Column

The last time I saw Lorrie Sullenberger was in 2010, in my office In Danville. She and her husband, Sully, came to visit with an autographed first edition copy of his first book Highest Duty. in hand. Aside from bringing the book the reason for their visit was, essentially, for Lorrie to say “goodbye,” as the course of their lives had changed so much as a result of Sully’s “Miracle on the Hudson” landing, she would no longer be able to write her To Your Peak fitness column in ALIVE. Lorrie had faithfully continued her column for more than a year after that fateful day– January 15, 2009–submitting her final piece in the February 2010 issue of ALIVE.

Looking back nearly eight years, to say that Lorrie and Sully’s lives have changed may just be the understatement of the century. They have been guests of honor at everything from a Presidential Inauguration and the Super Bowl to the Rose Parade and they’ve appeared on every notable TV program from 60 Minutes to The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon. Sully has authored two books along with a re-release of hrs first j book under a clever new title-Sully-to coincide with the newly released film by the same name. Yes, I’d say “change” pretty well captures it when on top of all that they are being portrayed by Tom Hanks and Laura Linney in a movie directed by Clint Eastwood!

As the new film reinvigorates another wave of media attention, we thought it appropriate to take you back for a second look at our locally¬ connected, exclusive stories about the Sullenbergers that we originally published in April 2009.

First, you’ll again enjoy the casual interview that ALIVE feature writer Michael Copeland conducted with Sully and Lorrie In their Danville home where they discussed how the events on January 15, 2009 changed their lives forever, then you’ll read an open letter penned by Lorrie Sullenberger herself as she shares her thoughts and expresses gratitude for the outpouring of heartfelt letters they received soon after Sully’s miraculous landing in the Hudson River.

Finally, you’ll read author and ALIVE contributor Bob Fish’s unique perspective on just what makes someone a real hero-what sets them apart from the rest of us.

Even as the world might know the Sullenbergers as “celebrities,” here in the East Bay we still know Lorrie and Sully as neighbors and friends.

We hope you enjoy this issue of ALIVE, as you get to know Sully and Lorrie just a little better, too.

Does music play a role in national politics and especially in the political conventions of the two major parties in America? The answer is a resounding, yes!

Music plays a big part in both political parties, in the candidate’s conventions and in their individual campaigns for office. Music used in politics can be influential in supporting a political party or candidate; or it can be used to bring out the negative aspects of a political doctrine or candidate.

Clever spin doctors try to find music and lyrics that either enhance or detract from a candidate. If possible, they find music that advocates a partisan theme or opinion, making sure that it is primarily presented through radio and television. “It is not clear to what extent the political messages in and around music motivate fans, become a catalyst for discussion or function aesthetically,” said Pedelty, and Keefe. “Given the right historical circumstances, cultural conditions, and esthetic qualities, popular music can help bring people together to form effective political communities.”

In years past, the house band provided most of the music to introduce speakers and played music during pauses in the flow of a convention. There is always a need for music, such as the National Anthem, played usually at the start of conventions.

In more modern times, celebrity musicians are the norm rather than a house band.  These singers and musicians are usually very supportive of the party and presidential candidates. The nature of today’s music is usually pop and often rock oriented. Pre-recorded music is nearly always present.

Records indicate that music was present at early conventions dating back to 1860. During 1872, at the Republican Convention in Philadelphia, bands were out in the streets rallying people to get out the vote.  At the convention the band played a series of patriotic songs featuring, Hail Columbia, The Star Spangled Banner, Yankee Doodle and the Battle Cry of Freedom. 

After the last piece, the crowd was on its feet with excitement and great enthusiasm. These songs were followed by: The Loyal League Initiation Hymn and the March to the Sea. Hail to the Chief was used to introduce the speaker to the convention. The New York Times reported that in the Republican Convention of 1888 in Chicago, the crowd was united in a rousing rendition of Marching Through Georgia.

Traditionally, the Democrats choose music and artists that appeal to a more youthful, liberal group; as opposed to Republicans who present music identified with older people that are usually more conservative.

In modern political conventions the media, more specifically, the television media, is playing a much more dominant role than ever before.

