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Meals on Wheels a lifeline for homebound seniors
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From the desk of...
LAURA HOFFMEISTER
November 24, 2017
925.672.0500
KARA NAVOLIO Correspondent
MAYOR
Reflecting on what makes Concord great
This is my last column as my turn as mayor will be ending Dec. 5, when the City Council will rotate the position, as we do every year. It’s been an honor and privilege serving as your mayor this past year. Thanks to my council colleagues and all the city employees who do a great job serving our community and to the Concord Pioneer for allowing me to share community information. The rainy season is here, along with a free 24-hour sandbagging station for Concord residents at the city’s Corporation Yard, 1455 Gasoline Alley. Pre-filled sandbags Tamara Steiner/Concord Pioneer are available for seniors and Volunteer Fred Pardella delivers a meal to Concord resident Dolores Gonsalves, who cannot cook hot meals because she is blind. Susannah Meyer of Meals on Wheels, right, came along for a well-being check.
See Mayor, page 7
On Nov. 21, seniors who can no longer drive or cook received a Thanksgiving dinner, complete with turkey, stuffing, pumpkin pie as well as meals to last through the holiday until the next week. Across Contra Costa County, more than 800 seniors get meals each weekday from Meals on Wheels – 150 in Concord and Clayton. Meals on Wheels and Senior Outreach Services (MOWSOS) has been operating here since 1968. This year, nearly 1,500 volunteers made sure that homebound seniors receive healthy meals each weekday and get a friendly check-in. Concord resident Fred Pardella has been delivering meals for 10 years in Concord and Clayton. “All the clients are so nice and appreciative of what we do. I’ve become friends with some of the people,” he says.
See MOW, page 7
Helix resigns abruptly from CNWS advisory committee JAY BEDECARRÉ Concord Pioneer
Former Concord Mayor Dan Helix abruptly resigned this month from the Naval Weapons Station Reuse Citizens Advisory Committee, which he had served as chairperson since the committee’s formation last January. Helix feels city staff has not provided the 13-member committee with enough time to fully review and understand the most recent Master Developer’s Proposed Land Use Plan for which the city sought initial approval at the Nov. 7 CAC meeting. Going back to the beginning of the committee’s work he says the City has not given the committee members sufficient time to “get up to speed” on the complex project. “Unfortunately, instead of small sips they received a flow of information as out of a fire hose.” For their Nov. 7 meeting
Tamara Steiner/Concord Pioneer
GUY BJERKE
Inside
Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Community . . . . . . . . . . .2
From the desk of . . . . . .7 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Performing Arts . . . . . .16
Tamara Steiner/Concord Pioneer
DAN HELIX
Director of Community Reuse Planning Guy Bjerke had requested “the CAC designate the proposed land use plan as the preferred land use plan and the basis for further study through the preparation of the more detailed specific plan document, technical studies and the environmental analysis.” Following staff and developer presentations and protracted discussion, Bjerke made a final request “for direction” from the committee. Helix called for a vote on the matter and the committee voted 9-4 to designate the plan as presented, per staff ’s request. Helix is concerned that such a designation now has de facto made it “the Specific Plan” and says it effectively negates any need for a future vote by the CAC on the Specific Plan. “In plain English this means the CAC’s hands are tied.” At the meeting Bjerke and planner Joan Ryan explained
that over the next several months—beginning with the regular November meeting this Tuesday—the CAC will receive presentations on transportation, infrastructure and smart cities. Helix tendered his resignation in a Nov. 8 letter to the City Council and City Manager Valerie Barone. He wrote, “Regretfully, I no longer feel I can make a significant contribution to the initially mandated goals and objectives of the Committee.” Bjerke and Helix have been long-time allies but saw this issue very differently. Bjerke explained that since the CAC’s last regular meeting in September, the City held Community Workshop #3 and three study sessions on this item with the Planning Commission and the City Council. Those study sessions delayed the CAC’s October meeting until Nov. 7. Bjerke said until right before the start of the meeting he was not aware of Helix’s concerns. Taking into account input from the workshop and three study sessions Bjerke and staff felt the Proposed Land Use Plan from developer Five Point/ Lennar was ready for designation so the next steps in the long process with various agencies, Planning Commission and City Council could move forward. They hope that 2018 will yield significant progress that might lead to a City Council vote by early 2019 on the Specific Plan. That could then lead to infrastructure work beginning in 2020
and initial construction on the first phase of 500 acres as soon as 2022. After his resignation, Helix said “the city needs to curtail this sense of urgency. Slow down the process.” He urges the City to have small instruc-
tional group meetings for the CAC to “educate them so they can make intelligent decisions and not vote for something simply because it’s recommended by staff, which seems to be the current mindset.” While sitting on the City
Council Helix initially opposed the selection of Lennar as the master developer of the Concord Naval Weapons conversion to a “world class project.” He says that Lennar’s final term
See Helix, page 7
St. Francis cheer teams go all out for holiday giving The season of giving is upon us, and many are in need this holiday season. The cheerleaders from Saint Francis of Assisi K-8 school in Concord are holding their 10th annual turkey drive to provide a holiday bird to more than 100 seniors in need at the Monument Crisis Center in Concord. “This year, we are trying to collect 150 turkeys to donate,” said Sofia Cattrone, a fifth-grade cheerleader new to the team. The girls arrive in their uniforms and lead the crowd in cheers, making the event festive and positive. It’s a wonderful day of community building and the team gets excited for it every year. “My favorite part is collecting and delivering the turkeys,” said Celestina Dioso, an eighth-grade cheerleader, “but most of all, talking with the senior citizens at the center.” The team spends many weeks organizing and advertis-
Elizabeth Riley, Izzy Oswald and Alyssa Lesavoy help their fellow St. Francis of Assisi cheerleaders deliver more than 150 turkeys to Monument Crisis Center
ing. Finally, on the morning of the drive, they collect turkeys and gift cards during the school’s carline drop-off to deliver within the hour. The team hopes to continue this tradition for many years to come. Leadership qualities cultivated at Saint Francis of
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Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
Concord 5000 Run/Walk for Blue Star Moms
The Inaugural Concord 5000 5K Run/Walk took place under sunny skies in and around Concord’s Newhall Park on Sunday morning, November 12.
Over 100 participants were on hand for the charity fundraiser whose proceeds benefitted the Contra Costa Blue Star Moms. The Contra Costa Blue Star
Daisies at Museum
Linda Sadler’s second grade class from Calvary Temple Christian School in Concord made a recent field trip to the Clayton Historical Society’s museum. The kids took a guided walking tour of downtown Clayton before heading back to the museum where they made old-fashioned button toys and learned to use a manual typewriter.
18:43. He was followed by Anthony Munch at 19:47, Car Kadlic at 20:47 and Tim Martinez at 21:01. Bryce Pamer clocked in at 21:50 to round out the top 5 men. The women’s champion was local elite runner Christine Brighton with a time of 22:26, who fended off a strong bid by Loren Delmonico who finished in 22:35. Rounding out the top 5 for the women was Ingrid Shipstead at 25:50, Emma Kelly at 26:01 and Sara Martinez at 26:10. The event was presented by Diablo Valley Federal Credit Union and co-sponsored with Orangetheory Fitness of ConMoms will use the funds to send cord/Clayton care packages to troops over the Diablo Valley Federal CredHolidays. it Union intends to make the Jordan Reyes won the Concord 5000 an annual event. men’s race with a time of
Family members, and brother Scott students, local offiunveiled the memoricials and community al. The monument is members gathered at the fourth of 12 Ygnacio Valley High planned by the Contra School on Nov. 9 to Costa Blue Star Moms dedicate a monument – one for each of the in honor of Cpl. Sean local high schools that Langevin, who was lost a former student CPL. SEAN killed in combat in in the Global War on LANGEVIN Afghanistan on Nov. Terrorism. 9, 2007. The next memorial Langevin served with the will be dedicated at De La Salle 173rd Airborne Brigade, para- High School on Jan. 9 to honor troopers who called them- Army Capt. John L. Hallett III selves “the chosen few.” He and Air Force Senior Airman and eight others lost their lives Jonathan A. Vega Yelner. in combat in eastern The Blue Star Moms is Afghanistan. He left behind his open to mothers and fathers wife Jessica, who was expecting who have or have had children their first child. serving in the armed forces. His wife, mother Roxane The Contra Costa Chapter is
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A new memorial at Ygnacio Valley High honors Cpl. Sean Langevin 10 years to the day after he was killed in combat.
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November 24, 2017
CVCHS new Dean of Character roots for Eagles, Bears
Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
Statue of Pacheco hallmark of city’s 150th celebration LISA FULMER Correspondent
The Concord Sesquicentennial Committee has selected sculptor Paula Slater to create a bronze statue of Don Salvio Pacheco to mark the city’s 150th birthday. The 7-foot statue of one of the city’s founders will stand inside the Grant Street entrance of Todos Santos Plaza. Installation is targeted for June, with the city hosting a formal unveiling during the July 4th parade that travels around the plaza. “This particular artist was Photo courtesy CVCHS actually the highest bidder, but John Bowers (right) is the her work was so good that we new Dean of Character at decided we had to go with her,” Clayton Valley Charter High says City Councilman Ron School this fall. Besides adLeone, co-chair of the Sesquidressing disciplinary issues centennial Committee. “Her such as tardiness, dress code violations and any mis- work was just outstanding. She’s done a lot of period work, and treatment of other students it’s very realistic looking.” such as bullying, Bowers A full-time professional also coaches special teams sculptor for more than 30 years, and defensive backs for the league champion CVCHS Slater is internationally recogvarsity football team. When nized for creating bronze monuhe’s not at his desk or on ments, portrait busts and memothe football field for the high rials of politicians, military school, his thoughts go 22 heroes and leaders of industry. miles to the west where his “I love to sculpt portraits of son Ross Bowers (3) is the interesting people whose lives starting quarterback for the are inspiring,” says Slater, who rebuilding university of Cali- lives in Napa. “I especially love fornia football team that still to sculpt historical portraits with dreams of getting a bowl detailed period clothing, so havgame berth at the end of ing this opportunity to sculpt this season. Don Salvio Pacheco is right in my wheelhouse.” The Pioneer wants to know Pacheco’s adobe, built in about your anniversaries, 1846 at 1870 Adobe St., was the weddings, engagements, first permanent structure in the births, awards and milearea. In 1868, Pacheco and his stones. Please send a son-in-law Francisco Galindo short description of your laid out the town of Todos Sanevent, a high-resolution tos near the adobe. New settlers photo and your contact info began calling the area Concord, to editor@concord and the city was incorporated in pioneer.com 1905.
Paula Slater created a miniature version of the Don Salvio Pacheco statue, and the city will give out replicas for special recognitions.
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and kindness,” says Slater. “It will be my great honor and joy to sculpt his portrait.” Leone came up with the idea for the statue while on a train stop in Colfax enroute to Reno. “There’s a statue of (Schuyler) Colfax in the train station and I thought to myself, if this small town was able to do that, then a great city like Concord should have a statue.” In addition to donations from businesses and civic organizations to cover the $150,000 cost, residents can participate by purchasing bricks for the patio surrounding the statue. The deadline to order bricks is Dec. 30. Visit concordhistorical.org for more information. Starting with the Dec. 2 Christmas tree lighting at Todos Santos Plaza, city events will have a sesquicentennial theme throughout 2018. “We’re also putting together a time capsule, so we’ll be asking people to help come up with ideas,” Leone adds. “It will not be opened for another 150 more years.”
Slater’s design features Pacheco holding a scroll of the Monte del Diablo Mexican land grant in his left hand, while his right hand rests on a map indicating the boundary of that land. Staff writer Bev Britton con“There are many stories tributed to this story. about his open-hearted giving
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New priest launches drive-through prayer
Page 4
Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
November 24, 2017
JAY BEDECARRÉ Concord Pioneer
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Without leaving your vehicle on Clayton Road, you have an assortment of drive-through options – from a freshly made peppermint mocha to getting your car washed and filled up. Now, Father Mat Vellankal is offering you a couple minutes of reflection and prayer each weekday evening at St. Bonaventure Church. The new pastor is introducing Drive-Thru Prayer from 5-6 p.m. Monday through Friday (unless there’s heay rain falling) in the front parking lot of the Catholic church off Clayton Road. This isn’t a new concept for Vellankal, who began this spiritual service in November 2014 at his previous parish of Holy Spirit Church. Drive-Thru Prayer is still going strong at the Fremont church three years later. “There is no need to turn off the ignition or get out of the car,” says Christa Fairfield, director of parish life at St. Bonaventure. “Drivers just set the brake and take a moment to have the prayer team be present to them, to hear their request and pray with them.” The pastor explains that a few notices in the church bulletin resulted in 23 volunteers to serve on the team. “I will have 30 on the team so that they can share the nightly duties,” says Vellankal, who also has teens waving human signs on Clayton Road – hawking prayer rather than pizza. “At the end of the work or school day, people may be stressed out and/or face a crisis in their life,” Vellankal says. “We want them to share a short prayer of three minutes or less with the team before they continue home.” This is a nondenominational service open to everyone in the community. A week ago Monday when Drive Thru prayer debuted at St. Bonaventure, a woman parked her car after her prayerful visit and walked over to chat with Fr. Vellankal.
Tamara Steiner/Concord Pioneer
Father Mat Vellankal relaxes in the Meditation Garden behind St. Bonaventure Church.
The woman had read about the program and stopped by on her way home to Antioch. She loves the concept and wants Fr. Mat to visit her pastor in Antioch (she belongs to a different denomination church) to explain Drive Thru Prayer. He readily agreed. The new priest says about 30 cars drove through the first day but about half that number took part the next evening. Volunteers give each driver a card with contact information and the St. Bonaventure Mass schedule on one side and the Prayer of St. Francis of Assisi on the other. Vellankal, who turns 60 in May, has spent 30 years as a priest. His late parents were “middle class farmers” in the state of Kerala in Southwest India. He called the area “God’s own country” in his 2015 book, “From Rural India to Silicon Valley.” After his ordination in India, he ended up in Northeast India working as a youth minister and, for some time, as headmaster of a 2,000 student, all-boys school. His work was recognized to such an extent that in 1997 the Vatican appointed him as international chaplain of the International Movement of Catholic Agricultural Rural Youth. The position required him to move to their world headquarters in Brussels, Belgium.
He came to the United States four years later and was named assistant pastor at Queen of All Saints in Concord, where he served for three years. He was the pastor at Holy Spirit in Fremont for the past 11 years. After leaving the Fremont church, he took a short sabbatical that included a trip to Italy and a few weeks in India. He visited family including his three brothers and his sister, who is a nun. Upon the retirement of Father Richard Mangini, he was named St. Bonaventure’s pastor in July. The church celebrated its 60th anniversary last summer. “This new assignment is good for me,” says the enthusiastic Vellankal, who seems to wear a perpetual smile as he discusses his plans for the local Catholic community. Holy Spirit parishioners posted a six-minute farewell video on YouTube. In it, Holy Spirit business manager Jeff Van der Sluis says people can’t say no to Vellankal. “The reason is the magic that comes when you say yes.” Holy Spirit school students said how much they like the humor in Vellankal’s homilies as well as his magic tricks. “I like to get young people’s attention by doing magic at our children’s Mass and bible camp,” says the priest.
craft vendors, artisans, art, and delicious edible treats and gifts. Stroll through the holiday lanes and experience the scents and sounds of the holiday season. The event also provides a sneak peek at the newly reno-
vated Concord Museum and Event Center. The boutique will be 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Dec. 9-10 at 1928 Clayton Road. For more information, visit concordhistorical.org or email GingerbreadHouseBoutique@gmail.com.
