MAY 26 Concord Pioneer 2017 by Pioneer Publishers

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Rockin’ opening for Music and Market

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May 26, 2017

925.672.0500

LAurA HOFFMEISTEr

MAYOR

Proposed federal budget cuts will affect city’s seniors

Among the many things I treasure about public service is my role as a board member for the John Muir/Mt. Diablo Community Health Fund (CHF). I have seen how many in our area have benefited from CHF funding and expertise. Over two decades, CHF – a community benefit arm of John Muir Health – has distributed more than $26 million to

See Mayor, page 6

Tamara Steiner/Concord Pioneer

AN UNSEASONABLY COLD AND CLOUDY MAY EVENING didn’t discourage several hundred music fans from the first of the city’s 29th Annual Music and Market summer concert series. The season kicked off on May 11 with a celebratory memorial to Steve Sage, legendary rock and roll musician and DVC teacher who died Jan. 19 at 61. The season continues through Sept. 14 when Annie Sampson, Concord’s Blues and Soul Diva brings the season to a close. The Thursday Farmers Market is open from 4-8 p.m. Concerts begin at 6:30. On Tuesdays, the Farmers Market is open from 2-4 p.m. and the Tuesday Night Blues Series begins July 11 at 6:30 with Mark Hummel and the Blues Survivors. For the full summer music schedule, go to www.cityofconcord.org.

May Day rally supports sanctuary city status JOHN T. MILLER Correspondent

Hundreds of Concord residents marched from Meadow Homes Park to Todos Santos Plaza as part of a May Day rally calling for sanctuary city status, rent stabilization and fair wages for the city’s immigrant population. The peaceful demonstration, called Concord’s first May Day observance, included speakers at both the park and plaza from advocacy groups emphasizing immigrants’ concerns. The events kicked off with master of ceremony Francisco Herrera playing music and addressing the crowd from a flatbed truck. The Rev. Kurt Kuhwald of the Faith Alliance for a Moral Economy (FAME) gave the blessing, saying: “We are strong when we’re together in love and justice.” Representing Raise the Roof Coalition, Rhea Elina

Tamara Steiner/Concord Pioneer

PEACEFUL PROTESTORS OPPOSED to current ICE enforcement policy participate in a May Day rally and march to Todos Santos Plaza.

Laughlin gave an impassioned speech in both English and Spanish. She told of the fear many parents in the community have of being separated from their children. “We contribute to this community and make this city better because we are here,”

she said. “We will fight to keep our families together.” Margaret Hanlon Gradie spoke on behalf of local labor groups, noting that the immigrant population contributed about $2.1 billion to the nation’s economy. The crowd followed the

flatbed truck out Detroit Avenue and down Willow Pass Road to Todos Santos Plaza. With Concord police assisting with traffic control and more than 30 volunteer marshals directing walkers, the 1.3-mile march came off safely and successfully.

KARA NAVOLIO Correspondent

namics and safety, 40-100 kids will take flight over the course of three hours. Stephanie Anderson, a 10year-old from Concord, began flying when she was 8. Although she has never flown on a commercial flight, Stephanie has been soaring over the Bay area at least six times. “I love birds. I was curious about flying because of birds. They can fly anytime they want,” she says. “I dream about flying. When we saw the advertisement for this program, I knew I wanted to fly. It’s so cool.” She couldn’t contain her excitement as she climbed into

At Todos Santos, Father Richard Mangini of St. Bonaventure Church addressed the crowd. He spoke of the original May Day demands of an eighthour day and a five-day workweek and called on leaders to recognize that different times call for different struggles. “We don’t need the violence of the past; we need to talk and come together at the table – the rich and the poor for the benefit of both.” Central Labor Council president Steve Older recalled the role of immigrants throughout our nation’s history. He then led the audience in a rendition of Pete Seeger’s “This Land is Your Land.” Debra Ballinger-Bernstein from Raise the Roof and Monument Impact called on the city of Concord to adopt a sanctuary city policy and prevent departments from collaborating with U.S. Immigrations

See Rally, page 4

Aspiring young pilots reach for their dreams

Kara Navolio

SAM DESMOND, 12 , OF CONCORD is one of the eager young pilots flying with the Young Eagles program at Buchanan Field. His goal is to someday become an EMT rescue helicopter pilot.

Kids who dream of flying can try it, for free, at Concord’s Buchanan Field Airport. The Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) sponsors the Young Eagles program for kids 8-17 on the third Saturday of June, August and September. Member pilots volunteer their time and their small aircrafts for 20-45 minute flights around the Bay Area with aspiring pilots. Children start lining up at 6 a.m. for the first flights at 9. After working with the flight simulation software, a briefing and some lessons on aerody-

the front seat next to the pilot. “I do get a little nervous, but you have to live your life,” says her dad, Sean Anderson. “I have faith in the program. It’s an outstanding opportunity.” Jack Davi launched the program in Concord in 2010. He is retired now but still attends the Saturday morning programs to offer his support and see the joy it brings to the kids. Two million children have flown in the Young Eagles program nationally since its inception in 1992. Stephen Tucker now runs the Concord Young Eagles. As a 7-year-old, he fell in love with

See Pilots, page 5

Council nixes using Measure Q funds to close budget gap PEGGY SPEAR Concord Pioneer

The Concord City Council quickly killed a plan to spend Measure Q money to help fund unfunded liabilities in the city’s two-year budget. It was a good news/not-sogood-news scenario when finance director Karan Reid released the preliminary 2017’18, 2018-’19 budget earlier this month. The good news is that the budget is balanced. But the $97.4 million year one budget and the $102.5 million year two budget both rely on $7.5 million in Measure Q funds to help stabilize the spending for unfunded liabilities. Measure Q is the half-cent sales tax measure that was extended in 2014 and will sunset in 2025. “I am uncomfortable using Measure Q dollars in that way because when we went to the public for support of Measure Q, we told them it would be used specifically for city services – like the senior center and road repairs,” said Vice Mayor Edi Birsan. Many of his council colleagues agreed. “I also can’t support Measure Q being used

See Budget, page 4

Inside

Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . .17

Community . . . . . . . . . . .2

From the desk of . . . . . .7 Schools . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

Performing Arts . . . . . .16

COMMUNITY

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Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com

In Brief... Memorial Day

The 26th Annual Memorial Day Observance is May 29 at 10 a.m. at the Veterans Memorial Flagpole Monument at Oak and Main Streets in Clayton. The event is a special remembrance of the heroic members of armed forces from Contra Costa County who gave their lives on the battlefields of The Global War on Terrorism since 9/11. Event features Ladies First from Concord High School and the Diablo View Middle School Band. A huey helicopter is scheduled to make an overflight and another will be on display. Sponsored by VFW Post 1525. For more information, go to vfwpost1525.org.

Flag Day

The Concord Elks Lodge 1994 is hosting a Flag Day ceremony at 7 p.m. on Wed., June 14 at 3565 Clayton road, Concord. Boy Scout Troop 1994 will help present the proud history of the flag. The event is open to the general public and everyone is welcome to attend. Lodge opens at 6 p.m. (925) 685-1994.

Dom Mazza makes national news twice in April JAY BEDECARRÉ Concord Pioneer

After gaining national headlines while a junior at Clayton Valley High School, Domenic Mazza of Concord is back in the national spotlight this spring for his performances in the San Francisco Giants organization. First, Mazza was the punchline in a story about former NFL quarterback Tim Tebow hitting his first homerun as a pro baseball player. The HR came off a pitch from Mazza in the first game of the season for Mazza’s Augusta GreenJackets minor league team. Then in late April, Mazza became the first pitcher in the history of the Class A South Athletic League to throw a perfect game as he retired 27 consecutive Lexington Legends batters. Mazza needed just 85 pitches to complete his nine innings,

which included a bench-clearing brawl in the eighth inning when three players were ejected. Overall, he struck out nine in the 9-0 victory and had his right fielder, Sandro Fabian, to thank for excellent plays on fly balls in the eighth and ninth innings that threatened to break up the nono. To give some perspective to Mazza’s achievement: In the 140 years of Major League Baseball, there have been more than 210,000 games played and just 23 perfect games. That’s one perfecto for every 9,100 games. Mazza’s gem is the 181st perfect game in the minor leagues since 1887, an average of 1½ per year across all the minor leagues. His parents subscribe to the MiLB app so they can watch their son’s games at home in Concord. Steve and Lorrie Mazza hook up their iPad to the family TV. “It’s unbelievable,”

the proud dad said after the perfect game. The 22-year-old Mazza, who split time on CVHS golf and baseball teams, has a powerful golf swing that has delivered drives of up to 436 yards in competition. On the mound, the lefthander uses a fastball that tops out at 88 mph mixed with a slider, changeup and curveball to get batters out. Giants general manager Bobby Evans called Mazza to congratulate him. When Mazza was interviewed in the days following the perfect game on the Giants flagship station, KNBR, he told morning show host Brian Murphy that he was on a field trip with his Clayton Valley Public Service Academy in the AT&T Park bleachers in June 2012 when Matt Cain threw a perfect game for the Giants. “I’ve been a Giants fan all the way,” he told the morning

Ever wondered if you would like Zumba, the Latin dance fitness program? A free 90-minute demonstration will be offered by five local

Continued next page

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show. He said the day he was my life.” drafted by his favorite team He was the GreenJackets was amazing. “The best day of opening day starter and gained national notoriety when former Heisman Trophy winner Tebow took him deep in his first minor league at bat. That landed Mazza an interview on the Dan Patrick Show, where he told the media star he’d remember that the next Clayton Valley Charter High School lacrosse coach Scott Neal time he faces Tebow. and his son Torin came up with In his first start after the perthe idea of a Hero Appreciation fect game, Mazza retired the first Day because of the number of nine Kannapolis (N.C.) Intimteam parents in law enforcement idator batters before giving up a and player siblings serving in the hit. He eventually was the losing military. Before a Diablo Athletic pitcher, allowing nine runs on 11 League game last month in Gonhits over 6 and 1/3 innings. To salves Stadium the team had a date, his only win this season has ceremony with representatives been the perfect game against from all four branches of the milifour losses, one more than he tary, including two Marines who had in the all of 2016. graduated from Clayton Valley Last week, Mazza faced the Charter. The Concord Police DeLegends again and was the star partment’s honor guard and K9 as Augusta broke a five-game team were present as well.

See Mazza, page 3

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Augusta GreenJackets pitcher Domenic Mazza of Concord made history by throwing the first perfect game in South Atlantic League history last month. The former Clayton Valley High and uCSB pitcher retired 27 consecutive Lexington Legends batters. The San Francisco Giants farmhand was the center of attention after his perfecto.

Hero Appreciation Day big success at lacrosse game

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Concord Market Update

May 26, 2017

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May 26, 2017

Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com

Page 3

In Brief...

Concord High student’s art heading to D.C. Trinh Nguyen, a junior at petition for California’s 11th vas entitled “Bullies” will be Concord High School, won the Congressional District. displayed in the U.S. Capitol, 2017 Congressional Art ComHer acrylic painting on can- along with winning artwork from all 50 states. The juried art show was open to all high school students who are residents of the 11th Congressional District. This summer, each winner and a guest will visit Washington for a reception to celebrate the opening of the exhibition. “Congratulations to Trinh and all of the students who participated in this year’s competition,” said Congressman Mark DeSaulnier. “I am truly inspired by the gifted young artists in our community. I applaud each of the talented students for their thoughtful and creative entries, and I look forward to seeing the artwork displayed.” Nguyen said her goal for the piece was to illustrate the state of when someone is being bullied through their Concord High artist Trinh Nguyen displays her artwork, “Bullies,” which won a competition sponsored by Congress- own perspective. “I blackened the background to show that man Mark DeSaulnier.

during these types of incidents, darkness is all the victim sees,” she says. “The ‘bullies’ that I created vary in the types of bullying seen in the world. The middle and right figures represent a more confrontational bully, while the one to their left portrays a supporter

instructors on Saturday, June 3 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. in Todos Santos Plaza, corner of Willow Pass road and Grant Street in Concord. The demonstration is free and open to all ages. Zumba has become very popular. Approximately 15 million people take Zumba classes in over 200,000 locations across 180 countries. All of the instructors taking part in the demonstration offer classes through the City of Concord on a variety of days and times. For more information, visit www.Concordreg.or g and explore the classes in the City Activity Guide.

for the bullying.” She chose red as the dominant color for the victim’s hands to grab attention. “Red is a vibrant color that symbolizes urgency and danger and, through that, I characterize the victim’s emotion,” she says.

Mazza, from page 2

losing streak. He threw seven dominant innings to give the GreenJackets a chance late and they scored to win 2-1. He gave up only one run and eight hits while striking out five. The 2015 draft pick by the Giants out of UC Santa Barbara is in his second season with the GreenJackets. Last season, he was 8-3 with a 3.93 ERA and recorded 79 strikeouts in 14 starts. The CVHS 2012 grad was selected in the

22nd round of the Major League Baseball draft after his junior season at UCSB. Mazza made headlines while at CVHS when he finished second as a 16-year-old in the Re/Max World Long Drive Golf Championship in Nevada in 2011. He turned down the $70,000 secondplace prize money to retain his amateur status and eligibility to pitch for his high school and then college teams.

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YV and Rotary join forces for Galindo work day

The Rotary Club of Concord and Ygnacio Valley High School Interact students provided and spread 40 cubic yards of wood chips equaling 400 wheelbarrow loads to beautify the grounds of the Concord Historical Society’s Galindo Home and Gardens during their “hands on” workday on April 22. Over 30 volunteers completed the job in less than 4 hours. Ohio Rotarian Jerry Leggett joined in with his guitar. Leggett is here on tour to promote Rotary International’s Peace and Conflict Resolution program.

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May 26, 2017

Local mayors shed light on region’s issues PEGGY SPEAR Concord Pioneer

Five Contra Costa mayors have a plea for residents of their communities: Lobby the state and federal governments for money to help solve regional concerns. Pleasant Hill Mayor Michael Harris perhaps said it best: “Lobby, lobby, lobby.” That was one of the main themes of the inaugural Diablo Valley Mayors’ Summit, held last month in Concord. The other four participating mayors were Martinez’s Rob Schroder, Lafayette’s Mike Anderson, Walnut Creek’s Rich Carlston and Concord’s Laura Hoffmeister. Sponsored by the cities’ Chambers of Commerce, the event was a chance to discuss major issues affecting communities in central Contra Costa County. Another central theme was that regional cooperation is essential to combat issues such as traffic, economic development, housing and homelessness. Contra Costa Supervisor Karen Mitchoff kicked off the meeting with a brief introduction of two of the main issues facing the county: Community Choice Energy and the legalization of marijuana. She noted that many cities are waiting to see how the county supports pot dispensaries in appropriate locations before taking action themselves. She sent the tone for the lunchtime discussion, which was attended by more than 100 dignitaries, chamber members and interested residents. The idea of regional cooperation was often heard when the mayors were tasked with answering questions. HOUSING A BROAD CONCERN In fact, on the issue of affordable housing, Hoffmeister said that it is not just a local problem – but a national one. She also blamed Gov. Jerry

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Brown’s elimination of redevelopment agencies as a major hurdle cities and regions have to clear. She said that creating transit-oriented housing – such as the apartments slated near the downtown Concord BART station – is a smart move. Schroder said that his city, home to one of the busiest Amtrak stations in the country, needs to form alliances “not as individual cities but as a region.” Harris agreed that cities have been hit hard by the loss of redevelopment funds. As mayor of one of the most popular cities in the East Bay for real estate, Harris said he and his constituents must look for creative ways to combat high housing costs. Carlston perhaps hit the nail on the head when he said that the lack of housing stock in the Diablo Valley impacts the workforce. “Workers then need to look outside the Bay Area for housing, and that just adds to traffic congestion on the roads.” In other words, there is no easy answer to the housing crunch, according to the panel. On the issues of economic development, the mayors all agreed that a regional approach was best because each community offered different things for

different businesses. Anderson said the Lafayette downtown has had success by creating a shopping and restaurant hub near the BART station. Schroder, with no BART station in Martinez, said he has the strong support of the chamber and downtown groups to help create a new vibrancy. The city hopes to have a ferry landing in the near future. Harris cautioned that it was difficult to attract businesses when each nearby city is competing for them, so he also touted a regional approach.