None of the media-driven elements of a convention is more prominent than the change of daytime activities to prime time hours of the evening.  This, of course, was designed to significantly increase viewer coverage. Consequently, music became even more important to introduce and enhance candidate’s recognition and appeal.

Another aspect of music at party conventions is the question of the legality of using music without permission.  Although it may displease some composers or artists who actively object to a party or candidate using their music; the Christian Science Monitor stated, “While the use of famous  songs by political campaigns at live events may displease the musician, it is likely not a copyright violation.”

Apparently, if a venue has a general performance license and is a live performance, then it is considered legal, said Michael Carroll, a law professor at American University in Washington D.C.

Some well-known songs used by politicians at conventions and elections are:

Happy Days Are Here Again, by Milton Ager (music) and Jack Yellen (lyrics), was the theme song of Franklin Roosevelt and the Democratic Party. High Hopes, by Sammy Cahn, was used by John F. Kennedy. Born in the USA, by Bruce Springsteen, was Ronald Reagan’s campaign song. Don’t Stop, by Fleetwood Mac, was Bill Clinton’s song. I Won’t Back Down, by Tom Petty, was George W. Bush’s campaign song. Eye of the Tiger, by Frank Sullivan, was used by Newt Gingrich. Born Free, by Kid Rock, was used by Mitt Romney. Signed Sealed Delivered I’m Yours, by Stevie Wonder, was Barack Obama’s campaign song You and I, by Celine Dion, is Hillary Clinton’s song We Are The Champions, by Queen, is Donald Trump’s campaign song.

The importance of music to enhance political campaigns cannot be measured. The identify it gives the candidate and the campaign becomes recognizable by the public when hearing the music. Without the music in political campaigns the anticipation, emotional effect, drama, fun and tremendous excitement would be missing.

Please submit your questions and comments to banddirector01@comcast.net Visit our website at www.danvilleband.org for up-to-date information about the Danville Community Band.

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There’s no denying it. Summer has passed. The mornings are crisp, the days are short, and we feel the year drawing to a close. My nesting instinct shifts into over-drive this month, and I view this as cause for celebration. Stack up the firewood, light the candles, hang a wreath on the door, and pile the pumpkins on the front porch! There are still plenty of good times ahead.

Although the last of vine-ripened tomatoes still abound, this month’s farmers’ market also features autumn’s star crops: crunchy apples, creamy pears, plump figs, juicy pomegranates, fiery persimmons, pumpkins (of course), and sweet table grapes.

Grapes imported from far-off lands are available in supermarkets throughout the year, but usually a sorry excuse for the real thing.  When not shriveled or moldy, they’re often unpalatably sour. Though technically in season from May through January, autumn is when locally-grown grapes come into their own.

Grapes have a natural affinity for cheese—which is why they are nearly always used to garnish cheese platters. Their cool sweetness adds color and zest to all sorts of salads—from mixed greens to chicken to Waldorf. They are a healthy snack eaten out of hand; and a surprise burst of goodness when frozen for icy “poppers.”

This month’s recipe involves the less-common technique of roasting grapes, which intensifies their unique flavor. In addition to making a delicious topping for crostini, roasted grapes make a stellar accompaniment to all matter of poultry and pork, including grilled Italian sausage.

Fruit-of-the-Vine Facts

California’s grape growing tradition began with the Spanish missions, with grapes planted for sacramental wines.

In the early 1800’s, Californians began growing grapes to eat fresh. In the 1900’s, European immigrants began growing grapes in the Central Valley.

Thanks to our unique climate, California grows over 98% of the table grapes sold in the United States.

In 2015, California grape growers harvested their third largest crop in history– 110.5 million boxes!

Americans consume an average of over 8 pounds of grapes per year.

Look for plump grapes with pliable green stems.

Many grape varieties have a subtle white coating called “bloom.” This is simply nature’s way of keeping moisture inside the grapes, and rinses off easily.

Refrigerate unwashed grapes in an open plastic bag until ready to serve; then rinse under cold water and pat dry.

