April2014Focus lores

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•APRIL 2014

Delivered to Over 50,000 Homes and Businesses

Photo Tod Gomes creativelookphoto.com

• Wine, Women and Shoes Event . .................page 5 • Martinez Citizens of the Year . .................. page 11 • Chester to Tule Lake . ................................. page 17 • All League Selections................................... page 19

Every 15 Minutes................................................ page 23 Local Live Music . .............................................. page 26 Meet the Local Expert........................................ page 34 Easter Services & Spring Boutique................... page 36

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April 2014

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April 2014

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Park Renovations

In Martinez, Cappy Ricks Park at 1203 Brown Street and Nancy Boyd Park at 90 Church Street, are the latest Measure H accomplishments since the passing of the bond in 2008. Cappy Ricks and Nancy Boyd are part of a three-park renovation project that also includes Hidden Valley Park, which is nearly complete. The total cost for the renovation projects is approximately $5 million. The Cappy Ricks Park project consists of new restrooms, paths, turf, and irrigation. There is a new picnic area, new rubber surfacing under the existing play equipment and the basketball court was resurfaced. The tennis courts were reconstructed and improved with new state of the art lighting. At Nancy Boyd Park, children will love the new playground equipment, including a new slide, swing sets and a rope bridge. Old picnic areas were replaced with four beautiful new picnic areas with barbeques. The basketball court surface was refurbished here as well, and there is new turf and irrigation in the field. The improvements to the restrooms, ball field, tennis courts and basketball courts were completed earlier. Each park has newly remodeled facilities

that are ADA accessible. Pleasant Hill’s Pleasant Oaks Park, located at 2 Santa Barbara Road, was the final project completed as part of the 2009 Measure E bond. The park improvements include one full size soccer field, five softball fields, batting cages and covered dugouts, ADA compliant pathways throughout the park, picnic areas, new landscaping, a playground and resurfacing of the parking lots. Fundraising is under way for the addition of a youth playground.

PHBA enjoying new dugouts.

27 Tips to Drive Up the Sale of Your Home

East Bay - Because your home may well be your largest asset, selling it is probably one of the most important decisions you will make in your life. And, once you have made that decision, you’ll want to sell your home for the highest price in the shortest time possible without compromising your sanity. Before you place your home on the market, here’s a way to help you to be as prepared as possible. To assist home sellers, a new industry report has just been released called, “27 Valuable Tips You Should Know to Get Your Home Sold Fast and for Top Dollar.” It tackles the important issues you need to know to make your home competitive in today’s tough, aggressive marketplace. With these 27 tips, discover how to protect and capitalize on your

most important investment, reduce stress, be in control of your situation, and make the most profit possible. Discover how to avoid financial disappointment or, worse, a financial disaster when selling your home. Using a common-sense approach, get the straight facts about what can make or break the sale of your home. You owe it to yourself to learn how these important tips will give you the competitive edge to get your home sold fast and for the most amount of money. To hear a brief recorded message about how to order your FREE copy of this report, call 1-800-597-9215 and enter ID 1237. You can call any time, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

This report is courtesy of East Bay Residential Realty, BRE 01245396. Not intended to solicit buyers or sellers currently under contract. Copyright © 2013 PAID ADVERTORIAL

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April 2014

JULIE SAYS

Don’t Forget to Write Home!

A host of ads promoting fantastic summer camps for kids have started popping up. Ranging from the traditional to a vast array of specialty camps for science, sports and the arts, these camps look like a ton of fun. Fortunately, adults no longer need be envious of the many enrichment opportunities specifically for children. Yes, camps for grown-ups have arrived! Here is a sampling of my online research: The Coney Island Sideshow School offers the rare chance to master some unique skills. Who would not want to attend a three-day camp by the sea to learn how to hammer a 20-penny nail right into one’s own head? (You might be surprised to learn that this is not an illusion, but takes advantage of existing cavities in the human skull. Please don’t try this at home. Get some instruction at Coney Island first. I mean it.) Aside from this sideshow stunt, known as the “human blockhead,” you will have the opportunity to take up fire-eating, snakecharming and sword-swallowing. Go to www.coneyisland.com/programs for more information. You can also find out how to become a supporting member of Coney Island and all it has to offer. If you join at the “Big Spender” level, you will be invited to be an official judge at the annual Mermaid Parade. This could be the best $150 you ever spent! The Zombie Survival Course in central New Jersey can be enjoyed as a day class or a more intensive weekend training camp. This camp allows you to gain the skills needed to survive after the apocalypse. You will train in handto-hand combat and the effective use of melee weapons (blades and blunt instruments), with a little knife-throwing, crossbow shooting and firearms practice thrown in. The website says this is a great gift idea for that someone special. You can also reserve the camp for a private group -- maybe a book club outing, PTA

By Julie Ross retreat or bachelorette party? Check out the details at www.zombiesurvivalcourse. com. If you are looking for a more peaceful pursuit, the Sonoma County Grape Camp might be more to your taste or, should we say, “tasting?” Campers work side by side with renowned wine makers, learn about food and wine pairing and enjoy insider tours. According to the website, you will spend “three blissful days picking grapes and blending your

own wine with your own hands.” After a hard day’s work in the vineyard, campers relax at a luxury hotel. Now doesn’t Grape Camp sound more civilized than putting a screwdriver up your nose or attacking your fellow campers with a blunt instrument? Plus, it’s closer to home. Register for your favorite camp soon. Have fun, pack your sunscreen and don’t forget to write! You can reach Julie at julieakross@ comcast.net

Independent & Locally Owned

PUBLISHERS Becky Coburn, Jennifer Neys, Elena Hutslar info@ourcommunityfocus.com A Monthly Publication delivered to over 50,000 Homes and Businesses in Pleasant Hill, Martinez, Pacheco, Lafayette and Walnut Creek

ADVERTISING Reba Bower 925-348-1724

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There are over 535* reasons

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CONTACT INFORMATION: Community Calendar:

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925-676-5859 Don, Norma, and Erik’s listings... 1649 Marta Dr, Pleasant Hill — $500,000 1919 Ygnacio Valley Rd, #80 Walnut Creek — price tbd 2231 Lynbrook Dr., Pittsburg — $240,000 (pending) 790 Ruth Dr., Pleasant Hill — $525,000 (pending) CalBRE #s — Don: 00971602, Norma: 00867031, Erik: 01891688

info@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.

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April 2014

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Wine Women & Shoes!

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What do strappy stilettos and a Sauvignon Blanc have in common? What Pinot would you pair with platform pumps? Get answers to these questions and more as we raise our glasses at the first annual Contra Costa County Wine Women & Shoes fundraiser at the Pleasant Hill Community Center on May 18, 2-5pm. This event benefits Pleasant Hill Recreation & Park District and Hospice of the East Bay. “Speak the language of Manolo AND Barolo!” quips Kendra Luke, local event coordinator and Pleasant Hill Recreation & Park District Supervisor. “We are very excited to host one of the fastest-growing luxury event series created for women by women in the U.S. Now in its eighth year, with events in twenty-four cities, Wine Women & Shoes has helped net $9 million nationally for various women’s and familyrelated causes. We want to do our part to raise funds for these causes in our

own community.” All proceeds will benefit Pleasant Hill Recreation & Park District youth, teen and senior programs, as well as Hospice of the East Bay, which offers a specialized, personalized approach to medical care and support at the end of life. Pleasant Hill Recreation & Park District will host Wine Women & Shoes for women in Contra Costa County to come together and kick up their heels for two great causes. At the event, guests will sip varietals from some of the country’s top winemakers, shop the latest trends in the multi-designer marketplace, enjoy a red carpet fashion show and slip on fantasy shoes served up on silver platters by charming, local “shoe guys,” who are experts on the “fine art of wine and shoe pairing.” Guests will also have the opportunity to bid on one-of-a-kind auction items, including a once-in-a-lifetime Napa Valley getaway and a firehouse

Benefitting Pleasant Hill Recreation & Park District and Hospice of the East Bay

Be there. Be fabulous! SUNDAY, MAY 18, 2014

2:00 - 5:00 pm at Pleasant Hill Community Center Tickets Include: Wine tasting from top vintners t Charming Shoe Guys t Swag Bag Shopping the latest fashions t One-of-a-kind silent & live auction items Glamorous fashion show t Delicious food bites TICKETS ON SALE! WINEWOMENANDSHOES.COM/PLEASANTHILL Meet our Shoe Guys at facebook.com/WWSpleasanthill Our Generous Sponsors

dinner served to you and your closest friends by the firemen themselves! Ladies will enjoy delectable nibbles provided by local restaurants and caterers, wines from DeLoach, JCB, Raymond, New Age, and Le Grand Courtage, and wines from the Bespoke Collection, Frenchie Winery and many more. An event of this caliber would not be possible without the generous support of local event sponsors, including Diablo Magazine, Gina Khan Salon, Land Home Financial Services, Pacific Gas & Electric and Republic Services. Wine Women & Shoes tickets are $125 for general admission and $175 for VIP admission. To purchase tickets, please visit http://cccwinewomenandshoes.com/. Step up for your community in a fabulous new pair of shoes! For more information, call or email Kendra Luke at (925) 771-7650, kluke@pleasanthillrec.com.

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April 2014

Our community is mourning the painful losses of two vivacious young ladies in separate tragic accidents during the past few weeks, Martinez Junior High 8th grader, Jenna Betti and 20 year-old Alhambra alum, Kate Hopkins. With their strong ties in Martinez and Pleasant Hill, their families have offered the following to remember Jenna and Kate.

