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October 2014
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New principal gets ‘icy’ reception JAY BEDECARRÉ Concord Pioneer
Rianne Pfaltzgraff gets up each morning in Oakley and heads for her job as principal at Concord High School realizing that “every day is a new day. There’s no such thing as the status quo.” And the school’s new top administrator wouldn’t have it any other way. The youngest secondary school principal in the Mt. Diablo Unified School District at 37, Pfaltzgraff was given her assignment on June 25, and started setting up her office on July 4. Since that day she has been hard at work, usually arriving on campus in time for zero period at 7:10 a.m. The neophyte principal replaced the retiring Dr. Gary McAdam, who was in charge of CHS since 2008. Her first experience in administration was as vice principal of 2010 Concord
TIM GRAYSON
MAYOR
Opportunity thrives at former weapons station There are times when I like to visualize how Concord will look to the next generation. I can see the pictures in my mind and I get excited about where we are going. We are blessed with a unique opportunity given to very few cities and we need to get it right. With the annexation of the 5,000-plus acres of the former Concord Naval Weapons Station we have added 20 percent to our size, but the meaning for the future is far
See Mayor, page 9
CONCORD HIGH SCHOOL PRINCIPAL RIANNE PFALTZGRAFF (SEATED) TOOK PART IN THE ICE BUCKET CHALLENGE IN SUPPORT OF ALS RESEARCH. The good-natured principal was drenched by school leadership students Kimberly Snow (left) and Azeema Yahya with a large audience of students, many of whom recorded the event with their mobile devices.
Making an impact in the Monument Corridor Community leaders honored at annual Awards breakfast CYNTHIA GREGORY Concord Pioneer
Photo courtesy Monument Impact Silvia Barajas (third from left), owner of Los Rancheros Supermarket and Tacqueria received the Monument Impact Business Partner award. Pictured with Director Mike Van Hofwegen, Planning Commissioner Carlyn Obringer and Eva Chena of Monument Impact.
The Monument Corridor is nothing if not vibrant. While it has seen its share of challenges over the years, city and regional leaders celebrated the bright future of the region — home to 40,000 peo-
ple living and working there, or roughly one in three people in the city of Concord — at the first Monument Impact breakfast held Sept. 11, where two women were honored for their work in making a difference. Lorena Cruz, then 29, and Silvia Barajas, then 14, arrived in Concord unable to speak English, also leaving family and familiarity behind in Mexico. The two have gone on to create a sense of community, success and pride in their new home.
PEGGY SPEAR Concord Pioneer
When the 6.0 Napa Earthquake rumbled through northern California on Aug. 24, it woke up more than scared Bay Area residents. It also jarred awake those sometimes buried fears of, “Am I prepared?” For many Concord residents, sadly, the answer is
“No.” “We aren’t ready for a major disaster,” says Herb Yonge, and he should know. As Operations Director for Clayton’s Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), he helps out firsthand in local emergencies, as well as trains residents in disaster preparedness, CPR and other life-saving activities. Rich Veal, an instructor in both Clayton and Concord, agrees. But in a strange way, the Napa quake was fortuitous, because both men suspect there will be an uptick in
What’s Inside Book Review . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Business . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 Community . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
the number of residents seeking to become prepared. The Napa Quake was also lucky in terms of timing, as September is National Preparedness Month, and there are several activities geared to helping people. But both Yonge and Veal are quick to say that Concord and Clayton aren’t alone in lacking emergency preparedness. They quote a national survey that says only one in 10 Americans are truly prepared for a disaster, be it an See Disaster Prep, page 9
Directory of Advertisers . . . . .5 Food for Thought . . . . . . . .22 Forum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Garden Girl . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
Cruz was given the “Making a Difference Award” for her inspirational work getting people and resources together to help her neighbors lead healthier lives. She was very involved in civic affairs in her Mexican hometown, but she says it was difficult for her when she came to the U.S. at 29, not speaking a word of English. She says she felt isolated and
See Monument, page 20
COMMUNITY EMERGENCY RESPONSE TEAM volunteers Ken Rishell (Dorothy Ziolko and Gina Scheer brought "Rescue Roxie" to Concord’s Safety Fair on Sept. 3. CERT uses Roxie in the search and rescue module in their emergency preparedness training.
Get Up and Get Out . . . . . .17 Performing Arts . . . . . . . . . .18 Pets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
New Day. . . New Pioneer
MAKING HEALTHY CONNECTIONS
Are YOU prepared for the next big quake? Napa shaker may spur many to take disaster preparedness seriously.
See Principal, page 14
Schools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Tech Talk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
TAMARA STEINER EDITOR & PUBLISHER
Welcome to the Concord Pioneer, your community newspaper. For those who have been receiving delivery of the Clayton Pioneer, we will be a familiar sight. For others, we are the new kid on the block. For the past couple of years, we have been covering some Concord news in the Clayton Pioneer and delivering to parts of Concord on a limited basis. We have consistently heard from Pioneer readers that they want more — more Concord news, more Concord schools, more Concord sports; just simply more Concord. “Clayton is the smallest city in the county. Concord is the biggest,” said one critic. “We need our own paper.” “Concord news in the Clayton Pioneer?” said another. “Why not a CONCORD Pioneer?” Why not, indeed? So, we stepped up—and here we are.
See New Pioneer, page 2
Like us on
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Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
COMMUNITY
In Brief... Roll on with Bike Concord Bicyclists of all ages and abilities can join Bike Concord for a fun ride around town beginning at 3 p.m. hthis Sunday, Sept. 28. Meet at the North Concord BART station, and ride to Todos Santos Plaza. The ride is the latest event sponsored by Bike Concord, an organization of volunteers that has been fixing bikes for free and dusting off wheels at the farmers market. During the ride, riders can stop and talk about the different types of bicycle infrastructure they encounter, and what type of bicycle infrastructure could be built to make Concord a more bike-friendly city. At the end of the ride, participants can discuss what riders want to see change in Concord in regards to biking and bike safety in the next couple of years. For more information, visit www.BikeConcord.com.
October 2014
Women’s issues ‘Superhero’ honored at luncheon More than 300 supporters, colleagues, friends and family of Congressman George Miller gathered in the banquet room of the Crowne Plaza Hotel on Sept. 13 to honor the man who has been the “superhero” of women for his entire 40-year career. The event was sponsored by the Contra Costa Chapters of the National Organization for Women, Planned Parenthood and the Concord chapter of the American Association of University Women. Among those paying tribute to Miller were former Congresswoman and longtime friend Ellen Tauscher, now a member of the State Department, Eric Swallwell,
Local educators Maria Dudley of Walnut Creek and Rebecca D’Lima and Celeste McCullough of Concord were among those celebrating Congressman George Miller’s four-decades in Congress where he championed legislation supporting health and womens’ rights.
Jr, freshman Congressman from the 15th District, U.S. Senator Barbara Boxer and
California Senator Mark DeSaulnier from Concord. Miller was only 29 when
first elected to Congress. “Just a small child,” Tauscher quipped. Miller, 69, was born and raised in Martinez. His father was a California state senator fro, 1948 until 1969. He married his Alhambra High sweetheart, Cynthia Caccavo and together they raised two sons. They have six grandchildren. Miller credits his wife’s Monday Night Womens’ group for inspiring much of his progressive action on behalf of women and children. Working on the Affordable Health Care Act with the late Senator Ted Kennedy was the “great reward of a
long career,” Miller said. He recalled his first year on The Hill—“when I thought Back East was Reno” and a chance meeting with Congresswoman Bella Abzug, known as “Battling Bella” for her fierce support of women’s rights. “The first week I was in Washington, I was standing across from the Rayburn Building with a map in my hand,” Miller recalled. “When this short lady, arms loaded, walked up and thrust her bag at me. “Here,” she said. “Carry this.” “I did — and I’ve been carrying those purses ever since.”
Democratic Club coming to the Monument A new Democratic Party club is forming in the Monument Corridor of Concord. The club will be part of the Democratic Party of Contra Costa County, focusing on voter registration, public education, affordable health care and housing, jobs and wages, and other issues consistent with the goals and philosophy of the Democratic party. The club will meet monthly and feature speakers and presentations at quarterly meetings open to the public. “The Monument Corridor of Concord contains thousands of homes and registered voters,” says club organizer George Fulmore. “It is a thriving community that can be well-served by a
New Pioneer, from page 1 The Concord Pioneer is different from other local publications. We are bigger, we cover more news and we are delivered free to 30,000
residents once a month. The local paper on your doorstep fills a need that isn’t met by the metro dailies or by the digital media. It’s filled
If you are up early on Thursday, look for Maria Santos and Marvin and Irving Flores who will be delivering your new Concord Pioneer. Far right is ABC Direct owner John Leite.
Continued next page
139 Sugar Creek Lane, Alamo
with the things that matter at the micro level—the news that affects where you live, today. The local paper is social media the old-fashioned way. Everyone gets it at the same time. And it sticks around on the coffee table or kitchen counter until the next one comes—it doesn’t disappear with a click or a swoosh. Both the Concord and the Clayton Pioneers are published and produced locally. Our editorial staff is professional and accomplished. My own Concord connection goes back to the 60s—my first paid editorial work was for the Contra Costa Times when it was still the “Greensheet.” Both Pioneer papers are supported strictly by our
The Pioneer staff from left, Pamela Wiesendanger, Pete Cruz, Tamara Steiner, Jay Bedecarré and Peggy Spear.
advertisers. So if you like what you see, go buy their stuff. We’re happy to be in Concord. We hope you are happy to see us.
114 Forest Hill Drive, Clayton
See page 9 for more information on the Concord Pioneer. Send comments and questions to editor@concordpioneer.com. Visit our new website at ConcordPioneer.com.
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October 2014
Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
Concord girls honored for life-saving act
Veronica Fiorella Tucker and Grace McAdoo were honored at the Sept 9 City Council meeting and Mayor Tim Grayson presented them with Certificates of Commendation for their heroic efforts in saving Veronica’s father from drowning. The girls were swimming in Lake Tahoe on July 24 when Veronica saw her dad in distress. The two responded quickly. Veronica swam over to her dad and with Grace’s help, the girls pulled him to shore and safety.
Salvation Army volunteers assist after Napa quake The Concord Salvation Army Emergency Services Corps were on site in Napa for three days after last month’s 6.0 earthquake. The damage was extensive, especially to downtown Napa, and many residents were displaced. The Corps Canteen volunteers, along with crews from five other Canteens, fed residents, firefighters, PG&E crews and other emergency support personnel To volunteer for the Salvation Army Canteen crew, send an email to Concord-
Canteen@gmail.com. Include name, city and cell phone and when you are available to work.
Salvation Army Canteen volunteers Larry Loomer, Dennis Herron, Liz Styles, Terry Buxton and Laurin Styles.
Page 3
Concord native serves aboard Navy’s newest ship USS Zumwalt Clayton Valley High School graduate and Concord native Christian C. Remington is serving aboard one of the U.S. Navy’s newest and most advanced ships, the destroyer Zumwalt. Petty Officer 2nd Class Remington is a logistics specialist aboard the Zumwalt, which is currently under construction in Maine and scheduled to be commissioned in 2016. Built with a stealth-like design intended to reduce the ship’s radar profile, the Zumwalt’s futuristic appearance seems fitting given that the ship’s commanding officer is Capt. James Kirk. The ship has advanced
technologies in every area – engines, power systems, weapons systems, shipboard electronics and sensors — making it one of the world’s most capable ships. Longer than two football fields, the ship is 80 feet wide and weighs more than 15,000 long tons. Remington said it is an exciting time to be in the Navy, helping to build a crew and a ship from scratch. He also said he is proud of the work he is doing to help commission and man one of the Navy’s newest ships. As a 26-year-old with numerous responsibilities, Remington said he is learning about himself as a leader, sailor and a person. “I’ve
In Brief... Democratic Party club focusing on this unique geographic area of the city of Concord." For more information on the club, contact Fulmore at monumentdems@aol.com or call 925-348-3763.
Blues Against Hunger
Petty Officer 2nd Class Christian C. Remington is a logistics specialist aboard the Zumwalt.
developed perseverance,” said Remington. “I’ve learned to push myself past beyond what I previously thought possible.”
Come out for a night of blues, beverages and a good time at The Office Cocktail Lounge in Concord from 5 to 7 p.m. on Sept. 27. The blues duo Sweet n’ Lowdown Show performs to help collect food for the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano. The event is free, though non-perishable food donations are requested.The Office Cocktail Lounge is at 1796 Willow Pass Road. For more information, go to bluesagainsthunger.org.
Clayton Reads
County Taxpayers Association supports Measure Q extension PEGGY SPEAR Concord Pioneer
The movement to extend a half-cent sales tax in Concord received a huge boost from an unlikely source recently — the Contra Costa Taxpayers Association. The predominantly antitax organization gave a thumbs up to the measure on the Nov. 4 ballot extending Measure Q, the tax originally approved by Concord voters in 2010. Concord civic leaders have maintained that without Measure Q, the city would
face drastic budget cuts resulting in a severe loss of services for the city that was already hit hard by the recession and the loss of redevelopment funds. In fact, it was the way Concord responded to its budget crisis that CCTA leaders said led them to support the Measure Q extension. “As Contra Costa’s largest city, Concord has managed to keep employee costs low,” said CCTA Executive Director Alex Aliferis, citing Concord’s nearly 390 city employees. “Compare that to Richmond, which is a smaller
city, and has more than 800 city employees.” Aliferis also said that his organization liked the fact that there was a citizen’s oversight committee for Measure Q, and the extension contains a “sunset clause” that states if the city is financially solvent, the tax will be discontinued. Measure Q is set to expire in 2016, but according to state law, taxes like these must be voted on during a general election, said former Concord Mayor and Measure Q Over-
See Measure Q, page 5
The Clayton Library’s 7th annual “Clayton Reads begins Oct. 1 and runs through Nov 3. The program is part of the County Library “One City, One Book” program. This year the community is encouraged to read “The Book Thief,” by Markus Zusak, join discussion groups and attend presentations. Get a free copy at the library Oct. 1 while supply lasts. For more information,go to claytonlibrary.org.
Library Used Book Sale The Clayton Community Library Foundation's Fall Used Book Sale will be from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sat., Oct. 18 and noon to 4 p.m. on Sun., Oct. 19 at the Clayton Community Library. Most books are $1, while children’s are 50 cents. Books will be half-price on Sunday with a $3-a-bag special from 2 to 4 p.m. The book sales are the Foundation’s major fundraisers. The Clayton Community Library is located at 6125 Clayton Rd., Clayton.
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OKTOBERFEST Oct. 4-5 Visit our booth for a FREE commemorative photo
Page 4
Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
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City Council candidates say a balanced budget is a top priority Incumbent faces challenge for City Treasurer job PEGGY SPEAR Concord Pioneer
Nine candidates are vying for three seats on the Concord City Council in a race that will be decided Nov. 4. Eight of the candidates, including three incumbents, responded to questions posed by the Pioneer. Candidate Nick Lynch opted not to.
Adam Foster
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October 2014
In his first year in office, Foster would focus on improving public safety, make decisions that put families first and jumpstart development and investment in Concord. The city planning professional says he feels the current city council hasn’t done enough to move the city to a place of financial strength. “Concord’s financials still reflect a community that is very much mired in a recession,” he says, adding that there needs to be innovative plans to improve sales taxes and increase property values, and encourage development that will enhance the community. He also says that he will champion Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) strategies to improve public safety.” Investing wisely in public safety, families and development opportunities will get Concord moving toward a path to financial stability.”
Tim Grayson Concord’s current mayor, Grayson is in the first year of a two-year term. First elected in 2010, he says that his priorities, if elected, would be to address the infrastructure needs, including streets and sewer lines. He would also focus on looking at how to manage the city’s unfunded liabilities, and move forward with his initiative for a first-ever Central County Family Justice Center. He says that as a council member, there are issues that need additional attention, such as medical costs, but “this is an item limited to negotiations with bargaining groups, and not so much an issue of inadequate attention” by the current council. A chaplain with the Concord Police Department, Grayson says that he will continue to support a balanced budget, while addressing key issues as safety, streets and other infrastructure needs. He also promotes “an environment that is business friendly to attract higher paying jobs and stable businesses.” He supports the retention of land that is commercially developed on the Concord Naval Weapons Station and leasing it, “assuring revenue to the General Fund for years to come.”
Patrick Hogoboom
marijuana taken more seriously, more attention to the city’s debt, and development of the Concord Naval Weapons Station “with the people’s interest in mind.” An at-home parent, Hogoboom studied criminal justice at DVC, and has had Army and police duties, as well. He previously worked as a steam engineer and security officer for the state of California. He says he believes the current city council has not addressed the needs of the medical marijuana community, and collecting taxes on medical marijuana would help alleviate the city’s debt. He also says there needs to be “more transparency” in Concord finances. Calling himself an “Army Infantry bulldog,” Hogoboom says he has a “heart for Concord” and will conduct the job of council member with a “get-the-job done attitude” and good humor.
Laura Hoffmeister As a longtime city council member, incumb e n t Hoffmeister has served in a variety of leadership roles, both at city level and regional and state. If re-elected, she says her top three priorities in the first year in office would be improving the infrastructure/street repaving needs, developing a financial
Hogoboom states that if elected, his top three priorities will be having medical
See Council, page 5
I am honored that the publishers of the Concord Pioneer have launched a new community newspaper that will provide coverage of local interest stories, school news and student events, sports, business and local government issues. Concord is lucky to have a newspaper that puts the spotlight on Concord. My thanks to the Concord Pioneer publisher, its editor and staff for seeing the need for information to the Concord community about the Concord community. Welcome and all the best for much success.
