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This month’s Investor’s Edge column begins where last month’s ends…with the second part of a six-part series. The series is about the six steps of the financial planning process. The make-up of a comprehensive financial plan includes six elements. “Insurance planning and risk management” is the second element of the process (see part 1, “Financial statement preparation and analysis” here). My hope is that from this six-part series, you will gain a greater understanding of and appreciation for the financial planning process. The process, by definition, is never-ending as life-long monitoring is required to ensure a successful plan. It can serve you beyond your lifetime, continuing throughout the lives of your beneficiaries.

Only a select group of planners have met the rigorous education, examination, experience and ethics requirements set forth by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, necessary to be a Certified Financial Planner™ professional (CFP^®). For me, I recall this part, Insurance planning and risk management, as the most robust and far-reaching element of my studies of the financial planning process. Your life, assets and financial arrangements can be equally complex. Planning for preserving and passing on your estate is far from simple.

As you know in life, the only thing certain is that life is uncertain. There are many risks and uncertainties that can occur to disrupt your well-being and financial security at any time. Only proper prior planning can minimize, NOT AVOID, unexpected life events. Not fun to think about, but death, disability, or other potential hardships are necessary considerations in your financial plan and essential to the success of the process. Assessing and attempting to minimize and manage the risks associated with life’s unwanted surprises, or even the inevitable events, is a critical success factor to ensure that you and your loved ones can live desired lifestyles. Below are just a few common considerations to help with the notion of insurance planning and risk management as they relate to financial planning.

Life Insurance:  This is an important component of financial planning. With prudent counsel, you can ensure you have enough insurance coverage to care for your loved ones should an unexpected tragedy occur, or just to efficiently pass on your estate at the time of your eventual demise. As much as everyone’s circumstances, and needs and desires are different, life insurance is not needed by everyone. Still, it’s an important factor to consider within your overall financial plan. The coverage delivers the opposite of my investment tenet, Don’t risk a lot to gain a little.  I view life insurance as returning a lot for spending a little.

Long Term Care:  Long Term Care (LTC) insurance coverage plans are now widely accepted as a helpful financial planning product. LTC, though, has various features and benefits that come with a cost and confusion. With people living longer, and in many cases with medical complications that require a high level of medical attention, LTC insurance is gaining in appeal to offset soaring healthcare costs. These costs must come out of pocket if you’re not prepared (insured). In many families, being “self-insured” is an intentional choice. Others find this insurance planning technique is key to managing the risk of estate assets being eroded by costly long-term medical care needs.

College Funding:  Americans are facing a mountain of debt with over $1.4 trillion in student loans. Why?  Because college is expensive! And, it’s getting more so every year. I know; with one kid in college in Hawaii and another getting an education abroad, it’s “heigh-ho, heigh-ho, it’s off to work I go.” Educational costs are rising at an alarming rate. The CollegeBoard in its recent, Trends in College Pricing, published many helpful stats and insights. It showed that between 2007-08 and 2017-18, in-state tuition and fees at public four-year institutions increased at an average rate of 3.2% per year beyond inflation. If you have kids or are planning on going back to college yourself, then you need to plan to finance it. Borrowing a little is okay, but student loans should not be the solution to planning for college costs.

Market Risk:  Simply put, this is the risk of losses in investments arising from movements in market prices. The foundation of my investment philosophy is soundly built on two convictions: Investing is a process, and two, a disciplined approach is required to manage risk and succeed in the investment process.  Hence, Investing is a process that must be based on a disciplined approach to manage risk.  The “risk” referred to here is market risk. “Black Monday,” the “Dot-com Bubble,” the 2008 “Worldwide Financial Crisis,”—these are just the biggest market crashes since 1987. As you know, there were many before that. And, you can bet there are more to come. In my 35 years I have learned all too well what market risk means, and how to handle it. Understanding how what’s happening in the world can impact your portfolio over the short, medium, and long terms, is critical to the success of your investing efforts and your overall financial plan. Risk management is present and visible daily with respect to market risk. Investing is difficult and often an emotional experience. Ultimately, emotions lead to poor decision making. The third of my top ten investment tenets is “Control Emotions.” Achieving long-term investing success, requires a high “EQ” (“Emotional Intelligence”). Greed and fear (and other emotions) have no place in the investment decision making process. Instead, sensible strategies intended to minimize market risk is essential to the financial planning process.

Death:  Does anyone like this subject?  Probably not. I don’t think even my estate planning friends who talk to people every day about planning for their eventual death “like” the topic. Your financial plan, though, cannot ignore your death. A proper plan takes advantage of techniques and strategies that can not only benefit you now, while alive, but provide you post mortem control over your estate and allow you to provide for your beneficiaries for generations to come. Estate tax just sounds better than what it really is. It’s really death tax. The estate tax you pay, those taxes paid based on and from what you have when you die, can be minimized… unless you don’t plan for your death in your financial plan. Estate planning professionals can help you get your affairs organized so that your financial plan is structured to pass to your beneficiaries seamlessly as you wish at your death as if you were still alive.