Gingerbread boutique at Concord’s new museum
The Concord Historical Society will host its first Christmas Gingerbread House Boutique Dec. 9-10. The boutique was the idea of Susan Pace-Koch, a local children’s author and publisher. The festival will feature
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Page 5
Activist looking for solutions to Monument parking jam BEV BRITTON Concord Pioneer
A lack of street parking in the Monument Corridor has prompted a Concord resident to suggest using free parking lots in the downtown area and shuttle people to and from their homes. However, a Concord City Council member says the plan may not be practical. George Fulmore, founder and spearhead of the Monument Democratic Club (not an official affiliate with the Democratic Party), sent an appeal to City Councilman Edi Birsan asking the city to help with the parking problem in the Monument area. Fulmore suggested using available spaces in downtown lots that are being underused. “Years ago, there were simply fewer cars per home or apartment unit. By 6 p.m., there is virtually no street parking
available in these dense housing areas,” Fulmore said. Birsan said he regularly hears complaints regarding the parking situation in the Monument Corridor. “Using the two downtown parking lots along with a shuttle is a unique concept,” he said, “but I’m not sure it would be realistic.” Birsan says the first step would be finding out if people would be willing to use this service. He also wondered who would operate the shuttle. “Buses and shuttles don’t grow on trees,” said Birsan. “How much would people be willing to pay for this?” The areas impacted include sections of Detroit Avenue, Victory Lane, Ellis Street, Laguna, Meadow Lane and several other streets and courts in the Monument Corridor. Compounding the problem is that some people are using the Meadow Homes Park parking
lot for long-term storage of their cars. Fulmore said efforts to have them ticketed or towed have failed. “The city does not have a municipal code section that allows the Police Department to cite or tow vehicles from parking lots of parks,” he said. Fulmore also notes that the parking lot at Ellis Lake Park, off Clayton Road, should follow the same rules as Meadow Homes Park. “This appears to be an opportunity for free, open parking at night for those in the Ellis, Laguna and Adelaide area.” Fulmore says another option would be for the city to find public land for storing cars. Owners would have to register and pay a nominal fee for the opportunity to park there. Birsan suggested polling residents to see if they would use any off-site parking solutions before making any plans.
The city of Concord has partnered with the Business Council on Climate Change and more than 50 cities, counties and major employers to launch the annual Bay Area SunShares program. The group buying program offers residents discounts on rooftop solar installations, zeroemission vehicles and home vehicle charging stations. Last year, SunShares helped 145 homeowners make the switch to solar. Residents have until Nov. 10 to sign up for the solar program and must sign a contract with a
selected solar provider by Dec. 31 to qualify for the discount. Solar installations are offered at 15 percent to 25 percent off market rate. Partner car dealerships offering zero-emission vehicles, such as the Toyota Prius and Nissan Leaf, will feature substantial discounts to residents of participating organizations that register via the SunShares website. A free workshop about the program will be held 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 28, in the City Council Chamber, 1950 Parkside Dr. Registration is available
through Eventbrite.com. “The city of Concord is strongly committed to making our community more sustainable,” said principal planner Michael Cass, who manages Concord’s sustainability programs. “We are proud to partner with the Bay Area SunShares Program, which is instrumental in assisting residents and local businesses with the installation of solar panels and purchase of zero-emission vehicles.” To receive a no-obligation solar quote or register for the program, visit www.bayareasunshares.org.
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Page 6
Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
November 24, 2017
Toyota brings new testing to GoMentum Station The Toyota Research Institute (TRI) has signed an agreement with GoMentum Station to test autonomous vehicle technology at the 5,000-acre facility in Concord. The partnership, managed by the Contra Costa Transportation Authority (CCTA), enables TRI to expand closed course testing of its two-pronged approach to vehicle automation: Guardian and Chauffeur. “The city continues to serve the region as an autonomous technology hub,” said Mayor Laura Hoffmeister. “We believe this partnership will continue to support economic growth and spur excitement for high-tech jobs in our community.” With Guardian, a human driver maintains vehicle control and the automated driving system operates in the background – monitoring for potential crash situations. It can intervene to protect vehicle occupants when needed. Chauffeur is TRI’s version of full vehicle autonomy – where all occupants are passengers as
the car drives itself. Both approaches use the same technology stack of sensors and cameras. TRI recently demonstrated Platform 2.1, an advanced safety research vehicle that allows for Guardian and Chauffeur testing. Platform 2.1 includes a new high-fidelity LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) system that provides a longer sensing range, a much denser point cloud to better detect positions of three-dimensional objects and a field of view that is dynamically configurable. GoMentum Station is the Bay Area birthplace of the next generation of transportation technology. Its varied terrain and real-life infrastructure – including roads, bridges, tunnels, intersections and parking lots – provide a great environment to accelerate testing of “difficult miles” needed to advance Guardian and Chauffeur. “The addition of GoMentum Station to TRI’s arsenal of automated vehicle test locations allows us to create hazardous
driving scenarios,” noted Ryan Eustice, TRI vice president of autonomous driving. TRI, based in Los Altos, says its work at GoMentum Station
will advance research that can drastically improve lives in Contra Costa County and worldwide. Randy Iwasaki, CCTA’s executive director, says safety is
the most important benefit of driverless technology. “The statistics are clear: Lives will be saved by reducing a vehicle’s reliance on human driv-
ers,” Iwasaki said. “We are excited to see the progress TRI will make to perfect driverless and driver-aided technology at GoMentum Station.”
The Contra Costa Transportation Authority (CCTA) is guaranteeing free parking at the Concord and Pleasant Hill BART stations for Scoop drivers who carpool from or within the county. Those using the Scoop app can park in the reserved parking spaces in the permit areas before or after 10 a.m. on weekdays. BART already offers this program at the Dublin/Pleasanton, Millbrae and San Bruno stations. “We’re excited for this rollout of our first two stations in Contra Costa County, where demand for BART parking is
particularly high,” said Nikki Foletta, principal planner at BART. “We’re hoping to shift some riders from driving alone to sharing a trip to BART.” To get guaranteed BART parking, download the app at takescoop.com. Use promo code BARTLOVE05 to receive a $5 credit, type in the BART station name and schedule a ride either before 9 p.m. the night before the morning commute or by 3:30 p.m. for the evening commute. Shortly after the deadline, Scoop notifies commuters who have matched with one of their 65,000+ users.
Contra Costa residents are also eligible for discounts on the Scoop app through a partnership with 511 Contra Costa and CCTA. Scoop passengers who carpool will continue to receive a $2 discount – plus a $2 reimbursement for new drivers. All payments are handled inside the app, as well as directions and contact details for the trip. Brothers Jon and Rob Sadow founded Scoop Technologies in 2015 in San Francisco. It is currently available throughout the Bay Area and Seattle. “Scoop is proud to be selected by BART to provide this pro-
gram,” said David Clavens, head of marketing at Scoop. “Together with BART, we’re able to add convenient and enjoyable carpooling to the lifestyle of any BART commuter.” According to BART, most of the 48,000 parking spaces fill by 8 a.m. A 2016 passenger survey showed that 95 percent of those spots are taken by solo drivers. Meanwhile, Bay Area car commuters waste more than half a million empty seats each day – causing increased pollution, slower travel times and an enormous burden on the transportation network.
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Smart911 enhances emergency Be aware of rosacea symptoms services to Concord residents ples on the cheeks, nose and chin with dry, sensitive skin) to rhinophymatous rosacea (the classic large nose with big pores due to years of inflammation causing the soft tissue of the nose to grow thicker). Severe cases of each subtype may lead to ocular rosacea and rarely to blindness. Rosacea increases the number of small blood vessels in the eyelids, blockage of the meibomian glands (glands on the edge of the eyelid that add a little oil to tears so they last longer and keep the eye moist) and dryness of the eye, which may ultimately lead to thickening of the cornea called rosacea keratitis, Marmur said. Ocular rosacea is prevalent in up to 58 percent of current rosacea sufferers, more commonly in men. When rosacea flares up, it blocks the glands and the tears evaporate faster without the natural oils – leading to dry eyes and blepharitis. This causes itchy, dry eyes and flakey, red eyelids. It is important to be aware of your symptoms so you can develop a treatment plan with your dermatologist. 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
CHRISTInE KOGuT
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As the temperatures drop, we can expect rosy cheeks. However, rosy cheeks that are a symptom of rosacea need to be taken seriously. Rosacea is a skin condition that affects more than 14 million Americans. It begins to appear in people over the age of 30 and is characterized by redness on the forehead, nose, cheeks and chin. One can also develop ruddy skin, prominent blood vessels, pimples and eye problems. “Rosacea is a highly inflammatory condition affecting the face and commonly causes eye irritation, feeling like grittiness, stinging or swelling of the eyelid,” Dr. Ellen Marmur recently told Huffington Post. Marmur is president and founder of Marmur Medical and an associate clinical professor at Mount Sinai Medical Center. She said there are many types of rosacea, from common flushing to acneiform rosacea (pink pim-
Smart911 is now available to all residents and travelers in Concord. The free service allows individuals and families to sign up online to provide key information for 911 dispatchers to use during an emergency. “Smart911 saves critical time in an emergency and has proven to save lives nationwide,” said Margaret Romiti, Concord’s Volunteer and Emergency Services manager. “The additional information provided in a Smart911 safety profile
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response teams to the right location with the right information. Residents can link home and work addresses to mobile phones, which can be passed on to responders in the field for more a detailed, rapid response. Additional information can include pets in the home, special medical needs, vehicle details and emergency contacts. All information is optional, and residents can choose what details they want to include. “Mobile phones cannot always determine your exact
location, making it that much more difficult for 911 dispatchers to find you in the case of an emergency,” Romiti noted. “Information provided in your safety profile can help ensure that you receive help fast.” Smart911 is private and secure. It is only used for emergency responses and only made available to the 911 system in the event of an emergency call. The national service protects more than 45 million people across 44 states and 3,100 communities.
California continues to focus on sea level rise WOODY WHITLATCH WEATHER WORDS
The federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has pushed climate change and related environmental issues associated with global warming to the back of the bus under the current administration. However, California has a long history of recognizing causes and effects of climate change and continues to rely on
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enables emergency personnel to know exactly where they are going and who they are looking for in the case of an emergency. Taking advantage of Smart911 is one thing residents can do to help keep themselves and their loved ones safe.” At www.smart911.com, residents can create a safety profile for their household. When residents make emergency calls, their safety profiles are automatically displayed to the 911 dispatcher. This allows the dispatcher to send the right
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scientific studies to provide guidance to its citizens. During the last half of the 20th century, researchers identified a strong link between greenhouse gas emissions and global warming. In the mid-1980s, the United Nations and World Meteorological Organization formed the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) to assess scientific information relevant to the causes and impacts of climate change. Based largely on findings from early IPCC reports, California legislators instructed the state’s Energy Commission to conduct several climate change studies in the 1990s. The goal was to determine how global warming and related climate change issues could affect the state’s infrastructure, energy demand and water supply. Those reports paved the way for research that continues today. In 2000, legislators passed SB 1771 to establish a statewide
climate change advisory committee. Now known as the state Climate Action Team, it serves as the state EPA’s clearinghouse for research in all aspects related to climate change. California’s coast and bay areas may be especially vulnerable to sea level rise, one of the byproducts of global warming. Sea level rise research is a good example of how state-sponsored scientific study results in adaptation strategies at the local level. In 2010, the state EPA Ocean Protection Council published the first sea level guidance document for California. Revisions have been issued in 2013 and 2017. Let’s look at how the latest guidance forecasts sea level rise at San Francisco compared to the 1991-2009 mean. Data is presented in “likely ranges” and “5 percent probability” for 2030, 2050 and 2100. The likely range means there is a 67 percent probability of occurrence, while
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the 5 percent probability means there is a one in 20 chance of occurrence. For 2030, the likely range of sea level rise is 4-6 inches with a 5 percent probability of 7 inches. By 2050, the likely range lifts to 7-13 inches while the 5 percent probability is 17 inches. End of the century estimates include a likely range of 12-41 inches with a 5 percent probability of 38-53 inches. The main consequence of sea level rise, when combined with high tides and storm surges, is the increased frequency and areal coverage of flood events. For example, some areas that are currently subjected to temporary flooding will become permanently inundated, and low-lying areas further inland will be vulnerable to temporary flooding. Adapting to Rising Tides, another Climate Action Team member, addresses which areas will be vulnerable. Their report for Contra Costa County provides detailed tables, charts and shoreline maps based on the state sea level rise guidance. Issued in 2016, the report is available online. Climate change related issues and consequences have not gone away just because of a change of political winds in Washington, D.C. Fortunately for Californians, the state government has continued to rely on solid scientific consensus when developing its mitigation and adaptation strategies. Woody Whitlatch is a meteorologist retired from PG&E. Email your questions or comments to clayton_909@yahoo.com
November 24, 2017
F rom t he desk o f . . .
Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
Working together to help serve veterans
KAREn MITCHOFF
COUNTY
SUPERVISOR
We are living in an era that calls for innovative solutions to the multitude of global and regional challenges we all face together. As we honor the heroic
first responders in the tragic North Bay fires, let’s also remember the men and women who fight for our country’s freedom. The Board of Supervisors held its annual Veteran’s Day ceremony on Nov. 7, with the theme of honoring service organizations for veterans. With scarce resources in an ever-changing economy, we need more innovative leveraging of programs and partnerships to serve those who have dedicated their lives to serving us. In Contra Costa County, the Veterans Service Office (VSO) has operated within this framework to offer innovative services like the monthly “Veterans’ Voices.” A collaboration
with Contra Costa Television, the show addresses topics like Veterans Treatment Court, caffeine usage in the veteran community and women veterans sharing their stories. A CalVet grant supplies most of the funding for the program, which began in July 2014. This is a first-of-its-kind program directed toward informing and assisting the veteran community, an example of creative leveraging of partnerships. The VSO comprises an experienced team of Veterans Service Representatives (VSRs) who are trained and accredited by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. The VSRs support for veterans
includes assistance with veteran claims and partnering with service organizations such as AMVETS, American Legion, Disabled Veterans of America and Veterans of Foreign Wars. The most common veteran benefit is health care, but the Veterans Service Office also assists with education benefits, vocational benefits, home loan benefits, burial benefits and others.
mas season, this is a good time to reflect on the many blessings that we have in our community. We also need to recognize the less fortunate in our community. There are many service organizations throughout the community that provide assistance and support to those in need, and they too could use a helping hand or donation. I encourage everyone to
remember that it is not in what we have, but in what we can give. Through our compassion, we are able to be such a great community for all. On Dec. 2, we will have the city’s tree lighting in Todos Santos with Santa and various local music entertainments. This event signals the official start of the Christmas and holiday season festivities. As you go about your shopping this season, remember to support our small businesses too. I encourage residents to
consider gifts that will spread the joy all year long, perhaps donating in a friend or family member’s name to a local charity or membership to local organizations. Thank you for allowing me to be of service to you as mayor this year and to continue to serve as your elected representative on the City Council.
and very well-balanced,” says Dolores Gonsalves, 86, of Concord. “I can get myself cold meals, but I can’t use the stove because I’m blind. The hot meals are something I cannot do on my own. And the volunteers are very nice and thoughtful people.” The program is designed to support older adults by allowing them to live independently and with dignity for as long as possible. Meals are served free, although donations are accepted. Eighty percent of the seniors are low or very low income, 75 percent are functionally impaired and 9 percent are veterans. Many have no other options for healthy meals. MOWSOS also provides other services for the senior population. Through Friendly Visitors, Fall Prevention and Care Management, they increased the number of seniors served in Contra Costa to more than 5,000 last year. Funding comes from federal, state and county tax dollars as well as grants and donations. However, Elaine Clark, CEO of the local MOWSOS, says funding for all these services has recently come under risk with potential federal cuts. “Thousands of lowincome, frail seniors are at risk under the proposed federal budget, which calls for drastic cuts to many senior programs, including health care, supplemental nutrition assistance, long-term supports and the entire safety net of services,” says Clark. “At a time when we should be honoring those who served our country, built our communities and raised our-
selves and, in many cases, our children, Congress is making life more difficult. “Cuts to the SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) alone could cause a person to have to make the choice of eating or buying lifesaving medications, turning on the heat or eating cereal for dinner,” she adds. Clark cites a Kaiser Family Foundation study showing that more than 60 percent of a person’s health is a direct result of their living conditions. This includes fall safety, proper nutrition, transportation options and socialization. She urges everyone to call or write their Congress members about this topic. “When Congress cuts funding for these services – including Meals on Wheels, Friendly Visiting and Fall Prevention, the costs of health care and 911 emergency services skyrocket,” Clark says. “People become sick, they fall and need emergency services, and they become cut off from society, which can lead to depression and early death.” The national Meals on Wheels America organization states that billions of dollars are saved on expensive healthcare settings by keeping seniors in their homes. One year of meals equals roughly the cost of one day in the hospital. MOWSOS is always happy to accept new volunteers for weekly two-hour delivery shifts or as a substitute driver or office assistant. A 50th anniversary gala is also being planned for May 12. For more information, visit www.mowsos.org.
