members who are experienced musical performers, and the panel will select the finalists and runner-ups for Lamorinda Idol 2017 at the May auditions. Summer workshops for both finalists and runners-up will be lead by Rena Wilson, co-owner of the Lamorinda Theatre Academy. Finalists and runners-up will also have the opportunity to perform at summer community events such as Orinda Park and Lafayette Plaza concerts and the Orinda Fourth of July Parade. Finalists will also perform on August 27th at the Orinda Theater where the Lamorinda Idol 2017 winners will be crowned. To learn more about LAC’s Lamorinda Idol 2017 and register go to www.lamorindaarts.org/lamorinda-idol.
NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH WITH YOUR SHERIFF’S OFFICE
Neighborhood Watch is a Community Action and Problem-Solving Program and one of the most effective means available for resolving issues within your community. Through organized problem-solving activities, your block can remove crime from your neighborhood and address any community issues that concern residents. Meetings can be held by a Crime Prevention Specialist who will share more information about the program. Please contact Christina Lind-Winters (925) 313-2682 or clind001@so.cccounty.us for more information.
AAUW-OML ANNUAL AWARDS MEETING
On Sunday, April 23, at 3PM, the American Association of University Women (AAUW) Orinda-Moraga-Lafayette (OML) Branch will honor Orinda-Moraga-Lafayette middle school girls who have won scholarships to the week-long AAUW Tech Trek Camp this summer and award scholarships to high school girls and one college woman headed for graduate school. The event will take place at Orinda Community Church, 10 Irwin Way in Orinda. The keynote speaker at this awards ceremony will be Dr. Kristen Beck, Assistant Professor of Mathematics at Saint Mary’s College in Moraga. She earned her Ph.D. in Mathematics from the University of Texas at Arlington. Currently, Dr. Beck conducts research on the cutting edge of commutative and homological algebra. She will speak about how she first became interested in mathematics, why she is so passionate about mathematics, and the roadblocks she encountered along the way to her fascinating career. AAUW has been empowering women as individuals and as a community since 1881. For more than 130 years, the group has worked together as a national grassroots organization to improve the lives of millions of women and their families. AAUW General Meetings are open to the public. For more information, visit the AAUW-OML website at oml-ca.aauw.net.
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
APRIL 2017 • LAFAYETTE TODAY • PAGE 3
BOULEVARD VIEW
By Alisa Corstorphine, Editor
Lafayette’s
DOGTOWN DOWNTOWN
Our family has been trying to get out and about more. After living in the area for 20 years, we have never really explored the “back side” of Mt. Diablo, and the area of Black Diamond Mines always intrigued me. I knew there was an old mine but not much more. What did they pull out of the ground? When was it in operation? Recently we loaded the dogs in the car and set out. The drive was stunning as the wildflowers are popping out and contrasting against the glorious shades of green on the hillside. We arrived to the park and were in line to pay our entrance fee when my DOG PARADE husband realized he had left his wallet at home. He asked me if I SATURDAY, 10am (begins @ Lafayette had brought mine, but assuming he always has his, I had left mine APRIL 29, 2017 Library and Learning Center) at home as well. Our daughter who was with us didn’t have hers ACTIVITIES either. It appeared our 1/2 hour drive and afternoon plans were for 10AM - 12PM • Demonstrations • Dog Adoptions naught. We raided the ashtrays and car cubbies for anything spare, • Vendors Lafayette Plaza Park but the two dollar bills and some coins weren’t going to get us to Corner of Mt. Diablo Blvd. & Moraga Rd. CONTESTS the nine dollars needed for the entrance fee, and they didn’t take Enter your dog in any/all contests, I.O.U.s. The ranger was understanding and tried to be somewhat FREE registration starts 9:30am @ Lafayette Plaza Park flexible, but we just didn’t have close to what we needed. We • Best Team Tricks (Owner and Dog) were assessing our predicament when my daughter said, “Mom, • Doggie Vogue - Lafayette’s 2nd Annual Canine Fashion Show do you still have the money we found stored in the back of your • Dog who can “Stay” the longest phone case?” Eureka! She remembered something I had forgotten. • Best of Show Tucked between my phone and its carrying case, I occasionMORE INFO ally stuff a note, a fortune cookie fortune, or other little items. Lafayettechamber.org/dogtown What my daughter remembered was $10 I had found three or four years ago. The $10 came into my possession when my daughter and I had been browsing local thrift stores. We were inside a store, and I looked down and saw a yellow piece of paper on the ground. I picked it up and what I found was a note that said, “You found it - It’s yours. Happy money Thursday,” and with that was $10 tucked inside. Analyzing the handwriting, I assumed the bounty was left by an elderly man. I looked around the store but didn’t see anyone looking at me like they had just dropped the bait and were waiting to see who had found it. On one hand it was great to find the money but on the other hand I thought another shopper at a thrift store may have needed it more than I did. I debated if I should just put it back on the floor and LAFAYETTE leave it for another customer but I decided the person had left it for the first to find and I tucked it away in the back of my phone, occasionally seeing it and saving it for the “right time.” Once realizing we had enough money for our park entrance fee, I went back to the entry gate and shared the note and $10 with the ranger who had seen us scrounging for our entry fee. She was touched by the story of the found money and I think wanted to help me find a way to keep the “special” bill. I reassured her that I would be keeping the note, and the right thing to do was to part with the crisp $10 bill. I believe the note dropper would have agreed. Our entry paid for our delightful afternoon at the park. While we didn’t have reservations for a mine tour, we learned that from 1850-1906 more than four million tons of coal were produced in 12 mines. Later, a mine on site produced high-quality silica sandstone that was sold to a company in Oakland for manufacturing glass containers and to a company in Pittsburg for steel casting. After that mine shut down, ranching took over the land, and in 1973 the area was acquired by the East Bay Regional Parks District. There are over 60 miles of hiking trails which offer beautiful views of the area and a cemetery where some of the pioneers are laid to rest. Embedded in a path we saw old fragments of glass and pottery. These were most likely from the mining towns dumping sites, and they had risen to the surface from our recent rains. We also saw some small pieces of coal on the side of the trail. When I think of coal, I think of Kentucky and West Virginia, not Mt. Diablo, but now my eyes are opened to the hidden secrets of the mountain in our backyards. We are excited to go back to take a mine tour and do more hiking. This time I’ll make sure we each have our wallets on hand! Poster Design: Amy Dryer Design Poster Printing: Minuteman Press Lafayette Minuteman Press Lafayette
CHA M B E R
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
PAGE 4 • LAFAYETTE TODAY • APRIL 2017
DON’T MISS LAFAYETTE’S FAVORITE DINNER PARTY: THE TASTE OF LAFAYETTE
RESTAURANT STROLL - TUESDAY, MAY 16TH ~ 5:30-9PM
There is no better way to experience Lafayette’s Restaurant Row than with friends, family, and neighbors – and that is exactly why “Taste of Lafayette” is such a popular annual event. There will be 26 participating restaurants and entertainment. The Taste of Lafayette offers more than a chance to stroll through beautiful downtown Lafayette while sampling signature dishes from the town’s regionally popular Restaurant Row restaurants and local caterers – although that is as delicious as it sounds. Now in its 15th year, this popular culinary event has become a much-anticipated annual community party. “It’s that one spring night where the sidewalks of Lafayette are filled with hundreds of smiling people, everyone enjoying conversation with friends and neighbors,” says Lafayette Chamber’s Executive Director, Jay Lifson. It helps that this restaurant stroll starts with a hosted wine and beer reception for all at 5:30pm in the Taste Pavilion, located at the corner of Mt. Diablo Blvd. and Lafayette Circle (near Bank of the West). Here, participants check in, meet friends, and enjoy a complimentary glass of wine or beer while noshing on delicious appetizers and enjoying live music. The “stroll” begins at 6:30pm, when ticket holders head out at their own pace with friends to stop at any or all of the participating restaurants for sampling. This year, look for live music all along the Taste route. It’s an easy walk, but for those who prefer to ride, there are two free shuttle buses. Don’t worry if some friends want to set a different pace. Everyone meets back at the Taste Pavilion beginning at 8pm to compare notes over dessert and coffee. This fun community event helps raise funds for Lafayette Community Foundation (LCF), a long-standing local non-profit that invests in programs and projects which promote and enhance the civic, cultural, educational, and environmental health of Lafayette. The Foundation draws the winners of its annual raffle during the Taste’s dessert reception. In addition, the Lafayette Community Foundation is pleased to be the beneficiary of the proceeds from an exciting raffle to be held at 8:30pm. Raffle tickets are $25 per ticket or five tickets for $100 and may be purchased at the Lafayette Chamber of Commerce office, or by contacting LCF at info@ LafayetteCF.org. LCF is comprised of a group of citizens who seek to preserve and enhance the quality of life in Lafayette and the community at large. While its board members represent multiple generations and come from many walks of life, its one common bond is a mutual love and respect for this community and a desire to uphold and strengthen Lafayette’s roots and foundation. Over the last 17 years, LCF has funded two large civic projects - over $12.5 million for the Lafayette Library and Learning Center and $140,000+ for the stage at the Lafayette Reservoir. LFC’s bi-annual grant program is how LCF leaves its footprint on the community, giving $350,000 in the form of 115 grants to LOCAL non-profits. For a complete list of past grant recipients, go to www.lafayettecf.org. Please join in this fun – and tasty – community celebration. Taste of Lafayette tickets sell out, so it’s a good idea to buy early. Tickets are available online at www.lafayettechamber.org, at the Lafayette Chamber offices, located at 100 Lafayette Circle or by calling (925) 284-7404.
Lost Dog!
$50 REWARD If you find him and your name is drawn!
He is very small, so you will have to look hard if you want to find him.
Lafayette Luther is Missing He has become lost in this paper.
Send a letter telling us where you found him, along with your name and address to:
Lost Dog! Lafayette Today, 3000F Danville Blvd #117, Alamo, CA 94507
Madeline Bakar is our winner! Luther was hiding on page 11 last month!
TOP 5 REASONS TO TAKE YOUR DOG TO LAFAYETTE’S DOGTOWN DOWNTOWN
Long considered a pet friendly town, Lafayette is giving top billing to its canine community for its 4th annual Dogtown Downtown event, scheduled for Saturday, April 29, from 10am to Noon, at the Lafayette Plaza Park, located at the corner of Mount Diablo and Moraga Rd. This free event is about, and for, dogs and dog lovers. Designed to be a fun and festive canine-focused event, Lafayette Dogtown Downtown 2017 includes outdoor working dog and canine agility demonstrations, fun dog competitions, creative canine crafts, and other activities for dogs and dog lovers of all ages. ARF and Contra Costa County Animal Services will be available for pet adoptions, and animal rescue group representatives will be on hand as well as other dog-related vendors. Well-behaved dogs on leash and under the control of their pet owners are invited to attend. Here are the top five reasons for you to take your dog to Lafayette Dogtown Downtown: 1. This event celebrates dogs. Why would you leave yours at home? 2. Show furry family pride! Lafayette Dogtown Downtown kicks off with a Grand Parade that starts at 10am from Lafayette Library and Learning Center and continues to Lafayette Plaza Park (Mt. Diablo and Moraga Road) where all the activities and contests happen. After the parade, there are friendly competitions in the following categories: Best Dog-Owner Team Trick, Dog who can “stay” the longest, Best Costume, and Best of Show. Imagine the photos – wouldn’t those be better with your dog in them? 3. Encourage your dog to learn new tricks. Throughout the event there will be demonstrations from the “professionals” – service dogs, police dogs, and dogs advanced in agility training, among others. 4. Make easy conversation. Can you think of an easier way to strike up a conversation or find immediate common ground with neighbors at a dog event like this than to let your dog sniff out new friends? Woof. 5. Get help picking out a new furry brother or sister. Tony La Russa’s ARF and Contra Costa County Animal Services will be on hand with adoptable pets. Is your family ready to expand?
SONS IN RETIREMENT
LAMORINDA BRANCH 174
Sons in Retirement Lamorinda Branch 174 is a social organization of retired and semi-retired men who enjoy spending leisure time with friends and activities. Activities are golf, bowling, bocce ball, table pool, travel, fishing, computers & technology, bridge, poker, pinochle, investing, wine tasting, walking, astronomy, stamp collecting, and more. The group meets for lunch at 11AM the second Wednesday monthly at Holy Trinity Culture Center, 1700 School Street, Moraga. The guest speaker on April 12th will be Dr. Carolyn Seaton, Superintendent, Orinda Union School District. For attendance and membership info, call Tyler at (925) 284-5561. To learn more about the group, visit www.branch174.sirinc2.org.
WALNUT CREEK BRANCH 116
Branch 116 Sons in Retirement, for retired or semiretired men, will be holding its 11:30AM lunch meeting on April 17 at the Clubhouse at Boundary Oak, 3800 Valley Vista Road, Walnut Creek. The guest speaker is Steve Minniear whose topic is “Historic Preservation, Camp Parks.” The cost is $25. For reservations or information, call (925) 322-1160 or email branch116@gmail.com. For more information about the group, visit www.branch116.org.
LAFAYETTE HIKING GROUP
On Wednesday, April 12, meet with the Lafayette Hiking Group for a walk along Lafayette Ridge to Springhill Valley. Meet at the EBRPD parking lot on Pleasant Hill Road next to Springhill School at 9AM. Bring snacks, water, layered clothing, good walking shoes, and sun protection. Hikers will enjoy great views of the surrounding areas, as we climb the Lafayette Ridge to the John Kiefer Trail. This small trail should have some interesting wildflowers as we go down through the woods to the Springhill Valley. The latter part of the hike will be on streets, including Springhill Road. The hike is strenuous and hilly and 4 to 5 miles long. The leader is Alison Hill.
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
APRIL 2017 • LAFAYETTE TODAY • PAGE 5
CANDY SCRAMBLE
The Lafayette Rotary Club is pleased to announce the upcoming annual Candy Scramble which will be held Saturday, April 15th at 10am. The event is open to all children ages 2 through 3rd grade. The event takes place at Lafayette Plaza, located at the corner of Mt. Diablo Blvd. and Moraga Rd. in Lafayette. The park lawn will be covered with candy for the kids to put in their baskets. The youngest are always given extra time to get their share! The Bunny along with the Police and Fire Departments will be there to take pictures with the kids. Please arrive promptly at 10am as the event runs quickly. A special “Johnny’s Donut Dive” will also be held for the adults! Join in the fun. Rotarians work with youth, help our community, and play an active part in international and world community service. The Lafayette Rotary Club meets every Thursday 12:15pm at Oakwood Athletic Club located at 4000 Mt. Diablo Blvd. in Lafayette. Visit us on Facebook. Search “Rotary Club of Lafayette CA.”
CONCERT AT THE RES
The Lafayette Rotary Club is proud to announce the 2017 Concert at the Res at the Lafayette Reservoir on Saturday, May 13 from 11AM to 3PM. Since 1994, Lafayette Rotarians have been hosting a free afternoon of music each spring featuring local bands including Acalanes High School, Stanley Middle School, Bentley School, and the Big Band of Rossmoor. This annual concert was conceived by local Rotarian Dick Holt to raise money to support Lafayette schools music programs and to provide a venue where local musicians could entertain the community at the beautiful Lafayette reservoir. The Lafayette Rotary Club annually produces the Concert at the Res, and, with help from the Lafayette Community Foundation, raised the money to fully fund the community stage at the Lafayette reservoir for use by the entire community.
