April 2017 Community Focus

COMMUNITY

FOCUS

APRIL 2017 Reaching Over 50,000 Homes & Businesses

ourcommunityfocus.com

IN THIS ISSUE: • WINE WOMEN AND SHOES • CENTRAL COUNTY HOMES • WINTER ALL-LEAGUE

PLEASANT HILL • CONCORD • MARTINEZ • LAFAYETTE • WALNUT CREEK

Julie Says

Eat the Ears First

BY JULIE ROSS Wondering when Easter is this year? There are two ways of figuring this out.

The first method involves knowledge of the lunar calendar. Every year, Easter falls on the first Sunday following the first full moon after the vernal equinox.

The second method is with your regular paper calendar or datebook. Get it out and start flipping pages, beginning with March, and continuing until you find a Sunday with “Easter Sunday” written in the little square. If you get to May, you have gone too far. (To narrow your search down a little, the earliest possible date for Easter is March 22 in any given year, and the latest date is April 25.) To save you all some time, I already used the paper calendar method

and determined that Easter Sunday 2017 falls on April 16.

As we all know, determining the date is not the only confusing thing about the holiday. You know what I’m talking about – the blind acceptance by millions of an egg-laying rabbit. Never mind that rabbits do not lay eggs. The vast majority of the population believes, likely based on its proclivity to wear bow ties, that the Easter Bunny is male. Hmmm.

German immigrants to Pennsylvania in the 1700s brought with them the story of an egg-laying hare known as Osterhase or Oschter Haws. Children made nests for the hare to lay colored eggs. As commercialism set in, nests were replaced by baskets and actual eggs with candy.

Just how much candy, you ask? In the U.S. each year, we buy 120 million pounds of Easter candy at a cost of $2.1

billion. This includes the production of 16 billion jellybeans, which is enough to circle the globe nearly three times. It also includes 90 million chocolate rabbits.

The National Confectioners Association reports that 76% of Americans say people should eat the ears first on a chocolate rabbit. If this is a subject of debate in your household, I suggest you

go with the majority and begin at the top. My own favorite Easter treat is the Cadbury Egg, laid by that fluffy white bunny in TV ads every spring. Sure hope he hops by soon. Enjoy our beautiful spring weather, and have a Happy Easter!

You can reach Julie at julieakross@ comcast.net

SMALL TALK WITH TERI

by Teri Norbye

independent & locally owned

PUBLISHERS: Becky Coburn Jennifer Neys Elena Hutslar info@ourcommunityfocus.com ADVERTISING: Community Focus Central County Homes info@ourcommunityfocus.com COPY EDITOR: Alison Clary GRAPHIC DESIGN: Trish Heaney

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A Spin on DIY

SUBMISSION DEADLINES: All articles must be sumbmitted by the 15th of each month.

ONLINE: www.ourcommunityfocus.com

MISSION STATEMENT The Community Focus is a free, independent, monthly publication dedicated to highlighting the vibrancy of the local businesses and residents while strengthening and building connections within our community.

COVER:

Wine, Women & Shoes event held at Pleasant Hill Community Center in May, 2016. See “Luxury Event Returns,” page 5.

PHOTO BY: Susan Wood Photography

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INSIDE

april 2017 • ourcommunityfocus.com

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High School Memorial Page

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Earth Day

14 School News

32 Woman of the Year

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6680 Alhambra Ave. Box #132 Martinez, CA 94553

925-335-6397

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Meet Maile Mariano. She lives in Martinez and works at the Corner Bakery in Pleasant Hill. She says the best part of working at the bakery is that she gets to work with her best friend, Linda, who is a server there. She also works and volunteers at the YMCA in Pleasant Hill. Maile was named Volunteer of the Year at the YMCA just last year.

What do you like to do for fun? I like to go swimming. And I like to go shopping and just hang out.

My favorite places to shop are Michael’s and Kohl’s.

Where would you like to travel to one day? I would like to go back to Hawaii.

I don’t think that’s going to happen again because we had a very unfortunate event when we visited Hawaii last September. When we were in Oahu, some guy fell asleep at the wheel and jumped the center divider. He rammed into our car and my mom fractured both her femurs. Thankfully, she just started walking during rehab.

How would you describe yourself? I’m a very outgoing person, and I like to make people happy.

Happy Easter!

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Estate Planning

Real Estate Trends

BY DANIEL DuREE

Regardless of how well drafted your estate planning documents are, life changes inevitably require changes to your estate plan. The type of change and the document it affects determines how these alterations are made. Below are methods for making changes to the following estate plan documents.

Living Trust

Life changes which alter how you wish to distribute your assets or who you want to be in charge of that distribution involve the living trust.

A living trust is changed by doing an amendment to the trust. An amendment is a separate document that will be attached to the trust and describes the changes that will be made. The downside to a simple amendment is that when you are gone, people will see the original trust as well as the change.

So if you are making a change that may hurt feelings of a loved one (such as removing one child as successor trustee in favor of another), you can always do a restatement, which is basically a completely new version of the trust with the new terms. With a restatement, there is no evidence of what the original terms of the trust were.

Will

With a trust based estate plan, a pour-over will is generally used, which leaves everything to the trust. Because

BY NORMA FLASKERUD

Many areas around the entire country, including ours, are experiencing a shortage of homes for sale. Sure, the seller advantage makes it fun for the homeowners who can sell with little competition, but buyers are chomping at the bit. The seller gets multiple offers, the price bids up, and buyers are willing to take things as-is like a dead furnace or a bad roof.

Buyers are discouraged, and we feel for them! If they do get a house, they are often paying top dollar, more than a similar house sold for weeks or months ago. Saga of a house in Clayton: yes, it was remodeled to the nth degree, gorgeous in and out, backing to open space. It was priced at $750,000, a price supported by recent comparable sales. The open house brought tons of visitors and 17 offers! A bid of $775,000 was not even in the ballpark. The sales price ended up well over $800,000 (until it closes, the listing agent cannot reveal the final closing price). It’s a lovely thing for the sellers. But there are 16 disappointed buyers out there, still searching.

In Pleasant Hill, we put up a “Coming Soon” sign while our seller was clearing out the house, getting it in shape to sell. We suddenly got offers and shared them with the seller. One

Making Changes to Your Plan

of this feature, if you are making a change in asset distributions, you do it through an amendment to the trust rather than changing the will. However, if you are changing who you wish to be in charge of your estate when you pass away, you should also change the executor of your will. A will is changed by creating what is called a codicil. It is similar to an amendment to a trust and is a separate document that is then kept with the will.

Durable Power of Attorney or Advance Healthcare Directive

If you wish to change who will be in charge of your financial, personal, or healthcare management should you become incapacitated, you will need to appoint a new agent under your durable power of attorney and/or advance healthcare directive. There is no amendment method to these documents, and new documents will be drafted.

Remember, when making any changes to a will or a trust in which the same execution requirements apply, a trust amendment must be notarized and two independent witnesses must witness a will. If you have any questions about changes to your estate planning documents, please feel free to call my office.

Daniel L. DuRee is a third generation resident of Contra Costa County and a licensed attorney practicing in Walnut Creek. He can be reached at (925) 210-1400 or visit www.DuReeLaw. com.

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april 2017 • ourcommunityfocus.com

was so good the out-of-state seller felt relieved to be done and accepted it. We counseled them that with full market exposure they would have gotten more money, but without having to paint, do floors, clean or anything else? Sold!

Another reason for low inventory is that some sellers are keeping the old house when they buy new for a rental since rents are so high. And some are not selling at all because finding the move-up or move-down house is so challenging.

Spring is in the air. Daffodils are blooming; gardens are perking up after a wet, cold winter. Let’s hope more homeowners perk-up and put homes up for sale so the tight inventory will loosen up and we will see more smiling homebuyers.

The Fourth of July may seem like months away, but we want those of you who enjoy the annual fireworks display in Pleasant Hill to think about donating to make it even grander. We (Don and Norma) have offered to match donations this year so that the fireworks can be increased to spectacular! Send your donations to 4th of July Commission, PO Box 23272, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523, and we will match it, up to $5000, for a total of $10,000 increase in money spent on fireworks! Let’s make it grand!

Call The Flaskerud Team for all your real estate needs. Don and Norma: 925338-2980 or DonaldFlaskerud@Remax. net or NormaFlaskerud@Remax.net.

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Birthday - Earth Day

John Muir’s Birthday and Earth Day Celebration

Join the National Park Service annual celebration of both John Muir’s 179th birthday and Earth Day on Saturday, April 22, 10am to 4pm, at the John Muir National Historic Site in Martinez.

This celebration, held rain or shine, features family-oriented outdoor activities, exhibits by national parks and conservation organizations, and live music, including a bagpipe band. Parking and admission are free.

Visitors can enjoy self-guided tours of Muir’s historic Italianate Victorian home. Bring your kids, family, and friends for a refreshing outdoor experience celebrating our Earth. Last year, over 2,700 guests attended this event.

John Muir National Historic Site, located at 4202 Alhambra Avenue in Martinez, is open seven days a week from 10am to 5pm. Admission is free

of charge. Free general parking and shuttle transportation will be available at Alhambra High School (Alhambra Avenue at “E” Street; follow the signs).

For more information, please visit the John Muir Association website www.johnmuirassociation.org or the park website at www.nps.gov/jomu.

Visitors can enjoy self-guided tours of Muir’s historic Italianate Victorian home. Photo by The National Park Service

Luxury Fundraiser Returns

On Sunday, May 21, over 350 fabulous guests will kick up their heels at Wine, Women & Shoes to support two great causes: Pleasant Hill Recreation & Park District and HomeAid Northern California. This special fundraiser is part of a nationwide luxury event series that raises money for various women’s and family-related causes in local communities. At the event, guests will sip varietals from top winemakers, nibble on appetizers, shop the latest trends in the outdoor marketplace, enjoy a red carpet fashion show, bid on one-of-a kind auction items, and slip on fantasy shoes served up on silver platters by charming local “Shoe Guys.”

Wine, Women & Shoes

May 21, 2-6pm at Perera Pavilion, Pleasant Hill Community Center. Tickets available at winewomenandshoes.com/contracosta. Follow Wine, Women and Shoes on Facebook.

Golden Heel Sponsors: Republic Services, LandHome Financial, Contra Costa Oncology, Laura Wucher Real Estate Team, Diablo Magazine, BIA Building Industry Association and Kendra Scott

Photo by Susan Wood Photography

People enjoy Earth Day exhibits

Shell/MEF Logo Contest

The 15th Annual Shell/MEF Run for Education will be Sunday, October 1, 2017.

The 5k/10k Fun Run/Walk is a fundraising event that benefits all Martinez Unified School District (MUSD) schools. The Martinez Education Foundation (MEF) is seeking student designs for the T-shirts used to promote this event. The design should be in color (maximum 4) and be 8 1/2”x11” in size. Hand drawn or computer-generated art by current MUSD students will be accepted.

Please include the following information on the back of your entry: name, grade, school, parent/guardian name, parent email (preferred) or phone number. Entries are due to your school office no later than 4pm on Thursday, April 20, 2017. The winner will receive a prize and will be recognized at this year’s race. For questions, email martinezmef@sbcglobal.net.

Judges consider the 2016 T-shirt design entries. ourcommunityfocus.com • april 2017

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Facing Hardship Food Bank Supports Veteran

BY RACHEL BRAVER, COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR

Sadly, as financially independent adults transition into their senior years, they often find themselves needing help just to get by. They’ve worked hard for decades but end up facing hardship in their later years.

Mario, now 66, figured he would work until he could afford to retire; however, he was forced into early retirement at the age of 63. Because of an extremely painful genetic arthritic condition, he could no longer work as a building maintenance supervisor. “It got to a point where I could not use my hands for employment,” he shared.

“Once the salary stopped, my life completely changed.”

Mario said he never thought about having to find services such as food as-

sistance when he was working. “When you are getting a paycheck, you just go to the grocery store,” he explained. Like many seniors in our community, Mario lives on his modest Social Security check. Monthly Social Security of $1,164 allows Mario to share an apartment in Pleasant Hill with a roommate so he can split the $1,500 in rent. When every dollar counts, it’s clear “how vital the Food Bank is.” Mario relies on pantry staples, fresh produce, and eggs from the Food Bank. Just $1 provides food for two meals!

Any donation you send today helps ensure that seniors and others living on fixed incomes in Contra Costa and Solano counties have healthy food to eat. Please help ease the burden of struggling seniors like Mario through foodbankccs.org/focus.

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April 9-15 is National Library Week The Evolution of School Libraries

BY LAUREL BURNS, MDUSD TEACHER LIBRARIAN

Do you remember your school librarian? I do. I remember my elementary, middle and high school librarians.

Miss Natushko in particular stands out in my mind. She was my high school librarian. She was a seasoned teacher who possessed a no-nonsense, “Don’t mess with me” attitude. Let’s just say

she could be slightly intimidating to a young, follow-the-rules type of girl like me. Of course, I realized even then that she had to be strict in order to maintain the calm that was the library. Likewise, I eventually recognized that as tough as Miss Natushko was on the outside, she was just as nurturing on the inside. She made sure each of her students knew how much she cared about them, their

Newest Little Free Library TAKE A BOOK, LEAVE A BOOK

Pleasant Hill has a new Little Free Library in the Woodside Hills development, near the corner of Grayson and Heritage Hills Drive. Ethan Tuey and other members of his Boy Scout troop built the library for Ethan’s Eagle Scout project. The Little Free Library, a non-profit organization whose theme is “Take a Book, Leave a Book,” started in Wisconsin in 2009 and now has over 50,000 libraries in more than 70 countries. (More information is available at www.LittleFreeLibrary.org.)

The idea for this library came from a conversation in 2014 between Woodside Hills neighbors Dawn Block and Sue Fine, who sponsored the library and designed a prototype. Patty Sorensen, also a neighborhood resident, was the Eagle advisor who tapped Ethan for the project. Ethan and fellow scouts Ryan Sechler, Sam Rogers, Bradley Freitas, and Aidan Nolan assembled the structure, aided by Tim Tuey (project advisor) and Mike Warriner (Eagle project coach). Scouts Ethan, Ryan, Sam, Bradley, and Jonathan Cooney installed the library on land donated by the Schlesinger family.

Woodside Hills residents are happy to have this attractive new resource in their neighborhood. Everyone can easily share books or just say “hi” as they pass by, adding an even greater sense of community in this friendly part of town. We’re all grateful to Ethan and Boy Scout Troop 277.

education, and their school. That is what librarians do. They oversee their libraries and they watch over their kids.

Times have certainly changed since many of us were in school. The digital age is upon us. iPads, smart phones, chrome books, and laptops are now the norm. The majority of people, including tech savvy kids, are able to gather information via the Internet as answers appear instantaneously on their devices.

This begs the question, Are school libraries and librarians really necessary in this electronic world? Without a doubt, the answer is yes. There is nothing archaic about libraries or librarians.

Contrary to popular belief, books are not obsolete. They simply share the stage with other media, and it remains the job of a professional teacher librarian to guide students as they search the black hole of information that is available today.

I must be completely honest in regard to my belief that school libraries and the professionals who staff them are vital to the success of the modern student. I have had the privilege of working as a teacher librarian for twenty years, and I have seen firsthand the valuable role our library media centers play in our schools, from elementary through high school and beyond. I would argue

that librarians have actually become more essential due to the sheer volume of information available to our children in this online era.

Equal access to print and non-print materials that support the curriculum is critical for student achievement. The school library media center provides every student that access. Schools with credentialed teacher librarians have significantly higher test scores as it is the teacher librarian who imparts crucial 21st century skills related to digital citizenship, informational literacy and digital literacy. Students need to know how to access, evaluate, and integrate information. They must understand the ethical, safe, and legal expectations that come with using information and technology in the real world. All of this is taught within school library media centers.

Author Neil Gaiman accurately described what happens in the library when he said, “Google can bring you back 100,000 answers, a librarian can bring you back the right one.” We are fortunate to live in an area that values the positive impact libraries have on students and our community. Please contact your local school district to learn more about how you can support fully staffed libraries.