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California Grape Crostini

1 pound seedless red table grapes, such as Red Flame

3 fresh thyme and/or rosemary sprigs, plus extra for garnish

2 tablespoons California extra-virgin olive oil

Coarse (kosher) salt

1 large pinch crushed hot red pepper flakes

12 to 14 ounces soft cheese, such as California goat cheese, blue, or fresh ricotta, at room temperature

Small arugula leaves (optional)

1. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. Remove the stems from about 12 ounces of grapes; and cut the remainder into small grape clusters. (Keeping grapes attached to their stems ensures that some of the grapes will retain their shape during the cooking process.)

2. Place the loose grapes and grape clusters on a parchment-lined rimmed baking sheet. Top with herb sprigs and drizzle olive oil over all. Season with salt to taste, and sprinkle with pepper flakes. Toss to lightly coat the grapes with oil, and spread into an even layer. Bake until most of the loose grapes have collapsed and wrinkled, 12 to 15minutes.

3. When cool enough to handle, discard the herb stems and either remove stems from the grapes, or use the small clusters as an edible garnish when serving. Scrape the grape mixture into a small serving bowl. (The grapes can be prepared a day or two in advance, and returned to room temperature before serving.)

4. Arrange the crostini, cheese, arugula (if using), and bowl of roasted grapes on a wooden cutting board or large platter, and garnish with fresh herb sprigs. Have each guest spread cheese over a crostino and top with a leaf of arugula and a spoonful of roasted grapes. Serves 8 to 10.

Variation

The roasted grape mixture can be spooned over the top of a small wheel of brie anddrizzled with a bit of local honey. Garnish the platter with fresh herbs and a handful of toasted whole almonds or walnut halves. Serve with crackers or crostini.

Crostini

24 baguette slices (cut 1/4- to 3/8-inch thick)

3 tablespoons California extra virgin olive oil

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Arrange a single layer of bread slices on a baking sheet. Brush the top of each slice with oil.

2. Bake until golden and lightly toasted at the edges, 7 to 10 minutes. Let cool. Use at once, or store airtight at room temperature for up to 3 days.

 Variation

To make Garlic Crostini: Bake the crostini as directed above. When cool enough to handle, rub the browned side of each toast with the cut side of a garlic clove, grating against the rough surface to distribute the garlic flavor.

The Danville Certified Farmers’ Market, located at Railroad & Prospect, is open every Saturday, rain or shine, from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. For specific crop information call the Pacific Coast Farmers’ Market Association at 1-800-949-FARM, or visit their web site at www.pcfma.org. This market is made possible through the generous support of the Town of Danville. Please show your appreciation by patronizing the many fine shops and restaurants located in downtown Danville. Buy fresh. Buy local. Live well!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I’m not sure if the driving force for me to trade in my 2-door for a 4-door was when we began toting my daughter, Cayla’s, friends around or if it was the daily back-breaking task of moving the car seat in and out via maneuvering it through the tight crevasse leading to the back seat! Either way, my 15 years of owning only coupes and convertibles took a hike. The truth is, I did not know how much I missed the sportiness of a coupe until I slipped behind the wheel of the 2016 Honda Civic Touring.

Even though this article focuses on the Coupe model, I should mention that the 2016 Honda Civic comes in both 2 and 4 doors both with LX, EX and Touring trims.

Now in its 10^th generation, the 2016 Honda Civic is a ground-up revision of the 9^th generation, and according to Honda, it’s their most comprehensive and ambitious new-model development ever undertaken.

The development of the Civic Coupe and Sedan was led by Honda’s North American team—a first for Honda. The Civic is a major part of Honda’s legacy and the first car for many kids and young adults. Luckily, the Civic has grown-up in both features and size, compared to the original, cute, tiny box on wheels.

Virtually everything about the 2016 Civic Coupe is new. It has an all-new vehicle architecture, sporty and sophisticated interior and exterior styling, a more spacious and high-quality cabin, two advanced new engines, and a host of new premium features and technologies.

Further, with the addition of Honda Sensing™ safety and driver-assistive technologies on the Touring trim and the first application of Honda turbo engine technology applied to Civic on the EX-T and above trims, the 2016 Civic Coupe offers buyers a wider range of options than ever before. Civic models powered by the new 2.0-liter i-VTEC™ engine are designated as the Civic LX and LX-P trims. Civic models powered by the new turbocharged 1.5-liter engine are designated as the EX-T, EX-L (with leather-trimmed interior) and new line-topping Civic Touring, which reaches higher into the upper end of the compact car market than ever before.