Fifth Fifth Anniversary Anniversary Concert Concert
This year’s event includes the award-winning jazz combo from Acalanes, the Rossmoor Big Band/Generations in Jazz, the Bentley High Jazz combo, the Stanley middle school Symphonic Orchestra who will be joined this year by the Westlake Middle school from Oakland, the stunning dancers from the Lamorinda Theatre Academy, and the talented Town Hall Education performers. Along with great live music and dancing, there will be food and beverages available. The stage is adjacent to a shady picnic area, public restrooms, and the children’s playground. Once you have parked, walk east (to your left) towards the reservoir trail. The stage is about 150 feet from the parking lot. Golf cart transport will be available to and from the stage area. Raffle tickets will also be available to purchase with great prizes including weekend get-a-ways. The proceeds are used to fund the Rotary Club’s public service projects and local school music programs.
TOWN HALL THEATRE TO HOST MUSIC FESTIVAL, FILM SHOWING IN APRIL
Brahms, Cherubini,Faure, Brahms, Offenbach, Verdi, Cherubini,Faure, Mascagni, Whitacre, Offenbach, Verdi, Garrop,Ticheli and Mascagni, Whitacre, much more ----Garrop,Ticheli and much more -----
Sunday April 23 at 4pm St. Perpetua Sunday April 23 at 4pm 3454 Hamlin Road, Lafayette St. Perpetua
3454 Hamlin Road, Lafayette Saturday April 29 at 7pm Clayton Valley Presbyterian Saturday April 29 at 7pm 1578 Kirker Pass Road, Clayton Clayton Valley Presbyterian 1578 Kirker Pass Road, Clayton Sunday April 30 at 6pm Peace Lutheran Sunday April 30 at 6pm 3201 Camino Tassajara, Danville Peace Lutheran 3201 Camino Tassajara, Danville Danville
Tickets are $20/ adults, $10/ are students. Tickets $20/ adults, $10/ students. Information and tickets available at tickets Information and www.chromaticachorale.org available at or at the door. www.chromaticachorale.org
or at the door.
Danville
Town Hall Theatre will be holding two exciting special events during Chromatica is a California non-profit benefit corporation and a 501(c)(3) the month of April. On Saturday, April 29, Town Hall will sponsor the 7th Annual Lafayette Community Music Festival. This event brings together Chromatica is a California non-profit benefit corporation and a 501(c)(3) some of the East Bay’s best local musicians to perform original music in an acoustically intimate environment. “It is an opportunity for these musicians to perform their own songs in front of an attentive and appreciative audience,” said Town Hall Board Vice President Tom Stack. The musicians donate their talents and time as a benefit for Town Hall’s award-winning mainstage theatre program. In addition to the music performances, there will be a silent auction with Rock & Roll and Sports memorabilia and items donated by local businesses and restaurants. Doors open at 7pm and the show starts at 8pm at Town Hall, located at 3535 School Street in Lafayette. In addition, on Friday, April 28, Town Hall will host a screening of the movie A Plastic Ocean, sponsored by Sustainable Lafayette. This visually-stunning and moving film forces individuals to face the consequences of their plastic-filled lifestyles. A Plastic Ocean, (www.plasticoceans.org/watch-trailer/), is the second film in the Sustainable Lafayette 2017 Film Series. The proceeds of the showing of this film will be used to purchase and install a water bottle filling station at the Town Hall lobby. Tickets to both events can be purchased online at www.townhalltheatre.com or by calling the box office at (925) 283-1557.
PAGE 6 • LAFAYETTE TODAY • APRIL 2017
THE BOOKWORM
By Joan Stevenson
There is exciting news on the horizon for the Lafayette Library and Learning Center. It underscores once again the uniqueness of our library. The Lafayette Library and Learning Center Foundation and the University of California, Berkeley, English Department are pleased to announce the launch of The Simpson Family Literary Project and the creation of a $50,000 literary prize. The annual prize will recognize a writer who has earned a distinguished reputation and the approbation and gratitude of readers. The Inaugural Prize Recipient for 2017-2018 will be an author of fiction at the relatively middle stage of a burgeoning career. They will give a public reading and be celebrated during a brief spring residence at the Lafayette Library and the University of California, Berkeley. The Simpson Family Literary Project, in addition to awarding the national literary prize, promotes and pursues lasting educational outreach into schools, university, and libraries, and honors and supports authors across a great spectrum: from young writers to mid-career writers of distinction to internationally celebrated authors. The Project’s initiatives include teaching creative writing to high school-age writers and establishing a writer in residence program at the Lafayette Library. Joyce Carol Oates has been announced as Writer in Residence at the Lafayette Library and Learning Center Foundation for spring 2018, engaging with librarians and younger writers in the Bay Area. The Simpson Family Literary Project is the result of a private/public partnership between Berkeley’s distinguished English Department and the innovative Lafayette Library and Learning Center Foundation. The Project gratefully acknowledges the profound impact and inspiration of Barclay and Sharon Simpson and their family, distinguished philanthropic sustainer’s of the arts and education, and heroic supporters of both Berkeley and the Library. For many years the Simpsons have championed the lives and achievements of artists, students, life-long-learners, and under-served children. Founding Chair of The Simpson Family Literary Project, Bay Area author Joseph Di Prisco, says, “A crucial democratic principle infuses the Simpson Family Literary
www.yourmonthlypaper.com Project: literature creates community and inspires literacy. Storytelling endures as an innate skill everyone possesses and practices, however reflexively and casually. At its most empowering, telling a story leads to literacy.” On May 1, 1915, a luxury ocean liner sailed out of New York, bound for Liverpool. Over a hundred years later you will have an opportunity to hear the real story of that voyage when New York Times bestselling author, Erik Larson, discusses his new book, Dead Wake: The Crossing of the Lusitania. Dead Wake is full of glamour and suspense. The author captures the sheer drama and emotional power of a disaster whose intimate details had remained shrouded in mystery for years. This event will be held on May 4th at the Acalanes Performing Arts Center. General admission is $45, and reserved seating is $65. Reserved seating and a reception with Eric Larson tickets are $100. Monet; The Early Years, now open at the Legion of Honor, is the first major US exhibit devoted to the initial phase of Claude Monet’s career. The Friend’s Wonders of the World program on April 12th at 2pm will welcome a docent from the museum to talk about the show. This exhibition is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience Monet’s mastery before Impressionism, and it includes paintings that are profoundly daring and surprising. This free program is sponsored by the Friends. Cuba: It’s Complicated will be presented Friday, April 14th at 1pm. Artist and professor Nestor Armando Gil traveled throughout Cuba in 2015 and early 2017. During the presentation he will share images and stories which demonstrate that life for the Cuban people is indeed complicated, as rich with struggle as with joy. The Friends present Sweet Thursday on April 21tst at 7pm with Lafayette’s Rock Star, record-setting speed climber Hans Florine. Hans will discuss his recent book On the Nose: A Lifelong Obsession with Yosemite’s Most Iconic Climb. Hans holds the record for scaling El Capitan, which he has climbed 100 times. Preserving the earth takes center stage with two programs this month. Teens will celebrate Earth Day on April 24th by making recycled art with help from Republic Services. Create your own terrarium and enjoy organic snacks at the free event. A Graywater 101 class will be held on April 19th from 6:30 – 8:30pm. EBMUD will show us a simple low-cost way to make your home more drought resilient in our changing climate. And there is much more! Visit www.lafayettelib.org/program to find out about other programs and opportunities. What’s on your calendar? Make the library a part of your plans!
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
DO YOU REMEMBER THE HUDDLE INN?
By Ruth Bailey for the Lafayette Historical Society
Awhile back several Lafayette Historical Society volunteers were looking at a collection of aerial photos of western Mount Diablo Blvd. taken in the mid-1950s. Volunteer Sherril Barber pointed to a spot near the old Cape Cod House and said, “That’s the Huddle Inn, where they served a flaming pizza!” Everyone got interested in that culinary curiosity and began searching the bound volumes of the Lafayette Sun for information. The search was rewarded with several Huddle Inn ads. On September 21 and 22, 1956, there was an announcement of a “Grand Opening for the Huddle Inn, one-half block east of Cape Cod House next to Craig Oil Station, home of the Flaming Pizza.” That advertisement went on to describe its offerings, with a little history lesson along with the menu offering: “You will want to try these outstanding pizzas from our extensive menu. Pizza Al Tonno Marie Antoinette – Named for Marie Antoinette, queen of France, wife of Louis XVI, ninth child of Marie Theresa and the Emperor Francis I of Austria. Led to the guillotine on October 16, 1793, it has often been said, when told the French people had no bread: “Let ‘em eat cake!’ and that this caused the French people to hate her. Definite evidence now shows that she was not hated by any others than the leaders of the French Revolution, and that her comment actually pleased the French people. Properly translated, the statement seems clearly to have been: ‘They have no bread? Then let ‘em eat Pizza!’ Pizza Alla Caruso – Named for Enrico Caruso, the most famous Italian tenor of all time. Superstitious to the extreme and subject to violent bouts with stage-fright, Caruso is said to have had this type of pizza especially prepared for him to settle his nerves and his stomach just prior to going on stage at each of his performances. For this reason, it is often called ‘pizza Aida,’ ‘pizza Carmen,’ or ‘pizza Samson and Delilah.’ It is said that at his last performance of Puccini’s ‘La Boheme,’ he even brought a slice of one on stage with him and was seen offering a piece to the soprano just before she died. Contrary to the beliefs of some, Caruso himself died, not of acute indigestion, but of pleurisy, in Naples, on August 2, 1921.” Note that neither colorfully named pizza discloses its ingredients, although Marie Antoinette’s version references “tonno,” which is the Italian word for tuna. And, neither is the origin or description of “Flaming Pizza” revealed. But according to our Pizza Correspondent Barber, the flames seemed to come from the center of the pizza –from a few drops of alcohol poured into a cup in the center of the pie and lit as it was served in the dining room (You evidently had to ignite your take-home pie yourself). Prices were reasonable, to say the least. When the restaurant opened, complete dinners (your choice: Veal Scalopini Florentina, Salisbury steak, baked or broiled halibut, or oven baked chicken) could be had for $1.85, including coffee and dessert. In 1958, they advertised that if you ordered a large pizza you could add a salad and beverage for twenty cents a person. For groups of 25 or more, the Huddle Inn would cater dinner in your home. “You provide the plates, place, and beverage, and the restaurant will deliver pizza, spaghetti, salad, and dessert”... all for $1 per person. Further research didn’t turn up when the Huddle Inn went out of business, but we can only hope that the Inn and its fabulous flaming pizza went out in a blaze of glory. The Lafayette Historical Society has bound issues of the Lafayette Sun from 1937 to 1979 in its archives. They are available for research at any time. The LHS History Room is located in the Lafayette Library & Learning Center (enter on Golden Gate Way) and is open Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday 10am – 2pm and by appointment.
APRIL 2017 • LAFAYETTE TODAY • PAGE 7
LAND FOR SALE IN LAFAYETTE
By Erin Martin
I feel lucky to have the opportunity to help clients sell and buy very unique and special properties. Lafayette is filled with amazing neighborhoods and interesting nooks and crannies. While we have many beautiful homes, what we don’t see very often are vacant lots. We do see more and more builders and frustrated buyers tearing down existing homes on good lots and starting over because there are so few vacant lots left in Lafayette. I call this the Moraga Blvd phenomena. Every time I drive down this quaint street, there seems to be another home being taken down in order to build something new. In south bay cities like Menlo Park and Palo Alto, this is common place and may be the wave of the future in Lafayette. In the last fifteen months, only nine lots have sold in Lafayette. The highest sale was $1,237,000 for 1.3 acres in Reliez Valley. The average sales price was $548,389, and the average price per square foot was $17.66. As of the end of March, there were only seven lots available for sale. Many of the remaining vacant lots in Lafayette have challenging terrain or are difficult to build on because of protected trees, creeks, or easements. There are two vacant lots near where I live. Both are pancake flat, and one is just short of an acre. After researching both lots out of curiosity and because they look perfect for development, I discovered that one had a utility easement running right through the middle of it. The other has a creek that runs along two sides with a deep embankment. While there are some challenges with the second lot, it would be a wonderful place to build a home if the owner was interested in selling – which is not the case. Often buyers ask me about building costs or about the new prefab homes such as Connect-Homes or BLU homes. I have seen several of these homes going up in Lamorinda, and I believe they are becoming more and more popular because they are a less expensive building option than custom new construction. Many prefab vendors also handle the permitting process with the city and the county which is valuable. While these prefab homes appear to be a wonderful new option, the issue remains the same: vacant lots are scarce, and buying something existing is usually more economical. Please email me with you real estate questions or for a home evaluation. I can be reached by email at erin@erinmartinhomes. com or by phone at (925) 951-3817. Advertorial
AAUW GARDEN TOUR
Come see five beautiful gardens at the 17th Annual Danville-Alamo-Walnut Creek Branch of American Association of University Women (AAUW) Garden Tour on Friday, May 12 and Saturday, May 13 from 10am- 4 pm. All gardens are in Danville and Alamo. Tickets are $35 through April 30 and $40 after. Tickets will be available starting April 8 at East Bay Flower Company, 206 Sycamore Valley Rd. West (Danville Livery) with cash or check only from 9-5, Monday-Saturday. Tickets can be purchased online by a credit card at daw-ca.aauw.net for a $2 fee/ticket, or mail a check postmarked by April 30 payable to AAUW Fund with a self-addressed business sized #10 envelope to AAUW Garden Tour, PO Box 996, Alamo, CA 94507. No children under 12 or pets are allowed. For more information, visit http://daw-ca.aauw.net/garden-tour-2017 or email daw.aauw@gmail.com.
TOASTMASTERS
NEW YEAR
• CARPET NEW FLOORS! • HARDWOOD • CARPET RUGS • HARDWOOD CUSTOM RUGS • RUGS LINOLEUM • LINOLEUM TILE
Goal Achievers Toastmasters meetings are Family Owned Business held every Monday from 7:15 - 8:15pm at Since 1989 Atria Park Lafayette, located at 1545 Pleasant Hill Road. Develop your presentation skills and 3344 Mt. Diablo Blvd. Lafayette, CA become the speaker and leader you want to be. 925.284.4440 The group is open to everyone aged 18 and up. For more information, visit http://goalachievers. www.LamorindaFloors.com License# 708486 toastmastersclubs.org.
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
PAGE 8 • LAFAYETTE TODAY • APRIL 2017
TOAST ASSISTANCE LEAGUE OF DAIBLO VALLEY’S 50TH ANNIVERSARY
JUNK & SINGLE ITEM REMOVAL SERVICES
ENJOY A FREE ROOT BEER FLOAT AT THE WAY SIDE INN THRIFT SHOP IN LAFAYETTE!
One of more than 120 chapters, Assistance League® of Diablo Valley is a nonprofit, member volunteer organization dedicated to improving lives in our community through hands-on programs. March 8, 2017, marked its 50th anniversary with members and community dignitaries celebrating a history rich in achievement and well deserved pride at the Clubhouse at Boundary Oak in Walnut Creek. • On Saturday, April 22, anniversary festivities will continue with an ice cream social at the (925) 895.4411 DiamondCleaningNow.com Way Side Inn Thrift Shop, Assistance League of Diablo Valley’s primary funding source, located at 3521 Golden Gate Way in Lafayette. Anyone who likes free root beer floats is welcome to “party hardy” from 2 to 4pm. Anyone who likes a 50% off sale on clothing and shoes is also welcome. Music will be provided by the Stanley Jazz Band Messengers, touted as their top band by director Bob Athayde, will put you in touch with your “inner jive.” Also in attendance will be Lafayette Mayor Mike Anderson, Former Assemblywoman Lynn Leach, and Lafayette Chamber of Commerce President Jay Lifson who will offer their kind wishes. Look for the dedicated thrift shop member volunteers, resplendent with soda jerk hats and red aprons, to help you navigate the crowds. As always, thank you for your generous donations and purchases; they help improve the lives of those in our community who are vulnerable. To learn about the philanthropic programs that Assistance League of Diablo Valley Thrift Shop funds, please Get the scoop about free root beer floats from member volunteer visit www.diablovalley.assistanceleague.org. extraordinaire Arlita Smith!