Mayor, from page 1
the disabled by calling 925671-3448. Two satellite sandbagging stations are at Lime Ridge off Treat Boulevard and Hillcrest Park off Grant Street; bring your own sandbags and shovels. Residents with questions regarding private creeks maintenance can contact Public Works at 925671-3448 for guidance. As we wrap up Thanksgiving and head into the Christ-
MOW, from page 1
“When they stop receiving meals because they may have to move into assisted living, I miss them.” “Our volunteers might be the only person some of our seniors see each day,” says Susannah Meyer, community engagement director for MOWSOS. “Our volunteers have saved lives on occasions when they might notice something amiss. Many seniors don’t have local support or family nearby.” The meals, designed by a registered dietician, are nutritionally balanced and taste-
tested. Each weekday, the staff at Bateman Community Living in Antioch prepares nearly 1,200 meals. The majority are for Meals on Wheels, with the remaining for six C.C. Café locations where seniors can gather for a meal and a social activity. The Concord Senior Center, one of the C.C. Café locations, serves on average 58 seniors each Monday through Friday. Entrees are varied and include dishes like pork carñitas, roast beef, tuna casserole and stuffed peppers. “The meals are wonderful
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To connect to the Veteran Service Office, visit www.co.contracosta.ca.us/1557/Veteran-Service or call 925-313-1481.
Karen Mitchoff is Contra Costa County District IV supervisor. Email questions or comments to karen.mitchoff@bos.cccounty.us
Email questions and comments to the Mayor at Laura. Hoffmeister@cityofconcord.org
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Page 7
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Business Services O.C. Communications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(916) 215-9309 Rising Moon Marketing & Public Relations . . . .672-8717
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Financial, Insurance and Legal Services Van Wyck, Doug – State Farm Insurance . . . . .672-2300 Funerals Ouimet Funeral Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-4242
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Home and Garden Clean & Sober Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .727-9109 Diablo Lawnscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .381-3757 Interiors Panache . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-7920 Nichols Landscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9955 Skim ‘n’ Dip – Pool Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .348-5609 Sonbright Window Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .674-9455 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 Jarquin, Astrid - Weichert Realtors . . . . . . . . . .586-3486 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 Recreation and Fitness Blaze . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.blazetravelball.com Schools Contra Costa School of Performing Arts . . . . . .235-1130 Services, Other ComputersUSA! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9989 DryClean-USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-5653 Kiss Savings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-3350 Mt. Diablo Resource Recovery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .mtdiabloresourcerecovery.com Net Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6029
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Helix, from page 1
sheet addressed many of his concerns and “that garnered my support.” Lennar, recently cited in the Wall Street Journal as America’s No. 1 homebuilder ranked by revenue, formed a separate company this year, Five Point Holdings LLC, which has raised concerns by Helix and others that the entire Lennar Corporation would not be liable to complete the project should financial issues arise. Helix, a retired US Army major general with work experience in the real estate industry, has a near unprecedented tenure of public service with the city of Concord. He was on the City Council, including a term as mayor, from 1968-76. During that time, he was instrumental in arranging for the donation of over 100 acres on Kirker Pass Rd. by developer Ken Hofmann that became the site of the Concord Pavilion. He served as co-chairman of the original CAC committee about 10 years ago and then rejoined the City Council from 2011-2016 and was mayor for a second time in 2013. Concord Mayor Laura
Hoffmeister says, “Dan has been a great asset to the CAC. He was able to bring his prior working knowledge as a member of the first CAC and former council member experience to this CAC. Dan has been a great bridge between the former and current CAC and bring forth the context of the prior CAC work, which provided the foundation for the current CAC.” She added, “He has been an excellent city and national public servant and I sincerely thank him for his …contributions to the City and country over the many years.” Hofmeister has served with both Helix and Bjerke on the City Council. In an ironic twist, the Nov. 7 meeting ended with CAC vice chair Phil Arnold reading a personal statement about the upcoming Veterans Day. He saluted fellow military veteran Helix for his long and distinguished service, going back to the Korean War where Helix was an infantry platoon leader. It turned out to be a final salute to the 88-year-old chairman.
Page 8
Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
November 24, 2017
Look up for exciting wallpaper trend
LYnnE FREnCH
REAL ANSWERS
Q. I just moved into my first home, and I want to decorate to my taste. Is there anything new in the decorating world that is not too expensive? A. I am excited about this
question. Wallpaper is making a comeback, even on ceilings. Technically this trend is called ceiling paper, and it can transform a room in the same way wallpapered walls can. Here are some ideas: Make a statement. Just like a colorful throw cushion on a neutral couch, jazzy ceiling paper can make a boring room bold. Choose a fun print or a color that shows off your personality and style. Highlight a space. Do you have a home office tucked to
one side of your family room? How about a cozy reading nook? Add colorful ceiling paper to one portion of a room to divide the space naturally. Accent, accent, accent. Tie your ceiling paper into the rest of your decorating scheme by choosing the right accent color. Whether you go with a solid, stripes or a soft pattern, a papered ceiling done right can complete the look of a room. When wallpapering a ceiling, it may be best to bring a pro as the application can be tricky. If
Eye on Concord
Concord task force explores racial justice in our county GEORGE FULMORE Special to the Pioneer
About 60 people attended the Concord meeting of the Racial Justice Task Force Community Forum at Mt. Diablo High School on Nov. 6. However, only a handful were from Concord. And at least half of those at the meeting were either on the 17member task force or part of the community forum presentation team. No leaders of the Concord Latino community were present, nor any Concord elected officials or schoolaged teens. One person said notifications for the meeting were too limited. Still, the meeting provided a good overview of the task force and included an hour for public comment. The Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors created the Racial Justice Task Force in April 2016 with a three-fold mandate: 1. Research and identify consensus measures within the county to reduce racial disparities in the criminal justice system. 2. Plan and oversee implementation of the measures once identified. 3. Report back to the Board of Supervisors on progress made toward reducing racial disparities within the criminal
justice system. In the presentation, it was noted that juvenile delinquent acts have dropped significantly over the past several decades nationwide. But the percentage of those acts by minority youth has risen significantly. In Contra Costa County, blacks are more likely to be arrested than other racial/ethnic groups. Blacks are also more likely to be referred to probation, and black and Latino youth referred to probation are more likely to be retained later. In the open comment section, many people voiced opinions about racial disparities in law enforcement and the courts, including:
• “Implicit bias” by police and authorities, in general, makes minority kids more vulnerable to being arrested. • Poverty and single-parent families can lead to kids feeling disconnected in the school system. This can cause them to join gangs as a substitute for a solid family relationship. • Police on campus or being called to a campus have full authority to override school administrators, but police can make bad decisions in these situations. • Police may not understand the teenage brain and its developmental stages.
• There needs to be more funding for programs to help kids with mental illness. • Police need “niceness” training. • There has been a lack of funding for the county’s restorative justice program. • There is a lack of systematic data collection. • The U.S. has a history of racial discrimination that goes back to the 1600s. The majority Anglo/Asian culture expects minority kids to be arrested and incarcerated at a higher percentage than whites or Asians. There is a sense of privilege and benign neglect, and the dominant society does not see a need for change. • The jail expansion in Richmond that involves ICE detention will require a continual stream of deportation candidates to fill the space the county rents to ICE. This will be a financial issue. The Concord meeting was the first of five in the county in the next few weeks. The task force plans to do another round of district meetings in six months to report on progress based on input from the community forums. The task force meets at 1 p.m. the first Wednesday of the month, usually in Martinez.
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This fall, ARF worked with partner shelters evacuating animals during both Hurricane Irma and the NorCal wildfires. Following the harrowing tales of families not allowed to evacuate with pets during Hurricane Katrina, 30 states now have laws and/or disaster plans that provide for evacuation, rescue, and recovery of animals. The number of recent natural disasters should remind us all to have pet evacuation plans. The best precaution you can take for your pet is having them microchipped. Should
you are a DIY person, make sure to properly prep your ceiling by removing any paint and electrical fixtures. Experts also suggest creating a ceiling blueprint for precise application.
Q. How can I make my new home a healthy environment that is free of bacteria and pollutants? A. Many healthy home maintenance tasks are simple and can be done in minutes. Small actions can make a difference. Here are some tips provided by NeighborWorks of America: A clean home. Vacuum your home with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) product regularly to keep dust from accumulating. Clean with products that are non-toxic, biodegradable and unscented.
A maintained home. Don’t let your home fall into disarray. Make minor repairs as soon as you are able and check the structure and systems in the home periodically. A safe home. Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors monthly to ensure they are in proper working order. If you have children, take steps to childproof the home. This might include locking up chemical-based products, installing cordless window treatments and covering wall outlets. A pest-free home. Adopt Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies to keep pests from entering the home. This could include sealing cracks in the structure of the home and storing food in airtight containers.
A dry home. Inspect your home – roof, gutters and plumbing fixtures – for leaks regularly and fix them as soon as you are able. Watch for signs of water under the house. A well-ventilated home. Promote air circulation, particularly in the kitchen and bathrooms, with an efficient ventilation system. Be sure the system moves air outside of the house. These steps should help you have a healthy household. After all, a healthy home is a happy home. 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.
Bisso family cultivated farming history in Concord
CAROL LOnGSHORE
YESTERYEAR
I recently attended a 107th birthday party for Eleanor Bisso, a member of one of Concord’s pioneer families. Her classmate at Mt. Diablo High School, Erminio Trevino, also celebrates his 107th birthday this month. They both still reside in Concord. The Bisso family story was one of personal sacrifice and sorrow, leading to ultimate success. Luigi and Rosa Bisso married in the 1880s. They were both 18. They were excited to make America their home but only had enough money for one passage. Rosa stayed in Italy, while Luigi came to work on a farm in Concord. He began making farm tools by hand and sold most of them in Oakland, walking to and fro carrying his tools. Ten years after their wed-
Eleanor Bisso is the little girl in this family photo. She recently turned 107. The Bisso family farm was on Concord Ave., next to the street that bears their name.
ding day, Luigi had farmland of his own and sent for Rosa. In the years that followed, they had six children – three boys and three girls. When Luigi was 38, he and three of the children died during a flu epidemic. Rosa was left with three boys aged 2, 4 and 6. She knew little about farming, the land was mortgaged and she had no money. The Concord property had a spring on it, which made it valuable. She took to cultivating the land with bare hands and a hoe, with help from her three children. Good neighbors gave them food whenever there was a little extra. The sons, John, Genezio and Joseph, made that little farm grow on land from where Chili’s is now on
Concord Avenue to Bisso Lane. When they were older, they opened a produce store on Salvio. John married Lena Ginochio, the daughter of longtime friend Giovanni Ginochio. They had Eleanor in 1910. John lived until 100, I’m told, and Lena until 106. As I greeted Eleanor, she chatted about her old friends and how she wasn’t sure where they were. Many of the visitors who came to wish her well that day were the children of those friends. It was very touching.
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@claytonpioneer.com.
Include pets in your disaster plan preparation
you become separated, microchipping speeds up reunion times. ARF microchips all animals upon intake, but you can take pets to any veterinarian’s office for the quick procedure. Complete registration either online or by mail. That said, if you microchipped your pet years ago, ensure that all address and phone information is current. Most Californians prepare earthquake kits with essentials in case of an emergency. Pet owners should consider a pet emergency kit essential as well. This kit includes a few days’ worth of food, bottled water, litter or sanitation bags, a spare leash or harness and medication at a minimum. This is also a great location to keep a copy of veterinary records,
microchip information, and photos of your pet. Don’t forget to also add some favorite treats, fun toys, and a blanket or towel that smells like home. Transporting an animal during an emergency often proves the greatest challenge, especially if a frightened pet only associates a crate with trips to the vet. While not always the most esthetically pleasing, incorporating crates into a household area around your pet helps build familiarity. This is especially helpful for cats, who form strong attachments to their environments and feel the most stress leaving their comfort zones. Keep a bag of treats with your crate for enticement is helpful. Plan for how to load animals and other essential items in your
vehicle so you’re not frustrated in a crisis. Finally, your greatest asset during a disaster is a plan. Determine who will evacuate your pet in an emergency if you’re not home. Don’t forget to discuss where you can meet in case communication is down. Also, consider where you can stay or board your pet long-term in case you cannot immediately return home. Planning for a disaster isn’t the most pleasant task, but it brings peace of mind. Make certain that your entire family – and that includes your furry ones – are ready to leave at a moment’s notice if required.
Elena Bicker is the Executive Director of Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation. She can be reached at (925) 2561ARF (1273)
November 24, 2017
Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
Survey results show little agreement on housing issues
EDI BIRSAN PULSE OF
CONCORD
In the recent summer poll at www.pulseofconcord.com, I asked if people believe that building market-rate housing would halt the rapid increase in non-market rate housing. 6.4 percent strongly agree. 18.4 somewhat agree. 21.2 neither agree nor disagree. 10.0 somewhat disagree. 20.8 completely disagree. 23.2 do not know. With 24.8 percent agreeing and 30.8 percent disagreeing and everyone else in the middle, this is the heart of the argument on housing. The market-driven group, who put their faith in supply and demand, say that building more market-rate housing will increase supply and it has to have an impact to hold the rise of the unaffordable housing. The other side says that more market rate has not been seen
to impact the lower end folks, other than to highlight and emphasize an increase in their rents to come closer to the market rate. Their argument is that more market rate brings in greater gentrification and greater pressure to drive the poor out and convert the affordable housing (that is not regulated) to be upgraded for higher profits. Concord does not have any regulations on rents. Even if a building is in default of safety repairs, the landlord can raise rents within the state notifications. City rent rules, if they were ever passed, would only apply to buildings and multifamily units built more than 20 years ago. The city currently has several thousand market-rate housing units under way. That market is defined as $2,000$3,200 a month in rent, depending on the number of bedrooms in the apartment. We have seen a large increase in the non-market rates as the demand for housing supports new development and echoes through the neighborhoods. Apartment complexes have been flipped several times,
with one going from $4 million to more than $20 million in 10 years. This drives up demand for immediate return and, thus, higher rents. Here are the decision points this perception ties into: 1. In the base development, do we put an early emphasis on housing (both market and non) to make things affordable overall? 2. More housing means more people and more retail sales, which is good for cities that have sales tax as their largest income. Bad we must suffer more traffic. 3. More retail means more retail jobs, but those are lowincome jobs. That leads to more demand for low-rent housing, which if not available in the area makes for more demand on transit and traffic. 4. Residential areas are the most expensive part of local service costs for safety, sewers, water, schools and the like. 5. Commercial non-retail has the highest-paying jobs, but the commute puts a demand for housing closer to those jobs. More demand by those with more money also drives up prices.
How we balance and answer these factors that tie into housing is called politics. The reality of the cause and effect in these days of emotional politics and accusations of fake news or alternate facts has helped destroy the impact of rational approaches. People simply assign their support to whatever is out there that agrees with their perception. So perception is more and more important. The process that we use to alter perceptions also has a name: politics. Some say we are doomed. I say we fight for reason. Keep your perceptions counting at www.pulseofconcord.com.
Send comments to EdiBirsan@gmail.com or 510-812-8180.
