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February 27, 2015
925.672.0500 PEGGY SPEAR
Master Developers present plans for Naval Weapons site
TIM GRAYSON
MAYOR
The dawn of new development The long-awaited advent of the actual development of the former Naval Weapons Station is upon us. We have started the interview stage of selecting the Master Developer. It is both an exciting and heavy responsibility and, quite frankly, I am looking forward to the process with eager anticipation. Once that selection is made the process
See Mayor, page 5
Photo courtesy of the City of Concord
THE LONG-AWAITED DEVELOPMENT OF THE CONCORD NAVAL WEAPONS STATION took a big leap forward this month when the three firms vying for Master Developer unveiled their preliminary plans. City officials hope to select the final candidate by early summer.
Concord Pioneer
Concord residents got their first good look at the scope and vision of the future of the Concord Naval Weapons Station earlier this month when the three firms competing to execute that vision unveiled their plans before the city council, acting as the Local Reuse Authority. Packed crowds — so much so that an overflow room was needed — jammed the city council chambers on Feb. 10 and 11 for special meetings to see the initial presentations from Master Developer candidates Catellus, Lennar Urban and SunCal. The three firms were announced as finalists in the land development sweepstakes earlier this year, and their presentations focused on just the first phase of development surrounding the North Concord BART station. Michael Wright, executive director of the Reuse project, underscored that this was just
See CNWS, page 9
Running for life: How one Concord woman beat her disease A diagnosis of Amyloidosis didn’t stop Kim Ottone Tank in her tracks. CYNTHIA GREGORY Concord Pioneer
One day, back in June of 2013, Concord’s Kim Ottone Tank was at home treating a running injury she developed participating in a 50K ultramarathon in Santa Barbara. Shortly afterward, she noticed that both of her ankles were
swollen. She didn’t think too much of it at the time. Still, something urged her not to ignore her symptoms. She saw an urgent care physician and that was the beginning of a journey that would eventually render a diagnosis of Amyloidosis and multiple myeloma. “At the time, I was worried about being able to run,” Tank says. “Suddenly I
was worried about living.” Amyloidosis is a life-threatening disease that occurs when proteins build up in the body’s organs. It can affect cardiac function, the kidneys, the liver or spleen. Amyloidosis is a very rare disease, affecting just eight in 1 million people. She and her husband found that Stanford had an expert Amyloidosis team, so that’s where she went.
A SUNNY ATTITUDE Tank is a runner. And not
Mt. Diablo closes park area where peregrine falcons nest JOHN T. MILLER Correspondent
pixshark.com
EVEN AFTER GIVING BIRTH TO THEIR YOUNG, called eyasses, the peregrine falcon is easily frightened. The parents can be scared off from the nest and may never return.
For the first time ever, a corner of Mt. Diablo State Park will be closed to the public for six months so that peregrine falcons can nest in peace in the region. Pine Canyon, which includes the area known as “Castle Rock,” closed on Feb. 1 and will remain off-limits until July 31 so that the territorial and highly sensitive raptors, a “highly protected species,” will not be disturbed during their important nesting season. The main access to Castle Rock is through Foothill Regional Park, which prompted East Bay Regional Parks to work with the State Parks system to bring about the closure. The peregrine falcons are not
See Falcons, page 4
just an ordinary runner. Tank loves running so much that she is an ultramarathoner. These are more than the ordinary 26.1 mile race, they are anything more than 26 miles, up to double that amount. She is also owner of Apronstrings Pet Sitting services, and proud owner of eight chickens. “My girls,” she calls them. “They’ve been such good sports.” Two of “the girls” are named after her oncologists. Tank’s sunny attitude is infectious, and it’s partially what her doctors say has helped improve her ability to deal with all that her diagnosis has challenged her with. “You can get through just about anything with the love and laughter of family and friends,” she says. “%$*# happens,” she says in a post on her Facebook page. When it does, “just make sure it's chicken %$*#.”
See Kim Tank, page 5
Facchino Photography
UP AND RUNNING JUST WEEKS after a bone marrow transplant for a rare form of blood cancer, Concord’s Kim Tank crosses the finish line in good form in the Forma Gym Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving Day.
Council approves controversial $250K grant to Justice Center PEGGY SPEAR Concord Pioneer
A recent grant from the Concord Pleasant Hill Health Care Commission that will help the new Contra Costa Family Justice Center operate in the green is making many members of the commission that bestows those grants see red — and one commissioner even
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resigned over the conflict. Earlier this month, the Concord City Council, acting as the Concord Pleasant Hill Health Care District, agreed to allocate $250,000 to the newly opened FJC, which serves domestic violence victims from throughout central Contra Costa County. While that was a generous
See FJC Grant, page 5
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What’s Inside Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Community . . . . . . . . . . .2 From the desk of . . . . . . .7 Letters to the Editor . . . . .6 School News . . . . . . . . .10 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 Performing Arts . . . . . . .20
Page 2
Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
COMMUNITY
In Brief... Hours restored for two Concord departments Two City of Concord facilities have announced the resumption of regular offices hours that were reduced during the recession. Full-day Thursday hours at the Concord Senior Center, 2727 Parkside Circle, return this month. The Concord Senior Citizens Club volunteered to fund part-time hours (9 a.m. to 1 p.m.). As of Feb. 5, the Concord City Council recently restored funding for the full day — 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Similarly, the Permit Center, located at Civic Center, 1950 Parkside Dr., has been closed on Friday afternoons, except by appointment. Beginning Friday, Feb. 6, the Building Division is available to provide plan check review and building permit services Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Senior Center can be reached at 925-671-3320; the Permit Center’s number is (925) 671-3454.
‘Peg’ Gardner named VIPS Volunteer of the Year
Steve Glazier
Police Chief Guy Swanger, Mayor Tim Grayson, Volunteer of the Year ‘Peg’ Gardner, Councilmember Laura Hoffmeister and VIPS Manager Margaret Romiti
Artists, musicians, authors, poets, storytellers, and environmental groups are needed to participate in the 12th Annual Creekside Arts Celebration at the Clayton Library March 2729. The theme theme is “The Future Belongs to Those Who Believe in the Beauty of Their Dreams.” Art entries are juried by a noted panel from local art businesses, gallery museums, writer's clubs, and the Arts and Culture Commission of Contra Costa County. Entry forms are available at the Clayton Library or online at www.claytonlibrary.org. Deadline is March 13. For more information, contact Arlene KikkawaNielsen, event director, at (925) 673-9777 or akiksen@aol.com.
Continued next page
Police Chief Guy Swanger, Mayor Tim Grayson, Vice Mayor Laura Hoffmeister and Volunteer Services Manager Margaret Romiti were present to congratulate Margaret “Peg” Gardner on receiving her Volunteer of the Year 2014 award recently for participation in the Concord Police Department Volunteers in Police Service program. Gardner has been a VIPS for four years, logging over 1,000 hours of time donated in 2014. “This award is given to
someone who not only volunteers time, but who provides meritorious contributions to the department and shows a daily commitment to partnerships in the community,” said Romiti. Gardner is a Community Emergency Response Team
leader and instructor. She introduced an emergency preparedness program to fourth and fifth graders in local elementary schools in Clayton and Concord. To date, Gardner has trained more than 500 students.
Birthday begins second century
MDH seniors show kids what’s good for them The seniors in Mt. Diablo High School’s Sustainable Business class recently hosted
Creekside Arts 2015 seeking artists
February 27, 2015
Walnut Heights Elementary students for an interactive “Educational Theatre” to teach them about healthy eating and nutrition education. The seniors used a slide show to teach everything from “Safety & Sanitation” to being “Sugar Smart.” They spent
some time in the kitchen preparing fresh veggies for their lunchtime salad before making a short visit to the program’s vegetable garden. The class is part of the International Hospitality & Tourism Academy.
Pauline Kiefer, a long time resident of Concord, turned 101 on Feb. 16. Pauline was born in Louisville, Kentucky and worked as a nurse. She moved to California in 1946 with her family because her sisterin-law wanted to see Hollywood. She has resided at The Courtyards at Pine Creek, an assisted living community since 2008.
Tamara Steiner/Concord Pioneer
MDH SENIOR SIMONE BOYD gives a spirited lecture on food groups before ushering the students into the kitchen to get some hands on prep time with the salad makings.
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Beautiful & desirable "Coronado" model with first floor master suite! 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, approx.. 3307sf & 3 car garage! Gourmet kitchen features granite counters-all new stainless steel appliances & engineered hardwood floors. Private lot backs to open space. $959,000
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Concord Market Update provided by Better Homes Realty
ADDRESS
PRICE
SF
BED/BATH SALE DATE
ADDRESS
PRICE
SF
BED/BATH SALE DATE
1406 Idaho Ct . . . . . . . . . . . . . $380,000 . . . . .1018 . . . . . .3/1 . . . . . . . . .2/17/15
5522 Louisiana Dr . . . . . . . . . . $517,000 . . . . .1437 . . . . . .4/2 . . . . . . . . .2/13/15
1391 Canterbury Dr. . . . . . . . . $499,000 . . . . .1220 . . . . . .4/2 . . . . . . . . .2/17/15
1797 Billings Rd . . . . . . . . . . . $485,000 . . . . .2213 . . . . . .5/3 . . . . . . . . .2/13/15
1901 Esperanza . . . . . . . . . . . $330,000 . . . . .1022 . . . . . .3/1 . . . . . . . . .2/17/15
1633 Liana Lane . . . . . . . . . . . $485,000 . . . . .1644 . . . . . .3/2 . . . . . . . . .2/12/15
1043 Stimel Drive . . . . . . . . . . $630,000 . . . . .2213 . . . . . .5/3 . . . . . . . . .2/17/15
1961 Heaton Cir . . . . . . . . . . . $340,000 . . . . .1116 . . . . . .3/2 . . . . . . . . .2/12/15
2750 Laguna Street. . . . . . . . . $300,000 . . . . .9804 . . . . . .2/1 . . . . . . . . .2/13/15
1643 Agadir St. . . . . . . . . . . . . $575,000 . . . . .1907 . . . . . .4/3 . . . . . . . . .2/12/15
3527 Vancouver Way . . . . . . . $342,000 . . . . .1100 . . . . . .3/2 . . . . . . . . .2/13/15
1579 Ayers Rd. . . . . . . . . . . . . $440,000 . . . . .1380 . . . . . .3/2 . . . . . . . . .2/11/15
February 27, 2015
Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
Page 3
Community artists’ group creates vibrant local art scene LISA FULMER Special to the Pioneer
Kiwanis tap Jaime as top officer THE CONCORD KIWANIS CLUB RECENTLY HONORED MIKE JAIME as Officer of the Year. From left: Council members Edi Birsan, Dan Helix and Ron Leone; Officer Jaime, Police Chief Guy Swanger, Mayor Tim Grayson, Kiwanis members Rocci Barsotti and Tim McGallian. ROCCI BARSOTTI Special to the Pioneer
The Kiwanis Club of Concord recently honored Officer Mike Jaime as the Concord Police Officer of the Year for 2014. Officer Jaime started his career on Sept. 11, 2006. He has more than eight years of service to the community and the police force. Officer Jaime in the last year, and well as his career, has exemplified his commitment to the city of Concord and the community. His accomplishments are numerous but include the following: Contributing to the youth in our community as a Community Impact Team Officer. Maintaining relationships and working with local high schools, including principals, staff and students. Acting as program coordinator for the Concord Police Department for the “Every 15 Minutes” program. His work has become the model that outside agencies countywide have adopted. Overseeing the new School Resource Officer pro-
gram and mentoring its officers. Working on the homeless referral program with the county and nonprofit homeless shelter organizations. His work with Officers Galer and Corporal Smith have made significant strides to helping the local homeless population get off the streets and make a new start. During the past eight years, the CPD and the Kiwanis Club of Concord have been working together to enhance the quality of life for members of the community. Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world one child and one community at a time. Kiwanis International just celebrated its 100th birthday on Jan. 22. With its overall mission in mind, the Concord Kiwanis Club indicated that they would like to continue to honor a local police officer annually by formally recognizing their outstanding efforts and service in the community that is unique and beyond that which is normally expected.
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With its flourishing downtown, booming festival culture and the promise of new development at the Naval Weapons Station, Concord is thriving. It would make sense that its local arts scene is blooming as well. That is evidenced by the Concord Community of Artists, a multi-discipline collective of people who have come together to increase exposure for the arts in and around Concord. CCofA was started with a MeetUp group by photographer Sylvia Nuzzo Philis in December, 2013. Nuzzo Philis had lived in Concord for a few years and felt something was missing: thriving local arts. “I thought surely there were many artists living in Concord, so I set out to find them,” she says. “I created the group as a way for visual artists, performing artists, creative writers and artisans, as well as supporters of the arts, to come together to socialize, network and contribute to our local arts and cultural landscape.” Filled with civic pride and creative spark, Nuzzo Philis also had a dream of supporting working artists and bringing them together to show city officials, local businesses and the community at large that the arts are indeed alive in Concord. CCofA is hosting its first visual art show and sale in March, Concord Arts Alive! Emerge. More than 20 artists who all live in Concord, plus 15 art students from Clayton Valley Charter High School, will display their work from March 3 through 27 at aRt Cottage. An artist reception is
scheduled from 2 to 5 p.m. on Saturday, March 7, and various artists will be on-hand at the gallery each Friday and Saturday in March to talk to the public about their work. The range of media among the artists is impressive, with painters, illustrators, photographers, printmakers, sculptors, mixed-media artists, writers and interdisciplinary artists, revealing that Concord is filled with creative people, Nuzzo Philis says. Some are working artists and teaching
motivation for this project is focused on generating interest and an understanding for the value that comes from supporting a diverse community filled with arts and culture. I think Concord is ripe and ready for the benefits that come from engagement with the arts.” She says that a strong arts scene strengthens a community through education, economic development and civic pride. “It enhances the overall vitality of the community,” says Nuzzo Philis.
Photo courtesy of the Concord Library
THE CONCORD COMMUNITY OF ARTISTs, which displays members work at the Concord Library, will hold its first show, Concord Arts Alive! Emerge during the month of March at aRt Cottage.
artists, some are younger and just out of art school, beginning their career. Some are very seasoned with a long history of art-making in the community, and others have been making art for years, but don’t pursue it professionally because they have another career. “My main contribution has been as director of this grassroots arts initiative,” Nuzzo Philis says. “Yes, you will see my photography in the show, but my
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She says that including students in this show is an important part of the community-building aspect of the collective’s mission. “We want to create a bridge between generations of artists and we want students to know that art opportunities do exist in Concord.” Visit ConcordArtsAlive. blogspot.com for more information. aRt Cottage is located at 2238 Mt. Diablo St. in Concord.
Clayton
In Brief... Vote-by-Mail expands program with drop-off boxes Contra Costa residents residing in the 7th Senatorial District will find it easier to vote at this upcoming March 17 Special Primary Election, using convenient “CoCo Vote-N-Go” drop off locations prior to and on election day. The red secure, steel drop-off boxes will be in place at Concord City Hall, 1950 Parkside Drive, during normal business hours beginning Feb. 23. County elections officials will regularly pick up collected ballots. Ballots may also be dropped off between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. at the County Elections Office in Martinez, located at 555 Escobar Street, or at any polling place on election day. Vote-by-mail ballots were mailed the week of Feb. 16. to registered voters who requested them and to precincts designated as mail ballot only. If you expect a vote-by-mail ballot but haven’t received it by Feb. 26, call (925) 335-7800. Ballots must be postmarked by Election Day to qualify for counting. For more information about voting by mail, call (925) 3357800 or visit the County Elections website at www.cocovote.us.
Free Tax Assistance at Concord Library AARP will be providing free tax assistance to low- and middle-income persons, with special emphasis given to seniors, age 60+. The service is offered on Fridays and Saturdays beginning Feb. 6- through April 11 from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Concord Library. Walk-ins ok, but priority is given to those with appointments. Call (925) 405-5135 for an appointment
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Page 4
Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
Concord’s Stonehenge? Located in the small mysterious triangle of land where Port Chicago Highway begins and bordered by Sunset and Clayton Road lies a scattering of 23 hewed boulders, some upright like a strong sentinel and others laying on their side, flat with the raised gentle contours of the ground cover cleverly hiding what lies beneath. Some show grooves only partially visible with varying distances from three to five inches apart — maybe a code pattern from some other-worldly measure. What manner of message lies here? Who placed them here and in the exact formation, if one perceives it thus? Was this
the mindless toss of a public works truck or something far beyond that randomness and a monumental conundrum in stone? We the public have a right to KNOW, but we have a far more honored and practiced right to make up what we BELEIVE and to have fun with it all. Who
knows what future archeologists may describe if they find YOUR story in an ancient manuscript of truth, justice and the American media known as the Concord Pioneer. Send your story explanation of 250 words or less to EdiBirsan@gmail.com and our cabal of editors will pick one — or more — to torment the imagination and the gullibility of the readers.
February 27, 2015
Falcons, from page 1 just important to our modern-day ecology. In antiquity, the falcon represented the rising sun in Egypt. Egyptian gods, including RA, were often depicted with the head or body of the falcon. The bird is known to symbolize visionary power, wisdom and guardianship. The peregrine falcons have been nesting in the Castle Rock area since the late 1800s, but by the 1950s they were nowhere to be found and were listed as an endangered species. According to investigations by scientists, the pesticide known as DDT nearly wiped out the falcon population by affecting the calcium in their eggs. In 1990, however, Save Mount Diablo, the park district and the University of California were able to reintroduce the species by slipping some captive peregrine falcon eggs into a prairie falcon nest
on Mt. Diablo. Their numbers have rebounded and they are now listed as a “highly protected species.” Michael Marchiano, a volunteer with the Mt. Diablo Interpretive Association and an enthusiastic naturalist and bird watching tour guide, is ecstatic over the closure. “It’s not just the falcons that will benefit,” says Marchiano. “Many other birds use the area to nest, including golden eagles, red tail hawks and red shoulder hawks in the high trees, cooper’s hawks, kestrels, barn owls, prairie falcons, swifts, cliff swallows, barn swallows and many other songbirds nest in cavity spaces in the rocks.” In the last five years, vandalism, spray paint, beer cans, broken glass and garbage has increased exponentially in the Castle Rock area, Marchiano says. “Rock climbers often crawl into
the cavities where the nests are, scaring off the parents who may never return. Places like Sentinel Rock and Rock City provide much better rock climbing opportunities on the mountain.” According to a National Geographic article, falcons can migrate up to 15,000 miles in a year — the name peregrine means wanderer — and some nesting sites have been used for hundreds of years by successive generations of falcons. They are known as the fastest bird, reaching up to 200 miles an hour while diving for prey. Often, part of the elaborate mating ritual is for the male to show the nesting site to the female, who may base her decision on its desirability. Falcons mate for life and can live up to 17 years in the wild. Signs and educational materials will be placed in the area to advise and inform users about the closure, said district officials. Violators will be subject to fines.
Sunday, April 5 • Two Seatings at 10:30 a.m. & 1 p.m. If you’re looking for place to go for a delicious Easter Sunday Brunch, come celebrate the holiday with your friends and family at Oakhurst Country Club. Ring in springtime with a delectable selection of food, drink, and beautiful surroundings.
There will also be a Petting Zoo, an Easter Egg hunt, and pictures with the Easter Bunny for the kids. $48.99++ Adults • $27.99++ Children (ages 4-12) For reservations, please contact (925) 672-9737 ext. 217 | eventdirector@oakhurstcc.com Map courtesy Mt. Diablo State Park
1001 Peacock Creek Drive, Clayton, CA | www.oakhurstcc.com
THE CASTLE ROCK AREA IN MOUNT DIABLO STATE PARK will be closed to visitors from Feb. 1 to July 31 to help protect the peregrine falcons during their nesting season.
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February 27, 2015
Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
Kim Tank, from page 1 She received her official diagnosis on July 16, 2013. Later in July, she had her second biopsy, this time a bone marrow biopsy, which confirmed multiple myeloma. In August she started a round of chemotherapy lasting 10 months and requiring her to take 25 medications each morning, and seeing her oncologist twice a week for injections. She didn’t lose her hair in the process of, what she calls “chemo-lite.” Throughout all the treatment, Tank continued to run. “I did everything I
could to stay in shape.” In May 2014, her doctors suggested that she consider a stem cell transplant. “Because of my running, I was in good (enough) health.”