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City of Pleasant Hill

Mayor’s Message The Amazing Race of Pleasant Hill

There are many wonderful organizations and events in Pleasant Hill that enhance the lives of the people who live here. Among my favorites are the Foundation for Pleasant Hill Education (FPHE) and the Amazing Race of Pleasant Hill.

FPHE was established in response to funding cuts for education at the state and school district level. During its first year, FPHE hosted fundraising events, implemented a citywide donation campaign, and awarded over $14,000 in grants to Pleasant Hill public schools. The grants represented a significant contribution of funds to enhance educational opportunities for Pleasant Hill students.

The Amazing Race of Pleasant Hill is one of the foundation’s key fundraising activities and one of my favorite citywide events. The 4th annual Amazing Race will be held on Sunday, April 30, and begins at noon at Magoo’s Grill. Arrive between 10am and noon and enjoy brunch, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the foundation.

Based on the popular TV show, this fun event challenges participants of all ages, with interesting clues and activities at various locations throughout Pleasant Hill. (Activities resemble those on the TV show Minute to Win It.) The activities and skill tests are suitable for all ages. Kids are encouraged to participate with their parents.

Registration is $50 per team. Teams can consist of a group of four or less.

Invite your family, friends, and business associates to form a group! Teams are encouraged to show team spirit with matching outfits.

At 4pm, all teams will meet at Pleasant Hill City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane, to determine the winner. Prizes will be awarded for 1st, 2nd, 3rd place 8

and Most Spirit. The Amazing Race is co-sponsored by Magoo’s Grill and the City of Pleasant Hill. Proceeds benefit the 2017 FPHE school grant program.

Since 2009, FPHE has awarded over $220,000 to the eleven public schools within the College Park High School feeder pattern. FPHE grants are awarded based on a combination of criteria, including the number of students impacted and the contribution to or support of language arts, math, science, and other key curriculum areas.

The program arm of the foundation focuses on Reading Readiness, which targets students in grades K-2 at each elementary school in Pleasant Hill. Volunteers are matched with young readers and work one-on-one with students under a teacher’s guidance to improve their reading skills and give them the confidence they need to thrive in the classroom. No previous experience is necessary to volunteer, just a commitment of one hour a week to make a difference. Volunteers need to be fingerprinted and TB tested.

In conjunction with our library, FPHE sponsors two programs. Pleasant Hill Reads is a citywide reading program modeled after the One City, One Book program. Pleasant Hill Reads is designed to foster community discussion about books by encouraging our entire community to read the same book at the same time. The Night of 1000 Inventions is an annual event where the Pleasant Hill Library is transformed into an inventor’s lab, with exhibits made by young scientists.

Another arm of the foundation is the Green Team, an interdisciplinary education program which focuses on organic gardens, healthy food, nutrition training and sustainability, including reduce/reuse/recycle. These programs go hand-in hand with school programs

april 2017 • ourcommunityfocus.com

Michael G. Harris, OD, Mayor of Pleasant Hill

on STEM, Common Core, and Next Generation Science Standards alignment covering K-12.

Visit www.fphe.org to learn more about FPHE, the Amazing Race of Pleas-

ant Hill, and to purchase tickets.

Don’t miss this great family event!

See you at The Amazing Race on Sunday April 30. It’s guaranteed to be lots of fun for the entire family!

Public Meetings City Council Mar. Apr. 3, 17 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane, Council Chambers, 7:30pm. Contact: 671-5229 Civic Action Commission Apr. 5 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane, Small Community Room, 6:30pm. Contact: 671-5229 Architectural Review Commission Apr. 6, 20 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane, Small Community Room, 5pm. Contact: 671-5209 Planning Commission Apr. 11, 25 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane, Council Chambers, 6:30pm. Contact: 671-5209 Commission on Aging Apr. 13 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane, Small Community Room, 5pm. Contact: 671-5229 Education Commission Apr. 26 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane, Community Room, 7pm For Confirmation Visit: www.ci.pleasant-hill.ca.us PH Rec & Park Board Meetings are typically held the 2nd & 4th Thursday each month at District Office, 147 Gregory Lane. Meeting dates and agendas are posted 72 hours prior to meeting. Refer to recent agenda for meeting dates. District residents are encouraged to contact Board members about current issues facing the District.

Chamber Calendar Apr. 7 - PH Chamber Ambassador Meeting 8:30-9:30am, City Hall Community Room, 100 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill Apr. 12 - Member Orientation 5-6:30pm, JFK University, 100 Ellinwood Way, Pleasant Hill Apr. 13 - Chamber Business Mixer 5-7pm, Hyatt House, 2611 Contra Costa Blvd., Pleasant Hill Apr. 20 - PH Chamber Board Meeting 8-9:30am, WiseGirl Ristorante, 1932 Oak Park Blvd., Pleasant Hill Apr. 20 - Young Professionals Mixer 5-7pm, WiseGirl Ristorante, 1932 Oak Park Blvd., Pleasant Hill Apr. 24 - Government Affairs Committee 5:30-6:30pm, Back Forty Texas BBQ, 100 Coggins Dr., Pleasant Hill Apr. 27 - Ribbon Cutting 5-6pm, Hospice East Bay New Thrift Shoppe, 959 Contra Costa Blvd., Pleasant Hill Apr. 27 - 2017 Diablo Valley Mayor’s Summit 11:30am-1:30pm, Concord Clarion Hotel, 1050 Burnett Ave., Concord 680 Business Networking 8-9am, 2nd & 4th Wednesdays or Thursdays, JFK University, 100 Ellinwood Way, Pleasant Hill OFF THE GRID Food Trucks 5-9pm, Wednesdays, Trelany Road, Pleasant Hill

City of Pleasant Hill

Pleasant Hill City News New City Interactive Map

On February 17, the City of Pleasant Hill Planning Division launched a new interactive map that provides information on active planning projects throughout the city. The map can be found by searching “interactive map” on the city website. Viewers can click on any of the project icons and find details such as project location, scope, type, and land area involved, as well as the status of each project. Residents can scroll anywhere on the map and click on the blue pins. “The projects are geographically located all over the city, ranging from the DVC Plaza remodel project to residential subdivisions, daycares, and hotels. A week after the site was initiated, we had almost 3,000 hits, and we’ve received a lot of positive feedback. We’re hoping to continue to add more information and look forward to continuing to provide the public with easier information about the development process,” said Greg Fuz, city planner.

Pleasant Hill Hosts 1st Senior Home Spring Clean Up Day

Are you a senior Pleasant Hill resident age 65 or older and need some light yard work done around the front of your home? The Civic Action Commission is partnering with the Commission on Aging and the Senior Center to reach out to seniors in the Pleasant Hill community who may need some help with clearing weeds, trimming shrubs, and other light landscaping. The first annual Senior Home Clean Up Day is on Sunday, May 7.

Volunteers Also Needed

The Civic Action Commission is in need of volunteers residing in Pleasant Hill to participate and make this intergenerational event a success. Volunteers who pre-register are also invited to a free pancake breakfast, hosted by the Pleasant Hill Senior Center at 8:30am on the morning of the cleanup. Work on the projects is expected to begin at 10 am and be completed by 1pm. For volunteers who do not pre-register, a $5 donation will be charged for breakfast at the door. If you are good with a rake and want to help some folks in need, then we need you! Seniors who are interested and individuals who want to volunteer can contact Martin Nelis at (925) 671-5229 or mnelis@pleasanthillca.org. For more information or to pre-register for the event online, go to www.pleasanthillca.org/cleanup.

City Now Accepting Applications for Measure K Oversight Committee

City News Continued ing in size from 8,171 square feet to 17,549 square feet. The project is anticipated to be a Planned Unit Development (PUD) to facilitate clustering and allow for lots smaller than 10,000 sq. ft.; however, it will be required to comply with the general plan density range of 3.1 to 4.5 units per net acre for the single-family, medium density land use designation. The project will include new private streets, landscape areas, and frontage improvements.

The site was owned by the Molino family and included two residences with a ravioli business, which operated out of the main home for many years. In 2016, the current property owner obtained city approval to demolish both existing structures. Additional general plan goals, policies, and programs will be reviewed in greater detail in the subsequent planning permit review process. The site is also noted in the housing element as a housing opportunity site, with the potential for at least one unit for moderate income households and at least three or more market rate units. You can track the progress of this development on the city’s new interactive map.

Earth Day Celebration in the Garden April 30

Learn more about sustainable gardening, composting, recycling, water quality and conservation, native plants, beekeeping, and how to provide for pollinators at the Pleasant Hill Instructional Garden (PHIG) during the free Earth Day Celebration on Sunday, April 30, from 1pm-4pm.

Local experts, a garden tour, games, and hands-on activities are planned for everyone. Bring your smart phone to use the iNaturalist app, developed by the California Academy of Sciences, to be part of a citizen science BioBlitz. U.C. Master Gardeners of Contra Costa, Diablo Valley College’s Horticulture Club, Foundation for Pleasant Hill Education’s Green Team, California Native Plant Society, Sustainable Contra Costa, Mt. Diablo Audubon Society, Wild Birds Unlimited, Mt. Diablo Beekeepers Association, Central Contra Costa Sanitary District, Solar City, and other exhibitors will be available to answer many questions and will have items for sale. Register for the free garden tour at phigarden@gmail.com. Free parking available at 1 Santa Barbara Rd. in Pleasant Hill. Questions: (925) 482-6670. Visit phig.webs.com for more information.

Holy Week and Easter Services: Good Friday – 12:00 noon & 7:00 p.m.

Saturday Easter Vigil – 7:30 p.m.

Easter Day – 8:00 a.m. & 10:15 a.m.

Pleasant Hill voters approved Measure K at the November 8, 2016, election, allowing for a half-cent sales tax rate increase to begin on April 1, 2017.

The measure requires an oversight committee to review the expenditure of the funds collected from the new transactions and use tax. The composition of the oversight committee was established by the city council on February 6, 2017, and applications are now being accepted through Wednesday, April 19. For an application or more information, visit the City of Pleasant Hill website at www. pleasanthillca.org/commission or contact Juanita Davalos by phone at (925) 671-5283 or e-mail at jdavalos@pleasanthillca.org.

(Easter egg hunt following the 10:15 service)

ALL ARE WELCOME!

Former Molino Site in Pre-Application Stage Reliez Terraces Residential Subdivision

On February 28, a study session was held by the planning commission to review and provide preliminary feedback on a proposal from Mt. Diablo View Associates, LLC, for a 17-lot, single-family residential subdivision proposed for the former Molino property at 2150 and 2198 Pleasant Hill Road. The project site is approximately 4.42 acres, and the proposed subdivision would have lots rang-

Episcopal Church of the Resurrection 399 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill

www.resurrectionph.org; 925-685-2288

ourcommunityfocus.com • april 2017

9

City of Martinez

Mayor’s Message State of the City

On February 14, I delivered my 15th State of the City at a breakfast sponsored by the Martinez Chamber of Commerce and hosted by Creekside Church. At the suggestion of Executive Director of the Chamber Julie Johnston, City Manager Brad Kilger, Chief of Police Manjit Sappal, and I delivered the annual message. We followed a talk by Political Editor Dan Borenstein, who gave us an update on the current status of the Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) debt and more specific information about where Martinez sits in relationship to other cities in California.

In my opinion, it was the best State of the City event in my tenure on the city council. It was informative, inspiring, and entertaining. Everyone I spoke with left with a feeling of excitement about the direction we are going and the future of Martinez. So, in my contribution this month, I want to cover some of the highlights of this year’s State of the City message.

Finances

The financial picture for the city is again healthy, ending the 2016 fiscal year with a surplus of $2.7 million, with a general fund of $22.9 million. Our current unrestricted fund balance (rainy day fund) is at $7.435 million. Because of our conservative budgeting, this reserve has steadily grown from the previous balance in 2012 of $3.3 million. Other reserve funds in the amount of $5.3 million are earmarked for economic uncertainty, catastrophic events, infrastructure, and pension and retiree healthcare obligations.

Our long-term financial projections show that we will continue to stay in the black but will have to use small amounts of the “rainy day fund,” assuming no enhancements to our revenue stream.

10

Capital Projects

Recently completed capital projects include the new Alhambra Creek Bridge at Berrellesa Street. This bridge creates a much-needed second access to the Martinez waterfront, recreational facilities, and future landside development, soon to be planned.

The large surface parking lot bounded by Ferry Street, Marina Vista, and Escobar Street has been improved with new pavement surfaces, landscaping, lighting, and a metering station.

Although this lot has been recently improved, it has enormous potential for a future mixed-use project that could include commercial/retail, parking, and housing.

Hidden Lakes

The Hidden Lakes turf soccer field, funded by Measure H, was completed in October. This was a $1.8 million project that replaced the natural turf field with artificial turf suitable for multiple uses.

In conjunction with the field being replaced, the track and walkways around the field were renovated and brought up to current ADA standards.

Streets and Roads

Although there is much work to be done to rehabilitate our streets and roads, we did complete many important improvements. Paving projects have been completed in Virginia Hills, Elderwood Glen, Mountain View, and Rolling Hills areas. Crews completed 178,000 sq. ft. of pavement dig-out and repairs and used 280,000 yards of rubberized chip and slurry seal. Two additional sorely needed projects are the full dig-out and repaving of Center Avenue over Highway 4 and Morello Avenue under Highway 4. That work will commence once the winter rains subside.

Measure D

A big win for Martinez in 2016 was

april 2017 • ourcommunityfocus.com

Rob Schroder, Mayor of Martinez

the successful passage of Measure D. This measure, which was passed by the voters with a 72% yes vote, will provide over $2.1 million of additional revenue to the city to be used only for the improvement and maintenance of our roads and streets, tripling our current paving budget. Effective April 1, the sales tax in Martinez will increase by 0.05% and will automatically sunset in 15 years. The projects will be chosen through a combination of engineering analysis, MTC road surveys, and public input. Each year, the Infrastructure & Franchise subcommittee of the city council will make recommendations to the full city council when the annual capital projects program is considered and adopted.

New County Government Center

Martinez has been the host to county government since California became a state. We will continue to hold that title, with the unanimous decision of the board of supervisors, to build a new county government center in downtown. A new four-story administration building will be constructed just north of the existing 12-story building, which will be torn down and replaced with a two-story parking garage. The old historic granite jail will be given a two-year “stay of execution,” and the

concrete jail annex, built in the 1940s, will be removed. This $48 million project creates all types of opportunities for the development and improvement of downtown Martinez.

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Public Meetings City Council Meeting Apr. 5, 19 City Hall, 525 Henrietta Street, 6-9pm. Contact: 372-3500 Zoning Administrator Meeting Apr. 5, 19 City Hall, 525 Henrietta Street, 4-6pm. Contact: 372-3500 Design Review Meeting Apr. 12, 26 City Hall, 525 Henrietta Street, 4-6pm. Contact: 372-3500 Planning Commission Meeting Apr. 11, 25 City Hall, 525 Henrietta Street, 7-11pm. Contact: 372-3500 For Confirmation Visit: www.cityofmartinez.org

Our Professional Staff

City of Martinez

Martinez City News Community Group Funding Program

The City of Martinez has long been a supporter of local non-profit organizations that serve the Martinez community. To help achieve this objective, the city council adopted a Community Groups Funding Program in March 2007. The city is now accepting applications from community organizations for the upcoming Fiscal Year 2017-18, which starts July 1, 2017.

Application forms are available through the link below and at the city clerk’s office (Martinez City Hall) at 525 Henrietta Street. Please note that completed and signed applications for Fiscal Year 2017-18 must be submitted by 3pm on Friday, April 14, or scanned and sent via email to mcabral@cityofmartinez.org. Applications will be reviewed by city staff, considered by the budget subcommittee, and forwarded with recommendations to the city council. A total of $7,676 from the general fund and $3,500 from the recycle fund were approved to support this program last year, and 11 local organizations were approved to receive community grants.

Egg Hunt!