Laura Hoffmeister Concord Council Member
October 2014
Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
Harvest Lots grow hope along with a community garden PATRICIA ROMERO Correspondent
August Wegele’s Harvest Lots is the kind of project that evokes visions of a greater America. The project elicits an era when people worked hard to improve their communities and took real pride in their neighborhoods. Today, the Harvest Lots garden on Oakland Ave. confirms that this spirit is alive and well in Concord. Wegele, the founder of Harvest Lots, combined a good idea with
real-world skills to turn an unsightly vacant lot into a nonprofit community garden. What is more, Harvest Lots donates the garden’s entire yield to local food banks, giving fresh, locally grown, organic produce to the very people who need it most. Wegele and his team have more ideas for the garden project including community garden classes, gardening clubs and educational opportunities for kids.
See Harvest, page 8
Measure Q, from page 3 sight Committee Chair Guy Bjerke. “If we can’t pass the extension now, we’d be in dire straits until the 2016 election,” he said. If approved, Measure Q will run for an additional nine years. It will take a simple majority to pass. The Measure Q extension was endorsed unanimously by the Concord City Council, three of whom — Mayor Tim Grayson, Vice-mayor Ron
Leone and Laura Hoffmeister — are running for reelection. The extension is also supported by city council candidates Harmesh Kumar, Brent Trublood, Terry Kremin and Adam Foster. Candidates Patrick Hogoboom and Nick Lynch oppose the extension. City Manager Valerie Barone earlier this summer gave a dire financial forecast for the city if it didn’t have Measure Q funds, including
Council, from page 4 payment strategy for unfunded liabilities, and working with the community on the next phases of the CNWS development — the preparation of more specific plans for the future development and open space and recreation. Hoffmeister says she believes the current council has done a good job maintaining essential services during the recession, and working to help reduce the crime rate in the city, seeing it decrease 6 percent over the last four years. The life-long Concord resident says that the council must develop economic development strategies to attract and retain businesses and jobs, and improve property values. She also says the establishment of the selffunded auto dealer and hotel marketing programs have been successful. She’s also like to continue street beautification programs, street sweeping and pot hole repair programs, to improve property values.
Terry Kremin Kremin, who ran unsuccessfully for a council seat in 2012, says that in the first year on the job he would focus on “meeting with the people actually doing the work and learning how we can improve our city services starting at the ground up.” He would “seriously look at our budget plans, especially the current over-spending on one area (Todos Santos) while neglecting the rest of the city,” citing the expense of more than $300,000 for arches just in the plaza. “We must find a way to keep Todos going while also seriously attending to other areas of our city.” He says he feels the current council has not done enough with curbing unfunded liabilities. Identifying himself as a teacher/scientist, Kremin says that he would help
ensure financial security for the city by actively pursuing new job opportunities, become an active part of the Northern Contra Costa waterfront development group, look to leasing CNWS space to a solar energy company quickly, and slow the base’s development to a “more moderate and desirable” pace.
Dr. Harmesh Kumar Kumar, who ran unsuccessfully for a council seat in 2012, says his priorities his first year in office would be to balance the budget, create more service-oriented programs for residents of Concord, keep Measure Q campaign promises and collaborate with private businesses “for more common good.” The licensed clinical psychologist and local businessman also wants to promote more affordable housing for veterans, seniors, teachers and public safety service providers. Kumar has served as chair and commissioner on Concord’s Human Relations Commission, and served on the Measure Q oversight committee. He says he would like to work to “create world-class education and training center in Concord,” and he promotes peace, harmony and a social justice agenda, working to curb homelessness, improve gang prevention programs and “take real steps to … improve quality of life with a dream of a zero crime rate in our city with main focus on prevention rather than reactive intervention.”
Ron Leone Current Vice M a y o r Leone, first elected to the council in 2010, says his priorities in the next year
Page 5
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Volunteers, under the guidance of Andrew Wegele, turned an unsightly vacant lot near BART into a source of fresh produce for local food banks.
making $4 million in cuts over the next two fiscal years. “There are no easy cuts out there,” Barone told the council, saying that most of the cuts would have to be made to the city’s police department, Concord’s biggest expense. To keep patrols at a level the city needs, she says “vital services” like traffic enforcement and gang prevention would suffer, if not be eliminated altogether. Other possibilities include closing the city jail, increasing the workload of officers,
looking at longer response times in emergencies and overall “decreasing public safety and the quality of life in Concord.” Barone also listed cutting city staff and the city’s economic development funds, both of which she feels will hurt the city. Concord would also use up any reserves it has built up, without making a dent in “unfunded liabilities,” like deferred maintenance on roads and public buildings, as well as employee pension costs.
would be to continue to balance the city budget, pay its debt for unfunded liabilities, and identify funds to hire additional police officers to patrol Concord neighborhoods. He also would look for ways to strengthen the local economy and raise property values, and develop a strategic plan with the Mt. Diablo Unified School District to improve Concord schools. Leone says that he is proud of the work the council has accomplished in his tenure, including balancing the city budget every year with $22 million in reserves for emergencies, which has allowed the city to save its popular Music in the Park Series at Todos Santos Plaza, reinstituted the Concord Police Department’s anti-gang efforts, and helped reduce the homeless population by 44 percent through a beefedup homeless task force. The longtime educator, who is currently serving as interim principal of Northgate High School, says that there is “more work to be done,” like hiring additional police officers to patrol local neighborhoods and attracting a four-year college to the redeveloped CNWS.
Costa County, he is active in the community and has attended city council meetings regularly. He says he feels the current city council has left the city with a $7 million structural deficit and their 10year plan does not envision balancing the budget. He is also concerned about the unfunded liabilities, and feels the council has not done enough to help improve public education in Concord.
Brent Trublood P u b l i c s c h o o l t e a c h e r Trublood says the three things he would like to accomplish in his first year on the council would be balancing the budget, finding a way to deal with the unfunded liabilities, and trying to improve the city/school partnership to benefit education in the city. He also wants to focus on the CNWS, and make it a priority to get a four-year university built in Concord. As a member of the Restoration Advisory Board for the CNWS and a member of the Economic Opportunity Council for Contra
Concord City Council Candidates Forum Sept. 29, 6-8 p.m. Time: 6-8 p.m. Concord City Council Chambers 1950 Parkside Drive, Concord Open to the Public
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City Treasurer Thomas J. Wentling Longtime Concord City Treasurer Wentling says if reelected, he will focus on the continued security of invested funds, making sure the city receives the maximum return on its investments. He also would focus on the smooth running of the finance office within the city. He says his main qualifications are the fact he has done the job for the last 29 years. His background as a businessman also gives him “the understanding of the world of finance.”
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Louis Mazzarella Mazzarella helped lead the charge two years ago to keep the position of Treasurer an elected one. He says if elected, he will work to eliminate the city’s deficit, look for better accountability, and he suggests that city workers volunteer one hour a day for the city. He hopes to bring “stability and control” to the position, making it more than a “part-time ceremonial” position, and he would donate any earnings from the job back to the city.
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Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
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Denon & Doyle Disc Jockey Company and activities will be available for children, including face painting and outdoor bowling. According to Taste CoChair Carmen Angulo, the inaugural Taste of Monument came about as a result of various businesses lining Monument Boulevard, networking with one another, more than a year ago. “They were hoping that they could organize efforts to highlight the Monument Community’s vibrancy and begin changing the perceptions held by those who don’t live and operate businesses here.” Soon after, the Monument Business Network was formed, and the idea of a signature event to highlight businesses and to celebrate the Monument Community’s diversity and various types of cuisine was born. When asked who will benefit from this event, Angulo mentioned the residents of the Monument Community, local
businesses, and the Concord community at-large. “In addition to being a fun, familyfriendly event, the Taste aims to promote healthy and nutritious eating and exposure to food outside of one’s culture,” she said. “We hope that the Taste of Monument will be an enjoyable eye opener as to all of the rich and diverse offerings originating from the various cultures that reside in the Monument Community, and that attendees will come back and patronize these restaurants again in the future.” Taste of Monument CoChair Maribel Delgado envisions that this event will kick off an annual fall tradition. “We anticipate that people will fall in love with the offerings this year and come back next year, bringing their friends, with the crowd growing more and more each year. We also expect that more businesses and restaurants will join the Monument Business Network once they see the power of
working together to help promote our community.” The Taste’s sponsors include Carbajal Insurance, the City of Concord, Diablo Valley Bowl, Dolan’s Lumber, the Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce, Monument Impact, Los Rancheros, Segovia’s Janitorial Services, SIMEC, Travis Credit Union, and US Bank. For more information on this free event, which also includes free parking, contact Delgado at 925-682-8248 (ext. 2240) or Maribel@monumentimpact.org. Also visit “Taste of Monument” on Facebook or follow @TasteofMonument on Twitter. Carlyn Obringer chairs the City of Concord Planning Commission. Professionally, she focuses on California education issues as an Education Policy Analyst. Carlyn resides in Concord with her husband, Justin, and dog Crystal. Contact her at carlyno@yahoo.com.
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Department has been closed for renovation since April; Pittsburg DMV also shut EMILY WRIGHT Correspondent
Drivers, start your engines. The Concord Department of Motor Vehicles will reopen its doors at 8 a.m. on Monday, Sept. 29. The office closed in April for renovations, which include many upgrades to the heating, air conditioning and ventilation system. It will have new furniture and water fountains. The walls have been updated with a new cream colored paint. There is also more ADA accessibility, such as counters for the handicapped and ADA upgrades to the restrooms. “There are new video monitors, which will show some DMV information, but also advertising, weather and trivia,” Department of Motor Vehicles spokesperson Jessica Gonzales said. “They were installed through a vender, not the DMV.”
Though there are some technology upgrades, Gonzales says that it was mainly a facility update rather than a technology update. However, it wasn’t without its setbacks, as during the building renovation asbestos was discovered below the office floor. “Due to the age of the building, the adhesive used when the flooring was originally installed contained asbestos,” Gonzales said. “It was abated during the renovation process and all proper processes and procedures were followed.” The Concord DMV was one of several ones in the area that were closed this summer, including Pittsburg’s. People who would have normally visited Concord or Pittsburg found themselves traveling to other locations in the Bay Area in order to take care of car registration, licensing requirements, or other business. Offices such as Walnut Creek, Vallejo, Pleasanton and even Tracy were impacted. “[Concord] closed for renovations in April,” Gonzales stated. “Out of 170 field offices, we do about 12 reno-
vations in areas around the state each year. We had another office that was scheduled to close near there, but we cancelled that because so many were closed in the area.” The Vacaville DMV was the office which had also been scheduled to close, but the renovations were postponed. Still, some people had to wait for many weeks in order to get an appointment at the Walnut Creek DMV. According to Gonzales, the reasons behind having two offices closed at the same time, in the same area, were partly because of work crews’ schedules. Facility ownership also factored into the situation. Not all DMV offices are located in buildings owned by the state. “It just depends on when they could do the work,” Gonzales said. “Sometimes it does overlap.” The impact the closed offices had did not go unnoticed by local residents and city officials. “For a while people were able to go over to the Pittsburg DMV office, but that one closed; so with that one being closed and Concord closed it’s a higher
burden on the general public,” said Concord City Councilwoman Laura Hoffmeister. “All the other offices were having to pick up the load and, of course, Walnut Creek being the closest, has the highest impact. So I’m expecting that when Concord opens up that it will relieve some of the burden from the Walnut Creek office.” When Concord and Pittsburg closed, workers were transferred to other offices in hopes of reducing inconvenience to the public. “There are only so many computers, though, so having extra staff doesn’t necessarily mean that they’re as quick, because you only have so many computers to type everything in and input everything,” Hoffmeister pointed out. “There’s a finite amount of space and time and appointments…in Walnut Creek”. With more offices open in the area, DMV workers are hopeful that less strain will be experienced at local offices. “All of the employees will come back,” Gonzales said. “The waits will decrease.”
October 2014
Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
Page 7
Origami sculpture highlights Kitakami Sister City visit JOHN JACKSON Concord Pioneer
Since 1974, the City of Concord has shared a mutual kinship — separated by 4,960 miles — with the town of Kitakami, Japan. This October, that bond will be celebrated with a visit by more than 40 Japanese guests who are arriving to share friendship, food and goodwill. The sister city agreement between Concord and Kitikami began four decades ago “as a result of two cable TV executives meeting at a conference and becoming friends,” says Mary Rae Lehman, a member of the Concord Ambassadors, the nonprofit group responsible for supporting and fostering the ongoing relationship with Kitakami. “Court Kirkeeng of Concord and Dr. Zenji Katagata of Kitakami persuaded their city leaders to approve the relationship and enlisted the help of other citizens to make the partnership work.” The two men felt that such a relationship would cultivate exchanges in ideas, education, culture and social growth. Out of this, the Concord Ambassadors was born. As a part of the sister city agreement, official visits take place every five years and the two cities alternate visits. “This will be our 40th
Anniversary,” Lehman says. “We have received confirmation that a delegation of 46 folks will be arriving in Concord the evening of October 1.” The delegation will stay five days. Kitakami is a city of about 95,000 people in northern Japan, sitting 307 miles from the capital of Tokyo. It is famously known as one of the best places to view the spring cherry blossoms bloom in Japan. The centerpiece of the delegation’s five-day visit will be the crane memorial at the Brenden Theater that is a tribute to the Japanese disaster that took place just over three years ago. In March of 2011, a 9.0 earthquake and subsequent tsunami struck the area near Kitakami. The quake devastated the region and struck an emotional chord in the hearts of Concord residents. Immediately following the 2011 tragedy, the Concord Ambassadors felt the need to get the community involved. At a vigil in Todos Santos Plaza, scores of volunteers folded 1,001 cranes as a symbol of our hope and caring for a quick and full recovery from the earthquake,” says Lehman. In Japanese culture, folding 1,000 origami paper cranes will make a person’s wish come true. As
Lehman found out that day, Concord wished that their sister city would be make whole. “To our surprise the community outpouring of love for the Japanese communities resulted in the folding of over 11,000 cranes,” Lehman says. The cranes were of varying shades and gorgeous colors and many of them included handwritten messages. The Ambassadors stored the cranes until early this year when Oakland artist created the colorful art display that hangs majestically from the ceiling of the Brenden Theater in Concord. His tribute was unveiled in March in front of many onlookers, including the Mayor of Kitakami and his office staff, who joined the emotional celebration by Skype. The October visit will be the first time that anyone from the Kitakami delegation has seen the display in person. The visitors will be lodging in host homes and sightseeing with Mayor Tim Grayson and other officials, and paying visits to historical sites, including Salvio Pacheco Adobe and the John Muir House. The stay will conclude with a celebratory brunch at Diablo Japanese American Religious and Cultural Center.
Host homes may still be needed for the October 1-5 Kitakami visit. For information, contact Mary Rae Lehman at maryrae.lehman@cityofconcord.org. For more information on the Sister City program and a schedule of events for the visit, go to concordambassadors.org.
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Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
October 2014
From the desk of . . .
Resource Officers head back to Concord schools GUY SWANGER
POLICE CHIEF Fall is here and so is the Concord Pioneer. As a Concord resident who lives in the Clayton Pioneer delivery area, I have been one of the fortunate few to receive the newspaper on Fridays for the past few years. And now the Concord Pioneer is making its way to a larger part of Concord. To the Pioneer staff, thank you for bringing a local print media feel to our doorsteps. I am honored to be asked to share the many new and exciting things happening in public safety in Concord. As some of you are aware, School Resource Officers have reappeared in the local high schools. The Mount Diablo Unified School District Board and the Concord City Council made it clear during their joint community meeting that the School Resource Officer program was a priority. Led by Mayor Tim Grayson and Board Member Cheryl Hansen, a joint funding commitment was created and the SRO program is alive again. Superintendent Nellie Meyer has shown tremendous commitment in the program and I cannot thank her enough for her leadership. Officer Renelle
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Valeros is assigned to Mount Diablo High School, Officer Aron Daggoo is at Concord High School and Officer Murtazah Ghaznawi is at Ygnacio Valley High School. Speaking of schools, I hope some of you who have children attending our local elementary schools have noticed the new LeapFrog instructional tools. A Concord Police Department employee, Isidro Llanos, had worked with LeapFrog prior to coming to the police department. He is also a local, graduating from Concord High School. He has been joined by other police officers and elected officials and distributed more than 2,000 LeapFrog educational tools to local elementary schools, the Monument Crisis Center, First Five, and a number of local community- based organizations. Isidro epitomizes the dedication to the community shown by so many department members. And to top off his summer, he and another CPD employee, Raul Alvarado, volunteered to coach in the Junior Giants program and were selected coaches of the year. Nice job to both of you. Volunteering at schools and at youth programs is one of the main foundations to a safe community. Whether it is sports, reading, supervision and safety, or just general support, get involved! Your time
dedicated to our schools and youth is a great investment. Guy Swanger is Concord’s Chief of Police. Send questions or comments to ContactCPD@cityofconcord.org.
Forum Welcome, Pioneer I’m a firm believer that a hardcopy newspaper delivered to my doorstep and to those of my neighbors is an essential way for us to know what is going on around us. It is a way to keep us connected, as well as informed of local events and personalities. For this reason, I’m very happy to welcome The Concord Pioneer. I urge my friends and neighbors in Concord not only to read the articles and stories, but to also to support those who take out advertisements in the paper. The Concord Pioneer is a free paper, funded by those advertisements. Welcome to The Concord Pioneer! George Fulmore Concord The Pioneer welcomes opinions and comments from our readers. Send yours to editor@concordpioneer.com. Limit 175 words. We do not accept anonymous letters.