A NEW CHALLENGE When the transplant process began, Tank gave herself a party, creating a “Stanford Ultra Challenge” spectator guide. “I was told it would be a challenge, so I decided to treat it like a competition,” she says. The guide included descriptions of her condition, a list of
FJC Grant, from page 1 amount — and more than any other non-profit group received in district grants — it was $220,000 more than the $30,000 the commission suggested. This past year, the CPHHCC gave out nearly $300,000 to different local non-profits that will have a positive impact in the well-being and health of the community, but none were more than the $30,000 suggested for the FJC. Recently, the commission was told it was receiving nearly $290,000 in additional one-time funds. Police Chief Guy Swanger had originally asked the commission for $250,000 for the FJC, which would come from those funds. The commission’s $30,000 recommendation was unanimous, however, based on past allocations and its directives from the city, members said. The council’s override of the commission’s $30,000 suggestion angered many commission members, and Community Services Committee member David Molstad resigned over the matter. The CPHHCC is a subcommittee of Molstad's committee. “I fail to see the value of donating my time when my efforts and recommendations of the commissions are ignored in favor of other agendas,” he said. “What value is there to
donating time to see the efforts ignored?” Molstad said that the commission had hoped that the extra money — which was a one-time allocation to the district — could be split among “other deserving non-profits who are assisting in health care in our community,” and not just the FJC. He also said that in no way did that that diminish the importance of the FJC, but felt the council’s actions overrode the work the commission did in coming to an agreement on funding. “There are a lot of deserving non-profits out there who could use the funding,” he said. “We had hoped we could bump them up a little bit.” The Family Justice Center has been a priority for Mayor Tim Grayson, and has been heartily endorsed by all the other council members. It opened earlier this month in offices at Todos Santos Plaza, and will provide “one-stop” shopping for victims of domestic violence, including help navigating safety issues, housing and childcare. It brings police, prosecutors and various social service agencies together under one roof. In addition, it can make “warm” referrals to other organizations that may not be located at the center, bringing victims directly to those other agencies, if needed. The center
her caregivers, and her contact information, including her blog (toliveasparklylife.com) and Facebook pages. Tank’s inspirational online presence has documented her journey. Leading up to her stem cell transplant, she first had to figure out the logistics of moving to Stanford for the duration of her treatment. Then came tests, and more tests. Tank had to take daily injections to boost her own body’s production of stem cells in her blood stream. Following a dramatic increase of stem cells, she went through a process to “harvest” the cells by Apheresis, which is like
is funded by grants and various donations, including from the Concord Police Department, Concord’s Community Court, general fund donations from the city and a large grant from the Hofmann Foundation. Grayson said that he is “very appreciative” of all the time and energy that volunteers give to the city by serving on commissions and committees. But, “The council had the opportunity to partner with the Concord/Pleasant Hill Health Care Commission in supporting the Central County Family Justice Center with additional funding. The committee agreed to allocate $30,000 to the FJC. The council was able to determine that it was possible to fund the remaining $220,000 without negatively impacting other funded nonprofits,” he explained. “My justification is that it is better to save lives rather than pad an account with money that is supposed to be used for the health and well-being of the community.” Councilman Edi Birsan was the lone dissenter on the council vote. While he said he “overwhelmingly” supports the FJC, “The district gives out funds to life saving nonprofits like RotaCare and Homeless Outreach. The council should have asked the commissioners to reconsider their $280,000 reserve fund for allocation to the Family Justice Center (along with) other lifesaving non-profits.”
Page 5
donating blood, except when the blood is extracted, the stem cells are filtered out, and the blood is returned to the donor. Next, Tank had to undergo an intensive, high-dose chemotherapy process. This time, she did lose her hair. “I was very tired. It was an assault to my system,” she said. She was very frail, very fragile, and perfectly prepped for her transplant. On Aug.19, 2014, Tank received her stem cell transplant in a process very similar to a transfusion. Her own stem cells were reintroduced into her blood stream and she had to wait two weeks to see if the new cells would engraft and make new ones. The goal was a total reboot of the bone marrow system. “It’s my new birthday,” she says. “I also call it Day Zero.” She knows every day number dating back to August 19. “On Day 27, I got to go home. On Day 28, I walked two miles. It was hard.” On Day 35, Tank started running again.
KIM TANK SNUGGLES WITH A “THE GIRLS.” She calls them her Facebook stars and named two – Michaela and Sally – after her Stanford oncologists. FEW OF
insists that she was never athletic. ”No one was more shocked than me when I qualified for the Boston Marathon in 2009.” Since then, she has run the Boston race twice more. She celebrated her 50th birthday by running 50 miles. “It just seemed like the thing to do,” she said. Altogether, Tank
PERSONAL BEST A runner since 2007, Tank
has run seven marathons and three ultramarathons. She celebrated her 55th birthday by cycling 55 miles. Next weekend, she will run the Napa Valley Marathon. If her time qualifies, it’s back to Boston once again. On March 1, Tank will add another personal best: she’s headed to Washington, DC to meet with members of Congress and lobby for rare disease research. “I want to do what I can to help other people who find themselves in a situation like mine.” Tank lives in Concord with her husband, Howard. The two have been married 32 years and have three sons and a daughter. On Valentines Day, they did what the Tanks do. They got on their bikes and headed out for a ride, this time to San Ramon where they stopped for something sweet. Today, Tank is in remission and happier than she’s ever been. “Relationships with the people you love are the most important thing in the world,” she says. “And, a positive attitude will get you far.”
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will take decades to complete. I believe we should review how we got to this point with a little assistance from Council member Dan Helix. Eleven years ago, in 2004, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger established a Council on Base Support and Retention to advise the state and local communities on Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) strategy as the federal government sought a nationwide reduction of its military infrastructure. The 18member council, comprised of retired military officers and civic leaders, was co-chaired by former White House chief of staff Leon Panetta and business woman and former Deputy Secretary of the U.S. Department of Commerce Donna Tuttle. It was the governor’s intent to communicate the inherent strengths California’s military installations offer our national defense goals. The council was to inventory California’s existing military installations and show how they complement each other, and recommend strategies to promote base retention. The council was to prepare a report to the then-Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld, urging him not to close any of California’s bases.
CNWS THE EXCEPTION
operations at the Concord Naval Weapons Station and declared the property excess to its needs. Fortunately we had one Concord resident on the governor’s council. Retired Army Major General Dan Helix served on the panel and insisted they should not gainsay the Navy’s decision, suggesting that by “throwing the BRAC panel a bone” we would strengthen the council’s request to retain the remainder of California’s military installations. That is exactly what happened and the only military base that BRAC closed in California in 2005 was the Concord site we are now developing. Concord formed a Citizens Advisory Panel to investigate possible uses for the base and after two-plus years the committee developed 14 plans, which were reduced to five plans and subsequently two plans that were sent to the Concord City Council to select one for ultimate development of the site. In early 2014, once the plan had been adopted and the voluminous Environmental Impact Report (EIR) had been approved, we began a one-year selection process to choose a Master Developer for Phase I of what’s called the Concord Reuse Project Area Plan, shortened to “Area Plan.”
The over-all strategy proved enormously successful with one notable exception. The U.S. Navy had previously ceased
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erty. The city council, sitting as the Local Reuse Authority, received eight qualification packages and each proposal was analyzed by an eight-person review panel. A short list of four firms was recommended by the staff panel, which we approved in June of this year. The city council approved the top four firms and invited them to submit a formal proposal to develop the site. These firms were, alphabetically, Catellus Development Corporation, FivePoint Communities/ Lennar, J.F. Shea Company, and SunCal Corporation. J.F. Shea Company withdrew from the process and we received three proposals. Step one in the selection process took place on Feb.10 and 11, where each firm gave a public presentation of their proposal and received comments and questions from the city council and the public. This was the first of three sessions with the three firms. At the end of this step two finalists will be selected by the council and negotiations will then be undertaken to make the final selection. We hope to make the selection by June of this year. I believe the City of Concord owes a gigantic vote of thanks to our Project Director, Michael Wright, who has been with this project from the early days of the Citizen’s Advisory Committee, through endless negotiations with the U.S. Navy, to the point where we can say we are now at the dawn of our development, a major historical event in the history of Concord.
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Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
A special look at State Senate Race
EDI BIRSAN PULSE OF CONCORD The Special Election for State Senator on March 17 is truly special, if only in the dynamics of the voters and the campaigns of the candidates. Here are some thoughts. THE HARD FACTS ON VOTING The last election had a 48 percent turnout. If we get a 30 percent turnout in March it will be a miracle of community involvement. The lower the turnout the higher the impact of the Republicans who have an almost 10 percent turnout advantage vs.
Democrats in Concord, but are buried by the basic 48 percent vs. 29 percent registration edge of Democrats in the city. There are four running who are registered Democrats: Susan Bonilla, Joan Buchanan, Steve Glazer and Terry Kremin, and one Republican. By mail voters will totally dominate the election as they did in the November election, only more so. You can expect that at least 69 percent, if not more of those who actually vote, will vote by mail, which could mean that by the time you read this there is already a massive turnout of those who will bother. This also explains why your mail box was stuffed the period of Feb. 13-20, when those ballots are received and the candidates unloaded with all their mail. The lower the turnout the less there are of casual or low information voters who may be turning out to vote on big races or big issues and then have to decide on the smaller races. This leads to more of an impact of direct name
knowledge with a reduced impact of endorsements and affiliations. There will be more people voting for this or that person rather than along party lines. The people who are coming out to vote are coming out specifically for one thing and one thing only: who should be the next State Senator. This makes this race very special. PUTTING A BITE IN POLITICS The week that the ballot statements arrived and the subsequent week when the mail arrived our mail box exploded with jumbo post card mailers with no less than eight from the Bonilla Camp. One was hitting every day five days in a row, but did any of you notice that they were sent by the California Dental Association? Now we know that Susan has a great smile and they do feature it, but those mailers in a Senatorial have got to run almost $175,000, and coming from the Sacramento lobby mainstay: K Street. We probably will not find out till the end of the election, thank you Independent Expenditures rules.
So what is the story there? JOAN VS. BONILLA: SIGN WARS We wouldn’t know we were in Concord and it was election time if there wasn’t a sign war going on. Our streets are adorned with light blue and white for “Bonilla” and red and white signs for “Joan.” There you have an interesting different approach: using her last name as a highlight, Susan Bonilla follows in the line of thought that you will see Bonilla and remember to vote for her. The Buchanan camp is possibly going with the concept that last names with three syllables are too long and that Joan is more friendly. Personally I like dark blue with yellow and use my last name — after all, Ed or Edi is bound to get some investigative organization wondering what you are trying to hide in your name. Send comments to EdiBirsan@astound.net, or visit www.PulseOfConcord.com.
Business development, Weapons Station highlight Mayor’s 2015 plans PEGGY SPEAR Concord Pioneer
Concord Mayor Tim Grayson has a sense of humor. That was obvious as the pastor and Concord Police Chaplain used a whimsical story of Noah building the Ark with today’s bureaucracy in place to kick off his 2015 State of the City address last month at the Concord Hilton. He cited labor issues, EIRs, code violations and disputes with animal rights advocates to illustrate the complexities of completing a project in a city
today. “It’s the responsibility of local government to meet the expectations of the public,” he said. “Here is a ‘flood’ of statistics,” he citing that Concord has 383 miles of sewers, 14,00 street signs, 1,485 streets, 13.5 drainage miles and ditches, 26 parks, 31 million square feet of grass and 261 vehicles to maintain — among other things. It’s hard to get things done. But the mayor was clearly pleased with what he did accomplish in his first year in office, which included negotiating a new contract with Live Nation
$1 million for a healthier Monument Kaiser Permanente awarded the Monument HEAL Zone Collaborative — a team of nine community partner organizations, led by Monument Impact and dedicated to working together to make the Monument neighborhood a healthy place for all residents – a $1 million grant to continue their healthy eating and active living work in the Monument Community of Concord. The grant is part of Kaiser Permanente’s new two-year, $4 million Healthy Eating Active Living (HEAL) investments across Northern California that focus on addressing chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension that are related to obesity. According to Jennifer Slovis, M.D., chief of health promotion at Kaiser Permanente’s Oakland Medical Center and clinical lead for Kaiser Permanente’s weightmanagement program in North-
ern California, these diseases are more prevalent in underserved communities, and providing people access to healthy foods and opportunities for exercise are not enough to turn the trends around. “What we’ve learned through our HEAL work is that, as important as they are, health education and access to healthy options is only part of the solution,” Slovis said. “We have to address the underlying conditions that impact the choices people make.” “This grant from Kaiser Permanente will allow us to really focus our efforts to help address the challenges in the Monument Area,” said Ana Villalobos, Healthy Community Manager with Monument Impact. “We’re excited that we will be able to continue on the path of addressing the issues that impact health behaviors in our community.”
to bring back more shows and increased vitality for the Concord Pavilion; passed an ordinance that one-time extra funds would be directed to unfunded liabilities; worked with the Concord Police Department to restore School Resource Officers at local high schools; launched the Visit Concord tourism district; and helped improve bike paths and pedestrian safety in the city. He also presided over the city’s plans to improve wellness programs at the Concord Senior Center, as well as saw $204,000 in grants donated by the Concord Pleasant Hill Health Care District. The mayor was quick to give credit where credit was due, offering lavish praise on his partners both on the council and in the community who helped Concord achieve these goals. Looking ahead, he stated he still has his work cut out for him, including acquiring 58 acres from the Coast Guard for senior and veterans housing, as well as moving forward on probably the biggest project to cross the dais in generations, the development of the Concord Naval Weapons Station. One of his goals there is the creation of a 10,000-foot sports complex, as well as other fields, that will attract tournaments and teams from throughout the state, “all shopping, eating and staying in Concord.” Perhaps the most important item on his 2015 agenda, however, is developing Concord as an educational and business hub. The educational aspect can be realized, he said, with the development of a joint CSU-UC campus on the CNWS land, which can attract students as well as research and develop-
ment entities. “We are the only county this big that doesn’t have a CSU or UC,” he said. “Students leave for other places, and they stay there.” That depletes the number of skilled workers in the county and in Concord, and businesses will take note, he said. “Businesses want to know three things: Is it a safe community? Is there an infrastructure to support it? And is there a skilled workforce available?” Grayson said. Concord can say yes to all those, he said, especially the last one by having schools partner with the private sector to help create the types of labor needed by business, especially the biotechnology field. He says he also wants to make policies that create an environment of income equality, so that “teachers can live where they teach,” he said emphatically. Grayson also touted the opening of the Contra Costa Family Justice Center, one of the first of its kind in the nation that is “one-stop shopping” for victims of domestic violence and their families. Grayson wrapped up his address by circling back to the importance of economic development, and how increasing business revenue will have nothing but positive impacts on the city. “I want to make sure we won’t need measures like Measure Q,” the half-cent sales tax that passed in November to help stave off another round of deep cuts for the city. The mayor’s annual address was sponsored by the Concord Chamber of Commerce. It can be viewed on the city’s website at www.cityofconcord.org.
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February 27, 2015
Letters to the Editor FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY Per the voter Information pamphlet for the special election in Senate District 7 (SD7), Joan Buchanan commits to being Fiscally responsible and Steve Glazer says he’s a Fiscal Conservative. All the candidates’ statements say they want balanced budgets. But influencing where the money goes is just as important as a balanced budget. Note that Susan Bonilla is running for a Senate seat when she’s just been re-elected to the Assembly. If Bonilla’s elected, it triggers a special election for her vacated Assembly seat. The price tag to
Contra Costa County is upwards of $1.5 million dollars (based on the Registrar of Voters estimated cost of the Primary and General election for the current SD7 special election). So, Bonilla is willing to cause a $1.5 million additional cost to the county for one step up the ladder of her political career. Is this Fiscally Conservative or Responsible? To create a balanced budget, that special election money has to come from somewhere. What County programs and services will be shortchanged to make that happen? Sue Hamill Walnut Creek
PRAYER AT COUNCIL MEETINGS The article about the prayer proposal before Concord council meetings needs work. The title: “Concord City Council says no prayer at council meetings”, is both misleading and inaccurate. The issue of prayer was never on the agenda of the Concord City Council, at least not in this century. To say the issue (prayer) was a “victim of logistics” is not accurate reporting. Well over half of the speakers against the idea were not Concord residents. The basis for my proposal
was NOT a decision of the U.S. Supreme Court. Why not ask me for my reasons? Also, I advocated prayer from all religions, no exceptions. The City Attorney, Mark Coon denied saying the proposal would “open up the City to lawsuits.” You reported that the practice of prayer was discontinued due to discord when it was implemented. That’s totally false! We had a prayer before every meeting from 1968 to 1976. Please check your facts before you print a story. Daniel C. Helix, Concord Councilmember
City’s future gets rolling with Bike Concord
ADAM FOSTER BIKE CONCORD Bike Concord was founded one year ago when a handful of volunteers organized a free weekly bike repair tent at the Todos Santos Farmer’s Market. The goal was to help build a culture of people having fun riding bikes. Since then Bike Concord has attracted more than a dozen volunteers, organized educational bike rides, provided detailed public testimony on city street improvement projects and worked with local leaders on forming a permanent city committee for pedestrians and bikers. Bike Concord’s growth continues to be rapid. It’s heading in a direction where people who ride their bikes will continue to feel safer in their community. But this is just the beginning. Here’s a prediction for what could be happening in Concord in the year 2020: Streets are being converted from unnecessarily wide racetracks to charming, inviting public spaces. Women, children and the elderly have climbed back on bikes and are now regularly pedaling through the city. Concord is safer than ever and local businesses are thriving. What’s more, employers are choosing Concord because of all the talented workers it has attracted and retained. Concord has stepped up to the next level and become the “hippest” city in the county, and it’s largely attributed to its decision to make its streets safer for people walking, biking and driv-
ing. What began with a handful of vocal residents and some support from local leaders has turned into a momentous movement. Concord City Council races have not only focused on people biking, people walking and safe streets, but candidates have started to try to “out champion” each other on these matters. Families see Concord as a safe, desirable alternative to nearby cities that lack connectivity to transit. Concord’s delightful and booming downtown has become a daily regional draw for its organic, local shops and restaurants, as well as its quiet, walkable streets. The city’s robust network of streets designed for the co-existence of people walking, biking and driving has become a model for communities near and far. Concord’s commitment to minimizing transportation-related collisions and end fatalities on its streets through exemplary design efforts is attracting media attention and political interest, not to mention its appeal to the Millennial generation and retiring Baby Boomers. A strong vision was embraced back in 2015 for an idea whose time has come. The results are breathtakingly positive. That vision of Concord doesn’t need to be a fantasy. People are working now to make it a reality. Join Bike Concord at the Downtown Concord BART station at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, March 28. Riders will head to the Whole Foods in Walnut Creek — and if they’re up to it, to downtown Danville — and back. The ride will celebrate Opening Day for Trails, part of the American rail-trail movement for trail development efforts. For more information or to comment on the above predictions, email Adam Foster at adamwfoster@gmail.com.
February 27, 2015
Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
From the desk of ...
Page 7
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PLANNING COMMISSION A father you know – maybe your neighbor, your co-worker, your friend, residing somewhere in the Bay Area – is facing a crisis. His wife was injured in a car accident and is in critical condition. He needs to focus all of his energy on her, and remain at the hospital for the next 24 hours, but he also has a 2-year-old and a 4year-old to care for. To whom can he turn for help, with the closest relative 300 miles away? Bring the Bay Area Crisis Nursery (BACN) into the picture, a support for “parents who care but temporarily can’t cope.” Founded 34 years ago by Executive Director Sister Ann Weltz, BACN is a shortterm residential care facility for children, newborns up to age 11, from families who are having trouble dealing with overwhelming, stressful life emergencies. The only crisis nursery in the Bay Area, BACN operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and aims to
A VOLUNTEER READS TO A YOUNG GUEST at the Bay Area Crisis Nursery. The Nursery provides temporary residential care for children in families that need some extra help.
prevent child abuse by bridging the need for emergency childcare while providing a support network of resources. Parents and legal guardians may call BACN Crisis Hotline at any time to receive assistance: 925-685-8052 for newborn children and those up to five years of age, and 925-6853695 for children aged six to eleven. What kinds of services does this “home away from home” offer to families in crisis? Children may stay at the Bay Area Crisis Nursery for up
to 30 days, during which time they receive three meals a day, and have a safe place to live and play while their parents work out the situation causing the crisis. “We try to care for the whole child and meet their physical and emotional needs,” explains Development Director Nancy Thomas. At the end of their stay, children go home with a tooth brush, book, toy and set of clothing. However, parents are not left completely on their own after a crisis is resolved. A referral service operated by BACN staff mem-
bers helps families locate other needed services to help rebuild their lives. All clients also have access to the Respite Care Program which consists of planned pre-arranged two to four day stays, on a monthly basis. A non-profit organization funded solely by private donations, the Bay Area Crisis Nursery provides all services to clients, at no charge. As a result, they are always seeking financial partners and community volunteers to support this endeavor. Monetary donations are accepted year round and may be mailed to 1506 Mendocino Drive, Concord, CA 94520, made online at www.bayareacrisisnursery.org, or by credit card on a monthly basis via the HUGS program. BACN also relies heavily on volunteers to help with daily child care, plan and execute fundraising events, make general repairs to the facility, prepare newsletter mailings, and serve on the non-profit organization’s board and its committees. Interested parties may email volunteer@bacn.info or call 925-685-6633 to volunteer.
