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Alamo • Danville • Blackhawk • Diablo • San Ramon

VOL 17, NO 6 June 2012 SEVENTY-FIVE CENTSalways for the community valleysentinel.com SENTINELTHE ALLEYVSPOTLIGHT

See RATTLESNAKESpage 7

Find out what’s new in the Valley at

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

This month’s Special Sections:

Health & Wellness pages 8-9

Spring Home & Gardenpages 10-11

On May 15th, stage 3 of the 2012 Amgen Tour of California started in north San Jose and made its way to Livermore. For the fi rst time in the history of the race, the riders were challenged with a climb up Mt. Diablo, one of the most revered climbs in California. Peter Sagan (SVK) of Liquigas-Cannondale crossed the fi nish line fi rst taking his third stage win of the 2012 race and making Amgen Tour of California history by winning three consecutive stages.(Photo by Scott Hein)

The Northern Pacifi c Rattlesnake (Crotalus oreganus oreganus) is the only rattlesnake found in the San Francisco Bay Area. It is a venomous pitviper species that is found in the western United States from British Columbia to northwestern Mexico. Like other reptiles, their metabolism and activity patterns are governed by the ambient, surrounding temperature. In the East Bay, they usually emerge from their retreats with the warm weather starting in April, and are most active from May through July. Rattlesnakes remain active, both day and night, until the return of the rainy season and colder weather in October. The color pattern is quite varied, however locally most individuals have a dark gray to olive brown base color, highlighted with black, white and pale yellow, and overlaid dorsally on the back with a series of large dark blotches. A series of light and dark rings precedes the rattles on the tail. The large,

Hikers Beware as rattlesnakes are awake with warm weatherBy James M. Hale

Photo by James Hale

triangular head, rattles, loreal heat sensitive pits on the snout and keeled scales that are overlaid like shingles on a roof are key diagnostic characteristics. The young are born with a button at the tip of the tail. Every time they shed their skin as they mature, they acquire a new rattle. During good years they may shed several times. Adults may reach 64 inches in length. Rattlesnakes are often confused with gopher snakes, which mimic rattlesnakes by hissing loudly and rattling their tails. Gopher snakes are brownish in color and lack the triangular head and rattles.

Rattlesnakes frequent a wide variety of habitats from grasslands to woodlands where they pursue small mammals and other animals as prey. They in turn are preyed upon by king snakes, raptors, and wild boars. Rocky outcrops,

stream courses, talus slopes and ledges are favorite haunts. The rattlesnake is a live-bearing species, with one to twenty fi ve young born between August and October. The young are born with fully active venom glands.

Rattlesnakes usually make their presence known by rattling their segmented tails when threatened or to avoid being stepped on. However, some researchers suggest that as humans have encroached in rattler territory, the snakes are using their legendary rattles less frequently.

Rattlesnakes were a signifi cant part of Native American culture. The rattlesnake was the Keeper of the Hereafter, and a symbol of transformation and healing. Locally the Ohlone women wore abalone pendants and necklaces around their necks, Tripne (magic)

against rattlesnakes, which jingle and throw glints of sunlight as they walk. Rattlesnake shamans (Trudum) were prominent among the Yokuts near Altamont and throughout their territory. Such shamans or rattlesnake doctors were medicine men who gained the power to cure and prevent snake bites by cultivating dream communications with the rattlesnakes. The Yokut Rattlesnake Dances and songs

The San Ramon Valley High School Women’s Varsity Swim Team captured the 2012 California Interscholastic Federation’s North Coast Section (NCS) team title for the second consecutive year after competing May 18th and 19th in Concord.

The title capped a perfect season for the Wolves who won each of their dual meets, swim invitational meets and the EBAL Championship meet. This is the 3rd NCS title for seniors Allison Brown, Marissa Brown, Captain Shannon Herman, and Marissa Neel. Congratulations to the entire SRVHS team, their coach, Heather Johnston, and to the Wolves’ NCS team: Jenny Barcellona, Allison Brown, Marissa Brown, Jackie Doyle, Nicole Eklund, Ana Henderson, Shannon Herman, Paige Matherson, Amanda Miller, Marissa Neel, Dani Orlandi, Heidi Poppe, Kristen Schumann, Marina Smith, and Cailey Steffens.

Lady Wolves win NCS title

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

June 2012

topping hits, this is inspired lunacy at its most buoyant and hilarious. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. Tickets/information: 925-943-7469 or lesherartscenter.org.

Night at the ImprovJune 9

8pm. An in te rac t ive evening of improvisational comedy. (Not suitable for children under the age of 18.) $10 Tickets can be purchased online or at the door. Front Row Theater, 17011 Bollinger Canyon Road, San Ramon. Tickets/information: 925-973-3350 or sanramon.ca.gov

Contra Costa Suzuki Strings Sharing the Joy ConcertJune 7

6:30-8pm. Spring 2012 Share the Joy Concert includes traditional Suzuki repertoire,

“Colorscapes” ExhibitNow-June 15

The Town of Danville’s Village Theatre Art Gallery presents Colorscapes, featuring an array of paintings by seven contemporary artists. Colorscapes is an exhibition that celebrates paint, color and the landscape. Village Theatre Art Gallery, 233 Fron t S t re e t , Danv i l l e . Information: 925-314-3400 or villagetheatreartgallery.com.

XanaduNow-June 23

A young artist is trying to paint his enduring masterpiece (in chalk) on the boardwalk of Venice Beach and before you can say “roller disco!” his Muse appears in the form of Olivia Newton-John. Based on the legendary cult film and packed with chart-

200 Fine Art & Contemporary Craft Displays • Italian Street Painting • EntertainmentProspect Merchant Activities • Gourmet Food • Fine Wines & Microbrews

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

2012

Danville Fine Arts FaireJune 16 & 17 • 10am - 5pm • Hartz Avenue

200 Fine Art & Contemporary Craft Displays • Italian Street Painting • EntertainmentProspect Merchant Activities • Gourmet Food • Fine Wines & Microbrews

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

fiddle music from Greece, Ireland and America, a medley from “The Wizard of Oz”, and Beatles favorites “Eleanor

Rigby” and “In My Life”. F o u r t e e n s t u d e n t s , ages 7-16, w i l l b e performing as a group and smaller ensembles.

Wa lnu t C re ek L i b ra r y, 1644 N. Broadway, Walnut Creek. Registration required. Registration/information: ccclib.org.

Moonlight MovieJune 8, 22

8:30-10:30pm. Looking for a little fun Friday nights? Bring the gang down to the Town Green for some fresh air and a great flick. Danville’s Moonlight Movies offer family-friendly films in a picturesque outdoor setting under the stars. Don’t forget your lawn chairs, blankets, and snacks to make it complete. Free. Danville Library Town Green, 420 Front Street, Danville. Information: 925-314-3400 or danville.ca.gov.

Benicia Art WalkJune 9

3-7pm. Every second Saturday of the month for

the rest of the year. Come for a self-guided tour of downtown Benicia’s galleries and businesses exhibiting and selling art. Historic First Street, Downtown Benicia. Information: BeniciaArtWalk@gmail.com or facebook.com/BeniciaArtWalk.

Danville Girls Chorus’ Music through the Decades

June 911am. Join the Danville

Girls Chorus for their final concert of the 2011-2012 season with a musical journey through the last hundred years of popular music. Tickets: $5-15. East Bay Fellowship Church, 2615 Camino Tassajara Road, Danville. Tickets/information: 925-837-2624.

Ol’ Blue Eyes Is Back: A Modern Swingin’ Salute to Frank Sinatra

June 10Experience the magic,

romance and excitement of the music of Frank Sinatra in this special one-performance only-celebration. Las Vegas-style entertainer Jonathan Poretz delivers with pizazz and style backed by a smokin’ hot jazz ensemble. This show f e a t u r e s a l l t h e great hits o f Frank Sinatra and a s a l u t e t o t h e legendary singers of Las Vegas with select interpretations from the Great American Songbook. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. Tickets/information: 925-943-7469 or lesherartscenter.org.