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goal is to use this garden as a model,” he says. “I’d love to see Harvest Lots used as a blueprint so that others can do the same thing.” Wegele hopes more people will get involved with the Harvest Lots project. He says, “The garden requires a lot of maintenance, and that’s just the gardening part of the project.” Wegele would like to see a greater variety of plants in the garden and larger crops of fruit and vegetables cultivated. That, however, would require more weeding, composting and maintenance than he and his volunteers are currently able to accomplish.
WATER AN ISSUE Expanding the garden will also require more water. “With the drought this year, we’re looking at a whole new set of challenges,” he added.
Harvest Lots estimates it will cost $10,000 to have a well installed on the property. “The garden definitely produced a larger crop when water wasn’t as big a concern as it is this year,” Wegele said. Harvest Lots has received donations from Ashby Lumber, Chevron, CVS and PG& E, who donated six fruit trees. They are still in need of compost bins, rain barrels and solar panels in addition to the aforementioned well. Wegele is currently trying to renegotiate a renewal of the property’s lease. Asked if he’d like to see Harvest Lots purchase the property outright, he answers with palpable excitement, “That would be great!” He’s quick to point out that organizing that level of fund-raising isn’t currently possible. If you’d like to donate, volunteer or otherwise contribute, please contact www.harvestlots.org.
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Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
Mayor, from page 1 greater. The opportunity is not without problems, but the overriding feeling is one of being challenged to use the knowledge, experience, expertise and technological advances of the past to create something far better than we enjoy today. The process of developing this huge parcel has been, and will continue to be, transparent. Our citizens met many times on Saturday mornings and contributed serious input to what was being planned. Fourteen development plans were created and presented to the Cit-
izen’s Committee, comprised of many talented people, including non-residents, because we appreciate the regional nature of our opportunity. Over a two-year period the plans were studied, whittled down, modified, and finally, with a significant majority consensus, condensed to two plans which were provided to the Concord City Council. One was selected and that became our beginning point. Late this year, or early next year, we will select the Master Builder who will
Disaster Prep, from page 1 earthquake, flood, hurricane, fire or some other event that can cause emergencies. “The number one reason people say they are not prepared — or why they don’t need to be prepared — is that they say, ‘Well, my neighbor is prepared,’” Veal says. “That’s not a good enough reason on many levels. What if your neighbor is in San Francisco and the bridge goes down again, or something like that? Both men also stress that
Basic Emergency Kit Water — one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation; Food — at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food; Battery-powered or hand-crank radio and a NOAA weather radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both; Flashlight and extra batteries; First-aid kit; Whistle to signal for help; Dust mask to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting, and duct tape to shelter in place; Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation; Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities; Manual can opener for food; Local maps; Cell phone with chargers, inverter or solar charger.
disasters aren’t limited to earthquakes, as there are many types of things that can happen, and too often people don’t want to think the worse. The two have given many training presentations to local organizations, including schools. “Some schools are better prepared than others,” Yonge says. “Not only do kids have to be prepared to shelter there up to 72 hours, so do the teachers. Be sure you have everything you need, such as medication.” He urges parent clubs to work with their schools to make sure students have the appropriate emergency kits on site, with food and water enough for three days. While disaster preparedness is a short class, and teaches such things as using a fire extinguisher appropriately and knowing where the gas and water shut-offs are at home, the regular CERT classes are much more extensive. The six-week courses are conducted with the Concord’s CERT program, and run twice a year, Veal says. Once someone is CERTtrained, they can don the special CERT vest, which allows them on site during various emergencies, Yonge says.
E MERGENCY NEEDS So what is needed most in an emergency? Yonge says the first thing families should do is have a disaster plan: practice fire drills and communication. “If phones are down in a disaster, make sure you pinpoint someone out of the area that everyone will contact to check in. Also, have a meeting place, both near your house in case of fire, like out at mailbox, or
oversee the ultimate development of the parcel. For openers, we already know that more than 60 percent of the land will remain in open space. This is huge. It dwarfs the percentage of open space and parkland now existing in Concord. The message has been sent, this land shall remain people-friendly, with parks and promenades and development-free hillsides. I visualize soccer fields, softball fields, creek-side development for weekend outings, and beautiful recreational areas for families to spend their leisure time. We are going to have a variety of housing, office buildings and commercial
space. There has to be a way of paying for all the family amenities we are planning. Infrastructure will be a challenge. With the demise of the redevelopment agencies in California, we lost the advantage of tax-increment financing, but the need for roads and sewers and other services still exist. We will find answers in the development process. In future reports I plan to provide information of a specific nature on our progress as we pursue the realization of our dream.
further away if you are separated by an earthquake and can’t get home, like a local parking lot.” He also stresses to have a plan for family pets. Veal says another important item to have on hand is a “go-bag,” a bag packed with three-days worth of clothes, sundries, water, snacks and medication. “Keep three on hand — in your house, at work and in your car. You never know when you’ll need it.” Also, both Yonge and Veal say to get to know your neighbors. “Not only can you help each other out in an emergency, but it’s important to know their habits. Know when their cleaning crew comes in, for instance, so if you see suspicious people around your neighbor’s house on the wrong day, you can report it.” There is a lot to remember in preparing for emergencies, but Yonge says there are many resources available to get up to speed. Residents can visit the CERT website at www.ConcordCERT.org, or the national website www.ready.gov, which offers tips on disaster preparation.
local residents own earthquake insurance, but that his office has fielded calls almost every day since the Napa quake inquiring about it. “Many people see it as a big expense, but the thought of not having it if your house is knocked off its foundation is very scary,” he says. In the Bay Area, earthquake insurance premiums can range anywhere from $700 to $2,500 or more per year, depending on the deductible. Van Wyck says rather than worry, homeowners — and renters — should use the handy tool on the California Earthquake Authority’s website, www.earthquakeauthority.com. “You can enter in the size of your house, ZIP code, number of stories among other things, and the website will offer up a list of policies available from participating insurers, such as Allstate, State Farm and Farmer’s, among others,” he says. The deductible is where the premiums change, he says. For instance, if you have a one-story home in Concord priced around $300,000, you can choose a 10 percent deductible, or $30,000, at a higher premium. A 15 percent deductible of $45,000 would charge a lower premium. He also says that there is affordable renter’s insurance for quakes for as low as about $130 per year. Ultimately, purchasing earthquake insurance may not be as affordable a disaster preparation as putting together a safety kit, but it’s about the same thing. Being prepared.
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One other fear that the recent rumblings up in Napa unearthed for local residents is how to pay for damage if an earthquake strikes home. Literally. According to the California Earthquake Authority, earthquake insurance among homeowners has dropped from 33 percent in 1996 to just 10 percent today, despite the fact that insurers are required to offer an earthquake package as part of their homeowner and renters policies. State Farm agent Doug Van Wyck estimates that only about 10 percent of
Email comments and questions to tim@timgrayson.us.
Page 9
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The Clayton Pioneer and the Concord Pioneer are monthly publications delivered free to homes and businesses in 94517, 94518, 94519 and 94521. ZIP code 94520 is currently served by drop site distribution. The papers are published by Clayton Pioneer, Inc., Tamara and Robert Steiner, PO 1246, Clayton, CA 94517. The offices are located at 6200 Center St. Suite H, Clayton, CA 94517 LET US KNOW Weddings, anniversaries, births and deaths all weave together as part of the fabric of our community. Please let us know of these important events. We ask only that the announcement be for a resident in our home delivery area. Submit on our website and be sure to attach a JPG photo that is at least 3 MB. Also on the website are forms for calendar items, events & press releases. LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Both Pioneer newspapers welcome letters from our readers. As a
general rule, letters should be 175 words or less and submitted at least one week prior to publication date. Letters concerning current issues will have priority. We may edit letters for length and clarity. All letters will be published at the editor’s discretion. Please include name, address and daytime telephone number. We will not print anonymous letters. E-mail your letter to editor@concordpioneer.com. Letters must be submitted via Email. CIRCULATION as of Sept. 2014 The Concord Pioneer is delivered monthly to 30,000 homes and businesses Papers are delivered by carriers for ABC Direct around the last Friday of the month. To stop delivery for any reason, call the office at (925) 672-0500 or send an email to circulation@concordpioneer.com. If you are NOT receiving the Pioneer, please check the distribution map on the website. If you live in the shaded area and are not receiving the paper, please let us know. If you are not in the shaded area, please be patient. We will come to your neighborhood soon. The Clayton Pioneer is delivered by US Mail to 5,500 homes and businesses in 94517 around the second Friday of the month. SUBSCRIPTIONS To subscribe to either the Clayton Pioneer or the Concord Pioneer, call the office at (925) 672-0500. Subscriptions are $35/year for each paper, $60/year for both.
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October 2014
SPORTS Concord driver sets world speed record JAY BEDECARRÉ Concord Pioneer
The auto racing landscape is filled with second- and third-generation drivers carrying on a family tradition behind the wheel. They were driving on tracks and offcourse as youngsters long before they could get a regular driver’s license. Concord’s Damion Gardner, on the other hand, didn’t come from a racing family and was a relative “oldtimer” before he entered his first car race yet now he’s a world record holder. This month, the 38-yearold Clayton Valley High grad shattered the world record for sprint cars at the legendary Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah when he clocked 211 miles per hour in the Green Demon sprint car, 33 mph better than anyone else ever in a sprint car. Gardner grew up riding motorcycles, working on all kinds of vehicles and even got involved with a friend of his dad who was into truck pulls. “Anything with motors,” is how he described his interests. “We always did stuff with cars. Fixed ‘em up. For some reason, I always wanted to race cars.” He collaborated with a friend to put together a street stock race enduro car using
Photo courtesy surfnsprint.com
Concord’s Damion Gardner, a 38-year-old Clayton Valley High grad, shattered the world record for sprint cars at the legendary Bonneville Salt Flats in northwestern Utah this month clocking 211 miles per hour in his Green Demon sprint car.
an engine he borrowed from his sister’s pickup truck put in a 1980 Malibu. That year he entered four races and caught the racing bug. He then spent a couple years driving dwarf cars in Placerville, Antioch and Chico before he bought his own sprint car team. He found a number of local sponsors, had a great volunteer crew and began entering weekly races at Placerville in
a winged sprint car. A couple years later he switched to non-wing sprint cars and began “having real good success winning races.” In 2005 he was hired for his first full-time ride on a team in the USAC California Racing Association. The No. 50 car owned by Bruce Bromme Jr. and Ron Chaffin raced all over Southern California, Arizona and Las Vegas. That year he won the
series championship. Two years later he moved to Indianapolis starting his own team again sponsored by Pace Electronics to compete in the USAC National Sprint Cup Series throughout the Midwest on dirt and paved tracks where he competed against the like of NASCAR drivers J.J. Yeley and Kasey Kahne. Several years later his sponsor passed away and the
family didn’t want to continue despite a successful team that claimed two Oval Nationals and the Chili Bowl Midget Nationals among its accomplishments. He returned to Concord last year and began competing again with his own team in the USAC CRA series, taking the 2013 title with five race wins and seems on track for a repeat this year with 11 victories to date. The season
concludes in November in Arizona. Gardner’s currently on a four-race win streak. After losing his sprint car sponsor and before returning west Gardner was trying to figure out what he was going to do. He was at the 2012 Performance Racing Industry show in Indianapolis when he ran into Steve “Biggie” Watt of Maxwell Industries. They began brainstorming about what they could do “outside the box of sprint car racing.” They were leaning on the Speed Demon while they threw out ideas and came up with trying to set a land speed record at Bonneville. Speed Demon is the world’s fastest piston engine wheel driven car having reached a top speed of 462 mph. Gardner rounded up sponsors and put together a 2013 team that went to Bonneville, the famous spot in northwestern Utah where the legends of racing have set records in a variety of vehicles for 100 years. That year they clocked 194 mph, well above the old sprint car mark of 178. In his sprint car racing career he’s reached a top speed of “around 160.” He knew they could do much better and returned this August with hopes of
See Speed, page 11
Do your job Goodell or move aside TYLER LEHMAN SPORTS TALK It’s no secret to any in America that the National Football League has had numerous scandals over the past few months. Between dealing with several players being charged with domestic violence and Adrian Peterson getting arrested for child abuse, the NFL’s image is becoming severely tarnished. The actions of a select few NFL players have been disgusting and unacceptable.
Not only that, but the way the NFL has handled the aftermath of these situations has been nothing short of a disaster. It isn’t all Roger Goodell’s fault, but a lot of blame goes to the NFL commissioner for how he has dealt with the various scandals. The most glaring mistake Goodell made in the past couple of months is his handling of the Ray Rice situation. After initially seeing a video of Rice pulling his unconscious fiancée-now wife, Janay Palmer, out of a casino elevator, Goodell handed down a measly twogame suspension to Rice. The outcry over the short suspension was huge and as a result Goodell was forced to
backtrack. He attempted to soothe the masses by declaring that players charged with domestic abuse must have no shorter than a six-game ban. Shortly after Goodell announced the NFL’s new policy on domestic abuse, TMZ released the video of Rice beating his wife in the hotel elevator. With a powerful left hook Rice knocked his wife unconscious. After seeing that video for “the first time” Goodell immediately suspended Rice indefinitely and shortly after the Baltimore Ravens released their star runningback. Various women’s rights groups are calling for Goodell’s resignation, and who can
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blame them? The situation could not have been handled much worse. What type of precedence does it set when the NFL only gave a twogame suspension to a man who knocked a woman unconscious? Not only was the Rice situation handled poorly, but the Peterson issue seems to get worse with new revelations. Peterson beat his fouryear-old son with a tree branch as punishment during the summer and in the process the child received numerous lacerations prompting a doctor to report the injuries to the authorities. The photos of the child’s injuries were made public and the Minnesota Vikings
suspended Peterson for one game. He was then temporarily reinstated for week three of the season. Needless to say there was an outcry over how the Vikings handled the situation and various sponsors are pulling away from the Vikings. The team quickly reversed course and placed the league’s top running back on the exempt/commissioner’s permission list — meaning he is suspended indefinitely. Last Friday, Goodell held an hour-long press conference in New York City acknowledging that he made a number of mistakes while pledging to “get things right.” The reviews of his
press conference answers were not very good and the heat and spotlight remains on him and the league. Goodell needs to take control immediately. He is getting paid tens of millions of dollars to keep the NFL running smoothly. It’s time to step up and do his job properly or step down so the NFL can find someone who is capable of being a proper commissioner. Tyler Lehman is a sophomore at Diablo Valley College and a 2012 CVHS graduate. He plans to major in journalism and wants to be a sports writer. Email your comments or questions to Tyler@claytonpioneer.com.
October 2014
Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
DVAL fall sports seasons in full swing JAY BEDECARRÉ Concord Pioneer
Diablo Valley Athletic League fall sports league play is underway for girls tennis, volleyball and golf while the balance of the current sports seasons—football, cross country and water polo—will begin DVAL schedules in the second week of October as teams and athletes search for strong results that will qualify them for North Coast Section competition which will lead to state finals in some sports. Concord, Clayton Valley Charter and Northgate are fielding teams in all fall sports. Berean Christian is not part of DVAL football, water polo or golf while Mt. Diablo, the league’s senior member school, will not be fielding golf or water polo teams. Ygnacio is not in water polo and College Park in golf.
FOOTBALL DVAL football teams have done quite well, thank you, during recent years in the NCS playoffs. Coach Brian Hamilton’s Concord Minutemen won the 2010 NCS title and took second a year later. Tim Murphy took over the Clayton Valley Charter team in 2012, brought the school its first-ever NCS football title that fall and just missed a trip
Photo by Jay Bedecarre
CLAYTON VALLEY CHARTER’S TENNIS TEAM is looking for a top finish in the DVAL this fall. Singles players, from left, Erin Wardle, Dalia Anwar and Maria Sparvoli plus Preet Nijjar (not pictured) will be leading the Eagles through league play and hopefully to the NCS tournament.
the inaugural CIF State Bowl game. Ygnacio Valley won NCS titles in 1999 (coached by Murphy) and 2005 while CVHS was runner-up to Las Lomas in a triple overtime 2003 thriller. Last year, Northgate, Concord and Clayton Valley all advanced past the first round of NCS. College Park lost to NG in an opening section game. Clayton Valley (4-0) has had quite the off-season that included a two-game suspen-
sion to Murphy for holding preseason team workouts last spring before the NCS prescribed time period. They also had America’s No. 1 high school recruit, Kahlil McKenzie, transfer to the Eagles from De La Salle. He is one of six CVCHS transfers, none of whom was cleared to play yet this season. Northgate (3-1) under new coach Ben Ballard and Concord (4-0) figure to challenge two-time defending DVAL champion Eagles. All three
Photo by Joe Villoso courtesy of Lifetouch
Ygnacio Valley high School opened in 1960 and on Sept. 5 the Warriors hosted the first night game with their permanent lights, which were installed this year with Measure C funds from MDUSD. YVHS defeated visiting Mission of San Francisco (right, on offense) 18-14. Coach Phillip Puentes’ team is now 2-1 with two more preseason games on tap before they open DVAL play Nov. 10 against traditional rival Northgate.
