Apr 2014 delta living mag

D E LTA LIV ING APR/JUNE 2014

CUTTHROAT KITCHEN WINNER Chef Michael Midgley

Author Kathy Hering Designs Murder Mysteries

Bubba Paris Helps Us Face our Fears

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April – June 2014

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April – June 2014

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in this issue‌ Regular Features 8

Delta Kidz Corner Kids and Springtime

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Words from Bubba Facing Your Fears

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Delta Laughs Funny Side Up: Rite Aid, Will You Be Mine?

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Doris Hobbs Working Girl Fashion

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Delta Reads Author Kathy Hering: Hammered, Nailed & Screwed

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Delta Inspiration Dr. Danielle Dowling: 7 Ways to Lead a Fulfilling & Empowered Life

Cover Feature:

34 Chef Michael Midgley - Cutthroat Kitchen Winner

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Special Features 12

Talented Miguel Saldano Award-Winning Best Customer Service

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Father Tom Interfaith Peace Project by Walter Ruehlig

Delta Smilz Jennifer Cordero

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A Man and His Kindle Walter Ruehlig

About Delta Living Magazine

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Hair Foundation Emily Wesolek

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Photo & Writing Contests 2014

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Lungs for Joy

By Maria Tavares

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Comedy Night Kellen Erskine

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Delta Dining Chef Mark Anthony: So You Wanna Be a Chef eh?

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A Lung for Joy

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delta living CONTACT US P.O. Box 395 Knightsen, CA 94548 www.DeltaLivingMagazine.com charleenbearley@gmail.com 925.383.3072 PUBLISHER Charleen Earley - charleenbearley@gmail.com GRAPHIC DESIGNER Conrad Borba - conradborba@gmail.com EDITOR IN CHIEF Maria Tavares - mrh_tavares@yahoo.com WRITERS Maria Tavares • Doris Hobbs Emily Wesolek • Dr. Danielle Dowling Walter Ruehlig • Chef Mark Anthony William “Bubba” Paris • Dawn Fischer Charleen Earley PHOTOGRAPHERS Maria Tavares • Jennifer Cordero Charleen Earley • Walter Ruehlig Lisa Taylor COPY EDITORS John Hartmann • Maria Tavares Tammy Borba • Walter Ruehlig DISTRIBUTION Barbara Ellison-Smith Walter Ruehlig SUBSCRIPTIONS $4 each issue or $15 annual (4 issues a year) Mail check to: P.O. Box 395 Knightsen, CA 94548 Make check payable to: Delta Living Magazine Delta Living Magazine is published quarterly on recycled paper. Copyright© 2012 by Charleen Earley. Single copy price $4 in U.S.A. on 100% recycled paper. $15 for annual subscription. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited. Printed in the U.S.A. E-zine version available. Contact charleenbearley@gmail.com, 925.383.3072 or visit www.deltalivingmagazine.com.

All rights reserved. No part of any issue of Delta Living Magazine, be it editorial content, photographs or advertising design, may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means; electronic, mechanical, photocopy, or any other format, without the prior permission of the publisher. All facts, opinions and statements appearing within this publication are those of the writers and editors themselves and are in no way to be construed as statements, positions, views or endorsements by the publisher of Delta Living Magazine.

Accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed. Due to uncertain nature of U.S. Postal Service and third party freight services, Delta Living Magazine does not guarantee delivery of said publication by any specific date.

www.deltalivingmagazine.com

letter from the editor To some of you, this may come as a shock: This is my first “Editor’s Letter.” Ever. As in, this is my first time as an editor of a publication.

And I couldn’t be more thrilled! It has always been a passion of mine to write, and a dream of mine to hold an editing position for a magazine. (I was very specific with my goals as a teenager.) Now I can say to my teenage self, “We did it!” I can only hope that my ambition pays off and that you enjoy every issue from the Delta Living Magazine family. Although I did not obtain a degree in Journalism with a minor in Creative Writing from San Francisco State University, as I had hoped, I still have numerous credits under my belt (three years’ worth) that have made me a better writer and editor. When I returned home to Elk Grove, Ca, I enrolled in the local community college and studied photography and Child De-

velopment part-time while working full-time. In each of the classes I have taken, I can still say my strongest suit was in writing all of the papers required for each subject. I am constantly reading whatever I can get my hands on, and rewriting phrases and short stories in my head. I also enjoy blogging about my photography and photographing for my blog. This is my second issue as editor for Delta Living Magazine. For our new and faithful readers, thank you for taking the time to flip through our pages and see all of our hard work come to fruition. Because of this magazine, I have had the pleasure of meeting people who just ... change lives. Learn about Joy Love Williams and her “joy” for life as she waits for two new lungs (pg 30). Get to know Kathleen Hering, author of “Hammered, Nailed and Screwed” and “Ripped, Stripped and Flipped” (pg 20). Need a little

delta mail…

G

reat story on “Mr. Thompson with a P” in your January, 2014 issue. I've been trying to get him services for over a year now and he refuses. He used to be camped out on Hwy 4/Brentwood Blvd. just south of the Brentwood Police Department with a small tent. He was there for quite a while with no waste facilities nearby for him to use, etc. I sent our County Homeless Providers by a few times to offer assistance and he was able to refuse them even though he was trespassing and living in unsanitary conditions. It is a real problem.We were finally able to get Code Enforcement involved to help, but obviously that only moved him down the road a bit. Unfortunately, that didn't solve the problem, just moved it somewhere else. Oftentimes there is mental health issues associated with chronic homelessness. I'm not diagnosing “Mr. Thompson with a P,” but it could be part of the problem. It would be very helpful if he would agree to receive homeless services and any other necessary services, maybe someday. If we can help further, my office number is 925.252.4500.

Mary N. Piepho, District III Supervisor Contra Costa County

W

e grabbed the current issue of Delta Living Magazine (Jan., 2014) off the table the other night at the Comedy Show at Trilogy at the Vineyards (Brentwood). During a break the next morning, I started reading the article you wrote on the homeless man; Dwight … brought tears to my eyes. The way you described the moments leading up to meeting him, a person

Maria Tavares help with your springtime wardrobe?

Have no fear, a simple Q&A can help you with that (pg 18) I look forward to meeting new, life-changing people, and reading all about their stories through this magazine. And I would love to hear from you! Send any questions or comments my way: mrh_tavares@yahoo.com Happy reading.

Do you have something you would like to share with us? Please e-mail your letter to charleenbearley@gmail.com

could just feel your apprehension and uneasiness.

Excellent article! We wanted to thank you, also, for the wonderful article you did on the dinner we hosted for Jessyca Albuan, as part of Black Bear Diner’s December Make-A-Wish fundraising campaign. We loved meeting this family and we were so glad to see Jessyca doing so well! You had such a short time to gather all the information and pictures, yet it was a thoughtful, sensitive and accurate article. We greatly appreciate you taking the time to write it.

Brenda and Jimmy D’Amico, Black Bear Diner Oakley, CA

I

just finished reading the magazine cover to cover. Wow! I loved it. I had read a few articles over the past few weeks, but tonight, I brought it to my bed to read while listening to the Warrior game. I read the Dwight story out loud to my daughter, Rachel. When I was done, I asked her what she thought. Her reply, “I read that the other night at Panera Bread (off Lone Tree/Antioch).” Lol. She is always curious about that guy, too. She thinks you were pretty brave and it must have been scary for you. I would bet she will have lots of questions next time we run into you. My favorite story was the Sean Aiken one. What an amazingly inspiring young man. I also liked the LynDee Walker article. I am searching for my Nook so I can order one of her books. Just wanted to share my thoughts. Keep up the great work!

Sandy Strobel Brentwood, CA

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contributors…

Conrad Borba - Graphic Designer Conrad Borba is a graphic and web designer, who spent much time in his youth drawing and creating, with his earliest memories of working on a computer as a kindergartner. He studied graphic and web design at Modesto Junior College and the Institute of Technology of Modesto. With over 10 years experience in graphic design and six years as a freelancer, Borba stays abreast industry standards in order to provide his clients with fresh and new ideas. Reach him at conradborba@ gmail.com

Dr. Danielle Dowling ~ Writer/Life Coach Dr. Danielle Dowling is a life coach and psychologist. She’s an intuitive strategist working with women who are ready to stop compromising on the things that matter most — self-realization, soulful companionship and accessing innate power. Her goal is to motivate women to live inspiring lives; to help them experience a life better lived and to help women achieve their dreams whatever they may be. Connect with Danielle at www.danielle-dowling.com.

Doris Hobbs ~ Fashion Writer Inspired by an era gone by, Doris brings her classic and timeless sense of style to the pages of Delta Living Magazine. “The Working Girl feature is for the average woman seeking to refine her appearance with a vintage flair,” says the Bay Area fashion blogger and writer. In addition to Delta Living Magazine, she writes for both Simon Malls as a featured Style Setter and her personal blog at www.richinlovefashion.com.

Walter Ruehlig - Writer Walter Ruehlig graduated cum laude with a degree in English from the State University of New York at Albany and career counsels adults with disabilities. He’s the former President of the Antioch School Board, founded the Antioch Music Foundation, and is the 2012 Antioch Citizen of the Year-Lifetime Achievement award recipient.

He regularly contributes to three local newspapers. Email him at walter.ruehlig@gmail.com.

Maria Tavares - Editor/Photographer/Writer Maria Tavares is a writer, editor, photographer, full-time mother and wife. She is grateful to be Delta Living Magazine’s newest editor. She is also the owner of FiestaFlix Photography and a Party Host for a local girl’s boutique in Brentwood: Little Miss Everything. See her work at FiestaFlixPhotography.shutterfl y.com. Read her blog, “Life Through the Lens” at FiestaFlix. blogspot.com.