Virtuoso Al FrescoJune 10

4-7pm. The California Symphony presents Virtuoso Al Fresco - food, wine, music - the 13th Annual Food and Wine Classic. Come and taste Napa’s finest wines and enjoy local fare by Lafayette Park Hotel & Spa, Cypress, and Lark Creek Walnut Creek. Lafayette Park Hotel, 3287 Mount Diablo Blvd., Lafayette. Tickets/information: californiasymphony.org.

American IdiotJune 12-July 8

Direct from Broadway, the smash-hit musical tells the story of three lifelong friends, forced to choose between their dreams and the safety of suburbia.

Their quest for meaning in a post 9-11 world leads them on an exhilarating journey. Through incredible spectacle, thrilling performances and with the hope embodied by a new generation, this musical ignited Broadway with a dynamic jolt when it opened. Based on Green Day’s Grammy Award-winning multi-platinum album. Orpheum Theatre, 1192 Market Street, San Francisco. Tickets/information: 888-746-1799 or shnsf.com.

Cardburg 2012: The Super Track exhibit

June 14-August 12Cardboard Institute of

Technology is a team of artists who use recycled cardboard to create enormous site-specific installations. This summer, CIT will transform the Bedford Gallery into a miniature speedway for racing high speed remote controlled art cars, as well as a low-powered interactive micro radio station. Reception June 14, 6-8pm. Bedford Gallery, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: 925-295-1417 or bedfordgallery.org.

Sculpture in the GardenJune 15-July 14

10am-4pm. The Ruth Bancroft Garden presents the 18th Annual Sculpture In the Garden. The Annual Sculpture in the Garden is a one-of-a-kind art event in the East Bay. The Ruth Bancroft Garden’s famous collection of rare and beautiful succulents features sculpture by artists from all over the West Coast. The Ruth Bancroft Gardens, 1552 Bancroft Road, Walnut Creek. Information: ruthbancroftgarden.org.

Danville Fine Arts FaireJune 16-17

10am-6pm. Come for fun, food, and entertainment for the whole family. More than 200 artists will display their

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

June 2012wares while others demonstrate their talents right before your eyes. Culinary Arts Corner, Beverage Garden, and live music. Downtown Danville, Hartz and Prospect Avenues. Information: 925-837-4400 or danville.ca.gov.

Opera in the ParkJune 24

5-7pm. Bring a blanket and enjoy a family-friendly outing as opera stars, young artists and the

spirited Festival Opera Chorus perform some of the world’s fi nest music. Featured artists include local favorites: soprano Kristin Clayton and baritone Zachary Gordin. Principal conductor Bryan Nies will conduct. Don’t miss this popular evening of relaxed musical entertainment with special children’s activities, too. Free. Civic Park, Civic Drive at Broadway, Walnut Creek. Information: festivalopera.org.

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The Danville Fine Arts Faire is a showcase for the highest caliber of work from artists all over the western U.S. As the days lengthen and weather warms, more than 200 talented artists gather for the weekend Arts Faire from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. June 16 and 17.

One-of-a-kind, sculpture, glass, painting, jewelry, ceramics, photography and more will be displayed along Hartz Avenue in the 21st anniversary event hosted by the Danville Area Chamber of Commerce and the Town of Danville.

In addition to the fi ne art on display, artists will also be in action at the Italian Street Painting experience on Prospect Avenue, presented by Diablo Magazine. Artists will create masterpieces in 12ft. x 12ft. squares with chalk on pavement, with this year’s theme focusing on food. Fair-goers can watch the foodscapes come alive during the weekend.

Also in a whirligig of activity, metal sculptors Phillip and Chad Glashoff will create a bicycle sculpture on Hartz Avenue as inspiration near the guarded bike parking provided by the SRVHS Wolf Foundation.

Top artists draw together for Danville Fine Arts Faire June 16-17

As art lovers explore the fair, a variety of entertainment will be provided. Folk-rock guitarist Brian Bergeron will enjoy his first time at the fair and Vic Moraga and Jeffrey Michael will return for Latin-infused and contemporary melodies. Children will enjoy a trackless train, face painting and other activities. Also along Prospect Avenue, local merchants will contribute to the weekend with their own ongoing activities.

The Danville Area Chamber of Commerce will host the Beverage Garden with fi ne wines and microbrews, and an array of gourmet food will be offered throughout the event.

Shelby McNamara, president of the Danville Area Chamber of Commerce, loves the excellence of the work on display. “The art is the highest in quality in a wide range of media and styles,” she says, “and there is something for everyone at the fair. Come spend the day in Danville shopping, dining and people watching.”

Admission and parking are free with guarded bike parking located on Hartz Avenue between School Street and Hartz Way. For more information visit www.mlaproductions.com or call 925-837-4400.

The twenty-four members of the 2012 class of Leadership San Ramon Valley will be honored on Thursday, June 7th, in ceremonies which culminate the ten-month Leadership program designed to give participants an historical perspective and in-depth look at the issues facing their community and to sharpen their leadership and management skills as well.

Completing the Leadership program in June will be corporate managers, fi re fi ghters, business owners, realtors, civic employees and community volunteers who have attended ten monthly day-long sessions since September discussing a variety of topics germane to the dynamics of the San Ramon Valley, such as education, the economy, local and state government, regional planning, community economics and cultural arts. Speakers and panel members for these sessions have included current elected officials and experts in their fi elds of study. More than a classroom situation, however, the program also assigns fi eldwork, which brings the participants one-on-one with the activities and issues within our community.

As part of the program’s cu r r i cu l um, e a ch yea r Leadership participants create a class project designed to enhance some aspect of the community. The Class of 2012 will be preparing a PSA video(s) on the topic of prescription drug abuse in an effort to support April Rovero’s cause. The video will include addressing pharm parties and the danger of mixing prescription drugs with alcohol. The class will be involved with the local high schools during red ribbon week to introduce

Leadership San Ramon Valley Newsthe video. Prior to fi nals at the start of summer and during red ribbon week, the Class of 2012 will utilize PTA and student groups to make the PSA viral through Facebook and other social media technology. They will continue to stay involved in red ribbon week and during spring fi nals, working with the

PTA and student groups to get the video out via social media technology.

Leadership offers a unique opportunity for its participants to interact with our educators, corporate executives and public offi cials and to bring back to their

See LEADERSHIPpage 9

By Claudette Mannina

By StaffWriter

page 4 The Valley SenTinel May 2012 valleysentinel.com

The Lindsay Wildlife Museum in Walnut Creek recent ly opened a new exhibit in the lower gallery that showcases the East Bay Regional Park District, with a map and photos and information on wildlife, nature, and recreational activities.

The exhibit includes over 30 full color panels that showcase the wild inhabitants of the regional parks, as well as the history of the park district, and the international Healthy Parks Healthy People movement. Inspiration for the installation came, in part, from the April release in Las Trampas Regional Wilderness of a golden eagle rehabilitated by the Lindsay Wildl i fe Museum hospital. That event is illustrated on one panel.

Lindsay Wildlife Museum, Fire Season, and Your Regional ParksBy Beverly Lane, East Bay Regional Park District Board of Directors

You can see the EBRPD display now through Labor Day weekend, September 3. For location and hours of operation, visit their web site at http://wildlife-museum.org.

As we know, devastating wildfires threaten California every year. To ensure that Californians are ready, Governor Brown declared May 6-12, 2012 as “Wildfire Awareness Week.” On May 8, at Lake Temescal Regional Park, CAL FIRE and local fire chiefs reminded residents of the dangers from wildfires and the simple steps they can take to prepare for them.

The East Bay Regional Park District, with over 112,000 acres in Contra Costa and Alameda counties, has a major role in fire prevention and protection of natural and cultural resources.

During fire season, the Park District asks all visitors to use caution when visiting

Advertorial

They can repair your v i s i o n w i t h j u s t o n e treatment and measure the distance from the Earth t o t h e moon w i t h i n a mi l l imeter. They are in supermarket scanners and compact disc players. What are they? Lasers. Theorized by Albert Einstein in 1917 and invented in 1960, lasers have proven to be a versatile high-tech solution to many of life’s problems. Today, more and more people are learning that therapeutic doses of laser light can also relieve pain and expedite healing for a wide range of health complaints.

What is laser therapy for pain relief?