LOOKING FOR SYNERGY The Walnut Creek mayor pointed down I-680 to the synergy created because the towns of Livermore, Pleasanton, Dublin and San Ramon market themselves under one umbrella of the Tri-Valley. That approach has had success in attracting tourism to the area. Carlston noted that his city and Pleasant Hill are already banding together to market

and Customs Enforcement (ICE). She also pushed for a more robust rent stabilization program, allowing those who work in the city to be able to live here. Anita Johnson of the Mt. Diablo Education Association urged listeners to attend hearings on the Northgate High School movement to secede from the Mt. Diablo Unified School District. She cited changes in racial demo-

in this way,” said Mayor Laura Hoffmeister. “We will find other ways to manage the budget shortfall.” One way would be to include sales and property taxes that may come in when the Veranda Shopping Center and other larger commercial enterprises open – money Reid did not include in her budget projections.

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graphics that could drastically affect the community. A trio of agitators circled the crowd with signs supporting President Donald Trump’s immigration policies and the proposed wall at the Mexican border, but they elicited little response from participants. Blanca Colin, a participant and Concord resident, spoke to me through an interpreter. “The whole community is

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hotels and “take on a Tri Valley approach.” Hoffmeister, whose city has had success with its hotels joining together to create a tourism district, said the goal isn’t to steal business from other cities but to find the right fit for each community. The mayors also saw homelessness as a regional issue. Schroder lamented the loss of county employee Doug Stewart, who recently retired. Stewart helped many in the area’s homeless population find treatment centers and temporary housing. “The problems (for the homeless) are lack of affordable housing, mental health issues and addiction issues,” he said, adding that his city and Pleasant Hill are working together with trained volunteers in those areas to help the homeless population. Harris said that rather than police enforcement, this dedicated task force would include people who understand mental health and

March, from page 1

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afraid,” she said. “Our rights are not respected and are violated. Employees, especially in the restaurant and construction trades, are not getting a fair salary.” The May Day events also featured “A Day Without Immigrants,” a nationwide movement to call attention to the importance of immigrant workers. Many businesses in Concord were closed, notably Concord Produce on Monument, while worker absences affected many other local businesses. One carwash on North Main had waits of

close to an hour. Beth Trimarco, a member of Raise the Roof Coalition, called it “a beautiful, moving event. The people of Concord came together. During the march, many people came out of their apartments and out of restaurants and joined up to support our efforts to make Concord a sanctuary city.” In all, tens of thousands joined the protest throughout the Bay Area. Some arrests were made elsewhere, but the Concord event remained peaceful.

bers and the mayor. Under state law, city councils may increase their pay by 5 percent per year from the effective date of the previous raise. Concord council members have not voted to increase their salary since 2006, when they gave themselves a $542 annual raise. They currently receive $1,300 monthly. “We have to honor labor,” Birsan said. “We pay our employees relevant to their labor, and we can’t ignore ourselves.” He compared what Concord officials were making with other Contra Costa County cities, such as Richmond. The smaller community, population-wise, pays council members $1,402, and the mayor gets $3,875 per month. His proposal was $56 a month, or 4 percent, for the next two years. “That’s chump change,” Birsan said. While other council members agreed that they spend their own money when going to events and donating to causes – not to mention the time involved – they wanted more information on how this would affect the budget. Councilwoman Carlyn Obringer was against the raise. “Many people think this is my full-time job,” she said. “But I

choose to be of public service, so I’m not inclined to support an increase.” Most council members agreed on one thing: The mayor’s position deserved a raise, because of the extra time that position requires. However, Hoffmeister opposed the plan. “I’ve been mayor five times, and I don’t do that much more than others on the council,” she said. Councilman Ron Leone disagreed. “I’ve been mayor, and there is a huge demand on the mayor’s time. There is a lot more on your plate.” he said. “God bless you for handling it so efficiently,” he said to Hoffmeister. “I’m not complaining,” Leone added,” but it would be nice to get a little bit of an increase.” At the end of the discussion, everyone but Hoffmeister agreed that the mayor should get an increase. The other council members, citing the looming deficit and possibility of another recession, were hesitant to support a raise for themselves. But Hoffmeister said that by giving themselves even a small raise, it “resets the clock” when a future council may want to do something different.

Local mayors, from left, rich Carlston of Walnut Creek, Michael Harris of Pleasant Hill, rob Schroder of Martinez, Mike Anderson of Lafayette and Concord's Laura Hoffmeister discuss many issues affecting the region at the first Diablo Valley Mayors' Summit.

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came up frequently when talking about SB1, the new transit tax. “We depend on state and local funding for roads,” Harris said. Carlston emphasized that it is a regional issue when talking about the valley’s two main non-freeway arteries, Treat Boulevard and Ygnacio Valley Boulevard, which affect Concord, Walnut Creek and even Pleasant Hill. “There are roughly 170,000 car trips a day on those two roads,” he said, “more than on Highway 4.” Hoffmeister underscored the need for lobbying the Legislature. “We need to make sure we get adequate funds,” she said. “Many of our roads intersect.” In talking about “big development” coming to the region, Hoffmeister said that needs are changing. While her city is poised to become an industrial hub, a different type of worker will be required. “There will be more robotics in technology and manufacturing, but we have to have people who understand them,” she said. That means attracting a tech-savvy workforce and working with local schools to develop more technical training courses. Schroeder called Martinez a good industrial city as well, at the “cul-de-sac” of industrial and recreational activities. Harris said Pleasant Hill is a “very good area” for light industrial and technology businesses, noting that the city has teamed with local universities to bring in a skilled workforce. The summit was the first such event presented by the Chambers of Commerce, and representatives say they hope to continue the event annually.

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“If we have revenue from that, we will adjust at the midyear budget or next year’s budget cycles,” she said. Reid said she does not expect to see significant sales tax revenue from the Veranda, located on Diamond Boulevard, until 2018.

DEFICIT LOOMS The budget workshop was the first parry in this year’s budget cycle, a chance for the council to make observations and suggest changes. A public hearing on the capital improvement budget will be held June 13, with the final hearing scheduled for June 27, when Reid expects the council to adopt the budget. Still looming in the city’s 10-year forecast is the $13 million deficit projected in 2026, assuming the city maintains a 30 percent reserve. This is largely from the city’s unfunded liabilities, like pensions to former employees. RAISES FOR COUNCIL Another lively discussion broke out when Birsan suggested that the city raise the salaries of the council mem-

addiction. Carlston said that the idea was not to let one city get overcrowded with homeless and touched upon an irony: The more services a city offers, the more it attracts homeless. A better plan would be to spread services across the region. Noting that Concord police has a homeless task force, Hoffmeister said they are seeing problems because of a state mandate that released prisoners of minor crimes. “We lost tools,” she said, because a judge can’t mandate those who commit nuisance crimes to jail, except for a short stay before being released with nowhere to go. Lafayette’s Anderson said that his city also has homeless issues and decried the lack of mental health agencies to help them. “We must lobby the Legislature for more funds,” he said.

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Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com

Page 5

If it affects entire district, all should be allowed to vote

EDI BIRSAN PULSE OF

CONCORD

If a school district is to be divided amicably, it would seem that it has to be in the interest of the two segments that are created. I would also expect that it would have overwhelming support of the entire original district. It generally holds true that the higher performing sections tend to get organized to separate from the lower performing schools. This brings about a lop-

sided division where one segment is significantly better off than the other. Then, it is the voters’ perception that is important. One way to push the imbalance is to change the electorate so that only those who would gain would be allowed to vote. This would exclude those who would lose by the division. Think of the 1861 secession votes in the South; there was no vote in the North as to whether that was acceptable. In the Mt. Diablo Unified School District (MDUSD), a segment of people want to rearrange the feeder pattern to Northgate High School, change existing boundaries and separate from MDUSD to form a new district. Supporters only want those in the projected new district to vote – despite the fact that this impacts the entire district economically, socially and educationally. My children and grandchildren had an opportunity to go to

Pilots, from page 1

aviation after a pilot at his church offered to take kids up for a flight. He has been a pilot for 36 years and served in the Air Force. He also has flown for the Office of Emergency Services and volunteered for flights involving blood and tissue donations. Abhiram Mokkapati, a 12year-old Concord resident, started flying three years ago to earn a Cub Scout aviation badge. He loved it so much that he continues with the Young Eagles and introduced the program to his

younger brother Suhas. “I love the bird’s eye view and learning what all the buttons do,” Abhiram says. “I have gotten to fly the plane before. It’s a mixture of fun and scary. This experience has made me want to get my pilot’s license someday.” EAA Chapter 393 also sponsors a scholarship for one 16- to 17-year-old each year to attend a one-week Air Academy in Oshkosh, Wis. Last year’s winner, Concord High senior Ashley Wallig, is interested in the engineering side of aviation. The

Northgate with an internal transfer. If this plan is approved, they would be relegated to “out of district” rather than an internal priority match. Yet the separatists do not want my family to vote on the changes. Political pressure on the Walnut Creek City Council was obvious when it voted to support the concept that only those who wish to separate from MDUSD should vote. That group is conveniently comprised of about 80 percent Walnut Creek residents and 20 percent Concord residents. It is downright un-American that the entire district’s population should be denied a voice in what happens to their district. If it is to come down to a vote of the people, then I should remind the community that in Concord, the slogan is Where Families Come First – not Where Some Families Come First. Send comments to EdiBirsan@gmail.com or 510-812-8180 or visit www.PulseOfConcord.com

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Air Academy included lessons on aeronautics and weather, construction projects, an air show, plenty of time in flight simulators and several flights. “It was awesome,” Ashley says. “I plan to attend CSU Chico next year to study mechanical engineering.” In the meantime, she volunteers at EAA events to help the younger pilots prepare for their flights. “Kids have come back and told me how learning to fly has changed their lives. They have found a future profession or life passion,” Tucker notes. “That makes it all worth it.” For more information, visit www.eaa393.org.

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Lemon cucumbers a KidFest a potpourri of entertainment for families refreshing summer treat

Page 6

Concord’s famous Bay Area KidFest returns this weekend for the 28th year. As one of the Bay Area’s longest-running family events, the event offers three days of jam-packed entertainment, activities, food and fun. In a spacious outdoor setting at Mt. Diablo High School in downtown Concord, KidFest features free non-stop entertainment on the Main Stage. Local groups include Da Island Way, D’Ann’s Academy of Dance and Music, USKS Family Martial Arts, Concord Kung Fu Academy and CCB Martial Arts. Traveling shows coming to KidFest are the super popular Wild About Monkeys, Python Ron’s Reptile Kingdom, Robert Castillo’s BMX Freestyle Team and the chance to meet and have your photo taken with Batman and Curious George. The low admission price includes dozens of free activities for kids, such as Kid’s Town America, face painting, balloon hats, spin art, keepsake handprints, slides, crawls, kiddie golf and soccer. This year, KidFest offers an all-day, all-ride wristband for all the thrilling rides. There will be a zip line, Bobble Lagoon, Dragon Wagon roller coaster, Xtreme Lasertag, Euro Bungy trampoline, Spider Mountain, Ferris wheel, giant slide, petting zoo, pony rides, a train and more. There’s also an eclectic Food

Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com

May 26, 2017

DEBRA MORRIS Pacific Coast Farmers Market

Lemon cucumbers are one of the hidden gems at farmers market. Mounds of these fun, whitish-yellow orbs are available now through August or September from FT Fresh, KYK Farms or Padao & Ky Yang, all from Fresno. The light green to lemonyellow color turns a golden yellow as it ripens. They offer a mild cucumber taste with just a hint of lemon and are less acidic than other cucumbers. It is also a “burpless” variety, meaning it is less bitter and will not have an aftertaste. With a cool, crisp texture, the lemon

cucumber is a great addition to texture. salads this summer. • Make a chilled cucumber Among the uses: soup, perfect for summer. • Make pickles, mixing with • Slice and add to chilled regular pickling cucumbers water or a cocktail. or canning on their own. See Market, page 9 • Slice into salads for great

Mayor, from page 1

Court, arts and crafts and exhibitor booths. For the seventh year, KidFest presents a special Memorial Day ceremony at noon Monday, May 29, with the 17-time world champion Concord Blue Devils C Drum and Bugle Corps, Mt. Diablo High School Jr. ROTC color guard and music honoring America’s service people past and present sung by JanElle Feraro. Admission is $6 with a donation of canned food, or $7 without the donation. On Saturday, attendees can

bring two canned goods to get $2 off admission. Children under 24 months and seniors 65+ are free. Proceeds benefit local educational, health and sports groups, along with the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano. KidFest is open 10 a.m.6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Memorial Day. The event is at Mt. Diablo High School, 2450 Grant St., just off Highway 242. For more information, visit www.kidfestconcord.com.

community-based nonprofit organizations. CHF also has partnered with these groups to expand and enhance healthcare services for seniors and the county’s neediest individuals and families. Meals on Wheels/Senior Outreach Services (MOWSOS) enhances the lives of older adults in Concord and throughout the county who have a full range of needs. The group provides coordinated care that enables older adults to live independently and with dignity for as long as possible. Over the next 15 years, Contra Costa County’s older adult population (age 60+) is projected to increase 52 percent. Nearly 40,000 will be considered low-income, needing additional support such as food, counseling and fall prevention modifications in order to remain living independently at home. Every day, MOWSOS delivers more than meals to needy seniors in our area. The Concord Senior Center operates lunch meals through the CC Café program, a vital service to Concord seniors with support from MOWSOS. In 2013, CHF began giving funding and expertise to support MOWSOS by providing an important piece of modern health care. MOWSOS care managers connect older adults to free or affordable health providers, legal and financial

source of grant funds for Meals on Wheels Senior Outreach Services. The grants are provided through cities, including Concord, and the county. I assure you that federal government cuts to CDBG funding would have a devastating effect on your neighbors, friends, relatives and our seniors. Slashing CDBG funds will result in an exponential rise in senior hunger, malnutrition, depression and likely death. In Contra Costa County, 35,000 seniors are threatened by hunger and 78,000 are isolated and living alone. Meals on Wheels saves lives one meal and one visit at a time. Furthermore, the CC Café program receives support from MOWSOS. This is a vital service to many Concord seniors. MOWSOS will be forced to drastically cut services should these federal CDBG cuts take place. Don’t let our seniors suffer, or worse, die hungry and forgotten. Please act now by calling or writing your Congress person today. Volunteer opportunities also exist: visiting with a homebound senior, delivering meals, or helping in the CC Café program, offices or at special events. For more information about volunteering with Meals on Wheels Senior Outreach Services, call 925937-8311 or visit www.mowsos.org.

assistance, elder abuse counselors and many other services. MOWSOS recently received a grant from the county to create its first dedicated case manager for elder abuse. Chief executive officer Elaine Clark believes MOWSOS received the grant because of the reputation it earned with CHF support. MOWSOS is but one example of CHF’s impact. This small but powerful community asset has brought sustainable primary care, mental health care, specialty care, dental care and an array of supportive services to tens of thousands of Contra Costans who otherwise would have gone without. MOWSOS also holds workshops that help family members care more effectively for a loved one. MOWSOS is the comprehensive support organization for seniors in Contra Costa County. The 20th anniversary of CHF is truly a reason to celebrate. However, this celebration may be short lived because this critical life-sustaining service is under threat. You may have heard that the president’s “skinny budget” calls for eliminating all Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding. This was followed up with statements that programs Email questions and comsuch as Meals on Wheels are ments to the Mayor at Laura. not effective. Hoffmeister@cityofconcord.org CDBG funding is a primary

Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com

Police aim to ease burden for car theft victims

GuY SWANGEr

POLICE CHIEF

As overall crime continues to decline in Concord, auto theft remains a persistent problem. Like so many before me, I have responded to hundreds of calls about people losing their cars. You wake up in the morning, walk out to go to work and your car is missing. Or you go the mall, buy out Macy’s and walk back to an empty stall. It is crushing. I had my personal truck stolen from a movie theater lot. It was so long ago, but I remember the officer saying to me: “You sure are handling this well.” I was a police officer. I knew

the drill. Victim calls. Officer comes. Report is taken. Victim calls insurance. Pray you have the coverage for a rental. And wait. Although 80-90 percent of stolen cars are returned, there is more to the problem. Some families have only one car. They use it for work, taking the kids to school and everything else. Maybe their insurance does not cover rental cars. A lot of victims owe more on their loan than the car is worth. But what really stuck with me recently is the amount of time we make victims wait before we can send an officer to take the stolen car report. I was reading a report one of my officers had prepared for me regarding auto thefts. I had asked the question that had been on my mind for a few months: Why do we make people wait in

a parking lot, on the street or wherever they are when the car was stolen? It does not seem right, and I wondered if there was a better way. When your house is broken into or your business is robbed, you can wait for police inside a building. But if your car is taken while you are shopping or at the movies, where can you go? And what happens when you are stuck in another city? Losing your transportation is a big experience. And if you have to wait for a long period for an officer, that experience becomes real bad, real fast. There are almost 1,000 cars stolen in Concord each year. The average response time for an officer in Concord to respond to an auto theft is one hour. If it is a busy day, you may have to wait for an hour and a half. That is a long time to wait.