Emily Wesolek - Writer Emily Wesolek has always had a passion for making people feel great. A licensed cosmetologist since 2009, Emily works as a hairstylist at the JCPenney Salon in Antioch. Also a Certified Cosmetology Instructor, she’s worked at Paris Beauty College. She’s always willing and eager to learn new beauty techniques. Since she was young, she’s always had a desire to become a writer. Send your beauty questions to hairbybettyblack@gmail.com.

Chef Mark Anthony ~ Culinary World Traveler™ and writer Personality blends the style and culture of the many places I’ve worked and lived, from San Francisco and Santa Fe, to Paris France and Cape Town South Africa. I’m an eclectic one who doesn’t have any one particular style, rather a strong foundational love of food and the vast cultures behind them. Follow on twitter @mas_onward.

Jennifer Cordero ~ Photographer Jennifer Cordero’s photography can be found in the Delta Smilz section where she captures the smilz of local residents enjoying life in East Contra Costa County. Discovery Bay is where she feels extremely fortunate to raise her family. Whether it’s traveling to see exciting new things, cooking to taste new foods, or just plain relaxing, she’s always looking for something fun to do and photograph. E-mail her at jennifercordero597@ymail.com.

Delta Living Magazine Vision Delta Living Magazine is an artery of hyper local and regional features, which shares information to promote improved lives to our families. It specifically focuses on inspiring, motivating, educating and entertaining our community to reach a bit higher in creating their ideal lives.

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April – June 2014 3/21/2014 1:57:54 PM

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DELTA KIDZ CORNER

Photos by Maria Taveres

Fling open the doors and windows

Spring is here!

Now what do I do with my kids?

By Maria Tavares

mrh_tavares@yahoo.com Sometimes I feel like I am still in the in-between stage in my life.

Not quite a kid anymore, but not aged enough to retire. And having a toddler in my arms really makes me feel more in touch with my youthful side. I get to teach her all of the fun playground games that I used to play like “tag” and “hide and seek.” I can introduce her to new outdoor activities also since she is finally big enough. Being a stay-at-home mom allows me to find the time to get creative with the projects that I have created for myself and my daughter, outdoors.

(So I've saved you some of the guess work!) Some I have found on Pinterest (since I'm a Pinterest junkie...) and others are ones

that have come from a friend of a friend of a friend. Or tried and true. Still just as fun.

Edible Fingerpaint: Yup, edible. Colorful and delicious; who wouldn't want to play in that?! All you need is a nice, safe outdoor space (a covered kitchen floor works, too), a big sheet of paper, plain yogurt, different colors of Kool-Aid (or other drink mix) packets, or food coloring. Mix the yogurt and color packets or food coloring of one color in a bowl, on a plate, in a cup, etc. Something that's easy enough for the kiddo to get their hands in to reach the “paint.” This is usually a project that I let my daughter do on a bath day because she goes straight into the tub when all the painting is done. To save her clothes from stains, I leave

her in a diaper. Plain yogurt with a touch of food coloring is a healthy snack and it makes for beautiful art when it dries!

Treasure Hunt Nature Walks: My idea of staying fit involves the occasional stroll in the neighborhood. If this walk takes place outside of nap time, I try to make it interesting by telling her to find objects on the way. This is also a good way to practice shapes and colors with preschoolers. Or if they're school-aged, have them find a quantity of an object. This activity counts as exercise and learning, but only you will know that they're actually doing twice the work. They'll just think its fun.

Win-win.

Picnics: I know what you're thinking: that's not a fun activity.

That requires planning! Yes and no.

It gives your kiddos a time of day to look forward to, it's outdoors

(and fresh air works wonders when you've been stuck inside all winter, not to mention the benefits of Vitamin D from the sun), you only have to pack nutritional essentials so you aren't tempted to reach for the cookies in the cabinet behind the fiber cereal to quiet the inevitable before-dinner snack cravings (out of sight, out of mind), and if you plan for a picnic on a day when everyone is home, it counts as quality time.You can pick a spot in the yard, your local park, or at a friend's house. The more the merrier! You can also get them involved in the process by asking them what you should pack to eat or play with. Fun snacks from my childhood were “Ants on a log” (celery stick with peanut butter and raisins), PB&J cracker sandwiches (I always preferred them on Saltines), and the homemade Lunchable (crackers, meat, and cheese slices). If you haven't tried these snacks with them yet, it's a good time to get them to play a guessing game before you reveal what you've packed. Throw in some waters, juices, or dare I say it, sodas, and you're off to a nice day outside.

For more tips on fun activities with the kids, stay tuned to Delta Living Magazine. Or email Maria at mrh_tavares@yahoo.com

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Words from Bubba …

Facing Your Fears

By William “Bubba” Paris www.bubbaparis.org

O

n our journey through life, we will encounter challenging moments that will seem as though they are more than we can face. In those defining moments, you must be brave enough to fight through. You must face your fears and trust the pure potential that lies in you. Every creation was forged from a place where action over took fear.Your creation, or purpose, is inside you, begging to come forward. You can’t allow yourself to be conditioned, shaped and programmed by fear.

Fear, once developed in your life, will rear its ugly head every time you face challenging moments.

We must take control of our life and live it by design and not by default. When we adjust our life to accommodate fear, we live it by default. I once heard someone say “Fear is False Evidence Appearing Real,” a fear-driven life is not a purpose-driven one. Knowing what we are capable of, and being brave enough to face the moment, is crucial to living the life designed for us by purpose.

When I was about five years old, there were two older boys who terrorized my life. They would beat me up and take from me anything of value that I had in my possession. I was like a fox in England; where they have fox hunts.

I had to make sure that I stayed hidden or I would be chased and traumatized. Well on this day, I was caught in the open and had to run for dear life. I ran until the front door of my house was in sight. The safety of home was an arm’s length away. I grabbed the screen door and I pulled it open. My father, who watched the entire event unfold, was in the doorway.

He pulled the door closed and locked it. I looked at him wondering why he would leave me in harm’s way. He said, “Junior, either you face them or you will face me.” I knew how my father was, so I decided I stood a better chance with the two bullies. For the first time in my young life, I had to face the fear of the moment, and do something about it.

There were two of them and only one of me.

They were known for being mean and they preyed on all the kids in the neighborhood.

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They were much older and retreating was not an option.

My heart was racing! I was face to face with two people that I saw as insurmountable forces; forces that I was not capable of prevailing against. I had always thought it was easier to run. I even conditioned myself to take the beatings. I adjusted my life around their movements. I never even dreamt it was possible to defend myself. I thought I was too young and too weak, but I had no choice, I had to face them.

I focused on the one we all considered the leader, because he had a reputation for being the toughest. As I faced him, fear left me and instinct took over. I learned even though I was younger than my body looked, my body was capable of responding. I hit him and pushed him to the ground.

He was in shock and he abandoned the fight. The second guy just ran.

At that moment, my life changed.

It was not really a fight, only one shove. It was not so much the shove that ended the fight; it was the fact that I faced them in that challenging moment, without fear. Facing my fear impacted my young life; I no longer had to run home. I knew I could respond when needed. My father was not trying to teach me to be a fighter. He was teaching me to be brave. He wanted me to face my fears and trust in my ability to respond. He knew every time I faced my fears, whether the outcome was the desired one or not, that I would win from the experience of being fearless. He knew that I would gain momentum and confidence and I would be better equipped as I faced the unavoidable challenges of life.

Don’t allow your

destiny to be shaped by a lack of confidence or fear. When you do, you will lose your true self, and you are no longer living the life that is meant for you. Embrace every new challenging moment and move forward fearlessly.

Knowing that unproductive and unhealthy fear (False Evidence Appearing Real) will always present evidence that the moment is greater than you. The challenges of the moment are real! What is false is the assertion that you are not capable of prevailing in the moment. So face your fears and go forward- you are more than a conqueror!

www.deltalivingmagazine.com

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April – June 2014

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Serving Up Talent Wherever He Goes

By Charleen Earley

charleenbearley@gmail.com

M

iguel Saldana of Brentwood doesn’t need to read books on how to become the best food server, cook, comic, party-decorator or TV host, because all that comes natural to him.

Born and raised in Veracruz, Mexico, in a small town called Hornitos, located in the Gulf of Mexico, Miguel came to the United States at age 17. He brought with him a strong desire to work hard, the way his parents taught him, and to cook – something he says he always enjoys.

I’ve been cooking since I was young,” says Miguel, 30, who moved to Brentwood from Gilroy, Ca. six years ago.“When I do home parties, I’m always cooking everything!”

Whether he’s cooking at home or serving food at work, making people happy is what makes him happy.

“I like to see people enjoying

their food and drinks,” adds Miguel, who has worked at Jalisco’s Mexican Restaurant in Brentwood, Ca. for the last six year. “I always get compliments on the drinks I make when I bartend. People also love my customer service too.”

Winner of the “2011 Best Customer Service” at Jalisco’s by The Best of Brentwood three years ago, Miguel started from the ground up as busboy first, then server and bartender.

And how can one become the best at customer service, without first being a comedian and TV host?

“I love to make people laugh,” said Miguel. “My comedy shows are in Spanish-only and I work weekends in different restaurants and night clubs throughout the Bay Area; San Francisco, Pittsburg, Antioch, Oakley, Brentwood and Oakland.”

With his witty personality, it’s no wonder he was hired by an on-line TV show in 2013 called, “La Nota Rosa” as a host and interviewer.

“I interview important people from the Latino community; actresses, actors, singers, ambassadors, designers, comedians and journalists,” said Miguel.

When he’s not food-serving, telling jokes on stage, interviewing celebs or bartending, Miguel is busy (by appointment only) running his party-decorating business.