Jenna Betti Nothing in life prepares you for a moment like this. Although we all know part of living is dying, we have a predetermined time of what an acceptable length of a life should be. But Jenna’s life, although cut short, was a full life. She had the amazing ability to light up a room with her smile and she could lift your spirits with her laugh. As we work through the pain of losing a daughter, a family member, a teammate and a friend, we must remember to keep her near and dear to our hearts. She would want us to continue to tell her our stories, our challenges, and our problems. She loved to be there for everyone. She truly cared about every person in her life and even in her passing she has united us all. The outpouring of love and support that has been thrust upon us is beyond our comprehension. Words cannot express our gratitude for all that you have done for us and it is truly amazing that even in our darkest days how blessed we feel for the way you have put your arms around us. May Jenna’s spirit live on in all of us and embrace you for a lifetime. With all our love today and forever ~ The Betti Family The Betti family has set up a memorial fund and donations can be sent to: Jenna Betti Memorial Fund, West America Bank, 590 Center Ave. Martinez, CA 94553.

Kathryn (Kate) Erlene Hopkins At the age of three it was clear that Kate Hopkins knew no strangers when it was pointed out to her that she wouldn’t know any of the older kids at the Lindsey Museum Summer Camp. “I’ll just tell them my name and then they’ll be my friends,” she replied. Friendship is the best word to describe Kate’s short life; throughout grade school, middle school and her time at Alhambra High School in Martinez she found many friends. Kate had the ability to make any event more fun and she had the knack to recognize and befriend those who might not have otherwise been included. She was known by her twinkling bluegreen eyes, her smile and her chortling laugh. But Kate had a serious side as well. She was devoted to both her swim team and her Cheer Team, rarely missing a practice. She carried that same work ethic with her to the University of Tennessee Rugby Team. Kate appeared to be fearless but in fact she was afraid of three things: public speaking, needles and climbing Half Dome in Yosemite. The first she overcame while in high school speaking at the Martinez Kiwanis weekly meetings. She overcame her fear of needles by becoming a blood donor and then climbed Half Dome when she was a freshman at California Lutheran. Kate Hopkins died from injuries received while long boarding in Yosemite Valley. She was home for spring break, enjoying a beautiful day in one of her favorite places and was looking forward to being with her family for most of the week. She leaves behind hundreds of loving relatives and friends. If you wish to make a donation in Kate’s memory please consider either Alhambra high school cheerleaders or the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Women’s Rugby team.

Member

American Association of Orthodontists

Specialist in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics

Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics

3147 Putnam Blvd. Pleasant Hill, CA 94523

TELEPHONE 925.933.0435

April 2014 communityfocus-ecomulch-ad-2014-2.pdf

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EcoMulch, a family owned business in Martinez, was founded to re-purpose the woody materials that our parent company, Hamilton Tree Service Inc., was generating and sending to the landfill. We have designed a product that is environmentally preferable and ecologically friendly. Since 2008, EcoMulch has diverted approximately 18,000 tons of wood material with the help of local cities and landscapers in the Contra Costa County. We take what would otherwise be a waste product from local professional tree companies and process it to create a usable, high quality product that is valuable to our local communities. The product we create is absolutely the best mulch available due to the high organic content created by using the entire tree and not just the bark. We also pride ourselves on our zero contamination feedstock, unlike mass produced mulch found from most refuse compa-

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PLEASANT HILL CITY BUZZ

I am an avid reader and enjoy not just the artistry and storytelling of a well-written book, but the tactile pleasure of holding the bound volume. I only recently acquiesced to the modern and began occasional use of the e-reader I received for Christmas. One of the big attractions for me and my then young family in selecting our home in Poet’s Corner was that we could walk to the library. And we did—often. Over the more than two decades I have frequented the Pleasant Hill Library, I have noticed its physical shortcomings. The county acknowledges over $10 million in deferred maintenance. Many have now come to the conclusion that Pleasant Hill would benefit greatly from a new library. This matter was studied over ten years ago and a report was issued then which found the need existed for a new library, but the idea lay fallow due to lack of public support for the cost of construction. Since the shortcomings of the library building have not been addressed in the past ten years, the city council recently established the Pleasant Hill Library Task Force to explore the need and feasibility of building a new library. Councilmembers Michael Harris and Jack Weir were appointed to serve on the task force, along with representatives of the Friends of the Library, the Pleasant Hill Library Fund, Contra Costa County Library, the Pleasant

April 2014

Mayor’s Message

Tim Flaherty, Mayor of Pleasant Hill Hill Planning and Education Commismunity needs, as well as serves as a place strong and united community support for sions, the Pleasant Hill Recreation and for learning, exploration and discovery for this endeavor. I look forward to seeing a Park District, the Mount Diablo Unified vibrant grassroots campaign to bring a new all. School District, the county board of super You can reach me at tflaherty@ library to our city – one that is state of the visors and the city’s representative to the ci.pleasant-hill.ca.us. art and meets our technological and comCounty Library Commission. Appointments from the member organizations are underway, and the task Possible Hotel to Replace Restaurant force will be holding its first meeting Study sessions were conducted in March by both the Architectural Review sometime this month. All of its meetings Commission (ARC) and Planning Commission to consider a proposal to demolish will be open to the public, and the details the former Chevy’s restaurant, located at 650 Ellinwood Way, and replace it with of the meetings and other announcements a four story (54-foot tall), 137 guest room, extended-stay hotel (Hilton Homewood Suites). Chevy’s filed for bankruptcy in October 2011 and closed the Pleasant Hill pertaining to the work of the task force will location in February 2012. be posted on the city’s website. The Planning Commission and ARC received a presentation from the applicant One area of consideration for the and also received comments from the public who expressed concerns about the task force will surely be recent legislaheight, location, potential noise, traffic and a possible increase in crime. Concerns tion introduced by State Senator Mark were also expressed about the impact on property values and overall compatibility DeSaulnier. The “California Reading and with the neighborhood. City staff concerns included: building height, parking, and Literacy Improvement and Public Library traffic impacts. A final determination regarding the scope of environmental review Construction and Renovation Bond Act will be made shortly after the project application is determined to be complete. of 2014” (SB 1455) would put a statewide More Details on a New Pleasant Hill Library… bond measure on the November ballot to The Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors authorized county staff to begin discussions with the City of Pleasant Hill on disposition of three county owned propraise money to support new library conerties: 1) a 10-acre parcel on Oak Park Blvd., south of PH Middle School; 2) a 6-acre struction. If approved, it is likely that state parcel owned by the County Flood Control and Water Conservation District, north funds would become available in 2016 for of PH Middle; and 3) the 4.8-acre parcel at the current location. library projects that have local support and At the March 10 city council meeting, Chris Brown, senior community library are ready to move forward. However, the manager at Contra Costa County, said, “I wanted to echo how much use this liapplication process will be very competibrary gets. Just last year we saw over 22,000 children and parents come in for our tive and many other cities and counties early literacy story times with Patrick (Remer). I want to show my support for this new will be seeking this money. task team and emphasize that this is impacting our kids in a big way.” I am hoping that we will also find Recall of City Clerk On February 24, a process server served City Clerk Kim Lemkuhl with a Notice of willing participants in the county, the Mt. Intention to circulate a recall petition. The recall petition is in response to her failure Diablo School District and the Pleasant to produce city council meeting minutes for an entire year. Hill Recreation & Park District to help us At the March city council meeting, a motion was carried to appoint Linda build a new community library. We were Stehr, who retired from her position in 2012, to serve as the elections official if there close to doing so ten years ago, but didn’t is a recall for the city clerk. If recall proponents have their petition certified by Stehr, get the job done. they will have 120 days to collect approximately 3,800 signatures. If they collect the More than anything else, we will need signatures, a recall election will be held concurrently with the November general

City News

Public Meetings

Architectural Review Commission April 3, 17 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane Small Community Room, 5pm Contact: 671-5209

Education Commission April 23 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane Large Community Room, 7pm Contact: 671-5229

City Council April 7, 21 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane Council Chambers, 7:30pm Contact: 671-5229

Planning Commission April 8, 22 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane Council Chambers, 7:30pm Contact: 671-5209

Civic Action Commission April 2 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane Small Community Room, 6:30pm Contact: 671-5229

All meetings take place at City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill. For Confirmation Visit: www.ci.pleasanthill.ca.us

election. Another option would be if Lehmkuhl simply stepped down. According to Ballotpedia.org, if the recall goes to a vote, it will cost Pleasant Hill an estimated $23,712. Regardless of the outcome, the city will have to pay the county elections office roughly $3,000 to verify the signatures. Lehmkuhl, who works part-time with the city, responded to the criticism of her performance on her PH City Clerk Twitter by stating: “The state requires city clerks to keep (as in maintain the files of) accurate records. A) It doesn’t specify that those records must be “minutes” (and it certainly doesn’t specify the form or content of any minutes). B) Many city clerk functions are delegated to deputies; staff creates and publicly notices council agendas, for example. Most other cities in this state produce action minutes only and/or have staff draft minutes for clerk to certify. To actually accomplish everything statutorily required myself, I would have to be fulltime, and that’s not Pleasant Hill’s system. I’m statutorily required to keep minutes, not to write/edit/format/print/publish them myself alone, but I do that to save city $$$. I am doing significantly more with significantly less than perhaps any other clerk in the state.”