Laser therapy is the application of low levels of laser light to areas of the body that have been injured or damaged. Contrasted with high-powered lasers used in health care that cut tissue, such as surgical or hair-removal lasers, therapy lasers produce beneficial chemical and biological interactions that can help re l ieve pa in and repai r injured/damaged tissue.

Shedding light on Natural Pain ReliefBy Dr. Niele Maimone, DC

How long have lasers been used by health care providers?

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) gave market clearance to the first therapy laser in 2002. Since then, progressive chiropractors, osteopaths, medical doctors and other have been offering laser therapy to their patients in increasing numbers.

How do lasers work?The laser light penetrates

through your skin and is absorbed by special receptors on your body’s cells called ch romophores . Jus t a s photosynthesis creates energy for plants, the absorption of the laser light by your cells causes increased production of cellular energy. In areas of injury or damage, this means there is more energy available to improve the rate and quality of healing. Studies on tissue cultures reveal a wide range of beneficial physiological effects, including increased levels of endorphins, reduced levels of harmful compounds including C-reactive protein and increased rate and quality of tissue healing.

That means relief from acute and chronic pain, reduced inflammation and muscle spasms, improved

range of motion and restored function. Patients suffering from headaches, neck pain, carpal tunnel, low back pain, sports injuries, post-surgical pain and more have been helped with laser therapy.

How long does it take to work?

Some patients notice improvement after the very first treatment session; with others it may take a few treatments. The effect of laser therapy is cumulative, meaning that each successive treatment builds on previous ones.

What does a treatment feel like?

With very low-powered therapy lasers, you feel nothing at all. Higher-powered (Class IV) therapy lasers produce a mild, soothing, warm feeling. Laser therapy is a painless treatment.

Are there any s ide effects?

Some pa t i en t s may experience soreness in the area of treatment, as toxins are released and blood flow is restored. World experts on laser therapy have commented that therapeutic lasers have no undesirable side effects in the hands of a qualified therapist.

For more information about how laser therapy may be helpful to you contact Align Healing Center to set-up a free consultation with Dr. Niele Maimone (925)362-8283. Visit us on the web at AlignHealingCenter.com.

the parks. The Regional Parks Fire Department has signs that explain various degrees of dangerous fire potential. The fire danger may lead to restrictions in the parks.

In late May and early June, the Fire Department has set Level 1 restrictions for the entire district. This means parks are open with the following restrictions in effect:

A. No campfires outside of designated day-use picnic a reas, campgrounds o r developed recreational areas. Barbeques and gas-fueled stoves are permitted.

B. Vehicles are restricted to driving only on designated roadways; no cross-country driving.

C. Increased monitoring and patrol by park staff.

Many days from July through October may be rated “extreme” or “very high.” If the sign or other public notice says the fire danger is “extreme” or “very high”,

please take extra precautions. In some cases, parks may be closed because of fire danger, and everyone should comply to help prevent fires in our beautiful regional parks. More information is online at http://www.ebparks.org/about/fire/signs

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

at the Lindsay Wildlife Museum

A firefighter takes in the view at one of the many East Bay

Regional Parks

valleysentinel.com June 2012 The Valley SenTinel page 5

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Mental health problems like depression and anxiety can affect anyone’s life at any age. If you think you have a mental health condition, Medicare may be able to help.

The symptoms of mental health issues include feelings of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness; a lack of energy; and difficulty concentrating or sleeping. You might find yourself losing interest in activities you used to enjoy, or even having thoughts of ending your life.

If you have any of these symptoms, talk to your doctor or other health care provider.

Medicare’s coverage of mental health includes outpatient and inpatient treatment, as well as prescription drugs.

If you get your Medicare benefits through a Medicare Advantage health plan, check your plan’s membership materials. Or call the plan for details about your Medicare-covered mental health benefits.

If you have Original Medicare, Part A covers inpatient care and Part B covers outpatient care. Part D covers medications you may need.

Medicare and mental healthBy David Sayen

Part A helps pay for mental health services given in a hospital that require you to be admitted as an inpatient. These services can be provided in a general hospital or in a psychiatric hospital that cares exclusively for people with mental health conditions.

How much do you pay? Medicare measures your use of hospital services in benefit periods. A benefit period begins the day you go into a hospital and ends after you’ve had no hospital care for 60 days in a row. If you go into a hospital again after 60 days, a new benefit period begins, and you must pay a new inpatient hospital deductible.

There’s no limit to the number of benefit periods you can have when you get mental health care in a general hospital. You can also have multiple benefit periods when you get care in a psychiatric hospital, but a lifetime limit of 190 days applies to inpatient psychiatric care.

For each benefit period, you pay a $1,156 deductible (in 2012) and no coinsurance for days 1–60. For days 61–90 of each benefit period, your cost would be $289 per day.

Medicare Part B helps cover services by doctors and other

providers if you’re admitted as a hospital inpatient. You pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for these services while you’re an inpatient.

Part B also helps pay for outpatient visits to psychiatrists or other doctors; clinical psychologists, social workers, and nurse specialists; and other professionals. (Make sure your provider accepts Medicare payment before you schedule an appointment.)

Outpatient services are covered by Part B as well. These include psychiatric eva lua t ion ; med ica t ion management; individual and group psychotherapy with doctors or certain other licensed professionals; and family counseling if the main purpose is to help with your treatment.

For outpat ient care, you’ll have to pay the Part B deductible, which is $140 this year. After that, how much you pay depends on whether the purpose of your visit is to diagnose your condition or to get treatment.

When you visit a doctor or other professional diagnostician, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount.

For outpatient treatment such as psychotherapy, you pay 40% of the Medicare-approved amount in 2012.

(Recent legislation reduced these co-insurance amounts to keep them in line with other types of medical services; mental health co-insurance will drop to 35% next year and 20% in 2014.)

Part B also covers “partial hospitalization” in some cases. This is outpatient psychiatric treatment that’s more intense than the care you get in a doctor’s or therapist’s office. It’s provided during the day, usually through hospital outpatient departments and community mental health centers.

Many Medicare Advantage plans cover prescription drugs. If you have Original Medicare, you can join a Part D drug plan.

Medicare drug plans aren’t required to cover all drugs. However, they must cover all or almost all anti-depressant, anticonvulsant, and antipsychotic medications.

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

Tips to Help Prevent Skin Cancerby Dr. Michael Forrest

Advertorial

More than 7,000 Californians wil l be diagnosed with melanoma this year, according to the American Cancer Society. The following are life-saving tips to help prevent this and other skin cancers, the most common form of cancer in the United States.

Melanoma, although the most severe skin cancer, can have a 97% survival rate if caught early. It’s tempting to soak up the sun as it warms, but please, protect your skin first.

There are three items necessary to protect skin from damaging UV rays and thus limit your skin cancer risk. First, sunscreen must be applied correctly and in adequate quantity. The rule for sunblock is 2-30. It takes about two tablespoons of sunblock to cover your entire body and should be applied 30 minutes before going outside. This gives the skin enough time to absorb

the lotion and become effective at blocking UV rays. It should also be reapplied every few hours, after drying off, or after excessive sweating.

Second, hats, sun-protective clothing, and sunglasses are important items to help block the sun. Wide brimmed hats can help shield the nose, ears, shoulders and scalp from burns. It takes only one bad sunburn in childhood to double your chances of developing melanoma later in life. So, protect your children and grandchildren with these same items. Also important is to avoid mid-day sun (10am to 4pm), sun bathing, and tanning salons.

The last item in the arsenal against melanoma is a mirror. It’s crucial to know every mole and freckle on your body. Any change can signify a problem and should be checked by a doctor immediately. Self-exams are recommended more frequently for those who have fair skin, have atypical moles and/or freckles, or have a history of severe burns.

When examining moles, remember A-B-C-D-E:

A is for ASYMMETRY: One half of a mole or birthmark does not match the other.

B is for BORDER: Normal spots have smooth edges. Cancerous spots may have irregular, ragged, notched or blurred edges.

C is for COLOR: The color is not the same throughout and may include shades of brown or black or sometimes patches of red, white or blue.