“I took courses in Los Angeles to become a professional balloon decorator and have been doing my business for five years now,” he said.“My work can be seen at www.globolandiadeco.com.”

With all the hats he wears, Miguel thanks his bossValentina Torres, owner of Jalisco’s Mexican Restaurant, for her unending support.

“I want to thank all the people and fans who believe in me, my talents and my desire to work,” said Miguel. “And my boss Valentina, for her support in all my projects. Remember that all dreams come true if you work hard.”

Miguel Saldano interviews Graciela Beltran in San Jose, Ca., for her latest album, a famous singer in the Latino Community.

LIBERTY ADULT EDUCATION Career and Educational Opportunities

The Liberty Adult Education Summer/Fall Catalog will be available July 1, 2014. We will be offering many new classes. Come and check out our new upgraded computer labs. We offer daytime Career Certification Programs, Accounting Assistant, Medical Office Receptionist, and much more.

In the evenings we offer Accounting I-III, QuickBooks, Microsoft Office Suite, as well as Introduction to Basic Computers. We also have many enrichment classes. Try your hand at Pickle Making, Bodacious Bows, Tole & Decorative Painting, Zumba classes, as well as Yoga, and Meditation.

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925.634.2565 12

April – June 2014

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Call today to have Fido or Fluffy bathed, primped, styled and wowed by making an appointment with Cinda. Or if you’re heading out of town on vacation, Country Paws in Knightsen will be their home away from home – so much so, that they may just want to stay!

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April – June 2014

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Funny side up DELTA LAUGHS

Rite Aid… will you be my Valentine?

By Charleen Earley

charleenbearley@gmail.com

I

wrote this humor piece the day before this year’s Valentine’s Day for a girlfriend who kept receiving automated calls from Rite Aid pharmacy.

We laughed about it, especially after she said that for the last few years, her only relationship had been with Rite Aid. Naturally, it got my comedic thought-wheels spinning, and I wrote this for her.

Hope you enjoy it as much as she did.

Dearest Rite Aid, With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, I have just one question to ask you: Will you be mine?

I mean, you already are, there’s absolutely no doubt in my mind.

I hope there’s no doubt in yours too.

You are the closest thing I’ve had to a serious relationship in such a long time. And might I add, the sweetest thing that’s ever happened too. And I’m not just talking about your candy isle either. Can we say, bar-none, you are best.

We go way back, a chance meeting in Oakland one night some 30+ years ago. We met when I was pretty down and out, but there you were, open, so bright, so big and so full of remedies and fixes, I honestly felt as though my search for Mr. Rite had ended right then and there.

You’ve been there for me all these years. You’ve never closed 14

April – June 2014

your doors on me – even when I left my wallet at home on accident. Turns out, you had my phone number on file. I knew you’d never throw it away. And late hours is your middle name. I love you for that.

When I’ve moved to other cities, you followed me. Your dedication moves me like none other.

You were there for me when I was sick. On isle 4, you led me to a large can of Campbell’s chicken soup.Yum. It healed my soul.You knew.

When my sinuses went haywire, there you were on isle 10, offering me Zyrtec. God bless you.

When I couldn’t sleep – most likely thinking of you – I found

blissful slumber and sweet dreams with your Benadryl on isle 6.

When I needed a boost, you sent me to isle 8 for some Rockstar Energy drink. YOU are my Rock Star. You rock my world, more than anyone has ever rocked it before.

I cherish every one of your beautiful calls at all hours of the day and night, to remind me to come visit you – not that I need reminding, mind you.

When I needed to laugh, you walked me down isle 2 and showed me the mirrors. I got it.

If I can’t laugh at myself, then what’s the point? You get me.You REALLY get me.

When I needed to feel pretty, you took me to your back wall and introduced me to a gal named Neutro Gena.You always lead me to the Crème de la Crèmes.

Rite Aid … will you be my Valentine?

I promise to stay faithful to you forever. I want to grow old with you by my side (or down the street). My brief encounter with Walgreens will never happen again. And just for the record, we never kissed. I just walked in, and then walked out.

Know this too … no doors swoosh open better than yours.

XOXO Charleen Earley is a comedienne, freelance writer, humor columnist, high school substitute and journalism teacher, and Publisher of Delta Living Magazine. Reach her at charleenbearley@gmail.com. www.deltalivingmagazine.com

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April – June 2014

15

Interfaith Peace Project

By Walter Ruehlig

walter.ruehlig@gmail.com

D

efining a visionary's constitution, saying "Some men see things as they are and say, why? I dream things that never were and ask, why not?" George Bernard Shaw championed the spirit and persona of Rev. Tom Bonacci. Father Tom, as he is often called, holds a radical notion: peace treaties and arms control agreements are like moving furniture around in a room; there's no true structural transformation.

Father Tom, founder of the Interfaith Peace Project, unequivocally states that "There can be no world peace without religious peace."

He bemoans that "people who cling too jealously with their faith traditions, and take it too personally when anyone attacks or even fails to embrace the teachings of their chosen prophet, often resort to disdain or murderous rage."

Distrust and intolerance, then, is the historical animus boiling the societal pot and spilling over into conflict.

Is Tom proposing a new world religion? No, to the contrary. A Catholic Priest and member of the Passionist Order, Father Tom neither advocates a universal religion nor asks that we underscore commonality. Instead, he advocates celebrating our respective traditions and rejoicing in our uniqueness.

"Take the time to learn about each other's faith. Get to know strangers, read the scriptures and examine the religious symbols belonging to others. Doing so will inevitably bring the walls of ignorance tumbling down,” urges Father Tom. From whence the genesis of this world view?

Tom grew up in Pittsburgh, PA, in a culturally diverse and ecumenically vigorous community. He lived near three Jewish synagogues, Reform and Orthodox, a Kingdom Hall, Baptist, Eastern Rite, Irish, Italian and Polish Catholic churches. He would often join a rabbi and his son walking to school.

"I didn't know the world was divided until I became a teenager and saw a hatred I couldn't process," he said.

In 1968 Tom changed forever by meeting Thomas Berry, a fellow Passionist priest and Professor of World Culture. He was inspired to walk the walk and joined an interfaith synagogue. His childhood and new adult worldview merged. He now realized that world peace would never come from religions talking to each other, because, by nature they would not sit down with each other, let alone have a rap16

April – June 2014

Photo Courtesy of Father Tom Rev. Tom Bonacci, better known as Father Tom, is a Passionist who connects believers of different faiths. His plethora of all religious texts and tales reside with him in Antioch, but he often travels to homes, events and meetings to share his vast knowledge.

Photo by Maria Tavares There is an unlimited amount of idols, statues and figurines in the Interfaith hub. These are just a few of the women represented next to a button with the words “I stand with the Sisters.”

prochement. Tom saw that peace would only come from the grassroots experience of individuals breaking down the barriers of fear and prejudice.

Tom eventually moved to Carlow University in Pittsburgh, serving as a chaplain and teacher, when on September 8, 2001, three days before the Twin Towers tragedy, the University Board of Directors auspiciously approved his proposed Interfaith Center. He started a soon-

Contact Father Tom at 925.325.0144

flourishing sanctuary, experimental theater and tradition of Peace Poles for five years before religious politics closed his doors and exiled him.

Father Tom came to California in 2006 and rebooted the organization, but this time wisely unencumbered to any other group. Last year, the organization reached 4,000 people. It provided cross-religious experiences, learning opportunities and interpersonal encounters that foster appreciation normally restricted to people with the time, energy and resources to travel or to attend formal classes in some institution of higher learning.

The Interfaith Peace Project is a multipronged outreach; offering an extensive library and sanctuary for reflection, housing thousands of faith-based texts and artifacts from Judaica, Christian, Buddhist, Hindu, Muslim, Sufi and Sikh traditions.

It offers educational opportunities in people's homes or larger institutional settings; Spiritual Direction opportunities to deepen inner awareness and practice; the Sacred Visit program allowing people to experience and meet people of different traditions in their places of worship; a Circle of Interfaith Women; a Peace Pole Project; and Community Celebration of the International Day of Peace.

The educational outreach extends from Reno to Santa Cruz. Over 140 bookings are already scheduled for 2014 and the calls from around the world keep increasing. Father Tom has travelled to Jordan, Egypt, Germany, Ireland and Italy.

Father Tom values his volunteers immensely.

"The volunteers have been a treasure as they are a microcosm of what our mission is; they're a richly diverse group that shows the value of complimentary talents,” he said.“Through thick and thin, I'm always amazed at their unflappable tolerance, resolve and humor."

The Reverend’s vision of the future is simple.

"I don't micromanage. I've never had a laundry list of goals.The organization is organic and has evolved with the community and need of the time," he added.

In the 1960's a button read "What if they gave a war and nobody came?"

For the likes of Father Tom, this is a serious call to a different set of arms and to be that individual agent of change from whence seismic social transformation begins.

Father Tom is, in fact, a true Passionist. In the spirit of Mahatma Gandhi's sentiments, this gentle warrior zealously lives the charge, 'my life is my mission.' www.deltalivingmagazine.com

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April – June 2014

17

�ir� Fashion

Working T

he Working Girl Wardrobe was originally launched on Richinlovefashion. com in July 2013 as a monthly feature. It will continue here in Delta Living Magazine as a quarterly feature with the intent of allowing women of all ages, figures and financial character to explore, re-vision and refresh their present work-wear attire. The vision, along with insightful ideas, gives an enriched inspi-

DELTA FASHION

ration to those in need of assistance.

With the spring season upon us, slipping on a floral, lightweight, flirty dress comes to mind. For some, perhaps separates in an array of pastel hues or contrasting patterns make the transition into this season’s trend. Regardless of what the case may be, the right sense of style can create a mood, a moment or complete a story.