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April 2014

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Mayor’s Message

Every city and county in the State of California is required to prepare and adopt a comprehensive, long- term blueprint for the future physical develPhoto by Stahlberg opment of its communities. This is known as the “general plan,” and it guides each city’s staff and city council with specific parameters for what is and what is not allowed with respect to development guidelines. The California Supreme Court considers general plans as the “constitution for future development” of cities and counties. But general plans are intended to do more than just meet legal requirements of a state law; they need to be a statement from the community of its’ values and vision for the future. It articulates how the community atlarge views their future and how they intend to deal with current and future planning and development. All general plans must cover the topics of land use, circulation, housing, conservation, open space, noise, and safety. They must also be in full conformance with the state’s climate action planning requirements. Martinez’ General Plan is woefully out of date, having been adopted in 1973. After almost four decades, the document does not meet current state standards, legal requirements or current demands. And because the current general plan is so out of date, the Martinez City Council was constantly forced to consider general plan amendments in order to allow both residential and commercial development to move forward. In 2010, the Martinez City Council allocated the funds to start the process of up-

MARTINEZ CITY BUZZ

Rob Schroder, Mayor of Martinez dating the general plan. A task force made in February of 2015. ning document for at least the next twenty up of eighteen members of the community, Once this document is adopted, it will years. It is also well in line with what other representing residents; business and propgive the development, business and residencommunities our size have spent on their erty owners; and non-profit, environmental tial communities a clear vision of what Margeneral plans, with many expending over and business organizations, was appointed tinez wants to be, alleviating many of the one million dollars. It is expected that the by me and ratified by the city council. With public review draft of the plan will go before controversial discussions that occur when support from the general plan consultant development is proposed. the planning commission and city council and city staff, those eighteen individuals held twenty-two public meetings and workshops over a two-year period. Reusable Bag Outreach Distribution Plan Due to some challenges with the con City council approved a budget of $19,000 to support the initial phase of the sultant and former city staff, the general city’s plastic bag ban outreach effort. City staff has identified the following loplan process stalled for about a year, and in cations as ideal for distributing approximately 2,000 high-quality reusable plastic response, the city council appointed me and bags to Martinez residents: Vice Mayor Menesini to the general plan Farmers’ markets (Friday/Sunday) in April & May; Earth Day, April 26 (limited to subcommittee in August of 2013 to get the Martinez residents who RSVP for the city workshop, “Sustainable Citizen and Backprocess back on track. We then directed yard Composting”); city family recreation programs (e.g. Easter egg hunt; “Oohs, staff to reconvene the task force to discuss Aahs and Giggles”) in April, May & June; open house events at Martinez elementary schools on May 21; and open house event at Martinez Junior High School on the next steps to complete the process. May 22. City staff anticipates coordinating a second order of reusable plastic Vice Mayor Menesini and I held two bags this summer and identifying additional opportunities for distribution to Martimeetings with the task force, reviewing the nez residents later this year. progress of the document and taking input Waterfront Park Public Workshop from the draft that had been developed so A second public workshop on March 12 was held to guide the planning defar. They indicated a strong desire to remain sign process for the improvement of Waterfront Park. Draft plans that were deactive in the balance of the process, and we veloped with input from the first workshop and the Parks, Recreation, Marina and agreed. Cultural Commission (PRMCC) Subcommittee were reviewed. The design scope The current status of the update is that of the park includes softball fields, a soccer field, group and individual picnic areas, play areas, a large event lawn and five parking areas. The participants sugcity staff is reviewing a draft of the circulagested a layout with the soccer field located along the south edge of the park. tion element; the noise and air quality eleThis option would push the fields further from the houses to the south. Soccer repments are 80% complete; and the Environresentatives had requested the soccer field be lighted, and residents that live in mental Impact Report (EIR) is in process. the neighborhood of the park voiced their objection to lights and the noise assoCity staff continues to review comments ciated with activities at the park in the evening. A third workshop may be held by and submittals from task force members, the PRMCC Subcommittee prior to going to the full PRMCC and City Council. and when the remaining elements are comProfessional Baseball Team on Hold plete, additional meetings will be held with A City of Martinez press release dated March 14 stated, “Initial plans to bring the task force. in a professional team, the Martinez Clippers, to play during the 2014 season were To date, $650,000 has been expended, dependent on securing temporary lights, which was not a viable option due to excessive costs. The Martinez Waterfront Park facilities are expected to undergo with an expected $165,000 in additional extensive renovations, with consideration for additional seating, parking, and cost to complete the plan. Those are big new lighting using existing and planned funds from Measure H. Once construcnumbers, but not when you consider that tion of the Martinez Waterfront Park is complete, the city will then begin the prothe updated general plan will be our plan-

City News

Public Meetings City Council Meeting April 2,16 7pm-11pm Contact: 925-372-3500

Planning Commission Meeting April 8, 22 7-11pm Contact: 925-372-3500

Design Review Meeting April 9, 23 3-5pm Contact: 925-372-3500

Zoning Administrator Meeting April 2, 16 3-5pm Contact: 925-372-3500

All City Meetings at City Hall, 525 Henrietta Street, Unless Otherwise Indicated. For Confirmation Visit: www.cityofmartinez.org

posal review process for a permanent professional baseball team. Depending on the timeframe for the design and construction of the park, the Martinez Clippers baseball season could begin as early as June 2015 and run through August. If approved, the season will consist of 82 games, with approximately 41 games expected to be played in Martinez.” Despite the setback, the team is very committed to setting up in Martinez if it is approved by the city council.

Rankin Aquatic Center Honors The Rankin Aquatic Center was highlighted at the 2014 California Park and Recreation Society’s (CPRS) Conference in Ontario on March 5-7. The Aquatic Center was one of eight recreation facilities in California chosen for an award in the category of Park Planning. The pool was presented to approximately 600 recreation professionals at the opening session of the conference in a photo display called, “Best of the Best.”

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Pack 403 Derby Results

Cub Scout Pack 403 recently held their annual Pinewood Derby at Valhalla Elementary on March 14. The scouts had a great time cheering on the more than thirty derby cars that were entered for the races. A large crowd of family and friends were also on hand to enjoy this big event. Some of the entries included Ice Cream Sandwich, the Monster Energy, Sunfire, Red Machine, Tiki, and Ratatouille. Trophy winners included Cole Austin – 1st place, Lucas Funk - 2nd place, Ethan Freed - 3rd place, Aiden Hanak - Tiger Den, Brendon Hiles - Wolf Den, Alex Bartlett - Bear Den, Lance Savatgy – Webelos I Den; Hayden Davi - Outlaws group. Submitted by Donovan Heinlein.

April 2014

MDUSD Strike Averted

Mt. Diablo Education Association and Mt. Diablo Unified School District have reached agreement on a three-year contract. This contract returns medical coverage for members as well as provides on-going salary increases equal to 9.3% over the term of the agreement. President Guy Moore said on the MDEA Facebook page, “This contract sets the cornerstone for a new foundation for the district and was only possible with the support, hard work and courage of the school board, Superintendent Nellie Meyer, and the many members, parents, and community members who worked

tirelessly to build support for this change.” Part of the tentative agreement states: With the addition of the two professional development days, the 2014-15 work year will begin on Thursday, August 21. The first student day will be Monday, August 25. Professional development days are very important to district administrators who face state and federal requirements to ensure that educators receive certain amounts of training, especially with the implementation of Common Core. Ratification voting took place on March 18, 19, and 20.

Wine Tasting Benefit for MECC The public is invited to attend the Martinez Early Childhood Center (MECC) 35th annual wine tasting event to be held on Friday May 2nd from 5pm to 8pm at the Martinez Event Center 524 Main Street, Martinez. Come and enjoy fine wine, beer tasting/raffle, gourmet food, live music, raffle prizes, and silent auction! The $35.00 donation includes all you can drink and eat! The proceeds benefit the non-profit Early Education Programs at MECC, serving children and families in the Martinez and surrounding communities. For tickets or to make a donation please call 925-229-2000 or visit wine@martinezecc.org.

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April 2014

PLEASANT HILL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Please verify schedule at www.pleasanthillchamber.com • 925-687-0700

4/3 – Ribbon Cutting 5pm. Pacific Business Center, 3478 Buskirk Ave, Ste 1000, PH.

Community Room. 4/28 – Green Committee Meeting 4-5pm. Back Forty BBQ, 100 Coggins Drive, PH.

4/4 – Ambassador Meeting 8-9am. PH City Hall, Community Room.

4/28 – Govt. Affairs Committee Meeting 5:30-7pm. Back Forty BBQ, 100 Coggins Drive, PH.

4/8, 4/9, 4/10 & 4/22, 4/23, 4/24 – 680 Breakfast Club Networking 8:30-10am. Call Chamber office for information.