I hope part 2 of the financial planning process was helpful. Look for part three: “Investment Planning,” in ALIVE Magazine’s July issue.

Hello June! Each season, each year trends come and go. Sometimes they stick around for a couple years. Sometimes they’re new to the scene. This year there are definitely a couple to return that I am so excited about!

Straw is quintessential during the summer months and it’s back for more! Thank goodness… last year I missed the boat. This year I am hopping on. Has this ever happened to you? You love a trend, but decide to skip it, only to change your mind—and then it’s too late? The ship has sailed. This summer there are so many fun trends and I hope this helps you decide to take part. Whether you’re in it to save or ready to splurge it’s quite easy to find accommodating price points.

This summer we’re seeing paper bag waist shorts, platform sandals, sweater tanks, straw bags, and even straw earrings—all super great individual pieces that, if paired together, would make one awesome summer get up!

Sweater tanks are a great way to get some dimension from an otherwise simple tank top. It dresses things up! Love how the texture of the fabric enriches the feel of an outfit. Splurge and go for the $88 tank or save a bit and snag the $59 option.

Paperbag shorts are amazing! They have great coverage, a fun feminine ruffle waistline and come in varying colors, fabrics, and patterns. A classic denim is a great place to start if you’re on the fence about this trend. Pair with the sweater tank tucked in and you’ve got great start for a complete summer look. Snag the $179 pair or save and spend $60

Straw bags definitely get ya’ ready for those summer vibes! I love how a quick switch out of a bag can completely transform an outfit. It really is all about the finishing touches. While yes, this means investing in different purses; it doesn’t have to mean it breaks the bank. There are great options that start at reasonable prices. Splurge and buy the $189 option or save and purchase the $40 bag.

Let’s keep going with finishing touches. A pair of flip flops would be a good casual option for a summer look. The exact same outfit can be taken to the next level with a pair of platform sandals. These babies are hot, hot, hot this summer! Not only are they super cute; they’re super comfortable. These awesome shoes add height while maintaining comfort. Colors range from classic neutrals to bold bright hues and prints. Whatever your heart desires can pretty much be found. Splurge and snag a pair for $159 or save and go for the $49 pair.

The last summer trend we’re covering is straw statement earrings. They are the best neutral which makes for awesome versatility. Wear these pretties with a tank and shorts or opt for a dress and heels. The options are endless! You know you’ll get the best bang for your buck with a purchase like this. Opt to splurge and spend $44 or save and snag the $9 pair.

What are your thoughts? Ready to take part in the Summer trends? Stop by maccarose.com to share and shop these pieces.

Thanks for reading dear ones!

The farmers’ market is a hive of activity this month, brimming with truckloads of seasonal vegetables like early vine-ripened tomatoes, corn, and crunchy little cucumbers. There is a splendid variety of juicy stone fruits—most notably short-seasoned apricots and cherries—along with peaches, nectarines and plums. You’ll also see a plump profusion of cantaloupe and other fragrant melons, but it’s the kaleidoscope of jewel-like berries that usually stops us in our tracks…with locally-grown strawberries snagging the most attention.

It’s time to treat yourself and a few friends to that all-American favorite, strawberry shortcake. But forget those spongey little cakes sold at the supermarket; this recipe increases the decadence factor by layering the lusciousness between a tender chocolate biscuit.

This very special dessert comes together easily when you prepare the three simple components earlier in the day. It’s a show-stopper—and farm-fresh berries deserve no less!

STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKES

with Chocolate-Buttermilk Biscuits and Make-Ahead Whipped Cream

2 pint-size baskets farm-fresh strawberries, hulled, and halved or quartered if large

1 to 1 1/2 tablespoons granulated sugar, to taste

1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

1 cup heavy (whipping) cream

2 to 3 tablespoons confectioners’ (powdered) sugar, to taste, plus extra for garnish

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 cup crème fraiche or sour cream

4 Chocolate-Buttermilk Biscuits (recipe follows)

1. For the berries: In a large bowl, combine the strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Stir to mix, coarsely mashing about 1/4 of the berries with the back of a spoon. Let stand 15 minutes to dissolve the sugar.

• For the Make-Ahead Whipped Cream: In a large bowl, beat together the cream, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla with a hand-held electric mixer on Low speed until slightly thickened. Increase the speed to Medium-High and beat until fluffy, stopping just before the cream is firm enough to hold soft peaks. Beat in the crème fraîche. (If made in advance, cover and refrigerate for up to 1 day. Just before serving, whisk again briefly to aerate the mixture.)