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Ring in the holidays with Tamales Fest – and bikes HOURIG AYANYAN MCCRAY BIKE CONCORD
As I started riding my bicycle in 2015 after a long slumber, I was delighted to find a wonderful bicycle culture in the Bay Area. Many local organizations and businesses cater to this vibrant culture. As I was looking for local biking groups, I came across Bike Concord. One of my earliest introductions to the group was participating in an organized family group ride. I knew by the end of it that I wanted to be an active part of this volunteer-based organi-
zation. I’ve participated in many Bike Concord events to help make our streets safer for bicyclists and pedestrians, along with fun riding events. I am currently part of the organizing team for our upcoming fundraiser, the third annual Tamales and Bikes Fest. We are excited to be partnering with the Todos Santos Business Association Arts Foundation to bring the fest to Todos Santos Plaza in downtown Concord at 3 p.m. Dec. 2. We previously held this fun event at the historic Keller House, co-hosted by Monument Impact. Our goal this year was to participate in holiday festivities, including the annual tree lighting ceremony at the plaza. We will be providing
delicious tamales from local restaurants, with many wonderful raffle prizes donated from local businesses that believe in our mission and commitment to our community. At the end of the night, Santa himself will be leading a slow bicycle ride around the plaza to display our decorated bikes. We invite all residents of Concord and neighboring cities to join us to help raise funds for our cause. One of the most significant milestones we will be sharing at the event is our community bike shop. We are working with the Mount Diablo School District to start a bicycle mechanic training program for students at Olympic High School. In addition, we will be serving the larger community at the
bike shop through programming at other allowed times. The bike shop project has been in the works for several years. Many Bike Concord members worked relentlessly to make this vision a reality. Smitty Ardrey and Ady Olvera spearheaded this effort and reached out to many local leaders and businesses. We finally got the opportunity to work with the local school district to secure a location. We hope you can join us with your bikes as we build on the success of previous years. Pre-order tamales and learn more at www.Tamales.BikeConcord.org.
McCray is a volunteer with Bike Concord.
Don’t delay – back up your hard drive now If machines could talk, they would probably say: “You humans have such a penchant for forgetting hard drive backups, despite the fact that your future depends upon the past.” Machines don’t understand the human condition, at least not yet. And people don’t anticipate that machines can – and do – fail. Computers are reliable machines, so there is a tendency for people to overlook what might happen to their data. That is until all your photos, contracts and documents are lost, and your business shuts down. Self-preservation is a human reaction to loss. Once it happens, we will do nearly anything to get it back. But recovery of missing information can cost thousands of dollars. Recovering a failed hard drive (where data is stored) may entail Herculean efforts, which translates into lots of money. The typical human justifications for not performing backups are cost, time, effort and mostly lack of skill or
WILL CLAnEY
TECH TALK
knowledge. People hear that it’s really easy to do a backup, but fuhgeddaboutit – who has time? I am here to state again: Backups are easy and inexpensive compared to the alternative of data loss and attempts to recover it. Data recovery is a 50-50 proposition at best. About half the time, you can’t get the data back. The other half of the time, it is expensive to do so. Imagine the time, effort and distress you would endure to reassemble your files from scratch. There are several backup solutions: Purchase an external backup USB drive,
buy an Internet backup service or use a managed service. To do it yourself, buy a one or two terabyte external hard drive, install software and manage the backup. If you’re not interested in doing it yourself, contact an Internet backup provider like Mozy or Carbon Copy. But be prepared to set up and manage the service yourself. They have good tools to assist you, but it’s still self-reliant. Companies like Amazon, Microsoft Azure or Barracuda sell enterprise services, but they are expensive and intended for large enterprise companies with IT staffs. If you’re still not convinced, you likely need a local service provider (a managed service provider, or MSP) to do it for you. The MSP will do everything – install, setup, run, monitor and maintain your backups and archives and even restore the data if you need to, starting at about $10 a month. It’s simple and safe. If you want to know more, call me or go to wikipedia.org and search “comparison of
online backup services” and have fun shopping. William Claney is an independent tech writer and former owner of Computers USA in the Clayton Station. Email questions or comments to willclaney@gmail.com.
Page 9
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Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
November 24, 2017
De La Salle last football team standing…again JAY BEDECARRÉ Concord Pioneer
De La Salle is once again the last local team standing as the Spartans seek their 26th consecutive North Coast Section football championship next Saturday evening, Dec. 2, at Dublin High where DLS will be meeting a familiar foe, Pittsburg. Clayton Valley Charter was the most recent victim of De La Salle as the Ugly Eagles fell 45-7 in the NCS Open Division semi-finals last Friday in Concord. Pitt earned its finals berth—-and most likely a spot in the NorCal Regional Division I Bowl Game should they lose in the section finals—-with a 16-7 win the next night over San Ramon Valley. Pitt, coached by Herc Pardi, defeated De La Salle 35-27 in the 1991 NCS championship game. That’s significant in that the Spartans haven’t lost another game to a California team north of Fresno since. During that steak of nearly 300 games DLS and Pitt have met 13 times in the NCS playoffs including seven De La Salle victories over the Pirates in Section championship games. Concord rivals DLS and CVCHS have met in the Open Division semi-finals two years running since the NCS started this new division for the best teams among its 123 football-
playing schools. In the semi last Friday at Owen Owens Field De La Salle ran only one play in the first quarter but it was a 75-yard touchdown scamper by senior Kairee Robinson. Aided by a muffed punt by Robinson, the Ugly Eagles controlled the ball and the clock the rest of the quarter, running 19 consecutive plays but failed to score. When the Spartans got the ball for the first time in the second quarter sophomore Shamar Garrett finished went on a 71-yard sprint to a TD. The next time the Spartans offense was on the field it took all of four plays for a third TD as quarterback Andrew Jones hit a wide-open Jack Powers for a 46-yard TD pass and the game quickly slipped away from the Eagles, who were down 240 at halftime. Eventually De La Salle built a 45-0 lead with a running clock before Kyree Williams raced 80 yards for Clayton Valley Charter’s only score with 2:32 left to play. That long run brought CVCHS’s total yardage for the game to 191. DLS ended with 360, including 302 on the ground as Robinson gained 127 and Garrett 117. Each of the Spartan ball carriers scored two touchdowns. In the game of Concord rivals who both rely on rushing as their primary
Photo courtesy Clayton Valley Charter football
It didn’t happen enough during their nCS semi-final last Friday but Clayton Valley Charter defenders bottled up the De La Salle ball carrier on this play. ugly Eagles stopping the Spartans are, from left, Leke Fashola (11), Afu Tomasi (57), Josiah Dobbins and Chris Gonzalez (94). CVCHS coach Tim Murphy is pleased that all of those players except Gonzalez will be back on the team next fall when he expects to have about 15 returning starters.
offense, DLS threw just three passes in the game. De La Salle coach Justin Alumbaugh said, “The defense was physical, the wide receivers were getting open and our quarterbacks were managing the game well.”
Coach Tim Murphy’s six years in charge of Clayton Valley Charter has resulted in six successive undefeated league championships and an overall record of 68-12, with only five of those 12 losses to Bay Area teams, including three to DLS
and one to Pitt. In 2015 CVCHS was playing in Division II where they made two straight CIF State championship games and now they have been in the Open Division playoffs two years running. The Ugly Eagles started the season with only a handful of returning starters and lost a pair of games to out-of-state teams before running off eight straight victories moving into the playoffs. MDSA Elite united 06 girls took Murphy expects to have first place in the fifth annual Im15 returning next year with a pact Boofest while enjoying the team that got to experience a Halloween weekend in their playoff game against the best Rosie the Riveter alternate uniof the best. forms. The local under 12 team De La Salle has now run had three shutouts in four games off seven straight wins since in the Wizards flight and edged losing to Bishop Gorman in Pacific FC Pride 3-2 in their closLas Vegas. The Spartans have est match. The team includes, scored in the 40s in all of from left, coach Matt Stephens, Temi Okeowo, Katelyn Calderon, those games. They have their eyes firmly set on returning Emery Stephens, Julia Lovelace, to the CIF State Bowl ChamJuliana Gonzales, Layla Solis, pionship game for the 12th natalya Modawar, Renata successive year, an unpreceSalerno, Anja Perreira, Lilly Fosdented feat in California. kett, Morgan Grove, Kate Bullis and coach Dylan Perreira. The team standing in their way—Pittsburg—hopes to go back to the future and recapture that 1991 magic.
MDSA teams win cups, tournament
MDSA Arsenal 2004 Elite finished first in the Silver/Bronze division of the Cal north District II Fall Cup in Morgan Hill last month. The local team finished with four straight wins by scoring 15 goals and allowing only four with two two shutouts. They defeated FC Milpitas Platanitos 04 in the championship game 4-2. Arsenal includes, front row from left, Garrett Alton, Kyle Pacak, Titus Bishop, Cristian Galvan, Caleb Regalado, Alex Walker; back row, coach Fernando Galvan, Keegan Boustead, nolan Martin, Shawn Canada, Hector Barragan, Alex Hockenbery, Aidan nolan, Miles Davis, Jason Shin and coach Andrew Boustead. not pictured, coach Jason Bishop.
NORTHGATE EDGED The Broncos rode the right arm of junior Jack Fulp, the Diablo Athletic League Valley Division Offensive MVP, to the third seed in the NCS Division II playoffs. The Broncos defeated Hayward 56-20 in their NCS opener but then fell behind Ukiah 35-14 at halftime last Saturday before rallying with a 20-6 second-half advantage but fell a single score short 41-34 in the quarterfinals. In the week before the Ukiah game head coach Ben Ballard was honored by the Oakland Raiders as high school coach of the week. The Raiders and NFL Foundation donated $1000 and $1000 in Gatorade products to the Broncos. Ygnacio Valley was eliminated in its opening-round NCS DIV game to Hercules but firstyear head coach Clyde Byrd says, “This year we laid the foundation for future success in football at Ygnacio Valley. Twothirds of the students on the football team have a 3.0 or higher GPA. We expect to be a contender for a league title next year and do better in the playoff than what we did this year.”
Photos courtesy of MDSA
MDSA Riptide emerged as champions of the AYSO 2C Area Cup this month in the 12 under boys division. Taking second place in the Area Cup which featured five AYSO Regions were MDSA Heat (10u boys) and MDSA Army Girls (10u girls). The Riptide team includes, front row from left, Jack Bullis, Eric Catalano, Isaiah Hernandez, Colton Jorgensen, Jack Ferguson, Austin Grove, Semyon Kimos, Andrew Platt, Jack Gold; back row, coaches John Bullis and Brenda Ferguson. not pictured, Joey Mucha and Alessandro Accardo.
Photo by Phillip Walton courtesy SportStars Magazine
In the north Coast Section Open Division semi-final game last Friday De La Salle ran just one play on offense in the first quarter against crosstown rival Clayton Valley Charter but it was a typical burst by Kairee Robinson (25) for 75 yards and a touchdown. Robinson ended up with 127 yards rushing and two touchdowns as DLS moved to within one win of its 26th successive nCS football title with a 45-7 victory over CVCHS.
November 24, 2017
Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
Page 11
wants to play football in college and pursue a degree in business. His Warriors coach Clyde Byrd says, “De’Vaughn has demonstrated the characteristics that we want in Ygnacio Valley football student athletes. He is raising his GPA and taking honor classes. He became a leader on the football team and in the YV community.” The school’s athletic director Mark Tran adds, “De’Vaughn was a leader and was focused in what he needed to do and made sure he got it done.”
Athlete Spotlight De’Vaughn Brown Grade: Senior School: Ygnacio Valley High Sports: Football, Basketball
Brown transferred to Ygnacio Valley last summer from Deer Valley in Antioch and he ended up leading the Warriors in receiving yards and touchdowns as a tight end. That was impressive but it was his work as a linebacker
on defense that earned him first team all-Diablo Athletic League Valley Division honors as YVHS returned to the North Coast Section playoffs. His play on the field has earned him multiple Division I scholarship offer. Brown
The Concord Pioneer congratulates De’Vaughn 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.
All-league honors presented to athletes in 6 fall sports
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BEN DAYNES CONCORD HIGH
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GERMAN ACOSTA NORTHGATE HIGH
JAY BEDECARRÉ Concord Pioneer
2nd team-Maya Gonzales, Emily Lyons (CV), Asal Bastani, Natashza Trejo (Con), Jordan Sapp, Grace Wyzykowski (BC), Jinky Mangubat, Maya Miller (MD), Fatina Fajardo, Kristin Ly (YV); HM-Jenny Chavez, Andrea Diaz (Con), Juna Hwang, Sophia Larner (BC), Rylie Velez, Victoria Skousen (CV), Mariah Ford, Mariana Arzate (MD), Cecelia Seba, Ariann Norori (YV). Girls Volleyball FOOTHILL 1st team-Ali Silva (NG); 2nd team-Aubrey Roberts, Chiara Gatto (NG); HM-Kinsey Anderson (NG). VALLEY Co-MVP-Zippy Dudzizk (BC); 1st teamAlaysia Mitchell (CV), Emily Hockenbery, Jontara West (Con), Elizabeth Dutton (BC); 2nd team- Brenna Dougan, Genna Love (CV), Becca Jones, Gillian Seguerre (BC); HM- Myana Hollingsworth (Con), Kylie Halliday (CV), Elisabeth Dudziak (BC), Melissa O’Driscoll (MD). Water Polo FOOTHILL Boys 2nd team-Ryan Henderson (NG); HM-Hunter Peeff (NG). FOOTHILL Girls 2nd team-Naomi Jenkins (NG); HM-Jordan Sibley (NG). VALLEY Boys: 1st teamJack Coppa, Cal Brown (CV), Jaren Lopez (Con); 2nd teamJD Williams, Teddy Conger (CV), Dom Jenevein (Con); HM- Gabe Martin (CV), Jack Lake (Con). VALLEY Girls: MVP Goalie-Jordan Frost (CV); 1st team- Sydney Skow, Brooke Johnson, Camylle Callahan (CV), Megan Wadman, Marina DeLaluna (Con); 2nd TeamCamille Cline, Margaret York (CV), Rosie Santa Maria (Con); HM- Madelyn Vines (CV), Sara Corkran (Con). Football FOOTHILL Offense 1st team- Junior Alatini, James Teofilo, Brandon Mello, Ben Acebo (CV); 2nd team- KJ Gardner, Dylan Chrisco (CV), Austin Williams (Con). Defense 1st team-Dusty Mitchell, Kitione Tau, Gabriel
Dobbins (CV), Ben Daynes (Con); 2nd team-Duane Alatini, Matt Huffaker, Cade Carter, Ryan Wilson, Garrett Gonguet (CV). VALLEY Offense MVP – Jack Fulp (NG), Defense MVP-Isaac Hodgins (BC). Offense 1st team-Justin Jackson, Jayden Jackson, Jack Seely (BC), David Ma’ake, Christian Wonder, German Acosta (NG), Tyrik Daniels (YV); 2nd team-Quincy Rhone (BC), Soren Peterson, Preston Schreck, Nate Moore (NG); Fernando Verduzco, Andy Palacios (YV). Defense 1st team- Austin Sharp, Tyler Warner (BC), Joey Marondola, Saluni Semisi, DiMarlo Ventura (NG), De’Vaughn Brown, Eddie Rankin (YV); 2nd team- Waryum Azhar (YV), Skyler Morford, Nick Stark, Joey Giannini (NG), Niko Iosefa, Connor Russo, Alec Brennan, Scott Rodriguez (BC).
Northgate quarterback Jack Fulp and his junior classmate golfer Skye Mingming along with Clayton Valley Charter sophomore goalie Jordan Frost were honored as Diablo Athletic League most valuable players when fall sports athletes were elected by coaches votes in the DAL and East Bay Athletic League. Berean Christian also had MVP honorees in girls sophomore volleyball player Zippy Dudzizk, football defender Isaac Hodgins and sophomore tennis player Aya Miller. Local DAL schools, DLS and Carondelet athletes on fall sports all-league teams:
DIABLO ATHLETIC LEAGUE Cross County Boys: 1st team- Dylan White (Clayton Valley Charter), Michael Wheeler (Northgate). Girls: 1st team- Rayna Stanziano (Concord), Samantha Schauman (CV); 2nd teamKelly Osterkamp (CV), Sarah Wheeler (NG). Girls Golf FOOTHILL MVP- Skye Mingming (NG); 1st teamDymphna Ueda, Gia Feliciano (NG); 2nd team-Serena Billeci (NG); Honorable MentionSam Ricafrente (NG). VALLEY 2nd team- Jenna Fassio, Kiana Fong (CV); HMReyna Khalileh, Audrey Vincent (CV), Kalina Campos (Ygnacio Valley). Girls Tennis FOOTHILL 1st team-Kate Lee, Sofia Zaprianov, Kylie Choi-Antonina Bazulin (NG); 2nd team-Jessie McCann, Jocy Wirfel-Raquel Aquilar (NG); HM-Kristin Indick (NG). VALLEY MVP-Aya Miller (Berean Christian); 1st teamGianna Nobili (Berean Christian), Trinh Nguyen, Samantha Alexander (Con), Tracy Nguyen, Nelly Elahmadie (CV), Eimy Gallardo, Katherine Aquilar (Mt. Diablo), Dianna Lopez, Paige Nettles (YV);
EAST BAY ATHLETIC LEAGUE (DLS boys, Carondelet girls) Water Polo Boys: 1st team – Liam Ward, Tanner Mercer, Joey Grywczynski; 2nd team-JP Walsh. Girls: 1st team-Alex Brown; 2nd team – Samantha Mein; HM – Madi Ohrman. Girls Golf 1st Team- Madelyn Gamble, Angela Bagasbas; 2nd team- Carissa Wu. Cross Country Boys: 1st team- Connor Livingston, Harrison Fisher. Girls: 2nd team-Clare Schumann. Girls Volleyball 2nd team- Catherine Helgeson; HM-Catherine Vaccaro. Football Offense 1st team- Kairee Robinson, Jack Powers, Luke Ogburn, John Deitchman, 2nd team- Josh Allan. Defense 1st team- Isaiah Foskey, Henry To’oto’o; 2nd team- Luke Freeman, Brandon Riso, Jhasi Wilson; HM- Jackson Walsh.