The Lion’s Club Egg Hunt takes place at 10am on Saturday, April 15, at the Waterfront Park grass area. The hunt and face painting is for children ages 2 – 9.

Don’t forget to bring your camera to take pictures with the bunny. Please arrive at the park by 9:45am.

City News Continued firmed the commitment to treating people equally, embracing diversity, and providing services to all people, regardless of their immigration status. The discussion led to the review of a draft resolution reinforcing the commitment to being an inclusive, tolerant, and supportive community for everyone. A portion of the resolution includes, “the City of Martinez will not inquire upon a resident’s immigration status in either provision of municipal services or in the course of law enforcement and the City of Martinez Police Department shall not arrest or detain any person solely for violations pertaining to immigration status.” The city council is firm in their commitment to ensure that all people residing in, working in, visiting, and passing through the City of Martinez be safe, treated with dignity, and treated equally.

Keep the Fields Clean

In the interest of keeping our sports fields safe, clean, and maintained for youth and adult sports leagues, the Martinez Recreation and Parks Department wants to remind the public that dogs are not allowed on any of the city-owned sports fields, on or off leash. Leashed dogs are allowed in the parks surrounding the fields and in open-space, provided that owners clean up after their pets.

Measure H Annual Update by City Treasurer

A presentation by City Treasurer Carolyn Robinson was provided to city council on Measure H for 2016. She reviewed past successes, current projects, future projects, and the financial report. She reported there was a little over $3 million in the budget as of December 2016. She reviewed the expenditure report, indicating total cost to date is $4,502,028.75. Upcoming or remaining projects include Waterfront Park. In addition to bond money, the city is going to have WW money from East Bay Parks, or $1.4 million to help with Waterfront Park and another $300,000 from a fund the county has for parks. “Looking at 2017 and 2018 improvement projects, we are still looking at Golden Hills Park, Highland Park, John Muir Park, and Alhambra Park, estimated to cost a total of almost 2 million dollars, and the remaining park would be Morello,” said City Treasurer Robinson.

Best Mechanic

Brickyard Run

Come join the fun on Sunday, April 9, for the Martinez Brickyard Run, a local tradition for the past 48 years. As always, there will be a unique “Brick” award for age group winners. The race’s starting and finishing line is in front of the Rankin Aquatic Center, 100 Buckley Street. The 4 and 8-mile race is “out and back” on Carquinez Scenic Drive, and the course is entirely on pavement with rolling hills.

Awards: 3 deep male/female in the following categories: 13 & under, 14-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, and 70+. Overall male and female winner will receive a pair of Hoka One One running shoes. There will also be post race raffle prizes from various sponsors. Pre-registration closes on April 6. Tickets are $30 per runner and can be purchased at www.eventbrite.com. Questions? E-mail brickyardrun@gmail. com. The run benefits Alhambra High School and the Martinez Recreation Department.

City’s Stance on Immigration and Resolution

At the March 15 city council meeting, council made a motion and adopted a resolution reinforcing that the City of Martinez is committed to being an inclusive, tolerant, and supportive community for everyone.

In light of recent events and the national attention about immigration, on March 1, 2017, the city council discussed their stance on immigration and af-

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11

City of Walnut Creek

Mayor’s Message New Additions

I hope you are enjoying our beautiful spring weather along with our trails and open spaces. A little known fact is that Walnut Creek has the most trails of any city in the state. And, only one other city in the state has more open space than Walnut Creek. We hope you take time to join us on our trails in our open spaces. Be sure and check out the abundant wildlife and varied plant life as you relax and meditate in the beauty of nature.

Walnut Creek keeps moving forward and improving what it has to offer.

In this column, I’ll mention just a few of the many things happening in this beautiful city.

Amazon Books

Those who have bemoaned the loss of Barnes & Noble, of which I am one, will be delighted with one of the newest additions to Broadway Plaza.

Amazon will soon be opening a bookstore in Broadway Plaza. It will be one of only four such bookstores nationwide and will be welcome in Walnut Creek.

This store will provide shoppers with

the best of both worlds: electronic services for those who prefer such services and hardcover books for those who prefer to hold books and stroll among book shelves.

New Apple Store

And speaking of Broadway Plaza, for all of those who love high-tech construction, construction of the muchanticipated new Apple store has begun.

It won’t be long before this one-of-akind building is completed. In addition, Broadway Plaza has commenced construction of phase 3 of their project.

We hope everyone takes the time to visit Broadway Plaza so they can see this beautiful project and enjoy the dining opportunities provided by the terrific new and existing restaurants. I love the lighting in the garage that shows available parking.

In-N-Out

Those who like hamburgers will be pleased to hear that In-N-Out Burger has submitted an application to build a restaurant in Walnut Creek. The proposed In-N-Out will be located at Second and North Main.

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april 2017 • ourcommunityfocus.com

Rich Carlston, Mayor of Walnut Creek

New Hotels

Business travelers, guests, and visitors will be pleased to hear that Walnut Creek will be the site of at least two new hotels, with the possibility of additional hotels in the not-too-distant future. Work is now beginning on a new Marriott Residence Inn, located within walking distance to the BART Station. A second hotel, located at the former McDonald’s site at N. California Boulevard, will be a unique concept hotel since it will have approximately 20 rooms contained within a mixed-use residential project.

For those who like to donate to Goodwill or shop at their stores, Walnut Creek will shortly be the home of a new high-end Goodwill facility that the company hopes will become a model for further expansion.

Upcoming Projects

For those seeking to live in Walnut Creek, we continue to process a number of multi-family projects within our downtown area. Additionally, we are informed that the Transit Village project at the Walnut Creek BART station will break ground on its first phase, the parking garage, this coming summer.

While traffic will clearly be impacted by these projects, we hope to minimize the inconvenience as best we can.

Finally, our senior population is looking forward to a new senior community in the Shadelands Business Park, consisting of approximately 190 units.

You can see that Walnut Creek keeps moving forward. We hope you can join us in enjoying and exploring the city for all it has to offer.

Public Meetings Design Review Meeting Apr. 5, 19 Council Chambers, 1666 North Main Street, 7pm. Contact: 943-5819 City Council Meeting Apr. 4, 18 Council Chambers, 1666 North Main Street, 6pm. Contact: 943-5819 City Council Special Meeting with Mt. Diablo Unified School District Apr. 10 Council Chambers, 1666 North Main Street, 5:30pm. Contact: 943-5819 Planning Commission Meeting Apr. 13, 27 Council Chambers, 1666 North Main Street, 7pm. Contact: 943-5819

General Contractor Lic#652185

For Confirmation Visit: www.walnut-creek.org

City of Walnut Creek

Walnut Creek City News Affordable Housing

At the March 7 city council meeting, Housing Program Manager Margot Ernst provided a housing and affordable housing overview. She discussed Walnut Creek affordability, existing and future city policies and programs, and alternate funding sources. City staff requested council feedback on prioritizing programs to address the city’s housing needs. Discussion included the need for community outreach, incentives to encourage construction of homes more affordable by design, anti-displacement strategies, and expedited review of affordable housing.

“We need to focus on outreach and educate the community that affordable housing is not going to decline their housing values, and it isn’t going to change how they live; it’s going to enrich our community. We need displacement strategies ready to go. We need to make sure our community takes care of those people who need that additional help,” said Councilmember Loella Haskew. Councilmember Kevin Wilk agreed and added, “Development is now the number one issue I hear from the public. I would like to see us, along with community outreach, look at expedited reviews and permitting for affordable housing and the private-public partnerships.”

Councilmember Cindy Silva added, “We are hearing a lot of push back about development and more housing; people don’t want it in their neighborhood....

That becomes a problem because it is just creating expensive housing and an environment where, at a macro level in this state, if we do not start building more housing, we are going to start to see the unraveling of the state’s economy.”

City News Continued the 8th Annual Authors Gala at the Walnut Creek Library. Join a “Lift-off Bash,” featuring local Bay Area authors, a silent auction, libations, and hors d’oeuvres.

Tickets for the reception are $75. All proceeds from the Authors Gala benefit essential programs, collections, and other needs for the Walnut Creek and Ygnacio Valley Libraries. Limited seating is available. Visit www.wclibrary.org/gala/ for tickets and additional information.

April is Earthquake Preparedness Month Get CERT Trained in April

Become a volunteer Disaster Service Worker for the City of Walnut Creek by taking the upcoming Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training.

CERT classes are a combination of lecture and hands-on training and include light search and rescue, disaster medical operations, and CERT team organization. Skills students learn include use of hand-held radios, when and how to shut off gas, and how to properly operate a fire extinguisher.

Walnut Creek CERT Basic Training classes will be held at City Hall starting on Wednesday, April 5, from 6:30-9:30pm. Classes run for seven consecutive Wednesdays, plus a Saturday morning drill on May 20 at Heather Farm Park.

Space is limited, and classes fill up quickly. There is a $25 program fee, payable the first day of class. Register online at www.walnut-creek.org and click on the “departments” tab and then “public safety.” Evening spring series: April 5 - May 17, 6:30-9:30 pm; Final Drill: Sat., May 20, 7:30am-2 pm, City Hall, 3rd floor conference room (open to all).

Approved Funding

City council approved funding in the amount of $566,719 for the Walnut Creek Police Department Body Worn Camera program. On November 1, 2016, the city council voted unanimously to implement a Body Worn Camera (BWC) program and equip all police officers in the department with BWCs. The funding includes the purchasing of cameras, modified staffing, and additional operating costs associated with the program.

Restaurant Week – April 23-30

Walnut Creek Restaurant Week is a culinary celebration of spectacular cuisine and wine at incredible prices. Entice your appetite and delight your palate with prix-fixe menus offered at over 30 restaurants. With cuisines that encompass American, Italian, Spanish, Turkish, Japanese, and Mexican (to name a few), experience why Walnut Creek has been called, “The East Bay’s most popular dining destination.” Experience a weeklong event throughout Walnut Creek’s vibrant and ever-growing culinary scene. No tickets, passes or coupons necessary. Visit www.walnutcreekdowntown.com for participating restaurants.

First Wednesdays Returns Get Ready for Mid-Week Motown on April 5 with the Project 4 Band.

Walnut Creek Downtown hosts Walnut Creek First Wednesdays Street Festivals for all ages each month, from April through October, on Cypress Street, from Main Street to Locust. Each First Wednesday offers live music, food trucks, and other community based vendors for the public’s enjoyment and to engage with downtown businesses. Festivities go from 5:30pm until 8:30pm and include beer and wine, arts and crafts, shopping, treats and more. Enjoy free parking after 5pm at participating garages: N. Locust Garage at 1625 Locust St.; S. Locust Garage at 1350 Locust St.; and N. Broadway Garage at 1390 N. Broadway.

We’re Hopping in April at WiseGirl!

Come Enjoy Our Live Entertainment!

Acoustic Thursdays 7:00pm – 10:00pm Friday & Saturday Full Bands 9:00pm – 12:00am Thurs. March 30 Acoustic Jangle

Fri. March 31st Radio Flyer Band

Sat. April 1 The New Frantics

Thurs. April 6 Bruce Brophy & Paul Trombetta

Fri. April 7 The Cruise Tones

Sat. April 8 Lumberyard

Thurs. April 13 Sin Silver

Fri. April 14 Fog 5 with Friends

Sat. April 15 TBA

Thurs. April 20 Lost Weekend

Fri. April 21 Kid Dynamite

Sat. April 22 Dream Posse

Thurs. April 27 Bruce Brophy & Paul Trombetta

Fri. April 28 Big Jangle

Sat. April 29 Von Trapps

Author’s Gala at the Library

On Saturday, April 22, you’re invited to an “Out of This World!” experience at ourcommunityfocus.com • april 2017

13

A Spin on DIY

Frugal Laundry Room Re-Do

BY REBECCA SEIDENSPINNER

Have you ever heard the saying, “Love grows best in small houses”? While I am not sure if this saying is exactly true, I do know that laundry multiplies quickly in a small house, and without a lot of space it can be very overwhelming. My laundry area happens to be in my kitchen. This is far better than downstairs in the basement, but when I have guests over they can see all of my clean or dirty laundry. I decided to freshen up my laundry area and turn it into a stylish space that is both fabulous and functional.

I set a budget of one hundred dollars. I started at Home Depot to pick out a paint color. I fell in love with Shark Fin Grey by Behr in eggshell. Eggshell paint isn’t flat or shiny; it’s in between and wipes clean easily. I also bought a piece of wood to use for a painted laundry sign and an

industrial style farmhouse light. I chose the color grey because it is neutral, and one day in the future when I remodel my dream kitchen, it will have white cabinets, concrete countertops, and subway tile. It will match perfectly with my new and improved laundry area. I moved the washer and dryer away from the wall but didn’t even have to unplug them. The endless laundry continued while I taped and painted around the existing washer and dryer as it was washing and spinning away.

Painting is one of the easiest and least expensive ways to update a space in your home. The key to painting is in the prep.

Using painter’s tape to tape the ceiling and edges of the walls leaves more room for mistakes. I painted the walls with two coats of paint and let it dry overnight before removing the painter’s tape. I painted the piece of wood white and then used my stencils to paint the word “Laundry” in black paint. This big wooden sign is going

to be the focal point of my new laundry area.

I asked my husband to hang the farmhouse light. (He’s very handy at home improvement projects, but he never puts his dirty clothes in the laundry basket.

I’m happy to do that in exchange for help with my projects.) Is it time to decorate yet? Almost. I went on an adventure to Target to purchase a rug, some steel laundry baskets, and a big Mason jar to hold my laundry pods. I bought a few hooks at Hobby Lobby a while ago to hang up my undergarments and attached them to an old piece of a pallet that I had outside in the garden. I added a plant and a steel basket on the windowsill. On my way out of Target, a tiny voice in my head told me to check out Home Goods, so I headed over and found a “mudroom” box.

The small laundry area in my kitchen also doubles as a mudroom. The back door exits to the garden, the chicken coop, and the yard for the big dog to play. This

Before

mudroom box is perfect for my boots.

My favorite part of any project is adding all of my final decorative touches.

I added a stool that I had on my porch next to the washer. I will sit on this stool to take off my muddy boots after feeding the chickens and locking them up at night. I found a rooster hook at Hobby Lobby to hang my egg apron on right next to the door. This space is now clean, cute, and functional for this farm girl.

Supplies: Paint: $24.99 Rug: $9.98 3 Baskets $24.00 Large Mason jar: $12.99 Cement planter and plant: $8.99 Wood for laundry sign: $10.00 Farmhouse industrial light: $30.00 Mudroom box: $14.99 TOTAL: $135.94

Oops. I went a bit over on my budget. But this is now my favorite space in the home.

After

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april 2017 • ourcommunityfocus.com

Here is a homemade recipe for a laundry spray that we use on our towels and sheets. It smells wonderful and clean.

• 2 cups distilled water • 4 ounces of rubbing alcohol • 40 drops of lavender essential oil

Add ingredients in a spray bottle.

Shake before using

Earn & Learn East Bay

Employers Give Young People Work-Based Learning Opportunities

BY MARK ORCUTT, CONTRA COSTA ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP

When Nilton Serva was released from his second juvenile incarceration, he was on the verge of homelessness. Then the Los Medanos College student was connected to Earn & Learn East Bay and earned an opportunity to work at Costco Wholesale. Throughout the course of his paid internship, he not only experienced his first job interview but also was inspired to continue his education and pursue a degree in business administration.

Two hundred business and education leaders gathered in Concord to celebrate employers engaged in Earn & Learn East Bay, which has provided thousands of work and learning opportunities to local youth since 2009.

“The secret to Earn & Learn East Bay’s success is the single point of contact for employers,” said Kristin Connelly, executive director of the Contra Costa Economic Partnership and a managing partner of the effort. The regional initiative connects employers with the East Bay’s many school districts and community colleges without requiring employers to coordinate with dozens of educators.

Bobby Ram, managing director of Sunpower Corporation, noted the retention problems that companies face when they rely on recruiting talent from around the globe rather than across the street.