• To assemble, just before serving use a serrated knife to carefully split the biscuits in half. Place bottoms on 4 dessert plates. Top each with a large spoonful of berries and a heaping 1/4 cup whipped cream. Cover with the biscuit tops. Dollop the remaining whipped cream over the shortcakes and top with the remaining berries. Dust with powdered sugar. Serve at once. Serves 4.

CHOCOLATE-BUTTERMILK BISCUITS

6 tablespoons buttermilk

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/4 cup unsweetened Dutch-process cocoa powder

1/4 cup granulated sugar, plus about 1 1/2 tablespoons for sprinkling

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt

4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut up

1/4 cup finely chopped or grated semisweet chocolate

1. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. Combine the buttermilk and vanilla in a measuring cup. In a food processor, combine the flour, cocoa, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, the baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Process briefly to blend. Add the butter. Process, pulsing the machine on and off, until the dough resembles coarse meal. With the machine running, add the buttermilk and vanilla mixture in a steady stream, processing just until incorporated. Add the chocolate and pulse 2 or 3 times to incorporate.

• Scrape the dough onto a lightly floured work surface. Knead a few times until smooth. Roll or pat out the dough 1-inch thick. Using a 2 1/2-inch biscuit cutter dipped in flour, cut out 4 biscuits.

• Arrange the biscuits 2 inches apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet. (If desired, use a dry pastry brush to remove excess flour from biscuits.) Sprinkle with the reserved sugar. Bake until the tops appear dry and spring back when lightly touched, about 15 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool. Serve slightly warm or at room temperature. Makes 4. These are best served the same day they are made.

Berry Good Things to Know

A shiny berry is a fresh berry. Once picked, strawberries lose their natural sheen in a matter of days.

Locally-grown berries are inevitably more flavorful and juicy than varieties grown to withstand shipping.

Fresh green caps, intense perfume, and vibrant, uniform color are other qualities to look for in strawberries. Avoid those “white shoulders” that mean the berries were picked before their prime. Also remember that bigger is not always better!

When stored properly, farm-fresh strawberries can last up to 1 week in the refrigerator. Here’s the secret: Line a plastic container with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture. Gently pile in the unwashed strawberries with their green caps intact. Top with another paper towel, seal with an airtight lid, and store in the lowest part of the refrigerator. 

Do not rinse strawberries or remove their green caps until just before using.  Rinsing berries removes their naturally protective outer layer; and their caps prevent water from soaking into the strawberries, diluting the flavor and altering their texture.

To clean strawberries, place in a colander or large sieve and rinse quickly under a gentle spray of cold water. Pat dry with towels; then remove the green caps, if desired.

To hull strawberries (i.e., remove the green caps), use the sharp tip of a paring knife; the pointed end of a swivel-bladed vegetable peeler; or a strawberry huller—an inexpensive tweezer-like gadget available at most cookware shops. This removes not only the leafy green cap, but also the tough little core beneath it.

For best flavor, eat strawberries at cool room temperature.

1 cup of halved raw strawberries weighs in at around 49 calories. They also contain 12 grams carbohydrate and 3 grams fiber, resulting in 9 grams of net carbs. Strawberries are a good source of vitamin C, and also contain potassium, iron, and folic acid.

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!

Tired of finding your mailbox, inbox, and voicemail full of unwanted credit card offers, insurance solicitations, and coupons and catalogs from retail companies? Investing just a few minutes of your time will allow you to “JUST SAY NO” to junk mail and pesky offers.

There is nothing worse than coming home from a long day, opening your mailbox, and having to spend time sorting, recycling and shredding loads of unsolicited offers. Taking the time to make a quick call, submit an online request, or mail a letter will not only significantly reduce the amount of time you spend sorting through the piles, but it will also reduce the temptation to spend and open new credit accounts. Here is the scoop.

Credit Card and Insurance Offers: Credit card and insurance companies purchase lists from the four Consumer Credit Reporting Companies (Equifax, Experian, Innovis, and TransUnion). These lists provide pertinent personal information about consumers which trigger the offers in your mailbox. However, under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, you have the option to “Opt-Out” and prevent Consumer Credit Reporting Companies from sharing your information for five years or permanently.

Simply phone 1-888-5-OPTOUT (1-888-567-8688) or visit www.optoutprescreen.com. You will be prompted to provide some personal information, including your home telephone number, name, address, and social security number. Having your name removed from credit card offers will remove the temptation to open new credit accounts and can help prevent identity theft. If you ever miss receiving these offers, you can “Opt-In” at any time by calling or visiting the website.

Junk Mail: The Direct Marketing Association has a mail preference service that allows you to reduce the amount of commercial advertising mail that you receive at home for five years. The quickest and most efficient way to remove your name from the “do not mail” list is to visit www.dmaconsumers.org. Click on the “Consumer Assistance” tab and then click on the “How to remove your name from mailing lists” tab. Fill out the required fields and pay the $5 fee (you can submit it online).