We are searching for ways to reduce auto thefts. But I am also challenging my staff and myself to find ways to improve our responses to auto thefts and recoveries. We need to make the experience of losing your car less burdensome by responding in an efficient and caring manner and getting your car back to you in a timely and least costly way. We recently changed our follow-ups with burglaries and have received great feedback. And we saw positive reductions in those crimes. I will be providing updates to our possible improvements in auto theft responses in the next month. Please follow us on Facebook. Guy Swanger is Concord’s Chief of Police. Send questions or comments to ContactCPD@cityofconcord.org.

A guide for additions or accessory dwellings

DOMINIC ALIANO

PLANNING COMMISSION

I thought it would be useful to provide a brief description of the application process for constructing an addition to a house or adding a detached accessory dwelling unit. An addition to a house could include someone expanding a living room or kitchen, or constructing an additional bedroom. A detached accessory dwelling unit is detached from the primary residence but is on the same grounds as the primary dwelling.

Step 1 would be for the homeowner or contractor to determine the property’s zoning. This is important because each home is situated on a parcel zoned for a particular use. Once you discover how a parcel is zoned, you can learn about the development standards. These include minimum lot size, maximum building height, minimum building setback and design requirements. Step 2 would be to create a site plan, floor plan and elevation plan. These plans would include the perimeter of the property, the existing structure and the proposed new structure; the distance of the new structure from the property line and other structures; identifying the use of the addition; and the height of the building. Step 3 is submitting an application through the Concord Building Division for a building permit. The permit application will require the

Kindergarteners count down at the library

KIMBErLI BuCKLEY

CONCORD LIBRARY Starting kindergarten can be filled with excitement, but it can also make kids feel nervous. Thanks to our children’s librarians, the Concord Library is offering Kindergarten Countdown. It’s a fun and interactive way to help make sure that youngsters are better prepared to start school and that they are ready to succeed. Kindergarten Countdown helps children who have little or no preschool experience or who are identified as being at risk of having trouble in school. By attending Kindergarten Countdown, children can gain valuable academic and social experience. They may also increase their readiness to read, which is critical for entering kindergarten.

Early learning and succeeding in school at all levels is important. That’s why the Contra Costa County Library focuses on programs like Summer Reading, Lunch at the Library and Kindergarten Countdown. By creating opportunities for children of all ages, libraries can provide a foundation for youth to grow up to be healthy, happy and engaged adults in the community. If you have children starting kindergarten in the fall, join the Kindergarten Countdown workshops to help them learn and practice skills that will help them get ready for kindergarten. We will offer several workshops that feature hands-on activities to reinforce early learning skills. Participants will receive a calendar of other activity ideas for continued practice. The Concord Friends of the Library sponsors this free program. Space is limited, so contact the library at 925-646-5455 or register online at ccclib.org/locations/concord. Kimberli Buckley is the senior community library manager at the Concord branch of the Contra Costa Library. Email questions or comments to KBuckley@ccclib.org

three plans (site, floor and elevation) and a building permit fee, which varies in cost. You do not have to have the plans completed to apply for a building permit. But you must eventually have the planning division review the plans in order for the city to

proceed with the application. I encourage those interested in proceeding with this process to design your plans and review them with a planner before applying for a building permit.

See Planning, page 19

This is no time to be idle – our air quality is at stake

KArEN MITCHOFF

COUNTY

SUPERVISOR

when it is parked or not in use, for example, when waiting to pick someone up from school, sports practice or the library, sitting at a drive-through or car wash, or checking email and voicemail. BAAQMD finds that individual drivers can save fuel and reduce their carbon footprints by up to 1,500 pounds of greenhouse gases per year if they go idle free. On April 25, in conjunction with Earth Day, each member of the county Board of Supervisors took the Idle Free Pledge. We promised to turn off our vehicle engines when waiting for more than 30 seconds to reduce air pollution and save gas. The board is the first local government in the Bay Area to go idle free. The Pittsburg Unified School District was the first school district in the East Bay to launch idle free zones throughout the entire district, encouraging staff, parents and students to be idle free at work, school and play. For me, taking the Idle Free Pledge was a no-brainer. Research shows that the best way to warm up your car is to drive it, rather than letting it idle in the driveway. And, shutting off and restarting your car has little impact on engine components. We have an opportunity to reduce greenhouse gas emissions with one simple change. By doing our part to incorporate this new habit, we can provide cleaner air for Contra Costa children and reduce the occurrence of asthma and other health impacts in our community. To take the Idle Free Pledge, visit idlefreebayarea.org/idle-freepledge.

I am in my third year on the Bay Area Air Quality Management District’s (BAAQMD) board of directors. The air district is tasked with regulating stationary sources of air pollution in the nine counties that surround San Francisco Bay. The board oversees policies and adopts regulations for the control of air pollution within the district. One of our recent initiatives has been educating the community on changes we can make that improve air quality. BAAQMD has identified car exhaust as the No. 1 source of poor air quality in the summertime, with negative impacts on public health including aggravated asthma, coughing or difficult breathing, decreased lung function, cardiovascular problems and chronic bronchitis. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that idling in personal vehicles wastes about 3 billion gallons of fuel and generates about 15 million tons of carbon dioxide annually. The department states that eliminating the unnecessary idling of personal vehicles would be the same as taking 5 million vehicles off the roads. BAAQMD has instituted an Karen Mitchoff is Contra Costa Idle Free Pledge. Individuals County District IV supervisor. Email who take the pledge agree that questions or comments to they will turn off their engine karen.mitchoff@bos.cccounty.us

Page 7

Directory of Advertisers All phone numbers 925 area code unless otherwise noted

Business Services

O.C. Communications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(916) 215-9309 Rising Moon Marketing & Public Relations . . . 672-8717 Construction and Trades

Appliance Repairs by Bruce, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . 672-2700 Diablo View Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 822-5144

Gary’s Home Repair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 787-2500

J.A. Ronco Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 872-3049 Tipperary Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 216-2679 Dining and Entertainment

Clayton Club Saloon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 673-0440

Oakhurst Country Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 672-9737 Events

KidFest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.kidfestconcord.com Pacific Coast Farmers’ Market . . . . . . . . .(800) 949-3276 Wings of Freedom Tour . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(800) 568-8924 Financial, Insurance and Legal Services

Van Wyck, Doug – State Farm Insurance . . . . 672-2300 Funerals

Ouimet Funeral Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 682-4242 Health and Wellness

Clayton Valley Medical Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . 672-6744

Harvest House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 676-2305 Home and Garden

Diablo Lawnscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 381-3757

Interiors Panache . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 672-7920 Nichols Landscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 672-9955

Skim ‘n’ Dip – Pool Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 348-5609

Waraner Bros. Tree Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 831-2323 Waraner Tree Experts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 250-0334 Mailing Services

The UPS Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 689-6245 Real Estate and Mortgage Services

Bennett, Nancy – Keller Williams . . . . . . . . . . . 606-8400

Clayton Fair Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 685-0324 French, Lynne – Windermere Real Estate . . . . 672-8787 Lopez, Stephanie – Coldwell Banker . . . . . . . . 305-9099

Mazzei, Matt – Mazzei Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-0757 Stojanovich, Jennifer – Better Homes Realty . . 567-6170 Vujnovich, George - Better Homes Realty . . . . 672-4433 Services, Other

ComputersUSA! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 672-9989 Net Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 672-6029 Recycling Center & Transfer Station . . . . . . . . 682-4518 Travel

Travel to Go . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 672-9840

License # 958849

F r om the desk o f . . . May 26, 2017

Design • Installation • Maintenance Commercial & Residential • 925-381-3757

Advertise in the Concord Pioneer. Call us at 925.672.0500

Page 8

Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com

May 26, 2017

Hearty Euphorbia thrives in local gardens

NICOLE HACKETT

GARDEN GIRL

With colorful blooms, this shrub can withstand sun, gophers and deer

Many years ago a family of shrubs caught my attention. The family is called Euphorbia. They were desirable to the eye, and stood out amongst the other plants in the nursery. Like most families, Euphorbias have many members; some look similar,

while others do not. Regardless of appearance, Euphorbia can be counted on as thriving in our Concord and Clayton Valley landscapes. They require sun or part sun, are winter and summer hardy, waterwise, and gopher and deer resistant. This really is the perfect plant for many applications. What really make the Euphorbia family so interesting are their blooms. Stalks rise above the foliage, holding lateral stems of what appears to be flowers. The so-called flowers of Euphorbia are really clusters of inverted leaves called bracts. Sometimes the bracts are different colors, depending on the variety. Within the bract, you will see a smaller cluster; this piece is the actual flower, which fades fast. The bract however remains

EUPHORBIA BLACKBIRD

long past the flower, giving the landscape the illusion of a shrub still in bloom. It is totally awesome. Euphorbia Martinii is the easiest family member to find. Deep green bottom leaves have

purple tinted undersides. The undersides are interesting, and create a dramatic dash in the landscape. When blooming, chartreuse green bracts hold burgundy cluster shaped flowers. This evergreen loves full to six hours of sun a day. It will eventually reach three- to four-feet tall and wide. Euphorbia Martinii may re-seed within a landscape. Remove young sprouts early if they plant themselves where they’re not wanted. If the size of the Euphorbia Martinii is too much to handle, consider

Euphorbia “Tiny Tim.” This selection has the same overall appearance, yet reaches only one- to two-feet tall and wide. “Silver Swan” is a variegated selection of Euphorbia. Leaves are olive green with distinctive cream margins. The bract of the Silver Swan has the same variegation as the leaves; the flower within is a light cream. This selection would pop in a landscape off setting the dark blades of New Zealand Flax. Silver Swan matures to a controllable 2’ tall and wide. Unlike some Euphorbias, this variety seldom re-seeds. “Ruby Glow” Euphorbia has purple tinted foliage, with bright red new growth. The flower bracts of the Ruby Glow are yellow and they contrast nicely with the body of the plant. This Euphorbia is compact in size, and reaches two-feet tall and wide. This selection is a musthave. It would be great container or ground grown. “Blackbird Euphorbia” is another almost black foliage selection. Blackbird was introduced in 2010, so it more avail-

able than the Ruby Glow. Blackbird Euphorbia has deep red leaves that mature to a dark purple, almost black color. The flower bracts of the Blackbird Euphorbia are a golden lime green. All of the Euphorbias can tolerate full sun, yet some are even happy with partial. Once established, Euphorbias are very waterwise, and love to dry out some between watering. When the winter gets too cold, the Euphorbia family will sleep, and return at the first signs of spring. When tending, wear gloves as the sap of this shrub irritates some people. It is that irritating sap that makes this plant gopher and deer resistant. So this planting season, if you are looking for a tough, unique installation, consider Euphorbia. You’ll be glad that you did. Nicole is the Garden Girl at R&M Pool, Patio, Gifts and Garden. You can contact her with questions or comments by email at Gardengirl@claytonpioneer.com

Clarion site has long history in Concord CArOL LONGSHOrE

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For more information please contact

Ph: 925.672.9840 travel-2-go.com

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* Sample discount is based on double occupancy in a Club category room on select weeks at Ixtapa Pacific, Mexico and Turkoise, Turks & Caicos. Discounts on other dates, room categories and/or at other resorts may vary. Blackout dates apply, including holidays and other dates. Offer requires a 3-night minimum stay (7-night minimum for Columbus Isle). Available at select resorts. Does not include airfare. Valid for new individual bookings only for select travel dates with check-in on or after May 3, 2017 and check-out on or before November 3, 2017 and must be booked between May 3 and June 21, 2017. Offer is subject to capacity control and may increase at any time. **Sample $400 air credit is per person, based on a 7-night stay in a Suite category room on select weeks at Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, and Cancun Yucatan, Mexico. Air credit is available at Punta Cana, Cancun Yucatan, Ixtapa Pacific, and Sandpiper Bay. Children between 13 and 15 years of age receive 60% of the air credit of an adult. Children between 4 and 12 years of age receive half of the air credit of an adult. Children under 4 do not receive an air credit. Credits on other dates, resorts, stay duration, room categories may vary. Blackout dates apply. Offer requires a 3-night minimum stay and air must be booked through Club Med. Valid for new individual bookings only for select travel dates with check-in on or after March 4, 2017 and check-out on or before November 3, 2017 and must be booked betweenMay 3 and June 21, 2017, subject to capacity control and may increase at any time. ^Upgrades TBD ***Offer available on select dates at Ixtapa Pacific, Mexico, Sandpiper Bay, USA, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, Cancun Yucatan, Mexico, Columbus Isle, Bahamas, Buccaneers Creek, Martinque, Caravelle, Guadeloupe, and Turkoise, Turks & Caicos. Valid for new individual bookings only for select travel dates with check-in on or March 4, 2017 and check-out on or before November 3, 2017 and must be booked between May 3 and June 21, 2017. Blackout dates apply. Offer is subject to capacity control and may be withdrawn at any time.^^Children aged under 4 years stay for free at our family destinations. Children aged 4-11 years stay at up to 50% off adult price at select family resorts. Children aged 12-15 years stay at up to 40% off adult price at select family resorts. And for bookings for travel beginning May 1, 2017 children aged 12-15 years stay at up to 30% off adult price at select family resorts For flights that are booked through Club Med, tickets for children must be paid for by the client. Children who are eligible to stay for free must be lodged in the same room as the adults who are paying for their stay, or in a connecting room. Blackout dates may apply. Costs associated with Baby & Petit Club Med are at full day rate during entire stay booked. General Conditions: Blackout dates apply, including holidays and other dates. For Turkoise all guests must be 18 and older. Guests at Columbus Isle must be 2 and older. Club Med Membership fees of $60 per adult and $30 per child are additional. Other restrictions apply including brochure terms and cancellation/change fees. Not responsible for errors or omissions. Void where prohibited or restricted by law. CST#: 2020955-50.

Kerri Harris-Gay, marketing and event coordinator, proudly shows off the entrance to the Clairon Hotel. There are weddings performed in the atrium there. And even though it was in the midst of a remodel, the hotel was fresh and clean for the Mayor’s Summit a few weeks ago. The Holiday Inn came to Concord in the 1970s, as the Concord Inn was fading – much to the dismay of the community, especially politicians and newspaper reporters. The Concord Inn was where everyone gathered to talk shop and make deals. After the Concord Inn closed, Sheraton and Hilton also came to town. The Hilton is the only one that remains under the same name. The Holiday Inn was around for about 25 years, and Harris-Gay worked there with

THE ATRIUM AT THE CLARION HOTEL

her friend Mary Ann Rhoe. However, the inn slowly went downhill. The Red Lion was there for a short time, and then the Burnett Avenue site was fenced off for awhile. Three young men from Canada had been flipping houses and had a good relationship with their banker, who suggested they may want to try a different avenue and showed them the Holiday Inn property. In 2012, Service Hospitality took over and the boys went to work.

While hiring staff, they found out that those in the industry know each other fairly well. They hired Rhoe, who asked Harris-Gay if she was interested in coming back. The two have helped revitalize this hotel that’s been in Concord for so many years.

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.

B USINESS

May 26, 2017

MArILYN FOWLEr

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Concord’s Economic Development Division recently worked to update its 2010 Economic Vitality Strategy (EVS). The city developed the EVS in 1997. It was first revised/updated in 2002 and again in 2010. The EVS includes efforts to attract, retain and expand businesses in Concord. It also identifies methods and programs that will be used to augment Concord’s customer service focus, business districts and retail centers. The Economic Development Division held several public workshops, including a

Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com

City revises marketing strategy to target emerging industries session with business leaders at the Concord Chamber of Commerce. Suggestions included expanding social media marketing efforts and improving the retail environment. Some of the EVS’s goals are to implement a marketing strategy to strengthen the Concord brand identity, to target key emerging industries in Concord, to support Concord business centers such as North Concord, Clayton, downtown and the Monument districts, and to retain, expand, develop and attract business. There have been many successes in the past year. Concord is now seeing the benefits of its ongoing efforts to attract residential developments, commercial developments and new businesses to our city. More than 800 new multi-

family units are either under construction or in the review process in downtown Concord, including Renaissance Phase II, Grant Street Apartments, Concord Village, Town Center II and Argent Apartments. New businesses are moving into town as well. The Veranda shopping center is under construction at the former Chevron site on Diamond Boulevard. The Veranda is a 375,000 sq. ft. lifestyle retail center on a 30-acre property that is estimated to open in November. Across the street, Golden State Lumber is constructing a 74,000 sq. ft. indoor lumber yard expected to open this month. Last year, Bay Alarm purchased the 66,000 sq. ft. former Heald Business College building on 7.75 acres on Commercial Circle for relocation of its corporate head-

quarters. They’ve begun operating there while renovations and tenant improvements are being completed. The Concord Chamber continues to partner with the city to support and attract businesses. On May 25, we hosted our second annual Business Insights Bus Tour. The bus took attendees on a tour through many of the business areas in Concord, followed by lunch and a Q&A session. For more information on the Economic Development Division, contact Pedro Garcia at pedro.garcia@cityofconcord.org or 925-671-3048.