“Earn & Learn East Bay is not just an investment in our young people’s future but an investment in our own business success,” said Ram.

That kind of leadership by local busi-

ness leaders provides life-changing experiences for local youth like Nilton Serva.

“One day I want to create companies that will be able to give opportunities to young people like Earn & Learn East Bay gave to me,” said Nilton.

Earn & Learn East Bay is a collaboration of the Contra Costa Economic Partnership and the Workforce Development Board of Contra Costa County with the Diablo Gateways to Innovation Consortium. www.earnlearneastbay.org.

Accepting Grant Proposals

NITY FO MU C M

US

CO

The Pleasant Hill Community Foundation is currently accepting grant proposals for its 2017 Community Grants. Proceeds from generous donors during our annual campaign provide the funding for these grant awards. Community based and public organizations that provide recreational, educational, and cultural services to the residents of Pleasant Hill are eligible to apply.

Grants Allocation Chair Betty Geishirt Cantrell states, “The Pleasant Hill Community Foundation is again very proud to be able to provide this opportunity to organizations across our city to provide funding for programs, equipment and resources.

We’ve been doing this strong for over 20 years!”

Applications may be downloaded from the Grants & Scholarships page of the foundation’s website at www.PHCommunityFoundation.org. A listing of prior community grant recipients is also available there. Any questions can be sent to info@ PHCommunityFoundation.org. The application deadline is April 15, 2017. Awards will be presented at our annual Celebrate Your Community event on May 16.

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Nilton Serva speaks about his Earn & Learn East Bay experience. Photo by Erin Brooks

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15

He’s Got it Covered

Congratulations to Alex Igoe, a 9th grader at College Park High School who has completed his Eagle Scout (Troop 221) project at the Pleasant Hill Instructional Garden (PHIG), building custom covers for PHIG’s 4-bin composting system. Covers help protect the bins from unauthorized use and moderate the moisture and temperature of compost curing in the bins. The covers match the redwood, are hinged to open halfway for Pleasant Hill Middle School students, and look beautiful! A&J Fencing donated the almost-new redwood lumber.

Alex Igoe and his completed Eagle Scout project at PHMS.

Principal’s Corner Appreciating the Falcon Family

JOSEPH G. ALVAREZ PRINCIPAL, COLLEGE PARK HIGH SCHOOL

For the first time ever, Mt. Diablo Unified will have a district-wide Creative Arts Honor Roll, driven by our very own Mr. Bruce Rockwell, director of College Park’s award-winning choir program. The idea for the arts honor roll is modeled after California’s prestigious Seal of Biliteracy Program, which recognizes students who have attained a high level of proficiency in speaking, reading, and writing in one or more languages in addition to English.

The Creative Arts Honor Roll will recognize and celebrate students who have taken creative arts courses and have been active participants and leaders in our campus arts programs and events. We are extremely excited about the opportunity this provides students and look forward to recognizing their hard work. (Applications and a fact sheet are available online.)

I’d like to congratulate two students who have been named finalists for the National Merit Scholarship Program, which recognizes and honors academically talented students across the country. Thomas A. McDowell and Maxwell

A. Morehead advanced to the finalist level by demonstrating a high potential for further academic accomplishment.

This is a fantastic distinction for two truly impressive young men.

We recently held our annual Human Rights Day assembly to consider the importance of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. We were gratified to have some excellent and thought-provoking presenters. It provided students the time and opportunity to think about our differences and to move from teaching tolerance to teaching acceptance for all.

Our thanks to social science teacher Joel Swett for organizing this special event.

The City of Pleasant Hill held its 46th Annual Community Awards event, which honors outstanding residents for their contributions to the community. We are very proud that senior Maggie McCoy was recognized as this year’s Teen of the Year for her extensive volunteer efforts at numerous events in Pleasant Hill, including Relay for Life and the Art, Jazz & Wine Festival. Last April, Maggie helped us organize the first Earth Day Community Service Day here at College Park.

I remain in awe at the tremendous Falcon spirit, community support and partnership, and parent and family engagement that make College Park High School a destination institution.

2015

THANKS TO OUR CUSTOMERS FOR VOTING US #1!

EXPIRES 4/30/17

2013 • 2014 • 2015 16

april 2017 • ourcommunityfocus.com

Principal’s Corner Career Pathways at Alhambra H.S. TOM DOPPE, PRINCIPAL, ALHAMBRA HIGH SCHOOL

It is a privilege to have this opportunity to share the great things going on at Alhambra. While our parent community regularly receives newsletters and sporting news, it is always to our benefit to share with the community as a whole.

In my columns this year, I want to highlight one aspect of our school in particular -- our career pathways. What is a career pathway? A career pathway is a program of study involving a multiyear sequence of courses that integrates academic knowledge with technical and occupational knowledge, providing students with a pathway to high-demand, high-opportunity, post-secondary education and careers.

The sequence of courses progressively builds content knowledge as well as work-based learning opportunities, culminating in the third course in the sequence, what we call the “capstone”

course. For example, in our Health and Medical Science pathway, students take Medical Biology, Medical Chemistry, and finally Public Health. In the Public Health course, students go out once a week to internships in the community and get first-hand experience working in the public health field.

To that end, the goal of each of our pathways is really to get students out into the community to have real-world experiences and authentic learning. We are always looking for new opportunities to partner with businesses and the community.

In the coming months, I will highlight in greater detail each of the pathways: Health and Medical Science, Engineering and Advanced Manufacturing, Digital Media Arts, and Computer Science. In the meantime, our school website is filled with information about each of these pathways and what the sequence of courses is for students.

Please check out www.alhambrahigh. org or email me directly at tdoppe@ martinez.k12.ca.us. Go Dogs!

High School News College Park Earth Day Event

An Earth Day event is scheduled at College Park High School on Saturday, April 22, 10am-3pm. All members of the community are welcome to attend. College Park junior Maggie McCoy said, “This year it will be bigger and better! There will be organizations running booths in order to spread information as well as host activities that may benefit their organization, and food will be sold to support College Park.” Students will be collecting clothing and books in decent condition for donation as well as old T-shirts, which will be turned into dog toys for animal shelters.

Annual Garage Sales

Northgate’s Annual Garage Sale happens on April 22, from 7am-3pm, at the NHS parking lot. You can find gently used furniture, books, clothes, toys, sporting equipment, and other items.

College Park Boys Lacrosse Yard Sale will be held April 21 and 22, from 8am-4pm at 306 Brandon Court in Pleasant Hill.

College Park Musicians Head to Washington, DC

College Park musicians will be traveling to Washington, DC, on April 5 for a series of performances. Approximately 69 concert band and wind ensemble students will be travelling along with 8 chaperones. Students will be staying in Arlington, Virginia, and use charter buses to travel while in DC. The trip will include a performance in the capital, a university clinic, and a high school exchange, along with learning about the rich history of Washington, DC.

High School Performances

Spring Musical at Alhambra

Alhambra High School’s spring musical at the Performing Arts building is Urinetown the Musical, winner of 3 Tony Awards. Urinetown is a sidesplitting send-up of greed, love, revolution (and musicals!) in a time when water is worth its weight in gold. Caution: the show is rated PG-13. Show dates are Wednesday – Saturday, April 26 - 29, 7pm curtain. Tickets: Adults $15 and Students/Seniors $10.

Carondelet and DLS Company’s Macbeth

As part of this year’s Winton Arts Festival, Carondelet and De La Salle’s Company presents Shakespeare’s Macbeth. This classic tale of paranoia and political ambition is one of Shakespeare’s most influential works. Performances at the Brother Celestine Cormier FSC Theatre at De La Salle begin on March 30 and continue through Saturday, April 8. There will also be some special faculty cameos during the Thursday, April 6 performance. To purchase tickets, visit: prepmo.com/events/171, or visit the De La Salle bookstore.

Harlem Wizards Event at Northgate

The Harlem Wizards are coming to Northgate High School on Sunday, April 30, at 1pm. The twohour show promises to be a fun-filled event, great for kids and adults and guaranteed to put a smile on your face! Fans will experience a magical display of tricks, ball handling, fancy passing, and aerodynamic athleticism combined with high-energy comedy and audience interaction. Hosted

by John F. Kennedy University Sport Psychology Department, the event will benefit the Solt Evans LEAP Program & Northgate Athletics. Tickets purchased before the event are $18 for students, $22 for general admission. For tickets, go to: harlemwizards.thundertix.com/events/100975. If still available, tickets can also be purchased on game day at the door: $20 for students, $25 general admission.

Jim Hodge Memorial Concert April 18

A fundraising concert honoring the memory of long-time College Park Band Director Jim Hodge will be held April 18, at 7pm in the College Park MU. Hodge retired in 2004 after 31 years at College Park. Tickets: $10 and $5 for students, staff or seniors. All proceeds go to the Jim Hodge Memorial Scholarship Fund. Have a memory or photo of Mr. Hodge to share?

Please contact cpimb.falcons@gmail.com.

Alhambra Film Fest

Alhambra Film Fest is coming May 12! Judges will be Mr. Wiener, Mr. Reichert, Ms. Fairfield and Mr. Hussey, and they will be critiquing and giving out academy awards for the best short film participants. More details coming in the May Community Focus.

Public Hearings for NCAPS

On February 22, Northgate CAPS announced they presented a 6,137-signature petition to the county superintendent of schools. The original goal was 4,946 signatures, or 25% of registered voters in the proposed NUSD area. On March 25, Northgate CAPS announced the petition passed. The county superintendent “determined the sufficiency of the petition,” thereby certifying that NCAPS had gathered enough signatures to move forward. In the next phase, the Contra Costa County Board of Education will review the request and hold public hearings to determine if an independent school district is viable according to the state’s nine criteria. The public hearings are scheduled for May 2 and May 3. ourcommunityfocus.com • april 2017

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Roseville Invite Success

Undefeated Bulldogs

College Park swim team participated in the Roseville Invitational on March 10 and 11 and was one of 22 competitive teams with1100 swimmers competing. The Falcons placed 4th overall with 988.5 points just behind 3rd place Oak Ridge High School with 1042 points. For the fourth consecutive year, the Falcons brought home the coveted Team Sportsmanship/Spirit Award. Submitted by Kathy Kaminek.

Alhambra’s freshmen boys basketball team went undefeated in league this year, clearly dominating every team they matched. Many of the Bulldogs’ games were won by 10 to 20 baskets. Alhambra basketball looks to have some successful seasons in the coming years. Photo submitted by Karen Gray.

Falcons Set Record

The College Park frosh/soph medley relay placed first and also broke a record with a time of 1:57.13. Members of the relay team are all freshmen and include: Camilla Schumacher, Lucy Dajani, Tay Thomas, and Sammi Monroe. Taylor Thomas also placed first in the100 fly with a time of 1:00.94, a meet record, and first in the 50 back with a time of 29.28, another meet record. Submitted by Kathy Kaminek.

Falcons poolside at Roseville Invitational. Photo by Laura Bastin.

Lady Falcons relay, Camilla Schumacher, Lucy Dajani, Tay Thomas, and Sammi Monroe. Photo by Laura Bastin.

Headed to SJSU

Adrian Ortiz, a Northgate senior and All-League Defensive MVP for the Diablo Athletic League, signed his National Letter of Intent to play soccer at San Jose State next year. Ortiz was a four-year varsity starter.

Head coach Steve Chappell told the Community Focus, “In my 11 years at Northgate and six as the varsity head coach, Adrian is the best player I’ve seen wear a Bronco jersey. He’s an excellent student athlete with a 4.0 GPA, making him a North Coast Section Scholar Athlete, and was our captain this past season. Adrian’s on-field strengths include his vision and read of the game, technical ability, and winning challenges, either in tackles or in the air with his head. He’s the most complete player I’ve ever coached - high school or youth soccer.”

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Northgate senior Adrian Ortiz. Photo submitted

by Steve Chappell

Diablo Athletic League All League Fall 2016-2017 SOCCER Girls Foothill Division Most Valuable Player Haley Brown Las Lomas Co-Most Valuable Offensive Player Katelyn Beasley Las Lomas Julia Rossi Campolindo Most Valuable Defensive Player Nicki Rucki Alhambra 1st Team All-League: Kelsey Thompson, LL; Kelsi Schacht, LL; Victoria Scalfaro, LL; Samantha Devecchi, MIRA; Morgan Johnson, MIRA; Sarah Emigh ALH; Chloe Taylor, ALH; Marianna Giovannetti, CP; Lindsey Easter, CAMPO; Emily Smith, ACA 2nd Team All-League: Natalia Leroux, CP; Uki Fujiwara, LL; Camryn Ernest, LL; Mackenzie Patterson, LL; Mia Grillo, MIRA; Olivia Grillo, MIRA; Mariah Brown, CAMPO; Devon Ortman, CAMPO; Carly Agostino, ALH; Lindsey Alford, ALH; Callie Erickson, ACA Honorable Mention: Anna Le-Nguyen, MIRA; Kendell Roberts, MIRA; Gabby Ortale, MIRA; Savvannah DeCarlo, CAMPO; Molly Ikeya, CAMPO; Nicole Huebner, CAMPO; Jasmine Safarians, CP; Jena Moran, CP; Rylee McCormick, CP; Jane Kisylia, LL; Kari Lewis, LL; Sophia Runter, LL; Sam Pearson, ALH; Jenna Coffman, ALH; Katie Christman, ALH; Kierra Krawec, ALH; Allison Merril, ACA; Caroline Clark, ACA Girls Valley Division Co-Most Valuable Player Madalina Chaney Ygnacio Valley Julia Hagedorn Northgate Most Valuable Offensive Player Taylor Chaplin Northgate Most Valuable Defensive Player Rylie Pearson Concord 1st Team All-League: Katie Hollister, NG; Carly Ortega, NG; Rochelle Arnold, NG; Lizzie Annison, CVC; Sierra Bruni, CVC; Samantha Gotz, BC; Molly Kolander, BC; Kalina Campos, YV; Karla Santamaria, YV; Alyssa Granados, CON; Viviana Ramirez, MD 2nd Team All-League: Skylar Ramer, NG; Payton Mannie, NG; Sarah Freed, NG; Kaci Trujillo, CVC; Cassie Bizicki, CVC; Adelle Meyer, CON; Sarah Chay, BC; Elizabeth Dutton, BC; Megan Clifton, YV; Ana Cabarez, YV; Daniela Estrada, MD Honorable Mention: Hunter Kenney, NG; Lauren Conley, NG; Mikayla Ducey, NG; Savannah Christopher, CON; Samantha Hernandez,

CON; Vanessa Hawley, CON; Chrystina Heuerman, CVC; Sarah Cook, CVC; Olivia Kreamer, CVC; Megan Maloney, BC; Isabel Dumapit, BC; Hannah Thompson, BC; Stefania Villanueva-Castillo, YV; Andrea Santamaria, YV; Yaznelly Martinez, YV; Michelle Cisneros, MD; Lissette Cortez, MD; Nayeli Martinez, MD SOCCER Boys Foothill Division Most Valuable Player Justin Bedig College Park Most Valuable Offensive Player Jonathan Negrete Ygnacio Valley Most Valuable Defensive Player Adrian Ortiz Northgate 1st Team All-League: Tim Weidinger, LL; Ben Borglin, LL; Pedro Hernandez, CVC; Taylor Huerman, CVC; Zachary Lamb, NG; Pepe Diaz, YV; Jairo Alas, YV; Oscar Mendez, YV; Rupert Dusauzay, CAMPO; Seppi Ortman, CAMPO; Sean Roarty, CP; Dylan Ban, CP 2nd Team All-League: Grant Darling, LL; Parsa Majbuleh, LL; Nick Giannini, NG; Erick Ochoa, YV; Ramiro Andrade, YV; John Zazueta, YV; Matty Ringquist, CAMPO; Kai Weyland, CAMPO; Rene Alvarado, CP; Jack Railton, CP; Angel Solis, CVC; Austin Ramirez, CVC Honorable Mention: Josh Marquez, LL; Nick Cerdan, LL; Andrew Reese, LL; Ryan Roo, NG; Grant McCargar, NG; Andrew Rinella, NG; Alex Lopez, YV; Danny Sanchez, YV; Alan Herrera, YV; Jose Carra Hernandez, CAMP; Vivek Lashkari, CAMPO; Solomon Dusauzay, CAMPO; Aidan Mastrogiorgio, CP; Kris King, CP; Christian Caryl, CP; Hirisian Tasev, CVC; Jesus Martinez, CVC; Kellen Dresdow, CVC Boys Valley Division Most Valuable Player Sergio Barba Concord Most Valuable Offensive Player Drew Wondolowski Acalanes Co-Most Valuable Defensive Player Sam Pinto Miramonte Marvin Navarro-Ceja Concord 1st Team All-League: Gabe Singer, ACA; Bryan Bamford, ACA; Chris Rogers, ACA; Edilsar MelendresGomes, CON; Roberto Barahona, CON; Jack Fuller, ALH; Corey Drevno, ALH; Jack Sodergren, BC; Aryan Hissan, MD; Ben Hodder, MIRA; Michael Ramirez, MIRA 2nd Team All-League: Payson Newman, ACA; Alex Topping, ACA; Mark Von Hacht, ACA; Lucien Gerhardt, CON; Luis Soto, CON; Nick Silva,