You can also print and mail the letter to the below address:

Direct Marketing Association, PO Box 643, Carmel, NY  10512

Please note, this service will not prevent companies that you do business with from mailing catalogs. For example, if you have a Macy’s card, Macy’s will continue to send catalogs on a regular basis. You will need to contact each retailer and request that they stop future mailings.

Email: If you provide your email address to any retailer you will get weekly or sometimes, daily emails from them prodding you with the latest seasonal items and sales. Stopping unwanted emails that come into your inbox will remove the temptation of clicking through, browsing, and then buying.

The Direct Marketing Association also has an Email Preference Service that allows you to opt-out of receiving unsolicited emails for five years. Visit www.dmaconsumers.org, click on the “Consumer Assistance” tab and then click on the “How to get your name off e-mail lists.” Or, you can unsubscribe to emails or report the emails as spam to reduce offers in your inbox.

Phone Offers: Another common tactic for soliciting consumers with tempting credit card offers are random calls on your cellular phone. Take the time to register your cellular phone number and your home phone number (if you still have one) by logging on to www.donotcall.gov. This is a free service that is offered by the Federal Trade Commission and helps reduce the number of calls.

Taking the time to “JUST SAY NO” and remove your personal information from these lists will significantly reduce the number of solicitations that you receive. It will also save you time, avoid the temptation to open costly new credit accounts, eliminate impulse buying and decrease the risk of identity theft. 

Jodee Brydges is the author of Digging Out: A Practical Guide to Getting Out of Debt and Paving a Path to a Secure Financial Future, available on Amazon.com.

“Even if you use only one good suggestion from this book (and this book is full of great ideas), it could save you thousands.” ~ Amazon 5-Star Review

For more information about Jodee, visit www.jodeebrydges.com.

I had a second home in Carmel for a while. For the locals there, Doris Day was a local too. That used to irritate me. Why? Because Carolyn Hastings had never even had a long distance sighting of the iconic Miss Day. Until, one day I had made a quick trip to the grocery store and as I was leaving, an old faded yellow Jeep Wagoneer came rumbling up and parked right by the front doors. A plainly dressed older heavyset, (yes, heavyset) woman hopped out and opened the back of the Jeep. A few minutes later a box boy, came out with a huge pallet of big bags, yup, dog food. I had finally gotten the Carmel owners reward: A Doris Day sighting! The box boy (I can’t believe we used to call them that), loaded the Jeep and away she went, home to her family. Did I ever see her again? Nope, but I didn’t need to; I was finally part of the “Carmel Insiders.”

We lost Doris Day a few days ago. I suppose we didn’t really lose her because I was at my local library yesterday, perusing the movie section as usual, and lo and behold, there she was in A Glass Bottom Boat. I snapped it up, checked it out and headed home to spend an evening with the girl next door, or so it seemed. I had forgotten how real she seemed whether playing a mermaid, a cowgirl or an interior designer. She always came off as just the girl next door.

Her career started as a Big Band singer. Then someone decided they needed an actress who could actually carry a tune, so she became an actress. She could do both and do them well. She made 39 films and spent five years as the star of, yes, The Doris Day Show on TV. Hundreds of her songs that most of you would remember, even if you didn’t remember who made them famous, were made a part of everyday life back in the 50s and 60s.

Doris was born, Doris Mary Anne von Kappelhoff in 1922—”Doris Day” to us and the rest of the world. She made movies that made people smile. She had charm, wit and spunk and her fans waited with baited-breath for her next new character; her next new film. I asked my brother and his wife what their favorite Doris movie is and they both immediately responded Calamity Jane. My brother is 80 and loves his westerns, of course, Doris as Calamity Jane would make him smile.

Several years ago a guy friend of mine and I had the privilege of spending a magical Valentine’s Day at the Paramount Theatre in Oakland. This magnificent old theater often shows Classic films. On this particular evening, the show was Pillow Talk with the legendary Rock Hudson and you guessed it, Doris Day. Rock and Doris, big screen, Valentine’s Day…unforgettable.

After some failed marriages and twenty years in Hollywood, Doris Mary Anne von Kappelhoff walked away. I take that back. Doris believed that we have seasons in our lives. You live them and move on. She had always been an animal lover, so in 1981, at forty-nine years old, she moved to Carmel, founded the Doris Day Animal Foundation and started a new season, “doing good” in the US and around the world. In 2004 President George W. Bush awarded her the Presidents Medal of Freedom.

At 97 years old, Doris Day, America’s Sweetheart, is gone, but certainly not forgotten. She inspired love, devotion and loyalty. Her countless fan websites are mourning for a woman who embodied more innocent times. Her family says, “There will be no funeral, memorial or grave marker.” Why?  Because she said so, she didn’t like death. But beyond a shadow of a doubt, we know she was here, a radiant icon of sunny, funny femininity. That was Doris Day.