JUNK HAULING
WHAT’S UP?
By Jim Scala, Mt. Diablo Astronomical Society (MDAS).
The Mt. Diablo Astronomical Society (MDAS) Monthly Meeting will take place on April 25 at the Lindsay Wildlife Experience Auditorium located at 1931 1st Ave. in Walnut Creek. Doors open at 6:45PM and the formal meeting begins at 7:15PM with a member’s short talk. That’s followed by the featured lecture, Dark Matter and Energy, given by Dr. Holger Muller from UC Berkeley. Professor Muller will explain how Dark Matter and Dark Energy make up 95% of our universe. You’ll also learn how they hold galaxies together while at the same time they push our universe apart. It is arguably one of the most active and controversial topics in modern astronomy. Holger is known for his ability to make this complex subject come alive and easy to understand. Refreshments are always available. The meeting adjourns at 9:15PM. Mt. Diablo on May 20. The observing session begins formally at 7:30PM. It’s good to arrive at the lower summit parking lot by about 6:30PM. That will give you time to see the member’s telescopes, the MDAS observatory, and look at the sun which sets at 8:17PM. A short lecture at 7:30PM explains the evening’s feature, supernovas. Why do some stars explode and which star is next? You will see some supernovas, but there is much more to observe. Jupiter will be high in the sky. One of the most spectacular objects seen through a telescope is Jupiter, our solar system’s largest planet. Besides seeing the unusual bands and enormous red spot on the planet’s active atmosphere, you can also see some of its four Galilean moons. The shadows of these large moons can sometimes be seen on the planet. When you see them, you’ll be witnessing a solar eclipse taking place about 4-million miles away. And since Jupiter rotates in about 10 hours, it’s marking will change during the evening. Deep sky objects are plentiful. During the evening, there will be galaxies, nebulas and star clusters shown through the member’s telescopes. When you look at a neighboring galaxy, such as M-51, you’re seeing how it was millions of years ago. In contrast, when observing a star cluster, such as M-13, you’re seeing an object nearby, as it is now. Nebula are usually where new stars are being born or hot gas that glows from a star that has exploded as a super-nova. You’ll see all that on May 20 and have much to discuss on your drive home. Questions? Email jscala2@comcast.net.
MONTELINDO GARDEN CLUB
The next Montelindo Garden Club Meeting (third Friday of every month, September through May) will be held on Friday, April 21 at 9AM at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, 66 St. Stephens Drive in Orinda. Everyone is welcome. April’s meeting presentation is titled Do I Have Pollinators for You! and will feature speaker Ellen Zagory. Zagory, Director of Horticulture at UC Davis Arboretum and a gardener and horticulturist for 24 years, is the spokesperson for the Arboretum, which promotes sustainable garden plants and practices. She frequently gives talks on how to bring wildlife into the garden.
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
APRIL 2017 • LAFAYETTE TODAY • PAGE 9
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY’S SYSTEM FOR HELPING THE HOMELESS
By Supervisor Candace Andersen
Contra Costa County provides the “safety net” for those in need in our community. The Contra Costa Homeless Continuum of Care (CoC) is currently designing and implementing a Coordinated Entry System (CES) to ensure that homeless individuals, and those at-risk of homelessness, receive the most appropriate services to meet their housing needs. The Coordinated Entry System is a collaboration of multiple community, gov- Gopher/Mole Removal ernment, and faith-based agencies that collectively provide services ranging from No Poison prevention to permanent housing placements. Homeless individuals are linked to the support needed to obtain and sustain housing. They move into the system by calling 211, by going to one of our Coordinated Assessment and Resource (CARE) Centers, or through our Coordinated Outreach Referral and Engagement (CORE) teams. The 211 information line, operated by the Contra Costa Crisis Center, provides a phone portal for individuals and families needing to connect to homeless services. Callers will be connected to CORE Team and CARE Centers. 211 is in the process of implementing Prevention and Diversion Screening and Referral services, and in September it will begin a centralized reservation system for direct placement into emergency shelters. Our CORE outreach teams have begun to engage and stabilize homeless individuals living outside, help facilitate and deliver health and basic needs services, and locate permanent housing. Evening CORE teams can provide direct placement into shelter beds. CARE Centers located in Richmond, Concord, and Walnut Creek provide a walk-in option for individuals and families who need to connect to homeless services. Services offered at CARE Centers include help with basic needs, light case management, housing navigation services, and substance abuse treatment and support. The Concord CARE Center also serves as an after-hours Warming Center to offer much needed support in a safe environment overnight. CORE teams and law enforcement will be able to make warming center placements. CORE teams establish relationships with clients through regular communication and visits to camps and shelters, and they serve as a point of contact for many social services. A 2016 count showed that about 1,100 county residents are without shelter on any given night. Through CCHS, CORE teams connect clients to shelters, medical and mental health care, case managers, substance use disorder treatment and services, benefit counselors, housing, and other services. Most Contra Costa cities rely on their police departments to manage homelessness, leading to a drain on public safety resources as officers repeatedly respond to complaints about public disturbances, theft, and panhandling; often involving the same few people. Those booked for infractions such as public intoxication or urinating in public rarely remain in jail longer than a night. They are often released a few hours after booking at Martinez Detention Facility. To help alleviate the impact on their police, Martinez and Pleasant Hill will soon share a full-time outreach team to connect with homeless residents as part of a new Contra Costa Health Services (CCHS) plan to more efficiently deliver services to the county’s homeless community. The cities agreed to fund the cost of a two-member team of CCHS outreach workers who will operate 40 hours a week within their boundaries. There is no one single solution to eradicating homelessness in our community. Through these programs the County has implemented in cooperation with our cities and many non-profit groups, I am hopeful that we can make a difference in the lives of individuals living on the street. For more information about Homeless Services in Contra Costa County and how you can help, go to cchealth.org/homeless. My office is here to serve the residents of Contra Costa County District 2, which includes San Ramon, Danville, Alamo, Walnut Creek, Saranap, Parkmead, Lafayette, Moraga, Canyon, and Orinda. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if we can provide you with additional information on this topic or on other County issues. I can be reached at SupervisorAndersen@bos.cccounty.us or (925) 957-8860. This was Hitchcock’s favorite of his films and contains gorgeous scenes CINEMA CLASSICS and time pieces worthy of the era. It creates a very special insight into the SHADOW OF A DOUBT average American family, and I enjoy witnessing how much the family members care about one another. This fine film will deliver 108 minutes By Peggy Horn of solid entertainment. This month’s Cinema Classic is a film noir thriller entitled, Shadow of a Doubt (1943), MUSICAL NOTES starring Joseph Cotton, Teresa Wright, MacFrom nearly the same time period as the movie comes the “Grand Canyon donald Carey, and Hume Cronyn. Directed by Suite” by Ferde Grofe. The Suite was composed between 1929 and 1931 Alfred Hitchcock and written by Thorton Wilder, and consists of five movements (Sunrise, The Painted Desert, On The Trail, Sally Bensen, and Alma Reville, the movie was Sunset, and Cloudburst). nominated for an Academy Award for Best Story. LAFAYETTE COMMUNITY GARDEN AND It was based on a novel, which was in turn based on the true story of a mass-murderer named Earle Leonard Nelson, from the 1920’s called the OUTDOOR LEARNING CENTER Merry Widow Murderer. “Under the Night Sky” will be presented Saturday, The opening scenes were filmed in New Jersey, but the majority of the April 22 from 7pm-8:30pm, Arrive at the Lafayette film is filmed in Santa Rosa, California. Joseph Cotton, playing the role Community Garden located at 3932 Mt. Diablo Blvd of Uncle Charlie, is dodging detectives who suspect his involvement in for an evening of stargazing to learn about the spring a murder investigation. He needs a place to hide. For this reason, Uncle sky. Presenter Isabel Hawkins, will talk about the night sky and help us Charlie migrates to his sister’s home in Santa Rosa, where she lives with locate constellations and other bright objects. her husband and three children. Teresa Wright plays the part of Uncle On Saturday, May 6th from 1 - 3:30PM a “Colorful Mandalas in the Charlie’s namesake, quaintly named “Charlie,” the eldest of the three Garden” workshop will be held. Designing your own mandalas can be children. Although she is sometimes referred to as a teenager, she is in both inspirational and therapeutic. Time in the garden will be dedicated to fact a young woman in this role. Despondent about having nothing exciting meditation by both going within and outside of ourselves through collecting, to do on the horizon, the family receives the telegram announcing Uncle designing, and coloring our own mandalas, both flat and three dimensional. Charlie’s upcoming visit and is overjoyed. Charlie idolizes her uncle This is an intergenerational workshop intended for all ages. Youth ages 15 but quickly discovers he is not worthy of her admiration as the mystery and under must be accompanied by an adult. develops. The film is in crisp and beautiful black and white and contains Classes are free. However, a $5 donation is appreciated to support our the standard cameo appearance by Alfred Hitchcock in a train scene with education programs. several other passengers playing cards. Hitchcock holds the winning hand. Learn more and register visit https://lafayettecommunitygarden.org/.
925-765-4209
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
PAGE 10 • LAFAYETTE TODAY • APRIL 2017
Technology. Simplified. Since 2001
Residential | Commercial
COMPUTER SERVICES: PCs/Macs/Tablets/Smartphones • Upgrades • Maintenance • Networking • Data Recovery • Virus/Malware Removal • Back-up Solutions • Email/Hosted Exchange • Internet of Things IT DESIGN & IMPLEMENTATION: IT Strategy Development • Network Design • Infrastructure Assessment • Cloud Services INFRASTRUCTURE MANAGEMENT: Proactive Desktop, Server, & Network Monitoring and Management • Office Move Management • Disaster Preparedness • Monthly Service Agreements
925-552-7953 helpdesk@pcioit.com www.pcioit.com
TECHNOLOGY MATTERS
By Evan Corstorphine, Portable CIO, Inc.
Today most people have a smartphone, use WiFi networks, and can navigate a computer without assistance. The baseline level of computer awareness in our society has risen dramatically since we started Portable CIO (PCIO) 16 years ago. During that same time, the number of ways your computer can be destroyed by internet threats has also dramatically risen. Few people do an excellent job of proactively keeping their computers safe. At PCIO, we have assembled a product which combines three world-class systems to address the security tasks that we’ve found people don’t handle well themselves. We call it Workstation Security Management (WSM). The premise behind our product is that being proactive is cheaper than recovering from disasters. An analogy is it is easier to change your car’s oil regularly than to replace a burned-up motor. WSM works on everything: PCs, Macs, laptops, desktops, servers, or workstations, as well as iPads and iPhones (Android is coming). We’re able to efficiently, and proactively, manage the health of your systems using our advanced suite of tools. Most maintenance can be performed remotely. In fact, we internally use the WSM toolset and methods to keep our own computers clean and healthy, which is why I’m confident about offering it to clients. Our toolset is like having a tiny IT technician inside of your system, always watching what’s happening and looking for opportunities to stop problems in their initial stages. Our systems run well: yours could, too. The first component of WSM is antivirus/antimalware software. The antivirus product is connected to our back-end monitoring system and alerts us when it sees virus or malware activity. Many threats can be addressed if you respond quickly, and that can save the expense of cleaning or rebuilding a computer. Our system attempts to auto-resolve the threat, then it flags our Helpdesk if more assistance is required to solve the problem. When we see an alert, we often solve issues before anyone even knows something was wrong. The next part of our suite provides network security. It has two roles: website security and content management. On the security side, our system maintains and protects you from a constantly updated list of millions of websites which are
known to be infected. The system prevents your computer or smartphone from reaching those websites which can harm you. This eliminates a large category of threats that most people don’t even know exist. The second part is content management, and it’s optional. It can be configured to prevent computers from reaching either an individual website or broad categories of websites based on the content they offer. Some of the categories we typically are asked to block include Hate/Discrimination, Weapons, Sexuality & Pornography, Hacking, Drugs, Politics, etc. For example, some employers use this system to prevent their company computers from reaching shopping or social networking sites. At home, we’ve had countless families ask us how we can prevent their children from accessing explicit content from their home computers. To block content properly, it needs to be done at the network level, not using “cyber-nanny” tools on a PC or Mac. The programs we use provide a powerful, professional-grade system for protecting you from infected sites. It puts the power in your hands, and you decide whatever may be appropriate for your audience. The third leg of WSM is proactive hardware-level monitoring and management. The purpose of this system is to monitor your computer hardware components, RAM, hardisks, and CPU; and also to help us automate regular software maintenance tasks. The monitoring tools check your hardisks to ensure they’re not filling up or for signs of incipient failure called “SMART” errors. Your CPU is monitored for unusual activity or for signs that a process is running amok, which causes slowness. It also checks your RAM to ensure you have enough and makes sure nothing is consuming too many resources. It provides an inventory of your system hardware and software, and performs regularly scheduled cleaning and defragmentation of your disks. If you wish, we can also have it perform custom tasks such as regular reboots of certain systems or emptying of certain folders of files given specific criteria, such as age or file size. Whatever maintenance you can do while sitting at the computer, we can automate. The WSM toolset allows us to make security and maintenance available and affordable for everyone no matter what sort of devices they use. Whether someone is commercial or residential, this is available for a flat fee per device. We’re excited to provide this world-class combination of proactive tools to our clients. If you think your systems are a candidate for Workstation Security Management, give our office a call at 925-552-7953, or email info@pcioit.com. Advertorial
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
APRIL 2017 • LAFAYETTE TODAY • PAGE 11
WALKING THE RESERVOIR
By Jim Scala
Joanna’s letter. “Thank you, Jim, for starting the seniors walking group. Here is why I like it: Interesting conversations. I learn things, like where I can get fresh eggs in Lafayette. I sleep much better at night on days I walk. Walking helps my knees become more flexible and reduce stiffness. I have more energy and am happier after each walk. Maybe it’s the sunlight, beautiful scenery of the reservoir, the sound of birds chirping, children running, beautiful dogs. I feel alive and happy. Green is good for my eyesight and fresh air for my lungs. Music from the birds. All my six senses come alive while walking. I do not have the discipline to walk by myself. I am grateful for the schedule. Every walk is different. With the fast walkers, I huff and puff to keep up. With the slower walkers, I am more relaxed, enjoy the scenery and inhale a little deeper. I hope everyone enjoys the walk like I do. Big thanks.” Born in Viet Nam Joanna worked for the U.S. and knew she had to leave before the Cong took over. She was on the last C-130 to leave Saigon for Camp Pendleton. It was so crowded that children sat on the floor. Joanna, now a devoted U.S. citizen, raised two daughters. She always has a smile. Concert at the Reservoir. Set aside May 14th for Lafayette Rotary’s annual concert that will feature seven bands for a day of stirring music. Our Bandstand on the hill will have plenty of seats, places to spread a blanket, and have a picnic lunch. Golf carts will run from the parking areas for your convenience. Come and enjoy this annual event. Two special people. Robin and Dick Holt were named Lafayette’s Citizens of the year. Without the tireless effort by Dick and Robin, we wouldn’t have the beautiful bandstand for concerts. Be sure to say “Thanks” to them at the concert. I often ask, “Where did Lafayette get people like the Holts?” Our ongoing wildlife exhibit. With the gurgle of many streams as backdrop, the sounds of our abundant field birds, egrets, and water birds, announces that reservoir life is abundant. On a recent walk, I spotted two deer munching near the trail, and further on, at the edge of a small stream, a young man was showing some friends several large spiders doing what spiders do around rocks near the water. We had a backdrop of turkeys gobbling. At the eastern cove, with about five pelicans swimming, two otters surfaced from the reeds and one man exclaimed, “Look, that one has a fish!” Our ongoing dog show. Along with our wildlife there is a constant, impromptu dog show, especially on weekends. People bring well-groomed dogs of all sizes and breeds to walk the reservoir. Sitting on the center bench for an hour, I saw several great danes, many well-groomed full-sized and small poodles, many “doodles,” a pair of greyhounds, and two bushy white huskys, each with one blue eye and one yellowish-grey eye. But most interesting are the many small dogs of too many breeds to count. More surprising than their abundance is their behavior. They all get along, they never fight and rarely growl or bark. Politicians should follow their lead. Kat. Kathrine, a retired boxer who now trains boxers, was teaching several students the fast-step exercises on the special mats. Her well behaved pit bull was sleeping until I came over and we played. Popeye the sailor man. Although Popeye became part of American culture in 1931, he traces back to the eighteenth century. Mothers, in their folk wisdom, created him as a man who ate green vegetables to gain strength. In cartoons green veggies became spinach, and he’d sometimes eat it through the pipe he never smoked. Spinach is about as good as vegetables get for any age, but the earlier a person starts eating it, the better. It even helps prevent macular degeneration in old age. And people of all ages enjoy Popeye. The Rim Trail. With warm weather and rain behind us, the Rim Trail deserves your time. A free map at the visitor’s center shows the many options you can take to all or part of the 4.5-mile trail. If you’d like a partner, e-mail me and we can walk it together. Plan on two hours from arriving to completion. I only insist we start early, before it gets too hot,+ and always bring water. Let me hear from you at jscala2@comcast.net.