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Hiring officers is an extensive process
GUY SWANGER
POLICE CHIEF As I am writing this article today, I must confess that I have something else on my mind. I am spending the next two days interviewing police candidates. I know there are some that dread the process of interviewing but we take it very seriously. All of us in this police profession started this same way: an interview. But for the Concord Police Department, this is a critical step in selecting officers that will
serve our community with the same dedication as those who came before them since 1905. If a candidate is interested in becoming a Concord Police Officer, there is an application process and initial screening conducted by our very capable Human Resources staff. Some of our candidates are trying to land one of the coveted spots in the academy. The remaining candidates have completed an academy but are not currently employed as an officer. And our last pool of candidates is police officers serving another department, wanting to join our organization. The candidates are furthered screened by an administrative/training lieutenant. A list is developed and an interview date is set. The interview panel consists of the two police captains and me. The purpose of this interview is to find the ideal candidate that is looking to commit to
this lifestyle. One of maintaining high integrity, often involving very difficult and dangerous work, strong interpersonal and multi-tasking skills, and driven by public service. It does not matter that you have always wanted to be a police officer or discovered your interest in the past year. Everything from your past to the present, all experiences and knowledge, is what will carry you in this interview. We are a police department made of different personalities, genders, races, experience and skill sets. But all of us here demonstrated in this type of interview that we shared that drive for public service. For those that pass and are given a background package, CPD is selecting them to continue in the hiring process. This includes a lengthy background process, polygraph, psychologist review, medical check-up, and so on. These are just the initial steps
before putting on a Concord Police Department uniform. Once you are hired, assuming you are a lateral from another police department, it is four more months of phase training. If you are not a lateral, it is off to the police academy for a challenging 24-week test of athleticism and mental strength. I had the pleasure of attending a meeting at the local community college to meet with the Administrative of Justice instructors. I shared with them the two most important skill sets that should be reinforced in their curriculum. They are a must have for the Concord police force. They are writing and communication skills. These skills are used every day, most of the day. Now, off to my interviews. Guy Swanger is Concord’s Chief of Police. Send questions or comments to ContactCPD@cityofconcord.org.
Waraner Tree Experts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .250-0334 Mailing Services The UPS Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-6245 Pet Services Pittsburg Pet Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .432-7387 Photography Rochellez Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .510-677-4170 Real Estate and Mortgage Services French, Lynne – Windermere Real Estate . . . . . .672-8787 Hayes, Diane and Bill – Better Homes Realty . . .890-4701 Howard, Don – Better Homes Realty . . . . . . . . . .408-3184 Howard, Emily – Better Homes Realty . . . . . . . .408-1871 Klock, Leigh – Coldwell Banker . . . . . . . . . . . . . .212-5593 Laurence, Pete – RE/MAX Realty . . . . . . . . . . . .890-6004 Lopez, Stephanie – Coldwell Banker . . . . . . . . . .932-7329 Mazzei, Matt – Mazzei Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .693-0757 O’Brien, Michael – O’Brien Real Estate . . . . . . . .680-5478 Stojanovich, Jennifer – Better Homes Realty . . .567-6170 Vujnovich, George - Better Homes Realty . . . . . .672-4433 Recreation and Fitness Concord American Little League . . . . . . . .callbaseball.org Diablo Yoga . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .304-2127 Earthquake Arabians . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .360-7454 East Bay Regional Park District . . . . . . . . . .888-327-2757 Senior Services Courtyards at Pine Creek . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-3900 Services, Other ComputersUSA! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9989 Net Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6029
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Page 8
Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
February 27, 2015
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Jesse Avila of Concord is a Mexican-immigrant success story. He arrived in the Bay Area from Mexico at the age of three with his parents and several siblings. He spoke no English, and his father only wanted Spanish spoken in the home. He grew up in Martinez, going to school there through Alhambra High School, where he graduated in 1977. His father worked as a maintenance man for a railcar-maintenance company. His mother worked at various jobs, including at a local cannery. Learning English in school was a challenge for Avila, but he excelled in fixing things and putting things together. He would get used bikes and other mechanical things from the city dump, then repair and sell them. This was his passion at an early age. After high school, he worked with family members in construction and landscaping. But when he had the opportunity to see road construction and paving being done, he was hooked. He married, moved to Concord, and in 1986 started Avila Paving Company, with one truck “with a blown motor.” He fixed
the motor, added a seal-coat tank on the back, and opened for business. Today, Jesse heads APCO Paving, with its office on Monument Blvd. He perceived prejudice when he first started the company. “It was hard being Latino in the paving business much of the time,” he says. “The color of my skin was definitely stopping me from getting jobs.” He found that by using Anglos to do the estimating and sales, he turned things around. He also changed the name of his company from Avila Paving Company to APCO to avoid the prominence of his Latino surname. As for his workers, he does not concentrate on Latinos. “I hire all kinds of people,” he says. “I look for people who want to work hard. If you don’t want to work hard, then you don’t work for me.” Jesse is proud of his accomplishments. “I have an excellent reputation with the asphalt suppliers,” he says. “They are the ones to talk with if you want a reference.” He and his wife, Kimberly, have two children, a boy and a girl. Because of his own experience, beginning school without knowing English, he insisted that English be the main language in
WHILE THERE WAS DEFINITELY PREJUDICE against his Mexican heritage in the early days of starting his business, Jesse Avila found ways around the obstacles and today owns and operates a successful paving company. the home. He wanted his kids to understand Spanish and to be able to speak it a bit, but he wanted them to have English as their primary language. In 2004, he bought property on Farm Bureau Road. This gave him the opportunity to build a 5,000-square-foot family home. “I made a statement with the house,” he says. “A lot of guys want stuff, but they don’t go after it. But that is what you have to do to be a success.” He has not actively participated in civic affairs or business associations, but he does feel like
to seek help, then care using one of the methods detailed below. Moore taught the women current core skills to perform
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Do you know an entrepreneur that has a success story to share? Contact editor@concordpioneer.
Concord Chamber gets lessons in saving lives
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he would like to give back to the community. “I have a lot to offer the Latino community,” he says. “I can open some doors.” When he looks back on the past, he remembers teachers who told him that he would not amount to much. “I’d like to see some of them now, to show them that they were wrong about me,” he says. “They didn’t know what they were talking about.”
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To honor Valentine’s Day and Go Red for Women, the Concord Chamber’s Women in Business hosted guest speakers Alicia Moore with American Medical Response and Nikki Ashley with American Red Cross to learn how residents can help save lives. Ashley and Moore mentioned in the case you would need to use one of these methods, be sure to follow “CheckCall-Care.” First check the situation and the person to see if s/he needs assistance, call 9-1-1
Audience members attending the Chamber of Commerce Women in Business luncheon recently got a hands-on lesson in CPR from Nikki Ashley from the American Red Cross and Alicia Moore of AMT.
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E.J. Phair pours fun into the community The Todos Santos Business Association spotlights a local favorite this month — E.J. Phair Brewing Company. The Con-
cord alehouse is located at 2151 Salvio St. in the heart of Todos Santos Plaza and is celebrating its 10th anniversary in March. Ten years ago J.J. Phair says he wasn’t able to find a good beer in Concord, so he decided to do something about it. He wanted to create a real Public House where the community could come to socialize, catch up on news and watch their
favorite team while sipping some of the best beer around. Phair has been brewing beer in Concord since 2000 and also at his Pittsburg Brewery since 2012. He has eight to 10 of E.J. Phair brews on tap, from a pale blonde to a dark stout. The alehouse carries a total of 19 beers on tap, including a rotation of guest labels. The alehouse also serves
heartbeat for the person to keep them alive. Ashley then informed the women about the automated external defibrillator — or AED — a portable medical device that sends an electric shock to the heart to try to restore its normal rhythm. These devices should be easy to locate in any facility for anyone to access in the case of an emergency. The AEDs display easy-to-follow directions on how to attach the device to the chest, one pad below the heart and the other pad on the opposite side of the heart, and how to start the device. These devices have saved many, especially in gyms where your heart is working hard. For more information about American Medical Response or CPR, contact Moore at 888-267-6591, extension 7. For more information about American Red Cross or AEDs, contact Ashley at 510-5005194. For more information on becoming a member of the Concord Chamber of Commerce, please visit www.concordchamber.com or call (925) 685-1181.
food. Phair is continuing his effort to carry sustainable locally grown produce and meats. Patrons can enjoy salads, burgers, full meals and much, much more. Phair and his General Manager Chris Wheeler encourage patrons to ask them about “Pint Nights.” These are fundraiser nights when they donate a percentage of pint sales to a charitable organization. Phair also donates to Concord’s schools. To celebrate E.J. Phair’s (named after J.J.’s grandfather, Ewart J. Phair) 10th anniversary, Phair plans to release a new beer everyday kicking off March 7 and ending on March 17 with a St. Patrick’s Day celebration. (Last year, E.J. Phair served 400 pounds of Corned Beef.) Head over to E.J Phair’s Alehouse to find out what’s new on tap and look for those specials on the menu.
February 27, 2015
Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
Page 9
How true is Zillow/Trulia? list price of my home or values for a home I am considering to buy. What is your take on Zillow?
LYNNE FRENCH
REAL ANSWERS Q. know home won’t these
I and most people I go to Zillow.com for values. My realtor even consider using values for pricing the
A. I am with your realtor. Zillow/Trulia (they have merged) are websites that people consult in determining the value of a home. They have killed more deals than anything I have ever seen. I think the biggest problem is that this is totally automated by computer. A computer can’t
see inside a house. It can’t value your upgrades, your location within a subdivision or even a subdivision within an area. It doesn’t know if you back to a busy street or have a panoramic view. Even the Chief Executive of Zillow admitted an 8 percent error gap. Most estimates are higher than that. On the bottom of Zillow’s home page in small print is the link “Zestimates,” This section provides error rates. In some rural parts of
California, they have a 26 percent error rate. San Francisco’s is 11.6 percent. Imagine what that is with their high prices. There is no replacing the value and experience realtors bring to the table. Send your question and look for your answer in a future column. Email Lynne@LynneFrench.com. French is the broker/owner of Windermere Lynne French & Associates. Contact her at 672-878 7or stop in at 6200 Center St., Clayton.
Nation which operates the facility on Kirker Pass Rd. The new committee will provide guidance to the Pavilion general manager on outreach efforts to attract applications from local schools, cultural organizations and the community to bring additional community events to the Pavilion, expanding use of the venue beyond the concert season. The committee will assist the GM in identifying potential community events, but will not have
Weapons, from page 1 the beginning of what could be a months-long process to whittle down a Master Developer, and ultimately come up with a specific plan for the development of the base. The presentations were about vision and land use, he said, and should be considered “introductory in nature.” “This is just the beginning,” he said. “We will have ample time to review all the proposals, and for more public input in the months to come.”
LENNAR On Feb. 11, both Lennar and SunCal delivered their initial presentations, again to a packed house. Lennar’s flagship projects include a 775-acre mixed-use redevelopment of the Hunters Point Shipyard near Candlestick Park in San Francisco, with 12,000 homes and 3.5 million square feet of commercial space, and 875,000 square feet of retail space. It also worked on the redevelopment of the Marine Corps Air Station in El Toro, CA, Mare Island in Vallejo and a project on Treasure Island. The Mare Island project consisted of 653-acre mixed use development with 1,400 homes and 7 million square feet of commercial and industrial space. More than either of the other presenters, the Lennar proposal was ambitious in scope, encompassing more than 1,000 acres of the CNWS — and more than the city required in their original Request for Proposals. It includes 5,920 homes — with 25 percent affordable housing — 6,347,345 square feet of commercial space, two schools, 114 acres of parks and three community centers. It also suggested changing the location of some of the developments the city wanted, such as a college campus, and installing a “solar farm” in the “Bunker City” area. SUNCAL SunCal is noted for its projects in Dublin Crossings, on old Camp Parks property. It is a 189-acre transit oriented master planned community, and will include up to 1,995 homes and up to 200,000
Bedecarré
C ORRESPONDENTS : Cynthia Gregory, Patricia Romero, John Jackson, John T. Miller
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words or less and submitted at least one week prior to publication date. Letters concerning current issues will have priority. We may edit letters for length and clarity. All letters will be published at the editor’s discretion. Please include name, address and daytime telephone number. We will not print anonymous letters. E-mail your letter to editor@concordpioneer.com. Letters must be submitted via Email.
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authority to approve or disapprove of event applications, which is under the purview of Live Nation. The international event producer has operated the Pavilion since 2000 and signed a new 10-year lease agreement with the city before the 2014 season, which was its most successful in many years. The city will be accepting applications for committee membership until March 6. The Council’s Recreation, Cultural Affairs
and Community Services Committee, comprised of Mayor Tim Grayson and Councilmember Edi Birsan, will interview the applicants with voting to take place by early April so the first of the committee’s quarterly meetings can be held in April.
square feet of commercial space. It is the largest ever federal land exchange with the U.S. Army. It also completed a 293-acre mixed use development, Amerige Heights, in Fullerton, and a 1,920mixed use master planned resort called Potomac Shores in Virginia, with approximately 3,800 homes and 3.7 million square feet of commercial space. Its vision for Concord includes 466 acres with 3,170 dwellings of multi-family, townhomes and single-family homes. It calls for 777,000 square feet of commercial space, one school and three community centers. Like the other Master Developers, it calls for development near the BART station, including housing, and also supports urban agricultural opportunities throughout its neighborhoods — such as vineyards, orchards and community gardens. After the presentations, city council members queried each developer with questions, but most of the comments and questions the council had — and they were numerous — were submitted in written form to be answered at a later date by the firms. Councilman Dan Helix asked each presenter what they had learned from their failures, as well as their successes. Councilman Ron Leone was concerned about “branding” the new developments so that they reflected the architecture and character of the existing Concord developments, such as a using the early California look of Todos Santos Plaza and the new downtown plans. Each council member underscored the importance of integrating the new developments with existing Concord neighborhoods, as to not create a sense of “two Concords.” And both Councilman Edi Birsan and Vice Mayor Laura Hoffmeister wanted to make sure that the streets of the new devel-
opment were pedestrian and bike friendly. Mayor Tim Grayson underscored the “Concord First” initiative, which encourages the Master developers to use local builders and other firms in their projects. After each presentation, scores of residents and other interested parties led a parade of public comments, all pushing forward their thoughts, visions and concerns about the project in general. Members of the Community Coalition for a Sustainable Concord, which worked with the city to get a preliminary plan for the CNWS development, reiterated the need for parks, community access, and using local labor in building out the site. Others, such as Hope Johnson from the Sun terrace neighborhood, had concerns that high rise developments would block views of Mt. Diablo for the existing neighbors. For now, the Master Developer candidates will have time to respond to the written comments and concerns of the council members and the public. The LRA has set up a committee to review the plans in more depth and whittle the trio down to two by April 7. The committee is made up of City Attorney Mark Coon, Deputy City Manager Jovan Grogan, Director of Community and Economic Development Victoria Walker, Finance Director Karen Reid, Housing and Economic Development Manager John Montagh, Parks Manager Steve Voorhies, Special Counsel to the LRA Craig Labadie and Real Estate Advisor to the LRA Paul Silvern. Powerpoint presentations from all of the Master Developer candidates will be available on the Reuse website at www.concordreuseproject.org, Wright said. Summaries and full proposals from the Master Developer candidates are also available there and on the city of Concord website at www.cityofconcord.org.
For an application visit the city website at www.ci.concord.ca.us or for more information call Joan Carrico during business hours at 671-3440.
Tamara Steiner editor@concordpioneer.com Send Ads to ads@concordpioneer.com Send Sports News to sports@concordpioneer.com Send School, Club and Calendar Items to newsandcalendar@concordpioneer.com
The Clayton Pioneer and the Concord Pioneer are monthly publications delivered free to homes and businesses in 94517, 94518, 94519 and 94521. ZIP code 94520 is currently served by drop site distribution. The papers are published by Clayton Pioneer, Inc., Tamara and Robert Steiner, PO 1246, Clayton, CA 94517. The offices are located at 6200 Center St. Suite H, Clayton, CA 94517 LET US KNOW Weddings, anniversaries, births and deaths all weave together as part of the fabric of our community. Please let us know of these important events. We ask only that the announcement be for a resident in our home delivery area. Submit on our website and be sure to attach a JPG photo that is at least 3 MB. Also on the website are forms for calendar items, events & press releases. LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Both Pioneer newspapers welcome letters from our readers. As a general rule, letters should be 175
CIRCULATION as of Sept. 2014 The Concord Pioneer is delivered monthly to 30,000 homes and businesses Papers are delivered by carriers for ABC Direct around the last Friday of the month. To stop delivery for any reason, call the office at (925) 672-0500 . If you are NOT receiving the Pioneer, please check the distribution map on the website. If you live in the shaded area and are not receiving the paper, please let us know. If you are not in the shaded area, please be patient. We will come to your neighborhood soon. The Clayton Pioneer is delivered by US Mail to 5,500 homes and businesses in 94517 around the second Friday of the month. SUBSCRIPTIONS To subscribe to either the Clayton Pioneer or the Concord Pioneer, call the office at (925) 672-0500. Subscriptions are $35/year for each paper, $60/year for both.
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CATELLUS Catellus presented their vision of development of 431 acres at the CNWS on Feb. 10. The firm is already engaged in or completed several other flagship projects, including a 303-acre mixed use landfill and rail yard development in San Francisco’s Mission Bay, with a new UC San Francisco campus, 6,900 units of housing, 5.1 million square feet of commercial space and a 500-room hotel. It also has a 72-acre mixed use project at the Naval Air Station in Alameda, and a 700-acre mixed use redevelopment project at an airport in Austin, Texas. The Concord plan calls for 4,285 dwelling units, of which 25 percent would be affordable housing. There would be 333,324 square feet of commercial space, one school and 63 acres of parks. Highlights of the plan included a Town Center near the BART with office, retail and multi-family residences, as well as a hotel. It would develop the BART parking lot to include high-density office and commercial uses jointly developed with BART. The plan calls for a diversity of housing, including mixed-use multi-family, a variety of attached housing and townhouses and small-lot single family homes. There would also be several community parks and a
greenway that connects to other regional parks and Willow Pass Park. There would be a joint community center and school.
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Tel: (925) 672-0500 Fax: (925) 672-6580
Pavilion Community Outreach advisory Committee formalized Concord City Council formalized a five-member Concord Pavilion Community Outreach Committee earlier this month and began accepting applications for the four open seats on the group. Candidates must be residents of Concord and will serve twoyear terms. Besides the four members who will be selected by the City Council the committee also includes Pavilion manager Aaron Hawkins representing Live
P.O. Box 1246 6200 Center Street, Suite H, Clayton, CA 94517 TAMARA AND R OBERT S TEINER , Publishers TAMARA S TEINER , Editor P ETE C RUZ , Graphic Design P EGGY S PEAR , Copy Editor J AY B EDECARRÉ, Sports Editor PAMELA W IESENDANGER , Administration, Calendar Editor
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Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
February 27, 2015
SCHOOLS Clayton Valley Charter looks ahead while two investigations take place JAY BEDECARRÉ Concord Pioneer
Clayton Valley Charter High School officials received a positive audit for the past school year and announced plans for a new all-weather athletic facility for students and the community, yet the tone and tension at the February governing board meeting was no different than the dozen or so sessions before it with two factions and familiar voices speaking for and against the school’s administration. The Contra Costa District Attorney and County Office of Education are each looking into allegations made against school leadership and the board. Complaints were filed by people dissatisfied with the operation of the school and its governing board dating back to the
removal at the end of the last school year of administrator and charter school movement leader Pat Middendorf by executive director Dave Linzey. DA Mark Peterson notified board chairperson Ted Meriam of five specific questions he wants addressed surrounding board procedures and actions as they relate to the Brown Act, a California statute that guarantees the public’s right to attend and participate in meetings of local legislative bodies. New county schools superintendent Karen Sakata sent a letter earlier this month raising 13 issues that have been presented to her office regarding “alleged governance, personnel and conflict of interest issues in connection with the operations and management of CVCHS.” This comes just weeks after the
CCCOE reauthorized the school’s charter for the maximum term through 2020 based on its performance since opening in the fall of 2012. The county action had an ironic twist when former CCCOE trustee Richard Asadoorian was elected to fill the retired teacher post on the CVCHS governing board. Asadoorian was an outspoken supporter of the charter on the county board of education but lost his reelection bid last November. Asadoorian replaces retired charter school founding board member Dick Ellis, who chose not to run for reelection. The other original candidate to replace Ellis, Clayton Valley school alumnus Bud Beemer, was judged by the school’s legal counsel as having two conflicts
of interest and thus should not be selected. New board member Jim Killoran and teacher Amber Lineweaver voted against Asadoorian’s nomination. The governing board is still one member shy of a full complement of nine as new teacher representative Victoria Campbell moved out of the area after serving just one meeting in her post. After the 2015-16 school year schedule was approved Linzey announced that CVCHS will approach Mt. Diablo Unified, which owns the campus property and facilities, about adding an all-weather turf field in a project estimated to cost $1.3 million. Linzey sought and received board approval for up to $1.6 million to complete the project, hopefully before the start of the fall term.