Remember to look up at the stars and not down at your feet. ~ Stephen Hawking

Many people, from all walks of life, have illnesses, afflictions or handicaps that do not prevent them from achieving their goals and having successful careers. It is indeed inspiring that people with debilitating health problems can and do achieve greatness and overcome their adversities.

Many feel composers, musicians and music people in general, live in a different world than most of the population. Perhaps they think because musicians have a special talent or ability (some feel it is God-given) they are not like “main-stream” individuals. Regarding health issues, this is not the case at all.

Musicians and composers are merely a microcosm of society in general. They are subject to all the ailments that we mere mortals endure. Yes, some disorders are more common in musicians, but in general they suffer the same diseases and afflictions as the rest of the population.

Many composers and musicians, especially in years past, were basically unhealthy and prone to all kinds of physical and emotional stresses and debilitating illnesses. Given the heavy burden of coping with pain and distress, it is truly remarkable that they were able to create and compose great, magnificent music throughout their working careers. However, some afflictions developed near the end of their careers. This explains the volume of their work that was accomplished before their health problems became serious.

Health Problems: Some common physical problems musicians have are repetitive strain injuries; caused by doing the same physical movements repeatedly. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is one example. Tinnitus, and other hearing impairments, are common to musicians; probably caused by the constant level of sound they experience.

Respiratory disorders and mouth and teeth aliments are often present in wind instrument players; partially due to improper cleaning of the mouthpiece and the instrument. Musculoskeletal disorders and skin problems, among others, may contribute to career-ending disabilities. Overuse Syndrome may include Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMJ), Bursitis, and Tendonitis. These can be caused by heavy practice, incorrect posture and lack of rest.

A study by R. Lucia entitled, Effects of Playing a Musical Wind Instrument in Asthmatic Teenagers reported that “Playing a wind instrument has the potential of being a long-term therapeutic agent for asthmatics.”

Brass instrument musicians often experience Tinnitus, ear aches, malocclusion, unrestful sleep, emotional and even psychic disorders. Percussion players are exposed to loud sounds that often leads to hearing loss.

 Prevention of these disorders can be accomplished by a comprehensive education plan reducing or eliminating the negative effects of these elements. If not checked they could lead to a shortened career or even worse, a shortened life!

Contemporary Musicians/Composers with Disabilities

Some blind musicians include Ray Charles, pianist/singer who became blind by age 7; Stevie  Wonder, pianist/singer was born blind; George Shearing, Jazz pianist, was born blind; Jose Feliciano, singer/guitarist was born blind; Sammy Davis Jr. singer/dancer/instrumentalist, became blind in one eye due to a car accident; and Andrea Bocelli, singer/song writer, became blind at age 12 due to an eye injury accident. Hearing impaired singers include Johnnie Ray; Michael Bolton, and Brian Wilson of the Beach Boys, to name just a few. Mel Tillis, the country music legend, stuttered; singer, Rosemary Clooney was bi-polar, and Cher is dyslexic. Violinist Izhak Perlman had polio.

Musicians/Composers from the Past

The deaths of J.S. Bach and George F. Handel drew the Baroque Period to a tumultuous close. Unfortunately, these two giants both went blind in their 60’s, late in their careers.         Blair Sanderson, wrote “The most famous disability in music history was the deafness of Ludwig Van Beethoven.” How devastating can it be for a musician to be deaf? Beethoven’s deafness started around 1796 and by 1824 he was totally deaf. He wrote the monumental 9th Symphony while deaf. Cause of his deafness was believed to be, his inner ears were malformed with lesions; of course, that is speculation. 

Beethoven said, “Yet it was impossible for me to say to people, speak louder, shout! for I am deaf! Oh, how could I possibly admit an infirmity, in the one sense, which ought to be more perfect in me than others, a sense which I possessed in the highest perfection, a perfection such as few in my profession enjoy or ever have enjoyed.”

Wolfgang Mozart contracted Rheumatic Fever in childhood. This may have contributed to illnesses, high blood pressure and stress. Two doctors may have contributed to his earl demise by blood-letting; a common practice in the 18^th century. The genius Mozart died at the age of 35. He still composed over 600 works, many while he was in ill health. Just think what his contributions would have been if he had lived a normal lifespan.

Depression

Among famous composers that suffered from this ailment were: Robert Schumann; Piotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky; Sergei Rachmaninov; Hector Berlioz; Mikhail Glinka; Anton Bruckner and Charles Ives. Many of these composers, although depressed, were able to continue in their careers successfully.

 Even the most invincible composers and musicians are subject to the vicissitude’s trials and tribulations of the common man. These men and others like them are examples of triumphs over their adversities.