CALENDAR SPONSORED BY

4/10 – Business Mixer 5-7pm. Jack’s Restaurant, 60 Crescent Drive, PH. 4/8 – Leadership Lunch 11:45am. Magoo’s Grill, 1250 Contra Costa Blvd., PH. 4/17 – Board of Directors Meeting 8-9am. PH City Hall,

MARTINEZ CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Please verify schedule at www.martinezchamber.com • 925-228-2345

For More Information Regarding Ambassador Meeting – If interested in attending, contact (925) 228-2345 or email info@martinezchamber.com. 4/8 – Chamber Mixer – Tuesday, 5:30-7:30pm, Martinez Rotary & Roxx on Main, 627 Main Street, Martinez. Great networking, food, fun, raffle prizes (bring a raffle prize and have your business announced!) 4/26 – Citizen of the Year Awards Dinner – Saturday, 6-9pm at the Martinez Event Center, 524 Main St., Martinez. We will be honoring citizens

from the community for their contributions to the betterment of Martinez. For dinner tickets and more information call the Chamber at 925-228-2345. RSVP Required. CALENDAR SPONSORED BY

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Page 11

Martinez Citizens of the Year

The Martinez Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the recipients of the Citizen of the Year for 2013. Those being honored are individuals and a business that have served Martinez in extraordinary ways. This year’s winners are: Dick Duncan, Charles Laird Award; Andrea Blachman, Lifetime Achievement; Cassandra Campbell, Woman of the Year; John Curtis, Man of the Year; Audrey Lee, Educator/Teacher of the Year; Irene Merkel, Service Without Borders; Francisco Dona,Young Man of the Year; Crystal Willet, Ambassador of the Year; and Shell Oil, Business of the Year.

These outstanding recipients will be honored at the annual Citizen of the Year Awards Dinner on April 26th at 6:00 pm. The celebration will be held at the Martinez Events Center, 524 Main St., Martinez. Reservations are required and may be made by calling the Martinez Chamber of Commerce at 925-2282345. The Chamber of Commerce wishes to recognize and thank our partners in this event: Les Schwab Tires, The City of Martinez, Soroptimist Club, Lions Club, Rotary Club, Kiwanis Club, Main Street Martinez and Martinez Historical Society.

Star Quest 2014

For twenty-one years, Star Quest of Pleasant Hill has been bringing amazing performances by our youth to the

community, and its 22nd show at DVC Performing Arts Theatre on May 3 and 4 promises to be just as exciting. Since Star Quest began in 1992, its intent has been to provide a positive program where young people of Pleasant Hill, in grades K through 12, can showcase their artistic and theatrical talents. The show’s theme this year is “On the Town” and features music and performances from Broadway shows. Tickets are available at Pleasant Hill Rec & Park District Office and the Pleasant Hill Police Station. Call the show’s producer, Jim Nunes, at 689-2249 for further information. Star Quest is sponsored by the Rotary Club of Pleasant Hill.

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April 2014

Discover Downtown Martinez www.MainStreetMartinez.org

Hair and Skin Care Proudly featuring

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April 2014

Page 13

Discover Downtown Martinez Downtown Martinez

www.MainStreetMartinez.org

Spring Wine Stroll Saturday

Spend a relaxing afternoon strolling the tree-lined streets in downtown Martinez sipping wine at local businesses.

Purchase tickets in advance at these locations Cash or Check only: AtticChild FUNiture 653 Main St. Leah’s Closet 831 Main St. Main Street Martinez 649 Main St., Suite 106

Purchase tickets with a credit card at MainStreetMartinez.org Redeem advanced purchase tickets or buy tickets at the event beginning at 2pm at either these locations: Martinez Gallery, 630 Court St. or Main Street Martinez, 649 Main St.

May 3, 2014

2:00-5:30pm

$15 per person in advance $20 at the event

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Includes tasting glass, wine glass charm, wine tasting passport, and map.

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For more information call (925) 228-3577 or visit mainstreetmartinez.org

Must be 21 years or older to participate. No refunds.

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2014 Martinez Peddlers Faires in Downtown Martinez Sat., May 17 AND Sat., Aug. 2 8:00am to 4:00pm

A Main Street Martinez Event Featuring over 150 booths along Main St. & Ferry St. John Humphries, collectibles author, radio and tv host, will evaluate your treasures (up to 3 carry-in items) for a $5 donation to the Martinez Historical Society. At Main St. & Ferry St. - All Day!

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The Role of a Trustee By Daniel DuRee ies as well as a successor trustee or This month I am going to talk a co-trustees. It is the successor trustee little more about the office of trustee. which owes certain legal duties to the While some people are familiar with new trust beneficiaries. This list is not the concept of a trust, many do not comprehensive and some of these duunderstand the role of a trustee or the ties may be altered by the actual trust duties that accompany the position. instrument. Becoming a trustee Duty to administer the trust First, here is some background On acceptance of the trust, the about becoming a trustee. A person trustee has a duty to administer the named as a trustee or co-trustee does trust according to the trust instrument. not automatically become one by law. For a revocable trust this generally A person may either accept or reject means the successor trustee must get the position. A named trustee or sucthe assets together, settle any outstandcessor trustee accepts the position by ing liabilities and make the listed either signing the trust document, distributions to the beneficiaries. signing a separate written acceptance, Duty of loyalty to trust beneficiaries or by knowingly exercising powers The trustee has a duty to adminisor performing duties under the trust instrument. Once a person accepts the ter the trust solely in the interest of the beneficiaries and never for his or her position of trustee, they owe certain own personal profit. duties to the current beneficiaries of Duty to inform beneficiaries the trust. The trustee has a duty to keep Duties of a trustee beneficiaries of the trust reasonably The trustee of a trust can be informed of the trust and its adminisanalogized to the CEO of a corporatration. This includes a duty to provide tion. The trustee is the manager of the the terms of the trust to a beneficiary. trust and is legally bound to carry out Although acting as a trustee may the purpose of the trust on behalf of the beneficiaries. This is similar to how sound daunting, it is fairly straightfora CEO carries out the purpose of a cor- ward when approached methodically. poration on behalf of the shareholders. If you have any questions about being a trustee or choosing a successor trusLike a CEO, a trustee has certain legal duties they owe to the trust beneficiar- tee, please do not hesitate to call; I will be happy to talk with you about it. ies. Daniel L. DuRee is a third genera When a revocable trust is created, tion resident of Contra Costa County the creators of the trust are both the and a licensed attorney practicing in trustees and the beneficiaries as long Walnut Creek. He can be reached at as they are both alive and competent. (925) 210-1400 or visit www.DuReeLUpon the death of the original trust aw.com. creator(s) there are new beneficiar-

IN FOCUS•IN FOCUS•IN FOCUS•IN FOCUS•IN FOCUS•IN FOCUS

Law Office of Daniel L. DuRee

Trust, Estate Planning, and Probate Law This month we highlight Dan DuRee, the owner and managing attorney of the Law Office of Daniel L. DuRee. Dan is also a monthly contributor to Community Focus. He grew up in Contra Costa County and graduated from De La Salle High School. After spending some time in Southern California, where he earned his bachelor’s degree from UCLA, he returned to the Bay Area for law school, acquiring his Juris Doctor’s degree from The University of California Hastings College of the Law. Dan’s Walnut Creek based practice focuses almost exclusively on trusts, estate planning, and probate related issues. Dan expands on what drew him to this specific area of the law. “I really enjoy the client interaction and the ability to help people finish something they have often been putting off for a long time. Estate planning sometimes falls to the bottom of a person’s ‘to do’ list, but it is rewarding to see the relief a client feels when they get things properly set up and truly understand the plan they have in place and how it will function.” Over the course of multiple meet-

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ings, either in his office or at a client’s home, Dan listens to his client’s needs and explains different issues that will inevitably arise given their particular situation and family dynamics. It is this dedication to drafting a custom estate plan for every family that gives Dan’s clients peace of mind that things will be handled smoothly according to their wishes. In addition to drafting and amending trust and will-based estate plans for clients, Dan also assists clients with administering trusts and navigating probate if necessary when someone has passed away. Dan notes, “When you are working with clients in the trust administration and probate process, it really clarifies what the planning issues are.” Assisting clients who are managing a deceased person’s estate has made Dan a vehement advocate of proper planning. While estate planning sounds daunting, with knowledgeable guidance from an experienced attorney, it can actually be a rewarding process. Dan feels blessed to have his practice located in the local community where he grew up and looks forward to serving his clients here for the next thirty years and beyond.

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April 2014

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TRUSTS • WILLS • PROBATE

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April 2014

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Host Families Wanted for Exchange Students Each year, Rotary districts worldwide arrange more than 9,000 international youth exchanges for secondary school students. A primary goal of the program is to foster world understanding and peace through intercultural exchange. This year, the Rotary Club of Pleasant Hill has been thrilled to host Rita Gebert from Austria. Rita will be returning home in July with a wide range of experiences and a very strong grasp of the English language under her belt. Our club is hoping to sponsor another Youth Exchange student for the 2014-2015 College Park High School year. The student will arrive in mid August and return to his or her native country in mid July 2015. The Rotary Club of Pleasant Hill is looking for volunteer families to host this student for a 3-1/2 to 4-month period for the fall, winter, and spring. Host families come in all shapes and sizes that might include young children, older children, or no children at all. Like other Rotarysponsored youth exchange students, this student will be provided a monthly allowance by Rotary. As a host family, you will be asked to provide the student with a safe, nonthreatening, respectful, and appropriate home environment where they have their own bed (they may share a room, but only with a sibling of the same gender and around the same age), a private area to study, and daily meals. In addition to providing room and board, host parents

are expected to exercise general parental supervision, as would the student’s own parents. Make her or him part of your family! Youth Exchange promises to enrich the lives of the student and every member of your family. Not only will you provide an unforgettable service to a student from abroad, you also will educate your family about the world around them. The opportunity allows you, as a host family, to become familiar with another culture and provides you the opportunity to share a young student’s hopes and ambitions. An exchange student stays in your lives for a while, but will stay in your hearts forever. In addition, Rotary sponsors outbound students to live abroad in one of 188 countries with Rotary host families, anywhere from a few months to an entire year. If your student has an interest, please contact us today to learn more. The Rotary Youth Exchange program is for students 15 to 18 years old. We find the majority of American students choose to go right after they graduate high school. Most colleges will hold the student’s admission slot because the exchange experience makes students more prepared for college. For more information about this wonderful life-enriching opportunity, please contact Jennifer Grossi at the Rotary Club of Pleasant Hill on (925) 285-1004 or jennifergrossi@grossigroup.com.