Marilyn Fowler is the president/CEO of the Concord Chamber of Commerce. For more information on chamber programs, call 925-685-1181 or email mfowler@concordchamber.com.

Few could rally a bid on White House

located in the house are a doctor’s office, a flower shop and a bowling alley. If you were able to buy it (which of course you can’t), LYNNE FrENCH your mortgage payment on a REAL ANSWERS 30-year fixed with 20 percent down would be $1.6 million a Q. What is the White month. If you decided to rent House worth? it out, the monthly payment A. According to Zillow would be more than $2 million. hypothetical data, it is worth That’s good cash flow. $397.9 million. It has appreciated 15 percent since Barack Q. How about some Obama’s inauguration in 2009. celebrity abodes that are for His term coincided with the sale? massive recovery of the U.S. A. Jane Fonda’s Hollywood housing market. home is available for $12.995 Built in the 1800s, the million, according to RISMeestate offers more than 130 dia. The estate is eco-friendly, rooms, 35 bathrooms and 18 with bamboo floors, thermal acres. The grounds include glass, double-glazed UV winbasketball and tennis courts, dows with motorized shades, and the residence features a photovoltaic electric panels gym, sun room and library. and a solar-heated pool. The president and his family It sits on a 36,000 sq. ft. lot reside on the top two floors of in the sought-after Trousdale the six-story residence. Also

Estates section of Beverly Hills. The home has 7,100 sq. ft. and boasts an open floor plan, a pristine pool, home gym, entertainment room with a bar, bathrooms larger than most city apartments and a bedroom suite with one of those fancy living rooms for when you want to entertain guests in your boudoir. “It is a great home for parties. The house inspires me to be comfortable and have a good time. I had my 75th birthday here,” Fonda says. Ricky Martin just lowered the price for his Upper East Side apartment from $8.4 million to the bargain price of $7.1 million. He bought it for $5.9 million in 2012. It is a family-friendly high rise overlooking Carl Schurz Park, the East River and Gracie Mansion – the official residence of New York City

Mayor Bill de Blasio. The 3,147 sq. ft. unit is in a building with influences of architect Peter Marino, who conceptualized stores for Calvin Klein, Dior and Louis Vuitton. It has a minimalist kitchen with floor to ceiling windows, featuring Wolf and Miele appliances and Quartzite countertops. His apartment has four bedrooms; two are master suites with master baths awash in Italian marble. You will be living La Vida Loca with amenities including a painting room for the children, yoga studio, driving range simulator, library and squash court.

TV, radio and lights. If someone is casing your house, they’ll notice the lights coming on at the same time each day and figure out that you are not at home. Consider purchasing a motion sensor to discourage anyone from getting too close to the entrance or exit. Some of these measures can be costly but so can losing your keepsakes and valuables. Seniors on a fixed income can at least ask a trusted friend or neighbor to keep an eye out for suspicious activity. They might even be willing to park their car in your driveway. Remember to stop the mail

and the newspaper, so these items don’t pile up. That’s a sure sign no one’s at home. Unplug computers, stereos and other electronics in case of a power surge or install a good surge protector. Then, have a wonderful vacation and don’t worry about things at home. Christine Kogut is a marketing director for the Concord Senior Citizens Club. She has lived in the area for 40 years and formerly worked for the Contra Costa Times. To find out more about the Concord Senior Center, call (925) 6713320 or see the city’s website at concord.ca.us

ly in half rings ¼ c. rice wine vinegar ¼ tsp. sugar (more or less to taste) Pinch salt 1 T sesame seeds

You can also peel the regular cucumbers, but I think the skin adds a nice color contrast. Place all sliced vegetables in a bowl. Add remaining ingredients and toss gently. Chill or serve at room temperature as a light side dish.

Market, from page 6

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 B EV B RITTON , Copy Editor J AY B EDECARRÉ, Sports Editor PAMELA W IESENDANGER , Administration, Calendar Editor S TAFF W RITERS : Peggy Spear, Pamela Wiesendanger, Jay Bedecarré

C ORRESPONDENTS : Cynthia Gregory, Kara Navolio, John T. Miller

PIONEER INFO

Note: Lemon cucumbers The Concord Farmers Market is in have tiny prickles on the skin Todos Santos Plaza Tuesdays & so they need to be peeled. Thursdays.

As a general rule, letters should be 175 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 E-mail.

Tel: (925) 672-0500 Fax: (925) 672-6580

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

CIRCULATION The Concord Pioneer is delivered monthly to 30,000 homes and businesses in 94518, 94519 and 94521. 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.

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.

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.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Both Pioneer newspapers welcome letters from our readers.

Clayton Fair Properties For Lease

Concord – Commercial Offices Active business complex featuring a variety of commercial businesses. Well maintained with friendly atmosphere. Excellent location including ample parking.

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 672-8787 or stop in at 6200 Center St., Clayton.

Keeping home safe during vacations

home, here are a few tips for keeping your castle safe while you’re away. Make it appear as if someone is at home, both inside and out. Have your gardener or a neighborhood teenager mow the lawn to discourage trespassers. Lock all doors and windows and draw the drapes, but have a few lights on downCHrISTINE KOGuT stairs. Connect a television or SAVVY SENIOR radio to a timer you can access through an app on your phone. Summer is here, and it’s Tune to a news channel on low time to pack up your trunk, volume, and it will sound like trailer or motor home and hit quiet conversation inside the the road. house. Vary the times for the Get away to parts unknown or parts known – if you’re able. Little vacations or extended ones are good for the soul, but make sure your home is safe while you’re away. If you’ve noticed more • Serve with a platter of hang-up calls in the warmer cheeses, crackers, fruit and months, these aren’t necessariother pickles. ly wrong numbers. Some wily malefactors may be checking ASIAN CUCUMBER SALAD to see if someone is in the 2 large cucumbers, house. sliced thinly If you’re not fortunate 2 lemon cucumbers, enough to have a state-of-thepeeled and sliced thinly art security system in your 1 red onion, sliced thin-

Page 9

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SPORTS

Page 10

Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com

May 26, 2017

Spring sports climax at NCS, state meets JAY BEDECARRÉ Concord Pioneer

It’s been a record-breaking spring sports season with remarkable team and individual performances as the Diablo and East Bay athletic league seasons led into North Coast Section and State competition. Baseball- North Coast Section playoffs began this week with a strong local presence. Defending champion De La Salle lost to Granada in the East Bay Athletic League playoffs and got drawn against the Matadors in the first round at NCS. The Spartans, seeded fifth in Division I, hosted the Livermore school Tuesday. Should DLS win they might face crosstown rivals Clayton Valley Charter in the second round. The Eagles are seeded one spot above DLS in fourth and host Castro Valley Wednesday in their Section opener. CVCHS baseball has had a big season with the varsity, JV and frosh teams combining for a 63-8 record. The Ugly Eagles varsity was 22-2 in the regular season including winning the inaugural Diablo Athletic League Foothill Conference title, two games over Acalanes. The team started the

season with 18 straight wins including a title at the Alhambra Tournament. De La Salle won Section last year and the Spartans have taken three of the last five NCS crowns. DLS lost to Granada 43 in eight innings in the league playoffs. The EBAL was so strong six league teams are among the 16-team DI bracket including top seed San Ramon valley. Northgate ended the CVCHS win streak at 18 and the Broncos are No. 2 seed in NCS Division II although they are traveling to El Cerrito for their first NCS game Tuesday. Concord is seeded ninth in D-II and visits No. 6 Alameda in the opening round. DAL team Berean Christian is fourth seed in D-V. The NCS playoffs continue through the finals June 2-3. Lacrosse- De La Salle faced off with a tough run of opponents to claim its fifth NCS lacrosse title since 2007. The Spartans beat DBAL rival Amador Valley 7-5 in the finals after beating another league foe Monte Vista 8-6 in the semis. Monte Vista was defending Division I NCS champion and have won the same number of Section titles as the Spartans.

Local high school athletes have been posting outstanding performances this spring. Sophomore track star Rayna Stanziano of Concord High won the DAL 1600-meter run by six seconds and is headed for the North Coast Section Meet of Champions at Cal this week. Kevin Snyder (24) has been smoking hot all season at the plate with a .463 average for Clayton Valley Charter as the Eagles racked up 22 wins in 24 games going into NCS. Junior Alexei Sancov of Concord won titles individually and on Northgate relays at NCS and State swimming championships.

After beating Las Lomas 120 in the first round of NCS DLS beat Marin Catholic 6-5 in the quarterfinals. Marin were threetime D-Ii titlists who were moved up to D-! this year.

3 Carondelet student athletes sign college commitments for the fall

Jay Bedecarré

Carondelet High School delayed its spring national letter of intent signing ceremony because of the Easter holiday but recently feted three student athletes who made their college commitments. Volleyball player Shannon Stoller (left) committed to Linfield College in Oregon, Sarah Takahashi (center) signed with Wesleyan University in Connecticut to play ice hockey and cross country and track and field runner Emma McCarthy signed with Saint Mary’s College. Stoller will compete this summer for Team USA in the United World Games. Takahashi was captain of the San Jose Jr. Sharks, which won the 19U AAA girls ice hockey national championship in April, becoming the top ranked team in the United States.

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CVCHS boys had their best season in several years and reached NCs where they lost to Granite Bay in the opening round. DAL school Campolindo both the boys and girls D-II lacrosse titles. Swimming & DivingNorthgate boys were fifth and the Bronco girls eighth in NCS swimming finals. Carondelet took seventh and De La Salle 11th for other local teams. On the girls side the top nine teams were from the DAL or EBAL. Junior Alexei Sancov was the leader for Northgate as he won the 200 and 500 freestyle races and helped three sophomore teammates to a pair of free relay wins. Connor Seip, Zach Ledesma and Andrew Rodriguez joined Moldovan Olympian Sancov in the relay wins. Rodriquez was fourth in the 100 backstroke and fifth in the 200 individual medley. At the State Meet, Northgate boys were second after winning both free relays with the same quartet and Sancov was the 200 free champion. Softball- The NCs playoffs began this week as well. Concord and Alhambra tied for the DAL Foothill title with 82 records. Concord is seeded third in D-II, hosting Ukish

Wednesday in the NCS opener. Alhambra has become a softball powerhouse while winning three consecutive Division II Section playoffs, prompting the Bulldogs to be reclassified to D-I this season where they are the fifth seed. CVCHS Eagles are at James Logan Tuesday in the first round of NCS as No. 9 seed in D-I. Carondelet and Northgate play Tuesday at Willow Pass Park in Concord in their NCS opener. Berean Christian is the No. 1 seed in D-I earning the Eagles a first-round bye. NCS softball playoffs conclude with the finals June 2-3. Boys Volleyball- Amador Valley continued an undefeated season with a four-set win over No. 2 seed De La Salle in the NCS D-I championship. De La Salle won three consecutive three-set matches. The semi-finals were an all-EBAL affair. The No. 5 Spartans started the NorCal tournament this week against Roseville. Concord won its NCS D-II opener before losing to eventual champion Campolindo. Berean Christian met the same fate with a first-round victory before losing to Bentley which went on to take D-III title. Track & Field- Track and field performers are ready for

the NCS Meet of Champions this week at Cal Berkeley with the top performers qualifying for the State Meet June 2-3 in Clovis at Buchanan High. Leading the way this spring as record setters have been Mikayla Scott of Carondelet in the sprints and Jeff Williams in the weight events, each racking up records and top NCS marks at their respective schools. Carondelet freshman Kelly Kern from Clayton set a new EBAL meet pole vault record with a mark of 12 feet, two inches below her season best that is No. 1 in NCS. The previous record holder was none other than her sister Katie Kern at 112. The older Kern is now a freshman at the University of Illinois. Williams made the first headlines of the season when we broke the 54-year-old Clayton Valley discus record in late February at the Stocking Super Seven Invitational meet at Diablo Valley College where he threw the discus 169 feet, 11 inches. It shattered the school’s previous best mark of 164-7 set in 1963 by Ken Cole when Clayton Valley High was five-yearsold. Making that look like child’s

See Spring, page 12

Sunrise Bistro donation sends 25 Mt. Diablo High School players to Stanford football camp

Photo courtesy Mt. Diablo High School football

Sunrise Bistro owner Joe Stein (center holding check) donated $5000 to the Mt. Diablo High School athletic department that enabled 25 Red Devil football players who maintained a C or better classroom semester average to attend a two-day football camp at Stanford University this month. New head football coach Vontre Mason (left with check) and long-time MDHS long-time assistant coach Lupe Ontiveros accepted the donation on behalf of the Concord school.

May 26, 2017

Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com Bronco varsity swimming team prompted her to join the Aquabears for additional training. Both her medley and freestyle relay teams were third in the new, ultra-competitive Diablo Athletic League and then was sixth in the medley and fifth in free relay at North Coast Section. A freestyle sprint specialist, McGowan took fifth in the 50 free and 14th in the 100 at NCS. She capped her high school career at the recent State meet as part of a school record medley relay team. The Broncos 200 free relay took 15th at State. She will be majoring in pre-biology geared towards the full major of marine biology at UCSB.

Athlete Spotlight

Bryn McGowan

Grade: Senior School: Northgate High Sports: Swimming, Soccer

Northgate High School has a long history of an outstanding aquatics program. Coach Jeff Mellinger says that senior McGowan is “one of the best relay anchors I’ve ever coached. Always been a super hard worker.” That’s high praise for a coach whose boys were the first-ever CIF State swimming champions two years ago. McGowan would have been a long-

shot for such accolades after spending most of her sports time playing soccer from house league at a young age all the way up to premier level with Walnut Creek Soccer Club. However, after her sophomore soccer season she quit competitive soccer to concentrate on swimming, which she will continue to do next year at UC Santa Barbara. Her four years on the

The Concord Pioneer congratulates Bryn 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.

Clayton Valley inducts Hall of Fame class No. 5 in ceremony for honorees Just like the four induction ceremonies before it Clayton Valley High School’s Hall of Fame ceremony last week celebrated the achievements of athletes, coaches and teams left their mark at the school over the past six decades. Even before the honorees were inducted into the Hall of Fame Steve Woodruff of the 1972 wrestling team led the audience in the CVHS School Song. Committee chairperson Herc Pardi said, “It was a great, spirited start of the program. The song lyrics are printed in the back of the program but many knew by heart.” Pardi was delighted that eight members of the 1960 CVHS baseball team were on hand for their induction, 57 years after their last game. Besides all the athletes and teams, the Community Leadership award went to Matt and Michele Hill who spent 10 years running the school’s boys lacrosse program. The couple spent even more time away from the field, games and practices helping raise funds for the program. After they retired from CVHS lacrosse in 2014 they left the team with over $40,000 to provide the nonfunded sport with a base to continue for many years. Besides lacrosse, the Hills served in leadership positions for the CVHS Athletic Boosters and helped in the effort to keep all high school sports going when the school district stopped funding them in 2009. Their sons Sean and Danny are grads of the school and now into their careers. Profiles on the inductees:

Doug Balough (Class of 1969, wrestling): He is the only Clayton Valley wrestler to ever win three league and North Coast Section championships. Over his three years on the Eagles varsity he lost only seven matches, none to a league or NCS opponent. His 74 wins over those three years included those perfect records in league and Section competitions. As a sophomore he was part of the team that not only won the Diablo Valley Athletic League and NCS championships but placed second at the State Meet. The team finished off a 30-match record dual meet streak that dated back to 1965, which earned them a place in the CVHS Athletic Hall of Fame two years ago. Balough was a team captain as a senior when he was also a member of the Senior Men’s Honor Society. He went to Chico State and spent 25 years with Wells Fargo Bank.