Although he was not a musician, Stephen Hawking is an outstanding example of overcoming an incredible disability. Aworld-famous British physicist, he was one of the most beloved scientists in this generation.  Hawking was diagnosed with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease) at the age of 21. He became completely paralyzed and was confined to a motorized wheelchair. Hawking defied ALS for five decades before he died in 2018 at the age of 76. Normally, ALS takes most people’s life in two to three years. Even though his body was completely paralyzed, and the disease took away his voice; that did nothing to curb his contribution to science. He said, “If you are disabled, it is probably not your fault, but it is no good blaming the world or expecting it to take pity on you. One has to have a positive attitude and must make the best of the situation that one finds oneself in if one is physically disabled. One cannot afford to be psychologically disabled as well. However difficult life may seem, there is always something you can do and succeed at.”

Hopefully, his advice will be uplifting to all.

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

It’s Back and its Sharp!

History lesson – The Ford Ranger was first sold back in 1983 and had a 35-year run before being retired in the United States. It still survived in markets in other countries but not here at home – until its rebirth this year. What has been resurrected is a greatly-improved midsize pickup that has little relationship with its past brother. Truck lovers have been asking for and looking forward to its long-awaited return.

The all-new 2019 Ford Ranger is recognizable as the Ranger, yet modernized, bold, larger, and strikingly masculine. What it is not is a miniature version of the F-150, a cheap pickup, or a copy of its competitors. It is designed to stand out as a rugged and capable pickup, loaded with power and techy features.

Pricing and Trims
The 2019 Ford Ranger is available in two body styles: SuperCab and SuperCrew. Both are obtainable in three trim levels:XL, XLT, and Lariat. This article focuses on my test vehicle which was the SuperCrew and is priced as follows: XL 2WD ($27,615) and 4WD ($31,436), XLT2WD ($31,210) and 4WD ($35,210), and Lariat2WD ($35,480) and 4WD ($39,480).

What’s new for 2019?
In comparison to its previous model back in 2011 when the Ranger languished as a fleet vehicle during its final years, well…how about everything? The old Ranger felt like a light version of a pickup whereas the all-new 2019 Ranger feels competitive to a full-size pickup in power, packaging, and valiant design. 

Interior Highpoints
The 2019 Ranger’s cabin is handsome and organized with properly-placed driver-assist technologies to enable easier driving both on and off-road. Technology starts with a touch screen for available SYNC® 3, while a single or dual LCD-productivity screen is available for real-time vehicle, navigation and audio information. I should share that my test vehicle was the top of the line Lariat 4×4. The seats in my Ranger were dual-bucket heated seats with leather trim. The Base XL and XLT trims are equipped with a small 4.2-inch radio screen whereas the Lariat has an 8-inch touch screen that is optional on the XLT. Interior color options are black and tan. The second-row seats had adequate room with two USB outlets and an AC 110V with our Lariat packaging. 

Exterior Highlights
The Ranger body has an athletic appearance and features a front facia similar to the Ford Edge crossover that lie in-between headlights lined with LED lights. The dual color bumper adds to the graphic design of the frontend. The Ranger sits high with a 5-foot bed and front-hinged rear doors. The bed has six interior tie-downs and a spray-in bedliner is available as an option. The doors are carved with a deep cut that creates a visual gift and unique expression.   

Performance Specs
The 2019 Ford Ranger is anchored by a high-strength steel frame and powered by a 2.3-liter EcoBoost® that generates the power of a 6-cylinder with 270 horsepower and is paired to an efficient 10-speed automatic transmission. The payload tops out at 1,560 lbs. for the SuperCrew and has a maximum towing capacity of 7,500 lbs., which Ford claims is the best-in-class. The 2019 Ranger is comfortable and maneuverable with an impressive turning radius and responsive steering.

Cool Features:

• Digital Dash
• Multiple USB outlets
• Ford Co-Pilot-360™ – Lane-Keeping System, Auto High Beams, Blind Spot Info System, Pre-Collision Assist, and Cross-Traffic Alert
• Auto Start-Stop Technology
  

Safety & Integrity
The 2019 Ford Ranger safety features include Ford Co-Pilot-360™ – Lane-Keeping System, Auto High Beams, Blind Spot Info System, Pre-collision Assist, and Cross-Traffic Alert, Perimeter Anti-theft Alarm, Rear View Camera, Keyless Entry Keypad, Airbags: Driver and Passenger Front Airbags, Safety Canopy® side-curtain airbags, Reflector, Wiper-Activated Headlamps, and Forward Collision Warning, Dynamic Brake Support. Some items are optional for a fee.

In Summary

The 2019 Ford Ranger SuperCrew is a newly-enhanced version of the older brother with a new powerful and attractive presence. You have the power of 6-cylinders with the fuel economy of a 4- cylinder. The interior is well-presented and engaged. The Ranger is poised to be an essential part of Ford’s truck growth here and abroad. If you are looking for a midsize pickup, the Ranger could meet all of your requirements. Check it out!

Specifications.

