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It is more common than not that my patients believe that joint pain is an inevitable sign of aging and arthritis is to be expected as we grow older. As we experience pain and swelling in our fingers, wrists, knees or any joint, it’s easy to jump to the conclusion that our joints are “wearing down” from use, like car parts. But our bodies are not made up of mechanical pieces with built-in obsolescence; they are made up of living cells that can actually strengthen and grow when fully nourished and used properly. Instead, joint pain is most often a sign of chronic inflammation. When a person learns to solve these underlying problems, most find their joint pain and stiffness significantly improve, or disappear altogether.

How does chronic inflammation lead to pain?
The healthy immune system triggers the inflammatory response to deal with sporadic threats like injury or infection. In a healthy individual the inflammatory response is quick to resolve, it comes on then subsides. But in many, the inflammatory response is constantly on a low “simmer.” This chronic, low-grade inflammation prevents cell regeneration and repair and gradually tears down tissues — including those in your joints.

Some causes of chronic inflammation:
Poor Dietary Habits and Food Allergies: Chronic inflammation can be caused by a diet that’s too high in refined carbohydrates and sugars and too low in essential fatty acids. A high-carb diet promotes prolonged high levels of insulin, which disrupts cellular metabolism and spreads inflammation. Undiagnosed food allergies or sensitivities also contribute to inflammation when those foods are eaten.

Vitamin and Mineral deficiencies: Overwhelming scientific evidence confirms that vitamin deficiencies are associated with disease processes and the overall condition of one’s health. Vitamin, mineral and antioxidant deficiencies have been shown to suppress immune function and contribute to chronic degenerative processes such as chronic inflammation, arthritis, cancer, Alzheimer’s, cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Research shows that 50% of people taking multivitamins are still nutritionally deficient.

Poor Digestion: Stress, poor food quality, drug and antibiotic use, break down the digestive barrier allowing large particles of undigested matter to seep into the blood stream causing a cascade of inflammation resulting in pain and allergies.

Toxic Lifestyle Habits: Smoking, excessive drug and alcohol consumption feed the inflammatory response by placing the body in a state of stress due to chronic toxic overload.

Psychological Stress: Cortisol, the hormone released in response to stress, works as an inflammatory agent. Sustained stress — the kind most of us experience — can cause inflammation to spread like wildfire.

The natural approach to joint pain
Taking medications for pain is not a long term solution. At Align Healing Center we specialize in combining medical science with natural therapies allowing your body to heal from the inside out. Finding the solution to your joint pain may seem like a daunting task, don’t go it alone.

We will work with you to create the proper program you need to begin to reclaim a pain free life.

We’ve had great success helping people solve the causes of their pain. If you suffer from chronic pain it is worth your while to spend some time figuring out which of any number of factors are contributing to it — and which combination of therapies will help heal it.

What patients are saying

I’ve had on-going back and spine issues and have been unable to get any relief. I’ve seen orthopedic surgeons and neurologists and have come away from those doctors frustrated, confused and still hurting. Since seeing Dr. Maimone, I am regaining my health, spirit and confidence. Dr. Maimone has helped me regain my strength and freedom again. Pat W. Alamo

Dr. Niele Maimone, DC owner Align Healing Center in Danville, CA has been active in natural health & wellness since 1999. For more information or to set up a consult call 925.362.8283 or visit alignhealingcenter.com.

I used to think the word “zucchini” was fun to say until I learned its Spanish equivalent, “calabacitas.” The very sound of it (calla-ba-SEE-tas!) makes me want to grab my maracas and clench a rose between my teeth.
Although it literally translates to “little squash,” calabacitas is mostly used to describe a traditional Southwestern vegetable mélange starringnone other than the humble squash, with other seasonal veggies like corn and peppers featured in supporting roles.A sure-fire hit.

This month Francophiles may be consumed with making ratatouille, that classic ode to late summer, but quick-cooking calabacitas also deserves a place in yourCalifornia kitchen.
Over the past few months I’ve taught a series of cooking classes for kids around the country, and I must say I’ve converted a significant number of young veggie-phobes with this simple dish. The appeal may begin tentatively with its lyrical name, but the uncomplicated, fresh taste of summer always seals the deal.