CVCHS
Robbie Parker
Media wrong in depicting teens
Teen Speak Google the word “teenager.” Searching this one, simple term will reveal dozens of blog entries, news reports and parenting articles with titles like “Teenagers: Why do they rebel?” and “Here’s why teenagers act crazy.” Digging a little further will reveal a whole new treasure trove of editorials that claim to explain precisely why so many teenagers are “addicted” to social media, drugs, alcohol and generally illicit behavior. Upon scanning through a handful of these web pages, I was shocked to learn how insubordinate, slothful and borderline manic-depressive teenagers really are! Clearly I, and my peers, have been blind to the fact that we are indeed an audacious and impulsive sub-
species of humans worthy of extensive research and psychoanalysis. The portrayal of the average teenager, as depicted in the media, is inaccurate. Selfabsorbed, attention-seeking, flippant, and lazy — these are the words commonly used to describe members of Generation Y and Z. Young Adult television, movies and fiction relentlessly and falsely explore topics like teenage pregnancy, boisterous parties, cyber-bullying, drug use and disrespect for authority. These topics have been so deeply ingrained in the American audience that they have become nearly inseparable from reality. And although these depictions are commonplace, they are relatively superficial.
Pine Hollow
Rayna Stanziano PINE HOLLOW CORRESPONDENT
Longtime teacher recalls 50 years of PHMS
This year, Pine Hollow celebrates its 50th anniversary. It has been open from 1954 to 2015. Ms. Hanson, Pine Hollow’s head P.E. teacher and creator of the P.E. shirt leadership program, has been teaching at Pine Hollow since the beginning. When asked how the local middle school has changed over the years, Ms. Hanson had many recollections of past years to share. One of the biggest changes has been advancements in technology. Today, Pine Hollow is
big on Chrome Books and computer tests, while the development of electronic computers was only just beginning in the 1950s. Computers in homes and schools as well as the Internet were foreign. Another major difference, Ms. Hanson said, is the culture and population variety. Classes that go through Pine Hollow today are mixes of many different children with different cultural beliefs. Students are also maturing much faster, partially because of this information age and exposure to dif-
The real issue with adolescent stereotypes: they enforce the falsehood that teenagers are incapable of presenting themselves in a socially, morally and intellectually conscious manner. It is honestly degrading and humiliating to be dismissed both socially and intellectually because I “lack experience” in the “real world.” While I have, in the past, expressed my onceunyielding disdain for apathetic teenage tendencies, my experiences in the last few years have drastically altered my perspective. Since that time, I’ve been doubted by my elders for having grandiose, non-conventional aspirations. Headlines remind me that I am egocentric, obsessed by trivial matters, and my only concern is my iPhone,
ferent types of people. Ms. Hanson also stressed the fact that there are many more single families today. Divorce is both more common and more widely accepted today than it was 50 years ago. In the 50s, societal pressure and economic incentive kept people from getting divorced. Student behavior has also changed drastically since the opening of Pine Hollow. Ms. Hanson said, “Students used to be afraid of teachers and now they're not.” Teachers are less strict today, leading students to feel more comfortable disobeying them. In addition, classrooms are more creative environments. Students are not just lectured to, but are allowed to learn in a more cooperative fashion. Ms. Hanson easily came up with an answer when asked what her favorite part of teaching was: “Working with kids and hopefully being a positive influence in their lives.” She also explained what inspired her to create the shirt
but the same analysts who make such claims shamelessly hand off a broken baton to my generation. It’s a discouraging contradiction. Considering our society is currently locked in a politically correct chokehold, it’s ironic that many young adults aren’t always permitted the opportunity to prove themselves as respectful, thoughtful and wellspoken. While I would never go as far as to say adults discriminate against young people, enforcing these derogatory stereotypes are certainly harmful to the largest group of people with the lowest self-esteem. Likewise, I would never claim that I am superior, or even equal, to an experienced adult; the brain of a human age 15-19 isn’t even fully developed yet. But the way that the media portrays teens gives the wrong impression of perhaps the most socially tolerant and well-educated generation to inhabit the U.S. thus far. Robbie Parker is a senior at CVCHS. Send your comments to editor@concordpioneer.com
MS. HANSON
program. “Basically, I wanted to develop a program where students could excel and be positive roll models for the school while learning important life skills.” She has certainly succeeded in creating a legacy, and Pine Hollow is a better school for her efforts. Rayna Stanziano is in the eighth grade at Pine Hollow. She has a passion for writing and loves English and swimming. She lives in Concord. Send comments to editor@concordpioneer.com
Concord High
Azeema Yahya CONCORD HIGH CORRESPONDENT
Leadership ‘DUDES’ honor volunteers
On Feb, 14, Concord High School’s Leadership put on a “DUDE. be nice” project. The “DUDE. be nice” project is sponsored by a national apparel company designed inspire young people to build positive community by recognizing a person or group in a creative way. This project is meant to make people feel appreciated. And that’s exactly what we did. Volunteers Mike and Julie Snow are celebrating their 10th year at Concord High School. They have been avid supporters of the instrumental music program, athletic boosters, minutemen militia, leadership, etc. The leadership class chose the Snows for the “DUDE. be nice” project as a way of showing appreciation for their hundreds of
Rianne Pfalzgraff CHS PRINCIPAL
hours of volunteer work. So, on Feb. 13, we created memories. The Snows were surprised to hear the band playing their favorite song, “Don’t Stop Believing” as they came into the gym for the assembly. Students then burst out of doors into the gym, each with a special note for the Snows. Following a slideshow highlighting their ten years of memories and volunteering, the Snows were escorted to their “new” car – a red 2015 Mustang convertible, rented by the leadership students for the rest of the day. For more information check out www.dudebenice.com. Azeema Yahya is a senior and Codrum Major. She loves music and plans to attend UC Davis in the fall. Send comments to editor@concordpioneer.com.
Teacher ‘shadows’ reflect teen lives
Concord High teachers are taking on a challenge this year by trying to answer the question: What is it like to be a student in the year 2015? We all have been there — high school, that is. But how has it changed from the perspective of that molded metal and fiberglass desk? In an effort to tackle this question, the teachers have agreed to participate in a student shadowing project. Teachers will be paired with a student for the entire day. They will take notes, participate in discussions, run in PE (yes!), take a quiz, and complete anything that the student completes. In an effort to get a wide range of student perspective, we asked each department to identify three to five students that would be good candidates to be shadowed. The students selected ranged in academic ability,
level of involvement in school and diversity. Upon selection, the students were given the opportunity to ask questions and hear information about the project. They were excited at the opportunity to share what they go through with the teachers and seemed grateful that we would take the time to consider their experience. To this day, 10 teachers have participated in the venture. They all had profoundly difference experiences, but all said that it was truly valuable insight into the lives of our teenagers at school. Many indicated that it forced them to reflect on their practices and strategies of engaging students. We hope that this fosters ongoing reflection as we watch the world change around us. Send comments and questions to editor@concordpioneer.com
Looking for Highlands Elementary Alumni- students, teachers or parents of 60s through 90s Highlands Elementary School in Concord’ celebrates its 50th birthday this year. To celebrate the anniversary, the Parent Teachers Association is putting together a display for the library and is looking for photos, clippings and other memorabilia and memoirs of notable events for the display. Please email any stories, scanned photos or news clippings to ptahighlands@yahoo.com or mail to 1325 Pennsylvania Blvd., Concord 94521 by March 10.
February 27, 2015
Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
One Billion Rising campaign against violence comes to Carondelet
Northgate
JAY BEDECARRÉ Concord Pioneer
Statistics show that one in three women across the planet will be beaten or raped during her lifetime—-meaning one billion women and girls will be assaulted. In order to shed light on this staggering issue the global movement One Billion Rising started in 2012. For the past three years Carondelet High School students have taken part in the movement held around Valentine’s Day. During the Feb. 12 lunch hour the all-girls Concord campus was part of One Billion Rising with students praying and dancing together as did women around the world to shed light and demand justice for the victims of violence. Junior Adriana Richmond
See 1 Billion, page 12
Page 11
Emily Wright
Students spring into Senior Projects
NORTHGATE CORRESPONDENT
Photo courtesy Carondelet High School
It wasn’t the usual lunch hour at Carondelet High School Feb. 12 when the majority of the students at the all-girls Catholic school participated for the third year in the international movement One Billion Rising, an awareness building experience of prayer and dancing to end violence against women.
The first whisper of spring has hit Northgate High School, and with this comes “Senior Projects.” Each senior will choose a large, tangible project to work on for most of the rest of the semester. It might be something the student creates, or it could be learning a new skill, or perhaps helping the community in some way. Once a project is chosen, the seniors create boards which explain their projects, and these boards are hung around the walls surrounding the school’s library. By seeing the boards on display, sometimes other students become interested in helping with a project. Someone might need to do a scientific study as part of their project, and students might
be inspired to become “test subjects.” Display boards also help underclassmen start thinking about their own future projects. I’m looking forward to seeing all of the ideas. I’m interested whether any projects will bring the school together, like a charity basketball game which raised
Michael McAlister
Learning 21st Century biotech skills
MDHS PRINCIPAL
This month’s Mount Diablo High School focus is the Medical and Bio-Technical Academy, MBTA. This high-achieving academy prepares students with the skills needed to enter the growing fields of medicine, health care, biotechnology and sports medicine. Students experience internships in a variety of medical and health related
careers, including placements at John Muir Medical Center and on-the-field experience as athletic trainers. Students are prepared for the demanding and competitive realms of post-secondary education and 21st Century workplaces. The MBTA faculty is an award-winning team of professional and caring educators.
Sandy Johnson-Shaw, physiology teacher, and Dan Reynolds, English teacher, are both past Mount Diablo Unified School District Teachers of the Year. Colin Jones, the academy’s bio-tech teacher, previously had a successful career in the bio-tech industry, working in both manufacturing and quality control. Danny Prodehl, the sports medicine
Best in Show for Serendipity students Students of Mt. Diablo High’s Serendipity Restaurant and Bakery recently put the heat on their competitors at the Regional FHA-HERO Conference in Sunnyvale. Serendipity students came away with the coveted Best in Show Award, five first place awards, three second place awards, three third place awards and three fourth place awards. Of the 17 students who participated from MDHS, 15 qualify to attend the State FHAHERO Conference and compete against the best in the state on April 25-28. The students and teachers spent many hours
Alberto Ruiz
after school preparing their creations in Culinary Arts Display, which consists of Advanced Presentation Cakes, Appetizers, Art Display, Breads, Decorated Wedding Cakes, Patisserie and Tortes. All students who enroll in the Serendipity Program at MDHS are members of FHAHERO, the career technical organization for students enrolled in Home Economics Careers and Technology (HECT) programs. This intracurriculum organization prepares members with leadership, career and citizenship skills for family, community and work roles.
New AP policies anger students
MDHS CORRESPONDENT
The AP students of Mount Diablo High School are outraged over the fees of this years AP tests. Not only did the fees increases this year to $98 per test, the payment process was moved online and goes through a third party that charged a 4 percent service fee, which made the grand total $102. This new process is being used district wide, but MDHS is hit hard by this fee as many families have unfortunate financial burdens. The 4 percent service charge was an unfair punishment upon many of our stu-
Tech growth, pool clicking at Northgate
NORTHGATE PRINCIPAL
Mt. Diablo High
Liane Cismowski
money for breast cancer a few years ago did. In the past, various students have created models to scale, held clothing drives, and rewritten books from a different character’s point of view. This year, once again, students could be creating original videos or composing music. The fun thing about a senior project is that it can be whatever someone chooses, because there are few strict guidelines regarding choices. As long as the senior project committees consider the project a large enough, worthwhile commitment, a senior is free to choose anything. Emily Wright is a senior at Northgate High School. She is currently the news editor for the Northgate Sentinel newspaper and is in her second year of ROP Journalism II. Email comments or questions to editor@concordpioneer.com
dents’ families, people who can nearly no longer afford to take these tests that they have worked so hard for. After various emails from the students and staff and having the issue being brought up at a recent MDUSD board meeting, the district finally responded and the 4 percent fee was officially dropped as of two weeks ago. One major issue still applies to MDHS solely in regards to using an online process to pay for AP testing fees. When asked about the fee and online payment process, the
MDHS college and career advisor and AP director, Mr. Jim Rowe, simply stated, “It’s fools folly in launching a website.” He expressed that before the district moved registration online, the website should have been tested before anyone used it. No one was notified of this new process until early January, two weeks before the AP registration window opened. The district failed to understand the socioeconomic background of MDHS in using this new process. We have an extremely diverse student body, many of whom come from low income families and where almost 78 percent of the student body are on free and reduced lunch and 42 percent don’t even have access to a computer at home. Even though students on free and reduced lunch get a huge discount on AP testing fees (paying only $5 per test) the process to get them registered is
teacher, was an EMT and fire fighter before coming to work in education full time. MBTA has a total of 15 teachers serving 268 students. Our MBTA seniors are involved in rigorous, real-world, authentic projects. Four of them are currently serving eight-week internships in the Emergency, Cardiology, Physical Therapy and Human Relations Departments at John Muir Hospital in Concord. Others are preparing to present high-level science projects with partners from the health care industry, institutes of higher education, and even NASA. The sports med seniors are all CPR certified and serve as trainers at MDHS sporting events. Not only are these students doing awesome things in class, they are representing our high academic standards in the community as they prepare to become health field professionals in the 21st century. Send comments and questions to editor@concordpioneer.com
cumbersome due to it being online. In order for the person to receive this discount, they must register online and then tell Mr. Rowe they registered. He receives no email notifications. On top of this, each student must present to him their free and reduced lunch slip along with a copy of their receipt which is then sent to the district offices by Mr. Rowe. It’s a very long and complicated process. It is quite clear that district’s intent to move AP registration online was in good intent but they failed to take into to account the struggles that could possibly ensue within the lower income high schools within MDUSD.
Alberto Ruiz is a senior at Mt. Diablo High where he is student body secretary and a member of the Medical Biotechnology Academy. Send questions and comments to editor@concordpioneer.com.
Over the last several weeks the Northgate community has watched its much anticipated pool begin to take shape. The cement is cured, the tiles are in place and the drainage piping is ready. All that’s needed now is for the deck to be poured and it will start to look like something inviting. In other news, students and staff are taking advantage of our increase in WiFi bandwidth. Northgate’s capacity has doubled since the middle of November with more to come in the time ahead. Speaking of technology, 10 of our finest teachers just returned from EdTech’s iPad Summit in San Diego. It was an inspiring event filled with useful information and applications of best practices in terms of using tablets in the classroom. What’s more, teachers have begun to use the materials that were introduced in
their classrooms. It’s an exciting time. Also, Northgate is proud of its National Merit Scholarship Finalists. Our students, Matthew Huang, Michelle Liang, Monishaa Suresh and Cara Van Uden have all been selected from students across the country. Nice work, Broncos. Finally, Northgate is tweeting. constantly. Staff, faculty and students have been using the social network, Twitter, as a way of communicating with each other and the community at large. In this way, it’s as if every day is like an open house where events and day-to-day happenings are offered to everyone. For those interested in joining in the fun, start by setting up an account at www.twitter.com and then begin following @NorthgateHS. Send comments and questions to editor@concordpioneer.com
Ygnacio Valley High In Gratitude Stephen Brady YGNACIO VALLEY PRINCIPAL
tenets of the International Baccalaureate program which we seek to implement. IB is a worldwide educational program supporting excellence individually and scholastically. Employing IB methodologies in our classes means our students learn multidisciplinary strategies through rigor. Instructors enthusiastically gave up part of their summer to join me in Lake Tahoe for IB training. On Feb. 10, leadership students attended Safer Internet Day at Facebook where California Attorney General Kamala Harris and Facebook COO Sheryl Sandberg talked about internet safety and responsibility. On Feb. 4 the YVHS marching and jazz bands journeyed to New Orleans to participate in the Krewes of Cleopatra Alla Mardi Gras parades. Each was a fivemile march. We celebrate senior Karla Ramos for her single season record (34 goals) scored by a single individual in soccer. YV drama students will present “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee”, April 17 24th.
In 2011-12, as a vice principal, I wrote the Safe/Supportive Schools grant for YVHS. During the following three years and due to the excellent work our Safety Coordinator George Streeter and Liaison Phillip Puentes, YVHS posted some of the greatest gains in campus safety throughout California. Our School Climate Index Score improved 63 percent and we climbed to the top quartile of safe schools by 50 percent, better than nearly 6 in 10 similar schools. Safe schools ensuring quality academics require vision. I collaborated with teachers, department chairs, administrators, staff, parents, and students to define the school’s vision: The Ygnacio Valley community graduates young adults prepared for life. Through engaging instruction, students explore their passions and identities through academic, artistic, athletic, college, career and extracurricular activities. Send comments and questions to We agreed to focus on preparing students for life. I believe in the editor@concordpioneer.com
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Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
February 27, 2015
In the ‘hood’
Dana Estates celebrates character, community COLLEEN GERAGHTY Special to the Pioneer
Nestled next to the hills of old Navel Weapon station you find an old-time neighborhood where people walk their dogs, sit on their front porch and talk to each other. With a population of more than 3,500 people — and that does not include the dogs and cats — this small community of Dana Estates thrives. Sylvester C Lawrence built the first 40 homes in Dana Estates in 1951. Eight hundred more homes were built in 1953 — the first homes in Concord with sewer lines. Many more homes were built throughout the 1950s. In the 1960s many of the neighbors agreed to put Maple tress in their front yard to make the neighborhood unique. Most of those trees still stand, giving charm to the neighborhood. It was not until late 1970 that the old horse ranch on Lynwood Drive was sold and developed into more homes. Gehringer Pool, built for the small community of the 1950s,
MAPLE TREE-LINED STREETS ARE THE SIGNATURE OF DANA ESTATES, one of the early home developments in Concord. The neighborhood boasts a swim and recreation club and one of the biggest community gardens in the area.
still stands. Once a neighborhood pool, it is now Gehringer Park Recreation Club and is opened and enjoyed by many. The Gehringer Gators Swim team is open to swimmers age 418 and they compete in the summer months. Adjoining Gehringer Pool is the Gehringer Park Community Garden, called “the best com-
munity garden in northern California.” It is one of Concord’s “best kept secrets.” They have a party in mid-August to share what they have grown. This year the party is tentatively being held Aug. 15. In 2000 Dana Estates partnered with the city of Concord and joined other neighborhoods of Concord on a traffic calming
campaign. Dana Estates took that opportunity to create DENA, Dana Estates Neighborhood Alliance, fully funded by donations from neighbors. In doing so, speed bumps were put in throughout the neighborhood. The purpose of DENA is to encourage and maintain a neighborhood of which residents can be proud, and increase
the feeling of security and alleviate concerns among neighbors. On Aug. 21, 2004, the first Dana Estates Night Out (associated with the National Night Out) was held. The small function was to create a way that the neighborhood could come together and get to know each other. As the years went by the event grew and moved to June,
with many community groups participating. By 2009 there were 21 non-profits and service organizations, including the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano Counties, Save Mount Diablo, Relay for Life and ARF. The main goal of the event is to learn about the service organizations and non-profits for volunteer opportunities in and around Concord — and of course to get to know your neighbor. Dana Estates in the essence of a neighborhood that cares about each other and about the city of Concord. Through DENA residents receive news on its website, Facebook page and newsletters. There is a Craft Fair coming Oct. 10 at Dana Plaza on Concord Blvd. and a Neighborhood Garage Sale on Aug. 22. This is an old-time neighborhood that will always thrive, together. The Concord Pioneer features a different neighborhood in every issue. To put the spotlight on your neighborhood, email editor@concordpioneer.com with a brief description, location & contact info.