D is for DIAMETER: Benign moles are about the size of a pencil eraser, 1/4 inch. Anything larger is worrisome.

E is for ELEVATED: Having a spot above skin level is another warning sign.

You don’t have to avoid the sun altogether, but protect yourself with your own arsenal against skin cancer this summer. Taking these precautions will lessen your risk for all types of skin cancer, including melanoma.

Dr. Michael Forrest is a Radiation Oncologist with Epic Care, a group of experts in the diagnosis and comprehensive treatment of cancer and blood disorders. (925) 452-1852 www.epic-care.com

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

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San Ramon Valley High School Monte Vista High School

Dougherty Valley High SchoolCalifornia High School

Danville-Alamo-Walnut Creek branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) has announced seven scholarship winners. Each will receive $2,000

2012 Recipients of the AAUW ScholarshipsReceiving the Jane Trittipo

recognition and an extra $200 for her dedication in the medical field is Caitlin Rugg, a 2006 San Ramon Valley High School graduate and current enrollee

at UCLA’s David Geffen School of Medicine. She received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees at Stanford.

Amanda Fujii will receive a bachelor’s degree in the mechanical engineering program UCLA this year and plans on continuing her study in the master’s program there. She is a member of Tau Beta Pi, national engineering honor society and is a 2008 graduate of Monte Vista High School.

As a Ph.D. candidate in the Human Development Department at UC Davis, Sarah Hartman will be investigating how early family relationships affect development, physiology and psychological outcomes. She is a 2005 graduate of Valley Christian High School in Dublin and a resident of Alamo.

Master of Music in piano

accompaniment is the goal of Danielle DiDonato, who is a senior at San Francisco State University, majoring in music. She has been accepted to study at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland in Glasgow in the fall. She is a 2008 graduate of Carondelet High School in Concord and resides in Alamo.

Erin Delker has a B.A. in psychology from George Washington University and is studying for a master’s at Columbia University. She is a 2007 graduate of San Ramon Valley High School.

Lindsey Reardon earned her bachelor’s degree at Brigham Young University and is now studying for a Master of Science in Nursing at the University of San Francisco, School of Nursing and Health Professions. She is a Danville resident.

After graduating summa cum from San Diego State

University with a B.A. in Speech Language and Hearing Sciences, Paige Branson is studying at the University of Wisconsin in Madison. A member of Phi Beta Kappa, she has worked with children with speech sound disorders. She is a 2007 graduate of Northgate High School, Walnut Creek.

A Toast to Tutoring raises $80,000

A Toast to Tutoring, Buena Vista Auxiliary’s annual fundraiser, was held on Friday, April 20th at Round Hill Country Club in Alamo. It was another great year for the event with over $80,000 in net proceeds going directly back to Buena Vista’s tutorial program.

Over 300 supporters, including local Olympic skater and children’s author Kristi Yamaguchi, enjoyed a festive evening of wine tasting, sit-down dinner and both silent and live auctions. Rod Santos, owner of Wine Thieves, was honored for his continued support of the program. Other prominent members of the community were also in attendance, including members of Assemblywoman Susan Bonilla’s offi ce, Brett Mortensen of B. Allan Jewelers and Rose

Lock, Assistant Superintendent of the Mt. Diablo Unifi ed School District.

Buena Vista Auxiliary, a part of Assistance League® of Diablo Valley, is a nonprofi t volunteer auxiliary that provides an early-intervention literacy program to local elementary school children who read below grade level. Since Buena Vista Auxiliary was established in 1993, it has raised over $1,100,000 which has provided 26,000 hours of tutoring and 10,000 books to participants. The program has helped over 3,300 children improve their reading skills, self-confi dence and self-esteem. For more information, visit diablovalley.AssistanceLeague.org.

Kristi Yamaguchi (Olympic fi gure skater and children’s author) with Maggi Kurimai (Buena Vista Auxiliary member).

valleysentinel.com June 2012 The Valley SenTinel page 7 RATTLESNAKESfrom page 1

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were among the most dramatic events in California.

There are about 8,000 poisonous snake bites a year in the United States. Rattlesnakes and their relatives, copperheads and water moccasins, are responsible for 99% of those bites. No more than 12 deaths were reported each year from 1960 - 1990 as a result of poisonous snake bites. In recent years, up to 30 deaths annually have been reported due to more frequent human and rattlesnake encounters. The best estimate of dogs and cats bitten by poisonous snakes is about 150,000. Rattlesnake bites are about 25 times more fatal in dogs than in humans and can result in permanent damage. At least 25% of poisonous snake bites do not result in envenomation, the injection of venom.

Rattlesnake venom is a hemotoxin that attacks the circulatory system and causes localized tissue damage at the site of the bite. Symptoms are dependent upon the size of the snake, the location of the bite on the body, and age, size, and health of the victim. Children are more likely to have severe symptoms because they receive a larger concentration of venom due to their smaller body size.

Any rattlesnake bite should be treated as a medical emergency that requires immediate care for humans or veterinary care for

pets. In humans, the bite victim should be immobilized and remain calm and transported to a hospital. Most bites are to the hand or leg which should be kept below the level of the heart. Once fi rst aid and supportive care have been instituted, a decision to use the antivenom CroFab is made. Tourniquets, constriction bandages, incisions and extraction of venom and cryotherapy (the application of ice) is not suggested. Pets suffering from rattlesnake bites should be transported to a veterinarian for immediate care. Vaccines are available that offer some immunity from poisonous toxins in the snake venom. Treatment for rattlesnake bite can be quite costly. Prevention to rattlesnake bite is best. Simple precautions can be taken to lessen the chance of encounter with a rattlesnake when enjoying outdoor activities. Keeping pets on a leash and under direct control, particularly during dusk, dawn and the hottest times of the day is advised. Wearing heavy boots creates vibrations that alert snakes of human presence, causing them to retreat or make themselves known. Never attempt to pick up or handle a rattlesnake.

The San Ramon Valley Education Foundation has launched their 2nd annual Friends of the Foundation membership drive funding Classrooms of the Future. In 2011, funding allowed SRVEF to pledge $171,000 toward their Classroom of the Future Matching Grant Program benefi tting all schools in the SRVUSD. Thousands of iPads and other critical technology have been purchased and will be supporting classrooms throughout the school district.

An individual membership is $25 and a family membership is $100. For this contribution, members will receive merchant supporter cards with discounts to various community merchants.

“Technology needs are massive at our schools and we rely on funding from so many sources to give students what they need to be competitive in the 21st century,” said Cristene Burr, Executive Director for SRVEF. “It’s a great community campaign that highlights what makes SRVEF so special: our ability to touch every child equally.” For more information visit www.srvef.org.

Annual Drive Funding Classrooms of the Future

Eight s tudents f rom Danville, San Ramon and Walnut Creek schools were among 38 honored from Contra Costa and Alameda counties at the annual ROP Students of Excellence awards ceremony May 10, in Concord. The students were selected for outstanding achievement in the i r ROP (Reg iona l Occupational Program) classes. Each received a certifi cate of merit and a $200 scholarship.

From Walnut Creek: Las Lomas High School— James G l o v e r , A u t o m o t i v e Technology

F r o m S a n R a m o n : California High School—Tim Farley, Engineering Design and Development, Patrice Mardo, Journalism Publications, Natalie Oberhauser-Lim, Med i c a l I n t e r ven t i on s . Doughe r ty Va l l ey H igh School—Micaelyn Richmeier, Careers in Teaching, Alexandra Silva, Sports Medicine

From Danville: Monte Vista High School—Kaitlyn

Area students receive Contra Costa ROP Awards Faria, Computer Graphic Arts,

Phillip Nelson, AP Computer Science.

The Contra Costa County ROP serves almost 12,000 students with classes in 34 high schools throughout Contra Costa and Alameda

counties. Currently, there are 366 state-of-the-art career development classes that focus on career preparation, hands-on experience, and academic excellence to prepare students for college and success in future careers.