Page 11

Carondelet Cougars, De La Salle honor Athletes of the Year Michaela VanderKlugt of Concord was named Carondelet Senior Athlete of the Year after her performances on the Cougars basketball and softball teams this year. De La Salle recognized Jonathan Hackett of Clayton as its Athlete of the Year after he was part of the Spartan football, wrestling and rugby teams. VanderKlugt was second team all-EBAL basketball for the North Coast Section D1 championship team and also a starter on the Cougars softball team. Carondelet also named its Athlete of the Year (Mikayla Scott ‘17 track and field) and Scholar Athlete of the Year (Olivia Pereira lacrosse). Hackett saw his DLS foot-

Photo courtesy Carondelet High School

MICHAELA VANDERKLUGT

Photo courtesy De La Salle High School

JONATHAN HACKETT

ball and wrestling seasons end up at the State level. He rushed for over 500 yards and six touchdowns for the State finalist football team and earned honorable mention EBAL recognition. During the winter, he was EBAL and NCS wrestling champ and was one match away from placing at the State Meet at 170 pounds while winning 29 of 35 matches. In the spring he was a major contributor to DLS rugby.

Jason Rogers

The fifth Clayton Valley High School Hall of Fame class was inducted last week. Athletes being honored, included from left, Doug Balough, Mike Emry, Ryan Salazar, Heather Wallace Bock, Sharon York and Katie Beck Vegvary. going the State cross country meet four times as part of legendary CVHS teams that won team championship her junior year and taking second when she was a sophomore and senior. Individually, she was 30th at State as a freshman, then third, fifth and fourth in the next three years. She was even more successful in NCS where she was two-time winner of the Meet of Champions while her team won three successive championships. Her running exploits won Wallace numerous other team, school, league and East Bay honors. On the track she set records and won league and NCS titles. She capped her high school career as the school’s athlete of the year and a Top 100 Bay Area Athlete. In the classroom, she was CVHS and NCS scholar athlete and won the CIF Female Scholar-Athlete of the year award and scholarship in 1996.

1987 CVHS athlete of the year was a three-sport standout. His Eagles football teams were first or second in DVAL as he was the first team all-league placekicker two years and first team all-East Bay, Bay Area and State as a senior. He set school records for longest field goal (45 years) and most career FGs (17) as his teams went deep in the NCS playoffs. His final high school football game was in the Contra Costa-Alameda all-star game. He was league tennis singles runner-up as a senior and wining DVAL #3 singles as a junior. He was all-tournament at Bishop O’Dowd as a senior soccer player and was unanimous allleague choice and team MVP. He played football at Brown University and won numerous journalism and educational awards after CVHS.

Ryan Salazar (1999, diving and wrestling): The greatest male diver ever at the school, Salazar was a varsity team captain four years. He won the league diving championship three times and took second the other year. He was first twice, second and firth at NCS as an individual. He was all-State twice and all-America as a senior. On the wrestling mat he won 71 varsity matches. Not one to sit around, Salazar also played on CVHS football, baseball and water polo teams. He was on the honor roll eight times and earned 11 NCS scholar athlete awards. He was the sixth ranked diver in California and 48th in the United States by the US Diving Association after competing in meets throughout the Western United States. He attended Cal Berkeley after CVHS, which he capped his career as 1999 male athlete of the year.

Mike Emry (1974, cross country, track and field): He set school records on the track as well as winning league and NCS championships and helping is cross country team to a secondplace finish in NCS his sophomore season. Emry won DVAL cross country and track championships his senior year that climaxed with a State Meet appearance in the mile as a senior. Like Wallace, he still holds the school record in the 3200. He set the school one-mile record as a freshman and had dropped the mark by 26 when he graduated. Emry was first team All0East Bay and send team all-NorCal cross country as a senior when he won league. He was co-athlete of the year as a senior in 1974 and was also the Elks Club Teenager of the Year and CSF sealbearer. He competed in track and cross Katie Beck Vegvary country as UC Davis and finished eighth in the 1979 Bay to Break- (1995, volleyball, softball, Heather Wallace Bock swimming, track, water ers. (1996, track and cross counpolo): She earned six varsity lettry): She earned seven varsity Lealand Rowland (1987, ters and did that in an incredible letters running for the Eagles tennis, football, soccer): The five different sports. The versatile

athlete competed in track and field only as a senior and was able to win the league and NCS discus championship and took seventh at State. She was also first in shot put at league and third at NCS. Water polo was the only sport where she took two varsity letters and as a senior set school records in goals scored and ejections drawn in a season, marks that still stand. She was MVP of the NorCal tournament and third team all-America. She as the schools 1995 athlete of the year and also earned numerous NCS distinguished scholar athlete wards. She was all-America water polo at Diablo Valley College after CVHS. She was on the 1996 USA Pan American water polo team. Continuing to explore sports she was on the BYU rugby team.

Sharon York (1980, basketball, volleyball, softball): She is no stranger to the CVHS Hall of Fame. York’s first induction class was with the 1976 North Coast Section volleyball team and then in 2015 with the 1977 volleyball team which defended its NCS title. This year she is going in for her own individual achievements and as part of the NCS finalist 1978 softball. Her CVHS volleyball teams were four-time DVAL and three-time NCS titlists. She was first team all-league twice and Oakland Tribune player of the year as a senior. Her senior basketball Eagles were DVAL round robin champs as she averaged a double double. Her sophomore year she was on the NCS finalist softball team that won 20 games. Coach Dennis Bledsoe (aquatics): “The Godfather” of the school’s aquatics program has been a fixture at CVHS for over 50 years, interrupted only for a year at his alma mater, Fresno State, and then coaching water polo at Cal with the leg-

See Hall of Fame, pg 12

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Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com

May 26, 2017

Mad consequences equals Big Bummer for Giants’ lefty “Be prepared to face the consequences of your actions.” That’s the advice that parents all over the world give their children. However Giants’ star pitcher Madison Bumgarner did not take it seriously. The man they call MadBum was injured in a dirt biking crash in Colorado on an off day early this season. He made a careless decision that he will have to live with for a long time. As a result of this crash, Bumgarner injured his ribs and severely damaged the AC joint in his left (throwing) shoulder. There are two extensive side effects that sprout from this accident. One is shortterm and one is long-term. The short-term effect hurts the San Francisco Giants. They

superstar. In no way does this automatically eliminate them from playoff contention; they still have a very good team that made the postseason last October. The Giants have experienced this before. They lost Buster Posey to a season-ending leg injury in May of 2011. San Francisco could not recovJACOB SAMUELS er without him, missing the SPORTS TALK playoffs that Fall despite winning the World Series in the are without their unquestioned years before and after Posey’s best player for at least two injury. It is not impossible to months. As someone who win without MadBum, but all watches more than his fair share of sports, I know that a return by the All-Star Game break in mid-July may be optimistic. The Giants will play at least half their season without their

Hall of Fame, from pg 11

endary Pete Cutino. Bledsoe’s involvement with the school began in the classroom where he’s taught numerous subjects to generations of Clayton Valley students. He was responsible for building “from the bottom up” the Eagles girl’s swimming program as well as the boys and girls water polo teams. The list of league champions and NCS teams and athletes is too numerous to mention. He’s had swimmers earn all-America designations and is one of three coaches from the school to be named NCS Honor Coach of the Year (water polo 2003), the highest honor bestowed by the Section. He was also the 2007 MDUSD Coach of the Year.

Spring, from page 10

play, Williams increased the school and now NCS record to 205-7 last month as he broke the 42-year-old Section record set back in 1974. The Ugly Eagles senior ranked in the top five in America with that huge throw at the Arcadia Invitational. Recently he’s battled some niggling injuries and a slight drop in form but still qualified first in both events at the DAL qualifying meet last Saturday with senior teammate Jack Fouts second in the discus and third in the shot.

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Scott has set and re-set Carondelet school records in the 100 and 200 meters. She’s No. 1 in NCS in the 200, second in the 100 and fourth in the 400. She trades places at the top of the 100 and 200 Section ladder with Kaylah Robinson of El Cerrito. She also is part of the topranked 4x100 Cougar relay team. CVCHS’s junior Aidan Jackman is second in the 110 and 1960 Baseball: The second 300 hurdles and fourth in the varsity season for CVHS baseball high jump, just below co-leader was very special as the team won the Diablo Valley Athletic League and teammate Daylon Hicks.

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of the Giants’ lofty preseason expectations may be undone because of one poor decision. The long-term effect to Bumgarner’s injury is something he may pay the price for. Number 40 in black and orange is an absolute stud. Entering his eighth full season in the majors, he already has 1,409 strikeouts, a WAR (Wins Above Replacement) of 30.6 and a career ERA of 2.99. As a comparison, maybe the best Giants pitcher of all time, Juan Marichal, finished his 15-season Hall of Fame

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championship. Coach Vic Petreshene note that his team had to battle “wind, rain, illness and injuries” to take the league title. Only one senior was in the Eagles starting lineup and three sophomores manned infield positions. CVHS won its last seven game including one over perennial power Mt. Diablo for a

ist and CVHS was 15th. AS one of the team members said, “We had both a fun and very successful year for all who were lucky 13-2 league and 16-3 overall enough to a part of it.” record. They defeated Eat Bay Division champ Alhambra 6-2. 1978 Softball: Clayton ValThis was only the second year of ley was one of the first schools to varsity baseball at Clayton Valley, fully embrace girls athletics after which opened in 1958. Frank the passage of Title IX in 1972. Snyder, who started in high The Lady Eagles had dominated school at Mt. Diablo, was a two- Girls Athletic Association sports time all-DVAL player and had a in the 1960s and 70s. Larry 6-1 pitching mark including a Fogelstrom had taken over the no-hitter and led the team with Eagles softball program as the 15 RBI. Junior Austin Deaton and hand-picked successor to Dee soph Bud Beemer were other all- Billeter in 1977. His first team league standouts. Another soph, won league and advanced to the Ryan Bowerbank, was the team’s NCS-sanctioned Acalanes Tourmost improved player. nament. In 1978 NCS finally sanctioned a true Section softball 1972 Wrestling: Even championship. The incentive of though the team lost a pair of getting into this competition ralDVAL dual matches (each by two lied the Eagles from two early points) the Eagles of coaches league defeats to 10 straight Glen Scrimger (varsity) and Bill DVAL victories and 14-2 champiNelson (JVs) rallied to take the onship record and then a 6-5 league tournament and then victory over College Park in the “shocked” the Bay Area by win- title game. The team defeated ning the NCS championships by three straight league champs to 19 points over #1 ranked Del reach the first-ever NCS finals Valle of Walnut Creek. League before falling in the finale. Shortchamps were Gil Martinez, Jerry stop Starry Suttich was the player Hatch and Doug Nelson while of the year before there was an Eagle teammates Steve Kikuchi, official all-league team. Jeff Stollberg and Jim Wilhite. Hatch won gold, Martinez silver 1994 Girls Swimming: In and Kikuchi bronze at NCS. Bill 1993 CVHS girls lost the North Duncan and Nelson were fourth. Coast Section team champiAt State, Hatch was silver medal- onship by one point. A year later

Sports Shorts CONCORD AYSO BEGINS

FALL SOCCER SEASON REGISTRATION

Concord AYSO where "Everyone Plays” is hosting open registration for its fall soccer season this Saturday, May 13, from 10 a.m.–3 p.m. all at Concord Bible Church, 4975 Concord Blvd. Fees for fall season (Aug. 1-Nov. 5) are $175. Register by May 13 for a $50 discount. Visit concordayso.org for more info.

RED DEVILS GOLF CLASSIC RETURNS JUNE 23

The Red Devil Golf Committee is holding its 22nd annual Red Devils Golf Classic on Friday, June 23, at Diablo Creek Golf Course in Concord. Proceeds help athletic and academic programs at Mt. Diablo High School. Registration starts at 11 a.m. followed by lunch, 1 p.m. shotgun start, dinner and raffle/silent auction. For more information contact Lou Adamo (212-9332 or louadamo@gmail.com) or Ralph Vallis (825-7593 or rv76667@aol.com).

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He will forever have to listen to the almosts and the what-could-have-beens for his career. If he does not make the Hall of Fame, people will point to this injury as THE reason why. No matter what he does, he will not be able to shake the comparisons to his pre-injury self. Madison Bumgarner’s dirt bike went off the tracks April 20. Hopefully his career did not do the same.

Email any comments or questions to sports@concordpioneer.com.

coach Tom Sparks and assistant Dennis Bledsoe left no doubt as they were84 points ahead of runner-up Northgate at NCS. Freshman Kasey Harris won two events while the Eagles 400 free and 200 medley relay teams won NCS titles. The Section championship came a week after the team edged to the league championship by over 100 points. To this day, the team holds four individual records and three school relay marks. The team posted 16 all-America times. Emily and Hilary Plummer, Jessica Chisholm Kristen Heck and Traci Benton were top performers at league and Section.

1994 Girls Water Polo: Head coach Dave Borland said the 1994 water polo team was “loaded with outstanding athletes.” The team won 21 matches, a school mark tied twice since. The Eagles won the regular season and Mountain Bay Athletic League tournament championships. The lost by one goal to Carondelet in the NCSsanctioned North Bay/East Bay championship game. Team captain Katie Beck was the event’s co-MVP while her teammates Gina Czibok, Allison Chesterman and Tyanna Neil were selected to all-tournament teams.

CLAYTON VALLEY FOOTBALL CAMP JUNE 13-16

Two-time State championship finalist and Northern California Bowl winner Clayton Valley Charter High School hosts its Future Champions Youth Football Non-Contact Camp June 1215 from 5-8 p.m. at Gonsalves Stadium on the Concord school campus for players in second through eighth grades. Camp Director Michael Dominquez and Eagles head coach Tim Murphy explain that the camp has individual and group instruction (including safer blocking and tackling technique) and team competition with fundamentals and techniques of football taught by the CVCHS staff. To register, email coach.dmngz@gmail.com or visit claytonvalleyfootball.com.

DE LA SALLE HIGH SUMMER CAMPS OFFERED ALL SUMMER

De La Salle High School will host athletic camps for Championship Football Camp, basketball, track and field, lacrosse, wrestling, volleyball, baseball, water polo, swimming, soccer, rugby and strength and conditioning. The camps are open to boys and girls incoming from kindergarten to ninth grades. For complete information call (925) 288-8100 ext. 7090 or email summercamps@dlshs.org. Registration is open now at dlshs.org (athletic tab).

Concord High School is looking for 2017-18 varsity girls tenCONCORD COBRAS FOOTBALL SIGNUPS nis, JV girls water polo, varsity boys water polo, varsity girls basNOW TAKEN ONLINE ketball and varsity boys tennis coaches. Send resume and referConcord Cobras tackle football program is taking signups for ences to AD Megan Coddington at coddingtonm@mdusd.org. its fall season online. The football program is open for youth five Stipends available. Coaching requirements include MDUSD Fin- to 14 years of age. For info email concordyouthfootball@gerprints, Current TB test, First Aid/CPR, Sudden Cardiac yahoo.com or visit concordyouthfootball.com. Arrest and Concussion certification through NFHS.

3 BASEBALL CAMP SESSIONS AT CLAYTON VALLEY THIS JUNE

It could be a virus, or it could just need a tune-up.

career with 2,303 strikeouts, a WAR of 63.1 and a career ERA of 2.89. This is more than just comparable; Bumgarner’s numbers are arguably better. In addition, Bumgarner is only 27. Marichal still had six all-star appearances and three top-10 MVP finishes left in his career when he was 27. However, Bumgarner may never get to see what his peak would have been. He might come back next season and be an all-star, but it is hard to imagine he will be as dominant.

Clayton Valley Charter High School coach Casey Coakley has put together a staff of current CVCHS coaches and players as well as Eagle alumni to provide baseball instruction to youngsters 5-12 years of age. The summer baseball camp will consist of instruction in the fundamentals of hitting, throwing, fielding, catch play and other aspects of the game. Summer baseball school sessions will be held at the school June 12-15, June 19-22 and June 26-29. Each daily session runs 8:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. To reserve a baseball school spot or to get more information email uglyeaglesbaseball@gmail.com.

DIABLO FC OFFERING PLAYER EVALUATIONS

REGISTRATION OPEN FOR ALL OUT SPORTS LEAGUES PROGRAMS

Summer programs for youth basketball and volleyball offered by All Out Sports Leagues in Clayton are taking registration online. For complete information on All Out Sports programs, visit alloutsportsleague.com.

CLAYTON VALLEY JR. EAGLES CHEER, FOOTBALL SIGNUPS ONLINE

Clayton Valley Jr. Eagles football program is open to players 7-14 years of age. Cheer programs begin for five-year-olds through 14. Visit cvaajreagles.com for more info and to register.