Q

April is my birthday month.

What is the most fashionable thing I can wear this summer?

Kersti Evans – Sacramento, CA

A

I know the thought of wearing your basic tank and cut-off denim shorts comes to mind, but why not dress up your wardrobe with pieces that can be seen as effortless? A few that come to mind are your traditional khaki, flat-front shorts, the comfort of a patterned, cotton sundress and the femininity of a floral overlay lace blouse.

Q

Doris Hobbs

I’m an average woman with curves. I’ve recently seen an overwhelming trend of stripes this season. How can I choose the right pattern?

Marlene Araujo - Oakland, CA

A

This classic, yet traditional wardrobe staple can truthfully be worn with anything from your basic office-inspired pencil skirt to a casual motif of a contrasting patterned short; may I suggest starting with a narrow strip pattern for a thinner appearance.

Q

I love pastel colors, but don’t know how to incorporate them into my wardrobe. Any suggestions?

Lindsay Porter – Brentwood, CA

A

Floral can be seen as a sort of ditsy print with a wide color range of pastel or bold palettes; wear it as a day wear separate or as an entire ensemble.

Pastels are best complimented if worn with neutrals such as a navy or beige color scheme. If you’re not ready for a floral print, integrate pastels as an accessory such as a gold tone sandal or perhaps a powder blue handbag.

Photo by Maria Tavares 18

April – June 2014

For more fashion advice and news, be sure to follow Doris on Twitter @doris_hobbs.

Send your fashion questions to Doris Hobbs at richinloveinquires@gmail.com. www.deltalivingmagazine.com

My First Time Meeting Kindle A new, trusted, eco-friend

By Walter Ruehlig

walter.ruehlig@gmail.com

I

've always been one to go kicking and screaming down Technology Way. Mind you, at one point my wife had to threaten divorce if we didn't get cell phones. In the end, I figured Verizon’s customer support was cheaper than marriage counseling.

I'm becoming a late convert, though, to the Tabernacle of the Wired. Just this weekend, my son presented me with a Kindle eBook reader and I actually didn't hide in the attic to delay his instructions.

Truth is, any anxieties would have been unfounded. Kindle is as easy as pie to operate with instructional screens as simple as hitting the French fries button on the fast food place registers.

As for actual reading, it's a breeze. Choose from eight font sizes and six font styles and a range of an adjustable light meter allowing even broad daylight use.To boot, carrying cases come for the clumsy.

Best yet, for fitful readers like me, working on several books at a time, welcome to choice Seventh Heaven. If you don't want to buy a book, generally sold 50 to 60% off publisher price, with some as low as $3.00, you can choose from the classics. Anything before 1925 is in the public domain, shorn copyright. That's …ready for this … two million choices; enough to keep you reading through the lifetime of several couches and rocking chairs.

Then there’s Kindle Owners’ Lending Library where you can get one book a month and access most of the New York Times best-seller list and some 350,000 titles.

The Contra Costa County Library System got on board big-time. In 2013, 153,531 books were downloaded, a 75% increase over 2012. Since there is an on-going issue with some publishers about too easy access, hence fees of as much as $100.00

19 www.deltalivingmagazine.com April – June 2014

per book. Contra Costa County Library and Califa created enki Library; an e-book platform in which 30-plus California public libraries buys, not rents, the content.The collection, from mostly smaller publishers, (though McGraw Hill recently joined) is over 18,000. Access to the e-books is a finger-tip away.

"Popular" books can also be obtained through vendors such as OverDrive.com, which specializes in bestsellers, fiction and non-fiction, audio-books, and also has a smattering of music and video titles.

Another library vendor, Axis 360, specializes in visual content, such as children's books, cooking and craft books. Gale Virtual Reference Library is an encyclopedia lover's dream of 28 collections. This entire library trove can be accessed on http://ccclib.org/.

Our Contra Costa County Library also offers 28,000 titles on Project Gutenberg. Any selection you make doesn't go against your five e-book limit.

If you want to choose by academic interest, there are also resources on the web like www.worldebookfair. org, which has millions of titles stored under 25 subjects. Examples are astronomy (17,361 titles), fine arts (111,875), history (809,772), language (277,309), and religion (122,509).

As a last resort, you can buy books for your collection. My Kindle can store a thousand.Think about that; you can go on vacation and bring your library with you. No trees were cut down; you can integrate audio and visual into the resources, and you have a dictionary at hand to look up troublesome words.

Is all this to say that I have lost esteem for printed books? By no means. I love the caress of a book.

Leather binding and cursive art is seductive and the shopworn pages tempt you to curl up with them.

I love, too, the look of books placed throughout a house and the comforting signal being surrounded by old friends and world wisdom. In fact, for me the best prescription of interior decorating is to build more book shelves.

E-books, then, will never replace the printed book. It is just another enduring friend.

www.deltalivingmagazine.com April – June 2014 19

DELTA READS

Not dirty, not deep, no vampires!

Author Kathleen Hering keeps students in mind when writing her mystery novels

By Maria Tavares

Photos by Charleen Earley

mrh_tavares@yahoo.com

I

couldn't tell you how excited I was to be able to interview an author. Not just any author, but Kathleen Hering. She has a unique writing style that will keep you turning pages. Her first book, “Hammered, Nailed & Screwed,” is filled with twists and turns and handy advice for the inner interior decorator.

Main character Laura Howard is “haunted” by her deceased husband. His ashes are on her mantle, but he's calling her house phone and leaving brief messages. Instead of spoiling the rest of the story for all of you, I wanted to get to know the stylish, savvy mind behind the creative selfdubbed “Designer Mystery.”

How did you come up with your titles: "Hammered, Nailed & Screwed" and "Ripped, Stripped & Flipped?"

The main characters in Hammered, Nailed & Screwed and Ripped, Stripped & Flipped are a builder and an interior decorator, so I was seeking words related to carpentry. The "S" word in each title adds interest without being over-the-top risqué. I write comic mysteries. They're not dirty, they're not deep, and there are no vampires.

Anything you're working on now? Will another novel have the same three-worded tag for a title?

Plot ideas for a third Designer Mystery keep bouncing around in my head. I have to let those ideas settle for a bit. "Yes" to the three-word title. I had tentatively decided on Hammered and Nailed for the first book when my sister Margie – formerly thought of as a sweet, southern 20 April – June 2014

funny older lady Esther, I create the characters. Esther is modeled after my grandmother. As Grandma got older, she just blurted out whatever was on her mind.

Character Esther does too.

Do you ever encounter a bout of writers' block? What tips or tricks do you use to conquer it?

If I get stuck, I concentrate on writing silly patter and dialogue between characters for a later chapter. That's the part I enjoy most anyway.

If you weren't a writer, what other dream job do you think you would have had?

I think I would have liked to be an architect. I wouldn't have wanted to design great glass and steel buildings. I'd shoot for designing unique small houses without wasted space and where the cook didn't bump her head on the upper kitchen cabinets.

Oregon author Kathleen Hering has written two designer series mystery novels Hammered, Nailed & Screwed, and Ripped, Stripped & Flipped.

lady – suggested the third word.

She was right.

How much research do you do to write your books? How long does it take? Where do you begin? (For example: "Hammered" is full of interior design and police jargon. Was this all background knowledge or did you have to do some digging?)

When I retired from full-time work, I was at odds. I watched a lot of HGTV decorating shows.

I later called that my "research stage" instead of admitting I had loafed away all those afternoons.

For the second book, I did research about Italianate houses.

Ripped took about two years, start to finish. I hadn't thought about the police jargon, but, interestingly, my great grandfather and grandfather were both cops and my father was a fireman.

What inspired you to put catchy themed quotes at the end of each chapter in "Hammered?"

It's a gimmick I hadn't seen done before. I threw them in for fun.

When plotting your stories, do you dream up your characters or do they mostly resemble people in your life?

With the exception of the

At what age did you discover your love for writing? How? Robert E. Appleton, my ninth grade journalism teacher in Burbank, CA, inspired confidence in all his students. I think his influence is also the reason I majored in journalism later in college.

When writing, do you need absolute peace and quiet? Do you have a specific space or routine (or quirks!) to make the magic happen?

I write at a painted wooden desk with a large window above it. There's a laptop computer and a defiant printer, plus two small carefully printed signs on the wall near me. One says "Keep clam and proofread." The other reads "Careful, or you'll end up in my novel." Quiet is nice, but I started writing fiction when my sons were www.deltalivingmagazine.com

DELTA READS toddlers, so quiet isn't necessary.

On weeks when I'm disciplined, I try to write from 7 a.m. to noon.

How does it feel to have a published novel (on her own, ladies and gentlemen! Cue applause!)? Did you do anything to celebrate?

I'm ridiculously happy! My friend Kitty Buchner helped me format the novels for Kindle and CreateSpace publishing. After she volunteered her time for each formatting session, I bought her lunch at Subway. When sales of Hammered first took off , we celebrated by adding the potato chips and chocolate chip cookies to our Subway meals. We're not exactly party animals.

When publishing the novel yourself, did you encounter any roadblocks or was it smooth sailing?

Kitty, a former university research librarian and middle school librarian, has advanced computer technology skills. She got us past the hurdles.There's a little more to the process than following the directions that say "simply upload."

How does your husband support you when you're writing?

My husband Hasso assumes I can do anything. His attitude inspires confidence. I didn't ask him to read the first book until after it was published. It was cold feet on my part. He's a serious, highly skilled and respected newspaper editor. I feared his reaction to my rambunctious fiction style.

Do you have children? Ages?

Has your writing talent rubbed off on them?