By StaffWriter

page 8 The Valley SenTinel June 2012 valleysentinel.com

Health & Wellness

Sinusitis is infection or inflammation of the paranasal sinuses (often just referred to as “sinuses”), which are air-filled spaces that surround the nasal cavity. Most humans have four pairs of paranasal sinuses,

What is sinusitis?including the maxil lary, ethmoid, frontal, and sphenoid sinuses. Common symptoms of sinusitis include nasal congestion, nasal drainage, facial pressure or fullness, and a decreased sense of smell. Sinusitis has been divided into

the different categories based on the length of time that symptoms are present. Acute sinusitis generally lasts for less than four weeks, while chronic sinusitis is generally present for longer than 12 weeks. Some patients with chronic sinusitis also have nasal polyps, which

are overgrowths of nasal tissue caused by inflammation.

The most common reason for developing sinusitis is an unresolved cold or viral upper respiratory tract infection. Allergies are another common cause of developing sinusitis. In both cases, swelling of the nasal lining causes the openings of the sinuses to become blocked, allowing mucus to build up within the sinuses and bacteria to settle in.

It can be difficult to tell the difference between a viral cold, severe allergies, and a sinus infection. However, the process of developing a bacterial sinus infection usually takes at least 5-7 days. The use of antibiotics to treat symptoms within the first few days is not generally recommended, because antibiotics do not treat viruses or allergies. Overuse of antibiotics can lead to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria (or “super-bugs”),

Other medical treatments that are aimed at promoting sinus drainage and decreasing inflammation are helpful for viral colds, severe allergies, and sinusitis, and are often recommended early in the course of treatment. Most are available over-the-counter. The use of oral decongestants (such as Sudafed (pseudoephedrine) or phenylephrine) which are found in many cold medicines, saline irrigations and nasal saline sprays, and mucus-thinning agents, such as Mucinex (guaifenesin), may be helpful in increasing sinus drainage and relieving congestion. Antihistamines, such as Zyrtec (cetirizine), Clar i t in ( loratadine), or Allegra (fexofenadine) may be helpful if allergies are involved. The generic forms of these medications are widely available under different names and may be less expensive, so ask your pharmacist for assistance. Also, patients with

heart conditions or high blood pressure should avoid using oral decongestants (such as Sudafed) unless approved by their physician. The nasal lining can become very dried out during a viral cold or sinus infection, so remember to drink plenty of fluids to promote good drainage from the sinuses. Use of a bedside humidifier at night may also be helpful.

If symptoms fail to improve or begin to worsen over the first 5-7 days, a course of oral antibiotics is often prescribed. The choice of antibiotics is based on what is known about the most common types of bacteria that tend to cause s inusi t is. Some pat ients may require more than one course of antibiotics for their sinusitis to fully resolve. If patients fail to resolve with antibiotics, or if they develop sinus infections more than four times a year, a consultation with an ENT physician may be helpful. An ENT physician (o to l a ryngo log i s t ) , can sometimes obtain bacterial cultures from the sinuses to help determine whether an infection has been fully treated, or whether a different type of antibiotic is necessary. An ENT physician can also examine a patient for anatomic issues or the presence of nasal polyps that may cause them to be more prone to developing frequent sinus infections.

When medical therapy fails, a CT scan of the sinuses may be recommended to evaluate for the continued presence of infection or inflammation within the sinuses that is not clearing, or structural issues that may be contributing to illness.

Karen J. Fong, MD is a Physician & Surgeon at California Sinus Centers, Walnut Creek, CA and Atherton, CA. She is also Co-Director, CSC Advanced Sinus Surgery and Rhinology Fellowship.

By Karen J. Fong, MD

valleysentinel.com June 2012 The Valley SenTinel page 9

Health & Wellness

Phone (925) 820-4603

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Saturday 10 - 2

Malia Hill, the founder of Yoga Reaches Out Bay Area, is a resident of San Ramon teaching yoga in Castro Valley, Danville, Pleasanton, San Ramon, and Walnut Creek.

At a Lululemon Athletica Ambassador Summi t in Vancouver in 2011, Malia met the founder of Yoga Reaches Out, personal trainer and yogi, Sarah Gardner, of Wayland, Massachusetts. YRO held its first Yogathon in the New England Patriot’s training facility at Gillette Stadium’s Field House in Foxboro, Massachusetts, in the fall of 2010. Close to 500 yogis practiced yoga and raised over $225,000 for Children’s Hospital Boston and Yoga For Single Moms.

O n S a t u r d a y, J u n e 30, there will be another Yogathon at The Craneway Pavilion in Richmond, to benefit Children’s Hospital and the Africa Yoga Project.

Yoga Reaches Out fundraising for Children’s Hospital

Bay Area presenters will include Kevin Collins, Peter Guinosso, Buddy Macuha, Debbie Steingesser, Janet Stone, and others.

There will be a special performance by Company

organizations and businesses a solid understanding of the issues and opportunities that face our community. Many of the graduates go on to run for public offi ce, sit on boards and commissions, take leadership roles in their community service organizations or workplaces, or simply cast their ballots with a clearer historical perspective and a keener appreciation of all aspects of the complex issues affecting our community. The LSRV program is now accepting applications through July 1st for the upcoming 21st class. Please view the website at www.leadershipsrv.org for complete details and application.

Class of 2012Mark Ballock, Owner,

B a l l o c k S t u d i o s : N e a l Bottom, Claims Supervisor, Progressive Insurance; Pat Burgess, Realtor, Empire Realty Associates; Vanessa Cotton, San Ramon Regional Hospital; Michelle Cummings, Prevent ion Coordinator, Discovery Counseling Center; Tita Escalada, Mortgage Loan Officer, Jadestone Mortgage,

Inc.; Victoria Harris, Town of Danville Crime Prevention Specialist; Corinne Ferreyra, Leon Sigma Advisor, Chevron; Dar lene K i t t redge, C i ty of San Ramon Police; Rene Matsumodo, SRV PTA Council; Kathy Middleton, Senior Community Library Manager, C C Co. Library; Kathy Moore, SRVUSD; Stacy Moffi t, Global Partnerships, Chevron; Jeff Moule, Town of Danville Police Department Financial Advisor; Laura O’Brien, Summit Financial Group Finance Supervisor; Gloriann Sasser, San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District Project Engineer; Benjamin Serna, ENGEO; Paul Silva, Business Development, Iron Horse Interactive; Christopher Sherry, California Highway Patrol; Deanna Sullivan, Kiwanis Club of San Ramon Val ley Student Serv ices and Instructional Support Coordinator; Ann Uawithya, DVC San Ramon Campus; Roy Wendel, Code Officer, San Ramon Valley Fire District Principal; Mary Whipple, Law Offi ce of Mary C. Whipple; and Cindy Yee, Associate Planner, City of San Ramon.

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C Contemporary Ballet with Calvin Thomas & Ashley Muangmaithong.

The day will feature yoga, music, food, a marketplace, raffle, participant gift bags and more!

For more information please emai l : bayarea@yogareachesout.org

page 10 The Valley SenTinel June 2012 valleysentinel.com

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On Saturday, June 16th, the Contra Costa Master Gardeners (CCMG) and the Walnut Creek Library will present a f ree two-hour lecture called ‘Create Your Own Healing Garden.’ The lecture will be held from 10 :30am to 12 :30pm a t the Walnut Creek Library, located at 1644 N. Broadway in Walnut Creek. Join us in the 2nd floor Oak View Room to learn how to create a healing garden. The goal of

Create Your Own Healing Garden a healing garden is to make people feel safe, less stressed and more comfortable and even invigorated. Simple physiological processes of healing enhanced by the garden will be explained as well as elements of the healing garden.

The ta lk i s f ree and open to the public. Advance registration required. Register here: http://tinyurl.com/healing-garden-2012.

valleysentinel.com June 2012 The Valley SenTinel page 11

Spring Home and Garden

The Ranch Specialists Kevin Sullivan Jim Redd 707-489-4610 707-444-9234 www.ranchagent.com

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Since its opening 15 years ago, residents and small businesses have made hundreds of thousands of trips to the Central Contra Costa Sanitary District’s Household Hazardous Waste Collection Facility (HHWCF) in Martinez. The facility now collects and processes an average of more than two million pounds of hazardous waste each year, keeping often toxic materials out of the environment, helping to keep our local waters clean.