UGLY EAGLES HOST 3 BASKETBALL CAMPS IN JUNE

Head coach Eric Bamberger and his Clayton Valley Charter High School coaches and players are offering a pair of Ugly Eagles Basketball Camps in June for boys and girls. The two sessions for incoming second through eighth graders are June 1216, June 19-23, and 26-30. Sessions run from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. with the gym open an hour before and after the formal camp for pickup play. The camp includes offensive and defensive instrucMDSA REGULAR FALL REGISTRATION ENDS JUNE 18 tion and games. For more information and to register contact Boys and girls 4-18 years of age wanting to play in Mt. Diablo coach Bamberger by phone (925) 726-9999 or email uglyeaglebSoccer Association fall league can register for guaranteed place- ballcamp@att.net. ment until June 18. After that date the fees increase by $40 per player. Fall league play begins in August when all registration PIONEER WANTS TO PUBLISH YOUR SPORTS NEWS closes. Families are requested to sign up for volunteer duties to Please let us know about your sports news, special events, help the organization offer its AYSO program. For complete fund raisers, tryouts, signups and accomplishments. Send an information visit mdsoccer.org. email to sports@concordpioneer.com. Formal tryouts for Diablo FC under 8 through U19 competitive teams (birth years 1999-2011) have concluded but coaches are still holding player evaluations. Visit diablofc.org to get more information and signup for the appropriate age group evaluation.

All-white decor can be bold, elegant

May 26, 2017

Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com

JENNiFER LEiSCHER

DESIGN & DÉCOR

It’s easy to be swept up into the lusciousness of an allwhite living space as you peer through home decor magazines and websites. There’s something incredibly chic and elegant – even daring and outrageous – about this monochromatic setting. An all-white living space is not for the faint of heart. There are many deterrents: furry, four-legged family members, kids with crayons and playground sand, red wine, white wine, a super dark wash on skinny jeans. But don’t let these obstacles keep you from your vision

Keep an all-white color scheme from looking sterile with touches of neutral tones.

of loveliness. If an all-white living space is your goal, then so be it. Many home furnishings retailers have focused on using outdoor fabrics inside. These synthetic fabrics hold

up well and are typically easy to clean with mild dish soap. Consider using outdoor fabrics for anything from upholstery and area rugs to pillows and even drapery. Many outdoor fabrics have

the texture of natural fibers like cotton and linen, so you can achieve a cozy look while enjoying the reassurance that these synthetic fibers can be easily cleaned and will stand the test of daily wear and tear.

silk can be stronger than steel. And that’s the silk that held my accidental passenger in place. Crab spiders are ambush hunters that don’t spin webs but instead wait for insects to come to them. My companion was probably a Goldenrod crab spider, which typically hides on flowers until an insect lands within its grasp. Not long ago on Mount Diablo, I saw a robust bumblebee dangling like a yo-yo from a yellow fiddleneck flower on a barely visible thread. It took me a moment to see the crab spider at the other end. Spider silk, delicate in appearance and yet incredibly strong, secured the bee and also anchored the spider to its perch on the petal. Scientists see many potential uses for spider silk, such as extremely strong (even bullet proof) clothing, ropes, nets and parachutes. It’s a tough, lightweight, natural fiber that can suture a wound and guide the regrowth of a damaged nerve. The list of practical applications is long. The million dollar question is how to mass produce this amazing thread. Unfortunately, the silkworm model does not apply to spiders. The silk we are most familiar with is harvested from cocoons spun by silkworms raised in large num-

ber on farms. Spiders, on the other hand, are highly territorial and do not get along in group settings. Scientists have found ways to genetically reproduce spider silk, with varied degrees of success. In the meantime, my travel

When you’re working all in white, or whites with undertones of ivory, taupe and wheat, the key is to incorporate several textures to bring depth to an all-white landscape. Consider a smooth, silky velvet, a tightly woven or chunky linen, a smooth or distressed leather, or a thick and cozy chenille weave for any upholstered pieces. For floors, look for a wool or synthetic shag, or a natural woven jute and seagrass area rug with a leather or canvas border. This lovely bouquet of layers keeps things interesting, so you have many points of interest instead of a flat, monochromatic field. For walls or focal points like a fireplace, opt for polished stone, textured tiles and stain-painted surrounds. Even though you may love the all-white setting you’ve created, your living space still needs a bit of color. Stained

Spiders really do have a super power

CRAB SPIDER

A tiny hitchhiker accompanied me on a recent morning commute into San Francisco. It was a pearly-white crab spider, common to our open spaces and gardens. It posed on the back bumper as if waiting for prey to cross its path, the same as it would on a flower or leaf. My dime-sized traveler probably wandered onto my car, which was parked outside overnight, and then held tight during the drive across the Bay. It’s an impressive feat, but not surprising considering the spider possesses one of the strongest substances known to man: spi-

Luc Viatour

der silk. Spiders make several kinds of silk to serve a variety of purposes. Sticky silk captures prey, while stiffer silk cocoons egg sacs. Some threads are trailed behind as guides that provide a silken pathway home or, when coated with pheromones, to lure a potential mate. Burrows are lined with silk, and baby spiders parachute away on buoyant strands like so many eight-legged kites. Then there’s dragline silk, which is the safety line that secures a spider to its web. Weight-for-weight, dragline

Mother shares how biking can bring perspective

HOURiG AYANYAN MCCRAY

BIKE CONCORD

I had my first bike at the age of age 5, and I can vividly remember how it felt to ride. Once the training wheels were off, it took many unsuccessful tries and falls before I could balance on my bike. Then, it felt like I was elevated in the air – flying through the wind like a bird.

I remember the first time I rode all the way to the end of the street by myself. As I pedaled, my whole world expanded and a feeling of pure joy and freedom swept over me. I didn’t ride consistently over the years, but that feeling came back every time I got back on my bicycle. After I had my son in 2013, my world turned upside down. The transition to motherhood was wonderful in many ways, but it had many challenging moments that left me unprepared. My single, independent lifestyle was a thing of the past, and now I had this wonderful human being that demanded so much of my time, energy and affection. With sleep deprivation, feed-

See Biking, page 14

companion is back in my garden where it belongs – probably tucked inside a flower waiting for its next meal.

Jenn Roe is a docent at Mount Diablo Interpretive Association. Email her at jennroejkr@gmail.com

Page 13

wood, with a light or dark finish, in the form of flooring, cabinetry or accent pieces like a dining room table, entry armoire or TV console adds a perfect framework for the allwhite backdrop. Having these stained pieces will make the all-white living space even more serene, because the wood contrasts the white field. Also consider metal accents such as side tables, accessories and lamp bases. Metal finishes like oil-rubbed bronze, satin nickel, polished chrome and even polished brass are all perfect to incorporate into an all-white setting. A flat or polished sheen adds just the right amount of sparkle and light. Jennifer Leischer is the owner of J. Designs Interior Design based in Clayton. Contact her with questions, comments and suggestions at jenna@j-designs.com.

JENN ROE

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Women striving to make our world better Page 14

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Soroptimist International of Diablo Vista honored five women, at the annual Women of Distinction luncheon. Clayton woman, Sonja Wilkin has been at the forefront of bringing the “village movement” to Clayton and parts of Concord for four years. Clayton Valley Village is an organization mainly for seniors, many of whom are not ready to sit on the sidelines. Residents have come together as volunteers to help village members stay independent and in their own homes. The volunteers help with driving, handyman jobs, tech assistance, occasional pet care and friendly visits in person or by phone. The Soroptimists select one honoree as Woman of the Year. This year it’s Jane Streich, for her volunteer service with St. Vincent de Paul. She is most proud of the group’s special assistance program, which has helped hundreds of people in desperate situations from rent or utility assistance, to getting a family in a motel for a few nights or arranging donated furniture deliveries. Ana Villalobos received an award for her role with Healthy Eating and Active Living (HEAL). While employed with the non-profit Monument Impact from 2012-’16, she directed Kaiser Permanente’s Concord-area

ry title officer for Old Republic Title Company, has spearheaded two charitable drives at her company for 10 years.

In October, she oversees the food drive competition between the Solano County and Contra Costa operation. Then in November, she leads Old Republic’s toy drive in conjunction with the Salvation Army. Denise Koroslev’s volunteer work with her son’s school enabled her to discover Rodgers Ranch, and she joined efforts to revive the historic site in Pleasant Hill. For the past 20 years, she has helped restore the 1800s farmhouse and make the site relevant in today’s world. After heading up heritage programs for school children, she became president of Rodgers Ranch Heritage Center in 2004. The group also awarded three scholarships for a total of $2,800 at the March event at the Contra Costa Country

Club. Brittany Ayala, winner of the Live Your Dream Award, is a single mother working to complete two associate degrees: political science and history. She is the first in her family to graduate from high school and the first to go to college. Marie Broman Award recipient Oriana Morris is a freshman at Diablo Valley College. The single mother has a strong sense of her goals and how to achieve them. Throughout high school, Violet Richardson Award winner Joanne Magano spent a lot of time volunteering for organizations such as the Monument Crisis Center, St. Anthony’s and the Contra Costa Public Defender’s Office. Last summer, she interned at the Public Defender’s Office.

hardly make it three short miles. I almost gave up. It took many tries before I felt comfortable on my new bike. With time, I slowly started enjoying my rides and that feeling of pure joy and freedom came rushing back. My legs got stronger, and I was no longer trying to catch my breath. One ride led to a moment of total bliss. My senses were at full capacity – from hearing the crunch-

ing of the leaves underneath my tires and the birds chirping, to breathing the fresh air deeply and feeling the contours of my city and every elevation change. These moments of total mindfulness allowed me to deal with the challenges in my life. With each ride, I was able to push my pedals one extra rotation faster. Riding in nature allowed me to clear my head and see things more

clearly. If I can encourage one woman to make that leap of faith and take a bike ride on the trails we are fortunate to have in Contra Costa County, I will be glad I wrote this article.

Sarah Mero

Soroptimist international of Diablo Vista name five Women of Distinction: Teri Gallagher, Sonja Wilkin, Denise Koroslev, Jane Streich and Ana Villalobos.

HEAL. The devoted nurse donations to foster a wellness and chef educator brought in movement for low-income more than $1 million in grant neighborhoods. funding, sponsorships and Teri Gallagher, an adviso-

Biking, from page 13

ings and diaper changes, my world shrank down to myself, my baby boy and my husband. The transition to parenthood was not an easy task by any means. Almost two years later, my husband suggested we purchase new bikes to get back

into physical fitness. That was one of the best decisions we made. In all honesty, it wasn’t easy to get back into riding. Caring for a toddler took a lot out of me, and my energy levels were at their lowest. On our first ride, I could

May 26, 2017

Hourig Ayanyan McCray is a guest columnist. Send questions and suggestions for future Bike Concord columns maryam@bikeconcord.org

Engaging characters in trilogy of novels Summer is around the corner, and I’ve found a series of books that would be a terrific addition to any family’s summer reading stash. Three novels by Maile Meloy, “The Apothecary,” “The Apprentices” and “The After-Room,” offer strongly written stories about two wonderful and bright young characters that readers of any age should find entertaining. “The Apothecary” introduces 14-year-old Janie Scott and another teen, Benjamin Burrows, the son of a British apothecary. At the core of all three novels is the apothecary’s ancient book, the Pharmacopoeia. The setting is 1952 London, and the Scott parents are TV writers seeking refuge from the House Un-American Activities Committee. Meloy takes a significantly bad tasting piece of the American pie and serves it up with chemical mystery and high adventure in the Cold War years. It’s history made new and remembered for both kids and parents. The novel ends

SUNNY SOLOMON

BOOKIN’ WITH SUNNY

with Janie returning to the States and sorely missing her good friend Benjamin. “The Apprentices” takes place when Janie is 16 and attending a private school in the States. She continues to study chemistry and hopes to find a way to communicate mentally with Benjamin, who is somewhere in war-torn Vietnam with his father, the apothecary. Once again, science is a key factor and no matter how fantastical the adventures, Meloy makes the reader believe every turn and twist of the plot.

The teens devise a potion to communicate, mentally and visually, and world politics and the nuclear race draw them together again. The budding romance between the teens becomes more focused in “Apprentices.” The story ends with the tragic death of the apothecary and Benjamin’s move to the United States to live with the Scotts. The magic and elixirs of Meloy’s novels heighten in “The After-Room,” a place where Benjamin tries to speak to his father – who hasn’t fully inhabited the afterlife, where his beloved wife (who died when Benjamin was young) awaits. The teens are back on the world scene. In light of today’s headlines, the rising powers of China, North Korea and the United States bring a chill to the reader. Meloy’s cast of characters are so believable that the reader buys it all, whether the characters are changing their molecular makeup or outwitting those who want the mysteries contained in the Phar-

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macopoeia. The novels give readers a foretaste of our 21st century. Meloy captures the hearts and minds of maturing Janie and Benjamin, and her treatment of family relationships, death, fear, loyalty and hope is sympathetically realistic. Meloy’s characters have depth, in their strengths and

weaknesses, that has already caused me to reread the first two books. Put all three on your reading list. I promise you won’t be disappointed. Sunny Solomon is a freelance writer and head of the Clayton Book Club. Visit her website at bookinwithsunny.com for her latest recommendations or just to ‘talk books.’

‘Beauty’ a worthy effort that stops a little short of perfection

JEFF MELLiNGER

SCREEN SHOTS

Disney’s obsession with remaking their animated features into live-action shows no sign of abating. With half a dozen or more in the pipeline, Disney will fill their room of gold higher than Scrooge McDuck’s. In 2015, “Cinderella” was gorgeous and well-made, while 2016’s “The Jungle Book” was even better. Due to outstanding visual effects, the anthropomorphic animal characters were brought to spectacular life. The musical numbers were superb as well. This year’s “Beauty and the Beast,” directed by Bill Condon (“Twilight: Breaking Dawn” 1 and 2), melds the previous two efforts almost flawlessly. The story is simple: In order for his curse to be lifted, Beast must find love before all the petals fall from an enchanted rose. Angry at his fate, Beast

treats all who cross his path with disdain and a short temper. Belle is a simple, country girl, pursued by the chauvinistic Gaston. When her father, Maurice, goes missing, Belle travels far into the forest and finds him incarcerated by Beast. She gives herself up in exchange for her father’s freedom. The rest is a classic princess fairytale. In his “Twilight” films, Condon got valuable experience working with CGI-rendered characters. When it came time to create the Beast, Condon had the process down to a science. Dan Stevens filmed every one of Beast’s scenes twice. The first round was all from the neck down, on stilts, to get the body movements. For the second, Condon seated Stevens in front of a bank of cameras, his face covered in ultraviolet makeup, to film the facial material. Needless to say, Disney spared no expense when it came to making the effects perfect. The effects that created the other accursed characters in the Beast’s castle are also exceptional. The clock, teapot, wardrobe and the rest appear as if they truly belong in a live action film world. Acquiring established actors like Ewan McGregor, Ian McKellen and Emma Thompson was crucial in bringing these inanimate

objects to life. They bring immense talent and the right energy to scenes that could have otherwise been laughable. If a movie’s plot stops for a song and dance, it needs to be spectacular. Despite a couple standouts, most of the musical numbers are fine, if only serviceable. There just aren’t enough “plot-pushing” musical numbers to keep the rest of them from slowing the film down. The biggest drawback of the film is the Gaston character. Every Disney villain operates under the standard bad guy M.O., which is fine if they are written well. Luke Evans does a commendable job, but the character is so cliché that it is hard to overcome. He’s a one-note, sexist knucklehead who manages to be worse as live action than as a cartoon. For long-time fans of the story, seeing favorite scenes brought to life is more than enough of a reason to see the film. For those with only a minor affinity, the film is enjoyable but the flaws will stand out. B

Jeff Mellinger is a screen writer and film buff. He holds a BA in Film Studies and an MFA in film production. He lives in Concord. Email questions or comments to Editor@ConcordPioneer.com.

May 26, 2017

Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com

Page 15

For special occasions, look your best – and fit the mood

SUSAN SAPPiNGTON

CLOTHESUP

People often are unsure what to wear for a special occasion. Here is a guide to the modern dos and don’ts of proper attire. The occasion: A wedding. Old etiquette: Don’t wear white, black or red. New etiquette: Black and red are perfectly fine, but white is still the ultimate

wedding no-no. What to wear: Let the invitation, the season and the hour be your guides. For day weddings, which tend to be more casual, steer clear of anything heavily beaded or sequined. Opt for a knee-length dress in a material like cotton. In warmer weather, strapless styles and opentoed shoes get the nod of approval. If the ceremony is in the afternoon and the reception in the evening and the invitation doesn’t specify dress, assume the event is semiformal. This calls for a cocktail dress or an evening suit in a color that won’t upstage the bride. Pale pink is OK – hot pink is not. Black tie once meant floor-length gowns. At all but

the grandest affairs these days, dresses as short as knee-length are acceptable, provided they have a semiformal or formal cut and fabric. A silk or silk blend would be appropriate. Some houses of worship have strict rules about covering up, so check the protocol before wearing a strapless or sleeveless dress. Or bring a wrap. If you’re still at a loss and you’re close to the bride, ask her what’s right. Or consult the maid of honor or the bride’s mother. The occasion: A baptism, bar mitzvah or other religious ceremony. Old etiquette: Trot out the Sunday finery. Florals

See Clothes Up, pg 20

Both floral print dresses are appropriate for either a day wedding or a baptism. For a funeral, a navy blue suit is somber and respectful.