Speed, from page 10 exceeding 200 mph. The sessions were rained out so the team came back in September. The first day they again ran 194 mph. Before the second day they made adjustments and had runs of 205 and then the record 211 mph. The car runs five miles down a straight line course with a centerline and cones on each side. GPS clocks the time with the top speed between the fourth and fifthmile marks used to determine the mark. “The salt flats surface is grippy, yet very slick. It feels like you’re going through slushy snow,” Gardner explains. This record effort has been captured for a documentary being produced by Loudpedal Productions. “The World’s Fastest Sprint Car” is due for completion by the end of November. When he’s not racing, Gardner is busy with his growing design company. He sees no reason he can’t continue racing for many years to come, although he’s done with the speed record chase. “I have the readout listing my 2013 and 2014 times and that’s good enough for me.”
top contenders play this Friday and then have byes the following week before opening league play Oct. 10. Bryan Shaw’s Mt. Diablo Red Devils are 2-2 with one more non-league game while Ygnacio Valley (2-1) has a pair of non-league games upcoming. The Warriors are playing a full slate of home games on campus under the lights for the first time ever this fall. They dropped a gut-wrenching 29-26 game in the last minute to Dublin last Friday. Clayton Valley, De La Salle and Concord have all racked up impressive offensive stats in non-league games. Clayton Valley’s 49 points per game average is the lowest among the three. Running back Miles Harrison is averaging over 10 yard a carry for CVCHS while seeing limited duty in a couple blowout victories. Concord High’s offense features a trio of senior standouts—quarterback Mitch Daniels, RB Malik Blackburn and receiver Mason Knight. The Minutemen won by forfeit last week over a depleted Oakland High who could not field enough players for their game. Last year Concord lost 49-48 to Clayton Valley and a similar shootout may be in the works this year. De La Salle (4-0) is again among the top 10 USA prep teams having played two games on ESPN already this season in the aftermath of the exposure the school has received with the summertime release of the motion picture “When The Game Stands Tall.” The Spartans of secondyear coach Justin Alumbaugh host Southern California power (No. 22 in USA) Servite this Saturday in Concord. DLS has won NCS for 22 straight years.
CROSS COUNTRY Northgate won the 2013 DVAL cross country girls title with CVCHS second and College Park third. College Park ran away with the boys crown while Clayton Valley Charter was second and Ygnacio third.
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Walnut Country Swim Team moved up three places to take third in combined scoring at the 48th annual Concord Swim Championships. Head coach Adrian Lohse (right) and assistant Briana Butler helped orchestrate the dramatic turnaround for the team during this past summer rec swim season. Lohse recently inked a new contract to continue working with the Stingrays.
With a stated goal of becoming the premier swim program in the area, Lohse led the Stingrays to dual meet wins over each of the local teams on their schedule: Gehringer Park, Oakhurst and Springwood. Walnut Country then finished with a combined third place at the Concord City Championships. The team also was second at the Dana Hills-
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hosted Devil Mountain Pentathlon. Seeking to build on this momentum, Lohse created a fall swim program that expands on the recent success. The Eagle Rays swim clinics are open to swimmers from any tea. For more info visit www. walnutcountryeaglerays.com.
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Walnut Country Swim Team inks coach Lohse to build on 2014 season success Walnut Country Swim Team has signed head coach Adrian Lohse to a multi-year contract after successfully orchestrating a dramatic turnaround for the team this past summer rec swim season. After several years of struggling to find a competitive foothold due to a lack of coaching continuity, the Stingrays employed veteran coach Adrian Lohse in 2014. Lohse swam locally for Dana Hills before eventually moving to Springwood, where he began his coaching career. He was responsible for leading the Sycamore Stingrays to a top eight Contra Costa County finish. In his 20 years of coaching experience, he has compiled a .767 dual meet winning percentage. This year Lohse immediately created a spring swim clinic which established stroke technique as the new team priority. As word of his patient, detailed approach spread, the team reports its roster increased by nearly 60% in size from about 120 to over 190 swimmers.
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Diablo FC 00 won the under 14 premier division at the inaugural Jenna Betti Memorial Tournament last month which honored the club’s popular player who was killed in a tragic accident in March. The 00 team includes, front, Ally Carroll; front row from left, Mackenzie Tobin, Kylie Zentner, Anissa Gomez, Sidney Atchison, Carly Scharff, Alicia Perez, Jordan Gregory; back row, Savannah Boone, Chrystina Heuerman, Julia Hagedorn, Colette Rick-Cardinale, Holly Gallagher, Jordan Sweeney, Jessie Verderame, Fiona Valdillez and coach Scott Alexander. The team defeated San Ramon Azuri 01 2-1 in the championship game.
Clayton Valley High School Athletic Hall of Fame committee is accepting athlete nominations for the 2015 induction class until Oct. 15. This will be the fourth class for the Hall, which began during the school’s 50th anniversary year in 2008. Individuals can nominate student athletes for the Hall of Fame. The requirement is that the nominee was a CVHS grad in the years 1959-2004 and was all-league in at least one sport. Nomination forms can be picked up at the high school office. If you have any questions contact Herc Pardi herc_pardi@hotmail.com or Dee Billeter at deebilleter@yahoo.com. The induction takes place next May 16 at Centre Concord.
WINTER BASKETBALL REGISTRATION OPENS FOR ALL OUT SPORTS LEAGUES
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Diablo FC 02 won another summer championship with a 3-0 U12 premier division title game shutout of Heritage Havoc after losing the Jenna Betti Memorial tournament opener to the same team. Diablo FC 99 tied for the U16 Premier championship on points but was moved to second place on a tiebreaker. Diablo FC 97 was runner-up in U19 flight. Diablo FC 02 includes, front row from left, Taylor Davis, Lauren Utne, Vanessa Harley, Olivia Kreamer, Alexis Canas, Jenna West; back row, coach Tafa, Ryan McNevin, Leilani Fabriquer, Haley Fanner, Riley Velez, Alexa Avelar, Lucy Goller, Evelyn Martinez and Molly Maxwell. Not pictured, Maddie Thompson, Megan Gherlone and Clarissa Granados.
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Diablo FC 01 Blue girls won the under 13 silver division at the inaugural Jenna Betti Memorial Tournament last month. The team includes, front row from left, Cydney Walker, Courtney Silva, Kenzie Cummings, Chloe Ormond, Jessica Oledan, Hanako Helton; back row, coach Makaila Griggs, Farah Anwar, Madelyn Jarrett, Abby Halstead, Grace Wenger, Emma Wilcox, Sarah Grigsby, Allie Heinz, and assistant coach Aaron Silva. Not pictured, Olivia Patterson and Vanessa Castrillo. The team precisely reversed the score in a 3-1 win over Vacaville United Xtreme 01 in the championship game.
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Already very popular in Arizona and other parts of the country, pickleball is a racket sport that combines elements of tennis, table tennis and badminton. It’s played with two to four players on a court about half the size of a tennis court with wooden paddles and a plastic whiffle ball. One of the fastest growing sports among adults of all ages, pickleball is especially popular with young adults and adults nearing or in their retirement years. To receive information on upcoming pickleball clinics and leagues in Concord visit teamsideline.com/concord or call 671-3423.
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The Pioneer wants to tell your story The Concord Pioneer is committed to giving the best coverage to everything Concord. We get plenty of information from local high schools, sports leagues and clubs. What we don’t hear about so often are from our neighbors who are competing below that radar screen. There are Concordians who are participating in sports and recreational endeavors that we don’t normally hear about but we’d like to tell their stories too. If you know of someone—or even if you are that someone—let us know what you’re doing and perhaps we’ll find it something our readers would love to read about! Some area youth are going to schools other than the local public high schools or participating on a club sport team that we need to hear from. We always love to report on college or professional athletes from our area. If you’re running, jumping, hiking, biking, swimming, skydiving, bowling, golfing or participating in any of dozens of other sports and recreational activities let us know. Give us a brief rundown and your contact information and we might be in touch with you. It’s as simple as sending an email to sports@concordpioneer.com.
First conceived in 1974, the long-awaited Northgate High School aquatics complex and sports medicine center are now under construction. Primarily funded by MDUSD Measure C, the $8.1 million center is on schedule to be completed this winter. It will include a 40-meter x 25yard, 16-lane pool with a dedicated sports medicine training facility and classroom. The Northgate Community Pride Foundation is currently raising the balance needed to complete the project in time for the spring swim season. To get more information and to donate visit northgatepride.org.
MT. DIABLO WORLD CUP KICKOFFS SATURDAY The three-week long sixth annual Mt. Diablo World Cup tournament for under 10, 12 and 14 boys and girls MDSA divisions runs on Saturdays, Oct. 18, 25 and Nov. 1. The Cup culminates the AYSO fall soccer season with berths in the Area 2C tournament in November at stake for the top finishers on the final weekend of Nov. 1-2. For details on the World Cup visit mdsoccer.org.
October 2014
Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
Page 13
Off-leash parks fun for some dogs; for others, not so much DEBBIE DEMELLO
PET PALS Dogs parks have become more and more popular all over the United States in the last few years. They range in size and design but they all have the same purpose. They provide a place where our canine friends can run off leash and play and socialize with other dogs. But dog parks aren’t for everyone. There are lots of benefits in taking your dog to the dog park. Many behavior problems in dogs are caused by a lack of physical and mental activity. Dogs were born to lead active lives. Some more active than others due to size and breed. But most pet dogs spend the majority of their time alone at
home, napping and eating. Many become bored, lonely and overweight. They have excess energy and no way to expend it so they often come up with activities on their own like chewing on shoes and raiding trash cans. To keep a dog happy, healthy and out of trouble you need to find ways to exercise his brain and body. If your dog enjoys the company of other dogs, visits to the dog park can greatly enrich his life. Some of the benefits of going to the dog park are both physical and mental exercise. Your dog can run around off leash , wrestle with dog friends, fetch toys and investigate new smells. At the dog park dogs get opportunities to maintain their social skills. Dogs, like us, are highly social animals and many enjoy spending time with their own species. Going to the dog park is fun for dog parents too. People can exercise their dogs without
much effort, socialize with other dog lovers, practice off leash training and bond and play with their dogs. There are of course downsides to going to a dog park. First, there are health risks. Healthy, vaccinated dogs are at low risk of becoming ill from going to the dog park. But there are health risks any time your dog interacts with other dogs. If you go to a dog park frequently talk to your veterinarian about vaccinating for Bordatella ( kennel cough). Also keep in mind that there are fleas everywhere including on squirrels and raccoons so provide adequate protection for your dog. Another downside is for dogs who are shy or easily overwhelmed, a visit to the dog park can be very stressful. If your dog has had unpleasant experiences with other dogs in the past he might decide he doesn’t like dogs at all. He could resort to growling, barking, snarling and even biting
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dogs if they approach. It’s always best keep an eye on your dog and observe their body language to determine if they are comfortable. There are also people problems at the dog park. Some people have strong opinions about dog behavior. Dog parents don’t always agree about what’s normal and what’s acceptable during play and what’s truly obnoxious or aggressive. Disagreements can get heated and result in human behavior problems. Many people feel that the benefits of going to a dog park outweigh the risks. Other decide it’s just not a good idea for their dog. To make the best decision for your dog weigh the pros and cons. Visit your local dog park without your dog. Watch and learn.
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Fall Sports,from page 11 Junior Jamie Busby won the girls league meet last year for College Park. Among other top finishers coming back are Megan Coyle (Northgate), Natalie Ruzicka (CVC), Emily Dowey (CP), Jessica Boucher (NG) and Lindsay Mondloch (CVC). Jorge Barne-Velasque won the league championship for Ygnacio Valley last year as a sophomore. Returning to challenge for top honors are Parker Burr (Concord), Tobin Bolter (Berean), David Phair (CP) and Isaac Schick (NG). DVAL has three Wednesday tri-meets in October and the DVAL championships Nov. 1 at Hidden Valley in Pleasant Hill to qualify for NCS in November. De La Salle has won three of the past four NCS cross country championships. Matt Schumann is leading the way for the strong Spartans team this year.
GIRLS TENNIS Northgate has been the tennis powerhouse in the DVAL for many years. Clayton Valley and College Park should vie for second place. DVAL dual matches run until late October with the league meet Oct. 28-30 before NCS team and individual championships in November. Northgate’s Kristina Lencesova and Anna Ostrovsky return as all-DVAL net-
ters to lead the Broncos. Gabby Nobili represented Berean in the NCS Division II singles a year ago. Erica Kemp of College Park is the other first-team all-DVAL tennis player back for this season.
WATER POLO League MVP Liam Williams is joined by allDVAL first-team returnee Mason Tittle to make Northgate the favorite in boys water polo. Four other current Broncos were also given allDVAL mention last year. The Broncos also have three first-team all-DVAL players on their girls team in Marisa DeMeo, Tatum Turetzky and Daniella Sugijanto. All-league goalie Katie Van Tuyl anchors CVCHS. College Park took third at the recent Sierra Shootout. League matches for boys and girls water polo are scheduled Oct. 8, 15 and 22 before the DVAL tournament Oct. 29-Nov. 1 at College Park. NCS tournaments for boys and girls run Nov. 5-15. Last year Carondelet, Northgate and Clayton Valley all reached NCS girls tournaments while Northgate (DII semi-finalists), Clayton Valley and De La Salle were in the boys section playoffs. GIRLS VOLLEYBALL Northgate, Concord, Clayton Valley and College Park
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all advanced to NCS last year. Only the Broncos went past the first round before they were eliminated by eventual finalist Carondelet. Berean Christian also looks strong this season and will likely compete for one of the four DVAL playoff spots. The Broncos defeated Carondelet in a non-league match this fall while Concord was a finalist in the Alameda Tournament after defeating CVCHS in the semis. Jade Lee (NG), MacKenzie Draper (Concord), Jessica Stratton (CV) and Sierra Stratton (CP) made all-DVAL first team as underclassmen last year. The NCS championships run Nov. 11-21.
GIRLS GOLF Concord settled a close season-long battle with Clayton Valley at the league meet last year to win the DVAL crown. Rachel DeLong (CVC), Hailee Espinoza (YV) and Rebecca Walsh (CVC) were top six finishers at DVAL a year ago and competed at NCS, Espinoza as an individual qualifier. Concord and Clayton Valley were team qualifiers along with Carondelet. Ygnacio Valley is hosting the DVAL Championship meet at Diablo Creek in Concord Oct. 21. Dual matches conclude Oct. 16. NCS Division I qualifying meet is Oct. 27 at Lone Tree in Antioch.
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Concord High School reporter Parker Burr contributed to this story.
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Page 14
Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
October 2014
SCHOOLS Northgate
CVCHS
Loss of administrators doesn’t slow Northgate
An unimaginable loss reaffirms frailty of life
Northgate has had an excellent start to the new 20142015 school year. Northgate is a spirited Ron Leone INTERIM community PRINCIPAL with high levels of teaching and learning occurring daily. This year Northgate will initiate a new Strategic Support program that is a targeted program based on student needs and focuses on improving academic performance that aligns with Common Core standards and develops skills required for an inclusive college-bound culture. This will occur three times a week for a half hour per day.
Northgate is currently undergoing almost a complete administrative makeover. Lynda Hayes is the only remaining vice principal from 2013-14. This year there will be two new vice principals and a new principal. Mike Mattos, a retired administrator from Foothill Middle, is temporarily filling in as a vice principal. Rick Aistrope from Santa Rosa has already been hired as a new vice principal. The other two administrators will be coming on board soon. Northgate looks forward to a great year with high expectations. Go Broncos! Ron Leone, retired high school principal welcomes comments and questions. Call him at (925) 680-1776 or email ronaldleone@comcast.net.
Peers play role in Strategic Support T h i s year, Northgate High School is revising its f o r m e r Study Session and Silent SusJulie Jung t a i n e d NORTHGATE Reading CORRESPONDENT periods, implementing a new set of programs aimed to aid students better. For the past six years, Northgate teachers have been preparing for the new Strategic Support program. It’s twotiered method that is designed to help students in a variety of ways, both academic and social, and peers play an important role. The first “arm” is Link Crew, a program specifically for freshman to transition students from middle school to high school. “It’s really to start the freshman off on the right track because, most of the time, nobody guides them through the first year,” said math teacher Pete Ceresa, one of the founders of the new Strategic Support. The second program, Tutorial, is designed for students who have received failing
grades in past classes; they are partnered with qualifying students called mentors, who are their personal tutors. “The goal of the mentors is to get the students to succeed academically in the classes that they were struggling in before,” Northgate junior and mentor Evan Carter said. In order qualify as a mentor or Link Leader, the students must meet certain qualifications. “The qualifications may be based on academics, but it’s beyond that,” Ceresa said. “Mentors and Link Leaders want to help others. Most importantly, they are good role models.” These new programs at Northgate will ultimately help the school’s graduation rate, social environment and the general attitude at school. “Research shows that when students feel connected and supported, they achieve more, stay in school, come to school, and ultimately contribute to the school by giving back in the same way,” said teacher and founder Corinne Starr. Julie Jung is a senior and the feature editor for the Northgate High School newspaper, The Sentinel. She specializes in news and feature stories. Email comments to editor@concordpioneer.com
Robbie Parker
Teen Speak
As a soon-to-be 18-yearold, I have virtually limitless opportunities for the future. I am young, healthy and I have not a sincommitment down. Life
gle life-long dragging me feels infinite. Last week however, everything I thought I knew changed in an instant. On Sept. 11, I lost a friend and teammate to an unimaginable fate. Never will I forget the moment I received that phone call: “Um, Robbie,” said the trembling voice of my water polo team mate.“Wyatt took his own life.” I was blindsided. I tried to respond, but sudden waves of nausea washed over my body. I dropped the phone. I felt faint and disoriented. I asked myself, How is this possible? My friend Wyatt? No, this cannot be real. Seconds later, my mother burst into my room – her eyes flooded with tears. She had also gotten the same sickening news. I looked into her eyes, and my heart sunk. It was so painfully real. The next day, when I took my usual seat in second period, I suddenly realized that in some other classroom, Wyatt’s usual second period desk was empty. I wept openly before my peers. I felt confused and empty, and every single effort following that moment felt insurmountable. Even through a week of school, a passionate candlelight vigil and the funeral service, I am still in disbelief that my friend is gone. Wyatt was not merely a friend to me, but as a teammate, he was like a brother. Our water polo team is one great family; Wyatt brought nothing but joy to my life. Everyone who knew Wyatt loved his sense of humor.