Class-leading EPA fuel economy ratings of 31/41/35 mpg (city/highway/combined) for models with a zippy 1.5-liter turbo mated to a CVT and 30/41/34 mpg for models with the 2.0-liter engine tagged with the CVT and 26/38/31mpg for the LX with the 2.0-liter engine and manual transmission. Not bad at all!

Sporty truly describes the coupe with its swoop-like sheet metal. The roof has been lowered approximately an inch, while the shoulder line below the rear windows rises up a few inches. The tail and rear overhang have been tucked in another five inches. Since the Coupe and Sedan share a wheelbase, the Coupe’s shadow becomes more aggressive, with the wheels pushed out to the ends of the car, sports-car style.

The interior feels upscale with techy features throughout. The seats are comfortable and the seating position is low. It has gained more rear legroom now totaling 37.4-inches and the trunk space is 11.9 cubic feet (Coupe). The dash lights up like a video game and the controls are easy to operate. There is no radio volume knob, however, instead, a touch-slide bar. I preferred the old fashion knob for ease of use.

The handling of the 2016 Civic Coupewas very sporty and confident, thanks in part, to the new multi-link independent rear suspension and larger stabilizer bars with bonded bushings for a more refined body control. The Civic Coupe is agile thanks in part to the assist brake torque vectoring for cornering precision and stability. A dual-pinion electric power steering with variable gear ratio helps improved steering feel and maneuverability delivering a fun-to-drive experience.

Cool Features:

• Push Button Start
• The Honda LaneWatch feature, which uses a camera on the right-side mirror to put a picture of your right-hand blind spot on the display screen whenever the right turn signal is activated
• Available Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™

Safety on the 2016 Honda Civic features the Honda Sensing™ safety and driver-assistive technologies, next-generation ACE™ body structure, new crash stroke front frame design, and ultra-rigid high-strength steel floor for enhanced collision performance. Ranked highest-available collision performance safety ratings – a 5-star Overall Vehicle Score in the NHTSA’s NCAP, a TOP SAFETY PICK from the IIHS for the LX through EX-L trims and a TOP SAFETY PICK+ from the IIHAS for the Touring trim. Airbags include dual-stage front airbags, front side airbags, and side curtain airbags with rollover sensor.

In Summary –The 2016 Honda Civic Coupe is a blast to drive. Honda set out to prove it could still build a conventional compact vehicle that leaves its competition in its shadow. The touring is loaded with high-tech features, performance and handling, and a beautiful, sporty interior and exterior that is fun to drive. The passenger-side seat button creates the easier loading of both children and car seats in the back too!

Specifications

2016 Honda Civic 1.5T Touring Coupe

 

Base price:                  $26,125as driven: $26,960 (including destination & optional
features)

Engine:                        1.5-liter Turbocharged DOHC4-cylinder

Horsepower:              174 @ 6,000 RPM

Torque:                      162 @ 5,500 RPM

Transmission:            CVT automatic

Drive:                          FWD Drive

Seating:                       5-passenger

Turning circle:           35.7 feet

Cargo space:               11.9 cubic feet

Curb weight:               2888 pounds

Fuel capacity:             12.4 gallons

EPA mileage:              City 30/Hwy 41

Wheel Base:                106.3 inches

Warranty:                   3 years/36,000-miles powertrain limited

Also consider:             Kia Forte Koup, Scion tC, Mini Hardtop 2 Door, and the Fiat 500

 

Q. I’ve been told that the sweetest bell peppers are those with four bumps on the bottom as they are the females. The “male” pepper has only three bumps. Is this factual? In addition, my red, mini bell peppers are now starting to turn a marbling color. They’re a combination of red, orange, and green colors and then start to shrivel up. Are they lacking something or just very confused?