ALH; Hunter Bradford, ALH; Damon Amerine, BC; Adrian Canedo, MD; William Knox, MIRA; William Stenzel, MIRA Honorable Mention: Oliver Feigin, ACA; Luke Denham, ACA; Brody Quinn, ACA; Enrique Guzman, CON; Nick Armstrong, CON; Juan Hernandez Lares, CON; Luca Argast, MIR; Conor Roemer, MIR; Nicholas Rovetti, MIR; Andrew Olvera, ALH; Robert Viano, ALH; Reagan Cole, ALH; Salvadar Placencia, Mt.D; Jonathan Gonzalez, Mt. D; Cesar Jaime, Mt. D; Nick Groswold, BC. BASKETBALL Girls Foothill Division Most Valuable Player Haley Van Dyke Campolindo 1st Team All-League: Elle Louie, MIRA; Ashley Thoms, CAMPO; Emma Godfrey, ACA; Brooke Panfili, ACA; Clair Steele, MIRA 2nd Team All-League: Jordan Bryant, MIRA; Veronica Marrowe, ACA; Jessi O’Reilly, CAMPO; Aubrey Wagner, CAMPO; Rebecca Welsh, MIRA Honorable Mention: Mei-Lin Bruder, CP; Megan Downing, CP; Julia Gamez, NG; Emily Huston, MIRA; Grace McGuire, CAMPO; Alejandra Ruiz, LL; Kelsey Rumbaugh, CP; Lauren Kobashigawa, ACA; Erin Tarasow, MIRA; Kailey Meyer, CAMPO Girls Valley Division Most Valuable Player Ciara O’Kelley Concord 1st Team All-League: Kelly Osterkamp, CVC; Macy Woodworth, BC; Jessica Solis, CON; Bridget Hyland, CVC; Karissa Wiebalk, ALH 2nd Team All-League: Aliza Roland, YV; Saelym Schmidt, ALH; Lani Lara, ALH; Kat Segovia, CVC; Alyssa Pluth, CON Honorable Mention: Kylie Chen, BC; Hannah Kommer, CVC; Jade Davis, CVC; Daniele Maestri, BC; Alexa Sotto, MD; Isela Garcia, YV Kaylee Pond, ALH; Abby Brown, ALH; Franchesca Calagui, CON; Gaby Lomeli, CON; Auxanna Buegre, YV BASKETBALL Boys Foothill Division Most Valuable Player Devin Payne Las Lomas 1st Team All-League: Robert Prince, LL; Jesse Marlow, ACA; Charlie Hocking, MIRA; Tanner Wallace, LL; Hunter Clarke, CAMPO 2nd Team All-League: Chris Wright, CAMPO; Raazhel Watkins,

CP; Mitchell Smith, ACA; Will Cummins, CAMPO; Miles Beaubelle, MIRA Honorable Mention: Ryan Nall, ACA; Peter Michiels, NG; Jason Holman, LL; Nick Lombardi, CP; Anthony Haslett, LL; Zyon Pullin, CP; Alex Schaufler, NG; Nick Foster, MIRA Boys Valley Division Co-Most Valuable Player Garrett Pascoe Clayton Valley Nick Klarman Clayton Valley 1st Team All-League: Jason Glenn, MD; Thomas McDonald, ALH; Vince Lontz, CVC; Josh Lunsford, BC; Christian Pitcher, BC 2nd Team All-League: Jeff Williams, CVC; Jordan Eglite, ALH; Ben Moore, CON; Jaden Watt, BC; Spencer Tamichi, CVC Honorable Mention: Nick Becker, CVC; Luke Brown, ALH; Wyatt Hammer, ALH; De’Andre Morgan, CON Pouyan Hagighat, YV; Elizurita Haber, YV; George Udo, BC WRESTLING DAL All-League 1st Team All-League Gustav Petruske, CP; Marco Ruffinelli, LL; Antonio Margiotta, LL; Josiah Monjaras, CP; Tai White, ACA; Nicholas Bossert, LL; Jeremy Ridge, ACA; Skylar Wright, MIRA; Axel Jurgens, ACA; Maxwell Fleming, MIRA; Connor Aiello, LL; Ryan Fischer, CVC; Skylar Morford, NG; Andy DeLira, CVC 2nd Team All-League Jake Gaitan, LL; Nathan Sutton, NG; Cole Sanchez, NG; Christian Utne, CVC; Cormick Hamilton, NG; Owen Madaus, MIRA; Temuujin Ulzii-Orshikh, LL; Nathan Meintz, CP; Gabe Lomas, CP; Grant Chachere, NG; Joseph Rodondi, CP; Razvan Minalache, CP; Brandon West, ALH; MacGregor Douglass, BC Honorable Mention Gabe Navarro, CVC; Keichi Serrano Palacios, CAMPO; Daniel Karas, CP; Gage Mettler, NG; Iaroslav Titov, LL; Ben Ross, ACA; Fabian Garcia, ALH; Juan Pablo Wilson, CVC; Jaxon Pandelis, NG; Ben Acebo, CVC; Donelson Berger, MIRA; Oscar Solis, YV; Eric Karras, CP; Jeremiah Purdy, LL School Abbreviations: ACA: Acalanes; ALH: Alhambra; BC: Berean Christian; CAMPO: Campolindo; CON: Concord; CP College Park; CVC Clayton Valley Charter; LL: Las Lomas; MD: Mount Diablo; MIRA: Miramonte; NG: Northgate; YV: Ygnacio Valley

ourcommunityfocus.com • april 2017

19

Martinez Awards

Read My Mind

The Martinez Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce recipients for the 2016 Citizen of the Year Awards.

Lifetime Achievement: Gay Gerlack

Gay Gerlack is a member of the board of directors of Main Street Martinez, Martinez Historical Society, Martinez Early Childhood Center, Central County Homeless Outreach, John Muir Association, Friends of the Martinez Library, Kiwanis Club of Martinez, and the Martinez Arts Association. She has served on the board of the Martinez Parks, Recreation, Marina and Cultural Commission and helped create the successful campaign to pass Measure H in 2008. She belongs to Kiwanis, Soroptimist and Lioness and serves as a director on the Martinez Chamber of Commerce board.

Woman of the Year: Candice Gliatto

Candice Gliatto is the owner of Citrus Salon, a Main Street Martinez board member, and chair and treasurer of the Main Street Economic Vitality Committee.

Man of the Year: Mike Beck

Mike Beck has served on the MEF board, is a key member of MEF Run for Education Committee, and is involved with National Night Out, MEF Family Fun Night, PTA Leadership Council for MUSD and Shell/MUSD Annual Essay Contest.

Young Man of the Year: Jason Frost

Jason Frost, an Alhambra Valedictorian, is captain of Tieni Duro Junior Cycling

BY MICHAEL G. HARRIS, OD

What does it take to make a great novel? It must tell a first-rate story and have a plot that keeps you engaged. It needs characters you really care about. It must be written in a way that entices and stimulates the reader. With this in mind, here are four of 2016’s best novels.

Ruth Ware’s novel The Woman in Cabin 10 has an intriguing plot. Travel journalist Lo Blacklock gets ”the assignment of a lifetime,” a trip on the maiden voyage of a luxury cruise ship in the North Sea. The ship is beautiful.

The passengers are elegant. The food is delicious. The drinks are plentiful. And it’s all free! What could go wrong? Well, things change rapidly when Lo meets her mysterious neighbor in Cabin 10, a young woman wearing a Pink Floyd T-shirt. Later that night, Lo is awakened by strange noises in Cabin 10 and hears what she thinks is a body being dumped overboard. But when the crew investigates, they find Cabin 10 empty and clean as a whistle. All passengers and crew are accounted for. Did Lo imagine what she saw and heard? The plot has many twists and turns as Lo tries to figure out whom she might’ve seen and finds her own life in jeopardy. Alfred Hitchcock would be proud!

In previous novels like The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay and Wonder Boys, Pulitzer prize-winning author Michael Chabon has shown a mastery of using the English language to tell totally convincing fiction. Much as I liked these books, I couldn’t stand several of his others, including Gentlemen of the Road and Telegraph Avenue.

So, it was with some reluctance that I started reading his semi-biographical novel Moonglow.

I wasn’t disappointed. This is a powerful story of a grandfather’s life as told to his grandson, the book’s narrator.

Citizen of the Year Awards Announced Team, does tutoring, volunteers for Shell/ MEF Run for Education and Downtown Clean-up Day, and coordinated the Mock Election at Alhambra High School.

Young Woman of the Year: Shelby Bolton

Shelby Bolton, a senior at Vicente High School, is president of Leadership, participated in Downtown Clean-up Days and Coastal Clean-ups, and presented at the Earn and Learn awards ceremony. She arranged a field trip for a group to pick out free prom dresses.

Educator/Teacher of the Year: Michele Roche

Mrs. Roche is a 5th grade teacher at John Swett Elementary. She is a passionate educator that encourages hands-on learning, independent thinking, and collaboration.

Service Without Borders: David Rich

David Rich is an active historian in writing and cataloging the history of all 117 years of Alhambra High School and has chaired three reunions for the class of 1973.

Join the Martinez Chamber of Commerce at the Citizen of the Year Awards Banquet on Saturday, April 15, 6-9pm, at the Masonic Hall, 700 Masonic Street, Martinez. Reservations available through Monday, April 10, $55 per person, tables of ten are $500. Call (925) 228-2345 or email julie@martinezchamber.com.

MUSD Teacher of the Year

Martinez Unified honored its Teacher of the Year nominees at the February 27 board meeting. Congratulations to all of these amazing teachers, and special recognition to Julie Quinn who will be representing MUSD at the county level. Honorees are: Mary Ann Bode - Martinez Early Intervention Preschool; Nancy Kenyon - John Muir Elementary; Renee Lopez - John Swett Elementary; Claire Reidenbach - Morello Park Elementary; Julie Quinn - Las Juntas Elementary; Anne Martin - Martinez Jr. High School; Amy Yunis Alhambra High School; and Paula Marchese-Caccamo - Vicente Martinez High Schools

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Best Novels of 2016

Rockets and the possibility of flying to the moon always fascinated Grandfather, an engineer by trade. In World War II, he searched for the German scientists who invented the V2 rocket so they would not fall into the hands of the Soviet Union. This is just one of the amazing and well-told tales of his life in this masterpiece.

Chabon’s prose is always compelling and challenging. Every word he uses is there for a reason. If you’re a speed-reader like me, you must slow down to truly enjoy the magic of his pen. For example, he describes a flying bomb lying “jammed into a frozen pond like a cigar butt into the sand of an ashtray.” Quite a picture, and quite a novel!

Colson Whitehead’s The Underground Railroad tells the story of Cora and Caesar’s escape from slavery in Georgia in an attempt to gain freedom.

As they head north and are pursued by a slave catcher, they witness all of the horrors of slavery and the Civil War. Told with “brute realism and fable-like allegory,” this story is “essential to our understanding of the American past and the American present.”

And don’t miss Amor Towles’ A Gentleman In Moscow. This is the delightful story of Russian Count Alexander Rostov, who is living the life of luxury in a suite at Moscow’s magnificent Metropol Hotel. Everything changes in 1922, when he is sentenced to house arrest in the hotel’s tiny attic for writing an anti-Soviet poem. Rostov makes the most of his 30-year confinement by befriending guests and staff alike. He shows that “real class has nothing to do with money; it’s predicated on the kind of moral discipline that never goes out of style.” I’m glad I met Count Rostov in this beautifully written tale. You’ll be glad too!

ourcommunityfocus.com • april 2017

21

Sunday Funday

Learning About our Friends in the Big Blue

BY DR. LOUISA ASSEO

Last month, the team of Oasis Veterinary Hospital embarked on what I hope will become an annual spring event, “Sunday Funday.”

Thankfully, the rain had stopped long enough for us to enjoy some fresh air and a nice lunch overlooking the ocean in the company of our fun and compassionate teammates.

As our hearts and minds never stray too far from our animal friends, we journeyed to find some different ones to learn about. This year, our destination was the Marine Mammal Center in Sausalito. The tour led us through most of their facilities and afforded us the

opportunity of seeing how this hospital and rehabilitation center has helped over 20,000 marine animals since its opening in 1975.

I think most of us would agree that the highlight of the day was seeing the juvenile elephant seals. Their cacophonous sounds resonated throughout the center and lured us to their spotless clear pools, where we had the opportunity of seeing numerous babies basking in the sun nearby. Most of these babies were brought in emaciated and abandoned or stranded from getting washed away in a storm. The babies are rescued, assessed for injuries and diseases that need attention, then fed until they are fat and happy and ready to be released back to the big blue.

Aside from saving stranded seal

pups, the center is also very active in scientific studies of diseases. We learned that native California sea lions are having an emergence of a type of cancer that has become very prevalent in the native population. Through the center’s research efforts, we now know that an individual’s genetic makeup, environmental factors, and a viral trigger cause this cancer. The center is studying this cancer and the factors contributing to its proliferation in hopes of helping to curb the spread of this disease to more wild sea lions. Interestingly, their efforts are also helping human medicine scientists.

These studies in sea lions act as a human model to understand the development of certain cancers found in people. Not only are they studying why some animals are developing tumors and others are not, but they are also evaluating individual environmental and genetic factors

that help predict which animals (or in the future, which people) may be at a higher risk for developing certain cancers.

The center is helping animals we share our world with, and in turn, these animals help us learn about and help ourselves. What a beautifully orchestrated world we live in! I hope you all have a happy and healthy spring.

Dr. Louisa Asseo, owner of Oasis Veterinary Hospital, can be reached at (925) 954 – 8087, 6635 Alhambra Ave, Suite 100, Martinez, or visit oasisveterinaryhospital. com.

Oasis Veterinary Hospital proudly sponsors the

PET ADOPTION CONNECTION www.ourcommunityfocus.com

Long Term Care

Oasis Staff at the Marine Mammal Center

Special Event, Aviation & Adventure Photographer in Pleasant Hill, CA

San Francisco Bay Area photographer, Susan Wood chases light from land, sea & sky, delivering high quality images to corporate and non-profit clients, families, and individuals. Shooting with passion and high energy, her ability to “capture the moment” shines through in the wide variety of photographs she delivers.

2015

(925) 939-7060 | SusanWoodPhotography.com | susanwoodphoto@hotmail.com 22

april 2017 • ourcommunityfocus.com

BY COLLEEN CALLAHAN

This month I have had experiences with three different clients related to long-term care and, more specifically, dementia claims. Only one person had completed preliminary planning. Obtaining the correct type of care requires a great deal of time and energy from healthy family members.

Unexpected time away from work and family causes stress for relatives who step in to help. They have to interview care agencies, evaluate assisted living facilities, attend doctor appointments, and try to convince the sick relative to accept recommended care.