September is a glorious month at the farmers’ market, with plenty to stir the senses. There are great deals on end-of-season vegetables and fruits at the peak of perfection—a veritable double-feature with a bonus sneak-preview of fall’s coming attractions.

• This is a great all-round veggie/side dish, but don’t overlook its potential as a filling for quesadillas or omelets—all by itself, or paired with your favorite cheese.Monterey jack (with or without hot peppers), queso fresco, and California goat cheese are all good choices.
• Some cooks add a smattering of diced tomatoes, minced garlic, ground cumin, chopped oregano, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice to the mix.
• To transform calabacitas into a more substantial meal, stir in cooked black beans, rice, or bite-size bits of grilled chicken, beef, or pork. Serve with a big green salad, a bowl of homemade salsa, and a stack of warm tortillas.
• If you feel the urge to garnish, coarsely chopped cilantro and/or green onions should do the trick.

Plain or fancy, calabacitas is always muy bueno.

Calabacitas

• 2 ears fresh corn, husks and silk discarded
• 2 zucchini, sliced
• 2 yellow crookneck or other summer squash, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, seeded and cut into 1/2-inch squares
• 1 poblano* or Anaheim chile pepper, seeded and cut into 1/2-inch squares
• 2 tablespoons California olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• Salt and freshly ground pepper

1. Cut off the stem end from one ear of corn. Hold it upright, stem-end firmly planted in the bottom of a large bowl or on a rimmed baking sheet. Use a large sharp knife to cut downward all around the cob to remove the kernels; then repeat the process, this time pressing the dull side of the knife downward around the cob to release its milky juices. (The bowl will capture any flying kernels, and contain the juices.) Discard the cob and repeat with the remaining ear of corn.
2. In a large bowl, combine the corn and its juices, the zucchini, yellow squash, bell pepper, and chile pepper. Toss gently to mix.
3. Warm a wok or large skillet over medium heat. Drizzle in 1 tablespoon of the oil, swirling the pan to coat. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened but not browned, 5 to 7 minutes. Transfer the onion to a large serving bowl and keep warm.
4. Increase the heat to medium-high and drizzle in the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Working in batches as needed, add thevegetable mixture and cook without crowding, stirring and tossing, 3 to 5 minutes, or until crisp-tender. Seasonlightly with salt and pepper and add to the cooked onions. Repeat cooking the remaining vegetables in the same manner. Gently toss all the cooked vegetables with the onion and serve at once. Makes 4 to 6 servings.

*Poblano chiles are sometimes called pasilla chiles
The Danville Certified Farmers’ Market, located at Railroad and 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.com.

Calling all Cooks!
Looking to jazz up your recipe repertoire for the holidays? Check out Peggy Fallon’s “Elegant Holiday Appetizers” class at Draeger’s Blackhawk store Wednesday evening, October 26. For registration information, go to www.draegerscookingschool.com or call 1-800-642-9463.

He may not be A&E’s Billy the Exterminator decked out in black leathers laced with studded spikes from head to toe, but Jeff Anderson, owner of San Francisco and Oakland’s Critter Control, does pretty much the same thing—he solves peoples’ issues with uninvited guests called critters.

His daily work orders involves critters such as cute woodchucks, squirrels, raccoons, moles, possums, bats and birds to creepy snakes and alligators; just not insects. Those tormented by wasp and ants – maybe call The Orkin Man, or some other pest control service.

Owner of the Oakland franchise since 1996 and the San Francisco location for the last two years, Anderson’s team includes his daughter Jaime and her husband Dale Eagles. Together they service homeowners, industrial and commercial clients and business owners throughout Alameda, Contra Costa, San Francisco and Marin counties.

A retired IBM employee, Anderson decided to direct his second career towards the outdoors with something that involved animals. “I grew up in Minnesota and as a youngster I trapped mink. It was back in the 50’s,” said Anderson.

Instead of trapping for pleasure, his family protects people, property and wildlife by trapping for safety and peace-of-mind. Teaching is also part of their job. “Part of our inspection is not only finding out what type of animal it is, but also making habitat modifications so they won’t have the problem again. We educate our clients on what they need to do in order to keep the critter from coming back.”