A. The number of bumps or lobes on a pepper is not an indicator of sweetness, nor the sex of a fruit. Peppers have both male and female reproductive structures in the same flower. They do not produce separate male and female fruits. The male flower is sterile. It’s the female that produces the fruit although some male flowers on a papaya have been known to set fruit. Genetics determines the number of lobes on a pepper. The four lobed ‘bell’ pepper is the most popular in the USA, so plants have been bred for this characteristic. Sweetness is another genetic characteristic. The sweetness in all sweet peppers increases as they mature. They start out green and change color as they ripen. The color depends on the specific variety; the most common variety is red when ripe. Red, yellow or orange sweet bell peppers start out green and turn red, yellow or orange when ripe. What can be confusing, is that there is also a variety that is green when ripe. Peppers shrivel up when they are over ripe and on the decline. So they need to be picked before this occurs. The green bell peppers you find at the store are usually an unripe green sweet bell pepper or it could be an unripe red. They will not be any of the other color varieties in the green stage because the other colors can be sold at a much higher price, so they are always allowed to ripen before being sold. The additional time it takes to ripen and change color accounts for the reason they are more expensive. Overall, you’re waiting too long to harvest the peppers, so pick them before they start to shrivel.

Q. My tulip bulbs have arrived from Holland. I’m planning on planting them in containers to give as Christmas gifts. What do I need to know about the soil preparation and/or potting these bulbs?

A. Tulip bulbs should be chilled for four to six weeks prior to planting unless the bulbs were pre-chilled before shipping; otherwise, the flower stems will be very short. Tulip bulbs are cooled by placing them in the vegetable bin of a refrigerator. You should remove any fruit including tomatoes as they release a naturally occurring gas called Ethylene that can damage the immature flower(s). In mid to late November, plant the bulbs in the containers using any of the commercially available potting soil. The planting depth will depend on the size of the container. The bulbs should be at the soil surface with any six inch or smaller container to allow room for the roots. With larger containers, you can move the bulbs down half way in the pots. A tablespoon of bulb food is place under the bulbs with a layer of soil between the fertilizer and the bulb. You now have two options as far as spacing the bulbs. They can be evenly spaced or placed next to each other. I prefer the later when using them as a gift or when planted in containers for color on decks and patios. By Christmas, it is very doubtful that the bulbs would have started growing. The addition of seasonal color will bridge the gap. Violas, Pansies and Alyssum can be planted in between the bulbs after you added more soil but be sure to leave sufficient room to water. I’d use straws to mark the gaps. The tulips will have no problem emerging through the roots and foliage. The finished containers are placed outdoors in a protected area and watered every two weeks. I would not put the finishing decorations on until the last minute. Beside the traditional items, you could use Pyracantha or Toyon berries along with some bark or decorative rock to make them festive looking.

Q. Our yard is sometimes visited by deer as we live next to a creek. One night a deer ate the foliage of a recently planted cherry tree. I’ve started using a dried blood based deer repellent around the trees and it has been effective in the past plus it’s also a mild fertilizer. Now, the new growth from the base has bore some fruit but they were plums. Are cherry trees grafted on to a plum root stock? Is it possible that we purchased an incorrectly labeled tree?

A. Yes, your cherry tree is budded on to a different rootstock but not plum. Cherry trees are budded on to a wild cherry rootstock called Mazzard. Mazzard is best suited for sweet and tart cherries but not sour or pie cherry varieties planted in clay soil. Plums are budded on to Myroblolan Seedling rootstock, as it is also adaptable to clay soil and root-knot nematode resistant. You also should have noticed a difference in the size of the leaves between the original tree and the new shoots from the base. Cherries have large leaves while plum leaves are noticeably smaller. Hence, your tree was mislabeled and I’d replant a new cherry. Blood Meal is an old time, organic fertilizer and deer repellant. It’s placed in mesh bags and hung in trees at the nose height of the deer.  The repellant effect is usually lost when placed only on the ground since it’s the smell that drives the animal away. In addition, you might ring the tree with chicken wire to form a cage, keeping the deer at a safe distance.

I have a new favorite word. And I won’t lie –I got great satisfaction when even the biggest self-proclaimed logophile (someone who is a lover of words) I know had never heard of it. It’s not just that I like the way it sounds; it’s my new favorite word because I really love what it means.