I learned that insurance companies process these claims differently, and it is not easy to navigate. Those seeking information about care providers and levels of care are learning a new language and must make quick decisions, all while trying to understand details about the progression of the disease.

Family members are forced to address unrealistic wishes of those with dementia. Some are faced with helping from hundreds or thousands of miles away.

I recently delivered a long-term care insurance policy to a new client.

After assisting briefly with claims, the value of the product was made all the more apparent. Care is expensive, and people must plan for help at home or in a facility. Policies offer care coordination benefits, home modification, and monitoring services, in addition to helping with the cost of a caregiver. It is commonly understood now that it is not a matter of if a person will need care; it is a question of when. There has been stabilization in the pricing of long-term care insurance. I suggest people take a careful look. Ask your CPA. There might be a tax benefit, too; after all, it is tax season!

Colleen Callahan, CLU, CASL, LUTCF. Colleen Callahan Insurance Services is located in Pleasant Hill. Contact her 925.363.5433 or ccallahan@ callahaninsurance.com.

As Russ Sees It Seriously?

BY RUSSELL CARROLL Warning: This article may cause drowsiness and nausea. Do not read this article while operating heaving machinery. If you read this article for more than four hours, seek medical attention. This article has been known to cause laughter in certain individuals.

Maybe it’s just my twisted sense of humor and thought process, but some warning labels and disclaimers are downright funny. Let me share a few of my favorites:

On a Razor scooter there is a label that reads: “This product moves when used.” No kidding. Does someone buy a Razor scooter and expect it not to move?

On a sink clog remover it reads: “If you don’t understand these directions or cannot read, do not use this product.”

Well, your Honor, I cannot read, so I didn’t

understand the directions.

On a bottle of dog pills from the vet it reads: “Do not drive a car while using this medication.” There goes my ride home.

On a cigarette lighter it reads: “Caution, contents are flammable.” There’s a shocker. Maybe it’s safer to rub two sticks together?

One of my favorites is a chain saw warning label that reads: “Do not hold the wrong end of the chainsaw.” Wow…. I have no comment.

A shower scrub brush reads: “Do not use for personal hygiene.” Okay, never crossed my mind, but thanks for the heads up.

A vending machine label reads: “Do not rock or tilt this machine. This machine will not dispense free items.” Well, I don’t want anything free, I just want my Doritos that are stuck and won’t fall. I am rocking this thing. I want my bag of chips.

Apple’s website states: “Do not eat iPod shuffle.”“I’ve Got the Music in Me” is

stuck in my head.

On the back of a lottery ticket there is this statement: “Do not iron.” No wonder I haven’t won.

A rub-on flea medication warns: “May cause diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss, and could cause death.” Shoot, I was just trying to kill fleas, not my pet.

A curling iron warns: “For external use only.” I don’t even know what to say

here.

I have to say my all-time favorite is from a major pharmaceutical company whose in-box directions for a rectal thermometer reads: “ Every rectal thermometer is personally tested and then sanitized.” Wow, so for all of us that wake up hating our jobs, this may make us feel better. Maybe it’s not so bad after all.

But…that’s just how I see it.

JENNIFER L. MARTIN, D.D.S. Specialist in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics

2015

401 GREGORY LANE, SUITE 126 PLEASANT HILL, CA 94523 925.676.8485 FAX 925.676.0288 www.drjennifermartin.com

PLEASANT HILL YMCA Memberships Just Got Better!

IRVIN DEUTSCHER FAMILY YMCA

350 Civic Drive Pleasant Hill CA

T: 925-687-8900 www.IDFYMCA.org ourcommunityfocus.com • april 2017

23

Pair Up

Everything is Coming Up Rosés

BY MARIA TERRY

After months of rain, the sun has returned to California.

Hooray! It’s time for flowers, sunshine, and pretty pink wine.

Pink wines come from many different places in the world and can be made from a variety of grapes. They range from very sweet to bone dry and from barely pink to light red. Generally, they are not aged in oak and have red fruit flavors like strawberry and raspberry. They are best served very cold and are the perfect refreshment on a balmy spring day. Choose your favorite style of rosé to go with Rosemary Flatbread with Blue Cheese, Grapes, and Honey. This delicious starter will transport you to a hillside overlooking the beautiful vineyards of your favorite California wine region. The sweet grapes contrast the pungent blue cheese, and a drizzle of honey brings it all together. The salty flavor of the cheese will highlight any sweetness in the wine.

Or, if you choose a drier wine, the snappy acidity will cleanse your palate from the fat in the cheese.

Whether you like them sweeter or drier, rosés can be made three ways. In the first method, a winemaker allows the juice to sit with its skins for a short period

Rosemary Flatbread with Blue Cheese, Grapes and Honey

of time, absorbing a touch of the color from the skins into the clear juice. This usually results in a lighter colored wine.

Second, a winemaker blends red and white wines together, creating the exact taste and color desired. Lastly, a winemaker runs off some of the juice from a red wine early in the fermentation process. The winemaker gets two benefits from this technique. The wine that is left behind is intensely flavored and colored.

The wine that is removed is a bonus wine.

It is called saignée, from the French word for bleeding. As expected, saignées tend to be darker in color because they start out as red wines. They are usually very flavorful and fuller in body than the other two styles. For these reasons, saignée is a great choice for Grilled Lamb Chops with Herbs. The extra flavor stands up to the gamey chops and pungent herbs. Plus, the fuller body matches the density of the meat.

Finish the evening with a rustic

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april 2017 • ourcommunityfocus.com

Italian Strawberry Tart (recipe can be found at www.LaSommelierre.com). The fruit pressed into dough will feel like a bookend to your starter. Choose a slightly sweet pink sparkler to pair with this nottoo-sweet dessert. The strawberry flavor and color in the wine are spot on with the tart. Together they will be a delightful end to your day in the sun.

So, go on. Pair Up!

Maria Terry is a Certified Sommelier and Wine Educator in the San Francisco Bay Area. www.LaSommelierre.com

Grilled Lamb Chops with Herbs INGREDIENTS 2 large garlic cloves, crushed 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary leaves 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves Pinch cayenne pepper Coarse sea salt 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 6 lamb chops, about 3/4-inch thick DIRECTIONS In a food processor fitted with a metal blade, add the garlic, rosemary, thyme, cayenne, and salt. Pulse until combined.

Pour in olive oil and pulse into a paste.

Rub the paste on both sides of the lamb chops and let them marinate for at least one hour in the refrigerator. Remove from refrigerator and allow the chops to come to room temperature; it will take about 20 minutes.

Grill chops on BBQ or grill pan over high heat for about 2 minutes. Cook on the other side for another 3 minutes for medium-rare and 3 1/2 minutes for medium.

Yield: 6 Chops

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INGREDIENTS 1 envelope active dry yeast 2 tablespoons sugar 2 cups bread flour, plus more for rolling 3/4 cup warm water 2 teaspoons chopped rosemary 1/2 teaspoon fine salt 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper 1/2 pound red grapes (1 1/2 cups) Coarse sea salt 3 ounces blue cheese, crumbled (1/2 cup) 1 tablespoon honey 1 tablespoon snipped chives DIRECTIONS In a large bowl, whisk the yeast and sugar with 1/4 cup of the flour. Stir in 1/4 cup of the warm water and let stand until slightly foamy, about 5 minutes. Add the rosemary, fine salt, pepper, and the remaining 1 3/4 cups of flour and 1/2 cup of water; stir until a dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured work surface and knead until smooth, about 5 minutes. Transfer the dough to an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a draft-free spot until billowy and doubled in bulk, about 1 hour.

Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 450°.

Place a pizza stone in the bottom of the oven, and preheat for at least 30 minutes.

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured work surface. Press and stretch the dough into a 13-inch round, then transfer to a lightly floured pizza peel. Press the grapes into the dough and sprinkle with sea salt.

Slide the flatbread onto the hot stone and bake for about 12 minutes, until the crust is golden and the grapes have begun to release some of their juices. Sprinkle the blue cheese on top and bake for about 2 minutes longer, until the cheese melts.

Slide the flatbread onto a work surface and drizzle with the honey and sprinkle with the chives.

Yield: 4 servings

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Happiness is a Hillcrest Dog ✔Non-chocolate doggie eggs. ✔A new hat. ✔Short toenails. ✔Vaccinations up-to-date.

Could I be any happier ?

Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital Zachary J. Anderson, DVM Terri Lamp, DVM Joseph A. Thibedeau, DVM 2211 Morello Avenue Pleasant Hill, CA 94523 925-676-1909 www.hillcrestvet.com

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ourcommunityfocus.com • april 2017

25

In the Mix

Here Comes the Sun

BY PAUL COTRUVO

“April come she will/When streams are ripe and swelled with rain.” ~ Paul Simon

Spring season is upon us, folks. It is a time of rebirth and revival, full of new possibilities. What better way to welcome in spring than with songs that capture this feeling of new beginnings.

Music is the one thing that can always draw me back to childhood days or capture the mood I am in at any given moment. Not to sound too preachy, but there is something spiritual about the power of songs. My friend Mark Stanley wrote a beautiful song years ago called, “When Spring is Here.” It’s about walking home from school on a nice spring afternoon and falling in love. Every time I hear this song, I am drawn back to middle school days in Lafayette, remembering the innocence of young love. Other songs

that put me in a great mood are “Groovin’”

by The Rascals, “What is Hip” by Tower of Power, and just about any Beatles song.

They will always lift me up and make the day just a little bit better. Whatever the song, music can transport us to a moment in time. The relationship between music and memory is powerful.

It made me think of other songs that capture a feeling or are just fun springtime songs. (I feel a list coming on.)

1) “Here Comes the Sun,” The Beatles. After a winter filled with cold and rainy weather, this song is all about a brighter day.

2) “Centerfield,” John Fogerty. Nothing brings baseball back more than putting on this song. “Put me in Coach; I’m ready to play!”

3) “Spring Breakdown,” Luke Bryan.

Reminiscing about the good times of spring break.

4) “April Come She Will,” Simon & Garfunkel. Beautiful song about the

changing seasons.

5) “I Can See Clearly Now,” Johnny Nash. One of the most uplifting songs of all time.

6) “Waking Light,” Beck. A beautiful song about new beginnings. “When the morning comes to meet you/Open your eyes with waking light.”

7) “A Father’s First Spring,” The Avett Brothers. Amazing song of how the birth of a baby changes your life. “I never lived ‘til I lived in your light/ And my heart never beat like it does at the sight/ Of you baby blue.”

8) “Their Hearts Were Full of Spring,” The Beach Boys. Harmonies, Harmonies, Harmonies!

9) “A Beginning Song,” The Decemberists. Song about hope and love.

10) “April in Paris,” Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong. One word -classic.

A playlist of these songs would be the perfect soundtrack to start your day.

Let me know what you think.

Spring also means it’s the start of another great music scene in our area.

Paul’s Picks

So many cities now have beer and wine festivals, music in the park, outdoor music on restaurant patios; there’s music everywhere. So get out there and support all the local musicians and events.

As I was finishing up this article, I heard the news of the passing of Chuck Berry. If it weren’t for Chuck, there would be no rock and roll. Period. The Beatles and the Rolling Stones were influenced by his music. I think every guitar player’s first songs were Chuck Berry’s: “Johnny B. Goode,”“Back in the USA,”“Roll over Beethoven,”“School Days,”“Maybellene,” and so many others. He was one of the first musicians inducted in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. I think Bruce Springsteen put it best in his tweet: “Chuck Berry was rock’s greatest practitioner, guitarist, and the greatest pure rock ‘n’ roll writer who ever lived. This is a tremendous loss of a giant for the ages.” Hail Hail, Rock and Roll!

Quote of the Month: “Spring is nature’s way of saying, ‘Let’s party’” ~ Robin Williams

April 1: Jim Caroompas, Roxx on Main, 627 Main St. Martinez, 7pm April 7: The Hot Licks, Armando’s, 707 Marina Vista, Martinez, 8pm April 8: Sin Silver, Rocco’s, 2909 Ygnacio Valley Rd., Walnut Creek, 8pm April 8: Lumberyard, WiseGirl, 1932 Oak Park Blvd., Pleasant Hill, 9pm April 13: The Lost Weekend, Rocco’s, 2909 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek, 8pm April 15: The New Frantics, Roxx on Main, 627 Main St., Martinez, 7pm April 21: Wonder Bread 5, Dan’s Bar, 1524 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek, 10pm April 28: The Big Jangle, WiseGirl, 1932 Oak Park Blvd., Pleasant Hill, 9pm April 30: The Sunday Paper, Armando’s, 707 Marina Vista, Martinez, 4pm

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P L E A S A N T

H I L L

C H A M B E R

O F

C O M M E R C E

It’s Your Business.

Consumers are more likely to do business with a company if it’s a member of their local chamber of commerce.

April 201J

Mark your Calendars!

Chamber of Commerce Events____________ ______________2017 ______________________________ Member Orientation JFK - April 12th Business Mixer Hyatt House – April 13th Young Professional's Mixer WiseGirl - April 20th 2017 Diablo Valley Mayors' Summit Clarion Hotel - April 27th Farmers’ Market Every Saturday from May 6th – November11th Business Mixer Pleasant Hill Dental– May 11th Relay for Life May 20th Business Runway Growing your Business in this "Gig" Economy Workforce Development Center – May 31st Wine at the Plaza June 1st, July 6th, August 3rd, September 7th (Sponsorships still available) Business Mixer Location TBD - June 8th 8th Annual Blues and Brews Festival July 14th & 15th (Sponsorships still available) Multi-Chamber Mega Mixer Clarion Hotel – July 27th Business Mixer Residence Inn – August 10th Business Runway Gear up your Marketing Strategies in time for the holidays JFK - August 16th Business Mixer September 14th - WiseGirl Ristorante 13th Annual Community Service Day September 23rd Art, Wine & Music Festival October 7th & 8th (Sponsorships still available) Business Mixer October 12th - The Courtyard by Marriott Business Expo Clarion Hotel – November 9th Business Runway Gaining Access to Capital - November 15th Hospice Tree of Lights Ceremony November 16th Light up the Night Downtown Pleasant Hill – November 29th Holiday Business Mixer Carlton Senior Living - December 14th

Welcome New Members

EMC Research

Alex Evans

(510) 844-0680

CASA of Contra Costa County

Gordana Zura

(925) 256-7284

Silver Oaks Video Productions

Harold Jeffrey

(925) 363-5225

Film Blogs are Us

Jonathan Winchell

(925) 586-0121

Chevron Corporation

Marian Cathedral-King

(925) 842-4148

Conference Direct

Lisa Jarvis

(925) 288-1443

Local Happenings Magazine

Robert Briseno

(707) 652-3223

Please plan to attend our first annual Mayors' Summit on April 27th. Where else can you hear the latest from five mayors, a county supervisor, an assemblymember and make new connections in two hours? Also, don't forget to mark your calendars for our "Summer of Love" events. Expose your business to thousands who will be attending them. Call the Chamber office for the sponsorship opportunities that are still available, but going fast. Thank you for your continued support and see you around Pleasant Hill.

Steve Van Dorn President & CEO

91 Gregory Lane, Suite 11 • Pleasant Hill, CA 94523 • 925.687.0700

www.pleasanthillchamber.com

ourcommunityfocus.com • april 2017

27

In the Garden

Asparagus a Star Among Spring Crops

maybe it’s you

BY LESLEY STILES

April showers bring May flowers, but our flora situation has been enhanced since November.

Throughout Diablo Valley, blooming flowers, trees and shrubs and verdant green hills reward all the senses.

Spring crops have also responded.

Some of the large-scale growers’ crops have been ruined by flooding, including lettuce, but that only instills further incentive to buy from the farmers’ market; it’s smaller scale production is not affected the way the mega agri businesses are. This is due in part to better bio- dynamic environmental practices such as mulching.

At the farmers’ market, the eyes and senses are treated to crisp, vibrant chartreuse chards and kales, bright orange and red carrots and beets, slim

or fat asparagus, sweet radishes, crazy astounding varieties of citrus, and so much more. We have received the amount of rain we used to when I was a kid. I see it as business as usual as we reap the benefits of normal aquifers at long last.