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November 24, 2017
11 local prep athletes ink college commitments JAY BEDECARRÉ Concord Pioneer
Four Concord high schools feted 11 seniors this month as they signed their National Letters of Intent committing to play their sport in colleges from coast to coast. Carondelet, Clayton Valley Charter, Concord and De La Salle had student athletes formalize their college choices Nov. 8 in front of fellow students at their schools. Softball player Morgyn Wynne at Concord and basketballer Garrett Pascoe at CVCHS were the only signees at their schools. Carondelet had five young women sign on the first NLI day of the 2017-18 school year. Golfers Angela Bagasbas and
Jay Bedecarré photos
Carondelet’s Angela Bagasbas, Annika Borrelli, Lauren Zelnik, Sofia Earle and Sarah Finkle are future collegians.
Annika Borrelli, softball pitcher Sofia Earle, lacrosse player Lauren Zelnik and equestrian Sarah Finkle each made their college choices official. At De La Salle, baseball players Austin Elder and Trace
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“One of the games last spring that really stood out to me was when we played Carondelet in the NCS quarterfinals. She pitched amazing, only allowing three hits and she also hit the game-winning hit in the bottom of the seventh to help us win 2-1.” Four-year varsity golfers Bagasbas and Borrelli are fresh off winning the NCS championship, their second in three years. Bagabas is going to UC Irvine and Borelli to the University of San Francisco. The duo have helped the Cougars advance to the CIF NorCal Championships three consecutive years and the CIF State Championships in 2015 and 2016. As a sophomore, Bagasbas was the NCS Division I individual champion, shooting even par in the tournament. As a junior golf player, she took home medalist honors at the 2016 AJGA Junior Championships in Michigan and in 2017 she won the California State Fair Championship. Earle is a three-year varsity letter winner and starting
MORGYN WYNNE CONCORD HIGH
Tammaro, swimmer Daniel O’Connell and wrestler Peyton pitcher for the Carondelet softOmania completed the local ball team who will be going signings. Elder and Tammaro down the road a bit to Saint have been part of back-toMary’s College in Moraga. She back North Coast Section has earned all-East Bay AthletSpartan championship teams. ic League honors and in 80 O’Connell was second in the innings pitched as a junior, she NCS 100 butterfly last spring recorded 118 strikeouts, had while Omania will be looking six shutouts and a perfect for his third straight NCS indigame. vidual wrestling title this winter Finkle will be going across and another podium finish at the county to the University of State. Georgia to join their equestrian After watching Wynne sign team. She has been showing her NLI to the University of horses since she was six-yearsKansas, Concord High softball coach Megan Coddington said, “Since her freshman year, Morgyn has been one of the most focused and determined players that I have had in my program. Her main goal has always been to play softball at the next level. Very excited to see that dream come true for her.” Wynne has been an allleague player her first three years and she was DVAL MVP pitcher as a sophomore. The Minutemen have won two North Coast Section champiPhoto courtesy DeLa Salle High School onships during her three seaAustin Elder, Daniel O’Connell, Peyton Omania and Trace sons. The coached added, Tammaro moving on to college from De La Salle High.
Sports Shorts
GARRETT PASCOE CLAYTON VALLEY CHARTER
old, acquired multiple allaround and circle championship finishes at major national equestrian events and, most recently, with her horse Taco became the All-American Quarter Horse Congress Champion in her division. Zelnik will be playing her fourth varsity season for Carondelet lacrosse in the spring before heading off to Catholic University of America in Washington, DC. She received the team’s Cougar Award and was an all-EBAL selection as a sophomore and during her junior year was awarded the prestigious U.S. Marine Corps Distinguished Athlete Award. Pascoe will be looking for his fourth all-league honors this winter for defending Diablo Athletic League Valley Division champion Eagles basketball before he will be moving east to Boston University. He’s been all-league each year and was DAL co-MVP last season. He has a 4.2 GPA and is beginning his third season as team captain.
DIABLO FC BENEFIT CRAB FEED FEB. 2 AT CENTRE CONCORD
The 15th annual Diablo FC benefit crab feed, raffle and
MT. DIABLO HIGH HALL OF FAME CRAB FEED JAN. 20 dance is set for Friday, Feb. 2, at Centre Concord. Tickets will be
The annual Mt. Diablo High School Hall of Fame crab feed is Saturday, Jan. 20, at Zio Fraedo’s in Pleasant Hill. At the crab feed Trippi Collaro will be inducted posthumously into the MDHS Hall of Fame with his family and friends attending. Tickets are available for the discount price of $55 until Dec. 31, before increasing to $60. For more information call Lou Adamo at 212-9332 or email louadamo@gmail.com.
on sale shortly for the event that benefits programs for the local competitive youth soccer club affiliated with the San Jose Earthquakes. Visit diablofc.org for more details and to get information on event sponsoring and purchasing crab feed tickets.
CLAYTON VALLEY HOLIDAY YOUTH BASEBALL CAMP ACCEPTING REGISTRATIONS
Clayton Valley Charter High School baseball coaching staff CONCORD AMERICAN LITTLE LEAGUE and players are offering a Christmas (Dec. 27-28) holiday baseball camp. The camp for ages 6-14 focuses on the skills necesOPENS SPRING REGISTRATION Receive a $20 early bird discount if you register before Dec. sary to be a successful player including batting, fielding, pitching 31 for 2018 Concord American Little League spring baseball. and throwing. Sessions are held from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Clayton Valley Varsity Baseball Facility. Contact Eagles head coach Register online anytime at callbaseball.org. Casey Coakley at uglyeaglebaseball@gmail.com with questions HAILEY PASCOE SUFFERS ACL INJURY SAME DAY or to register. AS
LEHIGH BASKETBALL TEAMMATE
Former Clayton Valley Charter High School standout Hailey Pascoe had an abrupt end to her junior basketball season at Lehigh University when she tore her ACL in a pre-season practice. The injury occurred about five minutes after her freshman teammate Ann-Marie Jacobs had the same injury. Pascoe, who played in all 30 games last season for the Mountain Hawks, was performing a step-back dribble when she landed awkwardly and tore her ACL. She was the CVCHS female 2014-15 athlete of the year and was two-time league basketball MVP. Her Leigh roommate and teammate, junior Meagan Eripret, says that while she is unable to participate physically, Pascoe is still making her presence known on the court. “Hailey is the strongest person I know and she is taking this as positively as she can,” Eripret said. “The person that she is makes her a great leader on our team and I think that will stay true this season.”
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REGISTRATION OPEN FOR ALL OUT SPORTS LEAGUES PROGRAMS , BASKETBALL TRYOUTS
Youth basketball and adult and youth volleyball leagues offered by All Out Sports Leagues in Clayton are taking registration online. Blaze club basketball tryouts for youth 8-14 will be held in Clayton Community Gym on Sunday, Dec. 10. For complete information on All Out Sports leagues, clinics and other programs, visit alloutsportsleague.com.
BREAKFAST WITH SANTA DEC . 17 BENEFITING NORTHGATE ATHLETICS
The Northgate High School athletic department is hosting its annual Breakfast with Santa at Boundary Oak Golf Course on Sunday, Dec. 17. The event will include an all-you-can-eat breakfast, visit with Santa and hug one of Santa’s elves and take family or silly friends pictures with a beautiful winter holiday backdrop. CONTINENTAL LITTLE LEAGUE The breakfast is from 9-11 a.m. Whole Foods is donating the food and there will be sports memorabilia raffled, including a ONLINE REGISTRATION UNDERWAY Continental Little League baseball and softball for boys and signed Joe Montana jersey. Call 938-0900 or visit northgatebrongirls ages 4-16 has opened online registration for the 2018 sea- cos.org for more info. son that runs from Feb. 1 - June 1. Cost ranges from $175 - $225, YGNACIO VALLEY HIGH ANNOUNCES depending on the player’s age. Players must live within league 2018 HALL OF FAME CLASS boundaries. Online registration and more information is at conYgnacio Valley High School will hold its sixth annual Hall of tinentalbaseball.com. Fame induction dinner on May 19, 2018 to induct six athletes, DIABLO FC OFFERING PLAYER EVALUATIONS one coach and one team. The inductees include the 1971 football team and swimming coach Gino Barsuglia. Athletes being AFTER FALL LEAGUE Diablo FC under 8 through U19 competitive teams (birth honored are Dave Zawatson (Class of 1984, football), Gary years 1999-2011) hold ongoing player evaluations for new Schneider (1970, football and track), Shanita Bryant Williams prospective players after the conclusion of fall leagues. Visit dia- (2000, track, cross country and basketball), Rob Tomlinson blofc.org to get more information on the club and signup for the (1986, football and baseball), Craig Johnson (1975, baseball) and Alan Bell (1968, swimming). For more information and to purappropriate age group evaluation. chase dinner tickets visit yvathletichof.com.
CLAYTON VALLEY LITTLE LEAGUE TAKING PLAYER REGISTRATIONS ONLINE
Registration for Clayton Valley Little League is now open for the spring 2018 season. Baseball programs for players ages four to 15 and softball for girls six to 16 are both open for registration. Tryouts are in January. The CVLL program includes a Challenger Division for players with disabilities and special needs. Players must reside within the CVLL boundaries. who sign up by Dec. 2 receive a $40 early bird discount per player. Go to cvll.org for complete information and to register.
NORTHGATE ATHLETICS HOSTS ANNUAL CRAB FEED JAN. 20
The Northgate High School Athletic Boosters will host a crab feed, their largest annual fundraiser, at Centre Concord on Saturday, Jan. 20, from 6 – 11 p.m. The evening includes auction, games and dancing in addition to dinner. Tickets are $70 per person until Dec. 14 and increase to $80 after then. Visit northgatebroncos.org for more information.
Carondelet golf, water polo, volleyball teams excel November 24, 2017
Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
Bizicki, Alex Martinez, Sierra Lofgren and Serena Connel were the other Eagles scorers.
JAY BEDECARRÉ Concord Pioneer
Carondelet High won its second North Coast Section golf championship in three years and its water polo team was runnerup at NCS and advanced to the Northern California Championship semi-finals. Making for a successful fall season the Cougars volleyball team has advanced to the semi-finals of the NorCal Championships. Runners from four Concord schools will be competing this Saturday at the CIF State cross country championships as endof-the-season competitions for fall sports come to a close.
CROSS COUNTRY Runners from De La Salle, Carondelet, Concord and Clayton Valley Charter earned spots in this Saturday’s CIF State cross country championship meet in Fresno after strong performances at the NCS Meet of Champions. Junior Rayna Stanziano followed her second-place finish at the Diablo Athletic League meet with a third-place showing at NCS to qualify for her third successive State Meet in Division III. Dylan White, a CVCHS senior, was second at DAL and then took fifth at NCS DII to also earn a third straight State Meet berth. On the girls side, Eagles
Page 13
Photo courtesy Carondelet High School Athletics
Carondelet’s water polo team were north Coast Section Division II finalists and then reached the semi-finals of the northern California Division II Regional tournament last week before losing to top seed and eventual champion Saint Francis. The team included, front row from left, Gigi Baldacci, Madi Ohrman, Alex Brown, Annika Zapata, Makenzie Orr, Kaitlyn Sheffield; back row, head coach Eric Mein, Marissa Ennis, Kasey Madsen, Payton Martin, Jenna Klein, Kelsey Morris, Sophia Riva, Kiki Mein and assistant coach Sean Joy.
freshman Samantha Schauman was 18th for the top local finish. De La Salle junior Connor Livingston won the Division II boys title, helping the Spartans to third place and a State Meet berth. Seniors Harrison Fisher, James Flanagan, Cameron Ross and Omar Khleif all finished in the top 25 to gain DLS its State Meet ticket. Carondelet’s Claire Schumann got her state Meet invite by finishing 12th as the Cougars’ team was sixth and
Northgate eighth in Division III. Clayton Valley Charter again won both the boys and girls DAL Valley Division titles at Hidden Lakes Park in Martinez. Seniors Matt Hyland, Logan Schoffstall and Alex Garcia were next in line for the Eagles at DAL. On the girls side, freshman Schauman was 16 places faster than any other DAL frosh runner. Kelly Osterkamp, Cassie
teams play at the same site on the same day. This scheduling setup required that each school be placed in the same division for boys and girls basketball, even if one of the genders had been markedly more or less successful than the other. Commissioner Pat Lickiss says the DAL has done away with that setup and “this year boys play all boys (varsity, JV and frosh) games together and girls play all games together. Divisions are set up this year on competitive equity divisions by gender.” For Clayton Valley Charter the new alignment has moved both basketball teams to the stronger Foothill Division. The Concord girls team is also in Foothill while the rest of the local high school hoops teams will be in DAL. Northgate’s two squads are in the Valley Division after playing in Foothill a year ago. De La Salle and Carondelet enjoyed successful winter seasons a year ago. The Spartans won Section championships in Division I basketball and wrestling (both dual and team) while Carondelet won its first-
ever DI girls basketball title. Both schools came up short in losing NCS soccer championship games. Northgate won its first Division II dual team wrestling title and the Bronco girls soccer team was a DII finalist. DAL basketball league play begins Jan. 12 with a double round-robin schedule through Feb. 16. The EBAL schedule goes from Jan. 2 to Feb. 13. NCS basketball begins Feb. 20/21 and concludes Mar. 2/3. The NorCal Championships run Mar. 7-13 with the CIF Regional finals Mar. 17 before the State championship games Mar. 23/24. Soccer season in the DAL begins Jan. 10 with a double round-robin concluding Feb. 9. EBAL play runs Dec. 12 until Feb. 8. The NCS tournament is Feb. 14-24. DAL double dual wrestling meets are Jan. 10, 24 and 31 and Feb. 7. The league championship meet is Feb. 16-17. EBAL have dual meets Jan. 1031. The league tournament is Feb. 16-17 at Cal High. The NCS dual team championships are Feb. 10 with the
WATER POLO At NCS, Carondelet won three consecutive matches to reach the championship against Drake of San Anselmo where they lost 8-4 after trailing by one goal entering the fourth period. The Cougars entered NCS off a runner-up finish at the Julian Szmidt Memorial Tournament in Napa. The NCS result earned Carondelet a berth in the NorCal DII tournament where they defeated Redwood in their opener 7-6 by breaking a 5-5 tie entering the last period before losing to Saint Francis 9-1 in the semis. Clayton Valley Charter was undefeated in DAL girls league play with a two-overtime win 98 over College Park wrapping up the repeat DAL Valley Division championship. The Eagles were seeded 12th in NCS Division I and lost to San Ramon Valley in the first round 13-4 to end their season 21-6. Concord High’s boys team reached its first NCS DII tournament since 2011 before running into a buzz saw against Alameda in the opening round. De La Salle got to the DI quarterfinals.