We have two adult sons, Trent and Dave. Both of them do scientific writing associated with their jobs in chemistry and marine biology. I don't know if they've tried writing fiction. They should. They write well.

Were you born and raised in Oregon? www.deltalivingmagazine.com

I grew up in Burbank, CA, and moved to Oregon after I graduated from what was then San Fernando Valley State College.

Mitford, North Carolina. I also have a collection of Christmas books that I re-read every December.

In high school, what stereotyped category did you fit into?

Definitely more social than brainy . . .

What music do you like?

Country. The Zac Brown Band is my favorite.

What sort of "extra-curricular" activities do you enjoy when you're not writing?

My husband and I ride a tandem bike and play tennis (badly.)

I enjoy going to the Oregon Coast, but still miss the warmth and sand of the California beaches. I like gardening, but I'm better at planting than watering.

Do you religiously watch any TV shows or movies?

Public Broadcasting's Doc Martin is one I never miss. I also like HGTV's home renovation programs that let you enjoy all the remodeling and redecorating without the mess of the project in your own home.

Favorite holiday? Why? Thanksgiving. It's about family and food and there's no fuss about gift selection. July 4th would be a close second.

Rules you live by?

Play nice(ly). Be honest and helpful.

Kathy can be reached at DesignerMysteries@gmail.com and she answers all e-mail. The two books are available on www.amazon.com.

She says, “The third book in the series is coming. Honestly, it is. I just have to mull over a few plot snags before I sit down at the computer keyboard.”

Do you miss being a middle school principal?

Being around middle school kids energized me. There's always something unexpected happening.

I miss that.

Favorite foods?

Pomegranate and cotton candy, but not together.

Favorite "cheat-on-your-dietday" food?

My guilty pleasure is salted cashews and real Coke with all the calories, all the caffeine, and all the artificial color.

Who are your heroes?

I like "surprise heroes," the ordinary people who happen on the scene and don't think twice about leaping into action to rescue another person who is in trouble.

Which authors are your favorites?

Jennifer Crusie, who writes laugh-out-loud light fiction and romance, is a favorite. Her book Agnes and the Hitman is a good place to start. There's also Michael Connelly and his character "Harry Bosch." If I go back a few years, I totally enjoyed reading Jan Karon's Mitford series of stories set in the tiny fictional town of

Photos by Charleen Earley April – June 2014

21

7&

Ways to Lead a Fulfilling

By Dr. Danielle Dowling d@danielle-dowling.com

W

e love to bandy the word "empowered" about, don’t we? We see it in on the cover of self-help books, our yoga teacher breathes it in our ear during Sukhasana, and it fills the taglines of one million life coaches, the world over.

But what does it even mean?

When we peel back the layers, what are we talking about when we talk about empowerment? We’re saying we want control over our lives. That we can give ourselves permission to do just about anything.

We’re the ones driving this car.

And when we’re really, truly empowered, we feel alive; connected; at peace.Well, that certainly sounds nice, doesn’t it? Here are seven ways you can feel more peaceful and empowered — starting today.

Use visualization to release your painful thoughts.

1

In your mind’s eye, place negative thoughts on leaves and watch them gently float away downstream, or place the troubling words on cars of a freight train and watch them zoom into the distance. When I do these exercises, I place distance between myself and what’s bothering me; I feel lighter and brighter almost immediately.

Ask someone else (or the universe) for what you need most.

2

Maybe you need someone to listen to you

Empowered Life

or to help you problem-solve. Maybe you need a favor, a massage, a date with your partner or friend. I regularly ask the universe for a message, and I always get what’s perfect for me at the time.

Be productive.

3

Nothing cures anxiety like action, and the effort we put into avoiding things is usually about triple the effort required to actually do that thing. Productivity makes you feel clever and driven and accomplished – it elevates your mood significantly. Once I get one thing done, I feel a (sometimes disproportionate) sense of accomplishment, and I’m usually motivated to get other things done. So look around you and start something.

4

Focus on the thought “I trust that what is in my and the world’s highest interest will manifest,” or “I know I can afford to relax.”

I surrender my attachment to outcome. Release the need to have all the answers upfront.

Get out of your own way. Stop interrupting the flow of what is on its way to you – don’t try to manipulate and manage every moment of your life.

Marvel in collaboration.

5

The world is one gigantic partnership of human beings. Whether you’re a people-person or an introvert, have the courage to see people as teammates rather than competition.There are so many things we simply cannot do without the help of others.

Look around. Outside of the natural world,

everything you see has been thought of by a human, designed by a human, or made by a human. Spectacular, no? We never meet the majority of people who touch our lives, but knowing that almost every part of our day is possible because of what another human dreamed up is totally breathtaking.

Let love in.

6

Practice adaptability.

7

Surround yourself with loving and supportive relationships. Filling your life with people who lift you up changes everything – your health, your energy levels, how you feel about your career, who you date.

We all deserve to be in rich, nourishing relationships; you also have the right to give yourself space and distance in certain relationships, and to release others altogether. Practice forgiving those who have let you down or hurt you.

They were only doing the best they could with what they have and if they could do better, they would. If they don’t love themselves, it’s difficult to know how to love someone else.

Change is one of the only certain things in life, so we might as well try to accept it and view it as a positive.You might not be able to control life events, but you can control how you respond to them. So bend a little, look around the corner to see what’s coming, inspect that cloud for its silver lining, and have faith that this, too, is a learning experience.

We often view personal peace and empowerment as nearly impossible goals – something reserved for monks on far-flung mountaintops.

But the truth is, even the most stressed of us can create a space for inner peace and personal power. It’s yours for the taking.

Dr. Danielle Dowling is a life coach, psychologist and blogger. She’s an intuitive strategist working with women who are ready to stop compromising on the things that matter most – self-realization, soulful companionship and accessing innate power. Her goal is to motivate women to live inspiring lives; to help them experience a life better lived and to help women achieve their dreams whatever they may be. When she’s not coaching or clicking away on her keyboard you can find Danielle out in nature – the blue skies and greenery of Southern California light her up, hanging out with her lovely fiancé, drinking a green juice, stretching her way through yoga or laughing it up with close girlfriends! Connect with Danielle on www.twitter.com/DDowling_ and www.pinterest.com/dedowling/. Ready to really step up your game?

Hire her www.danielle-dowling.com.You won’t regret it.

22

April – June 2014

www.deltalivingmagazine.com

Basic Foundation to Amazing Hair

By Emily Wesolek

emilyw1722@gmail.com

M

any times I am asked how to make hair more voluptuous, shiny, silky, smooth and so forth. So when I asked what products they use at home, they simply say “shampoo and conditioner.” Although shampoo and conditioner are good starting points, how can you expect so much out of your hair by just using shampoo and conditioner?

Think about it this way: you wouldn’t have a house with just a cement floor and a roof, right? You need walls, insulation, and protection from outside elements, just to name a few.Your hair needs those same things too.

Here is the basic foundation to amazing hair that everyone should follow: PRIMING: Begin with a good shampoo and conditioner that targets your specific hair. For example, if you color your hair (or get highlights), use a shampoo and conditioner that is specifically made for color-treated hair. Also buy your products at professional salons. Buying from Walmart, Safeway, CVS, etc. are usually more expensive.

HYDRATING: Use a good leave-in detangler. After lightly towel-drying your hair, spray in a leave-in detangler.These products are great

for your hair and have many purposes, such as detangling the hair and adding shine. Many help protect the hair from thermal styling too.

A product called IT’S A 10 is a leave-in detangler that helps nourish and hydrate, and not to mention, smells great too! Another great leavein detangler (and one I personally use on a daily basis) is Matrix Biolage Keratin-Dose. Not only does it smell amazing, but it’s great for all types of hair, and leaves hair extra shiny and silky.

Both of these products can be found at JCPenney salon in Antioch.

STYLING: An oil or serum is also very important, because they both help further protect the hair from thermal styling tools, as well as add shine and hydration. These products help tame frizz and flyaways, and leaves hair silky and smooth. I personally use a serum by Aquage called Silkening Oil Treatment. My hair is very fine and I don’t have a lot of hair, so with oils and serums, I have to be extra careful that it’s not too heavy, which can leave hair looking oily and weigh it down. When I finally found this product, I was ecstatic! It not only adds loads of shine, but it also leaves hair silky and soft.

Because it’s weightless, it doesn’t weigh my hair down, nor does it make my hair feel heavy or greasy.You can find this awesome product, and other Aquage products, at Holy Hair Salon on First Street in downtown Brentwood, CA. THERMALIZING: When using hot tools, your hair needs extra protection. If you are one to use blow dryers, flat-irons or curling irons, make sure you use a heat protector spray or thermal spray. This helps protect hair from

the heat and also adds shine. Be mindful of the temperature of your blow dryer, flat-iron and curling irons; you do not need to have it at the highest temperature – doing so will make your hair dry, brittle and will eventually break your hair. A great heat-protector spray is called Iron Guard by CHI. TEXTURIZING: Make your hair stand out.

Using waxes, pastes and pomades gives hair more movement and makes the hair a little more pieced out (or textured.) These products are great for haircuts that have layers, pixie/ short cuts and are very versatile for many men’s hairstyles. A great texturizing product for both men and women is BedHead Manipulator – it has a great (gender neutral) smell and is great for adding a little bit of texture to the hair. For men, it’s very versatile, whether you’re looking for that short, spikey look or more of a slickedback look. This product can be found at both JCPenney and Holy Hair.

FINISHING: Everything needs to be finetuned and polished. Last but not least, spray a little shine spray to give hair that extra sheen and shine as well as tame any stray flyaways.