On August days of 104degree weather, he would insist on wearing his jeans and cowboy boots to every land-based workout. Teammates jokingly clamed that Wyatt was my doppelganger in physical appearance — only with 10-times the amount of testosterone and facial hair. Beyond humor however, Wyatt was personable, noble, courageous and exceptionally hardworking. To most, he was more than just a member of CVCHS Water Polo. He was a dedicated student in the Public Service Academy on campus. He was an Eagle Scout who not only volunteered for the community; he worked tirelessly for Dogs for Diabetics, his charity of choice. Wyatt was devoted to his church, and treated everyone with the love he himself felt in God. Tomorrow is never guaranteed. No young man or woman is, at any moment, invulnerable to the unpredictable nature of life. With this in mind, and with the memory of Wyatt in heart, I vow to take every possible opportunity to remind my friends and family exactly how much I love them and why they are so special to me. I will never fully understand why Wyatt chose to cut his own life short, but seeing the outpouring of support for his grieving family, it is now crystal-clear just how loved he was by so many. If Wyatt could have seen how many lives he touched, I know he would have reconsidered. Everyone is fighting his or her own internal battle, but suicide is never the solution. For anyone who may be struggling with depression, or may know someone in need of help, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). Rest in peace Wyatt, we love you. You will live on in the hearts of us all. Robbie Parker is a senior at CVCHS. Send comments to editor@concordpioneer.com
WYATT BREDELL DECEMBER 10, 1998 - SEPTEMBER 11, 2014
Students, teachers mourn passing of popular student O u r C V C H S family is grief-stricken with the passing of sophomore Wyatt BreDavid Linzey dell earlier this month. PRINCIPAL The incredible sorrow, shock and confusion experienced by students and staff alike is a challenge that has brought to the forefront of our attention the emotional difficulties our students encounter as part of life. The impact this teenager’s life and death has had upon our community is truly remarkable. Tears, pain and sorrow filled our hallways and classrooms the past weeks. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Wyatt’s parents and family. Words cannot even begin to convey our heartfelt sorrow for their loss and pain. I want to commend our teachers and staff – especially those who knew Wyatt so well. In their own grief, they were able to focus upon our students’ needs, help them process the tragedy and facilitate healing. Our psychologist, Katelyn James, demonstrated remarkable skill facilitating our counseling staff in supporting students in their grief and guiding our crisis center. Teen depression seems to be a national epidemic. Every
teen at some point in their life will encounter challenges, loss, significant problems that are difficult. When I review all of the potential obstacles students face, it can be daunting: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), eating disorders, family discord and divorce, illness and death of loved ones, loved ones serving in the military who are sent overseas to war, academic pressures to excel and gain admissions to the premier universities, falling in love and breaking up…the list goes on. Being a teen in today’s multi-media world where every friend’s problems are known and felt virtually in a moment’s notice is truly a challenge. Being the parent of that teen is a life filled with ups and downs, opportunities and challenges. With the recent passing of comedian Robin Williams due to suicide, there has been much attention focused upon the mental health condition of depression. We must help friends and family to understand that there is help for depression. Let us encourage those who are suffering with depression to go and get the assistance needed to overcome the toughest of times. And most importantly, give your kids a great big hug today.
CVCHS board turmoil boils over with report findings JAY BEDECARRÉ Concord Pioneer
The end of the last school year was anything but “normal” at Clayton Valley Charter High School as a controversy ultimately led to the termination of administrator Pat Middendorf. Heated public meetings, allegations against executive director Dave Linzey and charges flying over the Internet were followed by the summer break and a successful start to this school year. Then early this month all
the wounds were reopened with the announcement that findings from Oracle Investigations Group exonerated Linzey and led to the resignation of board chairperson Tom Branich over his role last school year in an effort to get Linzey to resign. In some respects those two matters took a back seat to the board’s actions regarding teacher board member Amber Lineweaver. The Oracle findings made “material allegations against Lineweaver,” which prompted non-conflicted
board members (newlyelected chairman Ted Meriam and vice chair Megan Kommer, retired teacher Dick Ellis and parent April Winship) after a special closed board meeting Sept. 2, to call on her to “immediately resign.” Once Lineweaver refused to do so the board voted “no confidence” in her and publicly issued “a laundry list of concerns” that they hoped would prompt her resignation. “The results of the investigation are clearly biased and unsubstantiat-
ed,” Lineweaver said. “I was never even interviewed by Oracle in regards to the complaints against me. I will not resign from the board. I have one agenda — the well-being of CVCHS students, teachers, parents and community. I will continue to stand up for what’s right in spite of any bullying or harassment.” Meriam then issued a statement that included a declaration from Oracle investigator Simone Mueller saying she interviewed Lineweaver June 17 for more than 70 minutes.
Lineweaver responded, “I was interviewed on June 17 in regards to my complaints [against Linzey].” Lineweaver says she was then contacted later via email by Mueller about complaints filed against her but “she never did [interview me]. In August, I emailed her, asking the status of the complaints against me since I had never been interviewed about them. She never responded.” Meriam says Oracle’s work is “closed.” The firm was paid $33,000 for inves-
tigative services since May. A committee is developing a timeline and process to fill the community-atlarge vacancy created by Branich’s resignation for a term that runs through the end of next year. Amidst all this intrigue CVCHS staff and stakeholders have been putting the finishing touches on its charter school reauthorization documents for the Contra Costa County Office of Education, seeking a five-year term. Linzey says he expects the petition to be submitted this week.
October 2014
Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
Page 15
Concord High
Mt. Diablo High
CHS band shines at Twilight Parade
School year off to great start
As the sun was just setting in Walnut Creek on Saturday, Sept. 13, the Concord H i g h S c h o o l Azeema Yahya M a r c h i n g CONCORD HIGH and CORRESPONDENT Band Auxiliary Unit took their place on Main Street. Since the theme of this year’s Walnut Festival Twilight Parade was “100 years of Celebrating Walnut Creek,” it was only appropriate we played “Celebration” by Kool and the Gang. As defending champions of the King Walnut, we gave it our all during our performance. Our energy was up, our music was great, and we definitely put on a show! As the captain of the Auxiliary Unit, Alejandra Alegria, said, “The countless hours of hard work
was worth the two-minute performance we did for our friends, family and community.” I couldn’t agree with her more. Moreover, our Minutemen pride definitely came through during the awards ceremony. The sea of green and gold spirit was unbelievable. And after 30 minutes of non-stop cheering, it was time for the results.
As all our sprit fingers went straight up in the air, we got the results. Although Concord did not win the King Walnut, the Auxiliary Unit placed third, the Marching Band placed second, and the Drum Major placed first. Azeema Yahya is a senior and Co-drum Major. She loves music and plans to attend UC Davis in the fall. Send comments to editor@concordpioneer.com.
The Concord High Marching Band gave a spirited performance at the Walnut Festival Twilight Parade on Sept. 13.
and the Midwest.” One of her college professors had gone to UC Berkeley and encouraged her to check out the Bay Area. Her first job was with Huntington Learning Center before landing a math teaching job at Northgate High in 1999. She also taught math at Edna Hill Middle School in Brentwood and Dublin High. Pfaltzgraff and her partner Julia have 9-year-old twins (boy and girl) and a 7year-old daughter. With her job comes new challenges that began with her rearranging the school office so that she would be amidst her five-member administrative team and the school’s new Concord police officer, Aron Draggoo. Pfaltzgraff was also busy filling nine teacher and two administrator vacancies this summer. The principal’s philosophy is pretty simple: “Do the right thing for the kids.” With that in mind she has altered the school’s mobile device policy, giving teachers “the power” to allow students to use them for academic reasons during class. Students can use their devices at brunch and lunch where Pfaltzgraff is getting to know her students in an informal setting. “The juniors and seniors are figuring out who I am.”
Meadow Homes receives art grant Meadow Homes Elementary School is one of 10 California recipients of the President’s Turnaround Arts Initiative. Established in 2012, this initiative is under the umbrella of the President’s Committee on the Arts and Humanities (PCAH), which supports the belief that a high-quality and integrated arts education can strengthen school reform. Through arts integration, Meadow Homes seeks to boost academic achievement and increase student motivation. Meadow Homes students receive weekly instruction from arts specialists in visual arts, dance and drama.
involved in various ways at our school including leadership and Link Crew, the program that helps freshman transition to high school. Mount Diablo is home to five small learning communities, each with a career theme. These academies include rigorous academics and career technical education, with a career focus, a committed team of teachers, and active business and post-secondary partnerships. In other news, our sports teams are also doing very this new school year. Girls volleyball has a 2-1 record with great wins against John Swett High School. Football is also
doing well as they have a 1-0 record beating Berean Christian 28-8. Girls’ tennis and cross county teams have been working hard as well and are expecting to have great seasons this year. The year has started off fantastically and the students and faculty are really excited about this new school year as it is sure to be an eventful one. Alberto Ruiz is a senior at Mt. Diablo High where he is student body secretary and a member of the Medical Biotechnology Academy. Send questions and comments to editor@concordpioneer.com.
Academies are thriving at Mount Diablo
Principal, from page 1 High Summer School. “My principal, Ean Ainsworth, made it a most enjoyable experience. One of my best summers ever,” she said. That fall she began as an Ygnacio Valley High vice principal. One of her mentors there was principal Sue Brothers, “who gave me opportunities so that I felt prepared [for this new position].” When the opening at CHS was available she jumped at the chance to apply. With about a month of school under her belt Pfaltzgraff still is positive about her new position. “I love the community here: the parents, teachers, staff and students.” She’s spending a great deal of time now meeting with various people in her new school community. At 1,560, CHS’s student population is only 200 smaller than Wartburg College in Iowa where Pfaltzgraff earned her bachelors in mathematics and math education. She also played basketball and softball. As a child, Pfaltzgraff and her two siblings moved six times due to her dad’s job. She was born in Iowa and lived in three other states before she attended the same high school for her final three years. Following her college graduation she moved to California to “get out of the snow
It’s a new school year and Mount Diablo High School is off to a great s t a r t . Mount DiaAlberto Ruiz blo High MDHS School is CORRESPONDENT home to the Red Devils and has been so for over 100 years as it reigns as the oldest school in the Mount Diablo Unified School District. The 2014-2015 school year has been successful thus far and students have started strong. Many students are
At the same time, classroom teachers receive professional development. The school is creating a strategic plan to ensure that students receive rigorous, relevant and effective instruction that integrates the arts into each school day. Additionally, the grant encourages partnerships with the local art community, bringing visiting artists to the school. The school is also looking for support from local businesses. If you are a business interested in helping Meadow Homes fund its arts integration plan, contact the school at 925-685-8760.
RIANE PFALTZGRAFF CONCORD HIGH PRINCIPAL
The challenges for the principal include the implementation of Common Core State Standards during this pilot year. With assistance from MDUSD Measure C funds every CHS classroom has a new teacher’s computer, projector and wireless connectivity. She had been on campus with her students only five days when the Minutemen hosted their first home football game. As Pfaltzgraff walked to the stadium two groups of students shouted her name and motioned for her to join them. She even saw some former YVHS students who were there to watch the game and greeted her warmly. The new principal knew she wanted to be a teacher when she was 6-years-old and says, “I landed exactly where I should. I love my job.” And her smile says it all.
Mount D i a b l o H i g h School is off to a great start for the 2014 – 2015 school year. All five of our academies have Liane welcomed Cismowski MDHS PRINCIPAL w o n d e r f u l new and returning students and teachers. All of our academies have spent the summer planning engaging, rigorous and relevant learning, including project-based learning, for their students. It is my joy and privilege to be the principal at Mount Diablo to walk the campus daily
with our 1,400 scholars who are going to class on time prepared for a brand new year of learning. Built in 1901, Mount Diablo High School is the oldest high school in Concord. Generations of families have graduated from our school in the 20th and 21st centuries. In an effort to better serve our students and community, Mount Diablo High School has adopted a wall-to-wall academy structure. All of our students are members of one of five academies: ACME (Architecture, Construction, Manufacturing, and Engineering), DSA (Digital Safari Academy), IHTA (International Hospitality and Tourism Academy), MBTA (Medical BioTechnical Acad-
emy), and World Academy for students new to the United States. Each academy focuses on a highly-qualified subject area with CTE (Career Technical Education) teachers and an administrator devoted to that academy. This will be the second year of the wall-to-wall structure and we are already seeing amazing results. In the coming months, I look forward to highlighting much of the great work our teachers, students and staff are doing to ensure we graduate students prepared for college, career, and civic responsibility. Send comments and questions to editor@concordpioneer.com
Pine Hollow Despite heat, school is cool this year Back-toschool and the end of summer. It’s back to homework and due dates. No more stayRayna Stanziano ing up or PINE HOLLOW sleeping in CORRESPONDENT late. It means following the dress code, being on time and missing as little class time as possible. However, back-to-school also means reuniting with
friends and old teachers. And at Pine Hollow, it means remembering your place in the Mustang family. This year, students and staff alike are lucky that back-to-school also signifies cool classrooms. Air conditioning was installed over summer vacation just in time for Pine Hollow’s 50th anniversary. No more hot, smelly classrooms! MSUSD students return to school before the autumnal equinox. Summer’s sweltering heat is a burden until fall brings cooler weather,
and with temperature control in classrooms Pine Hollow is prepared to fight the heat. I have already noticed a difference in my ability to focus during my later afternoon classes, when in years past, the room temperatures prohibited proper brain function! Welcome back, Mustangs! Rayna Stanziano is in the eighth grade at Pine Hollow. She has a passion for writing and loves English and swimming. She lives in Concord. Send comments to editor@concordpioneer.com
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Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
October 2014
CALENDAR PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR COMMUNITY CALENDAR EVENTS BY 5 P.M. OCT. 15 FOR THE NOV. ISSUE. ITEMS MUST BE SUBMITTED BY EMAIL TO calendar@concordpioneer.com
IN CLAYTON Saturdays thru Oct. 25, except Oct.4 Farmers’ Market Music: Sept. 27, Tony DeGrassi. Oct. 11, Scott Pullman. 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. Diablo Street between Main and Center streets, downtown Clayton. pcfma.com/clayton.
Oct. 3 - 5 Oktoberfest Sponsored by the Clayton Business and Community Association. Music by The Internationals, biergarten, food, arts and crafts, carnival. 6 – 10 p.m. Friday, carnival only. 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. Saturday. 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. Sunday. Downtown. Free admission. claytonoktoberfest.com.
Oct. 10 – 12, 16 – 18 “A Trip Down Broadway” Musical revue. Endeavor Hall, 6008 Center St., Clayton. $16-$22. claytontheatrecompany.com.
IN CONCORD Tuesdays Farmers’ Market
Oct. 3 It’s the Great Pumpkimprov! Presented by Trapped in a Rumor Improv. 7:45 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $12-$15. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.
Oct. 3, 5 “James and the Giant Peach”
Oct. 3 Hawaiian Fusion 2014
Oct. 4 Street Corner Renaissance
Taste of Hawaii, including authentic Hawaiian buffet dinner and concert. Proceeds go towards Concord Senior Center scholarship and special events. 4:30 – 9:30 p.m. Centre Concord, 5298 Clayton Road, Concord. $50. cityofconcord.org/hawaiianfusion.
This quintet breathes new life into doo-wop music. 8 p.m. El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $25-$27. elcampaniltheatre.com.
Oct. 5 Enchantment Season opener by Diablo Symphony Orchestra. 2 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $12-$28. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.
Oct. 11 Comedy Maureen Langan, featuring Mike Capozolla and hosted by Priya Prasad. 8 p.m. California Theatre, 351 Railroad Ave., Pittsburg. $17$20. pittsburgcaliforniatheatre.com. 427-1611.
Thursdays thru Oct. 23 Farmers’ Market
Oct. 11 Heritage Day
3rd Sundays Antique Faire Antiques, collectibles, handmade arts and crafts. 9 – 4 p.m. Todos Santos Plaza, downtown Concord. Free admission. concordantiquefaire.com. The Concord Pavilion is located at 2000 Kirker Pass Road, Concord. theconcordpavilion.com. Concert schedule: Oct. 1, Kings of Leon, Young the Giant and Kongos, 7 p.m. Oct. 17, Luke Bryan, Lee Brice and Cole Swindell, 7 p.m.
Oct. 12 Taste of Monument A festival of fun and international foods. Discover the community and many businesses in the area. 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Erickson Road off of Monument Boulevard, Concord. See Monument Businesses on Facebook.
Oct. 17 - 31 Scarecrow Contest Visit downtown Concord and vote for your favorite scarecrow at participating businesses. Theme: Superhero. Sponsored by the Todos Santos Business Association. Todos Santos Plaza, downtown Concord. cityofconcord.org.
Oct. 31 Trick or Treat Trick or treat around the plaza and see the Scarecrow Contest winner. Look for orange and black balloons in front of participating businesses. Sponsored by the Todos Santos Business Association. 3 – 5 p.m. Todos Santos Plaza, downtown Concord. cityofconcord.org.
ON THE MOUNTAIN
Experience the natural, historical and archaeological aspects of Marsh Creek State Park and the John Marsh Stone House. Tours, food and entertainment, presentations. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Free. johnmarshhouse.com.
Oct. 11 – 12 “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” Musical comedy celebrating the mania of competition as six misfits compete for the spelling bee. El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $13-$15. elcampaniltheatre.com.
Oct. 17 Guitar Series Adam Levin performs. 7:15 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $25. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.