2019 Ford Ranger Lariat SuperCrew 4WD

Base price:                  $38,385 as driven:$44,855 (including destination & optional features)

Engine:                       2.3-Liter EcoBoost Turbo 4-cylinder

Horsepower:              270 hp@ 5500 RPM

Torque:                      310 lb.-ft.@ 3000 RPM

Transmission:            10-speed automatic transmission

Drive:                          Four-Wheel Drive

Seating:                       5-passenger

Cargo space:              43.3 to 51.8 cubic feet

Curb weight:             4354pounds 

EPA mileage:            City 21/Hwy 26/Comb 23 MPG

Max Towing:             7500 lb.

Fuel Capacity:           18 gallons

Wheel Base:               126.8 inches

Warranty:                  3 years/36,000-miles

Also Consider:          Chevrolet Colorado, Nissan Frontier, and Toyota Tacoma

There are all kinds of story tellers in the world. The great ones tell their stories from the heart, they make them personal and meaningful. Marlene Rodriguez, the first woman to join the Military Order of the Purple Heart, has a story to tell—a story about perseverance and dedication. A story with a happy ending.

Marlene completed three combat duty deployments to Iraq as a heavy-wheeled vehicle operator.  During her first deployment, the vehicle she was driving took a direct hit from an improvised explosive device (IED).  She was knocked unconscious and suffered a traumatic brain injury (TBI).  Marlene’s passenger died and she struggled with survivor’s guilt.  On her third deployment to Iraq, Marlene’s vehicle again took a direct hit by an IED.  This time she was left with shrapnel wounds throughout her body and suffered another TBI, which left her with a severe seizure disorder.  Marlene spent over two years in the hospital recovering from her injuries and trying to get her seizures under control. The seizure disorder has been very challenging for her, but she has learned that staying active and sticking to a healthy diet help. That’s the idea that ignited Marlene’s passion for helping other veterans through recreation.

Sentinels of Freedom (SOF) assisted Marlene while she faced the hardships of her transition, providing financial and personal support and mentoring. “Since being a part of SOF, I was able to study more and stay much more focused without worrying about how I’m going to get through the months financially. Thank you SOF for the opportunity and the support,” Marlene gratefully acknowledges.

She used her resources to overcome the memorization issues the TBI caused. Despite the odds stacked against her, she completed her associate’s degree from Northwest Vista College and has just recently completed her bachelor’s degree in recreational administration from Texas State University.

Congratulations Marlene. It is an honor to have been a part of your journey. Your SOF family is so very proud of you. 

If you would like to help other severely wounded veteran’s like Marlene, please support their dreams and goals by making a donation through sentinelsoffreedom.org today.

A Red Crescent moon is a rare occasion that many people miss when it occurs. For others, it is something they are faced with on a daily basis who must adjust accordingly; these are the individuals diagnosed with Sickle Cell Disease.   

Sickle Cell Disease is a heredity group of disorders that causes red blood cells, which carry oxygen through the body, to become misshapen and break down. It causes normal, circular-shaped red blood cells to take on the shape similar to a Red Crescent moon. Due to this shape, theses cell can get stuck in the small blood vessels, which can slow or block blood flow and oxygen to parts of the body. Some adolescents and adults with Sickle Cell have chronic pain, bone and joint damage, ulcers, and even strokes.

One such patient at Children’s Hospital of Oakland named Khaleiya was diagnosed with sickle cell at two weeks old.  Now, at age 11, this beautiful young girl’s life consists of regular hospital visits that include blood transfusions, multiple medications, and pain-crisis therapy.  Due to many days of not being able to attend school, Khaleiya is homeschooled and is blessed with emotional support from her mother, Jennifer, and 14-year-old sister, Haloniee. 

Inspired by her daughter’s strength through the medical trials, Jennifer decided early on that, “My daughter may have Sickle Cell but Sickle Cell does not have my daughter,” and contacted Children’s Hospital in Oakland. It was through their Children’s Network Foundation that her passion for awareness took sail. Her daughter, Khaleiya, was featured in educational videos and pamphlets along with her mother’s public interviews with the local radio stations such as KBLX.

It was through her tenacious networking that she met Mickel London back in 2014.  As a marketing manager during that time for Costco in Concord, California, Mickel added his creative talents to fundraising, beginning music events to raise funds for Sickle Cell research. Appropriately titled Music Medicine, the event has included performances by local and well-known musicians such as American Idol’s Latoya London. This year Music Medicine will bring Maxine Jones from EnVogue to the stage. 

Just like the notes coming together to provide joy, so did Mickel and Khaleiya’s family join forces to provide awareness along with hope for so many children afflicted with this disease. 

Music Medicine has raised thousands of dollars for Children’s Hospital of Oakland over the past ten years with 100% of the funds raised being donated to the hospital to help provide care for patients. As a non-profit, the U.C.S.F. Benioff Children’s Hospitals provide medical care to their young patients, whether they have insurance or not. The coping and healing that occurs 24/7 within the walls stems from a deep love for the many little ones who face significant medical challenges.  