Hairsprays are also great and come in many different forms; some are finishing sprays, which may have a little firmer hold than others, as well as working spray, which allows you to spray where needed, but you’re still able to work the hair where you want it to go.

Each step is a key component to having great hair. Whenever possible, buy good, professional products. Great places to buy these amazing products are at professional salons. Make sure to buy the necessary products for your hair, and your hair will have a better foundation.

Photos of Maria Tavares www.deltalivingmagazine.com

April – June 2014

23

Delta Living Magazine 2014 Photo Contest RULES ...

• Original/non-published work • 1 photo per person • Entrant can be any age • Color-only, 300dpi, at least 1MB size • Any subject / Appropriate for all ages • Ex: Artsy, creative, emotional, educational, etc.

DEADLINE: April 30, 2014 WINNERS ...

10 winners, top 5 published on Delta Smilz page in July issue, with photo credit and caption. All 10 winners published on www.deltalivingmagazine.com.

JUDGES ...

Richard Wisdom, Photographer for The Press, Ken Perkes, Owner of Perkes Photography, Jennifer Fink, Owner of Generations Photography, Steve Nosanchuk/Owner/Photographer of Steve's Freelance Photography.

Submit your photos to: DLMphotocontest@gmail.com

Delta Living Magazine 2014 Writing Contest The Rules ...

• Original/non-published work • Entrant can be any age • 800 words or less (over 800 words disqualifies) • Error-free • Appropriate subject for all ages • No poetry (sorry) • Examples: fiction, non-fiction, humor, human interest, sports, etc.

Deadline: April 30, 2014 The Winners ...

First place: Story published with byline, headshot and brief bio in July 2014 Delta Living Magazine.

2nd, 3rd, 4th, and honorable mention - names listed in print issue of July 2014 issue. Stories with byline, photo and brief bio posted on www.deltalivingmagazine.com.

24

April – June 2014

The Judges ...

Rick Lemyre, Co-Founder of The Brentwood Press, Ruth Roberts/Managing Editor at The Press, Amanda Dove, Managing Editor of Delta Sun Times, Sarah Villec, Advertising Director for the Dixon Tribune and General Manager for the River News Herald/ Rio Vista.

Submission: DLMwritercontest@gmail.com

www.deltalivingmagazine.com

Delta Living Magazine presents‌

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D E LTA L I V I N G April – June 2014

25

DELTA DINING

So You Wanna Be a Chef eh?

Before dipping into the pot of stew … read this first

By Chef Mark Anthony mas.onward@gmail.com

Note from Publisher: My sister Rita Caruso of Discovery Bay (a loan officer by trade) has “chef” in her blood. She got the cookingbug from our late grandma Pauline Fredenberg (Nani), and recently decided to continue (in her downtime) her longtime goal of becoming an amazing, bonafide chef. So I connected her to Chef Mark Anthony, a friend of one of my writers and pastry chef, Noreen Nagao.

He’s a 33-year tenure Culinarian and touts a personality that blends the style and culture of the many places he’s worked and lived, from San Francisco and Santa Fe, to Paris, France and Cape Town, South Africa. He says he’s “an eclectic one who doesn’t have any one particular style, rather a strong foundational love of food and the vast cultures behind them.” Rita sent him an email soliciting advice and below is what he wrote. When I read his email to her (she shared, I didn’t snoop) I thought, WOW. What if our readers feel the same as my sissy? If this is the case, then bon appetite on this piece.

T

o begin with Rita, I suggest taking your brain out from the corporate environment where you worked and drop it into the cesspool mindsets of the people and the industry you’re considering (don’t laugh, its true).

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April – June 2014

Read a book from a great chef ’s perspective like Anthony Bourdain’s “Kitchen Confidential.” It’s a book that should be read by everyone in the industry. It is absolutely hilarious, while at the same time, absolutely pure truth.

If it’s the Culinary Arts you are looking to get into, we must first break down and separate the two words for a more clear understanding.

Culinary:

This is the easy part and also the most difficult. The cooking part, well that’s easy. But it’s the depth of your knowledge of all food and food stuff, and learning how to bring together all five of your senses coupled with that knowledge.This will take time and I dare use the word “years,” but I must.

It’s scientific; not just knowledge of what tastes good together.

Why food does what it does when cooking it and knowing what to do, if it must be fixed, especially “on the fly.” (Kitchen term meaning hurry up, high step it or move your ass.)

It’s physical; good knives as well as good knife skills must be acquired and learned (again years).

So prepare yourself in this process of learning to lose tips of fingers, shave off your fingernails, stab, cut, slice and burn permanent scars on your hands, fingers and arms. Keep in mind that you’ll be expected

Photos courtesy of Chef Mark Anthony Santiago, a dear friend from Mexico City, was instrumental with touring the port city of Progreso Yucatán, locating the docks for us to purchase a fish “FOB” from local fishermen to have for dinner.

to stay, regardless of how bad you think it is or how much it hurts.

You can go to the doctor on your time, not theirs. (Did you laugh when I mentioned war earlier?)

You can forget about manicures, long fingernails and polish, or jewelry in or around your hands, including bracelets, bangles, etc.

Arts:

To be in the Arts, you either are or are not an “artist.” When most hear the word artist, Van Gogh, Renoir, de Vinci and Monet come to mind.Yet all of which had some crazy quirk about them. Artists, sadly, are an extremely passionate, egotistical often misunderstood bunch. They walk a different path in life, if you will.

Chefs outside the kitchen are seemingly normal human beings,

however, put them in a kitchen and something quirky happens.

You’ve put a brush in their hands to paint, and paint they do; signing their name to every plate, menu, banquet, event and/or function.

Do it differently than he or she; expect to hear about it; nor should you expect hearing about it in private, or in a tactful manner.

Don’t verbally retaliate; there is an old saying in the kitchen: #1) The Chef is always right #2) If you don’t agree with the Chef, refer to number 1 You’ll be entering into a family full of the most dysfunctional, drama-filled, very colorful characters of all ages and maturity levels you will ever meet.

The word professional.... yeah, www.deltalivingmagazine.com

DELTA DINING

“YOU CAN NOT ENTER THIS INDUSTRY FOR THE MONEY; I cannot stress this enough if I tried!” leave your idea of that word at the door.Within this environment that word takes on a whole new genre.

These folks are broken down between FOH (front of house) and BOH (back of house) in the list below, and in this industry, they don’t hide it or at least very well, anyway.

Foreigners: who are more than happy to tell you what they think of Americans, can’t or can but won’t, speak your language, don’t or won’t understand the culture they have chosen to live in BUT won’t return to theirs.

Students: Culinary or college, who are always happy to remind you how smart they are in

comparison to you.

Alcoholics: Either full blown and in denial, recovering, or on the wagon or just fell off ... again.

Drug Addicts: You may insert the alcoholic’s statement here too.

Felons: (Because it’s one of the only industries where they can work, because it doesn’t handle money and either they just got out, or about to go back in.

Perverts: Always happy to tell you about their most recent escapades, as well as stare at you or who or whatever has turned them on at that moment.

Bohemians: Tattooed and pierced in full; and in areas you didn’t even know possible let

alone why.

Stoners: Not part of drug addicts, but you will realize they are, once you actually speak to them when they’re not high.

Haters: Need I say anything more?

Know-it-alls: Need I say more here.

Religious: Newly or settled, I am a believer, Christ is my savior though, not my religion, but we’re in there too.

Decent: Few and far between but sprinkled in for good measure.

I don’t know you, I would think this is your category Rita, hopefully mine as well, which actually might include your idea of professional.

Jocks: Sports, stats and figures, they have forgotten more than you’ll ever know and love to debate with others when they’re not agreed with, all night long.

Red Necks: The complete opposite of jocks, who always have a dip in.

And to think Rita, I haven’t even reached the pros and cons yet, but happy to inform you, we’re here now.

We’ll start with the cons, which will be the proving grounds:

The Cons:

Rita Caruso of Discovery Bay, who learned the ropes of working the line (and more) at Trilogy at the Vineyards in Brentwood, dreams of one day becoming a chef.

www.deltalivingmagazine.com

Work every night, every weekend including Sundays,and EVERY HOLIDAY known to man.

If you have any children, I hope they are old enough to take care of themselves in all areas. Pets: good luck with that unless it’s a cat. Dogs are a different story.

Begin to prepare your standing strength as there will days when you are on your feet anywhere from 8 to 14 hours a day for five, sometimes six days a week. That’s 40 to 60 hours a week. I only wear Birkenstocks. Getting yourself ready to wear those is painful in itself, so read on the benefits of them and what it will take to prepare your

entire body for them. However, if you’re going to be standing all day, it’s worth the effort to go through.

Start now. I wear the “Boston.”

“Clopens” is a close shift one night and open shift the next (by closing I mean NOT home, showered and in bed by 10 p.m.Try midnight to 3 a.m. and back to work as early as 5, 6 or 7 a.m. sometimes).

Sleeping will become a luxury.

Relationships: Are you in one?

Expect that relationship to become part-time as the new career you’re considering will be your new lover, which is often, not very loving. What does that mean exactly?

There will be days when you get home, tippy-toe in so as not to wake anyone and you will tippytoe out the door, back to work so not to wake anyone.

You’ll be preparing a whole bunch of good food, wonderfully presented and raved about from the customer, but you certainly won’t have time to eat any of it.You’ll be too tired to even eat it or just plain sick of looking at it as well as eating it; it will actually begin to all taste the same.

While you love to cook now and are clearly passionate about it, that may change after a few months of working the hours you’ll be expected to.You won’t want to come home and cook for friends, let alone yourself or family members.

YOU CAN NOT ENTER THIS INDUSTRY FOR THE MONEY; I cannot stress this enough if I tried!