Dylan White (251) of Clayton Valley Charter and Rayna Stanziano of Concord High are going to their third straight CIF State cross country championships this Saturday in Fresno after strong finishes at the nCS Meet of Champions last Saturday.
onships by one stroke. This NCS championship in three year the tables were turned and years all six players shot a score the Cougars lost a tiebreaker to of 80 or better. Leading the fall short of making their third Cougars, who also won an consecutive State appearance. NCS title in 2015, were senior At NCS, Carondelet Borrelli and freshman Gamble, avenged a second-place East who both carded 18-hole Bay Athletic League tourna- scores of 76. ment championship loss by Northgate won the DAL two strokes to Dougherty Val- Foothill title. The league meet ley after the teams traded wins was cancelled due to the air in their regular season matches. quality issues around the Head coach Rick Eisen- North Bay fires. hour says, “The overall success GIRLS VOLLEYBALL this season of the Carondelet Carondelet got to the NCS varsity golf team is directly related to the team chemistry DII semi-finals after 3-1 set that has been created by our wins over Casa Grande of two senior captains Angela Petaluma and Washington of Bagasbas and Annika Borrelli.” Fremont. They were eliminatGIRLS GOLF In 2016, Carondelet Now in his 18th year in charge ed by top seed Bishop advanced to the State Champi- of the Cougars Rick Eisenhour O’Dowd, which went on to had a team that also included win the championship. The Cougars were then junior Courtney Gaoiran, sophomores Carissa Wu and seeded sixth in the Northern Isabelle O’Brien, and freshmen California Division IV tournaMadelyn Gamble and Madison ment and the team responded with an opening win over CapWu. Carondelet posted a score ital Christian and then upset of 387 at NCS for an eight- third seed West Valley last Satshot victory over second place urday 3-1 despite dropping the Dougherty Valley at Lone Tree opening set. They were Golf Course in Antioch. En matched with seventh seed NCS Championships Feb. 23- route to the school’s second Colfax in Tuesday’s semi-finals. 24 and CIF State Mar. 2-3. Three Concord schools have new varsity coaches this winter. Clayton Valley Charter promoted Aaron Pomeroy to the head coaching position for the Lady Eagles soccer team. Concord High has new varsity basketball coaches in Mike Jaime for the Minutemen boys and We repair Over 35 years Experience Rich Gonzales for the girls. all major Mt. Diablo High has welBruce & Holly Linsenmeyer appliances, comed Ejon Felder as its new Clayton residents boys varsity basketball coach. most major
Winter sports under way with most league schedules beginning in January JAY BEDECARRÉ Concord Pioneer
Winter sports teams have begun non-league games with the Diablo and East Bay athletic leagues starting their league seasons after New Year’s, except for EBAL soccer which kicks off its double-round robin schedule Dec. 12. The balance of DAL and EBAL wrestling, basketball and soccer league schedules begin between January 2 and 12 leading towards North Coast Section competition in February. When the DAL was formed to begin play in the fall of 2016 the new league used the past few season’s results for its seven schools from the former Diablo Valley Athletic League and five Diablo Foothill Athletic League schools to split each sport into Foothill and Valley Divisions to set up competitively equitable playing opportunities. Basketball was the lone exception. To minimize scheduling issues and maximize use of gym space the new super league had its boys and girls
NEW DAL BASKETBALL DIVISIONS Boys Basketball – Foothill: Acalanes, Campolindo, Clayton Valley Charter, College Park, Las Lomas, Miramonte. Valley: Alhambra, Berean Christian, Concord, Mt. Diablo, Northgate, Ygnacio Valley. Girls Basketball – Foothill: Acalanes, Campolindo, Clayton Valley Charter, College Park, Miramonte. Valley: Alhambra, Berean Christian, Las Lomas, Mt. Diablo, Northgate, Ygnacio Valley.
Diablo FC teams win titles at 19th annual Kick or Treat Halloween Classic in Concord
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Diablo FC 07 Premier girls captured the under 11 division at the 19th annual Halloween Kick or Treat Classic with a 52 win over Mustang 07 Black. The local girls team coached by Miguel Gonzalez put in 24 goals in their four games. The team includes, front row from left, Kiara Walker, Gabbi Garcia, Charlotte Orr; middle row, Mahayla Zandonella-Arasa, Luz Hernandez, Carly Lopez, Violet Hernandez, Naomi Chrobak, Mikayla Agnew; back row, Haley Stuart and Julianna Amaya.
Photos courtesy Diablo FC
Diablo FC 09 Premier boys scored 20 goals over four games to take the under 9 division at the Kick or Treat Classic. The team edged Mustang 09 Red 6-5 in the championship game. The team includes, front row from left, Ryan Teixeira, Lucas Jara, River “Rivi” Megyesi; back row, Javier Vazquez Lozano, Lucas Pain, Troy Martinez, Xavier “X” Drobick, Maseeh Zafari, Alexander Hernandez, Elias Freij and coach Guillermo Jara. Not pictured, David Rodriguez Nunez.
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Small kestrel falcons need help to survive
Reservoir in 2006. She’d been seeing these smallest of falcons reliably as they perched on the utility lines beside the road, and they were considered a common bird across North America. STACI HOBBET “Then one day,” she says, ON THE “they were gone.” Alarmed, she contacted MOUNTAIN the Golden Gate Raptor Raptor expert Jenny Observatory to see if its Papka first noted the decline spotters had seen a drop in of kestrels when she was kestrel numbers. No, they working at Los Vaqueros
Daikon: the subtle radish DEBRA MORRIS Pacific Coast Farmers Market
Those long, white, fat, carrot-looking vegetables at the farmers market are daikon radishes, a staple in Asian cuisine. If you’re looking for the flavor of a radish without the sharpness of the red variety, this is the one for you. The milder flavor tastes great and looks good on veggie trays. They can even be a conversation piece as guests wonder what they are. Daikon is Japanese for “great root.” The prolific veg-
etable can grow up to 20 inches in length with a diameter of 4 inches, but most are 10-12 inches long. The crisp texture and mild, sweet taste pairs well with salads and pickled items. The health benefits of daikon have been known for centuries. It is very low in calories, has high amounts of calcium and 27 percent of a day’s dose of Vitamin C. Its antioxidant phenolic compounds have been shown to reduce various types of cancer, particularly of the stomach. It also has anti-inflammatory proper-
BOOKIN’ WITH SUNNY
Toni Morrison’s “Home” is rather like a jigsaw puzzle – another of my favorite pastimes. It is a short novel, not 150 pages, and seems straightforward when first read. Frank Money returns stateside from the war in Korea. He enlisted in the Army to escape his hometown, Lotus, Ga., leaving behind his kid sister Cee – the only person he truly cares for and who cares for him. Cee leaves Lotus shortly after her brother enlists, marrying unwisely and finally ending up abandoned and barely able to earn a living. Frank is demobilized from an integrated Army but returns to an unwelcoming and still segregated country. Unlike most returning soldiers, he does not want to go home. Frank no longer knows where or what home is. Morrison asks the primary question: “Whose house is this?” – from the first line of an epigraph poem she wrote long before the novel. In alternating chapters, “Home” is written in the voice of Frank and an omniscient author. Frank’s point of view is in italics, and his voice is real enough to challenge the author to get his story right. The story opens with Frank’s telling of the hardships that he and his family suffered in a Jim Crow south and of the afternoon he and Cee were hiding in a field watching two magnificent stallions fighting. “We saw them. Like men they stood.” It was not
said everything looked OK. The GGRO counted 611 American kestrels in 2006. But in 2007, the count dropped to 378. Jenny felt it in her bones: Something was going wrong. Researchers realized the trend had been going on for decades across the continental United States. In 2016, the GGRO count was 229. In coastal California, kestrel numbers have dropped 69 percent in the last 40 years. Weighing only 4 ounces, the kestrel hunts like a tiny fairy in open grasslands. It prefers a nesting cavity as a home, unlike the much larger peregrine falcon, which likes cliff sides. Because kestrels don’t make their own holes, they’re dependant on finding a natural cavity in a tree or rock, or a woodpecker hole in a dead or dying tree. Kestrels are vulnerable because they like suburbia. They’re drawn to meadows and yards, open spaces and parks. But homeowners and land managers often take down old and dying trees, leading to a housing shortage for kestrels. Rodenticides and herbicides may play an equally critical role in the plummeting
the only thing they saw that afternoon. Next, the author describes Frank regaining consciousness while drugged and tied to a hospital bed. Why is he there? Has he been in a fight? Fights and bouts of violence have become more and more a part of his life. He only knows that he must escape. Between Seattle and Chicago, we follow Frank on his journey into a painful reality. Today’s readers will have no trouble recognizing Frank’s PTSD, his violent, secret-filled depressions. With no “spoilers,” I can say that he eventually receives a letter from a friend of Cee’s who tells him he must come to Atlanta. He must get Cee, or “She be dead.” He returns to Lotus with his near-dead sister, hoping the women in that town will not turn their backs on her. The women who nurse Cee are powerfully caring. Months of home remedies return Cee to the living. Frank stays in Lotus, repairing the home he hated, replanting the abandoned soil. Cee is no longer dependent on her big brother, and Frank struggles with what this means to his identity. How does he come to terms with the strong, overbearing women who raised him and the equally strong women who saved Cee? One secret Frank and Cee never speak of, but share, is what else they saw on that long-ago afternoon when they watched the stallions fighting. The unburying of that secret helps answer Morrison’s question about home. Is home a house, a city, a state? Or might it be ourselves where our hearts take refuge? 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.’
population. Humans build homes along the fringes of open spaces, such as Lime Ridge, and then put out poison to control the very food items kestrels depend upon: insects
and small rodents. Kestrels seem to be acutely sensitive to poisons, though researchers don’t yet know how they interfere with the bird’s life cycle. When pere-
inaturalisti photo
Kestrals, weighing only 4 ounces, like suburbia and depend on finding nesting space in dead or dying trees.
grine falcons went through a similarly steep decline in the ’50s and ’60s, it took a while to understand how the pesticide DDT was causing the problem. Researchers then discovered the poison interrupted the calcium metabolism in peregrines, producing eggs too thin to protect the chicks. Three years ago, a team of volunteers from 11 East Bay natural history organizations came together to help protect a new nesting closure zone for peregrine falcons in Castle Rock Park. Now the team is taking on an additional challenge: building and mounting nesting boxes for kestrels in area parks and open spaces. It’s also planning to reach out to neighbors of these parks to encourage them to see the consequences of poisoning insects and rodents. Brian Richardson is leading the kestrel campaign. You can contact him at kestrelcampaign@gmail.com. Staci Hobbet is a docent at the Mount Diablo Interpretive Association; mdia.org. Send email to her at anastasiahobbet@gmail.com
Check out fun fall trends
See Market, page 20
This ‘Home’ isn’t filled with fond memories
SunnY SOLOMOn
November 24, 2017
SuSAn SAPPInGTOn
CLOTHESUP
Fall is officially here (finally) and if you’re the type that likes to keep up with the fashion trends, then this is for you. From capes for women to bomber jackets and prints for both men and women, these are the styles not to miss out on this year.
WOMEN Chokers. 90’s is nothing new. In fact, it became popular in a more modern way about a year and a half ago. Along with ripped jeans, the choker is back in full swing. Get a choker necklace as your next statement jewelry piece. Plaid. Designers are going crazy over plaid this year! But, not the plaid from 10 years ago. Plaid is for everything
from suits to coats. Florals & Prints. Shirts, dresses, blouses and more with florals are back. From Topshop to top designers, you’ll find garden patterns and more on all types of clothing. This style will be popular for winter, too. Prints are also trending. From polka dots to other prints, show some color! Non-Skinny Jeans. Sure, skinny jeans will always be popular, but the trend is looking more towards the bootcut of the 90’s. From high-waisted pants to full-length wide legs, there are tons of options to choose from. Match it with a flowy cape or a blouse. Ankle Boots. Suede ankle boots, leather ankle boots and ankle boots in other fabrics will be everywhere this fall and winter. In San Francisco Bay Area, it’s all about showing off some ankle. Capes. No, not the superwoman type of cape! These capes are stylish, and a way of staying warm and fashionable this fall and winter. From
solids to checkered and plaid, cotton, and are more modern capes will be everywhere. and polished. Wear them as a light jacket over a shirt or a butMEN ton down, or by itself. Bomber Jackets. Bomber Stripes, Stripes, Stripes. jackets are a way to class up From cashmere sweaters your outfit and stay warmer in with blue and off-white stripes the fall and winter months. to t-shirts and more, stripes Originally made from heavy will be a big fashion trend for duty leather, these days this out- fall and winter. This includes erwear piece has gone through women too! many changes and is made in a Hats & Caps. From bucket variety of different fabrics. Pop- hats to baseball caps, you’ll see ular bomber jackets include the this casual style all over Califorcasual black one to wear with nia. Grab a bucket hat in deep jeans or chinos, the leather indigo blue, or a camel colored bomber jacket, as well as leather baseball hat. Or, how about a and suede versions. jean hat? Wear it backwards too. Prints. Prints will be everyLayering. The Bay Area where this fall! From bomber can get a bit chilly during the jackets to shirts, jackets, sweat- winter months. Stay warm and shirts and joggers, you’ll see it in style by layering a classic everywhere! Where can you striped shirt or oxford along find some of the best? Contact with a jean jacket on top and a me! stylish herringbone blazer on Flannel Shirts. With the top. The shirt, jacket and top90s back in full swing, it should coat look will be big this year. come as no surprise that flannels are back and better than Sappington is a personal ever. These aren’t your flannels wardrobe stylist for J.Hilburn, clothier from 3 decades ago though. for men. Contact her at Susan. These are made from rugged sappington@jhilburnpartner.com
‘Florida’ portrays a life rarely seen Sean Baker’s “The Florida Project” paints the state of Florida in an unflattering wash of pastels, overgrowth, poverty and garbage. Baker may not have set out to vilify Florida, but it does not excuse the state’s role in the problem. Like so many others, Baker’s characters live in squalor and have to follow a vicious, paycheck-to-paycheck circle. However, none of this keeps “The Florida Project” from being a beautiful portrayal of those living on the edge of a financial razor. If it weren’t for Willem Dafoe’s presence, this film would feel like a documentary. As Bobby, the manager of the cheap Magic Castle motel, his no-nonsense exterior belies a heart of gold. While demanding rent, he simultaneously sympathizes with his renters and often helps them move from room-to-room to avoid establishing permanent residency.
JEFF MELLInGER
SCREEN SHOTS
Even with Dafoe, the film still feels like Baker set up a camera and just let it roll. The children are some of the most realistic kids that have been onscreen in a long while. It is hard to tell who is having more fun: the young actors or the characters they portray. As Mooney, Brooklyn Prince is a bright example of in-your-face realism. Mooney’s brash coarseness must be dealt with. Spitting on cars, talking back to adults and vandalism
are the daily norm for this 6year-old. This behavior proves the apple does not fall far from the tree. Mooney’s mother Hailey (Bria Vinaite, another newcomer), barely in her 20s, acts almost as much like a kid as Mooney herself. Rather than discipline her daughter, Hailey encourages and even plays along with most of Mooney’s hijinks. We learn both how to be decent parents and how to be respectful children from our own parents. Clearly, Hailey never learned either of these things and thus has no knowledge to pass on. Lazy, uncouth and at times downright criminal, Hailey still tries to do right by Mooney. She is more friend than mother, yet for all her failures, Hailey absolutely loves and adores her daughter. There is not much of a plot, yet one can see where the film is heading before the ending. It is more a collection of
wonderfully shot and acted scenes. Prince and her cohorts (Christopher Rivera and Valeria Cotto) scamper along from one mischievous incident to another while we marvel at this rarely seen slice-of-life. These kids are too young to understand the problems their parents face every day. How to get free ice cream is about the only worry on their little minds. Baker shines a light on something everyone tries so hard to ignore. We don’t often see movies depict day-to-day life as so raw and with no filters. “The Florida Project” does not pull any punches. The film and its characters tug at your heartstrings, but without an ounce of manipulation. AJeff 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 comments to editor@claytonpioneer.com.
November 24, 2017
CALENDAR Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
PLEASE SuBMIT yOuR COMMunITy CALEnDAR EvEnTS By 5 P.M. DEC. 6 FOR THE DEC. 15
IN CONCORD
Tuesdays Farmers’ Market
Year round, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Todos Santos Plaza, downtown Concord. pcfma.org.
Nov. 28 November Mixer
Meet the Clayton Valley Village members and volunteers and learn more about the program. 4 – 6 p.m. Hunan Restaurant, 4804 Clayton Road. claytonvalleyvillage.org.
