Food

MARCH 6, 2020 Entertainment RESTAURANTS, NIGHTCLUBS, THEATERS & EVENTS

Tues., March 17 - Fri., March 20 Tues., March 24 - Fri., March 27 Thurs., March 19 - Noon to 2pm } 1pm-3pm School’s Out! BRENTWOOD ROCKS!

Santa Rosa. The Schnittkers sought out others who might support such a program in the community by hosting initial meetings of those with Parksinson’s in their own home.

Once a need had been establsihed, Duane and Sue supported Garcia in getting the required training in Indianapolis to establish the first Rock Steady Boxing program in Contra Costa County.

Through their outreach, the Schnittkers have been very successful in promoting support services for others battling PD. For Duane, PD is like shadow boxing — you’re fighting an opponent you cannot see.

Combined with the interest in Rock Steady Boxing, the resulting support group became known as the Delta Shadow Boxers Parkinson’s Support Group. They began meeting in March 2016 with 10 members. The group has now grown to 80 members, plus their caregivers. Their goals are to stay informed, stay active and stay social.

To stay informed, the Schnittkers arrange professional speakers, often from the pharmaceutical or medical fields, including speech and physical therapists who work specifically with people with PD. From the wealth of information available on the many facets of PD, a meeting’s program may include a video or a presentation by a member of the group who has researched a topic of their particular interest.

Information and experiences shared between members is also of great value, so their meetings include breakout sessions to include men, women and caretakers of those with PD.

It is fitting that the support group originated over interest in a physical fitness activity, as research shows that exercise is the only thing proven to stunt the progression of PD. Vigorous exercise that increases the heart rate for a recommended 2.5 hours per week is optimal. ‘Do what you love so you will stick with it’ is the philosophy the Schnittkers try to instill in the group’s membership. In addition to boxing, members have been encouraged to try yoga, dance, tai chi and fast walking.

Apathy and social isolation are also common among those with PD and their caregivers. Sue called on her background in event planning and hosting to organize game Open Mic Night

Join Brentwood Writes at Open Mic Night, Thursday, March 12, at 6:30 p.m. in the Brentwood Community Center for an evening of poetry, short prose and song.

The focus will be on Women’s History, the beginning of spring, St. Patrick’s Day and whatever else tickles our fancy. All short work - poetry, short stories, nonfiction and music - is welcome.

Participants are allowed five minutes. Bring your own work or that of another, as long as it is neither insulting nor abusive. Everyone is invited whether performing or listening and enjoying. This event is free and open to the public.

Open Mic is presented by Brentwood Writes, an affiliate of the Brentwood Art Society and the Brentwood Community Library. It is hosted by Kati Short, poet laureate, City of Brentwood.

For more information, email katishort@yahoo.com or call 925-634-6655. The Brentwood Community Center is located at 35 Oak St., in downtown Brentwood. nights, dinner parties, holiday events and other miscellaneous activities throughout the year. In addition, caretakers meet monthly to socialize and learn from one another.

Everyone has their own own journey. Sue and Duane have not only made Contra Costa County better through their professions, they continue to give back by meeting the challenges in their lives head on. They are a prime example of what keeps our community special. – Contributed by Christina Dalton

$9 per person for 2 hours of bowling including shoes, music & lights. (RESERVATIONS RECOMMENDED)

BRENTWOOD ROCKS

BOWLING

harvestparkbowl.com (925) 516-1221 5000 Balfour Road Brentwood

Oak Street Bar & Grill

144 Oak Street Brentwood 634-1025 Corner of Oak & Second Streets Call for more info & reservations www.capsrestaurant.com

FRIDAY & SATURDAY, MARCH 13 & 14 • 9 PM • $15

WE’RE BACK! SEASONAL OPENING MARCH 7TH When you shop the farmers' market you can be assured you're getting one thing - what the farmers have grown themselves. It's all about 'local' at the farmers' market with produce from Brentwood’s own backyard!

BRENTWOODFARMERSMARKET TEPPANYAKI • SUSHI • BAR

BUY ONE, GET ONE 50% OFF! Max. Value $20 Valid Sunday-Thursday. One coupon party. Offer cannot be combined. Not valid with any other offers. Excludes holidays. Dine In only. Expires 3-31-20.

Join us for HAPPY HOUR! EVERY DAY 4:30-7PM (Bar Only)

$5 OFF ANY ORDER OF $25 OR MORE Valid Sunday - Thursday Not valid with other offers. Dine In only. Expires 3-31-20.

$10 OFF ANY ORDER OF $50 OR MORE Valid Sunday - Thursday Not valid with other offers. Dine In only. Expires 3-31-20.

EAT FREE On your Birthday Parties of 6 or more. Max value $20. Not valid with any other offers. Offer cannot be combined.