It’s time to get our summer gardens going. Passing the spring equinox, rising temperatures at night make for ideal conditions and sweet results. April 15 marks the big Biota Garden’s plant sale and Plant Expo at Rogers Ranch, a fantastic option for kicking off the new planting season. This is an event not to be missed. There are also really good plant sales at DVC.

Asparagus is currently peaking at the farmers’ market, screaming to be prepared and eaten. As adventurous teenagers growing up in the 1970s, we snuck up to the delta and foraged asparagus spears, rejected by pickers for not being up to market par, and ate

maybe it’s a parent

Excellent Speakers on …

• Aging & Mental Health • Computers for Seniors • Wills and Trusts • Ken Medema Musical Performer!

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Saturday, April 29

SENIOR OPTIONS SEMINAR A Seminar for Seniors, their Adult Children & Caregivers Saturday, April 29 8:30am – 3:00pm NO Cost ~ NO Obligation Expert Presentations ~ Lunch Provided RSVP by April 27 to reserve your spot (925) 685-7353 or go to www.welcome2faith.com

FAITH LUTHERAN CHURCH PLEASANT HILL | 50 WOODSWORTH LANE | 925-685-7353 28

april 2017 • ourcommunityfocus.com

them sweet, crunchy, and raw.

The Many Ways To Cook Up Asparagus

Asparagus looms large in the early spring. Stockton is as synonymous with asparagus as Brentwood is to corn.

Long, short, fat, thin, green, purple, or the mysteriously buried white, asparagus steamed with salt water and served with mayonnaise or melted butter is almost unbeatable in its satisfaction.

Slicing and sautéing asparagus with olive oil, garlic and fresh farm eggs and then showering it with shaved Manchego makes a sinfully awesome epicurean celebration of spring. Tossed with salt and olive oil and blistered to a light char on incendiary grills elevates all sugars to siren level on your taste buds.

Classically French in inspiration, steamed asparagus gets saucy when served with a little masterpiece of softboiled eggs whipped with champagne vinegar, capers, shallots, and olive oil.

Simmer asparagus, onions, and garlic in chicken broth. When soft, add ½ & ½, purée and season with fresh nutmeg and salt and pepper, creating a brilliant spring soup. Garnish with puréed fresh peas and luscious crème fraiche for a pivotal food moment. Or simply blanch and dip into fresh made Meyer lemon aioli. Bon appétit and happy spring, and

Black Bean and Mango Salsa INGREDIENTS 1 cup cooked black beans 1 mango, firm enough to chop but ripe, chopped 1 jalapeño, chopped fine ½ red onion, chopped fine 2 cloves garlic 3 tablespoons lime juice 3 tablespoons lemon juice 2 tablespoons olive oil Salt and pepper to taste DIRECTIONS In a medium sized bowl, mix all ingredients together and season with salt and pepper. Serve over eggs or on side.

Makes 2 Cups

..........................................................

do not neglect to get outside to hike, walk, bike…anything to enjoy our amazing valley.

Lesley Stiles is a graduate of the California Culinary Academy, sustainable caterer and school garden educator.

Contact Lesley at lesleystiles@comcast. net, www.lesleystiles.blogspot.com and visit her new website: www.lesleystilesfoods.com.

Fresh Ranch Egg Scramble Softly scramble eggs and slowly cook with nice amounts of butter, scraping sides and bottom, so you are basically “stirring” the eggs on low heat. What results is a fluffy, light-colored, well-adhered egg dish. The milk is more for the addition of water than cream. The butter is enough with the richness of the eggs, but the water content in the milk opens up a world of leavening by converting to steam as it heats in the pan, pushing air into the eggs, fluffing them up, and making them even softer. Sautéed local asparagus is seasonally awesome in this particular dish.

INGREDIENTS Eggs 1 dozen eggs, preferably from a neighbor, your own chickens, or the farmers’ market ½ cup non-fat milk or plain almond milk 2 tablespoons butter 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 cup sliced, sautéed asparagus, if available 1 cup grated good Jack cheese 3 tablespoons chopped fresh chives Salt and pepper to taste DIRECTIONS Crack eggs into a bowl and whip with a whisk, adding milk, salt, and pepper. Heat a large, non-stick saucepan to nice and warm. Add butter and olive oil and heat to just before smoking. If using, add the asparagus, warm up, and add the whipped eggs. Using a soft, rubber baking spatula, stir eggs and scrape off sides in a circular motion, almost constantly. Reduce heat and sauté eggs for an additional 15 minutes or so or until firm. Add cheese and mix in until nicely distributed and melted.

Sprinkle with chopped chives. Serve hot.

Serves 6 to 8

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SENIOR CALENDARS SPONSORED BY: MICHAEL BRIONEZ

Your Neighborhood Realtor

Looking for a single level home? Call Michael!

925-288-0477

michael@michaelbrionez.com

Martinez Senior Activities

818 Green Street, Martinez 925-370-8770 Thursdays - Bingo. Sales at 12pm and play from 1-4pm. $5 per pack, $30 guaranteed minimum prize for 10 games.

April 9 - Pancake Breakfast 8-11am. This delicious breakfast includes pancakes or toast, sausage, eggs, orange juice and coffee. Everyone is welcome. $4.00 for adults/$2.50 for children 10 and under. Volunteers needed! If you’re interested in helping set up, serving breakfast or cleaning up, please contact the front desk at (925) 370-8770.

April 21 - Bunco 2-4:30pm. Cost is $8.00. Limited space available, all levels welcome.

The Sunshine State (Miami, Orlando, Florida Keys, Everglades) November 9, 2017 - November 16, 2017, $3,195 (Double Occupancy), $4,095 (Single.)

Visit Disney’s Epcot and Kennedy Space Center then make your way to Fort Myers and explore the Everglades National Park with a fun adventure on the Everglades Airboat.

Enjoy Key West with a trolley tour and visit other famous landmarks. End trip in Miami.

Pleasant Hill Senior Activities 233 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill 925-798-8788 April 13 - Case Management Series presents: “Which Assisted Living Community is Right for Me,” presented by Carlton Senior Living, 2-3pm, PH Senior Center. Space is limited, so please reserve your spot by calling (925) 798-8788.

April 15 - Special Easter Pancake Breakfast All ages welcome. Fuel up before the Eggciting egg hunt in PH Park. Enjoy pancakes or French toast, eggs, sausage, orange juice and coffee. 9-11am, PH Senior Center, 233 Gregory Lane. Tickets: Adults 11+ $5; children 5–10 yrs. $3; and 4 & under free!

Annual Fashion Show

The Martinez Lioness Club will hold their annual fashion show luncheon fundraiser at noon on Wednesday, April 19, at the IBEW Hall, 1875 Arnold Drive, Martinez. The theme this year is “Spring Is In The Air” and features fashions from White Rabbit Boutique in Martinez. Luncheon is catered by Cynthia’s Catering.

Donation for the event is $30 per person, and tickets are available from Janet Sparacino at (925) 229-9033. Get your tickets early as this is a popular event and seating is limited.

Proceeds from the fundraiser will benefit the Martinez Lioness Scholarship Program for students from Alhambra and Vicente-Briones High Schools, the Martinez Lioness Medical Lending Equipment Program, and the Martinez Lioness Preschool Visual Screening Program.

This event is sponsored & organized by the Martinez Lioness Club.

Elise Shrader modeling

Making a Wish Come True

Concord Chapter Women of the Moose club members created blankets for Martinez resident Jackson Murtha, an enterprising 8-year-old boy. Jackson’s wish for his 9th birthday on March 19 was to provide big, soft and warm blankets (he calls them “comfy cozies”) to children in hospitals who are fighting debilitating illnesses.

Women of the Moose read about Jackson’s birthday wish in the Community Focus and wanted to help make his it come true. Together, they made 27 blankets for Jackson’s project.

April 18 - Taste of the Vine: Taste of Italy A variety of red and white wines plus light hors d’oeuvres. Non-alcoholic beverages available. Sponsored by Carlton Senior Living. 4-6pm, Chateau Room, Senior Center. Tickets: Pre-sale $10; Day of $15 (based on availability).

BUY TICKETS EARLY! May 5 - Laugh, Love & Learn: Senior Live Well Forum A day full of educational and uplifting speakers; lunch is included. All funds raised benefit the Senior Center Care Management Program. May 5, 9:30am-1pm, Chateau Room.9:30am-1pm, Chateau Room.

For registration and more information, call the Senior Center at (925) 798-8788. Event is a sell-out! Tickets: $25 if registered by April 21 and $35 thereafter.

Come early for the free Ultimate Senior Resource Fair, 8:30am-1pm. There will be over 50 vendors from the local area and free giveaways. Call Senior Center for more information.

Women of the Moose pose with their creations for Jackson’s birthday wish.

PLAN INCLUDES:

TRUST AGREEMENT POUR OVER WILL GUARDIANSHIP TRANSFER OF REAL PROPERTY HEALTH CARE DIRECTIVE

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LAUREN SMYKOWSKI

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PH Senior Spring Clean Up Day

Are you a senior Pleasant Hill resident age 65 or older and need some light yard work done around the front of your home? The Civic Action Commission is partnering with the Commission on Aging and the Senior Center to reach out to seniors in the Pleasant Hill community who may need some help with clearing weeds, trimming shrubs, and other light landscaping. The first annual Senior Home Clean Up Day is on Sunday, May 7. Seniors who are interested and individuals who want to volunteer can contact Martin Nelis at (925) 671-5229 or mnelis@pleasanthillca.org.

For more information or to pre-register for the event online, go to www.pleasanthillca.org/cleanup. ourcommunityfocus.com • april 2017

29

Understanding Anemia

BY SUSAN KAO, MD

Anemia in the older adult can be a challenging diagnosis to treat as up to 2030% of patients may have unexplained anemia, even after a thorough workup, and a good proportion of patients have multiple causes for their anemia. It’s important to address the cause, and in many cases it’s important to correct because it can potentially cause a decline in one’s physical and mental functioning. Studies have shown an association between increased falls and frailty as well as decreased attention span and executive function with even mild anemia.

When we do a workup for anemia, our initial goal is to find an etiology that we can correct. We first rule out nutritional deficiencies such as iron, folate, or B12 deficiency. These account for about one-third of anemia in older adults. Another one-third of anemia is due to either chronic kidney disease or other chronic or inflammatory disorders such as diabetes, autoimmune disorders, acute or chronic infections, or underly-

ing cancer. Patients with otherwise unexplained anemia may have a bone marrow disorder or defect in bone marrow function.

If iron deficiency has been identified as the cause of the anemia, it’s important to look for a site of blood loss, which usually involves evaluating the gastrointestinal tract through upper and lower endoscopies, which can identify malignant lesions as well as benign lesions like ulcers, polyps, diverticuli, hemorrhoids, and vascular malformations. If there is no clear site of blood loss, then we may look for reasons for poor absorption of iron such as poor dietary intake or poor absorption of iron due to celiac disease.

Even if we cannot find an underlying cause, we can still treat and potentially improve the patient’s symptoms.

We can either give red blood cell transfusions, which carries some risks but can be of benefit, especially in those with underlying cardiac disease. Or we can potentially use injectable medications that stimulate the bone marrow to make more red blood cells.

Part of the Hippocratic Oath I took

The Focus Travels

Last December, Pleasant Hill Mayor Michael Harris and his wife, Dawn Block, took their well-traveled copy of the Community Focus with them on their two-week trip to Cuba. Here they read the Focus at the top of San Juan Hill made famous by Teddy Roosevelt and his Rough Riders. Submitted by Michael Harris and Dawn Block.

30

april 2017 • ourcommunityfocus.com

when I became a doctor was to not just treat the disease but to care for the sick person. This includes palliation of symptoms and doing no harm. I hope to be a guide and a partner with my patients in their medical journey.

Dr. Kao is board certified in internal

medicine, hematology and medical oncology and practices with Diablo Valley Oncology & Hematology Medical Group. Dr. Kao is accepting new patients at offices in Pleasant Hill and Rossmoor/ Walnut Creek. To contact Dr. Kao, please call 925-677-5041.

Bridges to Better Health

BY KEN CARLSON

Among the many things I treasure about public service is my role as a board member for the John Muir/ Mt. Diablo Community Health Fund (CHF). I have seen how many of my friends, neighbors and constituents have benefited from CHF funding and expertise. Over two decades, the CHF – a community benefit arm of John Muir Health – has distributed more than $26 million to community-based, nonprofit organizations and partnered with them to expand and enhance health care services for central and east Contra Costa County’s neediest individuals and families.

Consider the role of Meals on Wheels/Senior Outreach Services (MOWSOS) in the Pleasant Hill-Martinez area. Every day, MOWSOS delivers more than 100 meals to needy seniors in these two cities. That’s important enough, but in 2013, the CHF began providing funding and expertise to support MOWSOS as it ramped up its care coordination role, an increasingly important piece of modern health care.

• MOWSOS care managers connect older adults to free or affordable health providers, legal and financial assistance, elder abuse counselors, and many other services.

• MOWSOS recently received a grant from the county to create its first dedicated case manager for elder abuse. Chief Executive Officer Elaine Clark believes MOWSOS received the grant because of the reputation it earned with CHF support.

• Those delivering meals inform clients about free MOWSOS workshops that help family members care more effectively for a loved one. The next

Pleasant Hill City Council Members Sue Noack and Matt Rinn delivering meals to seniors.

workshop is March 28, in Brentwood.

• MOWSOS hosts an annual breakfast and resource fair at the Pleasant Hill Senior Center to familiarize and connect older adults with essential community health services.

And MOWSOS is but one example of the CHF’s impact. This small but powerful community asset has also brought sustainable primary care, mental health care, specialty care, dental care, and an array of supportive services to tens of thousands of Contra Costans who otherwise would have gone without.

The twentieth anniversary of the CHF is truly a reason to celebrate.

Pleasant Hill City Councilmember Ken Carlson is part of the ten-member CHF board of directors, with half the appointees from the Concord/Pleasant Hill Health Care District and the other half from the John Muir Association.

Tree Trimming Complete a Wildlife Survey

If you love trees, chances are you also care about the wildlife that calls your beautiful trees home. Squirrels, songbirds, woodpeckers, owls and other raptors rely on tree limbs, branches, and cavities for raising babies, roosting, seeking refuge from predators, and finding prey. When trees are pruned in the spring, wildlife that relies upon them becomes vulnerable, particularly babies, who are knocked out of their nests, injured, orphaned, and killed. If they’re lucky, they are found alive and brought to Lindsay’s wildlife hospital. Many, however, die from exposure, predation, or starvation, or they succumb to their injuries.

You can help save wildlife in your neighborhood by waiting until late fall to prune your trees, when they are dormant and deciduous trees have lost their leaves. It may actually be the best time of year, since some tree diseases can be spread when pruning wounds provide access to pathogens.

If you hire a certified arborist to prune your trees, ask if they’re a wildlife friendly business – one that cares about your trees and the wildlife that makes your trees their home. Request that they perform a pre-work wildlife survey, regardless of the time of year they’re working on your trees.

You can perform a wildlife survey by visually inspecting trees for nests and occupied cavities. Binoculars are helpful, but some nests are challenging to spot.

Hawk nests are large and conspicuous, while songbird nests are small and camouflaged. Watch for busy parents and listen for chirping babies, particularly at dawn and dusk. Scan trees from all sides, and train your eyes to spot shapes that don’t fit normal branching patterns.

Don’t forget that nocturnal wildlife, such as barn owls, often occupy tree cavities and hunker down, so investigate all cavities. Listen for other vocalizations, including “barks” from mother squirrels.

Guess where else you should look for wildlife in your trees? On the ground!

The bases of trees may contain indirect

Rehabilitating an injured baby squirell.

signs of wildlife, such as owl pellets, bird droppings, squirrel tracks, and shelled nuts.