Metanoia – (n) the journey of changing one’s mind, heart, self or way of life

Metanoia has Greek roots meaning “repentance.” However, in our modern, secular society, its contemporary meaning has a much broader application, and to me, doesn’t imply any religious or negative connotation. To repent infers regret, sorrow, shame, remorse, and to change your ways or habits as a result of a past sin. When I think of the word repent, I also think of it as an act of letting go – letting go of previous unjust actions, thoughts or habits directed towards oneself or others. And so even if we were to hold to this Greek root as a modern understanding of metanoia, there is still a process, a journey of letting go and becoming who we are ultimately meant to be.

I love that this one word encapsulates this process of transformation that touches each part of our being. We all know the old adage; “it’s about the journey, not the destination…” We get so focused on the outcome that we forget to notice what is arising along the way. It’s so common to start life on a certain path, assume that it will be a straight line, and then never check in to see if it’s still the right one. The reality is that our life’s path is one of many curves; it’s possible we may never quite arrive at the elusive destination because we are constantly changing. What our destination may have looked like at 25 years old, likely is very different at 35, 45 or 60 years old, but we often hold onto that original ideal. This makes it challenging to go with the flow and let that path evolve. We can get stuck on autopilot, constantly moving forward in habits and patterns that are familiar, not always checking to see if we are living in alignment with our heads and our hearts.

Even though the most constant thing in life is change, it can be very scary. Change is hard to accept, even more difficult to enact and so many of us rarely do it. Metanoia requires us to be brave—it takes courage to make a shift to any aspect of ourselves, big or small. To go through the journey of changing one’s mind is a process of looking at all of our thoughts, habits and patterns and asking if they are in alignment with who we are in the here and now, along with being open to seeing the world through fresh eyes. To change one’s heart is to reconcile past hurts and let go of what is no longer serving us, along with the ability to practice forgiveness, compassion and loving-kindness to ourselves and others. It requires that we hold up the mirror, look within and acknowledge the pieces that we don’t like. And to change our way of life requires stepping into the unknown on faith.

My own metanoia has been a work in process for many years, part of which lead me to the practice of mindfulness, the practice of living my life with intentional, present moment awareness. By shifting from autopilot to paying attention, I let go of many “should.” The journey was not easy by any means, but it led me to an authentic life in which I strive to be fully present in all aspects.

I recently opened the Bay Area Mindfulness and Therapy Center, in Danville, where I offer individual and couples therapy, as well as a variety of original mindfulness classes. My focus and specialty is working with those going through life transitions, as well as parenting struggles, to help them reach their own metanoia. I provide a safe, confidential environment where I accompany my clients through examining their thoughts, habits and patterns to be able to live in alignment with their heart, mind and soul. Visit mindfulnessandtherapycenter.com for more information or to set up a free consultation.

Joree Rosenblatt, MA, is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and founder of The Bay Area Mindfulness and Therapy Center. She has a passion for helping others live their optimal life through the cultivation of a mindfulness practice. Contact her for more information or to set up an appointment. joree@comcast.net

 

Dear SSHS,

My mom and I are having a debate about tattoos. I want one, but she thinks it could get in the way of my getting a good job one day. I just don’t think that’s a relevant argument in today’s world. What do you think?                                                                                                ~ Chantal B., Berkeley

She Said: Certainly tattoos are mainstream these days, but your mom does have a point. There are some employers who might pass judgment, and if hiring came down to you and someone without a tattoo, I suppose, all things equal, you could lose out. How about you negotiate getting your tattoo on a place where it would be covered by work attire? Maybe not as much fun, but better safe than sorry!

He Said: You might think that tattoos are no big deal nowadays but not everyone is so open-minded. You have to understand that when an employer is looking to hire, they want someone who is going to benefit their company and not become a distraction. And it’s their right to think that way. If your tattoo is a potential distraction, then they will most definitely favor someone else for the job. I agree with Robin, get the tattoo but only somewhere where you can cover it.

Dear HSSS,

Do you think it’s normal for someone’s husband to use his wife’s toothbrush when on vacation because he left his at home?                                                                               ~ Grossed out, San Ramon

He Said: It’s definitely not normal and a little unsanitary, but you kiss his mouth don’t you? I’m sure a dentist would argue a kiss and sharing a toothbrush are not the same thing but what bad could really come of it? Just run the toothbrush under hot water for a few seconds or splash some mouthwash on it to kill any germs. Besides, sharing your brush is better than having to smell his breath while on vacation.