HITCHCOCK PROPERTIES Contact The Hitchcock Team for your Sales & Purchasing needs at 925.397.4000 • Nathan@HitchTeam.com www.HitchTeam.com

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Rotary Club President Michael Saenz, club member Jennifer Grossi, and Rita Gebert, exchange student from Austria.

www.ourcommunityfocus.com

Page 16

April 2014

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Page 17

Chester to Tule Lake Leaving Greenville in Plumas County, you climb slowly through thick, verdant forests of pine and fir. Primarily known for its working forestlands and log trucks, this stretch of highway is slow going. As you approach Lake Almanor, the highway splits and the east-side road winds through the array of vacation and recreation sites. I recommend staying to the left/west side as the highway emerges out of the dense forest at Greenville and into the highlands and plateau country on top of the world. For what seems like many miles, you travel along a straight, runway-like highway between forest and lake, your eyes fixed on the fast approaching, flat-topped mountain peak/volcano of Mt Lassen. Traveling at freeway speeds in sight of a very large volcano aside a very large lake is both breathtaking and surreal. Highway 89 comes to a logical end at Hwy 36 and the mountain community of Chester. You can head west down the mountain to Red Bluff and I-5 or east to Susanville and points north to Alturas, including Adin and Tule Lake (the route we took). Chester is a gateway spot serving points west, east, south and north. Heading east to Susanville, you definitely sense a place of transition as the surrounding country begins to change its skin from green forest to brown high desert; patches of trees thin, while oak, sage, woodland and scrub environments rule the landscape. If your vehicle is suitable for mild, off-road activities, a side trip worth exploring is the beautiful forest road just east of Chester. Head north after crossing the little bridge east of town onto the ChesterWarner highway toward Drakesbad (www. drakesbad.com), a remote mountain resort on the east side of Mt Lassen, about 17 miles from Chester. The road is smooth for 13 miles and then turns into rubble dirt (ok for pick-ups and higher clearance vehicles only). The first ¾ of the journey is pure delight as you approach Mt. Lassen, traveling through dense forest and open, mountain meadowland. If you and your vehicle are well rested and fueled, I suggest heading east along Hwy 36/44 toward Susanville. You can

Story and Photos by Christopher Vardas take a forest road (A1/201 Eagle Lake Rd) tank when leaving Susanville. north to -- you guessed it -- Eagle Lake North of Adin, Hwy 299 continues and ultimately Hwy 139. Like the other northeast to Alturas. Hwy 139 junctions roads before it, this is a side road, to be northwest to the volcanic highlands east of taken only in good weather and (this is Mt Shasta and flood plains of the mighty important) only if you have the time. The Klamath Valley and Tule Lakes area. reward, of course, is unparalleled views Sparse pine of the Lassen National Forest of seldom-seen country along slightly dominates the landscape as the road winds traveled country roads. If you prefer to stay its way through color-rich and picturon conventional, fast-moving roads, stay esque, stream-fed valleys and meadows. the course on to Susanville. If you have not Keep a watchful eye out for migrating deer already fueled your car, do so now. Services north from here are few and far between. Most of Susanville’s recent fast food and gas station development is just a mile east of downtown. Susanville is another gateway town as you can venture north, as we did, or south to Reno or northeast to the most remote corner of California, Alturas. Now, for another type of road adventure: Hwy 139 north from Susanville is one amazingly beautiful, if not scary, ride up a steep road with stunning views of the desert to the east and town to the south. Once you reach the plateau of this road, it winds beautifully through slight desert-dry forestlands, ranch country, beautiful green valleys and wide-open vistas unlike any you have seen. Hwy 139 is a treat for the senses. Before long, you will travel alongside Eagle Lake (watch for hawks and eagles along this stretch of highway). Once a favorite for gambling buses from Klamath Falls, Oregon, to Reno, this stretch of highway traverses the eastern high country. At the junction of Hwy 299 and 136 lies the little town of Adin. The road offers lovely views of pastoral lands, woodland and meadows as it winds it’s way northward along the backside of Mt Lassen and Mt Shasta. There is an unmistakable sense that life here is a bit more hard and less forgiving: snow and winter’s cold lingers longer, summers are long and dry. The countryside is strewn with cattle ranches and farms; this is cowboy country and worthy of writers and photographers seeking the romance of tired barns, wooden fences, meandering streams and, from the looks of the area, a few forgotten dreams. Services are slight here, so approaching this country should be done on a full stomach and full

feeding in the early morning and late afternoons. The roads from Susanville to Tule Lake are good quality highways that offer numerous pullouts for landscape appreciation, photography and one of the richest birding areas in all of California. Final Installment: Lava Beds National Monument and Tule Lakes Birding View more of Christopher and Elaine’s photos at www.vardasphotography.com.

Page 18

HOME TEAM DVC Hall of Fame Director Steve Ward and the Diablo Valley College Athletic Hall of Fame inducted its tenth annual class in late February. The honorees included: Sandy Johnson-Shaw (Track & Field, 1979-81) set records and specialized in shot put, discus and javelin. Thirty years after leaving DVC, she still holds the school record in the shot put and was state runner-up in 1981. Ryan Nohr (Baseball, 1998 & 2000), a record setting slugger who earned unanimous All-Bay Valley and All-American honors. He still holds numerous school season and career records. Monica Metcho-Perkins (Gymnastics, 1981-82) is the greatest all-around female gymnast in school history. As a frosh, she finished third in the state, and in 1982 she became the only female in school history to win the coveted state gymnastics All-Around title. 1982 Women’s Gymnastics Team (State Runner-Up) members included: Monica Metcho, Kathy McFetridge, Karen Atwater, Mary Miller and Amy Bolz. The head coach was Jack Smith. 1989 Football Team (Undefeated Regular Season) Won Golden Gate Conference Championship (6-0) and became the only undefeated regular season football team in school history (1951 to present), finishing 10-0. The head coach was Ed Hall. Notes on Locals Alhambra alum Robert Stephenson was one of the few non-roster players invited to the Cincinnati Red’s spring training camp in Goodyear, Arizona. Stephenson is slated to begin 2014 in the Minor League, but the Reds have big plans for the 21-year-old. Baseball America now ranks Stephenson as the No. 19 prospect in all of baseball. In addition, he is the highest ranking player projected to make his Major League debut in the 2015 season. Stephenson, a hard-throwing right-hander, could exceed everyone’s expectations and arrive later this year. Barbara Bridwell of Martinez has incorporated a new hobby into her workout regimen – weightlifting. In late February, Bridwell took part in the NorCal Power-

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April 2014

Season Ticket By Chuck Nan to NCAA transfer regulations. She played in the 220-pound division. The senior lifting (NCP) Challenge, held at Sports at Davis for two seasons. moves on to the state meet with a gaudy Basement in Walnut Creek. NCP strives to 31-2 record for the season. be an integral part of a drug-free powerAnd in Wrestling lifting experience where officials, staff and Grappler Quentin Wright of Alhamathletes strive to compete with character bra is the latest NCS wrestling champion and good sportsmanship. Bridwell set new personal bests in the bench press and dead-lift portions of the The College Park Boys Lacrosse team attended the “Play by the Bay” tournament competition en route to winning her age/ in Watsonville on March 1 and walked away with 2nd place and the first trophy for the weight group. Bridwell is also the women’s team. Led by Coach Drew Welch, the team is off to a great start, winning the season’s record holder for her age/weight group in first game against Alhambra. With the team’s most recent win against Northgate, their those two categories. Photo by Carolyn Diggs. record stands at 4 – 2. On the Hardwood Scene Beau Levesque, a senior at St. Mary’s College, was named a Third-Team selection to the 2013-14 Capital One Academic All America team. In addition, he was a First-Team All-District 8 honoree. Levesque is only the third SMC basketball player ever to earn Academic All-America honors. Natalie Romeo, a senior at Carondelet, has announced that she has signed a National Letter of Intent to attend the University of Nebraska next year. Romeo is in her fourth year as the starting point guard for the Cougars varsity basketball team and is the reigning EBAL MVP. Romeo is on pace to be Carondelet’s all time assist and steals leader and has emerged into the top three all-time in scoring. Romeo’s teammate, Marcella Hughes, a junior, has provided verbal commitA BAY AREA FAVORITE SINCE 1946 ment to Loyola Marymount University and will play there starting in 2015-16. Hughes will be in familiar company when she gets to LMU; her brother, Hunter, attends the school, and Cougar teamThanks for voting us mate Makenzie Cast will also be heading Best BBQ and there. Accomplished off the court as well, Best Sandwiches! Hughes reportedly has a 3.9 grade point average and would like to study business Catering available for pick-up, delivery or on-site and psychology in college. Holiday Parties • Business Luncheons Corporate Events Taylor Berry, a 5-10 forward who Martinez 536 Center Ave started her prep career at Alhambra, has 925-957-1400 had a pretty good three-year stint at St. Pleasant Hill, 2227 Morello Ave, 925-798-2333 Mary’s College High School (Albany). Concord, 1776 Arnold Industrial Way, 925-825-2333 The senior has committed to play at Santa Walnut Creek, 1293 Parkside Dr, Clara University. Berry averages nearly 925-952-9000 Walnut Creek, 1831 Ygnacio Valley Rd. eight points and two assists per game for 925-952-9393 the highly-ranked Cougars. Emily Vann has decided to transfer from UC Davis to San Jose State after two seasons. She is sitting-out the season due