LAFAYETTE JUNIORS HOST 18 TH ANNUAL KITCHEN TOUR
Tickets are on sale for the Lafayette Juniors 18th Annual Kitchen Tour. This self-guided tour will be held Saturday, May 20th from 10am to 3pm. The tour welcomes guests into six special Lafayette homes with masterfully-designed unique, elegant, and awe-inspiring kitchens. Attendees will receive a Kitchen Tour program detailing all of the distinctive design elements of the kitchens as well as information on the architects, designers, and contractors who created these spaces. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet with a few of the professionals who created these stunning spaces. Proceeds from this year’s event benefit the work of four local non-profit organizations: Contra Costa Interfaith Housing, Alternative Family Services, The Taylor Family Foundation, and Trinity Center. These organizations were selected by the Lafayette Juniors for the support they provide to women, families, and individuals in need throughout the East Bay. Tickets are $40 ($35 tax deductible), with a box lunch available for $15. Tickets can be purchased online at www.lafayettejuniors.org and are also available at Premier Kitchens located at 3373 Mt. Diablo Blvd. in Lafayette. “As we prepare for our Kitchen Tour, I’m reminded of what’s possible when we come together to raise funds for charity. The tour is a substantial fundraiser for our beneficiaries and gives them the ability to provide critical services to foster youth and families, affordable housing and supportive services to homeless families and individuals, and therapeutic experiences and support to children with life-threatening and chronic illnesses,” said Katie Morgan, Co-President of the Lafayette Juniors. “We would like to thank everyone who is helping to make this year’s Kitchen Tour possible from our sponsors and donors to our generous homeowners who are opening their homes to us all to make a difference in the lives of others.” For more information on the Lafayette Juniors Kitchen Tour and its beneficiaries, visit www.lafayettejuniors.org.
ABOUT LAFAYETTE JUNIORS
Founded in 1953, Lafayette Juniors is a non-profit organization made up of local women dedicated to raising funds and offering service in support of other non-profits that serve women, families, and seniors in need throughout Contra Costa and neighboring counties in the San Francisco Bay Area. Over the past 17 years, Lafayette Juniors have raised more than $650,000 for Bay Area non-profit groups.
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
PAGE 12 • LAFAYETTE TODAY • APRIL 2017
WAYS TO CELEBRATE EARTH DAY
By Sustainable Lafayette
Every year, as Earth Day rolls around, it’s important to take note of its origins. Earth Day 1970 – which placed environmental concerns right up there with the anti-war and civil rights movements – was supported by Republicans and Democrats, rich and poor, urban dwellers and farmers, CEOs and labor leaders. The first Earth Day led to the creation of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and passage of the Clean Air, Clean Water, and Endangered Species Acts. The brainchild of Sen. Gaylord Nelson of Wisconsin, Earth Day was “a national teach-in on the environment.” On April 22, 1970, 20 million Americans demonstrated for a healthy, sustainable environment in massive coast-to-coast rallies. It was neither politically partisan nor controversial. Today, Earth Day is recognized around the world on April 22, although festivals and rallies often are organized on the weekends before or after. Many communities also observe Earth Week or Earth Month, sponsoring a series of environmental activities throughout the month of April. In Lafayette, we are celebrating Earth Day on Sunday, April 23 in the streets near the Lafayette Library, from 11AM to 3PM. So, the #1 thing you can do to observe Earth Day is to come over with your family, friends, and neighbors and enjoy the day with us. Being surrounded by like-minded people might be as inspiring as the impressive array of vendors and exhibitors that Sustainable Lafayette has lined up for the event. Here are nine other things you can do to get in the Earth Day spirit: #2: Volunteer. Pick a non-profit whose environmental mission
CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL
By Linda Summers-Pirkle
“This is a very big deal,” my good friend Barb mentioned when she gave me a bit of history about the renowned Sensei Kayoko Fujimoto. Mrs. Fujimoto, an East Bay resident, was awarded “The Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Ray” by the Emperor of Japan in 2010 for her excellence in the field of Ikebana when the beloved instructor was 87 years old. Grand Master Fujumoto has been teaching Ikebana, the Japanese art of flower arrangement, for over 60 years. Ikebana has been practiced in Japan for over 600 years and if you are familiar with this beautiful and artful plant and flower craft you know there are certain rules to follow within your arrangements. My friend Barb has had the good fortune to study under Sensei Mrs. Kayoko Fujimoto, Ohara 3” X 5”Ikebana School Grand Master. Barb’s Oakland Hills home is always a place of beauty, Danville Today 190.00peace and harmony, and her stunning arrangements never fail to amaze me. w discount 142.50 th This year marks the 50 anniversary of the Cherry Blossom Festival, which will take place in San Francisco’s Japantown on two weekends: Alamo Today 155.00 April 8-9 and April 15-16. The free festival is organized by Sakura-Matsuri w discount 116.25 Inc., a nonprofit charitable organization to promote Japanese and Japanese American cultures. Thousands of people visit this festival every year which Lafayette 180.00 w discount 135.00
appeals to you and get in touch. You can work in the office, hack weeds on a trail, or host a fund-raiser. #3: Get out of your car. Carpool, tele-commute, ride a bike, or walk. #4: Pick an environmental issue, and contact the appropriate elected official whether it be local, countywide, statewide, or national. “Share” an email or letter with your friends, and fire them up, too! #5: Install solar panels…or at least do some research to see if your house is a candidate and if it’s financially feasible. #6: Change your lightbulbs. Prices on LEDs keep dropping. #7: Pay online. Save paper and protect yourself from mail theft. #8: Skip your shower! Do it just for the day, not the whole year. But keep washing your hands. #9: Eat less red meat. Animal agriculture is estimated to produce more greenhouse gases than the entire transportation industry combined. #10: Read – or re-read – Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring. The book documents the detrimental effects of the indiscriminate use of pesticides, most notably DDT, on the environment and particularly on birds. It became a rallying point for the environmental movement in the 1960s, culminating in Earth Day. For more ideas about how to transform your home and your community into a more sustainable place with enhanced quality of life for current and future residents, please visit sustainablelafayette.org. is second in size nationwide only to the Washington D.C. Cherry Blossom Festival. Since this is the 50th anniversary of the San Francisco event, you can expect even more crowds. But as Grace David, local resident who with her husband never misses the event, says, “It’s worth the crowds. There is so much to see and so much to do!” Some of the highlights are the Taiko Drum Performances, traditional Japanese music and dance, stations throughout the Festival to watch and learn about Chanoyu the Japanese Art Tea Ceremony, and a special area for children in the ever popular Sanrio Kids Corner. Grace mentioned that as much as she enjoys all the music, dance and crafts, her favorite part is definitely the food stalls. “The food is so great!” she added, “Tempura and Sukiyaki are my favorites.” One of the biggest highlights is the Grand Parade. This year it begins on Sunday, April 16, starting at City Hall at 1PM on Polk Street near McAllister. The grand marshal this year is the famous Konishiki, the former Sumo wrestler from Oahu, Hawaii. Parking spaces near the event are VERY limited during the festival. If you take BART from East Bay, take any Daly City/Millbrae bound train, and get off at Embarcadero Station. Take the #2-Clement bus at Steuart and Market Street (Ferry Plaza), and then get off at the Sutter and Laguna Street stop. To learn more, visit sfcherryblossom.org. Linda Summers Pirkle is inspired by the many wonderful places to visit in the Bay Area. She organizes day trips, either for groups or for friends and family. “What a great place to live, so much to see, so much to do.” To share your “Quick Trips” ideas email Coverthemap@gmail.com.
$$$
$$$
10.00 Bonus Coupon!
1 coupon per family. Not valid on previous purchases, other coupons and/or promotions. No cash substitutes. May not be used on payment of account. Excludes Pandora, Brighton, Alex and Ani, MacKenzie Childs Expires April 30, 2017
Walnut Creek, Broadway Plaza
Danville, The Livery Shopping Center
Present this coupon at point of purchase for 10.00 off your one-time purchase of 50.00 or more storewide*
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
APRIL 2017 • LAFAYETTE TODAY • PAGE 13
BUILDING WEALTH FROM THE GROUND UP
By George M. Noceti, CRPS® -Wealth Advisor and Paul A. Noceti, Financial Planning Specialist, Integra Group at Morgan Stanley
During the day, the next generation of wealth is busy building startups or running projects for major corporations. If you are an individual coming into wealth for the first time from a low- to middle-income background, a unique set of challenges presents itself as you attempt to both manage and enjoy your hard earned-wealth. One of these challenges may be student loan debt. Besides navigating yourself out of debt, it can be tough to navigate relationship dynamics and commitments when you are new to wealth. You may feel an understandable pull to give back to your family and community, but have a hard time balancing these commitments with those of your own self-care and personal investment. As your financial position improves, it is common to experience guilt and overwhelming feelings as you notice your improved position relative to your family and friends. These feelings can have an impact on how you relate to your family and community and how you understand your role and function in those relationships. Couple these feelings with others’ new perception of you as a “wealthy” person, and it can be easy to fall prey to a perceived responsibility for others that exhausts your emotional and financial resources. Here are a few ways to take care of your own financial health as you navigate this exciting but challenging new position of wealth.
START SAVING NOW
A Stroll Down Restaurant Row Tuesday, May 16, 2017 5:30pm - 9:00pm Wine & Appetizers 5:30pm - 6:30pm Downtown Lafayette Live Music
Stroll & Taste 6:30pm - 8:30pm
Sample 20+ Restaurants Walk or Take the Free Shuttle
Purchase tickets online at LafayetteChamber.org/Taste
Dessert & Coffee 8:00pm - 9:00pm
Tickets are Limited! When we’re young, it is easy to feel as if retirement is a lifetime $50/person* away. We may spend very little time, if any, thinking about practical SPECTACULAR RAFFLE! ways to prepare for our golden years. “I’ll take care of that in a decade Raffle tickets can be purchased at the *Early Bird Price: Lafayette Chamber of Commerce, or two,” one might think. But if anything teaches us that the time to at The Taste of Lafayette, or via email at start saving is now, it is the importance of compound interest on your $45 through May 1, 2017 info@lafayettechamber.org. retirement contributions. For an example of how compound interest can make a considerable difference, imagine this example of a 22-year-old who starts contributing 10% of his $60K annual salary to his 401(k), with 2% added by his employer. By the time of his retirement, he could end up with over a LAFAYETTE million dollars as his nest egg. In comparison, imagine a 45-year-old who contributes $1,000 per month, but over just a 20-year period. She will reach retirement with around 50% less than the 22-year-old, even though she contributed more monthly and more in total over the life of her contributions. Presented by the Lafayette Chamber of Commerce. Proceeds also benefit the Lafayette Community Foundation. Compound interest is a perfect reason to start saving now, even if all you can afford at the moment is a modest monthly commitment of less than 10% of your monthly salary. C H AM B ER
BUILD A BUDGET
Scrap the “entitlement gene” mentality that is all too common among millennials. This is a mentality that resists advice, especially when it comes to budgeting. Rather than focusing on near-term pleasures, build a concrete and coherent five-year plan to hunker down on short-term success. In addition to the five-year plan, in the immediate term there are certain “rules of thumb” that may help to align you with smarter budgeting. For example, it is suggested not to let your monthly rent exceed 30% of your gross monthly income. Relatedly, try not to let your vehicle expenses exceed 10% of your income. And while it can be hard to determine how much to spend on your wants unless you have concrete figures, consider working with a 30%-and-under after-tax allowance for discretionary expenses.
S.M.A.R.T.1 INVESTMENTS
There are a number of different ways to invest your wealth for long-term benefit. You might finally make a go at that startup idea or invest in further education. Purchasing your first home is another great way to invest your new wealth and ensure that this wealth supports you in the longer term. It is understandable and admirable to want to give back to your family and community, but you will be of more service over time if you take care of your own financial health first by investing in yourself. These three suggestions (saving for retirement, budgeting, and investing) can help you to feel more grounded in your financial future, and also help to offset the stresses that come with new wealth. Contact us for further information on how our advice can better help you plan financially. Also contact us for a complimentary Financial review, Long Term Care review, Medicare review, or Social Security review at (925)746-2982, via email at george.noceti@morganstanley.com, or visit our website at www.ms.com/ fa/theintegragroup. Connect on LinkedIn: George M. Noceti, CRPS®. Follow me on Twitter: @GNocetiMS. Sources/Disclaimer - S.M.A.R.T.: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time1
oriented; http://hr.wayne.edu/leads/phase1/smart-objectives.php. Laura Agadoni, “What Percent of Your Take-Home Pay Should Be Discretionary Income?”. thenest.com. http://budgeting.thenest.com/percent-takehome-pay-should-discretionary-income-26839.html. Matthew J. Belvedere, “3 Money Musts for ‘Clueless’ Millennials”. Cnbc.com, July 20th, 2015. http://www.cnbc.com/2015/07/20/3-money-musts-for-clueless-millennials-advisor.html. Morgan Stanley, “Home Buying Begins at the Ground Floor”.morganstanley.com, http://www.morganstanley. com/articles/home-buying-checklist. Morgan Stanley, “The Millennials Guide to a Sweet Retirement.” Forbes.com, June 6th, 2016. http://www.forbes.com/sites/morganstanley/2016/06/06/the-millennials-guide-to-a-sweet-retirement/#70d06a6e5837. The opinions expressed by the authors are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Morgan Stanley. The information and data in the article or publication has been obtained from sources outside of Morgan Stanley and Morgan Stanley makes no representations or guarantees as to the accuracy or completeness of information or data from sources outside of Morgan Stanley. Neither the information provided nor any opinion expressed constitutes a solicitation by Morgan Stanley with respect to the purchase or sale of any security, investment, strategy or product that may be Advertorial mentioned. © 2017 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC. CRC 1714877 02/17
PAGE 14 • LAFAYETTE TODAY • APRIL 2017
PITFALLS OF INTRA-FAMILY REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS
By Robert J. Silverman, Esq.