She Said: Where are you vacationing where he can’t just run down to the drugstore and buy another toothbrush? I’ve heard the argument, that you share worse things, why not a toothbrush?  My informal poll tells me guys don’t think there’s anything abnormal about it, but by and large, women object, so tell hubby you’ll share many things, but not that. Then carry a fresh spare while on vacation, just in case.

Robin Fahr is a communications specialist and host of Conversations seen daily on Tri-Valley TV, Channel 30 and online at www.trivalleytv.org. Shawn is that guy that everyone goes to for advice. Send your questions to www.AskHeSaidSheSaid.com.

In 2004, Align Healing Center began using laser therapy to help patients relieve their muscle, joint and nerve pain. Due to the near miraculous results that laser can provide to a sprain, strain or chronic pain, our patients began to ask “what else can laser help heal?” Wondering the same thing, we began to branch out and use laser on any and all injuries and wounds that our patients were presented with. We have literally watched the healing process occur right before our very eyes. Swelling reduces within minutes, severe bruises dissipate with no visible sign within a day or two and surgical wounds become painless, with minimal scarring and redness. We have had patients that have had knee surgery and hip replacements, shoulder surgery, spinal surgery, breast augmentation and reconstruction, rhinoplasty, face-lifts and c-sections that heal in a fraction of the time typical without the use of laser therapy. If you are intending on having surgery or have a stubborn injury that has taken longer to heal than you would have expected it is worth your while to explore the benefits of Class IV K-Laser therapy.

How Laser Therapy Speeds Tissue Healing

Injuries and surgery cause tissue damage and inflammation which reduces the circulation to the injured tissue thereby impeding the nutrition and energy available to the damaged area. Laser therapy is the application of low levels of laser light to areas of the body that have been injured or damaged.  Therapeutic lasers do not cut or burn, but instead, supply energy to the body in the form of photons of light. Light is transmitted through the skin’s layers (the dermis, epidermis and the subcutaneous tissue under the skin). The wavelength of the Class IV Laser allows these photons to travel deep into the body; up to 8-9 inches. When laser light penetrates into the body, it stimulates damaged cells to start producing ATP. ATP is the “fuel” or energy source that all cells need to function and repair. When damaged cells have the energy they need to function properly they can immediately start the repair process.  Laser therapy accelerates the healing of injured areas, decreases inflammation, and eliminates pain allowing patients to quickly return to normal activities.

How long does it take to work?

95% of our patients notice improvement after the very first treatment. However, some conditions may take a few treatments to respond. Each laser treatment is cumulative, meaning that each successive treatment builds on the previous. The doctors at Align personally work with you each visit to ensure that you are progressing as quickly as possible.

What People Are Saying about K-Laser at Align Healing Center

I cannot thank you enough for the “miracle healing” of my knee! It was such a bad fall and yet after the first treatment I have never had any more pain and I have been able to be on my feet all day. Thank you so much for your great laser and your caring treatment.   J. Frank, Walnut Creek

I’m entirely pain free this morning…You’re a magician!!  I’ll encourage my patients to consider laser therapy for their pain.  Thanks again.  Dr. Navolanic, MD

Six months after my hip replacement I was still in debilitating pain when I walked any distance. After K-Laser therapy I am able to live a normal life, which for me includes hiking and biking without pain! J. Franco, Danville

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

 

So, I guess you could say we’re going to have our own little Octoberfest; except this isn’t about sausages (pun definitely intended) and beer but about the life and times of Anthony Weiner.

I watched this movie and as I settled down at my computer, former Democratic Congressman Anthony Weiner was once again in the news. This time he was allegedly sexting with a 15 year old girl. My thought was: has he no shame?  Obviously, not so much.  I have to admit, I’m baffled. When I first heard about this documentary of his “big come back,” I was marginally intrigued. Firstly, he went down in flames in his bid for Mayor of New York City so there was no re-entry into politics.  Secondly, I suppose I was wondering why he even released the film since he failed.