Oct. 17 – 18 “Legend of Banbury Cross” Presented by Fantasy Forum Actors Ensemble. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $14. lesherartscenter.org. 9437469.
Solo autobiographical musical about a crisis that strikes a male couple performed by Robin Taylor. Mt. Diablo Unitarian Universalist Church, 55 Eckley Lane, Walnut Creek. Suggested $10 donation. Contact Robin for more information at 837-6560.
Oct. 18 Digging for Your Roots
Energetic evening of comedy and craziness by Ready or Not Improv. Rated PG-13. 8:15 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $15. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.
Sept. 26 – 27 Brian Copeland Sept. 26: Not a Genuine Black Man. Sept. 27: The Waiting Period. 8:15 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $20-$35 per show or $55 for both; code word: genuine. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.
Sept. 27 Contra Costa Chamber Orchestra Performs masterpieces from past and present. 7:30 p.m. El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $7-$15. elcampaniltheatre.com.
Sept. 27 Theatrical Hula Performed by the Na Akua Wahine. 2 and 8 p.m. California Theatre, 351 Railroad Ave., Pittsburg. $25. pittsburgcaliforniatheatre.com. 427-1611.
Sept. 28 Contra Costa Chamber Orchestra
Oct. 19 Tribute to the Music of John Denver Starring Jim Curry. 3 p.m. El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $25-$27. elcampaniltheatre.com.
Musical theatre tribute to The Beatles. 7:30 p.m. California Theatre, 351 Railroad Ave., Pittsburg. $25-$35. pittsburgcaliforniatheatre.com. 427-1611.
Oct. 22 Modern-Day Slavery Panel discussion and open forum about what is modern-day slavery, how it does exist in Contra Costa County and what is being done to stop it. Sponsored by Soroptimist International of Diablo Vista. 6 p.m. Queen of All Saints Church Hall, 2390 Grant St., Concord. Free. For more information, call 324-9595 or go to sidiablovista.org.
Oct. 23 – Nov. 9 “Wunderworld” The story of 80-year-old Alice in Wonderland drawn back down the rabbit hole. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $20-$33. centerrep.org.
Oct. 24 – Nov. 2 “Forever Plaid” Deliciously goofy revue of four singers miraculously revived for the posthumous chance to perform in the show that never was. Brentwood Theater Company at Cue Live, 1835 Colfax St., Concord. thebrentwoodtheater.org. 513-3863.
Oct. 24 – Nov. 22 “Deathtrap”
Oct. 25 An Afternoon of Music Annual fundraiser benefiting charities and scholarships supported by the Clayton Valley Woman’s Club. Performance by the Swingin’ Blue Stars; appetizers and desserts. 3:30 – 6:30 p.m. Diamond Terrace, 6401 Center St., Clayton. $20. Contact Aleta Huck for tickets at 672-9448. claytonvalleywomansclub.org.
Oct. 26 Kenn Adams Adventure Theatre A zany, interactive show for kids. Benefits church’s outreach programs. 3 p.m. St. John’s Episcopal Church, 5555 Clayton Road, Clayton. $15 adults; $5 for ages 12 and under. brownpapertickets.com. 672-8717.
The Clayton Library is at 6125 Clayton Road. Programs are free unless otherwise noted. claytonlibrary.org or 673-0659.
Tuesdays thru Nov. 18 Patty Cakes
Story time for 3- to 5-year-olds. Child may attend without caregiver. 11 a.m.
Sept. 27 SAT/ACT Practice Test For high school students. Registration required. 10 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Oct. 1 – Nov. 3 Clayton Reads Featuring “The Book Thief” by Markus Zusak. Pick up a free copy at the library while supplies last. Return or give it to a friend when done. Flier available with related programs and discussions.
Oct. 22 Discussion Join other readers to share thoughts about the book. 7 p.m.
Oct. 13 Clayton Library Book Club
Oct. 17 – 19 Used Book Sale Most books $1. Most children’s books $.50. Fri. 4 – 7 p.m. members preview. Sat. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Sun. 12 – 4 p.m. with books at half price. 2 – 4 p.m. special $3/bag; bag provided.
Oct. 20 Write Page-Turning Suspense Young writers’ interactive workshop led by author Liz KoehlerPentacoff. Grades 6 – 12. Registration required. 4 p.m. The Concord Library is at 2900 Salvio St. Programs are free unless otherwise noted. ccclib.org or 646-5455.
Oct. 7 California Conservation Corps Informational session about this program linking young people with California’s natural resources. For men and women ages 18 – 25 and Veterans up to age 29. 4 p.m.
Oct. 9 Social and Emotional Development An evening of parent education and discussion about the importance of social and emotional development for parent and child. 6:30 p.m.
GOVERNMENT
A comedic thriller. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $33-$58. centerrep.org.
Sept. 28 Crescendo – Brunch with the Boys
Oct. 25 House of Floyd
San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus season preview and fundraiser. 12 p.m. Four Seasons Hotel, 757 Market St., San Francisco. $150 and up. sfgmc.org.
San Francisco’s immersive Pink Floyd tribute band. 8 p.m. El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $25-$27. elcampaniltheatre.com.
Gripping tale about the curse of the Baskerville family and the fiendish hound which stalks its members. California Theatre, 351 Railroad Ave., Pittsburg. $10-$25. pittsburgcaliforniatheatre.com. 427-1611.
Dinner, entertainment, auction, dessert raffle, prizes. Benefits projects of the Soroptimist International of Diablo Vista. 6 p.m. Back Forty Texas BBQ, 100 Coggins Drive, Pleasant Hill. $50. Call Jan Townsend at 827-1050 by Oct. 13 for tickets. sidiablovista.org.
Sunny Solomon leads the discussion of “The Thirteenth Tale” by Diane Setterfield. Open to anyone who wants to join. 7 p.m.
Oct. 21 In My Life
Performs masterpieces from past and present. 2 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $10-$30. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.
Oct. 2 – 5 “The Hound of Baskervilles”
Oct. 18 Two-Bit Auction and Dinner
Thursdays thru Nov. 20 Picture Book Time
Continuous presentation and live tarantula with Michael Marchiano. 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Summit Visitor Museum.
A 1960s doo-wop musical. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $37-$66. centerrep.org.
Dinner and auction with entertainment by CVCHS instrumental music students. Proceeds benefit the instrumental music program. 6:30 p.m. Shadelands Art Center, 111 N. Wiget Lane, Walnut Creek. $30 each or $225 for a table of eight. For more information and to buy tickets, go to claytonbands.org.
A musical theatre classic; satire done with the fondest affection. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $12-$44$54. ccmt.org.
Oct. 18 Flying Train Wreck
Thru Oct. 5 “Life Could Be A Dream”
Oct. 11 Harvest Moon
Story time for babies to 3-year-olds. Child attends with caregiver. 11 a.m.
Oct. 19 Tarantulas
New work written by local playwright/actor/director Edwin Peabody based on works by Edgar Allan Poe. Onstage Theatre at the Campbell Theatre, 636 Ward St., Martinez. 518-3277.
Dinner, live music, auction. Proceeds benefit Joe Gamez’s “My Liver Hates Me” fund. 5 – 10 p.m. 1945 Jameson Court, Concord. $50. Contact Chad Olson at colson013@gmail.com to buy tickets or go to youcaring.com/joegamez to donate.
Oct. 17 – Nov. 15 “Bye Bye Birdie”
Mount Diablo Interpretive Association programs listed are free with the exception of park entrance fee. Go to mdia.org and click on Events Calendar for more information.
Thru Oct. 5 “A Familiar Visage”
Oct. 11 Backyard BBQ
AT THE LIBRARY
Oct. 17 – 19 “Are You Married?”
Family history seminar with keynote speaker Janet Brigham. 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Concord California Family History Center, 3700 Concord Blvd., Concord. $10 -$25 for materials. For more information, contact Jackie Hein at 827-4729.
EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT
New, hilarious, original story presented mystery dinner theatre style. Benefits church’s music ministry and theatre’s orchestra. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Church of the Good Shepherd, Father Dabovich Hall, 3200 Harbor St., Pittsburg. $30. pittsburgcommunitytheatre.org.
A magical journey of fantasy and adventure. El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $8-$12. elcampaniltheatre.com.
Tuesdays year round. Music: Sept. 30, Insteel. Oct. 7, Apryll Gilbert. Oct. 14, Kevin Kooyumjian. 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Todos Santos Plaza, downtown Concord. cityofconcord.org.
Music: Oct. 9, Scott Pullman. Oct. 16, Paul Anderson. 4 – 8 p.m. Todos Santos Plaza, downtown Concord. cityofconcord.org.
Sept. 26 “CLUE-DUNNIT? – The Musical”
1st, 2nd and 4th Tuesdays Concord City Council 6:30 p.m., Council Chamber, Concord Civic Center, 1950 Parkside Dr. cityofconcord.org.
1st and 3rd Wednesdays Concord Planning Commission 7 p.m., Council Chamber, Concord Civic Center, 1950 Parkside Dr. cityofconcord.org.
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.
Meeting dates and times for local clubs and organizations are listed at concordpioneer.com. Click on ‘Links’
October 2014
Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
Page 17
Concord Pavilion back on top
Renovations, more concerts bring fans back to local venue JAY BEDECARRÉ Concord Pioneer
When Live Nation was awarded a 10-year contract to continue operating the Concord Pavilion late last year there were some raised eyebrows from people who had noticed the dramatic drop-off in concert offerings at the outdoor amphitheater on Kirker Pass Road in recent years under Live Nation’s operation. Now with the first season under the new contract winding down, results look quite good as the number of concerts doubled from last year’s record-low nine to 18 and the city will receive nearly $1 million from the concert promoters, including about $150,000 in overages from the $3 per ticket sold over the
100,000 annual guarantee. Pavilion General Manager Aaron Hawkins was very pleased on many levels when discussing the season with The Pioneer recently. His firm was obligated to make $3.7 million in improvements to the facility by the end of 2016 but spent almost all that money this year for changes that impacted both Pavilion attendees and artists this season and should pay dividends for years to come. The most dramatic change was the removal of all the permanent seats in the inner circle directly in front of the Pavilion stage. They were taken out to facilitate flexible seating arrangements, including having a general admission pit for some shows, which some artists prefer. The first of those was at the sold-out (12,881 tickets) Fall Out Boy concert last month and then again for the Oct. 17 Luke Bryan show, which figures to be the year’s biggest turnout.
The general admission format allows for nearly 500 additional tickets to be sold. For the majority of concerts, comfortable reserved seats fill the inner circle area. The third sellout this year was for a KBLX Hot Summer nights show over the Labor Day weekend. “The artists have been extremely happy,” Hawkins said. Not only was the flexible seating a hit but improvements to the dressing rooms and the eating and rest areas for artists’ staff and crew were all met with thumbs up. “Our bookers have already been approached by artists wanting to come back next year.” Concord Director of Community and Recreation Services Joan Carrico said the city has been “very pleased” with the season. Both Carrico and Hawkins acknowledged some “early hiccups” with new concession stand operations that saw lines moving too slowly. Those were cor-
rected and Carrico got good feedback on new “high-end food and beverage” offerings. Hawkins also said per capita sales were up as the public responded favorably to the menu and facility upgrades. In addition to concerts the Pavilion hosted the annual Spring Home & Garden Show and seven high school graduations. There’s a pair of concerts this week and then three more before mid-October to wrap up the schedule of 18 concerts. The 19th annual Fall Home & Garden Show is Oct. 24-26. The Australian boy band 5 Seconds of Summer is already on sale for a show next July. Hawkins has been pleased with his staff’s ability to quickly “flip over” the facility from one show to another. The Pavilion’s biggest disappointment this season was the day-of-show cancellation of an Aerosmith concert due to a band member’s illness.
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See Pavilion, page 20
Spectacular views, cooler temps reward Arch Rock hikers SHARON ANDERSON
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Escape the inland heat with a coastal hike to beautiful Arch Rock near Point Reyes. This trail will walk you under canopies of trees, shading ferns and moss dangling from every crevice. Quaint meadows dot the trail where Tule Elk graze with a small year-round babbling creek fed by streams from Mount Wittenberg. At the end of the forest fantastic views unfold as you step into coastal chaparral and scrub with views in every direction: Mount Wittenberg back to the east, sparkling ocean to the West, and shoreline to the north and south. This spectacular vantage hovers over two unspoiled beaches and miles of pristine coastline. This is one of Point Reyes’ most popular trails serving hikers, runners, cyclists and equestrians. Off-season is the best time to go to explore the Arch Rock trail and the 150 miles of hiking trails in Point Reyes. Relaxing on the jagged bluffs is a fantastic place to watch pelicans, shorebirds and harbor seals. It is also a birders paradise with more than 45 percent of North American avian species living in the park. It’s also home to 38 threatened and endangered plant and animal species. Deer graze the meadows daily — both native black-tail deer and an exotic, pure white deer, imported by
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Arch Rock hike near Point Reyes has been described as a hike through paradise. Lush forests give way to dramatic coastal views on this 8-mile hike that begins at the Bear Valley Visitors Center.
ranchers in the 1948. The flora is lush from a moist climate and deep shade that fosters plenty of elk clover, ferns and cream bush, as well as a few huckleberry shrubs. Flowers include bindweed, monkey flower, lizardtail, seaside daisy, foxglove and paintbrush in spring. The Coastal Douglas Fir, which includes Coast Live Oak, Tanoak and California Bay, are prominent trees on this trail. Look in the understory for hazelnuts and thimbleberries in July, but don’t stray too far off trail, or you’ll be “stung” by nettles. Coyote brush, willow, California coffeeberry, honeysuckle, poison oak and a few buckeye off to the sides of the path create beautiful colors and a wonderful aroma.
Bear Valley Trail climbs at an almost imperceptible grade. Starting elevation is 100 feet, peaking at 375 feet. The Arch Rock hike is 8.2 miles and very easy. Before exploring the trail to Arch Rock, a visit to the Visitors’ Center is in order. The center provides an orientation to the park’s roads, trails and general history. It also offers ecological and historical exhibits, including a seismograph, weather station and auditorium for films and educational programs. Start at the Bear Valley Visitor Center in Olema Valley in Marin County. The first 3.2 miles is a wide, maintained route ending at the Glen Trail/Baldy Trail junction, which narrows; bikes are no longer permitted. A
bike rack presents an option for cyclists to continue the course to the sea on foot, following the sign to Arch Rock. Arch Rock can be seen just before reaching the coast (which is not accessible during high tide), but a short rock scramble leads to the southern beach and full arch access. Watch closely and you may even sight some whales! Directions: Take the Richmond/San Rafael Bridge to Sir Francis Drake Blvd. Go all the way north to Highway 1 North in Olema. Go left at Bear Valley Road. Bear Valley Visitors’ Center is on your left. Sharon Anderson is a Clayton resident, hiker and mountain biker who lives for the outdoors. Send comments for Sharon to editor@ConcordPioneer.com
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Page 18
Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
October 2014
PERFORMING ARTS ‘Swingin’ Holiday’ marks Stegge’s finale with Diablo Ballet
CenterREP’s ‘Dream’ brings 60s faves to Lesher stage SH-BOOM! Meet Denny and the Dreamers, a fledging doo-wop singing group preparing to enter the Big Whopper Radio contest with dreams of making it to the big time. Trouble comes in the form of Lois, who arrives to put some polish on the boys. Denny falls in love, Wally falls in line, Eugene falls apart, and the trouble doubles when handsome heartthrob Skip enters, played by Derek Keeling, star of Broadway’s Grease and NBC’s “You’re the One Doo-wop singers Tim Homsley and Derek Keeling have their eyes on the big time in “Life Could Be a Dream,” playing at the Lesher Center through Oct. 5.
See Dream, page 19
Broadway revue kicks off 2014-15 CTC season Photo credit: Tiffany Bertolami-Fong
Swing into the holidays with Diablo Ballet dancers Edward Stegge (left) and Hiromi Yamazaki at the Del Valle Theater on Nov. 14 and 15.
Diablo Ballet’s Edward Stegge will bid farewell to the Diablo Ballet Company after the curtain goes down on the 21st Season performances of “A Swingin’ Holiday,” Nov. 14 and 15. Stegge has been an audience favorite and respected by his fellow company members since joining the company in 2002, says Artistic Director Lauren Jonas. His engaging presence
both on and off the stage has made him a mainstay in the company’s roster, Jonas says. Stegge has also served as Diablo Ballet’s Outreach Assistant, a role he loves and will continue. “I am so honored to have been a part of Diablo Ballet for more than 12 seasons,” says Stegge. “Diablo Ballet is my family.
See Ballet, page 19
Take “A Trip Down Broadway” next month without leaving Clayton in Clayton Theatre Company’s fall production opening Oct. 10. In this musical revue, the heroine travels from Broadway to Chicago to France, stopping at a spelling bee and Avenue Q before returning to Broadway. The show features songs from over 20 Broadway musicals with an original script by CTC directors Roxanne Pardi and LaTonya Watts. A large cast of 25 features
many local performers, some new faces and some returning from CTC’s previous productions of “The Robber Bridegroom” and “The Night of January 16.” “A Trip Down Broadway” runs Oct. 10-12 and Oct. 16-18, at Endeavor Hall, Clayton. A special VIP ticket package includes preferred seating, a drink ticket, a concession ticket, and a cameo walk-on part in the show. Purchase tickets at brownpapertickets.com. For more information go to claytontheatrecompany.com.
Montel Nor, Kyle Wickware, Tevin Whack, Riley Giadone, Brian Vandemark rehearse for ‘A Trip Down Broadway” with directors LaTonya Watts, Santiago Martinez and Roxanne Pardi.