Featured on Discovery Channel’s MythBusters a couple of times, Anderson talked about how to remove, as-best-as-possible, the liquid arsenic sprays of a skunk. “I was once sprayed in my face by a skunk. I used a mixture of hydrogen peroxide, baking soda and liquid dish soap to neutralize the smell,” said Anderson.

Critter Control, the franchise, began in Detroit, Michigan in the 80’s, and today has over 100 offices throughout the United States and in Canada. Owner-operators must have special licenses to do their job. Anderson has a license with the Department of Fish and Game (needed for trapping wildlife), a pest control license and also a contractor’s license, since some of his work involves fixing property damage.

On call 24/7, 365 days a year, Anderson says at times it’s like being a private investigator. “You have to be like a detective because you have to figure out what is going on, what type of animal it is, what damage they’ve done and how to fix it,” he said. Sometimes you have a bad smell and it turns out to be a plumbing issue.”

While the Department of Fish and Game does not allow wildlife relocation (unless the animal is released on the same property), sometimes Anderson’s job is not a happy one, when he has to put the animal to sleep. His best tip for homeowners involves prevention. “Don’t leave any pet food out at night for your cats and dogs and don’t feed wildlife,” said Anderson, who has given educational talks at schools. “While you may enjoy that particular animal, your neighbors may not.”

He also encourages his clients to inspect their attics and foundations, because rodents view cracks and crevices like celebrities view red carpet galas. “They use the storm sewers as highways; they rip up yards and vents and nest in attics and under houses,” said Anderson.

Costs for Anderson’s services vary greatly depending on the size of the home or business and the type of problem. Anderson’s scariest moment was when he came face-to-face with a rattle snake.
“I pulled a rattle snake out of a coke machine,” he said. “But to this day, I have not been bit by one yet!”

For more information, visit their website at www.crittercontrol.com.

Return to The Golden Era

When was the last time you experienced the thrill of going to the movies in a real movie theatre? I don’t mean one of those factory cut-out, black box rooms where you can hear the sound of the other four films showing on either side of, above and below you—I mean a real movie theatre.

I admit I sound like a bit of a throwback, but my fondest memories of seeing movies was when I was a kid, attending Saturday matinees at one of the four movie theatres in our area; the El Rey in Walnut Creek, the Park in Lafayette, the Rheem in Moraga or the Orinda Theatre in, you guessed it… Orinda. Of the four, the classiest, most elegant was the Orinda Theatre.

Do you remember what it was like to see a film in one of those great movie houses built during the “Golden Era” of Movies? Or, perhaps you’re too young to have had the opportunity to enjoy the experience. Whatever the case, I have great news—the experience is still very much ALIVE, at the Orinda Theatre.

Even if you’ve never been inside, you’ve certainly passed it, probably hundreds of times, traveling on highway 24 past the town of Orinda. The Orinda Theatre’s neon sign stand as a familiar landmark by day and a beacon by night.

The theatre opened on Dec 27th, 1941, reportedly with a double bill of The Maltese Falcon and Tarzan’s Secret Treasure. On and off since the 1970s the theatre has faced a number of challenges. It was closed for many years but re-opened in 1989. Today, with numerous multiplex cinemas operating in our region the theatre is again in a struggle for survival.

In 2004, a group of dedicated, visionary local citizens formed a non-profit foundation called the Lamorinda Film and Entertainment Foundation (LFEF), which works to keep the theatre in operation. Recently, I was approached by one of the founding members of the foundation, Efi Lubliner, who asked if ALIVE Magazine would be the first “official” sponsor of the LFEF. Thinking of the wonderful experience that is the Orinda Theatre, I enthusiastically said, “yes!” A driving force for the LFEF, Efi, along with his wife, Shira, has come up with a creative way to attract more business to the theatre—they’re bringing in first rate, foreign films for exclusive screenings, every month. This month’s offering is a wonderful Czech film entitled, Autumn Spring (pg 23 & back cover).

So, roll back the clock to that Golden Era. Visit the Orinda Theatre, and treat yourself to a real movie experience.

Each month, ALIVE will review the next LFEF film offering. The coming film trailer is available on or website at aliveeastbay.com. For more information about the LFEF, go to lfef.org.

Is your child in a school music program? If he or she is, parents and students alike know the value, enjoyment and learning they are experiencing in their school years.