Finally, talk to you neighbors. A few are probably avid gardeners and birdwatchers, tuned into the presence of local wildlife in their backyards. If you spot a neighbor preparing to prune her trees in the spring, share this information so she can avoid inadvertently harming wildlife living her trees. Most people grow attached to the animals that visit their yards and will thank you.

Proper pruning keeps your trees healthy and enhances wildlife habitat, but as with so many things, timing is everything. It’s heartbreaking to witness distraught people who care about animals arrive at our wildlife hospital with injured babies because they didn’t realize they were living in a tree that was pruned. My heart goes out to them, as it’s often too late to save the babies.

The Lindsay Wildlife Hospital is located on the west side of the Lindsay Wildlife Experience building at 1931 First Avenue in Walnut Creek. For more information, go to the website at www.lindsaywildlife. org. ourcommunityfocus.com • april 2017

31

High School Memorials Project Blue Star Mom Brings Honor and Remembrance to Reality

In September 2004, Loretta Masnada read that a young Marine, Mick Bekowsky, a Concord High School (CHS) graduate, had died in combat in Iraq.

Her older son had graduated from CHS, and her younger son was a current student there. “At the time of reading about Mick, I felt that something should be done at the school to honor this young man,” said Loretta. Little did Loretta know at the time that her younger son would enlist in the Marine Corps. She has since become a Care Package Coordinator for the Contra Costa Blue Star Moms, and her son, SSgt. Anthony Noble, remains an active duty Marine.

Twelve years after reading about Mick, Loretta met his mother, Joan Bekowsky. It was then that Loretta finally decided it was time to do something to memorialize Mick and not just think about it. Loretta explains, “I discussed this with Carol Prell, the president of Contra Costa Blue Star Moms. Together

we decided to start this new project, High School Memorials, and got it sponsored by the CC Blue Star Moms, CA 20.”

The goal is to place a granite memorial at each high school where a former student died in combat in Iraq or Afghanistan.

In discussing this with members of the military, Loretta and Carol were informed that they had to limit who could be honored with a memorial, so it is limited to those who died in combat. “Tragic as other deaths are, we are unable to include those who died in training accidents or by natural causes, criminal activity, or suicide. We simply don’t have the means to locate them all or the funds to create a much larger memorial to include all.” These high school memorials will include 17 fallen warriors at 12 high schools in the club’s region.

Loretta is very pleased and proud to say they were finally able to dedicate a memorial for Mick Bekowsky at Concord High on November 9, 2016. They dedi-

cated their second memorial at Berean High for Pfc Benjamin B. Tollefson on March 15. Pfc Tollefson was killed in Iraq on December 31, 2008. They will be dedicating a memorial in honor of Marine Corps LCpl. Erick J. Hodges at Mt. Diablo High on May 24, 2017. “Three down, nine to go.” says Loretta. The remaining nine high schools covered in the CC Blue Star Moms region are: Antioch High, Benicia High, Clayton Valley Charter, College Park, Olympic, De La Salle, Las Lomas, Liberty and Ygnacio Valley.

The CC Blue Star Moms are very proud to be able to bring this honor and remembrance to reality so that generations to come will know of the sacrifices that were made for their freedoms.

The cost for each memorial is $5,000. You can help Contra Costa Blue Star Moms accomplish their goal by sending a check made out to “CCBSM” to: Contra Costa Blue Star Moms, P.O. Box 6379, Concord, CA 94524. Please write

PURE MUIR Gala a celebration of East Bay open space

The family of Pfc Benjamin B. Tollefson surround a memorial at a dedication to him at Berean Christian High School where he graduated in 2005.

“High School Memorials” in the memo area. Or donate by credit card at gofundme.com/23ta7d84.

The Contra Costa Blue Star Moms are a 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable group, and all donations are tax deductible.

Saturday, May 6th • 5-9 pm

Campana Farm, Moraga

Join us for a celebration of East Bay open space! Enjoy music, gourmet dinner, wine and live auction. Learn more about Carr Ranch and what’s on the horizon. Purchase tickets at jmlt.org or 925.228.5040 Sponsored by

32

april 2017 • ourcommunityfocus.com

Recognizing Excellence Pleasant Hill Rec & Park and Partners Awarded

Pleasant Hill Recreation & Park District is pleased to announce multiple winners from the California Park and Recreation Society (CPRS) District 3 Annual Awards Program, recognizing excellence in agencies, individuals, and professionals in Park and Recreation in 2016 in Alameda and Contra Costa Counties.

The District’s Care Management Speaker Series and its program manager Dana Krieer won the competitive Agency Showcase Award for Outstanding Park & Recreation Program. This free monthly event

brings seniors and their families together to learn about a variety of relevant topics related to the aging experience, thereby facilitating a more educated aging community who can proactively plan and manage their own long-term care. CMS series is tremendously successful and continues to grow as the demand for aging education increases.

District-nominated Rodgers Ranch Heritage Center and District Business Partner Land Home Financial won Outstanding Agency Awards for Outstanding Non-profit and Business Partner in Parks and Recrea-

tion, respectively. Both organizations devote tremendous resources for the improvement of the Pleasant Hill community.

Paul Cotruvo was awarded the Outstanding Community Volunteer Award.

Cotruvo, a popular local musician, strongly believes that musicians should actively give back to the local communities that support their passion for music. His extensive volunteer efforts at many of the district’s signature events have contributed greatly to the quality of these programs, all while inspiring others to volunteer.

Bob Berggren, retired district general manager, won a CPRS District 3 Lifetime Achievement Award for 40 years of outstanding leadership and service with the district and contributions to the community.

“These five award winners exemplify the passion and dedication that the district staff, community partners and affiliated individuals all share to make life better for residents in the Pleasant Hill community,” said Zac Shess, chair of the district’s board of directors. “We are so appreciative of their efforts.

Rundles Honored 2017 Woman of the Year

Local resident Angela Rundles has been honored as the 2017 Contra Costa County Woman of the Year for the Third Senate District. In recognition of Women’s History Month, Senator Bill Dodd honored one woman from each of the counties he represents who has made significant contributions to her respective community.

“I want to thank Senator Dodd for this incredible honor,” said Angela Rundles.

“This award was a joyous surprise, and I appreciate the senator’s activism and community engagement, including visits to the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Diablo Valley, in the short time he has been representing Contra Costa County.”

Angela is the founder of Rundles & Associates, an event management company that focuses on creative collaboration with non-profits and their board and committees to produce highly successful fundraising events. In the many events she produces, Angela insists on hiring local vendors and agencies to promote her community’s local economy. Prior to running her own business, Angela worked for the Oakland Athletics as a corporate events manager.

“Angela’s engagement in the community as a small business owner and volunteer sets an inspiring standard for others to follow,” said Senator Dodd. “She leads by example, not just in her own career, but on her own time by volunteering

Outstanding Business Partner Winners Angela Warren and Brad Waite from Land Home Financial (middle) with Tina Young and Kendra Luke.

Angela Rundles, Contra Costa County Woman of the Year.

on the boards of local organizations and nonprofits.”

Angela currently serves as the board chair of the Boys & Girls Club of the Diablo Valley, where she has overseen an increase in youth attendance by 40 percent. She also oversees the organization’s merger with the Boys & Girls Club of El Sobrante to form the Boys & Girls Club of Contra Costa, where she will serve as the first chair.

Angela has also served on the board for the Martinez Chamber of Commerce and chaired the successful Martinez Mayor’s Cup golf tournament.

Senator Bill Dodd represents the 3rd Senate District, which includes all or portions of Contra Costa, Solano, Napa, Sonoma, Yolo, and Sacramento Counties.

You can learn more about the district and Senator Dodd at www.sen.ca.gov/dodd.

Outstanding Rec Program winner Dana Krider.

Rodgers Ranch Heritage Center winners Aloma Levine Denise Koroslev and Habiba Hall-Bey.

Outstanding Volunteer winner Paul Cotruvo with Katrina Hunn.

Lifetime Achievement winner former PHR&PD General Manager Bob Berggren and PHR&PD Board Chair Zac Shess. ourcommunityfocus.com • april 2017

33

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Pleasant Hill Rec & Park Ruth Bancroft Garden Samuels Construction Senior Helpers Shell Western States Federal Credit Union Special Olympics Northern California Stokley Property Management Services Susan Wood Photography Walnut Festival Association Waters Moving and Storage Wence’s Restaurant WiseGirl Ristorante Italiano & Cocktails

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Make Some Plans april 4

april 19

april 22

april 24

Pleasant Hill Garden Study Club

Like Magic?

Dinner, Dance & Auction

Head and Neck Cancer Seminar

Valhalla Elementary Parent Faculty Assoc. hosts their annual event at Contra Costa Country Club, 6-11:30pm. Guests 21+ are welcome.

For information and tickets, visit valhalla. ejoinme.org/gala.

Join an engaging panel of medical experts focusing on the unique issues of patients with oral cavity and oropharyngeal cancers.

6:30-8:30pm, Walnut Creek Library. Q & A to follow. RSVP (925) 677-5041 x272.

Monthly meeting with Bob Gould & Tim Colby presenting All About Bonsai. Guests are always welcome and free. PH Community Center, 6:30pm. 925-323-9314 or www. phgsc.com.

The Society of American Magicians Assembly #112 meets the 3rd Wednesday of each month, 7pm, at Veterans of Foreign Wars, 1919 Wendell Lane, Pleasant Hill. Open to all!

Contact Mark at 510.701.7207.

april 5, 12 & 19

april 19

april 22

may 1

Watercolors in the Garden

ACLU Talk

John Muir Bday & Earth Day

Fore! For ARF

Join Wendy Soneson for a 3-part, plein-air watercolor series in a garden that features a spectacular collection of succulents and cacti.

10am-1pm. The Ruth Bancroft Garden. $70/ mem., $80/gen. adm. Register at ruthbancroftgarden.org.

Antonio Medrano of the ACLU will discuss protecting civil rights and human rights in the new political era. Sponsor: Diablo Valley Democratic Club. 7pm, Ygnacio Valley Library, 2661 Oak Grove Rd., WC. Park on Deerpark Dr. RSVP to karen@dvdems.org Info: 925.946.0469 or www.dvdems.org.

april 13 &20

april 19

may 6

Free Cancer Screenings

A Trip to the Moon

The Man Who Lit Lady Liberty

Oral and head & neck screenings will be performed by Arash Mohebati, MD, who specializes in head and neck oncologic surgery.

Reserve an appointment by calling (925) 9330984. West Coast Surgical Associates, 130 La Casa Via, B-211, Walnut Creek.

National Park Service celebrates John Muir’s 179th Birthday and Earth Day, 10am-4pm, at the John Muir National Historic Site in Martinez. Tours and family activities. Free. johnmuirassociation.org.

Film viewing and lecture on the 1902 French silent film A Trip to the Moon, directed by Georges Melies and inspired by Jules Verne’s novels. 6:30pm, DVC, Community Conference Center, 321 Golf Club Rd. $35, Ages 18+. Info & registration at ourcommunityfocus.com/ events.

Join ARF for a day on the green and help animals in need at the popular FORE! ARF golf tournament. Noontime shotgun start. Blackhawk Country Club, Danville. FORE! ARF sells out well in advance. Reserve your spot today.

Details at www.arflife.org.

Author/historian Richard Schwartz talks about his book The Man Who Lit Lady Liberty: The Extraordinary Rise and Fall of Actor M.B. Curtis. Hosted by Martinez and CC Historical Societies. 1–3:30pm, Shell Clubhouse, 1635 Pacheco Blvd., Martinez.

RSVP: mkting@cocohistory.org or (925) 229-1042

april 15

april 22

may 6 & 7

Expo and Plant Sale

Literary Women

Two Short Plays

Huge Expo and Plant Sale! Rodgers Ranch Urban Farm: Saturday, April 15, 10am - 4pm.

1000s of unique heirloom plants (tomatoes, herbs, succulents and more). BBQ by DVC Culinary, artisanal products, free classes, historic farmhouse. 315 Cortsen Rd, Pleasant Hill, www. rodgersranchurbanfarm.org

Bay Area Bluestocking Festival of Authors. For readers and writers. 9:30am-3pm. Pleasant Hill Community Center, Perrera Pavillion, $49.

Includes muffins and lunch. Tickets at www. pleasanthillrec.com.

Eugene O’Neill’s Shell Shock and Rita Creighton Smith’s The Rescue will be seen on a single bill May 6, 8pm, and May 7, 2pm, in the Old Barn at the Eugene O’Neill National Historic Site in Danville. Tickets available beginning April 1 at www.eugeneoneil.org. or call (925) 820-1818.

april 15

april 20

april 22

may 21

Lion’s Club Egg Hunt

Free Joint Concert

Wine, Women & Shoes

Martinez Waterfront Park grass area. For ages 2 – 9. Enjoy face painting. Bring your camera to take pictures with the Bunny. Egg Hunt begins at 10am sharp. Please arrive at the park by 9:45am.

The Contra Costa Jazz Band (big band), Martinez Community Chorus (vocals), and Diablo Regional Concert band (pops) performs FREE concert at Martinez Junior High Auditorium, located on Court and Warren Streets, at 7pm.

Bay Area Craft Beer Festival This Main Street Martinez festival draws 3,500 people to enjoy beer from over 50 microbreweries, live music, and food from local restaurants. Waterfront Park on North Court St., a short walking distance from the Martinez Amtrak Station, and free downtown parking. Noon-4 pm.

Be there. Be Fabulous. Food, wine, shoe guys and a fashion show. It’s the most popular luxury fundraiser event of the season! Saturday, 2pm - 6pm, Pleasant Hill Community Center. Tickets: winewomenandshoes.com/ event/contracosta.

ourcommunityfocus.com • april 2017

35

2016 / 2017 CATAGORIES FOOD & DRINK

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Overall Favorite Restaurant

Chiropractor Orthodontist Dentist Salon & Spa Skin Care Gym

Martinez Pleasant Hill Walnut Creek

Burger Spot Martinez Pleasant Hill Walnut Creek

2016/2017

Vote Now!

at www.ourcommunityfocus.com

BBQ Seafood Steak Chinese Mediterranean Japanese Indian Sushi Mexican Thai Italian Ice Cream Frozen Yogurt Bakery Martinez Pleasant Hill Walnut Creek

Pizza

2016 2017 READERS’ LOCAL FAVORITES It’s time to vote for your 2016/2017 LOCAL FAVORITES in dining, shopping, services and more.

Voting begins now and ends MAY 19, 2017.

Please vote in as many categories as possible.

You may only vote once.

Martinez Pleasant Hill Walnut Creek

Breakfast

Handyman Services Contractor Painter Pest Control Fencing Cleaning Services Landscaping

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES Real Estate Martinez Pleasant Hill Walnut Creek

Insurance Martinez Pleasant Hill Walnut Creek

Sandwiches

SENIOR SERVICES Senior Care Services Assisted Living

Martinez Pleasant Hill Walnut Creek

Beer on Tap Martinez Pleasant Hill Walnut Creek

Wine Selection Martinez Pleasant Hill Walnut Creek

Happy Hour Martinez Pleasant Hill Walnut Creek

Sports Bar Martinez Pleasant Hill Walnut Creek

Bartender

Independent Coffee House Martinez Pleasant Hill Walnut Creek Martinez Pleasant Hill Walnut Creek

april 2017 • ourcommunityfocus.com

HOME IMPROVEMENT

Computer Services Photographer

Live Music

36

Dance Studio Martial Arts

Martinez Pleasant Hill Walnut Creek

Martinez Pleasant Hill Walnut Creek

Email info@ourcommunityfocus.com if you have any questions concerning the contest.

Martinez Pleasant Hill Walnut Creek

Martinez Pleasant Hill Walnut Creek

PET SERVICES Pet Sitting Pet Grooming Veterinarian Martinez Pleasant Hill Walnut Creek

AUTOMOTIVE SERVICES Mechanic Martinez Pleasant Hill Walnut Creek

Auto Body

BOUTIQUES & GIFTS Boutique Second-Hand Gifts & Collectibles Independent Market/Grocery