Many clients ask me to advise them about how to best structure a gift (or sale) to a loved one of all or a fractional interest in real estate. I enjoy helping clients strategize about how to structure, document, and implement such transactions. All too often, I hear about an intra-family gift or sale after it has already been completed. The owners sometime tell me they handled it themselves because it was “very straightforward.” Unfortunately, when I’m consulted “after the fact,” I frequently need to apprise such clients that they made costly strategic and/or procedural errors. Handling an intra-family real estate transaction without obtaining professional legal and tax advice is perilous. Even seemingly simple arrangements can have dramatic implications, many of which are not apparent to laypeople. Here, I’m able to only scratch the surface about common pitfalls. This piece is intended to serve as an overview of some of the many and varied components in this complex arena. In doing so, I hope that the reader will embrace the importance of obtaining comprehensive professional advice before entering into any intra-family real estate transactions. These transactions (which include the seemingly innocuous act of “adding someone to the title” of your property) may involve some or all of these important considerations, among others: Federal Gift Tax & Estate Tax - Gifting property of a value that exceeds certain threshold amounts can trigger tax reporting requirements. One can unwittingly use portions of one’s Federal Gift Tax and Estate Tax exemptions in an inefficient manner, and thus negatively affect potential future tax liability (under this specialized and complicated federal tax system). Income Tax - A gift of a full or partial interest in a property can have income tax consequences. Many elderly people gift real property to their children without understanding the future income tax consequences for the children (when the
EARTH CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE
There will be lots of opportunities for children and teens to learn how to be environmental stewards for their community and help contribute to its sustainability. Lamorinda 4-H will have a petting zoo featuring their livestock projects, Global Student Embassy will demonstrate how to create a garden in a small space, the Lafayette Community Garden will bring vegetable starts and display chickens, Imperfect Produce representatives will talk about food waste and encourage purchasing of “cosmetically challenged” produce, and White Pony Express will present information about their food rescue program. Sustainable Lafayette will also host a “Repair Café” where volunteers will repair household items on-site to prevent them from going to a landfill. In addition, there will be hands-on activities for youth including an “adventure playground” where children can use their imaginations to make their own creations using recycled materials. Global Student Embassy will lead a community participation art project using plastic straws collected locally to educate community members about the waste created by single-use plastic straws. There will also be an environmentally themed scavenger hunt and a “Safe Moves Bike Rodeo” along Golden Gate Way where participants can learn best practices in bike safety, and Boy Scouts can work towards a biking merit badge by participating. Attendees can choose from a variety of sustainable and healthy food options, and enjoy entertainment including live music and screenings of environmentally themed films produced by local youth. The annual Lafayette Awards of Environmental Excellence, more commonly known as the Lafayette Green Awards, will be announced at the festival. The awards recognize outstanding efforts that contribute to a more sustainable community and help the City achieve its environmental goals. Attendees are encouraged to find alternative modes of transportation to the festival since there is limited parking around the event location. Those driving to the event are encouraged to park at Stanley Middle School. For those who choose to bike to the festival, there will be a free bicycle valet with hosted by a local Cub Scout troop. The Lafayette Earth Day Festival is organized and hosted by Sustainable Lafayette, the Lafayette Library and Learning Center, the Lafayette Chamber of Commerce, and the City of Lafayette. Vendors include Republic Services, MCE, Rising Sun Energy, Imperfect Produce, White Pony Express, and many more.
www.yourmonthlypaper.com children later sell the property). Many times, these income tax ramifications are such that an elder is better advised to retain the property until his or her death. Also, if the elderly person needs funds to maintain or enhance his or her lifestyle, alternative strategies may make more sense than gifting or selling (such as renting out the property, taking out a loan, or obtaining a reverse mortgage). Property Tax - Valuable property tax reassessment exclusions may apply, including those available for many parent-child real estate transfers. One should be advised about whether the particular transaction renders it eligible for reassessment exclusion, and certain forms must be completed in a timely manner and filed with the Assessor. If these rules and procedures are not strictly followed, the benefit may be forfeited. Living Trust/Will - When people gift property to one but not all of their loved ones, they’re often inclined to adjust (i.e. increase) how much their other loved ones (those not receiving the real estate gift) will receive on the owner’s death. When owners fail to work with their estate planning attorney to affirmatively make such formal estate planning document changes, troublesome unintended consequences can result. Mortgages - When a gifted property still has a mortgage, the transfer by gift or sale nearly always gives the lender the option to call the full loan balance due immediately. Fractional Interest Gifts - If a fractional interest in real estate is gifted, key decisions should be made, and steps should be taken, in addition to those set forth above. These include decisions and agreements among the co-owners about titling, management, respective rights and obligations, and succession of interests if a co-owner dies. Accordingly, it is generally wise to have an attorney draft a comprehensive “co-ownership” agreement. * Estate Planning * Trust Administration & Probate * Real Estate * Business Please contact the author to request a complimentary: i) “Estate Planning Primer”; ii) Real Estate titling brochure; iii) introductory meeting. Mr. Silverman is an attorney with R. Silverman Law Group which is located at 1855 Olympic Blvd., Suite 125, Walnut Creek, CA 94596; (925) 705-4474; rsilverman@rsilvermanlaw.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
ABOUT SUSTAINABLE LAFAYETTE
Sustainable Lafayette is a 501c3 grassroots not-for-profit organization that provides Lafayette citizens with the information, inspiration, tools, and assistance to facilitate the adoption of a more sustainable lifestyle. The organization supports the community by localizing information and collaborating with organizations and businesses in and around Lafayette to create programs that teach and encourage earth-friendly practices. For more information, please visit www.sustainablelafayette.org.
CSL’S HEART OF THE HOME TOUR
The five striking homes open for the Children’s Support League’s (CSL) 29th annual Heart of the Home Tour are all starting their second century with stylish renovation and remodeling. Tickets are now on sale for the tour, which is scheduled for Friday and Saturday, April 28-29. The tour homes include a Mediterranean villa nestled in lush gardens, a grand dame on Piedmont’s historic row, a beautifully remodeled Santa Barbara Monterey, an ingeniously redesigned 1911 Cape Cod, and a French Normandy with vibrant new décor.
JULIE BARTON TO SPEAK AT TOUR VIP PROGRAM
Julie Barton, the New York Times bestselling author of Dog Medicine, How My Dog Saved Me from Myself (Penguin 2016), will be the speaker at a continental breakfast for VIP ticket holders on the morning of Friday, April 28. Among other accolades, the book was named a 2016 best memoir by both Oprah.com and Huffington Post. An engaging speaker, Ms. Barton lives locally with her husband, two children, and a menagerie of pets. In addition to breakfast with Ms. Barton, those who purchase a VIP ticket get admission to the five tour houses, lunch on their own schedule at the Piedmont Community Center, and an invitation to the Wednesday evening tour kick-off party at a private home in Piedmont. Tickets are $45 in advance price (tour only) or $55 (tour + lunch). The VIP ticket, $125, includes the tour of five houses, Wednesday evening kickoff party at a sixth house, and a Friday morning continental breakfast with the special guest speaker. For tour details and tickets, visit www.ChildrensSupportLeague.org. Since 1988, CSL has raised over $3.5 million to provide grants to non-profit agencies in Alameda and Contra Costa Counties that support at-risk children. CSL is a voluntary, member-supported 501(C) (3) nonprofit.
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
APRIL 2017 • LAFAYETTE TODAY • PAGE 15
ENERGY CURRENTS
THE MARKET, THE CORRECTION, THE FALLOUT, AND RISK MITIGATION By Mark Becker, GoSimple Solar
The solar industry is very similar to many other industries. Companies and individuals enter and exit markets based on market forces and real or perceived expectations for business success. Success, and therefore business growth, in a strong market is often assumed. That growth and success can be gained by the strength of the market, earned by excellent business and product offerings, or achieved simply by good timing. The intent of the California Solar Initiative (CSI) and the 30% Federal Tax Credit for solar were to fuel growth of a nascent industry until it matured so that it could eventually compete with Investor Owned Utilities such as PG&E. In our market, that goal has been achieved for most PG&E ratepayers. There is also plenty of room and financial incentive for continued customer growth in our market. It is a natural business process that competition in a strong market will increase. Recently, it has become clear that the solar market in California has been headed towards, or is already experiencing in finance terms, a “correction.” The law of supply and demand dictates that with high supply (service providers in this case) and lesser or equal demand (same number or fewer customers) comes lower pricing. Typically, for the consumer, lower pricing is good news. I agree, to an extent. A lower pricing may initially increase or simply protect a business’ market share, but it also has a tendency to push businesses into “survival mode.” An improperly managed survival mode oftentimes results in shortcuts in business practices, such as reduction in insurance coverage, product quality, installation practices, the list goes on. The result, of course, is that the consumer can suffer. Unfortunately, we’re seeing the fallout of the solar market correction in the Bay Area. Big and small box solar companies, and even regional players, have failed, or moved out of the market. The legacy of these companies now rests with the permanence of social media reviews and the literally millions of solar panels that they have installed. Shortcuts in a service-oriented business are not beneficial to the long-term interests of the business and are especially detrimental for the consumer. Prioritizing one over the other will be a destructive long-term business plan. As I’ve mentioned many times, a poorly installed and aesthetically unappealing solar PV system, consisting of mediocre products will certainly be appealing in price, but it risks the investment you have made in the long-term. Mitigating risk and maximizing aesthetic appeal are the best value the solar industry can bring to itself by providing proper service to the consumer. Proper design, proper installation, calculation of proper Return on Investment, etc., require a lot of effort. It’s the market (the consumer) that decides what they’ll pay for a service and a product. But ultimately, it’s the business that decides at what price they will sell that product and service. Pricing your own business into oblivion is NOT advantageous for any of the participants in the transaction. If you are considering solar, ask the providers this: What’s the long term plan for risk mitigation? Are the spec’d products compatible with other products? What are the contingency plans for equipment failure if the product is indeed proprietary and NOT compatible with other manufacturers products? Much like installers, there are plenty of equipment manufacturers that are no longer in business. Have or make a plan. If you are the owner of a solar PV system, and the solar PV installation company is no longer in business, make a plan for risk mitigation by establishing a relationship with a company that is prepared to perform whatever servicing your solar PV system may need. A safety and a performance inspection should be step one to determine if your solar PV system may need attention, now or in the future. Protect your investment, and protect your home. It can be done. My approach to solar projects is simply this -- a solar PV project, assuming it’s installed on a home that will financially benefit (and most will, significantly) must be designed with one consideration in mind, and one alone, and that is the project must be designed to remain relevant for 25 + years. GoSimpleSolar math. Solar PV relevance = aesthetics + longevity (compatibility of product selection) + performance. Summary. You can’t predict the future of a business’ success, but appropriate with research, you CAN be certain that the PRODUCTS a business offers and the qualification of the installation team that installs them CAN provide you with the greatest likelihood of long-term success, lowest risk, and ultimately, lowest LONG-TERM cost. Mark Becker is the President and business owner of GoSimpleSolar, by Semper Fidelis Construction Inc, CSLB 948715. GoSimpleSolar is one of the very few solar PV installers utilizing both licensed roofers and licensed electricians for installation work, project managed by a solar PV NABCEP professional. For more Advertorial information, call 925-331-8011, visit www.GoSimpleSolar.com, or stop by the showroom at 115 West Linda Mesa Avenue, Danville.
Solar
By Semper Fidelis Construction, Inc. CSLB 948715 NABCEP 110112-15
Is Your Solar PV System Performing as Promised?
The ONLY Way You’ll Know: A Third Party Safety Inspection and Performance Check
NABCEP Solar PV Certified: Performance Tests Licensed Roofer: Leak Checks, Roof Checks Licensed Electrician: Wiring and Safety Checks Repair of Existing Installations
Setting the Standard of Contracting Integrity in the I-680 and Route 24 Corridor See Our Showroom 115 West Linda Mesa Ave | Danville
925.331.8011
www.GoSimpleSolar.com
PAGE 16 • LAFAYETTE TODAY • APRIL 2017
TREE OF THE SEASON
By Blaine Brende & Joe Lamb JAPANESE MAPLES
Japanese maples have an elegance and sculptural quality that resembles dance. Careful study of their form, in any season, can call the viewer back to the natural world. In winter, the falling leaves raise the curtain on the form of the trunks and put the dance on center stage. Winter rain intensifies the show by adding a sensuality to the movement of stem and bough, one that beckons to even the unpracticed eye. In spring, certain varieties of Japanese maples send out new leaves so bright a green they appear lit from within. In summer, upright cultivars that are well pruned have spaces between the branches, giving the canopy the appearance of being composed of many floating islands. And in fall, Japanese maples mark the change of season by turning colors ranging from yellow to scarlet, depending on the variety of maple; there are many varieties. Luckily, Japanese maples are relatively easy to grow and relatively tough. In their long evolutionary dance–fossilized maple leaves date back over 60 million years–Japanese maples have developed the genetic information necessary to protect them against most common garden afflictions. They are, however, subject to verticillium wilt, a soil-borne fungal disease that can cause dieback, and sometimes death. There is no known cure for verticillium, but you can decrease the likelihood of your new maple getting the disease if you 1) don’t plant it in ground known to have verticillium, 2) make sure the soil around the tree is well drained so that the roots don’t remain soggy throughout the winter, and 3) protect the tree against environmental stresses by giving it summer water and keeping it well mulched. Maples can grow and remain healthy in gardens with a history of verticillium. If they are not stressed by soils too damp, too dry, or too compacted, some individual maples can thrive even though a near neighbor may die. It depends on the genetics of the individual. If your mature maple shows significant dieback, it may be fighting a case of verticillium. It is not necessarily a death sentence. Some trees succeed in fighting off the disease.