October 2014 Now
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More PERFORMING ARTS
ROBIN TAYLOR
inspired to write this musical when the U.S. Supreme Court struck down California’s Proposition 8 and The Defense of Marriage Act in June, 2013. Realizing that many in the country don’t understand why same sex couples need the protection
of marriage, Taylor said he is sharing the truth about what happened when he and John were plunged into a crisis created by John’s greedy family. With the support of a team of lawyers in two states and the inspiration of a constant flow of music from their CD player, Taylor and John defeated the system that put no value on their 15 year relationship. It’s a tale of tears, tunes, laughs and, finally, triumph.
STARS 2000 teens to present ‘West Side Story’ As it enters its 23rd season, STARS 2000 Teen Theatre Company, the premier youth performing arts company in the East Bay, begins a new venture as an independent performing arts company, having broken off from Diablo Theatre Company this past summer. This month STARS 2000 is holding auditions for the iconic American musical, “West Side Story.” Called the world’s greatest love story, the musical follows Tony and Maria, two idealistic lovers from warring new York street gangs. Their struggle to survive in a world of hate, violence and prejudice remains one of the most relevant musical dramas of the past 50 years. The musical offerings include “Maria,” “Somewhere” and “America.” Auditions for “West Side Story” will go through Sept. 30 with performances in January. For an audition appointment, email Kamrin at dkstars2000@yahoo.com.
leaving his songwriter and agent Albert in a jam. But Albert’s secretary and sweetheart Rosie comes up with a plan: Conrad will perform a new hit, “One Last Kiss,” on the Ed Sullivan Show before he ships off to basic training. Inspired by Elvis Presley and the stir his draft notice caused in 1957, this satirical look at Americana was nominated for seven Tony Awards, winning four, including Best Musical. It also marked the first Broadway show for the legendary Dick Van Dyke in the lead role, which also led to his first
CYNTHIA GREGORY
FOR
THE
BOOKS
“Dream” plays Wed-Sun at the Lesher Center, 1601
He believes that if he does well in clinical trials, he could be assigned to the Flavorings Division, or even the mecca of the commercial food industry: Breakfast Cereals. Young Leveraux is oriented to the company by a bland man from Development of Substitute Materials and ushered into his new career. He is delivered to the lab, where his assignment is to test the effects of a new chemicallycreated sweetener, Sweetness #9, on lab rats. But, over time Leveraux observes his rats becoming increasingly lethargic, dysfunctional, anti-social even. They grow fat and display symptoms of depression. The chimpanzees in the next lab, which are also being fed massive quantities of the chemically enhanced sweetener, are showing signs of hypersensitivity, of rage followed by lethargy. They too, begin to become bloated and irritable and are calmed only by a steady diet of television programming. When Leveraux mentions his concerns about the effects of Sweetness #9, he’s told by his lab partner to keep quiet. When suddenly the lab cages are filled with svelte, lively rats, and chimpanzees who are lithe and able to move like dancers, he suspects foul play in order to secure fast-track FDA approval for Sweetness #9. When he takes his suspicions to the boys upstairs, he’s fired.
Tickets are on sale now at the Lesher Center for the Arts Ticket Office, 1601 Civic Drive in Walnut Creek, or by calling 925943-SHOW (943-7469), or you can purchase tickets online at www.lesherArtscenter.org.
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Scriabin and accompanied by Bay Area concert pianist Roy Bogas. All performances are in the newly renovated Del Valle Theatre, 1963 Tice Valley Blvd., Walnut Creek. Purchase tickets online at www.LesherArtsCenter.org or by calling 925-9437469.
Dream, from page 18 That I Want!” to send things spinning. The ‘60s hits say it all: “Fools Fall in Love,” “Tears On My Pillow,” “Runaround Sue,” “Earth Angel,” “Stay.”
OFF
film, reprising his Tony-winning performance. Featuring such classic songs as “Put on a Happy Face,” “A Lot of Livin’ To Do,” “Baby Talk To Me” and “Spanish Rose,” this musical treat – suitable for the whole family – features an awardwinning score and exciting dance numbers.
The show will be performed at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 17 and 18 and 3 p.m. Oct. 19 at the church, 55 Eckley Ln., Walnut Creek. A suggested donation of $10 includes refreshments and a substantial contribution to benefit the organization “Marriage Equality, USA.”
Ballet, from page 18 “A Swingin’ Holiday,” by Broadway choreographer Sean Kelly, is set to the music of Duke Ellington, Glenn Miller and includes jazzy renditions of Tchaikovsky’s “The Nutcracker Suite.” The performance also features “Tolstoy’s Waltz,” a Diablo Ballet Premiere, set to the music of Leo Tolstoy, George Balanchine and Julian
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David Leveraux has a dark secret in his past. As a flavor chemist his world is bound by the clean logic of science, of method, of predictability. However calm the surface of his life, however, he lives bathed in a low current of fear that if his secret ever got out, he would lose the respect of his wife, the love of his daughter, the trust of his son, the veneration of colleagues. “Sweetness #9” by Stephan Eirik Clark (Little, Brown and Company; August, 2014) begins in 1973, as Leveraux, a young chemist, begins a promising career at industrial giant Goldstein, Olivetti, and Dark (GOD). It is the third act of the 20th century, the Cold War is alive and well, the Berlin Wall is keeping the communists separated from the rest of Europe, and chemistry is the express train to a modern world. TV dinners and the first microwave oven have been introduced to America, and convenience food en masse is just around the corner. Leveraux is hired on at Goldstein, Olivetti, and Dark on the strength of his thesis, The Biophysics of Brie.
Say hello to ‘Bye Bye Birdie’ Contra Costa Musical Theatre (CCMT) will present the musical “Bye Bye Birdie” at Walnut Creek’s Lesher Center for the Arts Oct. 17 through Nov. 15, 2014. Set in 1958, rock-n-roll heartthrob Conrad Birdie has been drafted into the army,
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‘Married’ musical examines same-sex couple’s struggle The Mt. Diablo Unitarian Universalist Church in Walnut Creek is presenting a thoughtful new musical about the struggles of a samesex couple in “Are You Married? A Musical Outing.” The play is a solo autobiographical musical about a crisis that strikes a male couple when one falls ill and they are victimized by the disabled partner’s family. After months of battling with blackmailing and violent relatives, a corrupt lawyer, hateful hospital administrators and negligent doctors, the pair emerge victorious by harnessing the power of love, humor and music. All 32 characters and 10 songs are performed by Robin Taylor, who lived this journey with his partner, John. Taylor said he was
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Civic Drive, Walnut Creek through Oct. 5. For performance times and ticket information, go to www.CenterREP.org’ call 925.943.SHOW (7469). Tickets are available at the Lesher Center Box Office, Barnes & Noble in Walnut Creek and the Walnut Creek Library.
WILL CLANEY TECH TALK How many cups of coffee does it take to boot your computer? Is your computer slow, so slow in fact you’ve nearly quit using it? So slow it drives you crazy while it tries to boot up or launch a program or two? Quit living in the past and upgrade to the ultimate speed freak. What am I talking about? Well, did you know the slowest part of your computer is the hard drive? It is slow because it is mechanical. In the computer Biz a mechanical device is not as good as an electronic device. Mechanical devices, like your hard drive, can only run at preset speeds.
For example, your hard drive turns at between 4,000 and 7,000 revolutions per minute. Thousands of RPM may sound fast, until you compare to the speed of light. A solid state device runs at (near) light speed. One might ask, “What difference does it make?” Well, for one thing programs can take minutes to load and that is lost time each day. That’s what happens when your computer boots up. It loads programs from the mechanical hard drive then runs them. The loading part is the slowest part. Running the program once it is loaded depends upon other features of your computer, like CPU and RAM. If you have a smartphone the boot time is fast, because it is all solid state, meaning everything is electronic and not mechanical and that translates to fast. So, if you want to go fast, boot fast and run fast, you need solid state. SSD is the terminology for fast. Solid State Drives (SSD) are all electronic devices and they replace or run along
Despite an interruption in the upward trajectory of his career, Leveraux manages to put his unquiet past to rest. He has a family, takes a job at FlavAmerica, and lives the American Dream. But, dear reader, you know that dream is illusive. Leveraux has more to lose than ever when his past comes back to haunt him. In 1998, 25 years after his stint with Goldstein, Olivetti, and Dark, his teenage daughter becomes a militant vegan. His son speaks only in verbs. His wife is just one diet soda away from a nervous breakdown, and after 25 years of silence, a secret long buried becomes his undoing. In his debut novel, “Sweetness #9,” Clark toys with the pillars upon which men (and women) in a modern world build their lives. Hard work. Family. Consumerism. It is a fun, funny, delicious ride! Cynthia Gregory is a North Bay nonprofit leader, writer of short fiction, and author of a blog. Email comments and questions to Editor@ConcordPioneer.com
with your existing mechanical hard drive to make data move faster and therefore, make your computer much more responsive and quick. SSD is not expensive and a is worthy upgrade to most computers because boot times are reduced from minutes to seconds and running programs is faster, nearly instant. Prices range from under $100 for the basic models to more than $500 for extreme series. The one recommended most by local professionals run about $300 fully installed and set to go. So, if you want to go crazy fast, boot up before the coffee is ready, or just start enjoying your desktop or laptop again, jump into new technology and add an SSD device to your computer and become the ultimate speed freak.
William Claney is a professional computer consultant and technical writer. Will is the CEO of ComputersUSA!. Send comments to Editor@ConcordPioneer.com
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Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
BUSINESS
Home-sale contingencies are tricky
Chamber partnerships make things happen
MARILYN FOWLER
CONCORD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE When the Concord Chamber of Commerce recently cut the ribbon officially honoring the chamber opening of Home Décor Learning Center, it marked the second anniversary of its highly successful partnership with Opportunity Fund, the largest nonprofit micro-lending organization in California. With the help of Chevron, the Concord Chamber offers memberships for
October 2014
Opportunity Fund’s small business clients located in Concord. Home Décor Learning Center is the Bay Area’s first learning center dedicated to teaching home décor and upholstery and was established in 2012 by Rachel Myers. Home Décor Learning Center is located at 2041 Commerce Ave., Concord. To learn more about Home Décor Learning Center, visit www.homedecorlc.com. Chevron supports the business communities and works with partners to make social investments in programs that promote self-sufficiency, job growth and economic development. To learn more about Chevron’s community work, please visit chevron.com/corporateresponsibility/community. For information on the Concord Chamber of Commerce, visit concordchamber.com.
gency. Two weeks to 30 days are common.
WHAT
IS A HOME SALE CONTINGENT OFFER?
LYNNE FRENCH
REAL ANSWERS Q. There is no way I can buy another property without selling my current one. Are the sellers accepting offers contingent on the sale of a buyer’s property? A. It seems that the home sales market is slowing down lately. If it slows down enough for properties to stay on the market a long time a seller might consider an offer contingent on you selling your home. Another way to look at a contingency is for you to put your home on the market contingent on you finding a home of your choice before you would accept an offer. Your buyer would have to wait until you find a house. There should be a deadline for you to find a house on this type of contin-
It is an offer you make on a property that is contingent on you selling your home. You, the buyer, will include a contingency form stating that if your home sells you will buy their home as long as the escrow on your home closes. A seller’s agent will look at your home to see how saleable it is. Is it priced right for the condition and location it is in? If your home doesn’t sell, your good faith deposit will be returned. Considering these things most sellers would prefer a non-contingent offer. It’s less risky. To construct an attractive contingent offer, you probably won’t be able to negotiate the price much. In the contingency form you also would give the sellers an escape or release clause. These are usually 72 hours but can be more or less. That means that the seller will keep their home on the market after they accept your offer and if they get another offer that they want to accept, they will send you a 72-hour notice to perform. If you are able to qualify to buy their house without sell-
ing yours, you must show them the proof of funds. Maybe an offer will come in within the 72 hours and you can remove the home-sale contingency. In this case make sure that it is still contingent on your house transaction closing. This should be agreed upon when you first write the offer. If your offer is contingent on the close of your home, make sure you don’t accept an offer that is contingent upon another house selling. On the other hand, if a buyer of your home accepts a contingency from you for you to find a replacement proper-
The Chamber of Commerce and Chevron partnership creates the Opportunity Fund, now in its second year. This year’s grant went to the Home Decor Learning Center on Commerce Avenue.
...more ribbon cuttings
Big changes are happening at the Willows, not the least of which is a completely remodeled UFC Gym (left). Also new to town is Popeye’s and AM PM on Clayton Road.
TODOS SANTOS BUSINESS ASSOCIATION SPOTLIGHT
ON DOWNTOWN
Remember the Pajama Factory? Well, they’re back…sort of. Jamie and Dana Finegold started out making pajamas 17 years ago. Today, the company is known as JDFine and produces the TART Collections, a line of contemporary womens’ apparel. The collection is a favorite of celebrities and is sold at Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus and specialty boutiques. The TART Outlet on Willow Pass Road is JDFine’s only brick and mortar store and carries TART’s “one-of-a-kind” items, samples and seasonal inventory at 50 to 70 percent off retail. Visit the TART Collections Outlet at 2304 Willow Pass Road, across from La Piñata. Follow them on Facebook TARTCollectionsOutlet or visit http://www.tartcollections.com/outlet
10th Annual TSBA Downtown Concord Halloween Scarecrow Contest Bring the kids downtown on Oct. 31 from 3-5 p.m to Trick or Treat the merchants and vote for the best “Zombie” scarecrow in town. Look for the orange and black balloons in participating businesses. For more information, go to concordtsba.org
COMMUNITY IS HER BUSINESS Barajas, too, is no stranger to hard work. She comes from a big family with five brothers, and when they arrived in Concord, they started a family business with one food truck. With support from the city, they opened a market, a restaurant and added three food trucks. She currently owns Los
Rancheros Supermarket and Tacqueria She was honored for her help coordinating the resource-rich annual Dia Del Nino (Day of the Child) event for area families. And both Barajas and Cruz are instructors with Monument Impact’s Healthy Matters classes — as part of its Healthy Eating and Active Living Program — teaching families how to prepare nutritious meals for less than $10. Both women have passed their sense of giving back to community on to the next generation. Barajas’ 16-yearold daughter, Alondra, is tutoring fourth-graders at the Monument Crisis Center. Also recognized at the breakfast for their contributions to the Monument community were Concord Councilman Dan Helix, the Hoffman Family and the Community Youth Center. Helix received the Michael Chavez Leadership Award for his decades of support to the people of the Monument community. For years he has tutored high school students preparing to take the SAT exams. The Community Youth Center, championed by the Ken Hoffman Family, has run youth athletic programs on a shoestring budget. The center serves more than 1,700 kids, 600 of who live in or attend school in the Monument community.
A MAJOR IMPACT Established in 2001 and having navigated several mission evolutions, including a merger with the Michael Chavez Center, Monument Impact is a relatively young nonprofit. As a vibrant 15year-old agency, it is moving into adolescence with grownup ideas about its mission and purpose. “We are communityfocused to provide support for economic development, healthy living, and civic engagement to make our community better,” says executive director Mike Van Hofwegen. “We work with
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 672878 7or stop in at 6200 Center St., Clayton.
Pavilion, from page 17 All of the capital improvements were completed in a condensed period before the season except for the redesigned entrance area around the box office. The original design included cloth “sails” that proved too costly and presented construction challenges. Hawkins expects the revised design to be approved soon and completed right after the
Monument, from page 1 alone until a Welcome Home outreach worker began visiting her. She found support and encouragement from the group and from there, began to reach out. She joined a Community Listening Group and would walk through the community just to ask people how they were doing. Cruz took classes at Monument Impact, and is now a key promotora (a lay Hispanic/Latino community member who receive specialized training to provide basic health education in the community, although they are not professional healthcare workers). Among her accomplishments are organizing Zumba classes and working with PTAs and elementary schools in the area to create a “walking school bus” for area elementary school students. Cruz’s efforts are typically grassroots; she is no longer reluctant to knock on doors and organize small listening groups to offer support and to glean the community’s needs — and to then help to facilitate that. She has brought health practitioners from La Clinica to her apartment complex, offering information about breast and prostate cancer, as part of a group that meets to support each other’s weight loss. She describes her work as a “solution-based approach,” regarding herself as a liaison between the residents and the social services that are available to them. Cruz is also one of nine residents who are each facilitating one of five pilot mental health groups through Monument Impact, offering a supportive fear and stress-reduction techniques.
ty for a period of time you might have to negotiate a price that favors the buyers because of the uncertainty for them to be able to buy your property. These type of home purchases should include much guidance from your realtor and lender. But they can be done.
season ends. Carrico also reports that the new pre-sale option for Concord residents was a success. The city began helping with notification of the sales since often the special on-sale date isn’t known until less than a week in advance. The program allows local citizens to buy prime tickets at no service charge.
‘Making a Difference Award’ recipient Lorena Cruz.
city and county officials as well as business leaders and local residents to help foster the next generation of community leaders.” Like Cruz and Barajas, more than half of the people living in the Monument community identify themselves as Latino, and more than 60 percent of those are immigrants. Beyond economic, language and cultural barriers experienced in the burgeoning community, fewer than half of adults have a high school education. Youngsters in the area’s three elementary schools are 92 percent children of color.
VOLUNTEERS
MAKE IT HAPPEN
By leveraging collaborative relationships with friends in the Monument neighborhoods, a small staff, and a corps of 600 volunteers, Monument Impact provides Spanish and English-language classes that help people succeed. The agency’s day labor program provides jobs and supports professional growth by offering vocational ESL classes, trade skills workshops, and a safe place to make job connections at fair wages. Leadership development classes help to improve economic prospects for individuals and families, helping to move them from low- to moderate-income. The healthy community program offers cooking classes and fitness training including Zumba classes to help people learn to make healthy choices for themselves and their families. Because low-income families are most at-risk for chronic conditions like diabetes, asthma and hypertension, education and prevention are emphasized to help families get and stay healthy.