CP Varsity Lacrosse

www.kindersbbq.com

April 2014

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Falcons Soar with Pride Article and Photo Submitted by Justin Pitcher The College Park High School swim enthusiasm and use that in the pool. You team turned Falcon spirit into Falcon pride, can’t require that enthusiasm. It was really winning the coveted Team Spirit Award at great to see them swim together as a team the 14th Annual Woodcreek High School for the first time. They cheered for other Swim Invitational in Roseville, where twen- teams as well as their own, and for new ty high school teams gathered to compete swimmers. That encouragement brought on March 7 and 8. During their first year out great swim performances.” competing at the Woodcreek invitational, Back home, excitement and enthuthe Falcons raised morale throughout the siasm remains high. “It was my first and meet with their phenomenal expression of best swim meet ever. The swimming was camaraderie and sportsmanship. awesome!” said Kai Barnes, a Falcon water “We witnessed something very special polo player who decided to try swimming this weekend,” said Head Coach Vicky this year Dewey. “Our team had many stellar break As College Park swimmers embark out swims, but way beyond the strength of on their regular season, they have already one individual was the sense that the team learned a valuable life lesson: With the catapulted and elevated our athletes to great power of encouragement and positive swims.” Nearly every swimmer achieved a morale, the team as a whole is greater than personal best time, and freshman/sophothe sum of its individual members. When more boys placed 3rd overall. the Falcons received the Team Spirit Award, Falcon swimmers encouraged other the meet announcer aptly summed up the teams and created new bonds and friendextent of Falcon spirit: “It was undeniable ships. Coach Sarah Dolphin said, “As a from start to finish: It was College Park all coach, I try to encourage swimmers to gain the way!”

HOME TEAM

Opening Day

The Cardinals baseball team of the Martinez Youth Baseball & Softball League, marched down Main Street in the 18th annual Opening Day parade March 8 in Photo by Rebecca Seidenspinner. Martinez.

Winter 2014 High School All-League Selections ALHAMBRA Boys and Girls Soccer 1st Team: Juan Sanchez and Dara Stroup 2nd Team: Dominic Weir and Lexy Swenson Honorable Mention: Nick Goulding, Austin Guard, Mario Matute, Lindsay Wells, Nikki Rucki and Kaitlyn Emigh

dez, Katie McLaughlin, Torez Ramsey and Jackie Scharff 2nd Team: Scott Hroza, Brennan Williams, Melissa Kastell, Kendall Marsh and Brianna Vasser Honorable Mention: Erick Avalos, Nick Golubics, Alexandra Gonzalez and Dominike Tambazidis

Boys and Girls Basketball Information unavailable at press time

Boys and Girls Basketball 1st Team: Joe Demers and Kyla Miller 2nd Team: Jeff Mitchell and Katrina Guytingco Honorable Mention: Taryn Niederberger and Melanie Ramirez

Wrestling 1st Team: Avi Buyuker, Max Licht and Quentin Wright Honorable Mention: Luis Haefke, Danny Martinez, Vince Viglienzone, Paul Bromley and Alex Contreras

Basketball Champs

The 8th grade basketball team from Pleasant Hill Middle School went undefeated at Piedmont High School where the league playoffs were held March 8. The team brought home the 1st place trophy garnering the title of League Champions.

Page 19

COLLEGE PARK Boys and Girls Soccer Player of the Year: Mary Stammers Defensive MVP: Jessica Jordan 1st Team: Joey Brauer, Missael Hernan-

Wrestling 1st Team: Kailen Kelly, Nate Prado, Gabe Lomas, Danny Croff, Romello Monjaras, Marc Wilhelm, Daniel Prast, William Stockdale, Matthew Zachery and Will Faraghan, 2nd Team: Gavin Hughes, Honorable Mention: Kellen Bomar

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Page 20

CORKS AND FORKS

April 2014

Pair Up With La Sommelierre Maria Terry

Spring Fling This month I throw caution to the wind and suggest a menu entirely based on cocktail pairings. Cocktails can be a challenge to pair with foods because of their high alcohol content. This is why they are usually served with salted nuts; salt tames the heat of the alcohol. I have chosen two drinks that have additional non-alcoholic ingredients, which make them more food friendly. And, there is a strong cheese to complement a strong drink at the end of the meal. Although our local berries have not yet

come into season, blackberries from South America are fairly well priced and readily available in California. Start your evening off with a Blackberry Thyme Bramble, the perfect blend of sweet fruit, lemony thyme and woodsy gin. This refreshing gin-based drink is an excellent choice to pair with a creamy goat cheese spread on salty crackers. Both the cheese and the drink are tangy and light. A hearty entrée of cuban pork roast with red beans and rice (recipe on www. LaSommelierre.com) should be classically paired with its brethren, the mojito. The

Cuban Pork Roast INGREDIENTS 2 teaspoons cumin powder 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 4 cloves garlic, chopped 2 teaspoons salt 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1/3 cup orange juice 1/3 cup dry sherry 3 tablespoons lemon juice 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice 2 tablespoons olive oil 4 pounds pork shoulder, trimmed and tied DIRECTIONS Make a paste with cumin, pepper, garlic, salt, and oregano. You can also do this in the small bowl of a food processor. Transfer to a small bowl, and stir in orange juice,

lime juice, lemon juice, sherry, and olive oil. Place the pork in a large resealable plastic bag. Pour citrus marinade over meat, and seal. Refrigerate for 12 to 24 hours, turning the bag over occasionally. Preheat the oven to 325˚. Transfer pork and marinade to a roasting pan, and place in the oven. Roast for about 2 1/2 hours, basting with pan juices occasionally, or until an instant read thermometer inserted in the center reads 145˚. Add small amounts of water to the pan if it dries out. Transfer the pork to a carving board, cover loosely with foil, and let rest for 15 minutes. Carve, and serve. Yield: 8 servings

Blackberry Thyme Bramble INGREDIENTS 2 oz. gin (London dry style) 1 oz. fresh lemon juice 1 oz. thyme-infused simple syrup 1/4 cup fresh blackberries Club soda Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish Thyme-infused simple syrup 1/2 cup sugar 1/2 cup water 3 sprigs fresh thyme DIRECTIONS For the syrup: Place the sugar, water and thyme sprigs into small saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Use the spoon to lightly crush the thyme sprigs in the sugar syrup. Heat until the sugar has dissolved in the water. Do NOT

let it come to a boil! Remove from the heat and let cool to room temperature. Remove the thyme sprigs and pour the syrup into a small container and store it in the refrigerator. It should last for a few months in the fridge. For the cocktail: In a tall glass, pour in your thyme-infused simple syrup and the blackberries. Using a muddler or a long spoon, crush the berries into the sugar syrup. Add the lemon juice and thymeinfused simple syrup. Mix with a long spoon. Next, fill up the rest of your glass with ample ice, add the gin and top with club soda. Stir briefly and serve with fresh thyme springs and a few whole blackberries as garnish. Yield: 1 Drink

mojito, Cuba’s national cocktail, gets its name from the African word mojo, which means, “to cast a spell.” Keep in mind, making mojitos in a pitcher doesn’t work—it’s impossible to distribute the lime and mint evenly, plus, the club soda tends to turn flat. Instead, muddle a large batch of mint, limes and sugar, and then pour the mixture into glasses and top with ice, rum and club soda. Finish off your meal with a classic pairing of sweet, salty and savory. Blue cheese, which is made all over the world, is a bold partner to stand up to the potent

crispness of an appletini (recipe on www. LaSommelierre.com). Furthermore, sliced apples are convenient vehicles for eating cheese. Serve a plate of sliced apples with your appletini and include a couple varieties of blues: Stilton (English), Roquefort (French), Gorgonzola (Italian), Cabrales (Spanish) and the eponymous, blue cheese from the US. So, go on. Pair Up! Maria Terry is a Certified Sommelier and Wine Educator in the San Francisco Bay Area. www.LaSommelierre.com.

Mojito

INGREDIENTS 1/2 lime, cut into 4 pieces 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, torn, plus 1 mint sprig for garnish 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon granulated sugar Ice cubes 1/4 cup (2 ounces) white rum 1/2 cup club soda, chilled

DIRECTIONS In a tall glass, muddle the pieces of lime with the mint leaves and sugar until the sugar is dissolved. Fill the glass with ice and stir in the rum and club soda. Garnish with the mint sprig and serve right away. Yield: 1 Drink

April 2014

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Page 21

It Happens Every 15 Minutes: A Graphic Simulation

In partnership with the community of Pleasant Hill, College Park High School orchestrated an intense and powerful reenactment of a drunk driving automobile accident as part of a two-day educational program for high school juniors and seniors. Every 15 Minutes was conceived in 1990 when, statistically, one alcohol-related traffic fatality occurred in the United States every fifteen minutes. On March 25, individual students were removed from a classroom every

fifteen minutes to become one of the “living dead.” A simulated drunk driving crash involving pre-selected students was staged, and a 911 call triggered local police, firefighters and paramedics to respond. The emotional demonstration ended with one student being air-lifted on a CALSTAR medical helicopter to John Muir Hospital and another “critically injured” student taken via ambulance to Kaiser of Walnut Creek. A third student was “pronounced dead” at the scene and removed by the coroner, while

Photo By Susan Wood, susanwoodphotography.com

a fourth student was “arrested” and taken to jail for vehicular manslaughter and driving under the influence. A simulated memorial service was held in the gym the following day. Juniors and seniors watched a video of the previous day’s events leading up to the crash, and several of the “living dead” shared letters they wrote to their parents expressing their thoughts of what it felt like to die without having the chance to say good-bye. A guest speaker shared a heart-wrenching personal experience of

an alcohol related crash. The assembly and the program concluded with a call to action, challenging everyone present to make responsible choices when alcohol is involved. Held bi-annually, Every 15 Minutes involves ten months of planning by devoted staff, parent volunteers and the community at large in order to create awareness among students that they are not invincible. It is an uncomfortably close opportunity to feel the consequences of drinking and driving.