Items that can be brought to the HHWCF include paints, solvents, used motor oil, brake and transmission fl uids, antifreeze, pesticides, herbicides, household cleaning products, personal care products, batteries, mercury thermometers, fl uorescent lamps and CFL bulbs.

Last year, the HHWCF collected:

• 283,137 feet of fl uorescent tubes – 53 ½ miles!

• 29 ½ tons of household batteries

• 67,315 pounds of car batteries

Central San’s Household Hazardous Waste Collection Facility: 2 million pounds a year and countingBy Michael Scahill, Central Contra Costa Sanitary District Communication Services Manager

• More than 100,000 gallons of latex and oil-based paints

• 1,884 mercury-containing thermometers.

Over 90 percent of all the material brought to the facility is

reused or recycled. To that end, the HHWCF has a Reuse Room, stocked with items that are still useable and free to public. Its inventory often includes items such as paint, wood stain,

gardenproducts, and a variety of cleansers.

The Household Hazardous Waste Collection Facility is located at 4797 Imhoff Place in Martinez near the junction of Rt. 680 and Hwy 4. It is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and there is

no drop-off fee for residents of Central Contra Costa County. Small businesses are charged a nominal fee based on the type and quantity of material they bring.

For more information, call 1-800-646-1431 or visit the Central Contra Costa Sanitary District website at www.centralsan.org/hhw.

June • June • June • June • June • June • June • June • June • June

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Please email your Calendar Events to the Sentinel by 5pm on the 20th of the month preceding publication month. Info@valleysentinel.com or go to valleysentinel.com to enter your event online.

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

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

We hope to see you there!

COMMUNITY EVENTS

Gold RushNow - July 14Tuesday - Friday 1-4pm. Saturday 10am-1pm. Gold Rush exhibit at the Museum of the San Ramon Valley. 205 Rail-road Ave., Danville. Information: 925-837-3750 or www.museumsrv.org

The 31st Annual Walnut Creek Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau Art & Wine FestivalJune 2-3Stop by “Flavors of the Creek,” the 31st Annual Walnut Creek Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau Art & Wine Festival. Distinguished by its spacious park setting and family-friendly activities, the popular festival runs Saturday, June 2, 11am to 7 pm, and Sunday, June 3, 11 am to 6pm Free. Heather Farm Park, 301 N San Carlos Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: walnut-creek.com.

4th Annual Hook and Ladder Run June 3 Livermore-Pleasanton Firefighters Foundation will be Hosting the 4th Annual Hook and Ladder Run, Sunday, June 3, 2012 at Wente Vineyards located at 5050 Arroyo Rd. Livermore, CA 94550. This event will include a 5K run/walk, 10K run and a kids’ 1-mile fun run. The event benefi ts the Livermore-Pleasanton Firefi ghters Founda-tion, a non-profi t 501 (c) 3 that supports, injured and fallen Firefi ghters, the Burn Foundation and local charities in the Tri-Valley. For more information visit Event website: www.onyourmarkevents.com.

Semi-Annual Sidewalk SaleJune 9-10Hosted by the Walnut Creek Downtown Business Associa-tion and Atlas Men’s Shop. This special shopping event will take place during participating business store hours. All participating stores ranging from women and men’s cloth-ing & shoes, home furnishings & beauty salons to name a few, have super savings and great bargains for all to shop! Look for the red “sale” balloons. Downtown Walnut Creek. Information: walnutcreekdowntown.com.

WomanpowerJune 910am-4pm. Come to this interactive workshop and explore the changing dynamics of women’s power. You will discover how to recognize your hidden story and learn how to write a new one for the future. Reservations required. Free. JFK University Room 163, 100 Ellinwood Way, Pleasant Hill. Reserve/information: Deborah at 925-437-6474 or dwoodcampbell@yahoo.com.

Tool Box for Doing Business in Today’s Economy SeminarJune 117:30-9:30am. At a time when businesses across the coun-try are suffering, and in some cases, failing, it is helpful to learn methods and strategies to help cope with today’s economic realities. Local business owners will have an op-portunity to learn those strategies at an upcoming seminar put on by the Town of Danville. Danville Community Center, 420 Front Street, Danville. Reserve/information: Jill Berg-man at 925-314-3369 or jbergman@danville.ca.gov.

After-hours at the Danville LibraryJune 157-9pm. Open to students grades 4-8. Come for an evening fi lled with live music, exciting scavenger hunt, interactive gaming on the big screen, delicious treats from Jules Thin Crust Pizza and the Yogurt Shack, fun prizes, and informative speakers to engage and empower tweens! Reservations required. Danville Library, 400 Front Street, Danville. Reserve/information: 925-837-4889.

Create Your Own Healing Garden LectureJune 1610:30am-12:30pm. Join the Contra Costa Master Garden-ers in the 2nd fl oor Oak View Room to learn how to create a healing garden. The goal of a healing garden is to make people feel safe, less stressed and more comfortable and even invigorated. Simple physiological processes of heal-ing enhanced by the garden will be explained as well as elements of the healing garden. Walnut Creek Library, 1644 N. Broadway, Walnut Creek. Information: 925-977-3340 or jdebrauwere@ccclib.org.

Second Annual Polish Festival MartinezJune 1610am-6pm. Hosted by the East Bay Polish American As-sociation and other local Polish organizations. The festival will feature authentic, delicious Polish cuisine, Polish beer and booths with Polish jewelry, books, arts and crafts and will feature performances by local artists and children. Of course there will be plenty of wonderful Polish music! Las Juntas and Mellus Streets, Martinez. Information: polishfestival.com.

Girl’s Night OutJune 195:30-7:30pm. Hosted by Donna Reed – A Dress Change. Bring your friends and enjoy munchies, vino, make-up tips and samples, and massages! Try your luck for a fabulous raffl e basket; proceeds to benefi t the California Symphony. RSVP by June 15. Tickets: $5. A Dress Change, 125 Rail-road Avenue #B, Danville. Information: 925-837-4400.

June Wine WalkJune 206-9pm. All are invited to stroll through the many unique retail shops and restaurants of Downtown Walnut Creek, while enjoying a variety of outstanding wines. The present-ing sponsor will be Residual Sugar Wine Bar. Acoustic musicians will be performing throughout the downtown area during the event. Tickets: $30 in advance (until June 19), $40 at event. Starting location is Residual Sugar Wine Bar, 1684 Locust Street, Walnut Creek. Tickets/information: walnutcreekdowntown.com.

SENIORS

Danville SeniorsSneaker Trips: All trips meet at the Danville Park & Ride lot unless oth-erwise noted in the trip details. Reserve your spot at the Danville Community Center, 420 Front Street, on or before the registration date beginning at 8:30am. Information: 925-314-3400.Buzz Sessions: Get the buzz on topics and issues facing today’s older adults and talk with the experts. Buzz Sessions are always free! Information: 925-314-3400.San Ramon SeniorsThe following events are held at the Alcosta Senior & Com-munity Center, 9300 Alcosta Blvd., San Ramon. Informa-tion: 925-973-3250Wisdom Wednesdays: Free Workshops geared towards informational sessions that benefi t your needs. They will give you free access to coffee, knowledge and a better un-derstanding of important issues. Information: 973-3250. Trips Trip Desk is open Tuesday & Thursday, 10am-1pm. Informa-tion: 925-973-3250. Sign up for Casino Trips and Van Trips at the travel desk or by depositing payment with registration form in the gold drop box found at the main entryway.

BUSINESS

Danville Area Chamber of CommerceJune 14After Hours Mixer5:30pm. The Danville Interior Design Gallery, 430 Sycamore Valley Road West, Danville. Information: danvilleareacham-ber.com or call 925-837-4400.

San Ramon Chamber of CommerceJune 21Third Thursday Mixer5:30-7:30pm. Meet other business owners for an opportunity to network and make your business more visible. $5 for members and $20 for non-members. Sentinels of Freedom, 2678 Bishop Drive, BR 2 In the Lobby Area, San Ramon. Information: sanramon.org.

San Ramon Chamber of CommerceJune 26New and Future Member Orientation5pm. Please come and learn about the various Chamber services that can benefi t your business. No RSVP is needed. Free. Bishop Ranch 6, 2400 Camino Ramon Conference Room 158/K, San Ramon. Information: sanramon.org.