I spent the first part of the movie trying to figure out why. Then I decided to just sit back and relax. The film gives unusual insight into people who feel they are destined for leadership in the political arena. I’m not comparing Weiner to some of the great men who have served but I believe they probably have to have some of that sense of destiny in them.

Winner in the category of Best Documentary of 2016 at the Sundance Film Festival, Weiner is funny, witty, and confusing; I’m still wondering why he would expose his family to this degree.

Huma Abedin, Hillary Clinton’s top aide for many years, is Mr. Weiner’s wife. A woman who has spent many years behind, beside and around Hillary yet she chooses to rarely be in the limelight. Huma is said to be highly qualified and Mrs. Clinton has said that she is like a daughter to her. They certainly have some similar life experiences.

To insure Weiner’s Mayoral win, Huma was front and center. She appeared with him, stood with him and even spoke for him. That had to be hard, yet she agreed to another indulgence of this man when they invited the public into their home, offices and vehicles to film Weiner. During this campaign there was yet another scandal involving a 22 year old woman who actually attempted to sabotage his campaign, appearing on TV and literally chasing him around NYC.

Anthony Weiner was born and raised in Brooklyn.  I truly believe he loves New York City. He served as a Member of the NYC Council from 1992-1998. He served 12 years in Congress from 1999-2011 resigning because of a sexting scandal. Huma stayed with him and in 2013 there was another scandal. It makes you wonder whether the behavior ever stopped or ever will. Does he realize what he is doing wrong? As I watched him in the film, I realized none of it was about the sexually explicit texts to many women (now girls), it was about how to spin whatever was happening to the media. I know this has to happen in every campaign to some degree but I am just sick and tired of the information I receive being altered, manipulated and managed by people who create a life of doing just that. How do they sleep at night?

Weiner makes you ponder. Politics is definitely a “glass house” kind of job. Many men and women of integrity have survived the transparency of the profession. As the media continues to take on a different role in campaigns, will voters become more critical or just jaded and desensitized. This film is educational and entertaining. Its R rated for language so not so much for the kids!  Let me know what you think at chastings@rockcliff.com.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A professional make-up application doesn’t have to cost a fortune—plus, it’s a great way to try out new trends and formulas. As a professional make-up artist, I think it’s a great idea to have your make-up professionally done once in a while, regardless of whether it’s for special event. Why? Formulas change, trends change and it’s healthy and fun to look fresh and updated. Wearing corals and bright pinks in the winter does not go with winter tone fashion. The same thing applies in the summertime, when you wouldn’t wear a berry lipstick and smokey eyes when going to the beach.

Every year the fashion industry reinvents itself and it just keeps getting better and better every year.  New formulas, fresh techniques and updated colors in make-up, when applied correctly, can make you look years younger, while keeping you on-trend and fashion-forward.

My clients update their looks every 3 to 6 months. You see celebrities changing their looks and locks all the time, why not you, right? Just like when you have something in mind for a new hairstyle, you bring pictures to your hair designer. In cosmetics you can do the same thing with the make-up artist. Bring photos of styles you like, also bring pictures of celebrities and models whose make-up you love to keep a good communication between you and the artist and to give them a sense of the look you’re going for. The make-up artist may have suggestions for how to adapt the trend to suit you rather than treating it literally. (By the way, the celebs most often mentioned by my customers whose make-up they want to emulate are Kylie Jenner, Kate Hudson, Kim Kardashian, Katy Perry, to name a few).

Application technique is just as important as any product, you have to know how to apply it correctly. At The Rouge we cater to women who need and want to know what is in style along with what they can realistically do. We offer make-up updates every season to help women achieve a more trendy and polished look, and as a bonus, you get to try on all the latest cosmetic trends without having to be pushed to buy. Alternatively, you can book a 90 minute lesson which cost a little more, but you will receive valuable information on the latest skin care, as well as a custom blended foundation, a full updated look for day as well as an evening style.

The Rouge also has a roster of free walk-in services called ‘Just One Look’ that will focus on a key feature; e.g., eye brow shaping, eye trends, custom foundation and how to choose the right lip color based on the season and your individual personality. These are based on artist availability and designed to teach our clients how to use products effectively and correctly. I say that you should give a pro make-up artist a try. You will discover the perfect go-to item and a hot new look that you will love.