GARDENING WITH KATE
By Kathleen Guillaume
Sadly, it will be another peachless summer. My wonderful Alberta coaxed by warm mid-March days held tons of blossoms. I could almost taste that first peach of summer...but the squally, very heavy rains of late March tore all of the blossoms from my tree. I wanted to truly sit down and cry. Gardening does have such disappointments: frosts that wipe out a beloved specimen plant, fruit blossoms torn away by winds and rain, or a heat spell that desiccates sections of your garden. The thing about gardeners is that we have learned to be hopeful and resilient; we have no other choice but to look forward to the next season and the bounty it might provide. If your roses are like mine, they can still be shaped to keep them healthy by removing crossing branches and cutting out branches that fill the center, or pruning them in a way to encourage outward growth. Remember that if at any time the foliage becomes subject to black spot or rust, remove the infected leaves immediately from both the plant and those that have fallen on the ground, and spray the entire plant with Horticultural oil which is non-toxic...please don’t use fungicides which are both unhealthy for you and your family, but are also bad for pets and our environment. If you get a major aphid outbreak, because they seem to love new growth, spray the leaves and stems with Windex, which will not harm the rose and has just enough ammonia to suffocate those little pests. I am hoping for my bees to come and mingle among my spring blossoms. I have such a dearth of bees, and unfortunately I have too many neighbors who use pesticides, not realizing how devastating they can be. One early-to-plant neighbor has managed to clean all of her beds, and her tomatoes are already a healthy 18” high. This is a reminder that I am behind in my gardening schedule. I hope to have mine in before Easter. Everything is ready for planting. My order is placed for some true geraniums to fill the edges of some of my
www.yourmonthlypaper.com You can help them recover by pruning out the deadwood and improving the soil environment by mulching and aerating. Though some varieties can withstand full sun, Japanese maples do best in part shade. They do not thrive when exposed to the drying effect of constant wind. If you live on an exposed hillside, it is best to plant them in the lee of a larger tree. Dieback in Japanese maple crowns often is the result of too much sun, too much wind, or the even more deadly combination of the two. Maples need water. Keeping them moist throughout the summer and fall, and into the early winter in dry years, will make them happier and more disease resistant. Pruning, besides benefiting the mental health of the pruner, can enhance the grace of the plant. If your pruner is an artist, removing deadwood and teasing apart the plant’s natural layering opens little windows that reveal and accentuate the tree’s natural form. A well-pruned tree looks as if it hasn’t been pruned. Paradoxically, it looks more natural after pruning than before. Though it is sometimes necessary to lower the crown of a maple, as when it is beginning to block a treasured view, lowering should be done only when necessary, and the lowering should not be so drastic as to involve topping cuts (see the article on topping). Lowering a maple to gain a view is not something that you can do just once. Pruning down the crown stimulates new growth, and maintaining the view or the size reduction, will require yearly pruning. No matter how good the artist, you can’t make a topped maple look as good as a natural tree. Much pruning, and therefore expense, can be avoided by planting the right variety in the right place. When planting a new tree, plant a cultivar that won’t exceed the desired height when it matures. This is almost always preferable to containing a variety that will grow beyond the desired size. It is our hope at Brende & Lamb that the pleasure our clients derive from their well-pruned trees exceeds the considerable pleasure we get from revealing the beauty inherent in their trees. If your trees need a little TLC, please call 510-486-TREE (8733) or email us at bl@brendelamb.com for a free estimate. Additionally, go to our website www.brendelamb.com to see before and after pictures, client testimonials, and work in your neighborhood. Advertorial pots. My favorites are ‘Nutmeg,’ which has a nice mounding growth pattern, and ‘Green Apple,’ which also has a mounding habit and whose leaves are perfect in pound cakes. Another geranium I love is ‘Lady Grey,’ which is a tall vertical geranium whose leaves have so much fragrance that people stop to try to figure out what it is that is so enticing. It makes a lovely tea. Ask your local nursery about the fragrant geraniums. While shopping, rub the leaves and figure out if the fragrance pleases you. Another great thing which are easy peasy to plant this time of year are nasturtiums. They need full sun and not too rich a soil. They need moist soil to get a good start, and they are very easy to grow from seed. Your nursery should have a good selection in stock at this time. They are excellent for salads and for garnish. We all probably remember them most from our childhood, when we would pick the blooms and bite off the tail and let the nectar spill onto our tongues. The leaves and blossoms have a peppery taste. My favorite is ‘Mahogany,’ a deep reddish brown, and I love the orange and yellow blends like ‘Double Gleam Mix’ or the red-red orange of ‘Empress of India.’ For the edges of pots, I prefer ‘Double Dwarf.’ The seed is as large as a pea and wrinkly and easy to handle, and it should be planted about ½” deep and topped with mulch to keep the soil moist. They bloom late spring through late summer. If they are planted in too rich a soil or in shade, you will end up with mostly foliage and few blooms. They are available in six-packs, but I find the best results come from seed. Zinnias are also easy to grow from seed, and there are now some amazing hybrids available. ‘Queen Red Lime’ is a newer variety that has a blended pale pink through purple blooms with greenish tints with deep rose eyes. This is a new Burpee variety. I can imagine it in a bouquet with the Rose ‘Eden’ which is a cream with deep pink edges whose buds are kissed by a greenish cast, along with a Nicotiana ‘Lime Green,’ and some of the new blended sweet peas. That is what I love about the internet: it is so easy to look up plants and see their bloom colors and find new hybrids...those seed guys are always working hard to amaze us. Happy Gardening!
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
LIFE IN THE LAFAYETTE GARDEN
HIATUS FOR JOHN! By John Montgomery, ASLA, Landscape Architect #4059
APRIL 2017 • LAFAYETTE TODAY • PAGE 17
YOUR LOCAL LEADER IN SOLAR
“Life in the Garden!” was the title of the first article I wrote in July 2002! I’ve been writing articles So every l a rTech n o l og i es.co m month since then, and I have had a lot fun doing so. After fifteen years, I’ve decided it’s time to take a hiatus from my article writing. I remember the publisher of the first Alamo Today paper telling me to use a nice photo of myself with my article so people could put a face with the words. Now when I’m out, people look at me like “I know that guy,” or people wonder why my hat’s on backwards! Being recognized and talking to all of you in the grocery store about your gardens is one of my favorite things. Over the years while waiting in line, we’ve discussed various subjects from my articles. One of my favorite discussions is the sound made when walking on gravel pathways or how water should sound in a water feature. I’ve been asked a lot of interesting questions from how to get FREE ENERGY ANALYSIS! · 3,000+ installs
CALL NOW (888) SOLPOWER
· Locally owned since 1998 · Professional, exceptional service · World’s most powerful panels
So l a rTech n o l o g i es.co m
rid of turkeys, to what is the best ground cover for my dogs to pee on? One of my favorite parts of writing each article was finding great garden quotes each month. Moving forward, there are wonderful things happening with my landscape architecture firm, so stand by! I’ve been paying close attention in-the-Safeway-line-chats, and I hear you when you say, “John you’re just too gosh darn expensive, and I am scared to call you!” Problem solved! I am currently expanding my team so we can offer a broader spectrum of cost-effective services. I will continue to focus on the major upscale projects with my team, as we’ve always done, and the new division will provide smaller scale design services and planting spruce-ups. This means if you want to update a small portion of your yard or simply update your entry pots, we can help you with that, too. It’s a wonderful thing having a growing team that can provide the kind of quality and customer service I like to deliver. I encourage you to contact us and let us know exactly the types of services you would love for us to provide. Call the office at 925-820-8884, or email us at contact@jm-la.com. I wanted to give you a heads-up about my hiatus from my articles so you don’t think for a minute that I am retiring. I truly love what I do and plan to do so for many years to come! After all, Frank Lloyd Wright is my idol, and God willing you’ll see me around town sporting my hat until I’m 110! After all, 110 is the new 80! Thank you all for reading my articles. I hope they have been helpful and interesting to you. I’ll be back later with further updates, so please stay in touch! A hot tip from your local Landscape Architect: Remember that every square inch in your garden has a purpose; be creative and have fun! Life happens in your garden! Gardening Quote of the Month: Here’s one of my favorites: “I say, if your knees aren’t green by the end of the day, you ought to seriously re-examine your life.” ~ Bill Watterson, Calvin & Hobbes For design ideas visit www.jm-la.com or visit our Houzz page www. houzz.com/pro/jmla/ john-montgomery-landscape-architects.Advertorial
SPRINGTIME WINE GUIDE
By Monica Chappell
Around the start of spring, bottles of rosé start appearing on retail shelves like little soldiers ready for a season of barbecues. Rosé is delicious, yes, but if you only drink the pink stuff from now until the end of warm weather, you might quickly get bored. Fortunately, rosé is far from your only choice for interesting wine in the springtime. Get to know some of these wines, and try them next time you’re after just the right bottle for these sunny days and breezy nights.
GREEN WINES WITH SALAD
White wines with ‘green’ flavors such as gooseberry or bell pepper will shine with greens. Try Vinho Verde, Grüner Veltliner, Sauvignon Blanc, and Albariño. • Balancing Bitterness: Generally speaking, most leafy greens have a bitter note to them, so make sure your wine is lacking bitterness. • Think Acidity: The wine should have more acidity than the salad so it won’t taste flat.
SYRAH AND SPRING LAMB
Syrah and grilled lamb make a beautiful couple. In general, Syrah is great with red meats and the smoky flavors of the grill. • Where’s the Beef: If you don’t like lamb, try beef or sausages with your Syrah.
FLORAL WINE WITH FRESH FRUIT
Wines with floral aromatics have an affinity to fruit. The floral aromas in the wine will be more present when you try them with foods that use fruit. • Acidity: Remember the tip above about wines having more acidity than the food? Keep this tip in mind with fruit as well. • The Wine Should be Sweeter: If your food is sweet, it’s smart to pick a wine that’s sweeter, as this will ensure the wine doesn’t get lost in the sweetness of the food. Keep this in mind especially if you’re having dessert. Perhaps try a Moscato, Riesling, or Gewürztraminer. Happy Spring! Monica Chappell is a wine writer and educator and can be reached at wineappreciation101@gmail.com.
PAGE 18 • LAFAYETTE TODAY • APRIL 2017
YOUR PERSONAL NUTRITIONIST
WHY AM I NOT LOSING WEIGHT WITH ALL OF THIS EXERCISE? By Linda Michaelis RD, MS
Springtime is the best time of year to embark on a weight loss regimen. As the weather warms up we require less food opposed to during the winter when we need food for fuel to keep us warm. I see many clients confusing hunger with feeling cold during the winter months. My favorite challenge is working with a client who is tracking calories, exercising, eating better, and still not losing weight. When a new client calls me and says they are doing all the right things to lose weight and not making progress, a list of possible scenarios runs through my head.
YOU ARE EATING BACK ALL THE CALORIES YOU BURN.
When you work out, you burn extra calories. That is why exercise is so important in the weight-loss equation. However, a lot of people overestimate how much they burn—and even use the “I exercised today” excuse to over eat and over drink. How many times have you faced a food temptation and thought, “Well, I worked out today, so it’s OK this time.” Or, “I’ll have this now, but work out extra hard tomorrow.” If that sounds all-too-familiar, this could be a major reason why you’re not losing weight. We often overestimate how many calories we actually burn and underestimate how many calories we actually consume. Workout trainers tell me that they think weight loss is 80% nutrition and 20% exercise.
YOU’RE RELYING ON EXERCISE ALONE TO DO THE TRICK.
Exercising can help you lose weight because it helps you create the calorie deficit needed to lose weight. The real truth is exercise alone will not help you lose weight. Honestly, it takes a lot of time and effort to burn even a few calories. A full hour of intense exercise may only burn 400-500 calories for many people. On the flipside, it’s easy to eat hundreds or thousands of calories in even a few minutes. But it would take hours of exercise to offset those calories. If you are not changing your diet and reducing your calorie intake, exercise alone probably won’t help your weight-loss results.
MAHJONG CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE players on a single table, and it is extremely sociable. “You can’t have mahjong without the sociable aspect,” says Moreno. The length of a game depends on the skill level: a beginner might need to calculate moves a bit longer than more experienced players who typically finish a game in an hour. The game is similar to Rummy and is played with a set of 144 tiles based on Chinese characters and symbols. Each player begins by receiving 13 tiles. Players then draw and discard tiles until they complete a legal hand and build a set using the 14th drawn tile to form four groups (meld) and a pair (eye). PML offers two types of Mahjong gatherings: “Learn to Play Riichi Mahjong,” where they focus on teaching beginners how to play, and “PML Riichi League Play,” a competitive league between its more experienced players. Signups for either are taken via Meetup at https://www.meetup. com/pacificml/. Club members include both males and females of all age ranges – including teens. Players in the Danville chapter come from all over the Bay Area: San Francisco, Sunnyvale, Walnut Creek, and San Jose. More than 25 members attend regularly throughout the year, with 8 to 16 people at an average Meetup event. “We meet up every Sunday starting at 2PM in Danville, aside from the weekends when we are hosting Mahjong events at different conventions around the state or West coast,” says Moreno. “PML is a great group for meeting new friends! We often talk to each other outside of the PML meetups, and we even host casual game nights during the week as well. A number of our members have even received job connections through the club. For me personally, outside of PML, I have friends and acquaintances from all over the world that I know through Riichi Mahjong. It’s a very sociable game. The world of Riichi Mahjong is big and is growing ever larger.” For more information, visit www.pacificml.com or https://www.meetup. com/pacificml/.
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
YOU ARE NOT EATING AS HEALTHY AS YOU THINK.
We all think we eat pretty well. Even people who eat a pretty bad diet don’t think it’s that bad. Often I see people who exercise skimp on eating during the day after exercising and eating heavier at night. It should be the other way around. After you exercise your metabolism is sped up and calories are burned off at three times the rate compared to many hours later. Eating late night meals because of our busy schedules can also prevent weight loss. We enjoy alcohol, but these drinks are full of calories. A large glass of wine can easily equal 200 calories. I find many people eating too much cheese, nuts, olives, and avocados. These can be considered healthy fats, however they are often consumed in quantities that add an abundance of calories as well.
YOU ARE DOING THE WRONG KINDS OF EXERCISE.
When it comes to exercising there is much confusion. One day you hear that strength training is the best way to lose weight. The next day you’re told to focus on cardio. For my clients that walk for exercise, I tell them they must step it up and do interval training that will shock the metabolism. Cardio is the key for weight loss, and strength training is to keep your muscles looking toned and feeling strong.
YOU ARE NOT BEING CONSISTENT ENOUGH.
When struggling to lose those final 5-10 pounds, consistent efforts are important. Do you try to eat “perfectly” and exercise for a whole week, only to step on the scale to see that you haven’t lost an ounce? You may think, “What is the point?” and go on an all-out eating feast and skip the gym for a couple days. This is when clients call me and say they are having an emergency. It is my job to teach you how to enjoy birthday cake, drinks, and socializing with friends. You need a plan that includes your favorite foods and is enjoyable with no deprivation. My eight week Royal Treatment Program is my most popular plan for successful weight loss. It includes a weekly visit and coaching by text, phone, or email. Call me and I will tell you about the program and how it can work for you. Insurance companies such as Aetna, Anthem, Blue Shield, Health Net, and Sutter Health cover nutritional counseling. Please visit www.LindaRD.com for more information about your nutritional concerns, call (925) 855-0150, or e-mail me at lifeweight1@yahoo.com. Advertorial
BRAINWAVES BY BETSY STREETER
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
IN PLASTIC SURGERY, IT’S THE LITTLE THINGS THAT COUNT
By Barbara Persons, MD, Persons Plastic Surgery, Inc.
For most of us, the littlest things can have the biggest impact on our happiness. As a mother of three, nothing makes me happier than a pair of little arms from one of my kids wrapped around my neck. As a board-certified plastic surgeon, nothing is more precious to me than the big hug I get from a patient on whom I have operated after a difficult ordeal (like breast cancer) or performed a cosmetic procedure on that helps them get their ‘groove’ back. I think a lot about the little things as summer approaches and we begin to bare more of our skin. Many people panic about this level of exposure and we begin to focus on the parts of our body and face that feel less than perfect to us. What most people unfamiliar with cosmetic and reconstructive surgery do not know is that there are many little ways that we can address and improve how we look that can have a huge impact on how we feel about ourselves. In many cases, my patients experience the most satisfying results when we take an incremental approach to improvements. For example, using fillers like Radiesse®, Juvéderm®, and Restylane® in strategic spots on the face can create a look of vibrancy and youth that is completely natural, budget-friendly, and results in no down-time. This is also the time of year when many of my patients choose to do more advanced procedures like blepharoplasty (eyelid lifts) and breast augmentation or lifts. While these surgeries do require more healing time, the impact they have is quite remarkable. Here are a few of the procedures that we offer at Persons Plastic Surgery, Lafayette that can help you look and feel ready for summer: Fraxel® Laser is proven laser technology that can help reverse the visible effects of aging, naturally helping you look as young as you feel. Fraxel technology is proven, effective, and non-invasive.