Dec. 1 Gift and Craft Fair
Shop, dine and be entertained. 9:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Concord Senior Center, 2727 Parkside Circle. cityofconcord.org/senior.
Dec. 2 Holiday Luncheon
The public is invited to the Contra Costa County Historical Society’s annual membership meeting and holiday luncheon. 11:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. Concord Museum and Event Center, 1928 Clayton Road. $30 due by Nov. 30. cocohistory.org. (925) 229-1042.
Dec. 2 Tree Lighting
Nov. 24 Three Canyons Hike
ISSuE. ITEMS MuST BE SuBMITTED By EMAIL TO
Enjoy Green Friday instead of Black Friday. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Meet at Mitchell Canyon Trailhead.
Dec. 6 Bird and Nature Hike
Dec. 2 Castle Rock Family Walk
Wide trails through oak grasslands and oak groves. 9 – 12 p.m. Meet at Castle Rock Park. Reservations required.
EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Nov. 24 – 26 “The Nutcracker”
Presented by Contra Costa Ballet. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $38. lesherartscenter.org. (925) 943-7469. Presented by The Buzztones. 8 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $29.50. lesherartscenter.org. (925) 943-7469.
Nov. 28 “Holiday Concert”
Presented by the Walnut Creek Concert Band. 7:30 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $17.50. lesherartscenter.org. (925) 943-7469.
Nov. 28 – 30 “Elf JR”
Dec. 2 - 3 Super Holiday Boutique
Special one-of-a-kind holiday gifts and stocking stuffers. Holiday arts and crafts, free Santa and Olaf photo opportunity. Canned food donations benefit Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano. Dec. 2, Pleasant Hill; Dec. 3, Concord. Free admission. superholidayboutique.com.
Dec. 7 Beacon Lighting Ceremony
Mount Diablo’s beacon is lit to give tribute to those who lost their lives at Pearl Harbor and honor the survivors. Ceremony at 3:45 p.m.; lighting at 5 p.m. California State East Bay Concord Campus, 4700 Ygnacio Valley Road. savemountdiablo.org. (925) 947-3535.
Dec. 9 – 10 Gingerbread House Boutique
Shop for holiday gifts created by local artists and vendors. 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Concord Museum and Event Center and Galindo Home, 1721 Amador Ave. concordhistorical.org.
Dec. 14 Advance Health Care Directives
Legal clinic to prepare and notarize advance health care directives for seniors 60 and older in Contra Costa County. 9:15 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Concord Senior Center, 2727 Parkside Circle. Free. Call for appointment (925) 671-3320.
Dec. 19 Tree of Lights
Tree lighting for Clayton and Concord by Hospice East Bay. 5 – 7 p.m. John Muir Medical Center parking lot, East Street and Almond Avenue. Donations accepted. (925) 887-5678.
IN CLAYTON
Dec. 2 Annual Caroling and Tree Lighting
Downtown festivities. Caroling, followed by Santa, tree lighting and refreshments starting at 6 p.m. The Grove Park. Free. Clayton Business and Community Association. claytoncbca.org. (925) 672-2272.
Dec. 9 Dessert with Mrs. Claus
Prizes, party favors. Visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Bring camera. Children must be accompanied by an adult. 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Endeavor Hall, 6008 Center St. Donations appreciated. Clayton Business and Community Association. claytoncbca.org. (925) 672-2272.
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.
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.
Dec. 16 Around Round Valley
Explore the park on a moderately strenuous hike. 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Meet at Round Valley Staging Area.
Dec. 17 Christmas Berry
Look for holly and other wintry foliage on this short nature hike. 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. Meet at end of Somersville Road.
Mount Diablo Interpretive Association programs listed are free with the exception of park entrance fee. Go to mdia.org and click on Event Calendar for more information.
newsandcalendar@concordpioneer.com
Dec. 14 “Amerigeddon”
Comedy by Christopher Titus. 8 p.m. California Theatre, 351 Railroad Ave., Pittsburg. $25-$45. pittsburgcaliforniatheatre.com. (925) 427-1611.
Hike up the canyon in search of bird sights and sounds. 9 a.m. Dec. 14 – 17 – 12 p.m. Meet at Mitchell Canyon Visitor Center. “The Biggest Gift” Original holiday tale presented by Fantasy Forum Actors EnsemSave Mount Diablo’s Discover Diablo is a free public hike series. ble. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. Go to discover-diablo.eventbrite.com for more information. $14. lesherartscenter.org. (925) 943-7469.
Nov. 25 “Back on Locust St.!”
Santa, entertainment, Mayor’s sing along and tree lighting. Santa arrives at 4 p.m. Todos Santos Plaza, downtown Concord. cityofconcord.org.
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Presented by Poison Apple Productions. 7:15 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $20. lesherartscenter.org. (925) 943-7469.
Dec. 1 “A Salute to The Eagles”
Performed by Hotel California. 8 p.m. El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $10-$27. elcampaniltheatre.com. (925) 757-9500.
Dec. 1 “Miracle on Improv Street”
Presented by Funny Bone Productions. 7:45 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $15. lesherartscenter.org. (925) 943-7469.
Dec. 1 – 2 “Once Upon a Christmas”
Presented by The Ballet School Ballet Joyeux. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $12-$30. lesherartscenter.org. (925) 943-7469.
Dec. 1 – 9 “Christmas Belles”
Presented by Onstage Theatre. Campbell Theater, 636 Ward St., Martinez. campbelltheater.com. (925) 518-3277.
Dec. 1 -16 “An Appalachian Christmas”
A young boy learns the meaning of Christmas. B8 Theatre Company, 2292 Concord Blvd., Concord. $25. b8theatre.org. (925) 890-8877.
Dec. 2 “Sing a Long Messiah”
Sing with the Walnut Creek Chorus to get into the holiday spirit. 7 p.m. Trinity Lutheran Church, 2317 Buena Vista Ave., Walnut Creek. $10 donation optional. Please respond to walnutcreekchorus@gmail.com.
Dec. 3 “Light One Candle”
Presented by Tapestry Handbell and Vocal Ensemble. 4 p.m. St. Michael’s, 2925 Bonifacio St., Concord. Freewill offering. tapestryringersandsingers.org.
Dec. 3 “Season of Light”
Diablo Women’s Chorale’s 75th annual fall concert. 2 p.m. Temple Isaiah, 945 Risa Road, Lafayette. $10-$25. diablowomenschorale.org.
Dec. 3 “Winter Piano Recital”
Presented by The Ballet School. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $14. lesherartscenter.org. (925) 9437469.
Dec. 6 The Many Faces of Leukemia, Lymphoma and Myeloma
Information and discussion. 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Lafayette Library Community Hall, 3491 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette. Free. Registration required. bit.ly/manyfaceslls. (925) 677-5041.
Dec. 7 – 17 “A Christmas Carol”
Brimming with music and dance, love and laughter and scary ghosts. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $28-$50. centerrep.org.
Dec. 8 – 10 “VII”
Dec. 15 – 17 “The Nutcracker”
Presented by The Ballet Company of East County. El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $16-$20. elcampaniltheatre.com. (925) 757-9500.
Dec. 16 “All Thru the Hale”
Celebrating the holidays Hawaiian style. 2 and 8 p.m. California Theatre, 351 Railroad Ave., Pittsburg. $30. pittsburgcaliforniatheatre.com. (925) 427-1611.
Dec. 17 “A Christmas Fantasia”
Presented by Diablo Symphony Orchestra. 3:30 p.m. Walnut Creek Presbyterian Church, 1801 Lacassie Ave., Walnut Creek. $35. diablosymphony.org.
Dec. 17 “Christmas Time is Here”
Journey around the world and learn some local holiday customs, too. 2 p.m. California Theatre, 351 Railroad Ave., Pittsburg. $16$25. pittsburgcaliforniatheatre.com. (925) 427-1611.
SCHOOLS
Dec. 1 – 10 “The Farnsworth Invention”
Who will unlock the key to the greatest innovation of the 20th century? Diablo Valley College, 321 Golf Club Road, Pleasant Hill. $16-$21. dvcdrama.net.
Dec. 1 – 2 “All is Well”
CHURCHES
A choir performance. 7 p.m. Bethel Baptist Church, 3578 Clayton Road, Concord. Free. bethelbaptistca.org.
Dec. 2 “What Sweeter Music”
A Christmas concert. 7:30 p.m. St. Bonaventure, 5562 Clayton Road, Concord. Freewill offering. stbonaventure.net.
Dec. 15 – 16 Live Drive-Thru Nativity
Celebrate the true reason for the season. 6 – 9 p.m. Bethel Baptist Church, 3578 Clayton Road, Concord. Free. bethelbaptistca.org.
FUNDRAISERS
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.
Dec. 2 Open House - Art and Craft Sale
Handcrafted gifts available for purchase. See students at work. Benefits Mt. Diablo Adult Education. 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Pleasant Hill Education Center, One Santa Barbara Road, Pleasant Hill. Free admission. (925) 937-1530.
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.
Nov. 27, Brick by Brick LEGO blocks, 7 p.m. Nov. 28: eBook Appointments, 3 p.m. Registration required. Nov. 29: Homeless Awareness, 3 p.m. Nov. 30: Make Your Own Ornaments, 6:30 p.m. Registration required. Dec. 3: Concord Knitting and Crochet Group, 1:15 p.m. Dec. 4: Coding Without a Computer, 7 p.m. Dec. 6, 13, 20: Tween Giftables, 4 p.m. Registration required. Dec. 8, 9, 10: Friends of the Concord Library Book Sale Dec. 9: Holiday Saturday Social, 12 p.m. Dec. 11: Holiday Elf Program, 4 p.m. Dec. 11: Eating Healthy Workshop, 6 p.m. Registration required. Dec. 12: Teens Make’n’Take Craft, 4 p.m. Dec. 14: “Star Wars: The Force Awakens,” 6 p.m. Dec. 16: Biking After Dark, 3 p.m. Registration required.
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. Nov. 27; Dec. 11, 18: Clayton Knits, 1:30 p.m. Nov. 30: Make a Cool Snow Person, 11 a.m. Dec. 4: Coding Unplugged, 6:30 p.m. Dec. 13: Holiday Movie Night, 7 p.m.
GOVERNMENT
Presented by Alex Ramon Magic. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $35. lesherartscenter.org. (925) 9437469.
1st, 2nd and 4th Tuesdays Concord City Council
Based on a true story. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $35-$45. thebrentwoodtheater.org.
1st and 3rd Wednesdays Concord Planning Commission
Dec. 8 – 17 “Calendar Girls”
Dec. 9 “Moe`uhane” The Dream
A Christmas recital presented by Mau Loa Ohana. 7:30 p.m. El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $18. elcampaniltheatre.com. (925) 757-9500.
6:30 p.m., Council Chamber, Concord Civic Center, 1950 Parkside Dr. cityofconcord.org. 7 p.m. Council Chamber, Concord Civic Center, 1950 Parkside Dr. cityofconcord.org.
Meeting dates and times for local clubs and organizations are listed at concordpioneer.com. Click on ‘Links’
T HE ARTS
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Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
Sit back, relax and enjoy the holidays at local theaters
SALLY HOGARTY
STAGE STRUCK ‘Tis the time for lots of holiday shows, and Contra Costa certainly has its share of wonderful and unique entertainment options beginning with “A Civil War Christmas: An American Musical Celebration.” Written by Pulitzer Prizewinning playwright Paula Vogel, the play takes place on a cold Christmas Eve in 1864 in Washington, D.C. President and Mrs. Lincoln are planning their gift-giving, while a Union blacksmith captures a young rebel soldier on the banks of the Potomac. Nearby, John Wilkes Booth hatches his assassination plot. At the same time, an enslaved woman and her daughter become separated on their journey to freedom. This look at the personal side of the Civil War features hymns and carols of the period as it interweaves the individual stories with messages of compassion, good will and wishes
Samantha Fryer
Campbell Zeigler learns the true meaning of Christmas from his spinster aunts Ann Kendrick and Beth Chastain Diablo Actors Ensemble’s “An Appalacian Christmas” running Dec. 1 – 16 in Concord.
November 24, 2017
Tom Reilly and Terrance Smith in “A Civil War Christmas” by Paula Vogel, nov. 30-Dec. 16 at Town Hall Theatre in Lafayette
for peace. “A Civil War Christmas” runs Nov. 30-Dec. 16 at Town Hall Theatre, 3535 School St., Lafayette. Call 925-283-1557 or go to www.townhalltheatre.com. Another alternative approach to holiday entertainment is Diablo Actor Ensemble’s “An Appalachian Christmas.” Running Dec. 1-16 at B8 Theatre, 2292 Concord Blvd., Concord, this original work by local director Scott Fryer takes place in the Appalachian Mountains in 1938 as a young boy living with his two spinster aunts learns the true meaning of Christmas. The cast includes local favorites Ann Kendrick, Beth Chastain, Campbell Zeigler and Beth Bemis. For tickets, call 925-305-6171 or go to www.diabloactors.org. Not to be forgotten is Center Repertory’s much-anticipated annual production of “A Christmas Carol.” Running Dec. 7-17, this gorgeous telling of the story of the miserable Scrooge, adorable Tiny Tim and those lovable ghosts brims over with music and dance. Uber-talented performers bring this story to life every year, and the sets and magic are a delight to behold. Scott Denison directs, with fun choreography by Jennifer Perry. This show will sell out, so call 925-943-SHOW or go to
“A Scottish Celebration of the Solstice” 32nd Annual Christmas Revels Presents
Songs, dances, and magical tales in the holiday spirit
Scottish Rite Theater
1547 Lakeside Drive, Oakland Fridays, Dec. 8 & 15 at 8 pm Saturdays, Dec. 9 & 16, 1 and 5 pm Sundays, Dec. 10 & 17, 1 and 5 pm
Tickets $20-$65; under age 25 and groups of 10+ are $10-$45 Wheelchair accessible; ample parking nearby
(510) 381-1504 www.californiarevels.org
www.lesherartscenter.org for tickets. Take a trip around the world (at least in song) as Pittsburg Community Theatre presents “Holiday Songs from around the World.” The magical event takes place 2 p.m. Dec. 17 at the beautiful California Theatre, 351 Railroad Ave., Pittsburg.
The show will take you on a journey of familiar and not so familiar holiday songs sung in native languages. Pittsburg’s diverse community shares a little piece of their heritage from Mexico to the Philippines, from China to Ghana and across Europe before heading back to the good old USA. Sounds like a wonderful way to take a break from the often hectic holiday schedule and celebrate the spirit of the holidays with family and friends. Call 925-427-1611 or go to w w w. p i t t s b u r g c a l i f o r n i a theatre.com. Prepare for lots of laughs and more than a few “ahs” as Fantasy Forum Actors Ensemble presents “The Biggest Gift” at Walnut Creek’s Lesher Center, 1601 Civic Dr., Dec. 14-17. It seems some nefarious character has stolen the children’s letters to Santa. No letters – no Christmas. But Tucker the elf and the toys are sent out to find the letters and save Christmas in this heart-warming original musical. The wonderful, family-
Mark Enea, Kris Williams, Jordyn Foley, Zac Schuman and Suzanne Henry in East Bay Children’s Theatre’s “Christmas in Oz,” running through Dec. 17 in Castro Valley.
friendly show encourages audience participation and even allows for a small number of the younger members of the audience to sit on the stage and help the performers. Call 925-943-SHOW or go to www.lesherartscenter.org for tickets. There’s still time to take a trip to Oz with East Bay
Center Rep’s holiday favorite, “A Christmas Carol” plays at the Lesher, Dec. 7-17.