To get to know Khaleiya, her family and the many passionate advocates such as Mickel, who strive to help ease at least some of the spiritual and emotional pain, was and is, an honor. They are part of a village of strength, drive, and unbreakable love, delivering a much-needed kind of medicine to those who need it most.  

Khaleiya advises other children diagnosed with Sickle Cell to, “Pray to Jesus; to stay strong and know you’re not alone.” It is advice that resonates for every newborn, child and adult.  Through the Music Medicine event happening on June 29^th, her advice will echo along with the songs dedicated to an inspiring group of people, who, despite the forces that be, will always reach for the moon that shines the brightest in the darkness. 

For more information about Sickle Cell Awareness and UCSF St. Benioff Children’s Hospitals, visit https://give.ucsfbenioffchildrens.org

To purchase tickets for the 10^th Annual Music Medicine on June 29^th at Empress Theatre in Vallejo, California, visit www.EmpressTheatre.Org

Everything’s coming up bubbles in Los Angeles! Once again this year, The City of Angels welcomed Effervescence LA, the USA’s premier Champagne and Sparkling Wine event. The spirited three-day weekend, which took place on May 3, 4, and 5, and was presented in collaboration with Minds Matter of Los Angeles (MMLA), was a comprehensive epicurean event centered on the glory of French champagne. 

The three-day affair included an incredible walk-around champagne tasting with the best bubbles of France’s glorious Champagne region, incredibly decadent gourmet meals prepared by acclaimed chefs, private tastings, master classes with world-renowned experts, and finally, to finish, an elegant champagne brunch. It was truly epic. Effervescence is proud to be the “premier American showcase for the very finest in champagne and sparkling wines.”

The celebration was launched with the Krug Collectors Dinner at 71 Above in Downtown LA. As Krug is one of the most prestigious Champagne houses in France, the Krug Collector’s Dinner was an exclusive event featuring some of the very finest and most expensive champagnes in the world. Diners savored very rare bottles and late disgorged champagnes—indeed the best of the best!

Saturday’s long-awaited Grand Champagne Tasting at The Line Hotel Los Angeles in trendy Koreatown, was a fabulous affair; a grand tasting tour of the most celebrated wine region on earth. The most exciting wines of France’s Champagne region were represented in all their shimmering glory. Revelers chatted with French winemakers and brand ambassadors in a superb afternoon of merry-making featuring champagnes from exquisite small producers and mid-size champagne houses, as well as the legendary giants of Champagne. Among the many prestigious houses represented were Dom Perignon, Krug, Ruinart, Piper-Heidsieck, and Bollinger.

In between sips of champagne, guests nibbled on cracked crab legs and jumbo shrimp cocktail, potato puffs with truffle cream, hot salty pommes frites, and coddled eggs with truffle foam. The iced fresh oysters on the half shell were a huge crowd-pleaser. Their briny goodness was a decadent and perfect pairing with Champagne!

The Master Classes were fascinating for both those familiar with the science of champagne and those who merely love to sip.  Classes included a Krug tasting of six consecutive editions of Krug Grande Cuvee as well as a tasting of the impeccable Krug Vintage 2004, a compare and contrast study of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay via Champagne Bollinger and Champagne Ayala, and “The Ultimate Tasting Experience with Fromages de France,” led by world-renowned French cheese monger, Francois Robin. Each was the opportunity to be both educated and indulgent.

At the popular Fromages Masterclass, eager participants enjoyed six vastly different and divinely delicious French cheeses, paired with six beautiful Champagnes. The cheeses included the melt-in-your-mouth creamy Brillat-Savarin, the chewy and almost chocolate or toffee-like orange-hued Mimolette, and the firm Comte, laden with tiny crystals of savory amino acids. The champagnes included the biodynamically produced Suenen Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut, the slightly smoky Hure Freres “4 Elements” Chardonnay 2013 Extra Brut, and the mother/daughter produced elegant Marion-Bosser 2012 Premier Cru Brut. 

The Saturday evening Gala Dinner was prepared by celebrated chefs Nancy Silverton, Dominique Crenn, and Suzanne Tracht at the popular Jar Restaurant, a modern American chophouse. Abundant champagne flowed as guests enjoyed the fine cuisine and the joyful spirit of the evening.

The weekend wrapped up Sunday morning with great cheer at the More Bubbles Brunch at festive and colorful Hedley & Bennett. The sound of champagne corks popping filled the air as the three-day extravaganza came to a close. Indeed, for champagne lovers, this was all a little piece of paradise.

If you are a lover of Champagne and sparkling wine, look for Effervescence in your city next year. Connect with the best of the bubbles for more information and updates at www.effervescenceLA.com. You won’t want to miss one moment of this action-packed weekend dedicated solely to the celebration of bubbles.

May all your happy moments be joyous, and all your pain, Champagne….

Cheers!