If your son or daughter hasn’t thought about taking a music class why don’t you bring up the subject and investigate the possibilities and rewards available to them at their school. It is important to make decisions about what music courses and electives to take.

Benefits of School Music
Research studies that have been replicated many times over the years always come to the same conclusions: Students that take music courses in school do significantly better in other academic courses than students who do not take music classes. This is an undisputed fact that parents should not ignore.

There is a myriad of positive benefits that music students enjoy as a result of being part of a school music program. One of the more obvious is learning to play a musical instrument. The vocal student learns how to use the voice to develop the maximum potential possible for solo or ensemble singing.

A key benefit of school music programs is learning musicianship. The student learns to practice and rehearse to achieve their potential by studying the various musical periods and styles and gaining the experience it takes to produce a superior performance.

Team playing, as in sports, is part of the music discipline. The student learns how to be a member of an ensemble and what it means to contribute to the group effort of making music together. They learn self-discipline and how to use time wisely in terms of individual practice and their contribution to the ensemble.

Leadership experiences abound in school music groups. Elected or appointed positions such as: drum major; student director; manager; secretary; treasurer; music librarian; uniform manager; equipment and instrument manager and public relations director teach leadership skills.

Socialization is an important aspect of any well-rounded education. Students immediately have a ready-made group of friends with many common interests and abilities. Lifelong friendships are a common outcome in music groups.

Elementary School
“Students who study music have better discipline, focus and concentration,” said Karla Angle, elementary school music specialist and principle flute in the Danville Community Band (DCB). Music courses offered in elementary schools include general music; fourth and fifth grade band; beginning and advanced strings; fourth and fifth grade chorus; third grade recorders and third, fourth and fifth grade chimes. For many years, Angle has observed the benefits of studying music in schools. “I have seen individuals blossom and grow not only musically but as a “whole person,” said Angle.

Middle School
“Learning music builds camaraderie, team-spirit, responsibility and dedication as well as learning life-skills,” said Jeanette Brown, middle school instrumental music teacher and clarinetist in the DCB. She wants the kids to have fun while they learn and not make music a stressful exercise. Middle schools offer classroom music for sixth, seventh and eighth grades; bands; jazz ensemble; strings and chorus. Brown’s father, an accomplished “Dixieland” clarinetist, has been instrumental in her music teaching career choice.

High School
“School music develops values used in school and in life,” said Teri Musiel, instrumental music director at the “state-of-the-art” Dougherty Valley High School in San Ramon. Musiel plays trumpet and percussion and is assistant director of the DCB. Courses offered at the high school level are: three levels of concert band; jazz band; orchestra; several choruses: chamber singers and advanced placement theory.

“Teaching music is what I really like to do – and I get paid for it,” said Musiel.

Being a member of a musical ensemble can be one of life’s enduring and meaningful adventures. Learning and playing music is an experience in self-worth, self-discipline and gives the student the ability to be a real team player.

Outside of school, students and adults may further their music experience playing in community bands like the DCB, playing in orchestras or singing in community groups. Music can be a wonderful life-time endeavor – don’t let your kids miss out!

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.

Life has a biological way of giving you do-overs. Like this summer when I was asked to be an environmental science camp counselor. I immediately asked if I qualified since I just about failed biology, chemistry and physiology in high school over 30 years ago. Don’t get me wrong. I loved those courses and loved my teachers, Mr. Cornejos and Mr. Bandar even more; I just didn’t test well, and okay, didn’t study well either. What matters now is I’m back in the biological game.

The camp leader told me my lack of science skills would not be a problem, since the kids would do most of the work and I would be more like a facilitator or something real important like that.

I said yes to the job and to my surprise, I survived the week without burning sulfur through the floor; didn’t have to take any tests – well, except for nitrate, pH, turbidity and sulfide in water samples, and best of all, I didn’t have to work with the chemical Phenolphthalein, otherwise known as C20H14O4 – even though the haunting high school memories of chem lab would find me drifting at times.

No, see environmental science focused primarily on the environment and how we humans are messing it up big time, scientifically-speaking. I learned that all of the plastics we’ve made are still present on planet earth in some form or another, living happily in landfills and at the bottom of oceans (basically everywhere) and won’t decompose in our lifetime.