Photo By Susan Wood, susanwoodphotography.com

COMMUNITY FOCUS SPRING AND SUMMER ACTIVITY GUIDE 2014

Spring and Summer Activity Guide Get Fit, Get Wet, Get Happy With Water Aerobics By Andrea Legault Ahhh… summer. It’s just around the corner. Here in Contra Costa County, summer often means scorching heat and profuse perspiration, and neither is conducive to any sort of exercise regimen. This is why water aerobics is such a wonderful alternative. There are so many benefits; it’s difficult to know where to begin. According to the Center for Disease Control, “Water-based exercise can help people with chronic diseases such as arthritis and fibromyalgia. It can decrease anxiety and depression and improve mood. It can improve the health of mothers and their unborn children.” But wait! There’s more! Water provides buoyancy for the body, improving flexibility and range of mo-

tion. It supports up to 80% of your weight, making it less likely for muscle, bone, or joints to get injured while you exercise. Water aerobics has proven to be extremely beneficial for cardiovascular conditioning as well. Because it increases breathing and heart rate, it helps control blood pressure. Dismiss any ideas you may have about water exercise being an “old person’s workout.” Instructors come with all kinds of backgrounds and offer not just basic aerobics but boot camp, Zumba, cardio kick and more to a population that might not take these classes on land. Needless to say, many calories are burned: approximately 450 to 700 calories in one hour. If you want to shed those extra kilos, water aerobics is the

HSC ACADEMY Boys & Girls 4-9 yrs Contact Hugo La Torre at HeritageSC.com

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As if all this weren’t enough, water aerobics is really fun! On a hot summer day (or even when it isn’t so hot) the sense of community that comes from joining others in this great exercise is wonderful. I’ve been a certified water aerobics instructor for eleven years and can attest to the delightful camaraderie that develops among the participants. Don’t have another miserable, sweaty workout! Andrea LeGault teaches water aerobics in many East Bay locales. Her classes at Rankin Aquatic Center in Martinez will start up again this May. Contact her at adlegault@sbcglobal.net.

ACADEMY WATER POLO Spring Session March 3 – May 4, 2014 DVC and De La Salle High School Pools Registration for Boys and Girls All Ages 10U and 5-6th Grade 7-8th Grade and High School

For Register and all other information go to at www.academypolo.com! Sibling and Referrals Discounts Available

Girls Teams: April 2 & 9 U15 & U16 ~ 7-8:30pm U17 & U18 ~ 8:30-10pm Boys Teams: April 3 & 10 U15 & U16 ~ 7-8:30pm U17 & U18 ~ 8:30-10pm

SO

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Info & Registration at HeritageSC.com

ACADEMY WATER POLO TOURNAMENTS • SCRIMMAGES • FUNDAMENTALS SMALL ATHLETE TO COACH RATIO A PLACE FOR ALL LEVELS OF PLAY! Questions? Go to web site at www.academypolo.com • E-mail academypolo@gmail.com See Policy Information on Website

COMMUNITY FOCUS SPRING AND SUMMER ACTIVITY GUIDE 2014 Martinez Recreation Camps and Events

Soccer: Thursdays May 8 - May 29, 3:30-4:15pm.

Dino Dig (Waterfront Park) April 24, 3:30-4:45pm for ages 3 - 6 years. Bring your junior paleontologist to Waterfront Park to dig for dinosaur bones and make fun dino crafts.

Tee Ball: Tuesdays May 6 - May 27, 3:30-4:15pm.

Mini Motorland (John Muir Amphitheater) April 12, 10am-12pm for ages 2 - 6 years. Parents bring a camera and your child’s favorite riding toy. Snacks will be served to all drivers.

Build engineer-designed projects such as boats, bridges, mazes and motorized cars.

Spring Training Preschool for ages 3 - 6 years at Tavan Field, 100 Buckley Street. Preschool Tee ball will introduce your young athlete to the skills needed to play in a baseball league. Future baseball stars will learn rules, how to run the bases, hitting techniques and good sportsmanship. Preschool Soccer will introduce your future soccer stars to dribble, kick a goal, and positive sportsmanship.

Playwell Camp (Nancy Boyd Park) Pre-Engineering June 23 - June 27, 9am-12pm for ages 5 - 8 years.

Engineering FUNdmentals June 23 - June 27, 1-4pm for ages 5 - 8 years. Dig into engineering with big trucks, construction vehicles, and super machines. Explore the engineering terms, concepts, and vocabulary behind large-scale building machines. Ninjaneering using LEGOS June 30 - July 3, 9am-12pm for ages 8 - 13 years. Learn the way of Spinjitzu, build the Fire Temple, race Skull Trucks, and encounter the mighty Dragon! Ninjaneetring Masters using LEGOs June 30 - July 3, 1-4pm for ages 8 - 13 years. Motorize your Blade Cycle, design the Dark Fortress, and hone your Spinjitzu battle skills in this advanced LEGO camp.

Enroll now for our

SUMMER CAMPS! For more information visit www.bgcdv.org email: kbyram@bgcdv.org (925) 231-1170

View the Activity Guide and register for classes at www.cityofmartinez.org or by calling 925-372-3510.

Boys and Girls Club of Diablo Valley Boys & Girls Clubs of the Diablo Valley has been an integral part of the Martinez community and surrounding area for more than 50 years, providing services to thousands of young people. Our mission is to enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their fullest potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens. Our Club works collaboratively to fulfill our mission through ongoing partnerships with families, volunteers, educators, businesses and community leaders to offer quality after-school and summer programs at little or no cost to families – a fact that sets us apart from other after-school programs.

Devil Mountain Cyclery Evening Mountain Bike Rides start Wednesday nights in May. We meet at the shop at 6:30pm and determine the type of ride based on attendees. Rides vary each week. Contact our shop for group ride information, training, and all other questions about our cycling community at Call 925-932-7477.

Martinez Recreation

Has it All!

Beautifully remodeled parks for picnics and play. Awesome playground, program, sports camps, classes and special events! Our Award Winning Rankin Aquatic Center offers lap swimming, swim lessons, pool parties and more. Pool opens May 1 for limited programs and hours. Rec swim begins Saturday, May 31.

CHECKOUT

Oohs, Ahs and Giggles

A series of free children’s performances on Wednesdays beginning May 7 at 3:30pm at Martinez City Hall.

Visit www.cityofmartinez.org or call Martinez Recreation at 925-372-3510

COMMUNITY FOCUS SPRING AND SUMMER ACTIVITY GUIDE 2014

Summer Fun Begins Here! Adventure Daycamp .9

Build It! with LEGO速 - NEW!

Youth Recreation Camp Full Day Option Full Day Option

Full Day Option

Day Trips & Excursions for Teens! Explore your world!

4

Sciensational Workshops for Kids - NEW! 6 -11 yrs

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April 2014

Page 25

THE GARDEN

Colorful Vegetables Prolific in Spring My oldest sister was born on April Fool’s Day, so we were all well versed in silly trickery and jokes on her special day, not necessarily aimed at her, but at all of us. Coming from a family with endless siblings, we entertained ourselves well and constantly with abundant pranks and jokes. The boys were