Local auto repair business starts Clunkers4Charity’ and cashes in for Rotary JOHN JACKSON Correspondent
Old, rundown, and worn-out cars are translating to dollars for charity through the help of a Concord couple that saw an opportunity to contribute right in their own line of work. Dave and Mary Kemnitz have built a lifetime in the auto repair business and now have been heading up the “Clunkers4Charity” donation program for the past seven years. “We’ve been in the car business our whole life,” says Dave Kemnitz. “We just started our 20th year in business at D & H Enterprises,
which is the pioneer of all this.” Kemnitz goes on to explain that as cars would come into his repair shop and have problems exceeding the value of the vehicle, he would encourage the owner to donate the car to organizations such as the Polly Klaas Foundation or the Lindsay Wildlife Foundation. However, according to Kemnitz, he discovered in 2008 that these foundations take as much as 85 percent in “administrative fees” to complete the transaction of turning a car donation into cash. “It’s protocol in the car donation industry,” he says. “There’s no regulation in California that says how much
should go to the charity, and guess what, you can make a comfortable living doing it.” This angered Kemnitz and caused him to do something about it. He and his wife began researching a way that their auto shop could provide a direct donation service that would allow one hundred percent of the proceeds to go to charity. With their recent membership and involvement in the Clayton Valley Sunrise Rotary Club, they knew that the charitable outlets were nearly endless. The club actively seeks places to better the community and assist projects that create better situations
Your antivirus software is working — but are you? In a world filled with high technology gadgets, with application programs running on super-fast computers sporting advanced software applications that are designed to keep your computer healthy, safe and operational, why do these gizmos keep getting infected so badly they break down? Why do these bad things keep happening? Have you ever wondered why your computer gets infected? Is it a mystery to you? Do you believe something must be wrong with the defensive software you purchased, or some hardware went bad? Do you believe that attachment you received and opened was the source of your problem because bad things started happening shortly after? Perhaps it was something you forgot to do? Most likely your virus software is doing its job and your computer is just fine. But you still have problems keeping bad things out of your computer. Was it that attachment, a missed anti-virus update, perhaps you didn’t renew your antivirus subscription? You wouldn’t intentionally invite a virus or malware soft-
WILL CLANEY TECH TALK ware program into your computer, would you? Surely not malware or a virus that could harm you, hold your data ransom by encrypting the data and requiring you to make a payment to decode it? Or, worse, deleting your data altogether. What I am about to say may rattle you to the bone. In my experience your antivirus and anti-malware software is working to protect you. Attachments are usually screened by a decent antivirus program, the hardware rarely dies and allowing your subscription to lapse aren’t big issues. I am not saying a lapsed antivirus subscription can’t do harm, I am saying for the most part it isn’t an issue.
Think back, have you ever experienced a pop-up admonishing you to “scan” your computer because you have a virus, that in fact the quick scan report from the pop-up window says you are a suspect? The truth is your virus scanner will only report it has found an issue and has fixed it. The moral of the story: your protection software will protect. It won’t display something like “you may be infected.” Antivirus protects, that’s its job, it doesn’t guess or speculate. If and when it finds something mischievous it will fix it and tell you so. Perhaps you visited a website and a pop-up said something like, “To view this file you need to upgrade your Adobe Flash player, just click here.” This is such a simplistic come-on, isn’t it? So simple, just click here. Well, did you figure it out yet? The problem isn’t your computer, antivirus software, or a botched attachment. The problem, my friend, is you. William Claney is a professional computer consultant and technical writer. Will is the CEO of ComputersUSA!. Send comments to Editor@ConcordPioneer.com
for people and groups. In the past few years, their donations have included the Food Bank of Contra Costa, Camp Royal, the Clayton Library Foundation, research endeavors for the cure of polio, the “Every 15 Minutes” campaign, the Salvation Army, and a medical clinic in Mexico that needed cancerscreening equipment. For the logistics of the operation, Kemnitz contracted with Copart Auto Auctions, an enormous auto auction house that picks up the totaled cars from the auto shop and transports them to get cleaned up and auctioned off. “For example, I’ve got a ’99 Oldsmobile Silhouette sitting here right now with a blown engine,” Kemnitz says. “So I call Copart Auto Auctions and they dispatch their tow truck. They take it over to Martinez and charge me $135 to detail the vehicle, tow it, and post it on their online auction. That’s how they make their money, along with the fee they charge the buyer. I don’t take any administrative costs. I send
Photo courtesy Dave Kemnitz
Not all donated cars are clunkers. Dave and Mary Kemnitz stand with a 1969 Ford Thunderbird collector car donated by Marv Schick to Rotary which plans to sell the car for $4900 to be used for charitable needs.
everything I get on to the Rotary Club for charity.” In 2014, Clunkers4Charity turned over 150 vehicles into charity money through Kemnitz’s auto shop, each of them selling anywhere between $100 and $7,000. These cars totaled an estimated $50,000 that was given to the Rotary Club that was able to then be dispensed to many worthy causes. “What’s really cool about this is that we’re just changing
1 Billion, from page 11 said, “I am proud that my school was a part of a worldwide movement to uplift women and brought awareness to such an important issue. I look forward to the event each year!” Students and faculty at the Catholic school talked about this issue and decided each year since 2013 to learn and perform the One Billion Rising dance around Valentine’s Day, when literally thousands of people worldwide—-in hundreds of countries—- are dancing to the same music for the same cause. A recent Carondelet grad posted on Facebook this month, “My favorite part of Valentine’s Day Week...These pictures make me smile! My Valentine’s Day won’t be the same this year without doing the One Billion Rising Dance at CHS!” The movement’s website proclaims, “We rise through
dance to express joy and community and celebrate the fact that we have not been defeated by this violence. We rise to show we are determined to create a new kind of consciousness – one where violence will be resisted until it is unthinkable.” Carondelet student activities director Sarah Daniel organized the event and ASB led the “break the chain” dance to the song of the same name by Tena Clark. The dance was followed by Zumba with Midori Miller from Club Sport Walnut Creek. “I think it’s great that Carondelet participates in the worldwide movement of One Billion Rising and I love being a part of spreading such a positive message,” said junior Giovy Webb. Sophomore Jasmine Scott adds, “Because we’re an all-girl school I think it’s awesome that women are helping women.”
tremendous amounts of lives,” Kemnitz says as he recounts the successes of the program. “People always ask me, ‘Dave, how do you get paid?’ How I get paid is to see how many lives are changed with this cash. It’s just tremendous.” Vehicle donations to Clunkers4Charity are tax deductible. For more information, or to donate, please visit www.clunkers4charity.org.
Raeann Batu, a senior, said, “I took part in the event because I love to dance, but mostly because I believe in women empowerment.” “I think that it is an amazing experience that CHS allows us to have. I love how we get to come together as sisters and stand up against such an important issue. It’s one of my favorite events at Carondelet,” adds ASB vice president Maddy Duncan. Sisters Sydney and Cassidy Tshimbalanga shared their Carondelet experience on the One Billion Rising website: “Each day we experience a wonderful spirit of sisterhood at our school. One Billion Rising allows us to share a global experience of sisterhood with women and young girls around the world. We love the message, the energy and the excitement of the movement. As daughters of the US and Africa, we particularly share this movement with our sisters in the Congo.”
February 27, 2015
Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
Page 13
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Sticking it to the Spirit Poles of Concord CAROL LONGSHORE
OLD NEWS There was quite a stir in town back in l989, if you recall. Concord’s then-Mayor, Steve Weir, along with council members June Bulman, Diane Longshore, Ron Mullin and Colleen Coll, proposed a onehalf percent fee to developers for art in public places. With the fees, the council and several commissions decided to hire artist Gary Rieveschi with his vision, the Spirit Poles. The Spirit Poles symbolized Concord’s growth since
the time of the Native Americans. The pattern of the Poles represented patterns of growth and change. There were 91 silver shafts planted at odd angles, ranging from eight feet to 50 feet and weighing as much as 100 pounds each. Concord Avenue was being widened and it seemed like the perfect spot to honor the Native Americans and the city’s growth. They were to have vines growing up their staff and flags flying on special celebrations. It seemed like a good idea. However, the residents were outraged and horrified — at least most of them. The press caught hold of the story and started running polls and interviewing people and, basi-
cally, making fun of the Poles. Even The National Enquirer — the best read gossip sheet at the time — called them “the ugliest publicly funded sculpture in America.” As you can see by the picture, which was taken on a foggy day, the radio media even got involved. The public realized, although too late, how the funds were spent and how much more it would cost to get rid of the Poles. The council was in a quandary. Bulman continued to defend her vote and in the election in 1990, Lloyd Mashore send flyers around that had a picture of the Spirit Poles and the question, “Had enough yet?” Bulman lost and a whole new Concord
Heartfelt decisions must be made in dementia cases
SUE CAPSON
SENIOR MOMENTS
Often harder than the loss of a loved one to death is the loss of a personality to dementia. Along with this devastating loss are the future implications not only for the loved one suffering from the disease but also for the family members who must make complex decisions in their behalf. Whether it be a father, mother, husband, wife or grandparent who is affected by this disease, at
some point in our lives we may be faced with the challenge of how to care for a loved one who has dementia. Options may be limited due to income, personal or family constraints, or lack of information and community resources. The basic questions we may be required to explore are When? Why? Where? How?
See Dementia, page 15
Documentary focuses on threat to education GUITY ARFAA KIANI Special to the Pioneer
On March 6, local residents can join in the launch of the international “Education is Not a Crime” campaign, with screenings of Maziar Bahari’s new documentary film, “To Light a Candle.” The public information officers of the Baha’i communities of Concord and Clayton, Shirlie Burriston and Guity Kiani, say all 110 members of their communities are involved in this campaign, because they strongly believe education is so important in building peaceful and progressive communities and it is a vital issue for all residents. These grassroots screenings are part of “Education Is Not a Crime” Day, Feb. 27, 2015. The campaign website, www.educationisnotacrime.me , features voices of support from around the world, and
tells a comprehensive story of the Baha’is in Iran, a religious minority that has overcome severe persecution to build solidarity, fortitude and hope among its people through its passion for education. Since the Islamic Revolution of 1979, the Baha’i community has been the target of systematic state-sponsored repression. Forbidden from attending or teaching at universities, the community established the Baha’i Institute for Higher Education (BIHE) in 1987. Through BIHE, the community has championed equality and nonviolence, garnering support from educators around the world. Yet its students and teachers still face enormous obstacles: classes are held in people’s homes and the threat of arrest is part of daily life. The film and campaign are aimed at exposing social injustice and religious intolerance
through personal stories and rare footage – often smuggled out of Iran at great personal risk. “Education Is Not a Crime” is a powerful statement – not only about the spirit and determination of the Baha’is of Iran, but also about the vital role of education in building communities and sustaining hope. The nearest screening of “To Light a Candle” will be held at 7:30 p.m. March 6 at a private residence in Clayton. For address and directions, call 925-672-6686. At the screenings, two UC Berkeley graduate students who originally experienced this repression in their homeland will introduce the film and to relate their experiences. For additional information, please contact Guity Kiani at 925-672-1095 or gkiani@yahoo.com.
leadership began. It took 11 years for the lawyers to work out how much Rieveschi should receive to surrender his claim to the Poles and remove them. During those 11 years, vines were planted to grow but never did, flags were hung, but nothing looked quite right. Someone put a pillow on top of one and it looked like a marshmallow on a stick. One person’s uncle recognized them as an American Indian stick pole game. The talk went on and in 1999 one fell in a wind storm, as if Mother Nature herself was saying, “Get these out of here!” The then-council, Bill McManigal, Helen Allen, Mike Pasterick, Laura Hoffmeister and Mark Peterson, got the ball rolling to finalize the removal of the Spirit Poles in 2001. They were auctioned off to a company from China. Carol Longshore has been a Concord resident since 1950. She is a community leader and current president of the Concord Historical Society. Send comments and suggestions for future topics to editor@concordpioneer.com.
THE SYMBOLISM BEHIND CONCORD’S SPIRIT POLES was lost on most who saw the poles as simply ugly or sinister.
How to protect your ‘digital estate’ In today’s day and age, it’s difficult, arguably impossible, to not be digitally connected to one another through the web. Whether it’s on various social media sites or online banking, your personal data is being watched and often times collected without notice. So how does one keep track and, more importantly, secure their digital estate? Unfortunately, there is not silver bullet solution to this and even going “off the grid” is not a viable strategy today. So if you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em, right? Well, maybe not join ‘em, but strategically safeguard yourself. In this month’s article I’ll share with you some helpful ways to secure your digital estate. H ARDWARE AND S MARTWARE All digital hardware such as laptops, USB drives, tablets and smartphones now speak with one another in various “ecosystems.” As a result, it’s important use this to your advantage and build redundancy, making sure your hardware is on a routine back-up plan. Within the Apple ecosystem Time Machine, which can be connected to an external hard drive, is a great option. Additionally, cloudbased software such as Back Blaze, Carbonite or Barracuda
offer continuous back up solutions so long as you are connected online. These are a few inexpensive options to consider, especially for protecting those precious family photos or sensitive financial documents. PASSWORDS E VERYWHERE With so many subscription-based websites, online banking, email accounts as well as social media, it’s becoming more and more difficult to keep track of all the various passwords for each. Furthermore, with website security tightening down, more complicated passwords are required. It’s unsafe to use just your wedding month or your second child’s date of birth as a password. So the question becomes, how does one keep track of all the websites, usernames and passwords? Well, there is always Excel, which would require the discipline of manually updating and possibly storing locally on your computer. However, with today’s on-to-go mentality, a more automated approach may be a good alternative. Software such as RoboForm will store the website links, usernames and passwords. The software will sync with your other smart devices as
JOHN WENZEL, CFP FINANCIAL SENSE well and will generate passwords as needed. Most importantly, should a smart device be stolen, you can recover and reset passwords through the cloud-based technology. S O W HAT ’ S O NE TO D O ? With technology not only at our doorstep, but also now in our pocket or purse, it’s important to know how to protect yourself. Should something happen to your device or even you, it’s imperative that another trusted individual is informed on how to access the necessary information to settle or administer your estate. I would encourage you to confirm what’s best for you by speaking with a comprehensive wealth manager who holistically reviews not only your “real” estate needs but also your “digital” estate. John Wenzel is an investment advisor with Archvest Wealth Advisers. Send questions and comments to john@archvestwa.com
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Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
February 27, 2015
CALENDAR PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR COMMUNITY CALENDAR EVENTS BY 5 P.M. MARCH 18 FOR THE MARCH 27
IN CONCORD On Sale Now Concerts The Concord Pavilion is located at 2000 Kirker Pass Road, Concord. theconcordpavilion.com. Concert schedule for 2015: May 28, Tony Bennett and Lady Gaga, 7 p.m. July 21, 5 Seconds of Summer, 7 p.m. Aug. 7, Idina Menzel, 7 p.m. Aug. 26, Slipknot, 7 p.m.
Feb. 27 Health Expo
ISSUE. ITEMS MUST BE SUBMITTED BY EMAIL TO
Mar. 6 “Live at the Orinda”
Mar. 29 “Immortal Beloved”
Laughter and libations presented by the Orinda Chamber of Commerce. Jimmy “JJ” Walker headlines. 8 p.m. Orinda Theatre, 4 Orinda Theatre Square. $20-$100. orindachamber.org.
Presented by Contra Costa Chamber Orchestra. 7:30 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $10-$30. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.
Mar. 6 - 8 “Forbidden Broadway” Off-Broadway hit musical revue by Brentwood Theater Company. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $25$40. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.
Mar. 7 Sitkovetsky Trio
Age Strong, Live Long Health Expo. Senior citizens and family members invited. Presentations, vendors, health screenings. 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Concord Senior Center, 2727 Parkside Circle, Concord. Free. cityofconcord.org/healthfair.
Presented by Chamber Music SF. 2:30 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $47-$51. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.
Mar. 17 – Apr. 28 CERT Basic Training
Mar. 8 “French Impressions”
Concord’s Community Emergency Response Team teaches you how to prepare for and protect your family and neighbors in a disaster. Open to Concord & Clayton residents. 20-hour course, Tuesdays, six weeks. 6:30 p.m. Concord Police Department, 1350 Galindo St., Concord. Free. concordcert.org. 603-5933.
IN CLAYTON Mar. 1 Chili Cook-Off Contestants must register. Public enjoys samples after judging. 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Prizes awarded at 1 p.m. Clayton Club Saloon, 6096 Main St., Clayton. claytonclubsaloon.com. 673-0440.
Mar. 27 - 29 Creekside Arts
Presented by Contra Costa Wind Symphony. 7:30 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $18-$25. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.
Mar. 10 Walnut Creek Concert Band Performs band classics from Bach to Bernstein. 7:30 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $14-$17. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.
Mar. 11 “In the Mood” Fully staged tribute to big bands. 2 p.m. El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $34-$37. elcampaniltheatre.com.
Mar. 12 – 15 “Pinocchio”
Arts, entertainment, environmental education. This year’s theme, “The Future Belongs to Those Who Believe in the Beauty of Their Dreams.” Fri. 6 – 8 p.m. Sat. 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sun. 12 – 5 p.m. Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. Free. claytonlibrary.org.
Presented by Fantasy Forum Actors Ensemble. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $14. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.
Apr. 15 – 19, 22 – 25 “Arsenic and Old Lace”
Mar. 12 – 29 “My Mother’s Italian, My Father’s Jewish, I’m in Therapy!”
Classic comedy about two lovable ladies who poison lonely old men and bury them. Apr. 15 preview is a fundraiser for Relay For Life. Endeavor Hall, 6008 Center St., Clayton. $16-$22. brownpapertickets.com. claytontheatrecompany.org. 222-9106.
Presented by Playhouse Productions. Del Valle Theater, 1963 Tice Valley Blvd., Walnut Creek. $65. 943-7469.
ON THE MOUNTAIN
Comedy. 8 p.m. California Theatre, 351 Railroad Ave., Pittsburg. $17-$20. pittsburgcaliforniatheatre.com. 427-1611.
Mount Diablo Interpretive Association programs listed are free with the exception of park entrance fee. Go to mdia.org and click on Events Calendar for more information.
Mar. 13 Scott Capurro
Mar. 13 – 14 “Untamed: The Winter Dance Series”
Mar. 8 Eagle Peak Hike
Presented by Smuin Ballet. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $73. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.
Climb past Mitchell Rock via Twin Peaks to Eagle Peak. Great view. 10:30 a.m.–5 p.m. Meet at Mitchell Canyon Trailhead
Mar. 14 “3.141592 etc.”
Mar. 15 Diablo Falls Hike
Presented by Ready or Not Improv. 8:15 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $15. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.
Hike up Back Canyon to Murchio Gap, then descend to Falls Trail. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Meet at Mitchell Canyon Trailhead.
Mar. 15 Wildflowers of Mount Diablo Visual presentation of an array of flowers that bloom from Feb. through June. 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Summit Audio Visual Room.
Mar. 22 Oyster Point Hike Stunning vistas, wildflowers and a little bit of poetry. 9:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Meet at Curry Point Trailhead.
EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Mar. 14 Mariachi Divas South-of-the-border evening of cheerful music. 8 p.m. El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $25-$27. elcampaniltheatre.com.
Mar. 17 – 21 “Percussion Discussion” Presented by Ken Bergmann. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $14. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.
Mar. 19 – Apr. 5 Improv Playhouse of San Francisco
Thru Feb. 28 “The Book Club Play”
Presented by CenterRep. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $20-$30. centerrep.org.
A comedy about books and people who love them. Lesher Center , 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $33-$58. centerrep.org.
Mar. 20 - Apr. 19 “The Music Man”
Feb. 27 – Mar. 8 “Into the Woods”
Funny, warm, romantic and touching. Presented by Contra Costa Musical Theatre. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $44-$54. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.
The Brothers Grimm fairytales collide in this epic tale. California Theatre, 351 Railroad Ave., Pittsburg. $10-$25. pittsburgcaliforniatheatre.com. 427-1611.
Mar. 21 James Clark and the Jail House Rockers
Feb. 28 “The Acoustic Reunion Concert”
A tribute to Elvis. 2 p.m. El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $25-$27. elcampaniltheatre.com.
Presented by Randyn Seymon and Bill Younger. 6:15 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $13-$17. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.
Mar. 22 “Enigma Variations”
Feb. 28 The Sun Kings
Presented by Diablo Symphony Orchestra. 2 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $12-$28. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.
Spot-on recreation of The Beatles. 8 p.m. El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $25-$27. elcampaniltheatre.com.