Expect to be viewed and spoken to as a servant or slave. People will be quick to vent on you, to let you know in a matter of words that you are beneath them and how rude you are to not have considered them above all else first, and that you have ruined their entire day.

Do not expect general common courtesy on a regular basis from the people you work with, your peers, or the customers you are serving.

April – June 2014

2727

DELTA DINING

“I urge you to never say no to any food, except if you went out with Andrew Zimmern of Bizarre foods, but even he’s tried some things I possibly would. For instance I have had mamponi worms in South Africa.”

Okay, I think that’s enough of the cons. Believe it or not, that is just the tip of the iceberg.

The Pros:

Within the hotels, the travel opportunities are immense. You’re always able to stay at any one in the U.S. or abroad for free or for an amazing employee rate.

You will meet and experience vast cultures from its occupants.

Plus you will also receive some of the best training in the hotel field.

Once you understand the hierarchy, the opportunities are endless. I suggest beginning this journey in a 4 or 5 star hotel if possible. A well-run hotel kitchen could improve the chances on accomplishing the goals you’ve set for yourself. A wealth of culinary & organizational blueprints to soak up. The networking possibilities are also endless. That was how I ended up in France and South Africa. Your Rolodex of names would, could and should be vast.

If you really, truly love to cook, you will learn more than your mind can currently fathom, thus I urge you to get a strong foundation of the basic French culinary techniques.

You will begin to learn the world of wines, as wine is food and the buzz is just a bonus.Why certain foods go well with certain wines and step out of the reds with meats

Photo by Chef Mark Anthony One of the many street cooks in Mérida, Mexico making tacos.

and whites with fish-box.We all are students in that area as it is as deep as the culinary knowledge you seek.

Your palate will expand to first understand and then enjoy authentic foods from other cultures you only dreamed of eating. For example, Indian, Chinese and Latin cuisine outside the U.S. are a whole lot different than that in the U.S.; a real mind and eye-opener.

Eating together with someone who doesn’t speak you’re language is amazing. “The food on the dinner table” crosses all boundaries and borders.

“Assemble the Chariot” (L-R) Ilya Kolozs and Chef Mark Anthony en route to Progreso Yucatán, passenger class.

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April – June 2014

Chef Mark Anthony with two locals from the state of Chiapa, Mexico in full normal dress.

I urge you to never say no to any food, except if you went out with Andrew Zimmern of Bizarre foods, but even he’s tried some things I possibly would. For instance I have had mamponi worms in South Africa.

Once this journey begins, you will grow your collection of cook books like you never have before.

You will come across music that you never considered listening to or even heard of.You will see some of the most beautiful art, too. You might get the opportunity to learn a new language, new culture or new custom, because you have to when you live and work in that country.

You will be introduced into the world of cocktails, not jack and coke, or gin and tonics, but liqueurs you have never heard of, let alone tasted. You’ll understand the difference between a mixologist and a bartender. I’m sure you’ve been a customer where they are, but it’s different when you begin to learn what they actually do, i.e. making their own bitters, etc. – it’s as deep as wine and food.

You will have an entirely new appreciation as a customer, thinking

twice before getting upset about an evening gone wrong.You become a more generous tipper as well.

So you see Rita, there is so much involved. You will be put through the ringer; under more pressure than you’ve ever imagined, your patience will be tested and you’ll be baptized by fire. You’ll be yelled at, cussed at, things will be thrown at you. You will see blood, sweat and tears.You’ll be laughed at, gossiped about, physically handled, you will be offered every drug known to man with some sort of cocktail accompanying it- while at the very same time you will laugh, eat some of the best and most expensive and rare food you ever will try, taste wines that are older than you (and that you can’t afford and probably will never see again). You will go to the greatest parties, see the most beautiful homes, rooms and kitchens. All of which could very well happen on the same shift in one 24-hour period and if, AND I MEAN IF, Rita, you wake up the next day and think, “I had a great, fun, eventful day yesterday” and go back and start it again, then you have what it takes. www.deltalivingmagazine.com

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April – June 2014

29

Sick But Not Out of the Game Joy Love Williams Waits for New Lungs Story and photos by Maria Tavares mrh_tavares@yahoo.com

J

oy Love Williams is a woman with a kind heart and a genuinely caring spirit, who cherishes every day given to her because she is fighting for her life.

Diagnosed in June, 2012 with an Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD), more specifically, Sarcoidosis, Joy, 41, is on a transplant list for new lungs.

She has to stay as healthy as possible while traveling to many appointments for tests all over the Bay Area. If any health issues were to develop before receiving a lung, she could be removed from the recipient list.

On a first-impression basis, minus the tiny, portable, almost purse-like oxygen pack she has to carry around, her smile masks any trace she is living with an illness. Her given name suits her. She is not one to let her disease rule her life. If there is anyone who knows the value of a moment, it’s Joy. Sarcoidosis is an inflammatory disease that causes your immune system to attack parts of your body, which in Joy’s case, means her right lung has already sustained permanent damage and it is slowly making its way to her left.

Joy says the damage to her lungs stems from “frequent colds and viruses, infections, bronchitis, and having pneumonia (twice).” Although the cause of sarcoidosis cannot be pinpointed, she has to “KEEP HEALTHY” along with a

Ray Williams, Joy's father, is CEO of The Kidney Education Association and a huge supporter of the fundraisers held to help pay for Joy's medical expenses.

30

April – June 2014

positive outlook: “I was told that I'm the type who tells the negative committee, that meets inside our heads, to sit down and be quiet; there isn't any room for negative thoughts,” she said.

Much speculation circles around the factors that cause this type of disease, such as poor ventilation in a workplace, airborne toxins, exposure to bacteria and other chemicals, or having the genetics that trigger the immune system to kick-start the inflammation that mostly occurs in the body's lymph nodes and lungs (but is not limited to the eyes, skin, kidneys, heart, brain; just to name a few).

To date, Joy's treatments include “medication, oxygen therapy 24/7, pulmonary rehab” and ultimately a lung transplant. She says those are “the key factors [for] people like me with ILD, to live full, satisfying lives.”

As the confusion and on-and-off medical leaves from work progressed, of course she felt “shocked, disbelief, scared, angry, sad and exhausted” when she was finally able to put a medical name to the causes of her physical condition.

Currently, Joy lives in her parents’ home in Pittsburg, CA until they get a handle on her illness. Mattie, Joy's mother, a former secretary for the San Francisco Chronicle's Circulation Department, and a retired Hospice Aid from Kaiser Permanente, focuses on her two most important patients: Joy and Joy's father, Ray. Ray, who campaigns for The Kidney Education Association, is also a diabetic on in-home dialysis, preparing to get on the kidney transplant list, and attending college for a degree in accounting.

“I truly admire his perseverance to continue, sick or not!” said Joy. Ray is a tremendous help in raising funds for Joy's lung transplant and the costs for her recovery. A requirement of a lung transplant after hospitalization, is spending six weeks in the area, no more than a half hour away from UCSF Medical Center (Joy's hospital), for all follow up appointments. Joy plans to use any funds raised before her transplant for a hotel room with a kitchenette, access to parking, and a laundry facility on-site.

She and her family would love to hear from

Joy Love Williams wears a custom shirt with a picture drawn by a friend, depicting a woman with her heart and lungs on display, to raise awareness for her disease.

anyone with hotel-connections for temporary housing in San Francisco, near UCSF. Long before diagnoses, Joy was an active member of the Napata and The Chocolate Kisses Band. She was a wedding singer and joined the band in 1992 as a single mother, working as a cocktail waitress in a lounge in Berkeley, CA, and was discovered on her break in the ladies' room, singing out loud. After 13 years with the band, she went on to sing with other bands all over the Bay Area. For now, she assists with booking the gigs. Even though she has been on medical leave since June 2013, her Administrative Assistant I position in the Equipment Finances Department in San Francisco, awaits her healthy return.

A woman with an enlightening spirit, Joy believes that “disease and health” are rooted in thought. “Sickly thoughts will express themselves through a sickly body,” she says. It is a choice of hers, every day, to stay positive.

“I love life! I believe life is what you make it to be,” she adds. “I'm a passionate advocate for the uplifting, inspirational way of living. I've always been this way. Yes, I'm sick, but not out of the game.”

To make a tax-deductible donation for Joy through The National Foundation for Transplants, and read more about her disease, visit http://patients.transplants.org/ joylovewilliams. Send inquiries for future fundraisers or comments to Joy’s father, Ray Richardson, CEO of The Kidney Education Association at info@TKEA.org. www.deltalivingmagazine.com

DELTA SMILZ

Photo by Linda Mathias ch, CA on rsville Towne Center Mall Atrium in Antio Sponsored by Mall management, Some the Magi; are myrrh and gold se, incen nting frank Jan. 6, the Feast of the Three Kings, prese with the res pictu and enjoyed song, cake, prizes Balthazar, Caspar and Melchior. Families ndez.

Ferna Rudy and lig Rueh r Walte n, ooria Kings, represented by (L-R) Richard Asad

Photo by Lisa Taylor (L-R) Finalist Jacob Janzen, finalist Paul Ramirez, finalist Chiedu Meta, English teacher and Speech Coach Ms. Tacy Heath, finalist Ava Alvarez, winner Kelly Hunt, and finalist Allison Rohlfs. On Feb. 4, 2014, Heritage High School sophomore Kelly Hunt competed along with five Heritage finalists (above) to win the 77th Annual Lions Student Speakers Contest, sponsored by the local Byron Delta Lions Club. The topic for this year’s contest: “Commun ity Service – What Does it Mean and Why Does it Matter?”

Springtime at the Boardwalk Grill in Discovery Bay, CA Photos by Jennifer Cordero

Dayanna and Irlandha with mom and dad Alejandra and Humberto Ceja of Oakley, CA.