I learned that we are 100% dependent on our beautiful Delta for our water source and that Southern California wants it too. And most importantly, that the Delta is considered to be the most invaded estuaries in the world! I had no idea that more than 250 alien aquatic and plant species have invaded the Delta and at least 185 of these species have gained a foothold and are currently inhabiting (and altering) the Delta’s ecosystem. Bad, bad water hyacinth – I don’t care how pretty you look. I also learned (on the first day mind you) to do a headcount of all those (including teachers) who ride the bus back home, instead of leaving someone behind to fend for transportation on their own.

The five-day camp was held at California State University East Bay’s Concord site. During the week we took mini field trips to Dow Chemical’s 450-acre wetland in Pittsburg, Ralph D. Bollman Water Treatment Plant in Concord, and Delta Diablo Sanitation District in Antioch – a somewhat “crappy” job, but someone has to do it, right?

I should also mention that this day camp, in conjunction with Contra Costa Economic Partnership, was largely sponsored by Chevron, who, by the way, is making incredible efforts to develop efficient facility projects that reduce energy costs, benefit the environment and ensure clean, reliable power for education, government and businesses. And no, they did not pay me for this plug.

Also as a camp counselor, I was versed in reinforcing 10 work-ready essential skills with the students in order to promote such job-qualities as professionalism and ethics, creativity and innovation, collaboration and communication, and more.

I thought I did a pretty good job of that all week long, sans day one when I forgot about the teacher who needed to ride the bus home with us. Thank goodness for Starbucks gift cards. The teacher forgave me and I decided to give her an award called, “No Teacher Left Behind.”

Interested in the 2012 camp series, visit, www.cceconptnr.org. I know I’m going back!

Women know what they want, they just don’t know how to get it. That’s where I come in….

A make-up lesson is taught by a licensed professional who has had years of training with cosmetics. The professional should have the intense understanding of color, in-depth knowledge of skin care, and correct treatment options for each individual’s skin. Knowing the right colors, updating your make-up styles, and understanding trends that are realistic gives you confidence. Make-up lessons should be subtle not drastic; by changing your make-up wardrobe with the right instruction it will make a world of difference. At The Rouge we carry only the finest cosmetics by Fleur Visage that are updated every season. When a new client comes in for a lesson, we start by asking the client what their needs are and how we can help them. We show them how to get their very own look with the right color cosmetics, with an updated style.

What to Expect in a Make-up Lesson:

1^st Skin Care:

Ongrien Advanced Skin Care. By assessing your features and skin condition we go through a one on one consultation and help you select a skin care program that will fit your needs as well as make-up to fit your lifestyle.

2^nd Eyebrow Shaping:

Analyzing your face shape and the way your eyebrows grow naturally, we offer our expert advice on how they should be shaped. Waxing or tweezing is available and are a-la-carte. Perfection and symmetry is key.

3^rd Concealer:

We have many concealers and colors to choose from. We analyze your skin tones and apply a concealer that goes with your skin color. If you choose too dark of a concealer you can end up looking older than intended; however choosing too light of a concealer has unpleasant effects as well. Choosing the correct shade is vital.

4^th Foundation:

Whether you need a little coverage or you want to smooth imperfections in your complexion, we have many foundations to choose from. Our most popular foundation is our Custom Blend. We will professionally blend our Custom Foundation to match your skin tone exactly. After applying foundation we gently apply a silky Mica Powder (Not Mineral) to set the make-up on your skin. This helps the skin look very natural and smooth. Our Mica Powders can also be used alone.

5^th Blushers and Bronzers:

Skin Glowing Techniques- We show you the right color and the correct technique for applying blush and bronzers. You will achieve the most sun kissed, natural glowing skin for your very own skin tone.

6^th Eye Shadows-Eye Liners:

We chart out how to apply eye shadows and eyeliners correctly for your eye shape and natural contours. Having the right eye colors are essential in bringing out the best in your features.

7^th Lip Sticks Lip Liner Glosses:

Lip colors should accent the skin and brighten up your smile.  Choosing a lip color is very challenging for most women. We help you select a lipstick or lip-gloss to compliment the skin, while keeping in mind the season.

At The Rouge Make-up Lessons and Make-up Updates are very popular. We offer these services Tuesday through Saturday, by appointment only.