Mar. 22 “Hello, Gorgeous! A Live Tribute to Barbra Streisand”
Feb. 28 – Mar. 14 “The Foursome”
Presented by West Coast Performing Arts Presenters. 3 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $40$45. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.
Four old college chums catch up on their lives over a round of golf. Onstage Theatre at the Campbell Theatre, 636 Ward St., Martinez. $12-$18. 518-3277.
Mar. 26 21st Anniversary Performance
Feb. 28 – Mar. 15 “Mr. Burns”
Presented by Diablo Ballet. 6:30 p.m. Lesher Center, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $28-$54. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.
A.C.T. presents an outrageous and enthusiastically acclaimed dark comedy by Bay Area-born playwright Anne Washburn. The Geary Theater, 415 Geary St., San Francisco. $20-$120. actsf.org. (415) 749-2228.
Mar. 28 “Immortal Beloved”
Mar.2 “Big Band Summit”
newsandcalendar@concordpioneer.com
Contra Costa Chamber Orchestra. 2 p.m. El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $7-$15. elcampaniltheatre.com.
Mar. 28 Pacifica Quartet
Featuring the Las Lomas High School Big Band, Northgate High School Big Band and the Jazzschool Studio Band. 7:30 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $7-$12. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.
Presented by Chamber Music SF. 2:30 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $47-$51. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.
Mar. 3 Concert
Mar. 29 “Easter Parade: In Concert”
Presented by Diablo Wind Symphony. 7:30 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $6-$10. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.
A celebration of one of Irving Berlin’s most memorable film scores. 3 p.m. El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $25. elcampaniltheatre.com.
SCHOOLS Mar. 13 – 29 “Picasso at the Lapin Agile” Absurdist comedy placing Pablo Picasso and Albert Einstein in a Parisian café in 1904. Diablo Valley College, 321 Golf Club Road, Pleasant Hill. $16-$21. dvcdrama.net.
CHURCHES AND RELIGION Feb. 28 Annual Daddy Daughter Dance Open to the public: girls and dads, uncles, granddads and friends of all ages. Professional portrait, dessert and dancing. Disney’s “Frozen” theme. Sponsored by Clayton Community Church. 6:30 – 9 p.m. Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Drive, Clayton. $25 per couple; $5 each additional guest. Register at claytoncc.com/#/event-registration. For more information, contact Carol Gaiser at cgaiser@pacbell.net or 890-5301.
FUNDRAISERS Mar. 1 A Stroll Through New Orleans Music and silent auction to benefit high school students in alternative programs in Mt. Diablo Unified School District. Hosted by Mount Diablo Alternative Education Foundation. 2 – 4 p.m. Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek. $10-$25. brownpapertickets.com.
Mar. 7 Delta Blues Festival Benefit Concert All profits benefit funding the next Delta Blues Festival. 7 p.m. El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $15-$40. elcampaniltheatre.com.
Mar. 14 Crab Feed Crab feed, dancing, raffles and auction by Clayton Valley Charter High School Athletic Boosters Club. 5:30 p.m. Centre Concord, 5298 Clayton Road, Concord. $50; $60 after Feb. 28. cvhsboosters.org.
Mar. 21 Banquet Dinner, auction, raffle to benefit Ygnacio Valley High School Athletic Boosters. 6:30 – 10:30 p.m. St. John Vianney Church, 1650 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek. Adults only. $35 by Mar. 1; $40 after. For more information: heidihastings@att.net or 671-6861.
AT THE LIBRARY The Concord Library is at 2900 Salvio St. Programs are free unless otherwise noted. See full schedule of events at ccclib.org or 6465455.
Fridays and Saturdays thru Apr. 11 Free Tax Assistance The library and AARP partner to provide free tax assistance to low and middle income people. Call for appointment: 4055135.
Mar. 12 Small Claims Advisor Workshop Presented by Contra Costa County Superior Court. 5:30 p.m. Registration required: smallclaims@contracosta.courts.ca.gov.
Mar. 26 Financial Education Workshop Solving the mystery of credit reports. 6 p.m. English; 7:30 p.m. Spanish. Registration requested.
Mar. 30 Read eBooks on a Computer Workshop How to check out and read eBooks on a computer. Computers available. Class location: Concord Senior Center, 2727 Parkside Circle, Concord. 1 p.m. Registration required: concordreg.org, class 97095.
Mar. 31 Checkout Free Library eBooks Workshop Learn how to download free eBooks and audio books on your eReader, tablet or smart phone. 1 p.m. for Kindle devices; 2:30 p.m. for iPads, Nooks and Androids. Class location: Concord Senior Center, 2727 Parkside Circle, Concord. $2. Registration required: concordreg.org, class 97092 for 1 p.m. class; 97093 for 2:30 p.m. class. The Clayton Library is at 6125 Clayton Road. Programs are free unless otherwise noted. See full schedule of events at claytonlibrary.org or call 673-0659.
Mar. 7 20th Anniversary Celebration The Clayton Community Library Foundation celebrates its 20th anniversary at their annual meeting. Open to the public. Cake and recognition of volunteers of the year. 10 a.m.
Mar. 9 Clayton Library Book Club Sunny Solomon leads the discussion of “Whistling Past the Graveyard” by Susan Crandall. Open to anyone who wants to join. 7 p.m.
GOVERNMENT 1st, 2nd and 4th Tuesdays Concord City Council 6:30 p.m., Council Chamber, Concord Civic Center, 1950 Parkside Dr. cityofconcord.org.
1st and 3rd Wednesdays Concord Planning Commission 7 p.m., Council Chamber, Concord Civic Center, 1950 Parkside Dr. cityofconcord.org.
February 27, 2015
Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
Page 15
PETS
DEBBIE DEMELLO
PET PALS When you foster a dog or cat, you take a homeless pet into your home and give him or her love and care and attention while the search goes on for a permanent home. There are many reasons why a pet might need a foster home. Rescue groups that take animals from overcrowded shelters typically don’t have their own physical shelter and depend on foster homes to care for a pet until a suitable home is found.
Sometimes a puppy or kitten is too young to be adopted and needs a safe place to stay until old enough to go to a forever home. A dog or cat may be recovering from a surgery or illness or injury and needs a safe place to recuperate. Sometimes an animal is just too stressed in a shelter environment. Or maybe he hasn’t lived in a home before and needs help being socialized. Fostering a pet can mean the difference between life and death for an animal. Providing foster care or a dog or cat will certainly be a rewarding experience. It can also be an emotional experience. Sending a successful foster pet off to his forever home can bittersweet. You are saying goodbye to a friend, which hurts. But you are also sending him to his forever home, a place where he will be cherished and loved. Sometimes there is a need for end of life foster care, or “
fospice.” This is for senior pets who have been abandoned in their old age who desperately need the comfort of a home and a family. Debbie Barella and Nicole Turner fostered an old boy named Roadie. He was a 140pound, 14-year-old Mastiff mix. He’d been neglected for years, full of tumors and overweight. With the love and care of Barella and Turner, Roadie walked off his extra 20 pounds and enjoyed 10 months of a wonderful life. Roadie finally lost his battle and died with the people that loved him the most. “Hardest day of my life but I’d do it again in a minute. Thanks Roadie,” said Barella. Corinne Tate fostered a broken and sad little pit bull-mix puppy. Gertie had a bad case of demodex mange and no one wanted to touch her. Corinne took her straight to her vet and she began a several months
recovery filled with daily medications and lots of love from Tate and her other dogs. Tate said “watching her recovery was like watching a flower bloom. She turned from something that resembled a little alien monster into a beautiful little girl.” Gertie was eventually adopted and is doing very well. “She will always have a piece of my heart. You saved me too. I love you Gert-Gert,” said Tate. If you think being a foster parent is for you, a good first step is to contact a local rescue organization and ask questions. Most rescuers are financially responsible for food, crates, vet bills and so on. All you need is the desire to make a difference in a pet’s life.
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Bianca and Cirrus are ARF’s adoption stars playful. She is suitable for a first time cat guardian. The adoption fee for adult cats is $50. Meet your forever friend at Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation, 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek, during adoption hours: Noon to 6 pm Wednesday & Thursday, Noon to 7 pm Friday, and Noon to 6 pm Saturday & Sunday. The primary caretaker must be present to adopt. ARF also encourages kids 16 and younger and canine family members (dog adoptions only) to be present during the adoption process. BIANCA
Five-year-old Blanca is an enthusiastic, outgoing girl. She’ll enjoy meeting new people and going on adventures. Blanca previously lived with children, cats and other dogs and loved them. We recom-
CIRRUS
mend Blanca take a Small Dog or Basic Manners class where she can start a new life with you with the best paw forward. She currently weighs 13 pounds and is suitable for a first time dog guardian.
Dementia, from page 13 When is it time to change the current situation or care for a loved one with dementia? For months or years you may be asking yourself the questions: “Am I doing the right thing for my loved one?” Is the living environment safe? Is my loved one receiving enough stimulation and socialization? Is the proper medical treatment being given? Even if the answer to these questions is “yes,” what is the impact on family members? The bottom line is that the time to make a change is when the current situation is no longer working and it is negatively affecting the lives of those in the circle of caring. The answers to “why” questions may become uncertain because of family pressures, feelings of guilt, cultural expectations and financial options. You may be asked, “Why don’t you get help in caring for Dad?” or “Why aren’t you caring for him yourself ?” or “Why did you put him away in a care facility?” or “Why are you spending all that money when we can take care
of him ourselves?” You will likely get the “why” questions regardless of the care option you choose, so try to be prepared for them. The great challenge for the decision-maker is to make an informed optimal choice. This is based upon a thorough understanding of the options which will lead to the most favorable outcome for the person suffering from dementia as well as the family members who are invested in caring for the loved one. If more than one person is involved in the decision-making, which is often the case with multiple siblings in a family, the person who is most affected by the day-to-day care should have the most power in making the decisions. This can sometimes cause a lot of stress or disagreement among family members and in this instance it might be helpful to have an objective and well-informed third party present to help facilitate the discussions. Once a calculated, caring and wellinformed decision is made, you can have more confidence
The adoption fee for adult dogs is $225 and includes 50% off one 7-week dog training session. Eighteen-month-old Cirrus is a beautiful girl. She is also confident, sociable, sweet, and
when the well-meaning but not so helpful “why” questions are asked. The principal decision that must be made is where to place a loved one who has dementia. Exploring these options will undoubtedly take much time and effort. As you come to a decision as to whether or not a loved one can be best cared for at home or at a care facility, it will need to be based on the needs, desires and personal resources of family members, the financial resources available, and the types of care facilities that exist in the location in which you are searching. In large metropolitan areas your choices for care facilities will be a lot broader than in small communities. The two most common options available in Contra Costa County are small six-bed homes and larger assisted living communities which have dementiasecured units. If the choice is made to place a loved one in a care facility, one thing to be aware of is that not every person suffering from dementia needs to live in the secured area of that facility. The person suffering
Would you like to be part of the heroic team that saves the lives of rescued dogs and cats? Can you share your talents to connect people and animals? ARF volunteers are making a difference! For more information see our website, www.arf.net, or call 925.256.1ARF.
from dementia may appropriately be placed in an nonsecured assisted living situation if the person is determined to be safe in that environment (he does not engage in wandering behavior, for example), and if that person is able to behave appropriately in social situations. When a loved one experiences the mental and physical ravages of dementia, family members are faced with challenging decisions regarding the care of their loved one. Armed with sufficient knowledge and a realistic understanding of available options, decisions can be made that will provide the best possible outcomes for both our loved one who suffers from dementia and for those who are placed in a position to make care decisions. Sherry Shields contributed to this article. Sue Capson is Executive Director of The Courtyards at Pine Creek Assisted Living and Memory Care in Concord. For comments or suggestions on future articles, email scapson@courtyardsatpinecreek.com.
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Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
February 27, 2015
SPORTS Spartans last locals standing in NCS JAY BEDECARRÉ Concord Pioneer
Six girls and five boys teams from local high schools qualified for the North Coast Section soccer playoffs but as the semi-finals took place Wednesday evening only sixtime champion De La Salle was still alive after the opening two rounds. Eliminations came in all sorts of ways including penalty kick shootout, overtime, narrow one-goal loses and some blowouts. Coach Derricke Brown’s De La Salle team defeated Irvington 7-0 and then edged San Leandro 2-1 to reach Wednesday’s Division I boys semis where the Spartans hosted Freedom of Oakley. DLS has won the past six section championships and nine since 2001. Only two non-East Bay Athletic League schools have taken DI boys section crowns since 2001. Diablo Valley Athletic League champion College Park looked headed to the DI boys semis when they took a 3-0 lead over Dublin in the quarterfinals before getting tied 3-3 and then losing in a 5-4 penalty kick shootout to the Gaels. Northgate won its Division II boys opener 4-0 over
See NCS Soccer, page 18
Jason Rogers photo
CLAYTON VALLEY CHARTER HIGH SCHOOL WON THE DVAL GIRLS SOCCER TITLE with a final game 1-0 victory over College Park, culminating a late-season run for coach Christina Ballard’s team. The Lady Eagles then got an 11th seed for NCS playoffs and promptly knocked off No. 6 Freedom of Oakley 2-1 in the opening round. This moved them into the quarterfinals against the other Oakley school, Liberty, but there the season ended as CVCHS lost a tough 1-0 game. In the NCS victory four-year Eagles varsity player Kimi Dennis (right) of Clayton Valley took on Freedom’s Kaytlin Brinkman (6), who plays club soccer locally for Diablo FC 99.
Several area teams have high seeds, expectations for North Coast Section basketball playoffs run and NorCal berths JAY BEDECARRÉ Concord Pioneer
Carondelet, De La Salle and Clayton Valley Charter have the highest seeds and biggest expectations as nine local teams entered North Coast Section basketball playoffs this week. Elgin Leslie is the new Carondelet coach and it looks like the Cougars have barely missed a beat compiling a 242 record to gain the top NCS Division II seed. Carondelet has won 10 of the past 12 NCS DII titles including the past three.
DLS is second seeded in DI boys while CVCHS is No. 3 in DI girls giving Concord schools three excellent chances to advance though NCS and perhaps into NorCal as all three teams did the last two years. Clayton Valley Charter has lost the DII section girls title game three of the past four years yet still advanced to the Northern California Championship playoffs each time. Clayton Valley had a 36-game Diablo Valley Athletic League winning streak broken by Northgate early this month but then won six straight
including both games in the league playoffs to secure the league title for the third year running. Coach Paul Kommer’s team is in Division I this year and seeded behind James Logan and Berkeley. The Lady Eagles hosted San Ramon Valley in the opening round Tuesday at Dan Della Gym. Logan opens against DVAL runner-up College Park, the last team to make the bracket. In Division II, EBAL champions Carondelet are odds-on to win NCS again. The Cougars took on Con-
cord in the opening round. Northgate has a losing overall record but slipped into NCS to continue an uninterrupted run since 2005. The Broncos traveled to Pinole Valley in their NCS opener. Monte Vista won the EBAL boys championship and earned Division I top seed over runner-up De La Salle. The Spartans entertained Liberty in the NCS opener. Coach Frank Allocco’s Spartans last won the NCS championship in 2012, their ninth since 1999. During that steak only in 2003 did DLS not reach at least the NCS semi-finals, which is where they have been eliminated the past two years.
Boys DVAL champion College Park visited Berkeley in the NCS first round. The Falcons jumped all over Clayton Valley Charter in the DVAL tournament championship game last Saturday. The Falcons held CVCHS to eight points in each of the first two quarters and had a 55-27 lead entering the fourth quarter before winning 67-47 and claiming their fourth successive league title. REVERSAL OF FORTUNE The boys finale was almost a reverse of the girls DVAL championship game where Clayton Valley had a big second quarter to take control over College Park and won 65-46 for the Lady Eagles’
third win this season over the Falcons. Last year’s league MVP Hailey Pascoe led two other senior teammates in double figures for the champs with 20 points. Northgate boys met Casa Grande in Petaluma in a DII opening-round game while Concord, seeded No. 11 one place behind the Broncos, went to San Lorenzo in their opener. The Minutemen were 16-10 heading into NCS after taking second in the section tournament a year ago and then going onto NorCals. NCS playoffs run through next weekend with the NorCal playoffs Mar. 11-21. The CIF State finals are at Cal Berkeley Mar. 27-28.
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February 27, 2015
Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
pectedly right after the Red Devils football season ended. Athletic director Bryan Shaw says the elder Lyle was “at all sporting events yelling words of encouragement and support.” Andrew Lyle was a threeyear varsity football team captain in addition to his four years in wrestling. Away from athletics he has belonged to Jr. ROTC for his four years in high school and part of the Sport Med Program at MDHS. He has already enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and will report to basic training after graduation in June.
Athlete Spotlight Andrew Lyle Class: Senior School: Mt. Diablo High School Sport: Football & Wrestling
When senior Andrew Lyle takes the mat this weekend at the North Coast Section wrestling meet in Union City he won’t be overawed. The Mt. Diablo wrestler will be making his fourth consecutive trip to the NCS championships, earned this year
with a runner-up finish in the Diablo Valley Athletic League meet last week at 154 pounds. Lyle will most likely be going up against higher seeded opponents but it’s nothing compared to his journey the past few months. His father Glenn died unex-
The Concord Pioneer congratulates Andrew and thanks Athlete Spotlight sponsors Dr. Laura Lacey & Dr. Christopher Ruzicka who have been serving the Clayton and Concord area for 25 years at Family Vision Care Optometry. www.laceyandruzicka.com Do you know a young athlete who should be recognized? Perhaps he or she has shown exceptional sportsmanship, remarkable improvement or great heart for the sport. Send your nomination for the Pioneer Athlete Spotlight today to sports@concordpioneer.com.
Kahlil McKenzie, Hailey Pascoe take different routes to college JAY BEDECARRÉ Concord Pioneer
A large crowd of students, including many teammates of the two special guests, were in the gymnasium bleachers earlier this month at Clayton Valley Charter High School for the ceremonial signings of college national letters of intent by basketball player Hailey Pascoe and footballer Kahlil McKenzie. In so many ways the two athletes’ path to this point in their young lives couldn’t have been much more contrasting. McKenzie formalized his commitment earlier that morning to follow in the footsteps of his father and uncle to play for the Tennessee Volunteers football team in the powerful Southeastern Conference. Pascoe reportedly became the first CVCHS girl basketball player to sign a NLI for a Division I school with Lehigh of Pennsylvania, a member of the Patriot League. Five-star defensive tackle McKenzie was the subject of recruiters from coast to coast with seemingly every major program seeking his services for fall Saturdays. Alabama, Florida, Florida State, Notre Dame, Oklahoma, Texas, Ole Miss and virtually every Pac-12 school were wooing the 6foot-3, 354-pound athlete, who did not play a single down of high school football last fall. His dad, Oakland Raiders general manager Reggie McKenzie, had relocated the family from Wisconsin to the East Bay prior to the 2013 fall season. Kahlil McKenzie enrolled at De La Salle and played for the legendary Spartans his junior year when the team lost the State Bowl Open championship game but McKenzie became a prime college prospect.
Prior to his senior season Kahlil McKenzie and younger brother Jalen transferred from DLS to CVCHS. A protracted appeal process through the North Coast Section and California Interscholastic Federation eventually ruled Kahlil McKenzie ineligible for the entire 2014 season since the transfer was deemed for “athletic reasons.” His new team made it to the State Division II title game last December before losing. McKenzie took part in the Army All-American Bowl in late December and was a standout on defense, justifying his ranking as one of the top 10 recruits in the country. Clayton Valley coach Tim Murphy lauded McKenzie at the signing ceremony for his “passion and unselfishness” during the season when he practiced every day without getting in a game. “He turned a negative and made it into a positive. The head coach added that he did get to see McKenzie play when De La Salle beat Clayton Valley Charter in the opening game of the 2013 season when each Concord school was a defending NCS championship team, as they will be again this fall. “Early in the game he [Kahlil] picked up our runningback with one arm and took him down.” The same day McKenzie committed to Tennessee two of his former DLS teammates also participated in NLI across Concord. Simba Short, who missed almost all of the Spartans’ 2014 state championship season due to injury, is headed to Northwestern and his teammate Adam Mayer is going to another Big 10 school, Minnesota. Tennessee won the hated recruiting battle and that should
HAILEY PASCOE (middle of front row) became the first Clayton Valley Charter High School girls basketball player to sign a national letter of intent for a Division I college this month when she firmed up her commitment to Lehigh University of Pennsylvania. The Eagle senior and all-time leading scorer was flanked by her head coach Paul Kommer and assistant Gina Pedroni in front of a large contingent of teammates and other students in a noontime ceremony at the school. Family members on hand were, standing from left, her parents Kris and Dave Pascoe and brother Garrett Pascoe.