Artist’s life lesson: Listen to your inner self

WATERCOLOR OF DON SALVIO PACHECO SQUARE BY SHARON PETERSON

Growing up in Wisconsin, Sharon Petersen hated the gray winters and humid summers. She always wanted to live in California. Petersen suffers from depression and seasonal affective disorder, so climate has a significant impact on her life. Her husband’s job brought them to Clayton about 37 years ago, and it felt like home on the first day. If Petersen had listened to

P ETS

her instincts as a youth, she might have become an artist earlier. In high school, she enjoyed creative pursuits like sewing and screen printing. But her life took a path away from art as she married right after graduation and postponed college to raise a family. Now, she tells her grandson: “Pay attention to what interests you while you’re young, because it will play an important part in who you

become.” After a few years, she went back to school for her business degree and directed her creative drive toward a marketing career for 15 years. “I was doing what people said I should – being a good wife and mom, while working full-time. But I wasn’t really listening to myself. I enjoyed the creative aspects of my work, but most of it was stressful. I was part of a cutthroat corporate culture and, over time, it took a toll on my mental health.” Life took a serendipitous turn when she had a chance to work alongside the landscaper who was updating their backyard. He was impressed with her skills and said she had a knack for the work. Petersen went back to school again to earn a certification and spent the next 15 years as a landscape designer – a much healthier outlet for her artistic style. But when it was time to retire, depression took a stronger hold. Hopelessness and sadness became daily com-

panions; she knew she needed to do something creative sooner rather than later. “Being creative takes me out of my head, out of the realm of discomfort,” she says. “Anyone who deals with depression or chronic pain can benefit from art as therapy.” She tried watercolor and, of course, flowers were a natural go-to theme. Even though she hadn’t painted much before, she knew she could do it because of her design experience. She had learned about color and composition while producing marketing collateral, and she developed solid drawing skills while mapping out

garden plans. With positive feedback from her family, Petersen started producing prints and cards for sale. She never imagined she’d actually sell LiSA FULMER her work, but it didn’t take long for her to realize she had ARTS IN MOTION talent and that people liked her art. an artist feeds me and gives “Art saved my life … quite me purpose.” literally. Painting gave me To see Petersen’s work, strength to enjoy people visit SAPStudioDesigns.com. again, and I’ve developed Lisa Fulmer is a mixed media wonderful new friendships,” she notes. “Art has helped me artist, a small business marketing rebuild my confidence and consultant, and president of the self-esteem during retire- Concord Art Association. Visit ment, and it gives me the ConcordArtAssociation.com for desire to be productive. Being inspiration and information.

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Page 16

T HE ARTS

Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com

May 26, 2017

‘Don’t Mess with God’ a sure crowd-pleaser

rupted by a visit from Jesus. over her dead husband. It’s Gospel recording artist suspenseful until the very end. Mychael Monte-Q leads the For tickets, call 925-528powerful group of performers, 9225 or email info@orsvp.org. which also includes local resiMeanwhile, Town Hall dents. The show runs June 3-4 Theatre Company goes with at the California Theater, 351 SALLY HOGARTY witty and “Wilde” for its sumRailroad Ave., Pittsburg. There mer show. Oscar Wilde’s hilariSTAGE STRUCK is a $5 discount off each ticket ous “An Ideal Husband” runs until May 29. Tickets are availJune 1-24 at 3535 School St., If you’re ready for a foot- able at the theater box office, at Lafayette stomping, hand-clapping musi- www.pittsburgcaliforniatheOne of the more serious cal that will fill you with the atre.com or 925-427-1611. For of Wilde’s social comedies, Holy Spirit and then some, be more information, call 866“Husband” takes various sure to catch “Don’t Mess with 514-7250. institutions to task as well as God … He’ll Wash Your Feet.” If you support local playthe idea of an “ideal” mar“God” is the next play wrights and enjoy short comeriage and how public and perfrom Dennis Rowe, the pro- dies and dramas, don’t miss sonal morality can collide. ducer of “Port Chicago 50.” Onstage Theatre’s one-act The playwright’s wonderful Rowe intertwines his power- festival “Off the Shelf and on tongue-in-cheek dialogue ful story with Motown artist Stage.” The company has choprovides a plethora of laughStafford Floyd’s soul-stirring sen 15 short plays that will run ter as fate catches up to music. The two spin a tale of in three different time blocks politician Robert Chiltern a group of fraternity brothers through June 24 at the Campwhen a mysterious woman reuniting to pay tribute to bell Theatre, 636 Ward St., Michael Williams in “Don’t Mess with God . . .He’ll Wash Your Feet,” playing at the Calireveals a past misdeed. fornia Theater June 3 and 4. one of their own – only to Martinez. Tickets are available at 925have their celebration interPlays include J.D. Blair’s 283-1557 or www.townhallthe“Vincent,” a farce about a edy in an abandoned urban Amphitheatre, 28 Orinda atre.com. painter who has an unusual jungle rather than the tradi- Way. Sally Hogarty is well known way of mixing colors, and tional forest where displaced In Christie’s intriguing tale, Gary Carr’s “Jenny Gets Her people “breed connection a stranger finds himself lost in around the Bay Area as a newspaWheels On,” a musical story of from banishment, love from the English fog (of course) per columnist, theatre critic and an injured ingénue who finds tragedy and, ultimately, create and wanders into an English working actress. She is the editor of new ways to use her talent. (See community.” country house to find a the Orinda News. Send comments story this page). For tickets, call 510-548- woman, gun in hand, standing to sallyhogarty@gmail.com Performances are Thurs- 9666 or go to days-Sundays, with bargain www.calshakes.org. prices on Thursdays. Buy tickA little bit naughty but oh ets at the door or call 925-518- so nice is Center Repertory’s 3277. For a complete listing of upcoming production of shows, visit www.onstagethe- “Altar Boyz.” Full of sharp atre.homestead.com. parody, sinfully spectacular Cal Shakes begins its sum- dancing and irreverent humor, mer season with Shakespeare’s this spoof about a heavenly comedy “As You Like It,” run- guy-group includes a mix of ning through June 18 at the clever songs, lots of laughs and www.mellophoto.com beautiful Bruns Amphitheater, lighthearted fun for 90 minutes Front: Josh Ditto, Standing: Justin Sabino, Tyce, Sean Oku- 100 California Shakespeare of pure delight. Suitable for all ages, “Altar niewicz, William Hoshida in Center Repertory’s “Altar Boyz” Theater Way, Orinda. Director Desdemona Chi- Boyz” runs May 26-July 1 at running May 25 – July 1 at the Lesher Center in Walnut ang has set the romantic com- Walnut Creek’s Lesher Center, Creek. 1601 Civic Dr. Call 925-943SHOW or go to www.lesherartscenter.org. If you love a little suspense, take in Agatha Christie’s “The Stu Selland Unexpected Guest,” running Heather Kellogg, DC Scarpelli and Dana Lewenthal in “An June 2-July 1 at Orinda’s ideal Husband” coming June 1-24 at Town Hall Theatre in Community Center Park Lafayette

Clayton playwright in Onstage one-act festival SIDNEY FALCO Special to the Pioneer

In “Jenny Gets Her Wheels On,” Clayton resident Gary Carr takes comedy on a fourwheeled adventure. The play features a gravely injured musical theatre ingénue who must find a new way of using her talent. Jenny begins her career as an innocent, like Laurie in “Oklahoma.” But after an accident, she metamorphoses into a comedian like Sarah Silverman or Amy Schumer, Carr explains. “Jenny” is part of Onstage Theatre’s One-Act Play Festival at the Campbell Theater in Martinez. Kim Doppe directs, with a cast that includes Anne Baker, Siobhan O’Brien and Justin Hernandez. “Kim has cast three very flexible actors who are perfect

for the roles, especially Anne Baker, who plays Jenny. Anne had to master playing 90 percent of the show maneuvering around in a wheelchair,” Carr says in a shameful spoiler alert. Carr is expanding the show into a full-length play and has also written and published numerous short stories, plays and film scripts. He owns the publicity firm Rising Moon Marketing & Public Relations. The festival originated in Onstage Theatre’s former home at the Old School House in Pleasant Hill. This is the first performance in Martinez. Titled “Off the Shelf and On Stage,” the festival of 15 oneact plays runs through June 24. “Jenny Gets Her Wheels On” plays 8 p.m. June 2, 3, 8, 9 and 10 and 2:30 p.m. June 4.

Anne Baker plays the title role in “Jenny Gets Her Wheels On.”

636 Ward St., Martinez. A festival pass to see all shows is $40, or individual tickets are available. Visit onstagetheThe Campbell Theater is at atre.homestead.com.

Captain Grammar Pants

Are you one of those sadly mistaken people who writes and says “should of ” (would of, could of) instead of “should have” (would have, could have)? CEASE AND DESIST! English might have 28 different tenses (sorry, world!), but “should of ” isn’t one of them. It appears in English-language writing because of the way it is spoken in contraction form: should’ve. If you say “should’ve” out loud, it sounds like “should of.” Using that latter construction in written form signals the end of civilization as we know it. You should have paid attention to your teacher in second grade. Perhaps if you could have, you would have, but really, you should have. Sean Williams is a professor of ethnomusicology at The Evergreen State College in Olympia, Wash. She is currently working on a Captain Grammar Pants book. Follow her regular postings on Facebook.

May 26, 2017

Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com

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Thru November Hazel-Atlas Mine Tours Learn about the mining history and geology at Black Diamond Mines. Guided, 90-minute tour; Saturdays and Sundays. Must be age 7 or older with parent. $5 in advance online or day of at Sidney Flat Visitor Center. May 26 An Evening at Rose Hill Cemetery 6 – 8:30 p.m. Meet at Black Diamond Mines. Registration required.

Mount Diablo Interpretive Association programs listed are Thursdays free with the exception of park entrance fee. Go to Music and Market mdia.org and click on Event Calendar for more information. Thursday night live music and farmers’ market. Music: June 1, The Fundamentals; June 8, Native Elements. Market 4 – June 2 8 p.m.; music 6:30 – 8 p.m. Todos Santos Plaza, downtown Round the Mountain Concord. cityofconcord.org. Views in all directions. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Meet at Juniper Trailhead. 3rd Sundays Antique Faire June 11 Antiques, collectibles, handmade arts and crafts. 9 a.m. – 4 Snakes Alive p.m. Todos Santos Plaza, downtown Concord. Free admisDrop in to meet several local types of snakes. 10 a.m. – sion. concordantiquefaire.com. 2 p.m. Summit Museum.

On Sale Now Concerts The Concord Pavilion is located at 2000 Kirker Pass Road. See full concert schedule for 2017 at livenation.com. Upcoming shows: May 27, KBLX Stone Soul Concert, Saturday only, 12 p.m. May 28, Stone Soul, two-day ticket or Sunday only, 12 p.m. Jun. 2, Kidz Bop Tour, 7 p.m.

newsandcalendar@concordpioneer.com

June 8 – 25 “King Lear” One of Shakespeare’s greatest tragedies. B8 Theatre Company, 2292 Concord Blvd., Concord. $18-$22. b8theatre.org. (925) 890-8877. June 10 “A Taste of Me” Presented by Noel Anthony. 8:15 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $25-$50. lesherartscenter.org. (925) 943-7469. June 10 “Fifteen” The Danville Community Band’s season finale. 3 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $17. lesherartscenter.org. (925) 943-7469. June 11 “June Demonstration” Presented by The Ballet School. 11 a.m., 2 and 5 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $27. lesherartscenter.org. (925) 943-7469.

SCHOOLS

July 29 30th Reunion YVHS Class of 1987 reunites. 6 – 11 p.m. Blackhawk Auto Museum, 3700 Blackhawk Plaza Circle, Danville. $95. Go to Ygnacio Valley High Class of 1987 on Facebook or email yvhs1987@gmail.com.

FUNDRAISERS

Jun. 7, Chicago and The Doobie Brothers,

7:30 p.m.

Jun. 11, Spirit West Coast Concord, 3 p.m. Jun. 23, United We Rock Tour, 7 p.m.

May 27 Armed Forces Half Marathon 6:30 a.m. Todos Santos Plaza, downtown Concord. $90. Register: armedforceshalf.com.

May 27 - 29 KidFest Nonstop entertainment, plus free activities for kids. Food court and rides. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; closes at 5 p.m. on Memorial Day. Mount Diablo High School, 2450 Grant St. $6 with canned food donation for Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano; $7 without. kidfestconcord.com.

June 10 47th Annual Corvette Car Show Enjoy the finest examples of classic, custom and stock corvettes. 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. Todos Santos Plaza, downtown Concord. Free to the public; $40-$45 car entrants. diablovalleycorvettes.com.

IN CLAYTON

Saturdays thru Oct. 14 Farmers’ Market 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. 6095 Main St. pcfma.org.

May 27 Saturday Concerts in the Grove The Cheeseballs perform. 6 – 8:30 p.m. Grove Park, downtown Clayton. Free. ci.clayton.ca.us.

May 29 Memorial Day Observance Program to honor our lost heroes, sponsored by VFW Post 1525. 10 a.m. Veterans Memorial flagpole monument, Main and Oak Streets. Free. vfwpost1525.org.

June 17 Round-Up For Relay Barbecue, music, prizes. Sponsored by Relay For Life Clayton; benefiting the American Cancer Society. 6 – 10 p.m. Easley Ranch, 6995 Marsh Creek Road. $75. roundupforrelay.wix.com/home.

ON AND AROUND THE MOUNTAIN

Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve programs are available for registration through ebparks.org. Parking fees may apply. For additional information, contact Black Diamond Visitor Center at (510) 544-2750 or bdvisit@ebparks.org.

Save Mount Diablo’s Discover Diablo is a free public hike series. Go to discover-diablo.eventbrite.com for more information.

June 3 Lime Ridge Family Walk 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. Meet at Ohlone Trail Parking Area. Registration required.

June 10 Mangini Ranch Property Tour 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. Meet at hiker gate adjacent to 5318 Crystyl Ranch Drive, Concord. Registration required.

EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Thru June 24 “Off the Shelf and OnStage” A festival of one acts. Onstage Theatre at the Campbell Theater, 636 Ward St., Martinez. $16. onstagetheatre.homestead.com. (925) 518-3277. May 26 – 27 “Alice in Wonderland” Presented by Contra Costa Ballet Foundation. 7:30 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $38. lesherartscenter.org. (925) 943-7469. May 26 – 28 “Into the Woods, JR” Presented by Poison Apple Productions’ Apple Teens. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $20. lesherartscenter.org. (925) 943-7469. May 26 – July 1 “Altar Boyz” Spoof about a heavenly guy group. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $37 -$72. centerrep.org. June 2 – 3 “The Show 2017” Presented by Dance Fusion Company. 7 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $25. lesherartscenter.org. (925) 943-7469.

2nd and 4th Sundays Pancake Breakfast Veterans of Foreign Wars serve breakfast to the public: Eggs, pancakes, sausage, beverage. 8 – 11 a.m. VFW Post 1525, 2290 Willow Pass Road, Concord. $5, $3 children under 12. vfwpost1525.org. May 27 Baking for a Cure Bake sale for Relay For Life Clayton. 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. Starbucks, Clayton Station. relayforlife.org/claytonca. June 3 Plant Sale Plants selected for pollinators and tour of honey bee farm. 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Markham Regional Arboretum Society Nursery. 1202 La Vista Ave., Concord. Free admission. markhamarboretum.org.

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 (925) 646-5455. June 1: Origami, 4 p.m.

The Clayton Library is at 6125 Clayton Road. Programs are free unless otherwise noted. See full schedule of events at claytonlibrary.org or call (925) 673-0659. June 5 – Aug. 5: Summer Reading Program

for all ages.