Lisa and Brian Davis Discovery Bay, CA.

(L-R) Kaitlyn (16), Mikalia (11), cousin Kelsey Willard (21) of Pennysylvania, Noelle (15), and Caralyne (9) of Discovery Bay, CA.

www.deltalivingmagazine.com

(L-R) Siblings Shayla (9), Allysa (11) and Gabriel Bradley (5) of Brentwood, CA.

Trudy Curto Newlyweds of 7 mos., Alex Manzano and

of Brentwood, CA.

April – June 2014

31

DELTA ADVERTORIAL

Casa Ferratt Mexican & American Cuisine

Photos by Maria Tavares

Located at A the corner of Family and Friendly

new Mexican restaurant moved into Oakley’s neighborhood, but owners Vina and Phil Ferratt are not new to the business. Combined, the two bring over 25 years’ experience to the table and are excited to bring quality food and service to their customers.

“We opened on March 1 and are already enjoying repeat customers!” said Vina Ferratt, who says their primary goal is providing outstanding service.

Dishes already making the fave-list with their customers are the Camarones a la Diabla (shrimp served with rice, beans, guacamole, pico de gallo and tortillas), fish tacos, birria (marinated goat meat), enchiladas, menudo, posole and chile rellenos – made with the freshest ingredients daily.

“I had a customer come in and warned me up front that he’s very picky when it comes to chile rellenos. Just watching him eat it, made me nervous because he ate it very quietly.When he was done, he told me it was the most amazing chile relleno he’d ever had,” said Vina. “He even added a nice comment on Yelp about how much he loved it.”

Birria 32

April – June 2014

Owners Vina and Phil Ferratt with daughter Ava.

A big part of their customer service is making sure children get their lunches and dinners first.

“Our priority is the kids, so we make sure their meals come out first. When the kids are happy, parents can relax and enjoy their meals,” said Vina, whose fouryear-old daughter Ava, sometimes answers the restaurant phone.

“She runs to get the phone first, so if she answers it, don’t hang up, you got the right number!”

Bacon or sausage and egg

Kids also get a free cup of ice cream after dinner – just another detail in making the dining experience great for the entire family.

Phil Ferratt, a retired, professional boxer, and manager at the Elephant Bar Restaurant in Concord, uses a personal philosophy in running their restaurant.

“I tell all my employees to come to work physically, emotionally and mentally 100%,” he said. “This is the best way to ap-

Chicken Wings www.deltalivingmagazine.com

DELTA ADVERTORIAL proach life, because as far as I know, we only live once. You must take pride in what you do.”

Pride and giving 100% shines through their food offerings, since Vina and Phil cater to those craving not just Mexican food, but American cuisine as well.

“On the American side, we offer Blackened Salmon Salad, Grilled Chicken Salad, Caesar Salad, calamari or sweet potato fries for appetizers, bacon cheese burgers, chicken tenders and BLT’s,” said Vina. “We found that most of the time, families with kids tend to order American, rather than Mexican, so we wanted to make sure everyone gets what they want.”

While Phil misses boxing, he said he still gets his “fix” by floating around the tables talking with diners and keeping that center-of-attention feeling going.

The family-owned restaurant supports local schools and non-profit fundraisers and hold memberships to Emeryville, El Cerrito, Berkeley and Albany Chambers of Commerce.

“Our vision at Casa Ferratt is to make this a family-friendly restaurant. We want you to bring your first date here, your date-night here, bring your family and relax after a hard days’ work to enjoy a great meal,” said Phil. “We don’t want you to feel rushed. We take pride that we are taking care of you!”

Casa Ferratt Mexican & American Cuisine 3587 Main Street Oakley, CA 94561

Mon-Fri 10am to 8pm • Sat 9am-8pm Sun 9am-6pm.

925.679.8665

Photos by Maria Taveres

Carne Asada www.deltalivingmagazine.com

Super Burrito Wet

Camarones a la Diabla April – June 2014

33

Tenderloin Medallions

Photo by Leena Wheeler

Winning Cutthroat Kitchen Never Tasted So Good Stockton Chef Michael Midgley talks about cooking on TV

By Charleen Earley

charleenbearley@gmail.com

D

on’t be fooled by Michael Midgley’s charming dimples and flipped back, plaid newsboy cap … when he’s in the kitchen, the challenge-ready chef is ready to take his opponents down, one dish at a time.

Like he did on the Food Network’s Cutthroat Kitchen, hosted

by Alton Brown, which aired on Jan. 12, 2014. Pitted against three chefs, Midgley says his opponents were out to sabotage him beginning with the first round.

“I got 20 minutes taken away from me and had to cook chicken parmesan in 10 minutes instead of 30,” laughs Midgley now. “They took all my tomato products too, and I had to use tomato Jell-O instead.”

His lactose-free chicken parmesan made the cut – obstacles and all – only proving his prowess in the kitchen and desire to win.

Born and raised in Stockton, 34

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Photo by Charleen Earley Winner of the Food Network’s Cutthroat Kitchen, Chef Michael Midgley works his culinary magic at Ernie’s Food & Spirits located in Manteca. He loves coming out to greet his fans and diners at the upscale restaurant during the course of the evening.

Midgley, 35, says his wife Laci is the one who first encouraged him to take his culinary smarts to reality television, where he went to a casting call for Bravo’s TV show, Top Chef, Season 2 in 2006.

“She told me ‘if you’re so badass, you should do it!’” recalls Midgley, father of three kids ages five and under, with Laci.

After personality screenings, interviews, flying to LA and back, he made the cut along with 14 other chefs, and was the tenth contestant to finally be eliminated. Meeting Anthony Bourdain was a highpoint for him.

“He’s straight up. He’s a cool guy,” said Midgley, whose love for cooking began well before he got a driver’s license.

“I started working in a restaurant at 14 with a worker’s permit,” he says. “My first job was at the Elkhorn Country Club in Stockton. I started as a dish washer, then prep and cooking.”

Even before prep work, Midgley says he came from a family of cooks. “My family is really into food. We’d do the big dinner on Sundays; grandma always baked pies and my dad would cook up a bunch of red sauce.”

Midgley earned his AOS Degree at the California Culinary Academy in San Francisco and www.deltalivingmagazine.com

throughout the years, worked in various restaurants to include Wine & Roses in Lodi. He opened Stooges of Lodi before starting his own catering company called, Midgley Catering.

Currently Midgley creates many of his own culinary specialties at Ernie’s Food & Spirits, a luxury boutique restaurant in Manteca, where General Manager (also longtime friend and neighbor) Bryan Soria, has nothing but positive things to say.

“I’ve known Michael for a long time and he’s so funny. He’s such a talented chef too,” said Soria. “I’m happy for him with everything he’s got going for himself.”

During the second round on Cutthroat Kitchen, Midgley says opponents swapped out his knives for knives that were chained to a ball.

Based on the strategy of the show, chefs are given $25,000 to bid and purchase unique items to bestow upon another chef, in order to make cooking more difficult.

“I purchased rubber gloves for one of the chefs, but she ended up working well with them!” says Midgley.

Making it to final round three, Midgley had to bake with a child-sized Suzy Homemaker-

Honey Mustard Crusted Rack of Lamb

Entrée photos by Leena Wheeler All three photographed dishes are served at Ernie’s Food & Spirits in Manteca at www.erniesfoodandspirits.com and are Chef Michael Midgley’s own recipes, found in his new e-book called, Mike Midgley 20 Easy Recipes: Awesome Food Anyone Can Make! Purchase for $2.99 on Amazon at http://amzn.to/1pDyB0L for your Kindle Reader and Kindle app. Also available at iBookstore and Barnes and Noble.

type oven to bake a strawberry shortcake. It seemed to be the lowest of lows for his final round.

“Even Alton Brown couldn’t believe it. He said he would’ve just given up and left,” recalls Midgley. “I felt like a bull in a China shop!”

Despite all challenges, he won the judges over with his dessert.

“I was proud to win. It’s amazing to do something out of those circumstances – it was pretty extreme,” says Midgley, who emerges from Ernie’s kitchen to visit restaurant diners at least once an evening to greet fans. “I try not to take food too serious. I’m not curing cancer.When I’m home, I eat frozen burritos!”

Even with four TV shows and multiple

episodes under his culinary belt, Chef Michael Midgley doesn’t call himself a celeb.

“I wouldn’t call myself a celebrity of any sorts, because I grew up thinking actors and athletes were celebrities,” he said. “I went to culinary school because I thought it was a school I could pass and I liked to eat and cook. Now people think they’re going to be the next celebrity chef on the Food Network.

Most of the great chefs who are famous never got into cooking for fame, it was just a job.

All of these guys became celebrity chefs by accident.” www.midgleycatering.com www.erniesfoodandspirits.com

Five Onion Soup

Photo by Charleen Earley

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April – June 2014

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E A S T BAY H O U S I N G O R G A N I Z AT I O N S C E L E B R AT E S & K I C K S - O F F

Our Annual Affordable Housing Week 3 0 Y E A R S : B U I LT T O L A S T

East Bay Housing Organizations (EBHO) invites you to a special celebration kicking off our Annual Affordable Housing Week and EBHO’s 30th Anniversary!

Friday, May 9, 2014 • 6–8:30 pm Scottish Rite Center, 1547 Lakeside Drive, Oakland Event sponsorship opportunities available.

For more information, please contact: Earp Events & Fundraising at 510-839-3100 or events@earpevents.com

EBHO.org

celebration

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For 30 years, EBHO and our 350 members have been the leading advocacy voice promoting affordable housing opportunities in Alameda and Contra Costa Counties.

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