Photo by Jay Bedecarre
THE MCKENZIE FAMILY has deep roots in Tennessee and CVCHS senior Kahlil McKenzie (seated right) followed that tradition when the highly-recruited senior signed a national letter of intent this month to follow his dad and uncle onto the Volunteers football team. Oakland Raiders general manager and dad Reggie McKenzie (top left) and his twin brother Raleigh both played for the Vols before embarking on NFL careers. The youngest of four McKenzie children, Jalen (left front) is a sophomore at Clayton Valley.
come as no surprise since Kahlil McKenzie’s dad and twin brother Raleigh both played for the Vols and went on to NFL careers. His grandfather Samuel lives in Tennessee and his cousin Raleigh Jr. (a soccer player!) goes there now. The Volunteers, led by their No. 1 recruit from Clayton Valley, are ranked as having the fourth best incoming freshman class in the nation by some sources. Unlike McKenzie, Pascoe has played a-plenty for Clayton Valley. This is her fourth year on the Eagles varsity basketball team and she was a captain and key part of three consecutive Diablo Valley Athletic League championship teams. Her head coach of the past two seasons, Paul Kommer, recalled seeing Pascoe as a freshman when he was the JV coach. Watching a varsity game Kommer pointed out a mistake the fresh-
man made in a game. A week later the exact same situation arose and Pascoe had already taken his advice and adjusted her game, much to the satisfaction of Kommer. She was co-most valuable player of the Diablo Valley Athletic League as a junior after taking first-team all-DVAL honors as a sophomore and second team all-league her freshman year, playing on a team that included Kommer’s daughter Molly. Ironically, Clayton Valley was upset the night before signing day by rival Northgate, ending a 36game league winning streak for the Lady Eagles. The team rebounded with six straight wins including a sweep of the DVAL tournament that was culminated with their third win over runnerup College Park, giving the Eagles a No. 3 seed for the NCS Division I playoffs.
Photo courtesy De La Salle High School
De La Salle High School principal Brother Robert J. Wickman, FSC (standing) introduced four student athletes to their schoolmates when they formalized their commitments to college programs beginning this fall. The Spartans players are, from left, Joey Jones (soccer, University of Portland), JT Marcinkowski (soccer, Georgetown University), Adam Mayer (football, University of Minnesota) and Simba Short (football, Northwestern University).
Page 17
Bay Area football coaching carousel
TYLER LEHMAN SPORTS TALK The Super Bowl is over and already NFL football is missed by many. In order to fill the void here are some takes on the 49ers and Raiders coaching changes: 49ers – My oh my, what to say about the 49ers coaching situation? The team went from having Jim Harbaugh as head coach, Vic Fangio defensive coordinator and Greg Roman offensive coordinator to head coach Jim Tomsula, DC Eric Mangini and OC Geep Chryst. The move by owner Jed York and general manager Trent Baalke to fire Harbaugh was not a surprising one. Harbaugh never got along with upper management so York fired him. In York’s own words he wants to “win Super Bowls with class.” Well Mr. York, Harbaugh led the 49ers to three NFC championship games and one Super Bowl appearance, but apparently that isn’t good enough. No, for Mr. York it appears Tomsula, not Harbaugh, is the man who will lead the 49ers to that elusive sixth Lombardi Super Bowl Trophy. The entire fiasco with the 49ers coaching situation is both laughable and depressing. The Niners were on the upswing, considered one of the best teams in the league over the past few years and now they are led by Tomsula, Mangini and Chryst. The only way York and Baalke can justify firing Harbaugh is by winning the Super Bowl next year. It’s Super Bowl or bust, that is the precedent that has been set by York. Raiders- The Raiders have been struggling for over a decade and salvation finally appears to be on the horizon with the hiring of head coach Jack Del Rio by team owner Mark Davis and GM Reggie McKenzie. McKenzie was in Concord recently as his oldest
son Kahlil committed to play football next year at Tennessee. Del Rio is a Hayward native and brings a wealth of coaching experience with him, having been head coach of the Jacksonville Jaguars for nine years. Del Rio’s 68-71 record as head coach is not all that impressive, but he seems confident that the past three years he has spent as the Broncos defensive coordinator has improved him as a coach. Del Rio is setting up an experienced staff, one that can help mold the young talent on the Raiders into winners. His first big hire was Mike Tice as offensive line coach followed by Bill Musgrave as offensive coordinator. Musgrave was the quarterbacks coach for the Philadelphia Eagles and should help the growth and development of Derek Carr. Musgrave is also known for his success in the running game, which should be helpful to Latavius Murray. The new headman also brought in Ken Norton Jr., his former teammate on the Cowboys, as his defensive coordinator. Norton won three Super Bowls as a player and one as a coach so he understands what it takes to succeed in the NFL. This will be his first stint as a DC after being a linebackers coach with the Seahawks for the past five years. Overview- The 49ers will ultimately regret getting rid of Harbaugh. Despite his brash personality, York and Baalke had to find some way to work with him. Maybe Tomsula will pan out and become a great head coach, but as it stands now, the 49ers new coaching staff seems like a severe downgrade from what they had just a couple months ago. The Raiders, on the other hand, appear to have upgraded their staff rather nicely. There is a lot of experience on that staff now, which is something that the young players on the Raiders desperately need. Only time will tell if the 49ers and Raiders made the right coaching hires. Tyler Lehman is a junior at San Francisco State University and a 2012 CVHS graduate. He is majoring in print/online journalism and wants to be a sports writer. Email your comments or questions to tyler@concordpioneer.com.
Local athletes committing to college in February Athlete
Sport
College
Berean Christian Chad Whaley . . . . . . .Football . .Greenville College, IL Carondelet Piper Mik . . . . . . . . . . . .Soccer . . . . . . . . . . . .Chicago Clayton Valley Charter Kahlil McKenzie . . . . . . .Football . . . . . . . . . .Tennessee Hailey Pascoe . . . . . . . .Basketball . . . . . . . . . . .Lehigh College Park Preston Kilwien . . . . . . .Soccer . . . . .Florida Gulf Coast De La Salle Joey Jones . . . . . . . . . . .Soccer . . . . . . . . . . . . .Portland JT Marcinkowski . . . . . .Soccer . . . . . . . . . .Georgetown Adam Mayer . . . . . . . . .Football . . . . . . . . . .Minnesota Simba Short . . . . . . . . .Football . . . . . . . .Northwestern Diablo Valley College Xaxier Banks (DLS) . . . . .Football . . . . . . . . . . .Concord Jude Hockel (Northgate) . .Football . . . . . . . . . .Utah State Jerek Rosales (DLS) . . . . .Football . . . . . . . . . . . .Cal Poly Northgate George Burrows . . . . . .Soccer . . . . . . . . .Saint Mary’s Madison Casten . . . . . .Basketball . .Austin College, TX Joanie Kronick . . . . . . . .Swimming . . . . . . . .Occidental Zoe Ramer . . . . . . . . . .Soccer . . . . . . . .Portland State
Page 18
Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
NCS Soccer,from page 16 Piedmont but fell to No. 1 ranked Richmond in the quarterfinals 3-0. Ygnacio Valley won its first game 5-0 over St. Mary’s of Berkeley but was ousted in the next round 2-1 by No. 4 Campolindo in overtime. The fourth DVAL boys team to make the playoffs, Concord, fell 4-2 to Campo in the first round. Clayton Valley Charter girls soccer under new coach Christina Ballard won their last five DVAL games including a critical 1-0 win at Diablo Valley College over College Park to claim the league title. The Falcons had won the previous three league championships after the Eagles captured DVAL crowns in 2010 and 2011.
CVCHS carried that momentum into NCS Division I play with a 2-1 victory over Freedom. Their bubble was burst in the quarterfinals when Liberty, the other Oakley high school, blanked the Eagles 1-0. Carondelet rebounded from two uncharacteristic down years when they failed to make the NCS field, with a strong showing in EBAL and a spot back in the season-ending playoffs. Consistently ranked among the top girls soccer leagues in the country, East Bay Athletic League schools have won 31 of the 32 NCS championships dating back to the first in 1982. The Cougars went into overtime to beat league rival Foothill 2-1 in the NCS opener but then fell by the same
score to Berkeley in the quarterfinals. Berkeley had eliminated College Park 3-0 in the first round. Defending NCS champions Monte Vista are top-ranked in California and undefeated in 22 games heading to the semifinals against Berkeley. Wins in the semis and finals might well land the Mustangs as No. 1 in the country. DVAL teams Ygnacio Valley, Northgate and Concord all lost their DII girls openers. The Warriors fell 4-3 to Las Lomas, the Broncos were shut out by Miramonte 4-0 and the Minutemen were blanked by Campo 5-0. NCS championship matches will all be held this Saturday night. All the No. 1 seeds in the four divisions are still alive for the semi-finals with DLS being the only second seed (to EBAL champion San Ramon Valley) still in contention.
February 27, 2015
De La Salle seeks NCS team wrestling title this weekend JAY BEDECARRÉ Concord Pioneer
De La Salle has been a dominant factor for some time in all North Coast Section winter sports and coach Mark Halvorson’s wrestlers have more than held up their end of the threeheaded Spartan effort along with the basketball and soccer teams. DLS has now won six of seven NCS Dual Team championships and will try to match that record with a team title at the NCS Championships this Friday and Saturday in Union City at James Logan High. Halvorson’s wrestlers went from 2009 to 2013 winning both the dual team and NCS championships before being derailed last year in both events as they fell 34-22 to Logan in the dual finals and then were third behind champion Windsor and Logan in the NCS meet. This year appears to having things get back to “normal” as the Spartans rolled through Castro Valley, East Bay Athletic League rival California and then Liberty of Brentwood in the finals, never allowing any of the three opponents more than 10 points while the Spartans scored over 60 in each dual. This weekend the best of the
best in NCS wrestling descend on the Logan campus Friday and Saturday for the NCS finals. The Spartans are favored to regain the team title but NCS is really a combination of individual stories as athletes in 14 weight classes from 106 pounds to 285. 6 REPEAT DVAL CHAMPS Northgate’s Floyd Armenta (197 pounds), Mustafa Sherdil (115) of Clayton Valley Charter and Danny Croff (134) of College Park each won their third consecutive Diablo Valley Athletic League championship last week as six wrestlers repeated as league champs with the top three in each weight class at the DVAL meet moving on to NCS this weekend. Armenta pinned Mt. Diablo’s Taylor Clark in 2:57 to win the 197 title for the second time after taking the 220-pound crown as a sophomore. Other repeat winners were Nate Prado (108) and Gabe Lomas (140) of College Park and Northgate’s Evan Carter (154). Sherdil had perhaps the toughest go as he faced another two-time champion Kaelin Kelly of College Park at 115. The CVCHS wrestler jumped out to a 4-0 first-round lead and
then outlasted his Falcon foe for a 6-3 decision. Kelly not only had a pair of DVAL championships on his resume but was also sixth at NCS last year as a sophomore. Christian Jimenez won the 138-pound title to join Sherdil as Eagles league champs. Overall, College Park advanced 13 wrestlers to NCS and Northgate had seven qualifiers. DVAL FINALS 108 — Prado (CP) tf Hamilton (NG) 3:45; 115 — Sherdil (CVC) d. Kelley (CP) 6-3; 122 — Black (CP) d. Utne (CVC) 13-3; 128 — Jimenez (CVC) d. Hughes (CP) 5-2; 134 — Croft (CP) d. Yacarini (Ygnacio Valley) inj. def.; 140 — Lomas (CP) d. O’Connor (NG) 7-6; 147 — Herschelman (Berean Christian) d. Elizaga (NG) inj. def.; 154 — Carter (NG) d. Lyle (Mt. Diablo) 8-5; 162 — Morford (NG) d. Lynch (CVC) 1:03; 172 — Ramos (BC) d. Dashner (Concord) 6-2; 184 — Chillerni (BC) p. Garcia (CP) 1:08; 197 — Armenta (NG) d. Clark (MD) 2:57; 222 — Correa (CP) d. Fischer (CVC) 4-3; 287 — Martinez (Con) d. Apostopoulos (CP) 7-5.
Photo courtesy De La Salle High School
THE SPARTANS OF DE LA SALLE WON SIX CONSECUTIVE NORTH COAST SECTION BOYS SOCCER TITLES leading into this year’s season-ending tournament. After losing the East Bay Athletic League title to San Ramon Valley the Concord squad opened Section play with a resounding 7-0 win over Irvington. In that opener Steve Dougherty (7) skies for a defensive header. His DLS teammates, in white from left, are Omar Jiron (on the left post), Tito Gomez, Miko Villarama (4) and Blaz Perko (on the right). Dougherty, Jiron, Villarama and Perko are all club soccer players at Diablo FC.
Sports Shorts SPRINGWOOD SWIM TEAM SIGN-UPS Signups for Springwood Swim Team are Sunday, Mar. 22, from 1-3 p.m. at Sports Basement, 1881 Ygnacio Valley Rd. in Walnut Creek. There are no on-line sign-ups. For more info on Springwood Sprinters email team director Dori Freitas at dorifreitas@att.net.
CONCORD AYSO ACCEPTING SPRING PLAYERS UNTIL MAR. 7 Girls and boys up to 18 years old can still register until Saturday, Mar. 7, for Concord AYSO spring soccer. Log into eayso.org and complete the registration process with payment done online with a credit card. For more information visit concordayso.org or contact Region 305 registrar Jackie Peters at registrar@concordayso.org.
The Pioneer wants to publish your sports news Please let us know about your sports news, special events, fund raisers, tryouts, signups and accomplishments. Youth leagues, clubs, schools and adult programs are all welcome to send us a rundown on what you’re doing. Include all the necessary details (too much information is better than too little) and your contact information. It’s simple. Send an email to sports@concordpioneer.com.
YGNACIO WOOD SWIMMING SIGNUPS MAR. 15 Ygnacio Valley Swim Team registration is at Sports Basement (Ygnacio Valley Rd. in Walnut Creek) on Sunday, Mar. 15, from 1-4 p.m. Online registration and details about YWST team, club and activities is at ywst.org. The Seahorses parent orientation is on April 30 from 10 a.m.-noon.
CVCHS BASEBALL HOSTS 3RD HOT STOVE DINNER THIS FRIDAY Clayton Valley Charter High School baseball coach Casey Coakley is hosting the third annual Hot Stove Dinner this Friday, Feb. 27. The evening’s festivities will whet the appetite of baseball fans, Clayton Valley alumni and current CVCHS families in the cold winter months before spring training starts again. Speakers, door prizes, raffles and dinner all benefit CVCHS Baseball and its scholarship fund. The event is from 6-9:30 p.m. at Shadelands Civic Arts Center, 111 N. Wiget Ln. at Ygnacio Valley Rd. in Walnut Creek. For more information and to buy tickets at $40 each email coach Coakley at uglyeaglebaseball@gmail.com.
ST. AGNES CYO TRACK & FIELD IS TAKING SIGNUPS St. Agnes CYO track & field team is still accepting signups for the spring season, which runs through May and is open to boys and girls from grades two thru eight in the Concord area. For more information and to register online go to stagnescyo.com or contact Rex Speer at stagnestrack@comcast.net.
21ST CVCHS ATHLETIC BOOSTERS CRAB FEED & AUCTION MAR. 14 Clayton Valley Charter High School Athletic Boosters will hold their 20th annual Crab Feed and Auction on Saturday, Mar. 14, at Centre Concord. Tickets are sold on a first come, first served basis. Must be 21 or older to attend. For more info email cvabcrabfeed@gmail.com or go to cvhsboosters.org to order tickets online for a night of food, drink, dancing, auctions and raffle prizes. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. with dinner served at 7.
SARAH NELSON NAMED PACWEST DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK FOR 4TH TIME THIS SEASON Dominican University of California senior Sarah Nelson has been recently named PacWest women’s basketball defensive player of the week for the third and fourth times this season. Nelson continues to dominate the paint for her fourth weekly defensive honor, averaging 14.0 points, 14.5 rebounds and 9.0 blocks per game. She blocked eight shots against Dixie State and then logged her second triple-double of the year with 20 points, 19 rebounds and 10 blocks against Fresno Pacific, albeit in a losing effort. The 10 blocks matched a program record in the Division II era set by Nelson in her previous triple-double in December at Holy Names. Nelson leads the nation in blocks (5.12 bpg) as the only player with more than five per game. The Clayton Valley High grad is also the only player with multiple triple-doubles this season.
SIGN-UPS FOR ST. FRANCIS CYO TRACK & FIELD ONLINE Sign-ups for St. Francis CYO Track & Field can be completed online through Sportability. Practices are at Ygnacio Valley High School track each Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 5:30 - 6:30 p.m. Contact coach George Francis at coachfrancisyvhs@hotmail.com for details. Visit CYO website at sfaconcord.org/student-life/athletics.
WALNUT COUNTRY PREPS FOR SPRING CLINIC STARTING MONDAY Walnut Country head coach Adrian Lohse is offering a fiveweek spring stroke clinic beginning this Monday, Mar. 2. This program is intended to give swimmers of all abilities ages 5-18 the chance to improve their technique through stroke progressions that do not require extensive conditioning. Additionally, the spring clinic has a session intended to teach swimming basics to first time swimmers five and younger who are not ready for full laps. The clinics are open to swimmers from all teams. More information is available at walnutcountryeaglerays.com. WCST registration for 2015 opens this Sunday, Mar. 1. Questions can be directed to Julie Sandy at julsands@gmail.com.
YGNACIO VALLEY HIGH TRACK & FIELD
HOSTING ALL-COMERS MEET MAR. 7
Ygnacio Valley High is hosting an all-comers track and field meet on Saturday, Mar. 7, from 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. on the allweather track at the school. There will be eight individual events and two relays for boys and girls from preschool through high school and senior classifications. YVHS is using the meet as a team fund raiser for a finish line timing system. Contact coach George Francis at coachfrancisyvhs@hotmail.com for details.
DANA HILLS SWIM TEAM
REGISTRATION NIGHT
FRIDAY
Dana Hills Swim Team kicks off the 2015 summer swim season with a Registration Night this Friday, Feb. 27, from 6-9 p.m. at Dana Hills Cabana Club on Mountaire Parkway. Registration and swim season volunteer job preferences will be taken. The DHST coaching staff will meet attendees and discuss the Otter program. New members will also be given the option to sign up for the team on a free, one-week “trial” basis. Online registration opens Saturday, Feb. 28. For additional info visit danahillsotters.com.
FOREST PARK FLYERS
PREPPING FOR
2015
SWIM SEASON
The Forest Park Swim Team went undefeated last season in A & B division dual meets for veteran head coach Jeff Mellinger. The team is inviting swimmers 4-18 years to spend their summer learning stroke technique, sportsmanship, enjoying fun activities and
making new friends. Signups are Thursday Mar. 12, 6-8 p.m. and Saturday, Mar. 21, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at Forest Park Pool, 1766 Mendocino Dr. in Concord. Contact Eve Crow for more info at membership@forestparkswimteam.com or visit forestparkswimteam.com.
OAKHURST ORCAS SET MEET AND GREET DATES Oakhurst Orcas are accepting mail or drop off registrations for the summer rec swim team season at Oakhurst Country Club. Meet and greet registration is on Friday, Mar. 20, and Thursday, April 23, from 6:30-8 p.m. Early registration discounts are available until mid-March. Visit oakhurstorcas.com for more information or e-mail head coach Jasmine Millan at swimcoach@oakhurstcc.com.
DIABLO FC U15-U18 OPEN TRAINING SESSIONS START SATURDAY Diablo FC will host open training sessions for boys and girls U15-U18 players for 2015-16 season beginning this Saturday, Feb. 28. The club’s U15-U18 premier teams all compete in the highest level of Nor Cal Premier in the National Premier League. Open training sessions are an opportunity for players to train with teams and be evaluated for initial player placement. For more information and schedule visit diablofc.org.
CONTINENTAL LITTLE LEAGUE LATE SIGNUPS TAKEN ONLINE
Continental Little League, which encompasses parts of Concord and Walnut Creek, is open for online late registration for the 2015 season. CLL is for boys and girls from four to 17 and starts with a 4-5 peanuts program. Visit continentalbaseball.com for infomation.