“FIESTA DE JARDÍN” FUNDRAISER FOR NONPROFIT GARDEN & EDUCATION CENTER
The spirit of the tropics comes to Walnut Creek for Fiesta de Jardín, a Latin-inspired afternoon garden party on the beautiful, flower-filled grounds of The Gardens at Heather Farm. On Sunday, May 7th from 2-5PM, guests will enjoy a variety of small plate tapas, refreshing beverages, dessert, and live music while celebrating spring in the garden and raising funds for the host organization’s nonprofit programs. Experience an afternoon like never before at The Gardens’ biggest fundraiser of the year! The Gardens at Heather Farm is located at 1540 Marchbanks Drive in Walnut Creek. Tickets cost $45 for members of The Gardens and $50 for the public. Tickets are available online at gardenshf.org or by phone at (925) 947-1678.
ABOUT THE GARDENS AT HEATHER FARM
The Gardens at Heather Farm (GHF) is an independent nonprofit organization which operates a six-acre public garden, education center, and special event venue. A Certified Wildlife Habitat and Certified Green Business, GHF is self-supporting through memberships, fundraisers, grants, private donations, facility rentals, and program fees. The mission is to enrich the community through the beauty and environmental stewardship of the gardens while providing educational programs and a variety of venues for social and cultural events. Learn more at www.gardenshf.org, www.facebook.com/gardenshf, www. twitter.com/gardenshf, or www.instagram.com/gardensh.
APRIL 2017 • LAFAYETTE TODAY • PAGE 19
Fraxel® Laser is the original fractional laser treatment that works below the skin’s surface to address fine lines and wrinkles, surface scarring, pigmentation (including age spots), and sun damage. Fractionated laser light energy stimulates your skin’s natural collagen, rejuvenating skin cells below the surface to help smooth the creases and pockets that cause wrinkles and scars. Patients can see results after a single Fraxel treatment and will continue to see softer, smoother, and more eventoned skin over the next 3-6 months. There are several types of Fraxel procedures to meet your specific needs. For most Fraxel Laser procedures, there are few side effects and low downtime. As with all procedures, a consultation with our expert staff will help you decide if Fraxel Laser or another laser treatment is right for you. Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure for saggy eyelids. Eyelid surgery (upper and lower) is a great way to rejuvenate and refresh your appearance. This procedure targets the bulges, bags, and excess skin of the upper and lower eyelids that can make you look tired and droopy-eyed. While saggy eyelids may start as early as our 20’s, eventually, it affects everyone. Happily, no matter what your age, it can be surgically corrected to create a more youthful and vibrant-looking you. At Persons Plastic Surgery, we usually perform upper and lower lid surgery simultaneously. But we can address just upper or lower as needed, or in conjunction with face, neck, or brow lift surgery. What makes eyelid surgery such an excellent ‘quick fix’ procedure is that there is usually only mild discomfort and little downtime. You may see some discoloration, but this will improve after a week or two. And most patients can go back to work in 8 to 10 days. You will look like you, only better. As a Plastic Surgeon, I have a great passion to help my patients look and feel their best. At Persons Plastic Surgery, we take a holistic approach to helping you look and feel happy. We invite you to come in for a consultation. Even a minor procedure can have a major effect on your sense of well-being. Small can be the new big! Persons Plastic Surgery, Inc. is located at 911 Moraga Rd, Suite 205 in Lafayette. To contact me call 925-283-4012 or email drbarb@personsplasticsurgery.com. Advertorial
www.yourmonthlypaper.com SEARCH AND RESCUE
The Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue Team needs volunteer members to respond to missing person incidents, disasters, and other critical incidents. Team members are on call 24/7 year-round. The program provides required training; including wilderness traveling, first aid, map and compass usage, tracking disaster response, and search skills; and may also include special training for canine, equestrian, technical, mountain bike, or other rescue skills. For information and applications, visit www.contracostasar.org or call 925-646-4461.
HAIR CARE PROFESSIONALS AND MASSAGE THERAPISTS NEEDED
Hospice of the East Bay provides care to terminally ill patients and their families in their homes or facilities throughout Contra Costa County. Many of our patients benefit greatly from a haircut or hair set or from the gentle and compassionate touch of a massage therapist. Would you be interested in volunteering a few hours a month to provide comfort to our patients? If so, please call the Volunteer Department at Hospice of the East Bay, (925) 887-5678. (License/Massage Certification Required).
Lic# 1100014354; Bay Area Entertainment
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
PAGE 20 • LAFAYETTE TODAY • APRIL 2017
PREGNANCY MATTERS
WEIGHT GAIN By Dr. Theresa Gipps
A woman’s health during pregnancy is important for her and her baby’s health long after her pregnancy ends. Last time we reviewed guidelines for exercising safely during and after pregnancy. Exercise and diet are key factors in a woman’s weight gain during her pregnancy. About half of American women gain more weight than recommended during pregnancy. Women who are overweight or obese before pregnancy are even more likely to gain excess weight in pregnancy. Twenty percent of women will not gain enough weight during pregnancy. This means only about 30% of women gain the recommended amount during pregnancy. Women who gain more than the recommended amount of weight are not only more likely to have trouble losing their pregnancy weight, but they are at increased risk of gestational diabetes, pregnancy related hypertension, cesarean delivery, and delivery of a large baby. Women who don’t gain enough weight during pregnancy are at risk of delivering a preterm baby or a baby that is small for its age.
HOW MUCH WEIGHT SHOULD I GAIN DURING PREGNANCY?
It is important to know where you are starting from. Calculate your pre-pregnancy BMI (The CDC has an online adult BMI calculator). Women with a normal BMI of 18.5 - 24.9 before pregnancy should aim to gain 1-5 lbs in the first trimester (first 14 weeks) and about 1 pound per week for the duration of the pregnancy. This adds up to a total of 25-35 pounds total during the pregnancy. Underweight women should gain between 28-40 pounds while pregnant, and obese women should gain 11-20 pounds. Note your weight before pregnancy, and keep an eye on it as your pregnancy progresses. It is important to remember that all pregnancies are different. Women with twin pregnancies will need to gain more weight. Women on bedrest or with
activity restrictions may have more of a challenge staying in the recommended range. Women with significant nausea will often have trouble gaining or maintaining weight in the beginning of pregnancy, but are usually able to catch up when nausea improves.
HOW DO I STAY ON TRACK?
Most people know the basics for maintaining a healthy weight. Remember that exercise is typically safe and healthy during pregnancy! Food choices are the second part of the equation: listen to your body - eat when you are hungry! But try to make most of your food choices healthy ones. Carbohydrates are your body’s main source of energy. Choose whole grains, brown or wild rice, and other grains like barley and quinoa. Fats are important for building your baby’s brain. Protein is necessary for building muscle, and minerals like calcium and iron are needed to make bones and blood. Babies born to women with a high fruit intake have improved cognitive development at one year of life. Whole fruits are healthier than juices. If you are struggling with food choices, ask for help. Nutritionists can help with meal planning, and physical trainers can help you plan a safe exercise program. Women with specific dietary needs or restrictions - like allergies, diabetes, or gastric bypass - may especially benefit from consulting with a nutritionist.
GETTING BACK TO YOUR PRE-PREGNANCY WEIGHT
The best way to lose your pregnancy weight is by eating healthy and getting active. Most new moms get back to their pre-pregnancy weight by about six months after delivery, but every woman is different. Many factors will affect your weight loss - including the amount of weight gained during pregnancy, pregnancy complications, and breastfeeding. Women who breastfeed are more likely to lose their pregnancy weight faster than women who do not. Your progress will vary from week to week. Be patient - weight loss takes time. Remember, the healthy habits you develop now will improve your health and your family’s health for years to come. Dr Gripps practices at Leach OBGYN. For questions and information call 925-935-6952, email leachobgyn@gmail.com, or visit their NEW website www. leachobgyn.com for articles and other important health education information. Advertorial The office is located at 110 Tampico, Suite 210 in Walnut Creek.
CENTER CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE
SCWW launched nationally, reaching callers from twenty-six states across the country. Amber Carroll, Director of SCWW said, “Our goal is to provide our participants with the same level of quality and care that the first six participants were provided in 2004. We have averaged a 23% growth each year. As we grow, it’s important that we evolve in ways that support that growth.” She added, “The fundamental mission of SCWW is to connect and engage our community of seniors. Every decision we make holds that mission at its core. Although we ultimately hope to engage EVERY interested senior across the country, including those who speak languages other than English, our growth trajectory has been cautiously deliberate.” The staff at SCWW is small yet very committed. Ms. Wade commented, “It’s such a joy to have a front row seat to watch Senior Center Without Walls grow and to hear of new relationships forming, and the strengthening of old ones, and to know that older adults have a voice in this community. Honestly, it feels like I’ve been given a gift, the opportunity to be a part of this community, this instrument that connects older adults to their peers. It doesn’t feel like I’m helping older adults. Instead I get to be a part of this exciting movement towards a greater connection. The program is truly ‘by the people, for the people.’ Our participants and volunteers create the ideas for most of the activities and all the activities are facilitated by volunteers; there are many amazing people making his community the place to be!”
HOW DOES THE CENTER WITHOUT WALLS WORK?
All the groups are accessible from the comfort of home. You can join all groups using a telephone, and a number of the groups can also be accessed using a computer or tablet. After you register you will be provided with the information you need to access any of the over 70 groups each week.
WHO CAN PARTICIPATE?
Senior Center Without Walls is available to adults aged 60 and over who are interested in lifelong learning, support, fun, and engagement with a larger community.
HOW DO I REGISTER:
Register by phone or download the registration form and send via email or snail mail. Call 877-797-7299, email scww@jtm-esc.org, or snail mail 881 Turk Street, San Francisco, CA. 94102.
SCWW staff photo, from left to right: Amber Carroll, Director, Patt Schroeder, Program Specialist, Jeff Cheung, Administrative Coordinator, Katie Wade, Program Manager
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
Senior Center Without Wall is FREE. They use a toll-free number for the activities, so if you are using a regular land line telephone, there will be no charges on your phone bill. If you use a cell phone, check with your provider about possible charges. Sessions run for thirteen weeks. Some of the programs are Perfecting your French, Best Buy at the Grocery store or Pharmacy, Birds, Pet Tales, Open Mic, Cultural Literacy Meltdown, Grief Support, Home Town Tours, and many more. Senior Center Without Walls is always looking for new ideas for classes. If you have an inspiration for a new program or would like to volunteer as a facilitator, give them a call. Currently they are looking for volunteer facilitators with interests in history, sports, arts or religion. Call 877-797-7299 for more information.
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
CAN A VIRUS CAUSE CANCER?
By Arash Mohebati, MD
The term “head and neck cancer” refers to a variety of tumors that occur in the mouth, throat, larynx (voice box), nose, and sinuses. Thyroid cancer usually belongs to a separate category of head and neck cancer and is treated differently. Excluding thyroid cancer, Head and neck cancers account for approximately 3% of all cancers in the United States and are nearly twice as common among men as they are among women. Alcohol and tobacco use (including smokeless tobacco, sometimes called “chewing tobacco” or “snuff”) are historically the two most important causes of head and neck cancers. Treatment of head and neck cancer is dependent on the site where the tumor arises from. For instance, the recommended treatment of tumors that originate in the mouth is different than those arising in the larynx. Certain viruses have been known to play a significant role in the development of cancer for some time. Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is known as a cause of cervical, vaginal, and vulvar cancers in women; penile cancer in men; anal cancer, genital warts, and throat warts in both men and women. Epstein Barr Virus (EBV) is associated with nasopharyngeal carcinoma that is more common in southeast Asia. Over the past decade, we have been learning about the significance of HPV as a cause of head and neck cancer. HPV infection is a well-known cause of cervical cancer in women, and it is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the world according to the National Cancer Institute. Nearly 80 million Americans are infected with HPV according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. The same types of HPV that infect the genital areas can infect the mouth and throat. HPV infections often resolve before they cause any health problems. More than 15,000 HPV associated head and neck cancers are diagnosed annually. These cancers usually occur in the oropharyngeal region – mainly in the tonsils or the base of tongue. The incidence of HPV associated head and neck cancer has been rapidly rising since the 1990’s, while tobacco related cancers are declining. The incidence of HPV associated head and neck cancer will soon surpass the number of HPV related cervical cancer cases diagnosed per year in the United States. Historically, head and neck cancers occurred in heavy smokers and drinkers and most frequently in the 5th through the 7th decade of life. HPV associated oropharyngeal cancers present in younger individuals, more often in white males, and often in non-smokers. HPV positive cancer often presents at a higher stage with metastatic lymph nodes in the neck, but this type of cancer is usually more responsive to treatment with better overall survival. The most widely used treatment regimen for the management of oropharyngeal cancers has been the combination of chemotherapy and radiation. Interest in surgical resection has been increasing use of new technology that will allow for removal of the tumor with lower complication and with good outcome. There are new trials in progress aiming to identify the optimal treatment modality with least amount of toxicity for HPV associated cancers without compromising the outcomes. Based on the current national cancer institute guidelines, recommendations for management of HPV associated and non-HPV cancers are similar. At this time, there are no reliable screening methods for HPV associated head and neck cancer. The only preventive method available is vaccination prior to becoming sexually active. The new HPV vaccines -- recommended for both boys and girls age 9 to 12 -- have been shown to protect against cervical, vaginal, and vulvar cancers. The recommendations for vaccination to protect against head and neck cancer is extrapolated from this data, and further research is underway. Animal tests suggest that an HPV vaccine would be preventative, and all approved vaccines are active against HPV strains 16 and 18, the subtypes of the virus that cause more than 95% of head and neck cancers. Community adoption of the HPV vaccine in the United States remains lower than expected. One national survey suggests that less than half the girls and one third of boys receive the full recommended doses of vaccine. Decreasing the incidence of infection for now remains the only way of preventing future cancer development.
Join Dr. Mohebati and other medical experts on April 24 for a Head and Neck Cancer Seminar at the Walnut Creek Library. 6:30-8:30pm. Reservations are recommended, please call 925-677-5041 x272.