Children’s Theatre as it presents “Christmas in Oz,” a new musical about old friends. The brainchild of the company’s own theatrical wizard, Ron Lytle, this delightful musical tells of a lonely Dorothy pining for her friends in Oz. With the help of Mr. Tinker, she builds a magical wish machine and returns to the Emerald City just in time for the holiday celebration. Of course, not all goes well thanks to a sassy sorceress who kidnaps Santa Claus. But have no fear: Dorothy, the Scarecrow, Tin Man and Lion take off to rescue St. Nick and save Christmas. This world premiere runs through Dec. 17 at Chanticleers Theatre, 3683 Quail Ave., Castro Valley. Call 510SEE-LIVE or go to the website www.ebctonline.org. Sally Hogarty is well known around the Bay Area as a newspaper columnist, theatre critic and working actress. She is the editor of the Orinda News. Send comments to sallyhogarty@gmail.com
Photographer looks beyond the violence of Vietnam War
LISA FuLMER
ARTS
IN
MOTION
As a young man, Concord resident Tim Dallas loved being a musician and wanted to go to college. But he couldn’t afford to do either, so he auditioned for the Army Band and hoped for a free education. By choosing to enlist instead of waiting to be drafted, Dallas was allowed some choices for where to serve. He attended the
Army/Navy School of Music in Virginia and then was assigned to an Army Band in California. Dallas was eventually sent to Vietnam in 1969 to work with the Medical Civic Action Program (MEDCAP). His team provided villagers with support services, such as medical and dental work, food, security and personal hygiene training. Dallas and a small band of Army musicians would also bring people of each village together by playing concerts. “My mother used to send me care packages filled with small toys for the children. We visited some villages regularly, so I became friends with several families. Whenever we came to town, the kids would run up to me and dig through my pockets, looking for balloons, balls and other treats,” Dallas says with a laugh. He brought a small camera with him everywhere. “Every chance I got, I snapped pictures of the villagers living their lives in the middle of chaos,” he recalls. “I had to send my film to Saigon for developing, and I thought for sure that some shots would get confiscated. But every single moment I captured made its way back to me.” Assignments that involved combat left Dallas with difficult memories, but his time working with MEDCAP was positive. “It provided plenty of good to balance out the bad when I got home,” he says. This month, Dallas joined two more Vietnam veterans, Jim Hardy and Steve Burchik,
Tim and Barbara Dallas with a few of his timeless photographs from 1969.
to put on a show at the aRt Cottage in downtown Concord. The display included photography, art, books and memorabilia. It was an emotional exhibit – from the tender faces of hopeful people in a war-torn country, to harsh images of fighter planes and menacing weapons, to memorial sketches of American soldiers who never made it home. Dallas hopes his part in this show helped people see more of the humanity that he experienced during the Vietnam War. “In MEDCAP, I wasn’t there to kill people. I was there to help them,” he reflects. By chronicling his time in Vietnam on film, Dallas paid closer attention to everything he was witnessing. He developed a keen eye for action,
composition and emotion in his shots. After his military service, Dallas studied geology and spent his career working for the EPA and the National Park Service. Now retired, he captures truly beautiful moments in nature through photography. Visit TimDallas.com to see more of his portfolio, including photos from the Vietnam exhibit. In December, aRt Cottage hosts a Holiday Art & Craft Boutique at 2238 Mt. Diablo St.
Lisa Fulmer is a mixed media artist, a small business marketing consultant, and president of the Concord Art Association. Visit ConcordArtAssociation.com for inspiration and information.
November 24, 2017
Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
Page 17
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Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
November 24, 2017
For a festive holiday, start with your mantle
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DESIGN & DÉCOR
Ready or not, the holidays are here and it’s time to begin your strategy for holiday decor. There’s the outside to consider: lights on the perimeter of your residence, front porch and door decor, maybe even replacing a few potted plants to create a more winter wonderland feeling. Inside, there’s table top decor, wrapping banisters in garlands and lights, scented candles sprinkled throughout, holiday pillows and throws … The list goes on. But a burning question tops all others: Is your mantel ready for the holidays? You may have a grouping of family photos in silver frames, an antique mirror or a rustic deer rack flanked with modern sconces. The decorative items look great and you’ve taken care to ensure that they work with your design aesthetic, but it’s time to transform your mantel into an eye-catching holiday focal point. For immediate holiday gratification, place sparkly round baubles, such as Christmas tree ornaments, inside a clear glass container such as an urn, vase or lantern. Whether you own clear glass containers or you’re looking to purchase containers for a more uniform look with
The fireplace takes center stage in a room, a perfect setting for drama, color and innovative decorations.
specific sizes and styles, the only other ingredient you need is the filler. For Christmas, New Year’s and other winter and religious holidays, consider glass, colored or mirrored baubles, battery-operated light strands, oversized acrylic gems, metallic garlands or any item that catches and reflects light. Place these containers on your mantel and add a second layer of garland to fill in the voids. To bring the outdoors in, display fresh-cut garlands of pine, Douglas fir, magnolia or cedar on your mantel. Mix themes with holiday-specific accents: strands of lights, pine cones, red berry holly or pumpkins, gourds or husks of corn. Don’t feel confined to just your mantel. Consider temporarily replacing your large family photo or hanging mirror with a wreath or swag to tie everything together. Instead of sparkles, consider filling glass containers with pumpkins or gourds, walnuts and cranberries or acorns and oak leaves.
There’s something special and personal about handmade decor. If you have the gift to knit, I applaud you. I recently saw a beautiful, knit garland made of wool. It was not only clever, but cozy and unique. Considering that this project might take some time to create, a smallish mantle might be fitting for the knit garland. You could take this look one step further and pair it with knit pumpkins, sweaterlooking spheres and natural elements from the outdoors. Seasonally inspired framed artwork from your children or grandchildren could easily work into this festive mix of handmade decor. Whether you knit, create pottery, paint or make any other handmade piece, the idea is that your decor is a one of a kind masterpiece. 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.
New Zealand brings authentic ‘Lord of the Rings’ experience
2017)
(expires 11/30/
6160 Center St., Ste. F, Clayton, CA p: 925.672.7920
www.interiorspanache.com Concord United Methodist Church Presents
24th Annual
Christmas Carol Sing December 2 6 p.m. Bring a camera for pictures with Santa 7 p.m. Carol Sing Admission is a contribution to Toys for Tots
Visit the Christmas Store Tues. - Thurs., Noon to 3 p.m. • Gently-used Christmas items
• Handmade crafts & collectibles
Great for Christmas gifts 1645 West Street, Concord (Corner of Clayton Way and West Street) For more information, call (925) 685-5260
concordumc.org
ROBERT CASEY PLACES TO GO
If you’ve seen “Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit” repeatedly, it may be time to go on your own quest – not in Middle-Earth, but in New Zealand. The films are based on books by J.R.R. Tolkien about Middle-Earth, a mythical land inspired by the author’s childhood explorations of rural England. To bring the stories to the big screen, producer Peter Jackson filmed largely in his native New Zealand. While there are quite a few ways to see the numerous film locations, driving can be perilous in New Zealand – where people drive on the left side of the road and visitors must contend with narrow, treacherous roads through much of the mountainous country. Also, New Zealand has lower bloodalcohol rules than most U.S. states and sobriety checkpoints are frequent. Therefore, I highly recommend taking the “Journey to Middle-Earth” tour. This is a 15-day, air-and-land vacation offered by Down Under Answers. It includes air travel on Air New Zealand (four different flights) as well as lodg-
Ian Brodie/Tourism new Zealand
At new Zealand’s Hobbiton, visitors can take photos from the circular door used in the Tolkien films.
ing, all tours and a cruise. There are several tour options, but this one is tightly focused on “Lord of the Rings” film locations. It provides the right mix of hosted tours and a certain degree of independence, with free time to explore on your own. Air New Zealand Vacations and Down Under Answers are members of the U.S. Tour Operators Association, which means you can be assured that the trip meets the highest standards for reliability and consumer protection. The “Journey to MiddleEarth” tour includes airfare from San Francisco to Auckland, on New Zealand’s North Island, and the return from Queenstown on the South Island. It also includes one-way flights from Rotorua to Wellington, and Wellington to
See Places, page 20
If You Go
Passport/visa requirements. Make sure your passport is valid for three months beyond your planned date of departure. New Zealand does not require visas for U.S. citizens for stays of less than three months. Weather. New Zealand is in the southern hemisphere, so their seasons are the reverse of ours. The best times to visit Auckland are April and October, which feature pleasant temperatures and smaller crowds.
More information. Tourism New Zealand offers travel information, activities, accommodations and sample itineraries at newzealand.com/us. Down Under Answers’ website is duatravel.com.
November 24, 2017
Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
Add excitement to chilly weather gardens with these colorful shrubs
nICOLE HACKETT
GARDEN GIRL
Cool weather ignites impressive foliage color in some of our favorite evergreen shrubs. Coprosma, Euonymus and Nandina shrubs come alive this time of year as their leaves turn brilliant colors of crimson, salmon and bronze. Coprosma shrubs have become more mainstream the past few years. This shrub has fleshy stems that are a nice contrast to popular, woody evergreens in our landscapes. Coprosma shrubs are commonly called mirror plants. They have glossy, round or oval leaves, depending on the selection. There are many options to consider, with a choice to fulfill almost any desired mature size.
COPROSMA PINA COLADA
Coprosma Tequila Sunrise reaches 3-4 feet tall and wide. It needs at least six hours of sun for best leaf color and performance. As autumn nights begin to chill, Tequila Sunshine’s leaves go from yellowish-green with touches of salmon to intense salmon with gold centers. Coprosma Pink Splendor has a pyramidal growth habit. It can reach 4 feet tall but only about half as wide. This evergreen makes an excellent installation within a perennial bed planted with salvia, agastache and coneflowers. The variegation of Pink Splendor turns a fantastic shade of pink throughout winter. Pina Colada is a newer selection of Coprosma. This round shrub has tiny, fresh green leaves with salmon edges. As the weather cools, the leaves turn a deep mahogany. Expect this selection to reach 2-3 feet tall and wide. Euonymus is a common shrub that has two family members that turn color with cold weather. Euonymus Emerald and Gold has a yellow and green leaf variegation. As the weather cools, all the yellow turns salmon. The end results are fantastic. Emerald and Gold Euonymus is a shrubby groundcover. In the ground, this euonymus can reach 18 inches to 2 feet tall and about 4 feet wide. Euonymus Emerald Gaiety has a cream and green variegation. The winter chill brings out a dark rose color. Nandina is a gigantic family of evergreen shrubs commonly called Heavenly Bamboo. Every member of the Nandina family has dramatic fall and winter color. These days, many
Page 19
4775 Morgan Territory Road, Clayton
Wonderful country creek side setting on 1 acre — Ranch style home with 4 bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms plus bonus room which is currently set up as the perfect complete separate in-law unit with bedroom, private full bath, kitchen and laundry (possible income producing).
Most of the land is flat so bring your animals and toys. City water.
Fantastic Price $879,000 NANDINA DOMESTICA FIREPOWER
seek out the dwarf selections. Gulf Stream and Fire Power are among my favorite Nandina selections. Gulf Stream has delicate foliage that turns reddish-orange in the winter. Gulf Stream reaches 3 feet tall and 18 inches wide. Fire Power has a medley of winter color. Leaves can be fiery red, orange and gold. Fire Power matures to a nice 2 feet by 2 feet, making it a tidy hedge or walkway selection. Its leaves are basilshaped, and this Nandina’s compact appearance makes it desirable. Evergreen shrubs with year-round interest are valuable in any landscape. Use some of these selections as companion shrubs to deciduous trees such as crape myrtle and Japanese maple. They could also be foundation plantings or container considerations. All are heat and cold hardy, water-wise and long living. 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
Kelly McDougall CalBRE 01156462
(925) 787-0448 KMcDougall@windermere.com
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Page 20
Briones trail offers panoramic splendor Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
Places, from page 18
Queenstown, as well as all transfers between the various airports and hotels along the route. While in Rotorua, you can take an all-day motor-coach trip to see the Hobbiton movie set, which was built to represent the Shire in “Lord of the Rings.” Visitors can go inside one of the Hobbit homes and take photos looking out the circular door. In Wellington, “the coolest little capital city in the world,” visitors can tour many of the sites Jackson used around the city, including Rivendell and
Helms Deep. The tour also goes to the Weta Cave Workshop in Miramar, which displays props and costumes from “Lord of the Rings.” The “Journey to MiddleEarth” tour is a perfect way to experience the grandeur of New Zealand while immersing yourself in sets and memorabilia from the popular movies.
Robert Casey is president of Fair Winds Cruises & Expeditions in Clayton. He can be reached at 925-787-8252 or send email to fairwindscruises.com.
Market, from page 14
before eating or cooking. You can find daikon yearround at the farmers market’s Asian produce farmers. Visit FT Fresh from Fresno for crisp, fresh daikon.
DAIKON CARROT SALAD 1 daikon radish, sliced in thin discs 1 large carrot, sliced in thin discs ½ red onion, sliced thin 1 T sesame oil 2 T rice wine vinegar ½ tsp. sugar DAIKON RADISHES Pinch salt ½ T sesame seeds (black sesame seeds make a good ties that help with arthritis pain contrast) and can decrease inflammation throughout the body. Mix oil, vinegar, sugar and When buying daikon, look salt. Place vegetables in a small for firm ones that have bowl and toss with dressing. smooth skin. They can be Sprinkle with sesame seeds. stored in the refrigerator for Serve chilled or at room temup to a week. Although the perature. skin is quite thin, daikon Recipe: PCFMA staff radishes are usually peeled
KEVIn PARKER
HIT
THE
TRAIL
Fall means shorter days, earlier sunsets, few to no crowds and crisp temperatures out on the trails. Given busy schedules and limited sunlight, this hike at Briones Regional Park is relatively close to home. With more than 6,000 acres and miles of trail, it has been on my “must hike list” since early summer. Once part of Rancho San Felipe, Briones opened as a park in 1967 but has a modest history beginning in the early 1800s as a land for cultivation and cattle. Years later, this area was known for orchards and vineyards, some of which are still present today. The park has five staging areas, with hiking, biking, birdwatching and horseback riding as the most popular activities.
There are group camps, an archery range, equestrian parking and picnicking spots. Alhambra Creek Trail starts just inside the gate; choose the single-track trail on the left side of the creek instead of the gravel fire road. Both trails end up at the same place, but I prefer shade over sun, adventure over monotony and scenery, trees and forest over a gravel grinder any day. This time of year, the trail was well-traveled with hardpacked dirt, exposed tree roots and leafless poison oak branches (you can still get oil from branches). Alhambra Creek gains elevation almost the entire way up as you pick up Spengler Trail and loop around Maricich Lagoons. Both were almost dry in late October. Dense forest and tree cover give way to wide open hillsides, grassy hillsides and views of Briones (1,483 feet) and Mott (1,424 feet) peaks. Spengler and then Old Briones Road Trails are fire roads, exposed to full sun and windy conditions. At the junction, follow Briones Crest Trail to reveal panoramic views and vista points a plenty with Martinez, Concord and the Benicia
Nancy E. Bennett
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No Name Trail junctions into Diablo View Trail just above Marker 46. Continue on Diablo View Trail until you reach your starting point at Alhambra Creek Staging Area. Get out there and enjoy our local parks.
Contact Kevin Parker with comments or questions by email at LukeHollywood@gmail.com
Briones Regional Park
Alhambra Creek Trail>Spengler Road Trail>Old Briones Road Trail>Briones Crest Trail>No Name Trail>Diablo View Trail
Distance: 5.75 miles Duration: 2 hours Elevation gain: 1,792 feet Level: Moderate Getting There: Alhambra Creek Staging Area, Martinez; restrooms, water, maps, picnics, parking fees, dogs allowed Maps and Info: www.ebparks.org/parks/ briones
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Bridge as familiar backdrops. Take the trail due east and continue on a moderate uphill pace as you near Briones Peak. A quick trip up a narrow trail will put you into some of the best views Briones has to offer and a comfortable bench to boot. Plan on enjoying 360-degree views as Mount Diablo, the California Delta and Mount Tamalpais can be seen on a clear day. The next section of trail doesn’t show up on any map, but it’s right in front of your eyes and ripe for the picking. The trail is steep (you don’t have hiking poles yet?) with loose footing and looks to be well-traveled via bicycle. But no worries, I was short on sunlight and knew this trail was the goods. The No Name Trail dives immediately downhill from the bench at Briones Peak. No Name meanders through trees, tangled gnarls of roots and zig and zags as you descend faster than you probably planned, but that didn’t stop me from mid-forest hooting and hollering half the way down. The trail continues to drop as you cut through packed sand, rock and brush, but the view is second to none. On this weeknight, I had the trail all to myself.
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