CONCORD ADULT SOFTBALL, KICKBALL AND PICKLEBALL TEAM REGISTRATION OPEN
Adults looking for exercise in a fun environment should consider signing up for one of Concord’s adult sports leagues – softball, coed kickball or pickleball. The city offers one of the largest adult softball leagues in the Bay Area for all skill levels. Registration packets are available for the fourgame spring tune-up league and 12-game summer season. The summer season starts April 12 and runs through July. New this year is a Tuesday night Wooden Bat League. This is a great opportunity for current teams to find a different level of challenge or get together with new players and test strength and skill with a new team. Coed kickball league offers a great social or team building experience. Tuesday night games offer a fun environment with a sprinkling of friendly competition and the opportunity to relive one of the best ways to spend school recess. The eight-game summer league starts at the end of March. One of the nation’s fastest growing sports is pickleball. The game combines elements of tennis, badminton and ping pong. Played on a badminton-sized court with a lower net, large wooden or composite paddles are used with a plastic whiffle ball. The sport is easy to learn and suited for all athletic abilities. Morning and evening pickleball classes begin Mar. 17. For more information on all Concord Rec adult sports programs, contact Kathryn Monroy at (925) 671-3074. For all Concord Parks & Recreation classes now taking registration, visit concordreg.org.
February 27, 2015
Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
Page 19
Get into the spear-it of asparagus
Asparagus season is almost here. Maybe you haven’t missed it much because we get a lot of imported asparagus in California, but the Central Valley farmers are gearing up for what portends to be a great year — so
keep an eye out for the first-of-the-season tender spears. Asparagus is part of the lily family; food historians find the first evidence of cultivation in Egypt and Greece around 2000 years ago. Revered for its nutrition (significant amounts of B vitamins, iron and calcium) and medicinal qualities (diuretic), asparagus also gained the questionable reputation for being an aphrodisiac, no doubt due to its shape. Most of the asparagus we see is green, some with thin stalks and others with thicker stalks. In Europe, however, white asparagus is preferred and this is accomplished by covering the growing stalks to prohibit photosynthesis or greening. There are also purple variants that tend to be a little sweeter but are sensitive to too much heat (they will revert to a green-
ish color if overcooked). The U.S. (mainly California) is the fifth-largest producer of asparagus (behind China, Peru, Germany and Mexico). An annual event that’s much enjoyed here in Northern California is the San Joaquin Asparagus Festival that will be held this year on April 17 through 19 at the County Fairgrounds in Stockton. Asparagus is usually served as an appetizer or a side dish, but it can be found as a main ingredient in Asian stir-fries. It’s often paired with hollandaise sauce in Europe. When lightly steamed (or even microwaved for 30-60 seconds), its tendercrisp texture is great in salads. Try it oven-roasted with a simple drizzle of olive oil, salt and pepper. Here’s a lovely springtime salad:
ASPARAGUS AND WHITE BEAN SALAD (Serves 4) 1 ½ lbs. asparagus, cut into 1” pieces 1 can (14 oz.) cannellini beans, rinsed and drained ½ cup (about 2 oz.) crumbled feta 1 medium shallot, peeled and minced 1 Tbsp. chopped fresh mint ½ cup chopped jicama or radish Steam the asparagus until crisp-tender, then drain and immerse in an ice bath to stop the cooking and refresh its color. Combine the remaining ingredients in a bowl and gently toss to combine with a lemony dressing (suggested recipe below).
1 tsp. grated lemon zest 1 tsp. Dijon mustard 1 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil Salt and pepper to taste Whisk together the juice, zest and mustard, then drizzle in the oil while whisking to help create a stable emulsion. Season with salt and pepper to taste. ASPARAGUS SOUP This springtime soup is super easy to make and tasty whether served hot or cold. Sauté one chopped onion and a chopped celery rib in a little butter or oil until tender; add 3 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, a diced peeled russet potato, a pinch of dried thyme and 1 lb. of chopped asparagus (reserve the tips). Simmer until veggies are tender, then purée in a
LINDA WYNER
FOOD
FOR
THOUGHT
blender (and strain the soup if you’d like). Return the soup to the stove to reheat with one cup of cream (half-and-half or evaporated milk are okay, too) and the asparagus tips. Season to taste with salt and white pepper. Linda Wyner owns Pans on Fire, a gourmet cookware store and cooking school in Pleasanton. Send suggestions or questions to lwyner@pansonfire.com
LEMON VINAIGRETTE 1 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice
Small tasty Weed it and reap; water it and eat kumquats add spark to salads
NICOLE HACKETT
GARDEN GIRL We’ve witnessed a changing mindset these past few years in gardening, thanks in part to the drought. What were random statements at first have evolved to show a shift in attitude about growing. Folks have been expressing the opinion that if they are going to water, they want to be able to eat what they grow. For some their landscapes are changing. Portions or entire backyard lawn areas are being removed and replaced with raised beds for vegetables. Ornamental shrubs that were once planted across fence lines are being replanted with rows of blueberries. Where roses formerly stood, fruit trees are now installed. Some folks are looking at their yards from every angle, trying to make what they grow purposeful. The challenge is how to get everything you want to grow in to your space. Smart Pot big gag beds, planters and pockets have been welcomed with open arms by growers. The entire Smart Pot line has offered growers an easy way get their garden growing. The material used in the con-
struction of the Smart Pot allows plants to enjoy excellent drainage, encourage air-pruning (so plants don’t become root bound), and lets the heat escape during hot weather. Earth Boxes have been available for almost a decade now and they haven’t lost their footing in popularity. The Earth Box holds its own water in a reservoir at the bottom of each planter which becomes available when needed by your installations. Earth Box planting is ideal considering our water issues, and plants love it. The Earth Box we have at the nursery has been in business for almost six years. It has hosted spring, summer and winter veggies. Tomatoes, squash, beans, lettuce, several herbs and even a melon has matured in the Earth Box. This season, Ultra Dwarf fruit trees are finally becoming mainstream. Ultra Dwarf fruit trees produce regular sized fruit, yet they mature only anywhere from three- to five-feet tall and wide depending on the selection. Considering the mature
URBAN PEACH TREE
DEBRA MORRIS Pacific Coast Farmers Market
growth, you can now maximize your fruit tree area, growing more selections without the fear of blocking much needed sunlight. Almost all fruit trees varieties can be found as Ultra Dwarf selections. You can grow peach, cherry, apple, apricot, pear or nectarine. Look for quality Ultra Dwarf fruit trees. They should have sturdy branching and robust trunks. Take care when planting any type of fruit tree. Amend the soil well, using a premium soil conditioner. Use a starter fertilizer, or bone meal in the hole to stimulate root growth. Loosen soil around root ball of your desired fruit tree. A happy fruit tree is one that is planted with its roots showing no memory of ever being in a nursery pot. Blueberry plants have become widely popular, and have proven themselves to thrive in our local climate. Blueberry plants can grow rather
large. Most selections can reach four- to five-feet tall and wide. They prefer full morning into the afternoon sun, not full hot sun. Each spring, amend the soil around your blueberries with dolomite lime to sweeten the soil. Plant several different varieties of blueberry. They need friends to cross-pollinate. Now is the time to start your seeds for summer veggies. Start seeds indoors, or if you have one of those handy pop-up greenhouses, that would be perfect for seed starting outside. When planting seeds, be aware of the recommended planting depth listed on the seed package. A seed placed too deep won’t get the light it needs to germinate.
Tasting sweet and juicy on the inside and bitter on the outside, the kumquat is a small oval fruit from the citrus family. They’re here through April and offer a bright flavor to spring dishes. Buy kumquats with bright, smooth skins that feel a bit heavy for their small size. Avoid kumquats with bruises, cuts or blemishes of any kind – the edible skin is more delicate and tender than that of other citrus fruits, and also more susceptible to damage. Eat or use kumquats as soon after purchasing as you can – unlike other citrus fruits, kumquats don’t have a long shelf life. If you do need to store them for a few days, keep kumquats in a paper bag or loosely wrapped in plastic in
the fridge. Kumquats make a great snack or light dessert eaten out of hand, or added whole or halved to fruits salads. They are also a great addition to crunchy winter salads like Endive Kumquat Salad. They can also be canned and preserved and delicious over ice cream or plain yogurt. There are various crossed varieties now appearing at your local market. Mandarinquats are obviously a cross between an Mandarin orange and a kumquat. There are also tangy limequats and other small, brightly flavored crosses. Taking into consideration their inherent flavor differences, these little gems make great additions to your salads and desserts, just as kumquats can. They also are good when eaten right out of the bag.
Nicole is the Garden Girl at R&M Pool, Patio, Gifts and Garden. Contact her with questions or comments at Gardengirl@claytonpioneer.com
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STAGE STRUCK Pittsburg Community Theatre (PCT) will soon be singing in the woods and beyond as it presents the popular musical “Into the Woods,” Stephen Sondheim’s take on storybook characters gone amuck. Sondheim’s marvelous music combines characters from “Little Red Riding Hood,” “Jack and the Beanstalk” and many more into an exciting tale of what really happens after “happily ever after.” PCT promises to stay true to Sondheim’s dark humor and faithful to his original Broadway score, including several musical numbers deleted from the recent movie version featuring Meryl Streep and Johnny Depp. “Into the Woods” runs Feb. 27 and 28, March 1, and March 6 through 8 at the beautiful California Theatre, 351 Railroad Ave., in Pittsburg. Call 925-427-1611 for tickets. PCT holds auditions for Neil Simon’s comedy classic “Barefoot in the Park” from 7 to 9 p.m. on March 2 and 3, with callbacks on March 4 at Hillview Jr. High School, 333 Yosemite, in Pittsburg. Also made into a movie with the likes of Jane Fonda and Robert Redford in the lead roles, the show runs April 23 through 26. For more information, go to www.pittsburgcommunitytheatre.org and click on “auditions.” Brentwood Theater Company presents “Forbidden Broadway” in two locations. The hit musical revue features a loving (and sometimes satirical) tribute to theater’s greatest stars. Hear all your favorite Broadway musicals at your choice of locations. At 8 p.m. on Feb. 28 and at 2 p.m. on March 1, the show takes place at Trilogy at the Vineyards, Mt. Diablo Event Center, 1700 Trilogy Parkway, in Brentwood. It then moves to Walnut Creek’s Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., for performances at 8:15 p.m. March 6 and 7 and at 2:15 p.m. on March 8 For more information, call 925-513-3863. Magic is in the air as the Onstage Theatre Company presents illusionist Timothy
Vicki Victoria
Cinderella with her step family and a cast of mixed up fairy-tale characters head ‘Into the Woods’ at Pittsburg Community Theatre, Feb. 27-Mar 8.
James at 2 p.m. on Feb. 28 at the Martinez Campbell Theater, 636 Ward Street. James has won numerous awards for his sleight of hand and variety entertainment around the country. For tickets to this family-friendly show, call 925-350-9770. The Onstage Theatre will certainly be busy on Feb. 28. Following the magic show, it opens Norm Foster’s comedy “The Foursome.” This story about four old school chums catching up over a round of golf runs Feb. 28 through March 14 in Martinez. The four (played by Eddie Peabody, Joseph Hirsch, James Frankle and Jack Karasch) have come home for a college reunion and share their successes and failures in life while trying to hit a little white ball into a hole. Helen Means directs. For reservations, call 925-518-3277. An improvised high-wire act takes over the Lesher Center when Improv Playhouse of San Francisco comes to Walnut Creek. Known for its collective storytelling genius, the group relies on suggestions from the audience to create a unique show each night. It runs March 19 through April 5 at Walnut Creek’s Lesher Center for the Arts. Call 925-943SHOW or go to www.lesherartscenter.org. The Lesher Center’s resident theater company, Center Rep, has started the “First Look” program, which thanks U.S. Military personnel and U.S. Veterans with $15 tickets to any preview performance. College students, faculty, and staff with a school ID can also purchase the $15 tickets. Limit of two tickets
per person. Go to www.centerrep.org to see upcoming shows. Get ready to strike up the band and put on your marching shoes as Contra Costa Musical Theatre presents the perennial favorite “The Music Man.” Posing as a children’s band leader and music teacher, con-man Harold Hill meets his match when he falls for Marian, the prim librarian and piano teacher who sees through his snappy
banter. This “toe-tapper” runs March 20 through April 19 at Walnut Creek’s Lesher Center for the Arts. Call 925-943SHOW or go to www.lesherartscenter.org. Sally Hogarty is well known around the Bay Area as a newspaper columnist, theatre critic and working actress. She is also the editor of the Orinda News. Send comments to sallyhogarty@aol.com.
Four talented actors from the Improv Playhouse of San Francisco will be looking to the audience to create a brand new show each night. At the Lesher Center March 19-April 5.
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February 27, 2015
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Wacky family main ingredient for comedy GARY CARR Special to the Pioneer
What happens when a high school physics teacher abandons the classroom for comedy? You get Steve Solomon, one of the most prolific joke-writers ever to come out of Brooklyn. Or anywhere else, for that matter. Solomon’s long-running international hit show, “My Mother’s Italian, My Father’s Jewish & I’m in Therapy,” comes to the Del Valle Theater in Walnut Creek for 20 performances, March 12 through 29. This hysterically funny physics teacher found his first audience in his students. He used humor, dialects and sound effects to make his points about Newton’s Laws. Then he shifted to Uncle Morty’s Laws. He started by sending his jokes to
magazines, then to other comedians, who ate them up and begged for more. One email full of jokes became 10, then 100, and the process continued for decades. Along the way, Solomon created three shows in which he is the central character, kvetching about his life in a multi-ethnic, totally dysfunctional family. Yes, his mother IS Italian, his Father IS Jewish, and Solomon DID spend years in therapy. And his show lets it all out onstage, with send-ups of dozens of his family members. Solomon’s shows (there are two others) are so popular they are more than one comic actor can handle. So, the Walnut Creek show will be performed by Showtime Comedy Club’s Ron Tobin, himself an awardwinning actor and comedian.
Comedian Steve Solomon will bring his one-man show, ‘My Mother is Italian, My Father is Jewish and I’m in Therapy’ to the Del Valle Theatre March 12-10.
Like Solomon, he has the Borscht Belt genes that let him connect with every audience, no matter their ethnic background. Described as “One part lasagna, one part kreplach, and two parts Prozac,” the show guarantees you don’t have to be Jewish or Italian to love it. “My Mother’s Italian, My Father’s Jewish & I’m in Therapy” plays March 12 through 29 at the Del Valle Theater, 1963 Tice Valley Rd. in Walnut Creek. For times, tickets and other information, visit www.PlayhouseInfo.com or call 925943-SHOW (7469).
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‘Easter Parade’ marches into Antioch Don your Easter bonnet, with all the frills upon it, and head east to the El Campanil Theatre in Antioch to celebrate the Easter holiday season with an Irving Berlin favorite. “Easter Parade in Concert,” presented in Cabaret style, is a fresh and fun revue revisiting some of Berlin’s favorite songs from his classic film, “Easter Parade.” These tunes have endured through generations and include “Steppin’ Out With My Baby,” “Shakin’ The Blues Away,” “A Couple of Swells” and, of course, the classic “Easter Parade.” The show, like the film itself, is suitable for audiences of all ages. The cast features Bay Area theatre veterans Tielle Baker, Robert Dornaus, Shelby Deans-Flegel and Tom Deans-Flegel. The “Easter Parade in Concert” performance is at 3 p.m. on Sunday, March 29 at the El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. For tickets, call the Box Office at 925-757-9500, or visit www.elcampaniltheatre.com.
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Clayton Theatre Company grows with spring show, summer classes The Clayton Theatre Company’s spring production is “Arsenic and Old Lace,” the classic madcap comedy about two lovable old ladies who poison lonely old men with elderberry wine spiked with arsenic, and then bury them in their basement. The preview, April 15, is a fundraiser for Relay for Life. Half the ticket sales will be donated to the cause. The play then continues April 16 through 19 and April 22 through 25. Purchase tickets now at www.brownpapertickets.com. More information about the play, tickets and volunteering is available at at claytontheatrecompany.org. Right around the corner is
The Clayton Theatre Company Summer Stage for children ages six through 16, which runs from June 15 through 19, June 22 through 26 and June 29 through July 1. The Summer Stage classes are held at Endeavor Hall, 6008 Center St., in Clayton. This is a program for children who love theater and want to perform and learn about musical theater principles, and for those who want to learn to speak in front of groups or get over their shyness. Students will learn scenes from “Aladdin Jr.,” “Matilda” and “Newsies.” Student performances are July 2 at 1 and 3 p.m. Details are on the website at www.claytontheatrecompany.org.
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February 27, 2015
Tasty tiramisu is trendy these days RICHARD EBER & WHITNEY FLORES TASTE AND TELL Tiramisu seems to be the “in thing” these days. Even Starbucks has introduced a new latte drink under this name. For our family, tiramisu also holds traditional significance. Not because we’re Italian, but rather Abigail, one of Whitney’s daughters (Richard’s granddaughter), fell in love with her mother’s recipe as a toddler and has requested it
be made for her birthday every year since. On the local culinary scene, there are several places that serve this traditional Northern Italian delicacy which includes ingredients such as mascarpone cheese, eggs, coffee and whipping cream. Much like cheesecake and English Trifle, there is not one definitive recipe for Tiramisu, as each chef puts in their own personal touch when making this gourmet treat. An excellent example can be found at Luna Restaurante at 2118 Willow Pass (just off Grant Street in Concord). Owner-Chef Abdel Redouane takes great pride in his tiramisu, which he makes from scratch. Their filling, which goes
between two layers of rum and espresso soaked ladyfingers, starts with a base of zabaione (egg yolks, sugar and vanilla) whisked while cooking on a double boiler. As the zabaione cools, soft mascarpone cheese is added. Freshly made whipped cream is then folded in. Chef Abdel layers the soaked ladyfingers with his filling and refrigerates it overnight. He then dusts the top with chocolate powder and exquisitely decorates the plate with cream, mint and a blackberry to finish his desert masterpiece. Across town at the upscale 54 Mint Restaurant at Treat Blvd. and Oak Grove, Chef and co-owner Daniele Carsano has a different vision of how
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this classic Italian dish is made. He starts out with the freshest eggs which are necessary for his tiramisu because they are not cooked. After separating the eggs, he whisks the yolks, sugar and vanilla, later adding a dash of sweat Marsala wine. Mascarpone cheese is then added in while the mixture being is constantly stirred. Lastly, whipped egg whites are folded in to finish the major component of 54 Mint’s tiramisu. Homemade ladyfingers are dipped (but not soaked) in espresso coffee and put aside. Carsano said it is important that the cake does not get too much liquid because this can result in a soggy product which is to be avoided. Much like what is done with Luna’s tiramisu, the assembled final product is refrigerated overnight to integrate the flavors and firm up the desert. The following day 54 Mint’s dish is dusted with chocolate powder and served to guests The major difference between how these two restaurants make their homemade tiramisu is that Luna uses whipped cream and cooks theirs, while 54 Mint takes a different approach that they say is more traditional. Trying to determine which version tastes better is a difficult task because they both taste so good. Naturally, Luna’s is richer while 54 Mint’s has a lighter feel and is very subtle with the espresso flavors standing out. To make tiramisu at home, it’s important that two rules are followed: be patient while making the recipe, and make sure that every ingredient is fresh and high quality. Even if one disdains coffee, dark roast espresso should be used to produce the best flavor. For this recipe, we
suggest taking no shortcuts or substitutions, as the dessert depends on all of the components working harmoniously together. ABIGAIL’S BIRTHDAY TIRAMISU Serves 12 Ingredients: 6 egg yolks ¾ cup white sugar 2/3 cup milk 1.5 cup whipping cream 1 tsp. vanilla extract 1 lb. mascarpone cheese ½ cup espresso (room temp.) 4 Tbsp. rum 2 packages ladyfinger cookies 1 Tbsp. unsweetened cocoa powder Cinnamon for dusting Whisk together egg yolks, sugar, and milk until well blended in a medium saucepan. Cook slowly over medium heat, whisking constantly until mixture boils. Still whisking, allow mixture to boil for 1 minute, then remove from heat. Cover and chill in refrigerator for one hour. In another bowl, beat whip-
ping cream and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Set aside. Once yolk mixture is cooled, whisk in mascarpone until smooth. Combine espresso and rum in a small bowl; lightly dip bottom of ladyfingers into liquid (do not soak). Begin to layer tiramisu in a 7x11 dish. First, arrange half of the dipped ladyfingers in a layer. Then, half of the mascarpone mixture on top of the ladyfingers. Then spread half of the whipped cream on top of the mascarpone mixture. Repeat once more with remaining ingredients, ending with whipped cream. Sprinkle top of tiramisu with unsweetened cocoa powder. Then lightly dust the tiramisu with cinnamon. Cover and refrigerate overnight, and then enjoy with friends and family. Rich Eber is a local columnist for the blog Halfway to Concord and a selfdescribed “foodie.” He teams up with daughter, Whitney, a Concord native, student, and avid cook and taster. Email comments to editor@concordpioneer.com
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