The idea behind all classes is that when first- or secondgeneration immigrants are given the tools for success, families thrive, and the fabric of the community becomes stronger. With a full time staff of fewer than 20 employees, Monument Impact relies heavily on volunteers and civic leaders to deliver classes, trainings and support groups to more than 8,000 people accessing the services they offer. “We do a good job of not just connecting the dots,” Van Hofwegen says, “but we do it in the best possible way. What you do in one area impacts people in so many others.” He says that work they do is so successful “because it’s collaborative. We work with our public officials, other community nonprofits and community-based organizations, schools, businesses, and community leaders toward a shared vision of engagement and empowerment.” By working effectively with all available resources, Van Hofwegen believes that people will become more successful and invest in their communities. “Together,” he said, “families are healthier and our community is stronger.” Monument Impact is a 501 (c)3 nonprofit corporation. It has an operating budget of $1.1 million and is funded through city and county contracts, local, regional, and corporate grants, program fees, and donations. Cynthia Gregory is a North Bay nonprofit leader, writer of short fiction, and author of a blog. Email comments and questions to Editor@ConcordPioneer.com
October 2014
Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
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Citrus plants need late-summer love NICOLE HACKETT
GARDEN GIRL Concord’s citrus shrubs and trees are in need some tending this month. Citrus plants (especially installations less than five years old) can be suffering from yellowish leaves, erratic fruit\flower drop and pest damage during these last days of summer. It is time to help your citrus shrubs and trees by fertilizing to encourage greener leaves and aid in the maturing and sweetening of young fruit. Summer stress can take its toll on citrus. Long days of hot temperatures and drying winds combined with water rationing can lead to citrus displaying curling, pale leaves that are desperate for nutrients to replace those that evaporated out this season.
One must evaluate the condition of their citrus before they fertilize. How yellow or green are the leaves? When was the last time you fertilized? Is there any fruit forming? Citrus that has green leaves and developing fruit should be fertilized with a formula to encourage large, juicy, sweet fruit. Look for
formulas that have lower nitrogen than phosphorus and potassium. Ideal formulas are 3-20-20 or 2-10-10 if choosing a water-soluble fertilizer and 0-10-10 if using a granular fertilizer. How you irrigate your citrus will determine the type and application of fertilizer you use. Those that water with a drip system will need to fertilize
Sunburn can leave yellow or brown leathery spots on the fruit and leaves, likely on the south and west sides of the tree. Too much heat can cause leaves to curl.
with a water-soluble fertilizer. Folks that irrigate with sprinklers have the luxury of using a granular fertilizer. Citrus that has yellowing leaves should be fertilized. Use a fertilizer formula that reads 7-3-3 or 8-4-4. The first number in both of these formulas represents nitrogen. This amount of nitrogen hopefully won’t initiate fruit drop. If you have yellow leaves on your citrus and you have fertilized within the past month, you should consider applying a dose of iron. Chelated Iron is a great choice to use for fast greening of leaves. You can apply it directly to the leaves as a spray, or water it in. Follow the directions on the label. Let’s say your citrus looks awful. The leaves are yellow, curled and your shrub or tree shows no signs of any fruit. If this is the case, fertilize with a dose of multi-purpose fertilizer. Look for a 16-16-16 formula and follow the label directions. You can use a higher percentage of nitrogen
here since your citrus is in such distress. Pests can be a big problem on citrus towards the end of the summer. Scale and leaf miners can infect healthy looking plants fast. Scale is a hard-shelled insect that attaches itself to citrus stems, wood and the backs of the leaves. You will probably notice ants on your citrus before you actually see the scale. Control scale by removing highly infected branches, spray shrubs with Neem Oil and use an insect barrier like Tangle Foot to prevent the ants from traveling up the plants. Leaf miners are also a nui-
sance this year. Leaf miners are tiny, caterpillar-looking larva that mine there way within the layers of your citrus leaves. One they are present, you simply need to cut the tips of the stems off of the plants. Spraying isn’t an option, since the problem is within leaf. Growing citrus can be hard the first handful of years, but eventually the yields are worth all the work. Nothing beats a juicy, homegrown orange. Nicole is the Garden Girl at R&M Pool, Patio, Gifts and Garden. Contact her with questions or comments at Gardengirl@claytonpioneer.com
Captain Grammar Pants A reader has asked when to use CATACLYSMIC and when to use CATASTROPHIC. Cataclysm (Greek, "wash downward" or "deluge") has as its primary meaning a sudden event in the natural world; it also applies (secondarily) to political and social events. Catastrophe (also Greek, "turn downward") contains the idea that things that are upright and normal turn abruptly downward. It is not primarily or directly associated with the natural world the way cataclysm is. A stock market crash might involve losses of catastrophic proportions, but a natural disaster (particularly one that involves water) is definitely cataclysmic. Sean Williams is a professor of ethnomusicology at The Evergreen State College in Olympia, Wash. She is currently working on a Captain Grammar Pants book. Follow her regular postings on Facebook.
In 1975 I went from being a lawyer and the Deputy Chief of Staff on Vietnam’s Supreme Court to a penniless refugee supporting a pregnant wife and two small children by washing dishes, shining shoes, and delivering office mail. I never gave up. I embraced the idea of America and all the good that it stands for. Through hard work and perseverance, through my belief in the American Dream, I went from that penniless refugee to being the first Vietnamese-American appointed as a federal immigration judge. A position I held for almost 18 years before I retired to pursue a new dream. A civic calling as much as a dream. America has given so much to my family and me that I am compelled to give something back.
Concord City Council
I am running to be your congressman to put an end to the partisan gridlock in DC; to bring back civility and decorum to the halls of Congress. I believe that your interests should always be placed ahead of the desires of lobbyists. I have taken a vow to not accept any Special Interest money and call upon my opponent to do the same. For him to break his dependence on Special Interests that have caused him to place the wishes of the lobbyist few ahead of the people he represents. I believe in people and ideas. Not partisanship. Not politics. Not Special Interests. I am honored to earn your vote.
Serve the people, not the special interests!
Thank you,
Tue Phan,
Candidate for the US House of Representatives, District 11
“We support honesty.” Endorsed by Concord Naval Weapons Station Neighborhood Alliance I appreciate your financial support to make it possible Please make checks payable to: Committee to Elect Dr. Kumar for Concord City Council FPPC ID #1288209 Email: 2249 Pacheco St. Concord, CA 94520 drkumarforcitycouncil@yahoo.com
www.drkumar4concord.com
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Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
October 2014
Big flavor from little chiles
LINDA WYNER
FOOD
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Clayton Station Shopping Center 5439 Clayton Road (Suite F), Clayton, CA *Fares are subject to increase. 2-for-1 Fares and Early Booking Savings are based on published Full Brochure Fares; such fares may not have resulted in actual sales in all suite categories and do not include optional charges as detailed in the Guest Ticket Contract. “Free Roundtrip Air” promotion includes ground transfers and applies to coach, roundtrip flights only from the following airports: ATL, BOS, CLT, DEN, DFW, EWR, FLL, IAD, IAH, JFK, LAX, LGA, MCO, MIA, MSP, ORD, PBI, PHL, PHX, SAN, SEA, SFO, TPA, YUL, YVR, YYZ. Airfare is available from all other U.S. & Canadian gateways for an additional charge. Any advertised fares that include the “Free Roundtrip Air” promotion include all airline fees, surcharges and government taxes. Airline-imposed personal charges such as baggage fees may apply. For details visit exploreflightfees.com. Business Class air applies to inter-continental flights only. Free 1-Night Pre-Cruise Luxury Hotel Package applies to guests 1 and 2 in concierge suites and higher and is not available for new bookings made within 60 days of departure. Shipboard Credit is only available when booked through this agency. Ships’ Registry: Bahamas.
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This time of year, I’m jonesing for what I believe are the best chiles in the world: Hatch chiles from the little town of Hatch, New Mexico. The Hatch Valley stretches along the Rio Grande and just like in winegrowing regions of the world, the soil and growing conditions create a terroir that contributes to the flavor of the chilies. When mature, the pods can be harvested while green (more common) or red. Usually mild to medium hot, some varieties like the Big Jim can be much spicier than your typical jalapeño. Stores like Sprouts in Walnut Creek take some of the guesswork out of your selection by grading their Hatch chiles as hot, medium or mild. Medium is my cup of tea. Native to the Americas, Hatch chiles are part of the nightshade family, whose familiar relatives include tomatoes, potatoes and eggplant. One medium-sized green chile pod has as much Vitamin C as six oranges and when dried, one teaspoon of red chile powder has the recommended daily allowance of Vitamin A.
Throughout the Southwest, and especially in New Mexico and Texas, roadside roasters spring up in commercial parking lots and private driveways alike. I recall driving into Santa Fe one late summer day some years back and suddenly my eyes started to water. A few moments later, half a dozen huge drum roasters filled with green chiles came into view with folks lined up by the dozens to pick up their hot chiles by the binful. Festivals abound and chile cook-offs are in full swing about this time. Here are a couple of winning recipes I’m going to try out this year:
HATCH CHILE CHOCOLATE BARK From Dallas Lovers Hatch Recipe Contest Serves 1 (but if you must share, then maybe 4) 1/ 2 1/ 2
cup salted pistachios cup dried cherries or cranberries, chopped 1/ cup pumpkin seeds, 2 toasted 1/ Hatch chile pepper, finely 2 chopped 1 tsp. Kosher salt 1 lb. bittersweet chocolate (at least 64 percent cocoa solids), evenly chopped Line an 11x17-inch baking sheet with parchment paper. Combine pistachios, cherries, pumpkin seeds and Hatch chiles and set aside. In a microwave, melt the chocolate in a microwave safe bowl in 30 second increments until melted, stirring thoroughly between microwaving. Stir in half of the nut mixture. Spread the chocolate and nut mixture onto the prepared
baking sheet. Top with remaining mixture; sprinkle with salt. Chill in refrigerator until hard. Break into pieces.
HATCH CHILE-PEACH SALSA Adapted from Austin North Lamar Hatch Chile Festival Makes about 4 cups 3 cups chopped peaches (6 small or 4 medium), about 1/4 -inch diced 2 to 3 roasted Hatch green chilies, finely chopped 1 to 2 Tbsp. yellow onion, diced Dash of salt 1 Tbsp. chopped cilantro 1 tsp. lime juice Gently stir together ingredients in a small bowl and let sit at room temperature for about an hour (up to two hours; refrigerate if longer). Excellent with grilled pork or as a topping for baked Brie. Linda Wyner owns Pans on Fire, a gourmet cookware store and cooking school in Pleasanton. Send suggestions or questions to lwyner@pansonfire.com
October 2014
Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
Unpack the lederhosen – it’s Munich on Main at Clayton’s Oktoberfest
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Schaefer’s PAINTING
Rea a ne dy for w lo ok?
GARY CARR Special to the Pioneer
It’s fall, so that means Clayton’s gala Oktoberfest returns for its 11th year of Bier, Wurst and joyful Gemütlichkeit. The festivities take over Main Street in downtown Clayton from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 4 and from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 5. Back for their 11th year is the ever-popular little German band, The Internationals, “the guys who put the Oom in ‘Oom-pah.’” “The Internationals are one of the premier Oktoberfest bands in the U.S. and consider Clayton’s Oktoberfest as one of their favorites,” says long-time Oktoberfest volunteer Ed Hartley. Central to any Oktoberfest are the food and libations. German bier will flow, along with wine and cider. Wienerschnitzel, sausages, hot pretzels, and, of course, sauerkraut, will be available at the Food Court. Back again is the popular Sardine Family Circus, an acrobatic troupe who will perform throughout the weekend. They wowed Clayton last year, as they have been amazing the crowds at Pier 39 all year. The many arts and crafts booths will display early holiday gift ideas, including, jewelry, paintings, photographs, and an array of unique items.
Interior & Exterior Popcorn Ceilings
Bryan Schaefer Clayton Resident License #708321
Back for their 11th year at the Clayton CBCA Oktoberfest, The Internationals Dance Band defines “oompah pah.” Come for the beer, stay for the polka. Oct. 4 and 5, Main Street, Clayton.
For the kids, it’s glitter tattoos, face-painting, hot dogs, and lemonade. For the dogs, strategically placed water dishes. Again this year, the Paul Maurer Show brings popular carnival rides. The carnival opens a day in advance of Oktoberfest, Friday, Oct. 3 at 6 p.m. On Saturday, Oct. 5, rides are open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and on Sunday Oct. 6 from 11a.m. to the close of the festival. Tickets for the carnival rides will be presold at $10 for 20 coupons and will be available at the following
downtown Clayton merchants: Ed’s Mudville Grill, Hairs the Place, The Royal Rooster, and Skipolini’s Pizza. At the event ticket prices go up to $20 per 24 coupons. One welcome addition to festival this year will be a shuttle service to downtown from outlying lots, says event co-chair Mary Ann Lawrence. Oktoberfest is sponsored and overseen by the Clayton Business and Community Association. Along with the Art & Wine Festival, Oktoberfest is CBCA’s major fundraiser. This year’s co-
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$799,000
5 bedroom, 3 bathroom, 2,435 sq. ft. Listing agent: Matt Mazzei
Doug Van Riper Sales Agent DRE# 01883875
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925-787-6571 doug@dougvanriper.com
$324,500
3 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 1,459 sq. ft. Listing agent: Matt Mazzei
PENDING
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$549,000
3 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom, 1,650 sq.ft. Listing agent: Matt Mazzei
Rula Masannat Sales Agent DRE# 01923757
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PENDING: Buyer’s Representation
1047 Meadowgate Way, Brentwood $519,900 5 bedroom, 3 bathroom, 3,607 sq.ft., Agent: Rula Masannat
501 Suisun Ct. Clayton 3 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom, 1,904 sq.ft., Agent: Matt Mazzei
Matt Mazzei, Jr.
COMING SOON
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Broker/Owner DRE# 01881269
502 Scudero Cir. Pittsburg 4 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom, 1,776 sq. ft, Agent: Matt Mazzei
mazzeirealty.net Clayton residents since 1959
925-693-0757 (Main)
925-766-6745 mazzeirealty@yahoo.com
6160 Center St. Suite #C, Clayton
925-693-0752 (Fax)
chairs are Lawrence and Marilyn Schmidt. Both have worked with the event for many years. Without the help of hundreds of volunteers from all over the community, none of the fundraising events could happen, says Gregg Manning, CBCA President. Proceeds from CBCA fundraisers go to support local community projects. For information about the Oktoberfest or CBCA, call (925) 672-2272 or go to claytonoktoberfest.com.
(925) 260-6065
Family Trade since 1936
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Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
October 2014
Porcelain, shmorcelain; Tile is tile, right? resulting in hardness ratings of 6 or 7, literally off the ceramic scale. Compared to ceramic, porcelain tile is generally considered the more luxurious and valuable product. In fact, it has been the choice of royalty and the privileged classes for centuries, prized for its hardness and wide range of finishes, including slightly translucent gem-like colors. However, porcelain tiles may not be perfectly uniform in size, due to distortion during firing. This can make installation rather challenging, and you would be well advised to hire a professional – which in turn means the cost of installation must be part of your buying decision. Cleaning a porcelain floor is usually as simple as a damp mop and all-purpose cleaner, especially if it’s been sealed after installation. Use warm water and a clean, nonabrasive cloth, mop, or sponge. With a good glaze, stains are rare, and porcelain’s very low moisture absorption rate makes it an excellent choice for bathrooms and kitchens. The low absorption rate also helps the air quality in your home, because the tile does not absorb chemicals and other unwanted substances. Got it?
rating of 0 are strictly decorative and not suitable for floors, while tiles rated at 5 are very durable indeed. Ceramic tiles still exist that were part of the floors and walls in Pompeii when Mt. Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD. Glazed tiles resist fading, chipping, and staining, and last for years with very little maintenance. Clean-up is usually as simple as a quick mop. And if a single tile chips or cracks, it can be replaced quickly and affordably. Ceramic tile is one of the most durable and cost-effective of all floorings. It offers the advantages of simple installation, a wide variety of styles, extreme durability, easy maintenance, and added value for your home. It should be noted that, once installed, ceramic tile can be quite difficult to remove, probably requiring a professional. You’ll notice that ceramic tiles are not the least expensive flooring you can buy. However, their beauty, quality, and durability can make them a rewarding investment.
LARRY FLICK
UNDERFOOT It has come to our attention that some poor underprivileged people are unclear on the differences between porcelain and ceramic tile. We consider it our duty to put a stop to this, which we will now do, in alphabetical order.
C IS FOR CERAMIC To make ceramic tiles, clay is pressed, cut into shapes, and fired in a kiln at extremely high temperatures. Finished tiles are available glazed or unglazed. Glazed tiles are harder, easier to clean, and resist weather and moisture more effectively. Unglazed tiles are porous, so more susceptible to stains, but they are less slippery, and can be treated with a protective sealant. (Conversely, glazed tiles can be treated with an anti-slip coating.) Most ceramic tiles are rated by the Porcelain Enamel Institute on a hardness scale from 0 to 5. Tiles with a
P IS FOR PORCELAIN This tile is made by combining natural products such as crushed China stone (a type of feldspar) and kaolinite with chemicals that give it strength. The rest of the process is essentially identical to that for ceramic tiles, except that porcelain is fired at even higher temperatures,
Larry Fleck is president of The Floor Store. Email your questions or comments to larryf@floorstores.com
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