Dr. Arash Mohebati is a board certified general surgeon who completed additional fellowship training in head and neck oncologic surgery at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. He practices with West Coast Surgical Associates -- offices in Walnut Creek, San Ramon, and Concord. Dr. Mohebati is offering visual oral cavity screenings on April 13 & 20 in recognition of Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month. Call 925- 933-0984 to schedule your free screening appointment. Advertorial
APRIL 2017 • LAFAYETTE TODAY • PAGE 21
UNDERSTANDING ANEMIA
By Susan Kao, MD
Anemia in the older adult can be a challenging diagnosis to treat as up to 20-30% of patients may have unexplained anemia even after a thorough workup, and a good proportion of patients have multiple causes for their anemia. It’s important to address the cause of the anemia, and in many cases it’s also important to correct the anemia that can potentially cause a decline in one’s physical and mental functioning. Studies have shown an association between increased falls and frailty, and decreased attention span and executive function with even mild anemia. When we do a workup for anemia, our initial goal is to find an etiology that we can correct. We first rule out nutritional deficiencies such as iron, folate, or B12 deficiency. These account for about one-third of anemia in older adults. Another one-third of anemia is due to either chronic kidney disease or other chronic or inflammatory disorders such as diabetes, autoimmune disorders, acute or chronic infections, or underlying cancer. Some patients with otherwise unexplained anemia can have a primary bone marrow disorder called myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), which requires a bone marrow biopsy to diagnose. Less common causes are hypogonadism, hypothyroidism, hemolytic anemia, and other bone marrow disorders and defects in bone marrow function. If iron deficiency has been identified as the cause of the anemia, then it’s important to look for a site of blood loss, which usually involves evaluating the gastrointestinal tract with upper and lower endoscopies. This can identify not only malignant lesions but also benign lesions like ulcers, polyps, diverticuli, hemorrhoids, and vascular malformations. If there is no clear site of blood loss, then we may look for reasons for poor absorption of iron, such as poor dietary intake or poor absorption of iron due to celiac disease. If an underlying cause for the anemia is found, then we can hopefully correct the problem. However, even if we cannot find the cause, we can still treat the anemia and potentially improve the patient’s symptoms. We can give red blood cell transfusions, which carries some risks but can be of benefit especially in those with underlying cardiac disease. Or we can potentially use injectable medications that stimulate the bone marrow to make more red blood cells. Part of the Hippocratic Oath I took when I became a doctor was to not just treat the disease but to care for the sick person. This includes palliation of symptoms and doing no harm. I hope to be a guide and a partner with my patients on their medical journey. Dr. Kao is board certified in Internal Medicine, Hematology and Medical Oncology and practices with Diablo Valley Oncology & Hematology Medical Group. Dr. Kao is accepting new patients at offices in Pleasant Hill and Rossmoor/Walnut Creek. To contact Dr. Kao, please call (925) 677-5041. Advertorial
TM
DONATE YOUR CAR!
Cars • Trucks • Vans • Boats • Real Estate Live Operators on hand 7 days a week Tax deduction • All transfer documents handled Free pick-up • Running or not in most cases
888-694-5250
www.thefallenheroes.org
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
PAGE 22 • LAFAYETTE TODAY • APRIL 2017
EVENTS FOR LAFAYETTE SENIORS
All classes are held at the Lafayette Senior Center (LSC), located at 500 Saint Mary’s Rd in Lafayette, unless otherwise noted. Space is limited. Please call (925) 284-5050 to reserve a spot. Unless otherwise mentioned, events are free for members and $10 for non-members. Friday Connections at the Lafayette Library Every Friday • 1PM – 3PM • Lafayette Library & Learning Center - Join the gathering at the Lafayette Library for a variety of activities: speakers, games, film screenings, presentations and more. Catch up with old friends or meet new ones over refreshments! Check with library staff or the online calendar (tinyurl.com/ lafcalendar) for each week’s activities and meeting room. For more info, contact Chris Gray at (925) 385-2288 or cgray@ccclib.org. Lunch n’ Learn: Are Your Legal Documents in Order? Wednesday 5/10 • 10:30AM – noon • Cedar Room, LSC - Are you aware of the basic documents you should have in place? StefanieWest, Estate Planning Attorney will cover the essential forms: Living Trust, Will, Health Care Directive, Financial Power of Attorney, beneficiary forms, personal items distribution list and POLST. There will be plenty of time to answer your questions, such as “Why do I need these?,” “What happens if I don’t have them?,” “How do I make sure they work correctly?,” and “Are my old documents valid?” The presentation is offered in conjunction with Lamorinda Village. Lunches are generously provided by Carlton Senior Living of Pleasant Hill. RSVP required by Wednesday, May 3 to Seniors@LoveLafayette. org or 925-284-5050 Let’s Do Lunch! 1st Tuesday monthly • 11:30AM - Discover and explore the various dining experiences in the Lamorinda area. Relax, dine, meet new people, socialize, and enjoy lively conversation! Space is limited. Contact Lafayette Senior Services for the schedule of restaurants and to make your reservations: Seniors@LoveLafayette.org or 284-5050. Individuals will pay for their own lunches; the restaurants will provide separate checks. This interest group is offered in conjunction with Lamorinda Village. Android Basics 3rd Thursday monthly • 10:30AM – noon • Elderberry Room, LSC - Designed for owners of non-Apple mobile devices that use Google’s Android operating system, this series will explore the wide range of functions including texting, calendar, email, music, photos, and more. Learn how to download and use free apps from the Google Play store (bring your Google Play account log-in information). There will be time for individuals’ questions at the end of each class. Please note: this series deals with non-Apple devices. Apple Basics 1st Thursday monthly • 10:30AM – noon • Elderberry Room, LSC - This ongoing series covers many topics such as Apple IDs, iTunes, iCloud, and the basics of iPad and iPhone usage. Topics for upcoming sessions are based on participants’ input and needs. There is always time for Q&A at the end of each class. Please note: this series deals with Apple devices only. Lamorinda Dance Social Wednesdays • 1 – 3:30PM • Live Oak Room, LSC - Enjoy afternoon dancing every Wednesday, and learn some great new dance moves. On the first Wednesday monthly, professional dancers Karen and Michael will provide a dance lesson and live DJ services, playing your favorites and taking requests. Reservoir Walking Group Tuesdays, Thursdays, & Saturdays • 9:30AM – 11:00AM • Meet at reservoir at 9:20AM at the center bench on the dam Come for camaraderie, fresh air and enjoyable exercise, all in magnificent surroundings. Optional bonus: at the end of the walk, Jim will lead you through easy yoga poses and breathing exercises in the most beautiful outdoor yoga studio: the band stage overlooking the water. Increase your balance and fitness – both physical and mental – and leave each week uplifted and radiant with that overall feeling of well-being! Jim is an author, nutritional expert, former Air Force pilot, and consultant to the U.S. Olympic Ski Team and Mt. Everest expeditions. Please call 284-5050 or email seniors@lovelafayette.org to add your name to the email list. Bring quarters or credit card for the parking meter. Annual senior (62+) parking passes may be purchased at the reservoir Visitor Center. Free Free Peer Counseling 2nd Tuesday monthly • 10AM - noon • Alder Room, LSC - Contra Costa Health Services offers free one-on-one counseling with senior (55+) counselors who use their life experiences to help other older adults cope with life changes, problems, crises, and challenges. Confidentiality is strictly observed. Appointment required. Please call Lafayette Senior Services to sign up for one of the 60-minute appointments. Lamorinda Nature Walk and Bird-Watching Wednesdays • 9AM - noon • Alder Room, LSC - Experience nature at its finest along our local trails. Delight in the beauty that unfolds around each bend, all the while learning to identify a
variety of birds. Bring a water bottle; binoculars will be helpful if you have them. Join us every Wednesday or whenever you are able. For more information or to place your name on the route email/phone list, call Lafayette Seniors Services. Drop-In Mah Jongg! (Intermediate Level) Tuesdays • 12:30-3:30PM • Cedar Room, LSC - Bring your card and mah jongg set, and join us every Tuesday afternoon for intermediate level play. Positive Living Forum (“Happiness Club”) 2nd Thursday monthly • 10:30AM – noon • Elderberry Room, LSC - Brighten your day and take part in this interactive gathering which features discussions on a wide range of topics that guide participants toward a more ideal and positive life experience. Drop-ins welcome! Anne Randolph Physical Therapy Presentation: Fall Prevention 4/26 • 11:30AM – 12:30PM • Cedar Room, LSC - Falls are a threat to health and independence. Learn how to gain better balance, avoid falls, and remain self-sufficient. Hearing Screening 1st Wednesday monthly • 1PM – 2:20PM • Alder Room, LSC - Minimum of two sign-ups required in order for hearing screenings to take place. To reserve one of the 20-minute appointments, contact Lafayette Senior Services. Smart Driver 8 Hour Course 4/11 & 4/13 • 9AM – 1PM • Elderberry Room, LSC - Refine your driving skills, develop safe and defensive techniques, and possibly lower your insurance premium. Max: 25 paid registrants. To reserve your spot, send a check, made payable to AARP, to Lafayette Senior Services, 500 St. Mary’s Rd., Lafayette, CA 94549. $15 AARP Members • $20 Non-Members of AARP.
The “Good Old Days” are now!
Rates are better than 50-60 years ago (see proof above)
The Alison Company Nationwide Financing on Commercial Property Douglas Scott DRE#00859191 | Kevin Corstorphine DRE#01944908
805.845.5200
Dscott@alisonmortgage.com | Kevin@alisonmortgage.com
www.alisonmortgage.com
SHARE YOUR COLORS
Crayons belong in children’s hands, not landfills. The Crayon Initiative is excited to share with you a chance to help brighten the day for thousands of kids in America’s hospitals and keep waxy sludge out of landfills. The inaugural #ShareYourColors fundraising campaign kicks off in April. This nationwide effort will unite the community in a mission to raise awareness for The Crayon Initiative. In the spirit of Earth Day, individuals and businesses alike will join forces in a collective effort to help keep crayons out of our landfills and in the hands of hospitalized children. As a community, if we each do our part, we can reach our fundraising goal of $250,000. How? There are a variety of ways for corporate partners and individuals to participate in the #ShareYourColors campaign. Below are some of our current corporate partners have donated in the past: • Realtors: Donate a percentage or flat dollar amount from each closing • Car Dealers: Give a percentage or flat dollar amount from each car sale • Offices: Collect $1 - $5 employee donations, match employee funds • Retail & Restaurants: Donate a percentage of sales on a given day(s) These are just a few of the many ways you can support TCI during our April #ShareYourColors campaign. Visit www.shareyourcolors.org to see more ways for you to get involved. To learn more about The Crayon Initiative visit http://thecrayoninitiative.org/.
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
APRIL 2017 • LAFAYETTE TODAY • PAGE 23
A NEW MINI-VAN FOR YOU…AND OTHER NEWS
By Mary Bruns, Lamorinda Senior Transportation
The Lamorinda Spirit Van Program is delighted to announce that on March 29th we received the latest addition to our fleet – a brand new mini-van. The new van allows us to let go of our last County Connection donated vehicle which has 259,710 miles on the odometer. We now have four relatively new wheelchair and walker accessible vehicles: two mini-vans, one nine-passenger vehicle, and one 12-passenger vehicle – all paid for through the 5310 Federal Grant Program. This is exciting news because we know that the mini-vans provide a more comfortable ride for our passengers. If you are 60+, schedule a ride to an appointment or grocery shopping to try us out. You will love our very helpful drivers! Maybe you know someone who will even decide to become a driver for the program.
FUNDING SENIOR TRANSPORTATION
Since Measure X didn’t pass, the Senior Mobility Action Council (SMAC) has been looking for ways to be supportive to Contra Costa County’s efforts to determine how to proceed to meet transportation funding needs. Every city council in Contra Costa supported this measure, so the question on everyone’s minds in the transportation field is, “Now what?” This topic is important to the older adult and disability communities since money from this measure was ear-marked for accessible transportation.
TRANSPORTATION FOCUS GROUP
By the time you receive the May issue of Lafayette Today, we will have the results of a Transportation Focus Group held on April 10 through a phone conference via Senior Center Without Walls (SCWW). Call 877-797-7299 to sign up for a next phone conference call. Or email mbruns@lovelafayette.org to let us know about your transportation challenges, needs, and solutions you have found. SMAC and SCWW plan to gather input from our communities to inform program development, policy, and plan public education events about transportation services and gaps/remaining needs for the aging and disability communities. Your voice is needed! “Aging is an art that has its own beauty. Eleanor Erskine and the new mini-van. It is an ideal opportunity to do inner work. And you can be a little more eccentric.” ~ Ram Dass.
THE TRANSITION GENERATION
In many ways we are the Transition Generation – between the old way of looking at things and the new way. We have become more aware of climate change and protecting the environment. We are working towards accepting all people as of equal importance: men, women, children, people of diverse races, cultures, and people with different sexual preferences than our own. We have done a good job of making children’s needs important. Women are working on breaking through the glass ceiling. More men are participating in childcare. Now we are remembering that our aging population is equal too. Since people age 85 to 100 are the fastest growing population, becoming substantially larger than before, we have the opportunity to make sure services are in place to help each one of us as we age. Your voice is important and needed. As Robert Frost in his book Stopping by the Woods on a Snowy Evening says, “The woods are lovely, dark and deep. But I have promises to keep. And miles to go before I sleep. And miles to go before I sleep.”
A TRIP TO THE TOWN HALL THEATRE TO SEE AN IDEAL HUSBAND BY OSCAR WILDE.
Join us on Sunday, June 11th or 18th at 2PM to see An Ideal Husband at the Town Hall Theatre. Reserve your space by June 1 by calling the Box Office at (925) 283-1557 and saying, “I would like to reserve # of tickets for the Lamorinda Spirit Van Group.” Phone hours are Tuesday – Friday, 4PM - 6PM, and Saturday, 2PM - 4PM.
Lamorinda Senior Transportation An Alliance of Transportation Providers
Volunteer Drivers – Needed, Valued, and Appreciated We will accommodate your schedule. Call one of the programs below to volunteer.
Lamorinda Spirit Van
925-283-3534
Takes Lamorinda older adults, age 60 and up, to errands, appointments, shopping, classes, and to lunch at the C.C. Café. Wheelchair and walker accessible. WE LOVE TO SAY YES, so call early to make your reservation. ‘LIKE” us at www.facebook.com/lamorindaspiritvan.
Contra Costa Yellow Cab and DeSoto Company 925-284-1234 10% discount for Lamorinda seniors.
Orinda Seniors Around Town
925-402-4506
Mobility Matters Rides for Seniors
925-284-6161
Volunteer drivers serving Orinda seniors with free rides to appointments and errands.
Volunteer drivers serving Contra Costa seniors with free rides to doctors’ appointments during the week. Grocery shopping on Saturdays.
County Connection LINK Reservation Line 925-938-7433 For people with disabilities. (Older adults often have “age-based” disabilities.)
Mobility Matters Information and Referral Line 925-284-6109 Gogograndparent.com 855-464-6872 A way to use UBER or LYFT without an iPhone. Press “0” to speak to an operator.
C L A S S I F I E D S AUTOS WANTED
We will buy or consign your car. All cars displayed in our private and secure showroom. We are a locally family owned dealership serving the Lamorinda and San Ramon Valley for over 30 years in a very relaxed atmosphere. Free pick-up and delivery. 925-820-1188
COMPUTER HELP
ITkid Computer Help with any tech related issue for a low price. Computer Set-up & Repair •Email •Wifi •Smartphone •Home Theater - $40/hr. Contact Max Nunan, (925) 482-5488, maxnunan@gmail.com, www.itkid.co.
ARCHITECT
JOHN ROLF HATTAM - ARCHITECT Specializes in modest budget, new and renovated residences. Over 200 completed projects. Brochures available for all of our professional services •RESIDENTIAL RENOVATION •NEW RESIDENCES •CHURCHES •COMMERCIAL •MULTI-FAMILY. For the brochure meeting your need call 510-841-5933.
Lafayette Today Classifieds
Reach over 12,000 homes and businesses in Lafayette - Help Wanted, For Sale, Services, Lessons, Pets, Rentals, Wanted, Freebies... $35 for up to 45 words. $5 for each additional 15 words. Send or email submissions to: 3000F Danville Blvd #117, Alamo, CA 94507 or editor@yourmonthlypaper.com.Run the same classified ad in our sister papers “Alamo Today” or “Danville Today News” and pay half off for your second and/or third ad! Payment by check made out to “The Editors” must be received before ad will print. Your canceled check is your receipt. We reserve the right to reject any ad.
PAGE 24 • LAFAYETTE TODAY • APRIL 2017
www.yourmonthlypaper.com