June June June June

7: Kenn Adams’ Adventures in Space, 1 p.m. 12: Clayton Knits, 1:30 p.m. 12: Clayton Library Book Club, 7 p.m. 14: Wrap Animals Craft, 4 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 June 3 7 p.m. Council Chamber, Concord Civic Center, 1950 Concert By East County Performing Arts Center Show Choir. 11 a.m. Parkside Dr. cityofconcord.org. El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $15. elMeeting dates and times for local clubs and orcampaniltheatre.com. (925) 757-9500. ganizations are listed at concordpioneer.com. Click on ‘Links’

SCHOOLS

Page 18

Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com

May 26, 2017

‘15 Minutes’ is long enough to learn a life lesson

Vincent Del Monte

Congratulations on an amazing 4 years. You inspire and are loved by so many. We can't wait for you to begin your journey at Chapman. Life is just beginning! Love, Moo, Dad, & Dominic

I could feel my me, I could feel his heartbeat acceleratenergy take my ing, my hand was soul – leaving a shaking and I single rose on my couldn’t process a desk. As I rushed single word being behind him, I said. heard the distinct I peeked at the scream of my best window every few friend growing Aasim Yahya seconds, waiting. fainter, as if I were CONCORD HIGH Finally, I heard a truly leaving this CORRESPONDENT sharp scratching at world. the door and quickly glanced On Thursday, April 27, over to see the ominous grim 2017, I was killed by a drunk reaper standing in the corner driver while on a run with my of my AP psychology class- friend Nick Chavez. room. I stood up and dropped This is Every 15 Minutes, a my head as he approached my drunk driving prevention proseat. gram that simulates the death My body was moved to of 25 students. The process chills as my eyes held back begins in September with plantears. As he came up behind ning stages and student selections. Then, students begin to work with program director Nikki Debeaune and student retreat coordinator Diana Corkran. After several months of careful and secretive preparation, students are abruptly removed from their classes by the grim reaper. Following their exit, a police office and chaplain enter to report their deaths and recite their obituaries. Later that day, all juniors and seniors assemble at the football field to witness a simulated crash scene. This emotional and realistic depiction illustrates a drunk driving related accident, including • Pre-school real emergency personnel. Two crash victims are trans• Elementary ported to the hospital. One • Middle School, student is pronounced dead, • High School College and another is given a DUI 50 word message & photo test and arrested.

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Concord police joined other agencies and students in a staged a fatal crash in which a teen driver was arrested for drunk driving as part of the Every 15 Minutes program at Concord High last month.

While parents and friends mourn the loss of their loves ones, the students who are referred to as the “living dead” attend an overnight retreat. There, emergency personnel and other individuals talk about how they are affected by drunk driving. The most emotional part of the evening is hearing the chaplain explain how our parents reacted to our deaths. While we transitioned to the retreat, the chaplains went to our homes and delivered the tragic news. Despite knowing our involvement in the program, each parent was riddled with grief and heartache. As

night falls, we write letters to our parents sharing our final thoughts, emotions and regrets. The following day, upperclassmen attend their peers’ funeral, which includes a video explaining the events preceding the crash. The video features the students confessing regrets and reflecting on the consequences of their absences. The program concludes with the students emotionally reunited with friends and family. “I believe the program is very important because it challenges the students about the

effects of drinking while driving, distracted driving, personal safety, the responsibility of making mature decisions and the impact their decisions have on family and friends,” Corkran says. We must remember to make the right choices in life, as they will define the individuals we become. Learn from others’ mistakes; don’t wait to make your own.

When Netflix tribute to their released the original everyday life. The series “13 Reasons smallest mistake can Why” on March 31, make the biggest it was immediately impact.” immensely popular. The fictitious In its first week, it world of Hannah became the most Baker often goes tweeted about Nethand in hand with Alyssa Arino flix show of all time. the reality I have witCVCHS The story focus- CORRESPONDENT nessed in my own es on a high school school hallways. girl named Hannah Baker, Many of the situations Hanplayed by Katherine Langford, nah and the cast faced mirror who committed suicide. She real life – though never to the left behind 13 cassette tapes, intensity played out in the each targeted toward a specific show. person in her life and explainAn inappropriate picture ing what led her to do it. sent out at the beginning of a The show follows Clay school day has ended up on Jensen, played by Dylan Min- every student’s phone by nette, as he listens to the audio lunch, underage drinking and messages Hannah left behind. smoking does occur, and parHe is Hannah’s friend and one ents do neglect to pay attention of the people on the tapes. As to their children because the show progresses through its they’re caught up in struggles 13 episodes, the reasons of their own. become more dark and twisted. While it’s unlikely all of it Watchers were instantly would happen to one person in obsessed, with many getting such a short period of time through the entire series in a like it did to Hannah, the realday or two. They were desper- ness of them makes “13 Reaate to know more about the sons Why” that much more events leading up to Hannah’s raw. death. Based on a book by Jay The show has faced Asher, the show depicts heart- extreme controversy, with breaking and graphic examples some claiming it romanticizes of alcohol and drug abuse, suicide and mental illness – bullying, rape and suicide in a despite its intent to do the real and often shocking way. opposite. Some parents worry Because the story takes that presenting suicide and place within a high school revenge plots in such a blatant community, those involved in way in the media could protheir own real-life high schools voke teens to do something felt a connection to “13 Rea- similar. The response to the sons Why.” show and viewers’ reactions “We all have a part in some- have also been criticized, with one’s life,” says Clayton Valley some believing that many peoCharter High School junior ple are focusing on the wrong Teresa Martinez. “We don’t issues. know how big or little we con“The show has succeeded

in bringing about awareness, however, people are still missing the point,” says Lea Chinn, CV sophomore. “There are tons of (social media) posts about how cute Clay and Hannah were. Mental illnesses

aren’t supposed to be romanticized and relationships can’t

Aasim is a junior at Concord High. He currently serves as ASB President, Journalism Editor-InChief, and is a member of the CHS Cross Country team. Send comments to editor@concordpioneer.com

Netflix series ‘13 Reasons’ is compelling – and misunderstood

Alyssa Arino is a sophomore at CVCHS. She is on the school’s cross country team. Send comments to editor@concordpioneer.com

Lessons learned from ‘Hamilton’

Mount Diablo Isabelle’s video was High School has so chosen as the permany wonderful formance to send to students to celeGilder Lehrman. brate this month. I’ll From all the highlight just a few. videos submitted by Seventy-seven all the schools in students received attendance, Izzi was tickets to see selected as a student “Hamilton” from performer. On May the Gilder Lehrman Liane Cismowski 3, she stood on the MDHS PRINCIPAL Institute. As part of stage at the this gift, the instiOrpheum Theatre tute sent teachers materials to and performed her monologue help the students understand in front of 2,000 students from the founding era and how Lin- all over Northern California. Manuel Miranda created She was amazing. “Hamilton.” Meanwhile, 13 Medical Students analyzed primary Bio-Technical Academy sources and identified the ideas (MBTA) sophomores took a from the sources in a song seven-hour certification exam Miranda wrote for the musical. that included drills for a ComEach student was asked to cre- munity Emergency Response ate an original piece based on Team (CERT) in Martinez. To the founding era. Isabelle prepare for the examination, Fleury, a junior in the Digital they engaged in a 10-week Safari Academy, wrote as intensive training at John Muir Daniel Shays, calling the farm- Hospital. As a result of receivers of Massachusetts to rebel ing certification, they are now against a government that was prepared to be first responders not keeping its promises to pay within their communities. soldiers who fought in the American Revolution. All the Send comments and questions to students were recorded, and editor@concordpioneer.com

May 26, 2017

Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com

Page 19

Four Concord students honored for ROP excellence

The Contra Costa County Office of Education honored 42 high school students, including four from Concord, with Students of Excellence Awards in their CTE/ROP (Career Technical Education/Regional Occupational Program) classes. The students received certificates of merit and $250 scholarships at the May 11 ceremony. CTE/ROP focuses on career preparation and exploration, hands-on experience

and academic excellence to prepare students for success in college and careers. Winners included Ryan McGhehey, civil engineering and architecture, Clayton Valley Charter High School; Miranda Murphree, computer applications, and Valeria Martinez, computerized accounting, Concord High School; and Ivan Isguerra, careers in teaching internship, Ygnacio Valley High School.

IVAN ISGUERRA

RYAN MCGHEHEY

VALERIA MARTINEZ

MIRANDA MURPHREE

Event celebrates district’s Career Pathways Carlo, director of Earn & Learn East Bay. Tom Trowbridge, MDUSD teacher of the year and a construction and engineering teacher at Concord High, shared the importance of community partnerships for his program. Junior Shahid Azizi told about his experience in the Health Science Academy at Ygnacio Valley. He also dis-

HEATHER FONTANILLA Special to the Pioneer

Mt. Diablo Unified School District’s annual Career Pathways Showcase is an opportunity for community members to meet the students and teachers and see the students’ amazing work. It is also an opportunity to hear from students and teachers about how much they value the community partner involvement, which includes the Concord Chamber of Commerce, John Muir Health and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. The May 5 event featured nine career pathways, with at least one from each of MDUSD’s high schools. They included the Digital Safari Academy at Mt. Diablo High School, the Engineering & Construction Academy at Concord High School, the Educating for Careers Academy at Ygnacio Valley High School, the Engineering pathway from Northgate High School and the PLTW

cussed his involvement in the MDUSD Youth Employment Services program that targets at-risk students and helps prepare them for successful transition to college and career.

Fontanilla is a program specialist for Career Pathways and Linked Learning with MDUSD.

Joe Ronco/Owner 925-872-3049 jaroncoconstruction.com

Contributed photo

Kyler Sullenger, 9th grade, and Victoria Flores, 10th grade, are students in the College Park Video Production pathway.

(Project Lead the Way) medical pathway from lege Park High School. The PLTW Launch gram from Delta View mentary School and

Bio- PLTW Gateway program Col- from Riverview Middle School also were highlighted, pro- demonstrating MDUSD’s Ele- commitment to career awarethe ness with younger students.

Guests enjoyed a Cinco de Mayo lunch while listening to presentations, including Stephanie Roberts, director of special projects for MDUSD, and Gina Del

35 years Clayton/ Concord resident Lic#844344

A few final thoughts about high school DALHYA GOMEZ YVHS Correspondent

I remember dreaming about being a senior. As soon as high school started, I was amazed by the seniors. They seemed so cool, and it looked like they had so much fun. I couldn’t wait to be like them. However, I didn’t think

about everything that came along with being a senior: applying for college, volunteering and an endless pile of homework. I did not think about the stress. With three weeks left, I can now say that it was all worth it. I learned what I love doing and what is extremely important to me. I can’t say that high school

was the best four years of my life, but it taught me who I am. Those endless years (as I felt they were) helped shape who I am today, and I’m very proud of who I have become. I look forward to what awaits me in the future. High school was fun, and I’ll probably remember lots of it – the good and the bad. The

good will make me smile, and let’s just hope I’ll laugh about the bad stuff eventually. For those of you going through it now, I wish you the best of luck. I hope you find your way – if not now, then in the near future. And, enjoy high school while it lasts.

Send comments and questions to editor@concordpioneer.com

Reflecting on a successful year at CVCHS

As Clayton Valteaching, counseling tional Center for Leadership intervention programs to ley Charter High and coaching staffs. in Education and a request help “close the achievement School completes There are so that our executive director gap.” its final weeks and many student present on instructional • Supporting our athletic prepares for graduaachievements and practices that led CVCHS to teams at numerous league tion on June 1, it’s school programs to stellar academic achievechampionships and sectionbeen another suchighlight, and each ment, graduation and colal playoff games. cessful year as a is due their own lege admissions rates. • Enjoying musical and visual public charter recognition. But • Offering the inspirational art performances of our school. here are my favorite Challenge Day program for bands, drama and dance stuJohn McMorris In our fifth year moments: all 10th graders to address dents. since conversion, CVCHS PRINCIPAL unity, tolerance and respect CVCHS is fortufor every student. Our students reflect the nate to have the flexibility to • Receiving the California • Showcasing our Arts Acade- best of our community. As our develop innovative programs Gold Ribbon Schools my student exhibits and graduates go out into the real that promote student acceleraAward from the state Public Service Academy world, I am confident that we tion in academic, social and Department of Education. community engagement have diligently prepared them civic areas. CVCHS is a unique • Winning the prestigious activities at the Open for success in the 21st century. community, and it’s reflected National Model Schools House. Send comments and questions to by the commitment of the Award from the Interna- • Implementing powerful editor@concordpioneer.com

Planning, from page 7

Concord residents who do not know where to start or are finding this process difficult may use the permit center at Concord City Hall. The city designed the permit center to be an easy, one-stop

shop for anyone who has interest in developing something within the city. The permit center is where residents can inquire about a parcel’s zoning, submit a building permit application, and

receive comments and direction about plans, along with many more other functions. The permit center operates 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday. The three steps I outlined are a high-level overview of what is required in the devel-

opment process. If you have any questions about this process, contact the permit center at 925-671-3107.

Dominic Aliano is a member of the Concord Planning Commission. Email questions and comments to at dominicaliano863@gmail.com

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Joaquin Miller Park a cool ride for hot days Page 20

Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com

May 26, 2017

case if you visit on weekends, as many of the locals I met mentioned above average popularity on Saturdays and Sundays. I was reminded once again how a short drive can put you into some of the most beautiful places in the Bay Area with-

out much effort. Parking near the Ranger Station off Sanborn Drive allows easy access into the park via the Sinawik Loop Trail. With the exception of a few trails open only to hikers, almost all the trails here are multi-use and can be shared by those hiking, biking

and on horseback. Upon entering the park, the shady wooded areas and cool air from the bay allowed for perfect temperatures on the trail. Lush hillsides peppered with coast redwoods, live oaks and pines made for the ultimate nature experience within the Oakland city limits. I suggest using Sunset and Sequoia-Bayview Trails as a main loop around the park due to proximity and access to most trails you’ll want to cover. Trails I want to highlight include Sequoia-Bayview Trail, a personal favorite with some of the most picturesque views of the San Francisco Bay Area; Fern Ravine, a hiker’s only trail that was a wildflower jackpot; Big Trees, a must if you are on a bike; and Sunset Loop and Chaparral Trail, a downhill, two-wheeling bomber for those who like technical descents with lots of obstacles. Palos Colorados is another “no bicycles trail” option that runs along Palo Seco Creek and seems to be a much lesstraveled trail with a certain solitary element. The point to remember is that any trail you

held afterward. If the party immediately follows the service, you’ll wear the same thing to both. Put on a cocktail dress, but make sure to cover up with a jacket or a shawl at the temple. If there’s a break before the reception, you may want to change. A feminine suit works well for the service, then wear something dressier to the party. The Occasion: A funeral or wake.

Old etiquette: If you’re in mourning, you’re in black. New etiquette: Your outfit doesn’t have to be black, but it does have to be respectful. What to wear: It’s important to convey the somberness of the event, which can be accomplished with toneddown clothing in dark neutrals, like navy, brown and forest green. Pantsuits and lightweight wool dresses are a safe

bet. Dark and discreet patterns are also fine, as are classic accessories like pearls and stud earrings. This is not the time for your orange and yellow Indonesian necklace. Don’t wear anything festive or fun, unless it’s been requested. If you suspect something might be pushing the envelope, skip it. Be the first in the country to see the W by Worth fall col-

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Oakland gets a bad rap for any number of reasons, some of which are well-deserved. However, being a glass half full type, I want to highlight why you might want to give it a second chance. One reason is Joaquin Miller Park, nestled in the hills above Oakland. This park adjoins Redwood Regional Park and Roberts Recreation Area, both of which have earned spots for future articles. Joaquin Miller Park was named after an early California writer and poet who purchased the land in the 1880s, calling it “The Hights.” The park is heavily wooded with panoramic views and miles of trails in Oakland’s urban wildlands.

Kevin Parker

Lots of shade and rewarding views make Joaquin Miller urban wilderness park a good choice for cycling and hiking in hot weather.

Being an equal opportunity columnist, I decided the best way to cover the most trails within this 500-acre open space was with two wheels. So on an early Friday morning with a two-hour window of freedom, I had this park entirely to myself. This is not the

Clothes Up, from page 15

welcome; hats and gloves preferred. New etiquette: Honor the occasion in attire that is tasteful, not stuffy. What to wear: Choose an outfit that’s appropriate for a religious facility – not too lowcut or clingy. If you’ve never been to a particular house of worship, it’s a good idea to

double-check its conventions. It’s important to steer clear of anything overly serious when you’re celebrating a happy milestone in a child’s life. For a baptism, wear a little bit of color – like a bright suit or a pretty daytime dress. The dress code for a bar mitzvah or a bat mitzvah can be determined by the party

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choose is the right trail is this park. The park has multiple access points, many of which have restrooms and adequate parking. I came for the trails, but for those looking for a different experience, Joaquin Miller Park also boasts a native plant nursery, Woodminster Amphitheater, a dog play area, community center, horse arena, tot lot and many other areas to visit. Dogs on leash are allowed on trails.

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