Alamo Chamber of CommerceJune 27June Mixer5:30-7:30pm. The community is invited to attend the June Mixer. Hospice Thrift Shop, Stone Valley Center, 3162 Danville Blvd., Alamo.

Walnut Creek Chamber of CommerceJune 28B.A.S.H. Monthly Mixer5:30-7pm. Join us at our Business and Social Hour mixer. Network with Chamber Members, Government Offi cials, Educators and Local Businesses. Members admitted free, non-members $10. Please bring your business card. Ruth’s Chris Steak House, 1553 Olympic Blvd., Walnut Creek. Information: walnut-creek.com or 925-934-2007.

CLUBS and ORGANIZATIONS

Fibro? CFIDS? Chronic Pain? If this is familiar to you, call about the San Ramon Valley support group for people who need support, information, classes and friendship from people who know what it’s like. We tend toward laughing while getting well. Call (925) 837-0510

Mt. Diablo Business WomenJune 14All business women are welcome whether you are a woman with your own business, an entrepreneur or in the corporate world. This month, Robin S. Fox will be speaking about LinkedIn. Reservations by June 14. Information: Miriam at 925-457-1027 or mtdiablobusinesswomen.org.

Walnut Creek Garden ClubJune 119:30am. Join us for the last meeting of the year at the Annual Installation of Offi cers and a Potluck Luncheon. Interested members can join the club for the following year at this meeting. Howard Center, the Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: jadmd3@sbcglobal.net.

San Ramon Valley Genealogical SocietyJune 1710am-12pm. The program will be of interest to both begin-ner and the more advanced genealogist. Library of the LDS Church, 2949 Stone Valley Road, Alamo. Information: Ed O’Donnell 925-299-0881, srvgensoc.org, or e-mail SRVGS@SRVGenSoc.org.

valleysentinel.com June 2012 The Valley SenTinel page 13

Classif ieds SERVICES

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

COMPUTERS

VP, Finan. Planning & Anal. Reptg., Asst. Mgr: M.B. in Acct., Comm., Fin. or rltd & 2 yrs. exp. in job offered or rltd. & exp. w/ KPI rptg.; Risk Weighted Assets under Basel II; GAAP; SAS, Hyperion/Essbase & Oracle. CV to: Bank of the West, 2527 Camino Ramon, San Ramon, CA 94583. ATTN: H.R. or send to careers@bankofthewest.com. EEO. The position is in San Ramon, CA.

HELP WANTED

Sales Executive: The Valley Sentinel Newspaper has immediate openings for two sales positions. No sales experience necessary, we will train. Must have an outgoing personality and a positive attitude. Compensation based on performance. The Valley Sentinel covers the most desirable areas of the Bay Area–Alamo, Danville, Blackhawk, Diablo and San Ramon. Please email your resume and request for interview to us at drousset@valleysentinel.com. The Valley Sentinel is seeking interns with web experience and interest in journalism, marketing, and community outreach. Please email us at drousset@valleysentinel.com, with your qualifi cations and interests. We’re developing various outreach projects in several departments and would love an interested person along who wants to learn and be part of the team.

Japanese Maples, Jacquemontii Birch Redbud (Forest Pansy and Rising Sun) Kousa Dogwood (Milky Way, Summer Gold and Wolf Eyes) Hydrangea (Varigated, Oakleaf and Climbing) Magnolia (5 varieties) Nyssa Sylvatica

Paeonia DelaveyPurple Smoke Gunnera ManicataRomneya Coulteri Lilac Wisteria (Aunt Dee, Blue Moon and Amethyst Falls)Viburnum Schizophragma ‘Moonlight’ Rhododendron

Chandler’s Nursery - Alamo Interesting Plants, Great Prices

Handcrafted raised planter boxes perfect for spring planting–available for delivery.

Also specializing in Blueberry Plants. 15 varieties available.Call for availability list and pricing.

(925) 285-0351

PLEASE RECYCLE THIS NEWSPAPER

Veterans of Foreign WarsJune 207:30pm. Every third Wednesday of the month. Veterans Memo-rial Building, 400 Hartz Avenue, Danville. Information: Post Com-mander Nathan Greene at 925-875-1747 or vfwpost75.org.

Alamo-Danville Newcomers ClubJune 28We are a women’s social or-ganization welcoming new or long-time residents interested in making new friends and getting involved in a variety of fun and worthwhile activities. You are invited to our free coffee to learn more about our group. Informa-tion: 925-281-1307 or www.ala-modanvillenewcomers.com.Recurring:Mondays:Danville Rotary12pm. Meets every Monday. Faz Restaurant, Danville. Info: danvillerotary.org.

Tuesdays:Danville AM Toastmasters Club7-8:30am. Meets every Tuesday. New members welcome. Father Nature’s Restaurant, Danville. Info: danvilleam.freetoasthost.org.

Danville/Sycamore Valley Ro-tary7am. Meets every Tuesday morning. Crow Canyon Country Club, Danville. Info: dsvrotary.com.

Diablo View Toastmasters8:15-9:15am. Meets every Tues-day. CMG Mortgage - 4th Floor Conference Room, 3160 Crow Canyon Road, San Ramon. Info: 4160.toastmastersclubs.org.

Walnut Creek Kiwanis Club12:10-1:30pm. Meets every Tues-day. Massimo’s Ristorante, 1604 Locust Street,Walnut Creek. Info: kiwanisofwalnutcreek.org.

Walnut Creek Rotary 12:15-1:30. Meets every Tues-day. Heather Farms Garden Center, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: rota-rywc.org.

Wednesdays:Alamo Rotary 12:15pm. Meets every Wednesday. Round Hill Country Club, 3169 Roundhill Road, Alamo. Information: alamor-otary.org.

Walnut Creek Host Lion’s Club12:15pm. Meets the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Wednesdays of each month. Black Bear Diner, 700 Bancroft Road, Walnut Creek. Information: walnutcreeklions.org.

San Ramon Valley Rotary7pm. Meets every Wednesday. Crow Canyon Country Club, 711 Silver Lake Drive, Danville. In-formation: sanramonvalleyrotary.com.

Danville Toastmasters #17857:30-9pm. Meets every Wednes-day. Information: danvilletoast-masters1785.com.

Walnut Creek Toastmasters7-8:15pm. Meets every Wednes-day. 1660 Oak Park Blvd, Pleas-ant Hill. Information: walnutcreek.freetoasthost.net.

Blue Star Moms7-9pm. The second Wednesday of every month. Danville Veterans Memorial Building, 400 Hartz Ave. Information: bluestarmoms.org.

Thursdays:Clutterers Anonymous7:15-8:45pm. Meets every Thursday. St. Luke’s Lutheran Church room 9, 2491 San Miguel Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: clawalnutcreek.eventbrite.com.

Diablo Valley Lions Club7:30pm. Meets every 1st, 3rd, and 4th Thursday. 1400 Montego Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: diablovalleyca.lionwap.org.

Rotary Club of San Ramon11:45am. Meets every Thursday. Crow Canyon Country Club, 711 Silver Lake Drive, Danville. Infor-mation: sanramonrotary.org.

Saturdays:Diablo Region of the Porsche Club of America7:30-9am. Meets every Saturday. Buttercup Bar and Grill, 660 Yg-nacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek. Information: diablo-pca.org.

It’s good business to listen to your customers, provide good value, own your work, and value your employees, InVision’s Rod Mickels told small-business owners and other guests at the Contra Costa Council’s 12th Annual Small Business Awards Luncheon, held on May 4th at the Hilton Concord. Mickels delivered the keynote at the event honoring small business owners, selected by their local Chamber of Commerce for their achievements in building their businesses and for their contributions to the community.

The popular luncheon is presented annually by the Council’s Small Business & Entrepreneurial Task Force.

Some of the 2012 small-business award winners are:.

• Danville Chamber: Marcia Harmon, owner of Cottage Jewel, a colorful boutique offering one-of-a-kind antique, vintage and artisan wares.

• Hispanic Chamber: A n g e l a n d K i m b e r l y Saucedo, owners of Golden Eagle Cleaning Solutions of Richmond, which offers green cleaning to more than 200 residential units the company manages.

• Lafayette Chamber: Philippe Chevalier, owner of Chevalier Restaurant, named one of the 10 best restaurants of the East Bay by Diablo Magazine and recipient of three Michelin Bib Gourmand awards.

• P l e a s a n t H i l l Chamber: Matthew Rinn o f Mat thew R inn S ta te Farm Agency, a generous supporter of Special Olympics athletes.

Twelve Outstanding Contra Costa Small Business Owners Honored at the Contra Costa Council’s 12th Annual Awards Luncheon

COMMUNITY CALENDAR (CONTINUED)

• San Ramon Chamber: Steve Wilcox, a founding partner of Summit Financial Group, which has supported local charities and children’s spor t s t eams fo r many years.

• Walnut Creek Chamber: Ron Brown, executive director of Save Mount Diablo, who led a diverse group of nonprofit organizations as successful corporate members of the business community.

Danville • Blackhawk • Alamo Diablo • San Ramon

www.valleysentinel.com

390 Diablo Road, Suite 145Danville, CA 94526

925-820-6047

Community News & Information

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

AUTOMarch 2009

page 14 June 2012 The Valley SenTinel valleysentinel.com

For 2012, Lexus has introduced a special Sports Package for its fl agship sedan, the LS460. The $6,185 Sport Package contains such worthy performance items as Brembo brakes, 19-inch forged alloy rims with 245/45R19 Dunlop Sport Maxx 101 tires, and Sports-Tuned Suspension. In addition, sports oriented front seats feature more lateral support than those of any prior LS. The upgrades in this option group extend to the tasteful matte burl ash wood trim, which adorns the center console, stick shift and door panels. Special grill and exterior trim, plus a sport steering wheel fi tted with paddle shifts, complete the package. While these features do not instantly convert the LS 460 into an AMG Benz or M spec BMW, they do go a long way to making this Lexus much more fun to drive. But to extract the performance this car is capable of providing, you must fi rst learn the secret handshake that will let you open Pandora’s box.

2012 LEXUS LS460By David and Judy Colman The Owner’s Manual for

this car is 836 pages long. About half way through it (page 306), you’ll fi nd out that Lexus prefers that you operate your LS with the full assistance of VDIM, or Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management which “provides integrated control of the ABS, brake assist, TRAC (Traction Control), VSC (Vehicle Stability Control), hill-start assist control, and EPS (Electric Power Steering),” because VDIM “Maintains vehicle stability when swerving on slippery road surfaces by controlling the brakes and engine output, and steering assist.” In fact, what it does is inhibit your control of the LS460 on any road surface, not just slippery ones, by intervening consistently to slow the vehicle from what IT judges to be dangerous speeds. On a curvy road, you’ll fi nd yourself in a constant battle with VDIM for control of the LS, with warning beeps supplied to alert you to its intervention. VDIM-induced loss of engine power and unexpected braking are incompatible with brisk back road motoring.

But now for that secret handshake, with explanation buried on page 308 of the manual: “Disabling TRAC and VSC.” Thankfully, Lexus does allow you to deactivate both Traction Control and Vehicle Stability Control by pressing the console-mounted “Off” button for 3 seconds. You can only do this while the car is stopped, and the gearbox is locked in “Park.” This simple step transforms the Sport Package LS from a gelding to a stallion. Suddenly you’re driving the Lexus version of a NASCAR stocker. The LS 460’s 380hp V8 will be more than happy to hook up those Dunlops and lay about 50 feet of rubber in fi rst gear. Unimpeded by TRAC and VSC, the big sedan gleefully hustles from corner to corner like the buttoned down decathlete it really is.

And yet, fun as it might be, such aberrant behavior is not really what this car is all about. Rather the LS460 is sweeter than a freshly picked ear of sugar ‘n butter corn. The 8-speed transmission wafts you effortlessly from gear to gear with a turbine-like softness. Yet

should the mood strike, you can slot that sweet Sequential Automatic Transmission into its Manual gate, and paddle your way from gear to gear without taking your hands off the sport steering wheel.

Like the drive train, the cabin furnishings are sweet and neat, with superb tailoring evident on the seat and dash seams. Lower seat cushion heating and ventilation adds to the splendor, courtesy of the $2,035 Comfort Package, which also brings heated rear seats, power door and trunk closers, plus a power rear sunshade. When you’re gliding down the Freeway, with the suspension system set to “Comfort,” the 19 speaker

Mark Levinson stereo ($2,080) whispering sweet nothings, and the big V8 piffl ing along at 1,500rpm in 8th gear, you’ll know you made the right fi nancial choice.

2012 LEXUS LS 460ENGINE: 4.6 liter DOHC,

32 Valve V8HORSEPOWER: 380hpTORQUE: 367 lb.-ft.FUEL CONSUMPTION: 16

MPG City/24 MPG HighwayPRICE AS TESTED:

$76,979FOR: Ultra Luxe and

Comfy DreamboatAGAINST: Ridiculous

VDIM limitsSTAR RATING: 8.5 Stars

out of 10

valleysentinel.com June 2012 The Valley SenTinel page 15

Seniors

How Do You Define

The Stratford defines living well as enjoying your independence in the loveliest of settings, where your health and happiness is our priority.

Living Well ?

increasing needs

transportation a lively activity calendar

views of Mount Diablo

By Stephanie Steinbrecher

A century has elapsed since German psychiatrist Alois Alzheimer fi rst identifi ed the disease that now bears his name, and since then Alzheimer’s disease has affected millions of individuals worldwide. Despite awareness about Alzheimer’s, few advances have been made towards fi nding a cure. A promising recent study, however, has shown that the possibility of understanding this disease and fi nding a cure may be imminent.

For a few years, researchers have tried to pinpoint what exactly happens inside the brain that causes Alzheimer’s. Alzheimer’s disease, as defi ned by the Alzheimer’s Association, is a kind of dementia that causes memory, thinking, and behavioral problems, usually in individuals over the age of 65. The disease worsens as it progresses. Many studies have shown that the buildups of plaques in the brain, made up of what are called beta-amyloid proteins, occur in patients with Alzheimer’s. This occurs because their brains cannot clear the proteins, and thus the nerve cells cannot communicate with each other. This accumulation over time can damage brain cells that are vital to memory and thinking.

Hope for a cure for Alzheimer’s DiseaseA new study by Dr. Gary

Landreth, a professor of neurosciences and the director of the Alzheimer’s Research Laboratory at Case Western Reserve University, may have found a way to clear beta-amyloid proteins from the brain and perhaps treat Alzheimer’s. In March 2012, Dr. Landreth published his fi ndings in the journal Science.

Dr. Landreth found that mice that had similar symptoms and plaque buildups as Alzheimer’s patients, when given a dose of the FDA-approved drug called bexarotene, began seeing favorable results within hours. Bexarotene usually is used to treat skin cancer in humans. The plaque buildups began to dissipate, and then a few days later, the mice regained some of the abilities and senses that they had lost, such as the ability to make nests. In 72 hours, 50 percent of the plaques were gone.

Though this study shows remarkable promise for the potential treatment of Alzheimer’s in the future, there are still some very pressing concerns. The dosages used in the mice need to be adjusted, according to Dr. Landreth, and the manner in which the medication is applied also

needs to be improved. There is also the issue that this has only worked in mice that have similar buildups of plaque in their brains and similar symptoms; there is no way of knowing how such treatment options will work for humans with Alzheimer’s.

In an interview for NPR’s “Science Friday” with John Dankosky, Dr. Landreth stated, “We don’t know that this works in humans at all. So the fi rst clinical test, which we will get underway in the next month or so, is to ascertain whether the human brain responds to this drug like the mice do. And until we ascertain that, we can’t go forward, and that’s a necessary prerequisite for any subsequent development.”

Now, 106 years after Alois Alzheimer identified the disease, it seems that researchers and doctors might be on the right track towards finding a cure. Alzheimer’s disease is predicted to affect 1 in 85 people around the world by 2050; if this is really the case, then the need to fi nd a cure is more important than ever. Dr. Landreth’s study may end or provide a step on the quest to end this far-reaching disease.

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