LAW OFFICES OF

LAUREN SMYKOWSKI

By Lesley Stiles the worst, and whether it was a brother, Walking the ‘hood most evenings with cousin or uncle, there was a tendency my mom, we love looking at all the Eastoward the gross fetes -- a frog down the ter yards overflowing with pastel-colored back of a tee shirt or rubber snake sheflowering trees and bulbs. Pink camelnanigans – along with a wicked twinkle lias, tulips, lilac scented breezes and emanating from the eyes. The girls exthe promise of the pool opening soon pressed sweeter mischievousness in the -- spring has always been hardcore here, form of hiding a favored bra or locking with summer just around the corner. the bedroom window so you couldn’t Since we are officially in a drought, crawl back in come dawn. Even so, we water conservation is a big topic. Nonealways loved the beginning of April. theless, it is still a good idea to get that summer garden in along with an efficient drip system to keep it going. As relaxing as it is to stand outside come dusk and check out your babies while waterPLAN INCLUDES: ing them with a garden hose, it uses a lot TRUST AGREEMENT more water than what is needed. As I sit POUR OVER WILL here penning this missive on March 14, GUARDIANSHIP the gardener guy on PBS is telling me it is TRANSFER OF REAL PROPERTY okay to put my tomatoes in. Seems early, HEALTH CARE DIRECTIVE but these are strange weather days indeed. Farmers’ market tables are literally 1255 treat blvd. ste 300 walnut creek, ca 94597 bowing under luscious piles of asparagus, www.smykowskilaw.com leeks, spring garlic, potatoes, amazingly sweet, oh so dainty spring onions, and so much more. We are picking greens from our gardens and sautéing them with garlic or adding them to protein shakes like there is no tomorrow. After a long winter of broccoli and cauliflower, moving into asparagus season is almost illegal in the pleasure gained from a simple steam and crack of sea salt or a sizzle on a hot grill with a drizzle of lemon oil. Carrots are crazy in season now as well. In conversations where carrots are mentioned, visions of those prolific but bizarre orange baby thumbs from the grocery come up. They are not a good

representation of this amazing taproot family that boasts parsley, fennel, dill and cumin among its kin. Gently excavating your homegrown carrot from loamy earth and devouring it warm from the sun can be a religious experience. Next best is purchasing at your farmers’ markets with perky chartreuse fringe intact, plainly displaying degree of freshness. Recognizably orange, inside and out, carrots also come in purple, white, yellow and red, with shades bordering on fluorescent to dazzle the eye as well as sweetly captivate the tongue. Reunite relatives by slicing carrots thin, tossing with toasted, ground cumin seed, olive oil and lemon and completing with a shower of finely chopped parsley and crumbled feta. Jazz up crudités by grilling slices of variously hued carrots, spring onions, asparagus and peas napped with tarragon and chive vinaigrette or a yummy homemade hummus dip. Have I mentioned carrot cake frosted with honey-vanilla cream cheese icing? A perfectly healthy treat! The local hills have all greened up with abundant and showy wildflowers along the trails and in the canyons, beckoning road weary travelers to enjoy the magnificence and peace our ridges have to offer in the simple joy of a walk. Happy Spring! 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.

Carrot Ginger Soup Ingredients:

5 carrots, chopped 1 onion, chopped 1 clove garlic, chopped 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, chopped

Directions:

4 cups stock 2 tablespoons rice vinegar ½ cup crème fraiche Salt and pepper to taste

Sauté carrots, onion and garlic in olive oil in tall soup pot for 5 minutes. Add stock and vinegar and simmer until carrots are tender. Puree and season with salt and pepper. Garnish w/ crème fraiche. Makes 6 Cups

Page 26

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April 2014

In the Mix

PAUL’S PICKS FOR APRIL April 3: Ken Cooper, Rocco’s Pizzeria, 2909 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek, 8pm April 4: Lumberyard, Vinnie’s Bar and Grill, 2045 Mt. Diablo Street, Concord, 9pm April 11: The Big Jangle, Back Forty BBQ, 100 Coggins Drive, Pleasant Hill, 7pm April 12: Caroompas Room, Armando’s, 707 Marina Vista, Martinez, 8pm April 13: Tender Mercies, Armando’s, 707 Marina Vista, Martinez, 4pm April 25: Garageland Rodeo, Roxx on Main, 627 Main St., Martinez, 7pm April 26: Wonderbread 5, Dan’s Bar, 1524 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek, 10pm

Dallimonti’s

Restaurant

Come for the food stay for the music!

Brunch • Lunch • Dinner

As I was starting to make my picks for this month’s music column, it occurred to me that the live music scene here in Contra Costa County is alive and well. It has always been my mantra for everyone to go out and support live music, and judging from all the venues offering a chance to see and hear great music, I would say it’s working! It has become increasingly hard to make my picks each month due to the number of venues and talent out there. So I thought I’d give you a little more information than normal. Probably the best and most intimate venue in the area is Armando’s in Martinez. Roy Jeans pulls in some amazing talent. Blues, jazz, funk and Americana music can be heard there on any given night. This month alone you’ll hear blues with Mark Hummel and the Blues Survivors on Thursday, April 3; jazz with a French twist with Duo Gadjo on Thursday, April 17; or some downhome Americana with Tender Mercies on Sunday, April 13. Definitely a little something for everyone. Just down the street, Roxx on Main is one of my favorite venues. This place is a throwback to the coffee houses I used to play and visit. And the best part? There are no TVs to distract you! It’s all about the music and food. The legendary Jim Caroompas and the Sisters of Mercy play on April 5, and Dan Deshara is onstage on April 11. Occasionally, you get a full band in there; Martinez’s own Garageland Rodeo will

By Paul Cotruvo, Cover2Cover and The Big Jangle be taking the stage on April 25. Also, of entertainment. Please go out and listen to some great solo artists. Some every Thursday night, this venue has support these businesses. You will not of the highlights this month are Billy one of the best open mics in the area. be disappointed. Schaub on April 12 and Chris Estes on You just never know who will show up Quote of the Month: Music gives a soul April 26. and perform. to the universe, wings to the mind, flight As you can see, music is alive and Over in Pleasant Hill, the famous well in this area. More and more restau- to the imagination and life to everything. Dallimonti’s Restaurant has had live Plato rants and clubs are bringing a variety music on Saturdays for over twenty years, featuring some of the best cover bands in the area. This month will feature The Famous Three-O, Loose Blues, www.dallimontis.com The Indecision Band and The Tuneriders. They have also started an open mic every other Wednesday night, which CHECK OUT OUR “OPEN MIC” NIGHTS ON SELECT WEDNESDAYS & DON’T FORGET LIVE MUSIC EVERY SATURDAY! CALL FOR INFO! has turned into a fun and entertaining APRIL 2014: 4/5 The Famous Three-O • 4/12 Loose Blues time of the week. This month those 4/19 The Indecision Band • 4/26 TuneRiders (Dalli's debut) nights fall on April 9 and 23. • A Family Tradition Since 1982 • Open for Lunch & Dinner Back Forty BBQ also features • Reservations & Take Out Available • Small Banquets Welcome music on Friday and Saturday nights. • Full Bar & Wine List • A Touch of North Beach in your Neighborhood Most of the performers are acoustic and 1932 Oak Park Boulevard, Pleasant Hill. 925-944-5224 play downstairs in the bar. This month features Ken Cooper on April 4 and Stan Erhart on April 5. Occasionally, they have live bands upstairs. Most of the time they are country bands, so you can get your hick on. But this month on April 11, The Big Jangle, my Tom Petty Overall Best tribute band, will be rocking the house. Restaurant Over in Concord, Vinnie’s has been going strong for years. This venue features more rock acts, always quality bands. Look for Lumberyard on April 4. In Walnut Creek, you’ve got Dan’s 1922 Oak Park Blvd, Pleasant Hill •(925-566-8971 Irish Sports Bar, which usually features Wencesrestaurant.com Date Dining some of the best cover bands in the whole Bay Area. April is no exception, and you can hear Tainted Love on April 4 and 5, The Spazmatics on April 11, and The Wonderbread 5 on April 26. Rocco’s Pizza has featured live music for many years. Every Thursday and • Sushi Combo Dinner for Two Just $35.00 Saturday nights you can get a pie and

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Veggies: Zucchini, Fresh Mushroom, Broccoli & Onion Entrees: • Shrimp • NY Steak (Certified Angus Beef ) • Chicken Breast Dessert: Fresh Fruit

1918 Oak Park Blvd, Pleasant Hill 925-705-7065/7066 (PHONE) • 925-705-7067 (FAX) www.kobejapanrestaurant.com • Reservation Recommended

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April 2014

Page 27

4-H Science Field Day

On March 8, over 1,000 4-H members and FFA students from throughout California attended the UC Davis Agricultural Science Field Day. Members participated in many judging contests, from public speaking to livestock. After months of preparation, Contra Costa County 4-H sent a team of six youths to judge meats. The contest entailed a written test and the identification of retail cuts of meat, which required spending many hours in a meat locker examining sides of beef, pork, and lamb. In the end the team of six was the 4-H High Point Team. After the contest, the UC Davis meat lab instructors gave the parents a shot at judging the meats. It was an awesome experience! A huge thank you goes out to Dr. Elisa Dowd, DVM for being our team sponsor. Article and photo submitted by Anthony Cannon.

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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

April 2014

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 is Earth Month!

Chamber Member Benefit!

To celebrate, Diablo Valley College is hosting great speakers in the sustainability field “Zero Waste Lifestyle�

FREE Listing for Chamber Members!

Bea and her family generate a mere quart of waste per year. She will inspire you to live simply and take a stance against needless waste. FREE.

10,000 copies will be delivered to all single-family homes, businesses and Pleasant Hill Chamber members.

with author Bea Johnson

Tuesday, April 8, 12:00 PM

“Celebrate Earth Day: Climate Change Update� with Wei-Tai Kwok

Wei-Tai was personally trained by Al Gore and the Climate Reality Project to present the latest findings about the climate crisis. FREE.

Tuesday, April 22, 4:00 PM

Pleasant Hill Chamber Member Specials include: Q Free Category Listing Q $50 Additional Category Listing Q Members will be Highlighted in Directory and Index

Deadline for Ad reservations: April 15, 2014

Speakers will be the Trophy Room next to the cafeteria. Park in Lot 8. For more information, please contact Green Business Committee chair Anne Baker at (925) 671-5806 or abaker@republicservices.com

Welcome New Members

Be sure you are listed! Must be current member. Call the Chamber office: (925) 687-0700 or e-mail: ann@pleasanthillchamber.com “If you have been thinking about joining the Pleasant Hill Chamber, the time is now! Your business will be listed in the NEW Pleasant Hill Guide & Business Directory coming in June as well as the online business directory on our NEW website. There are many opportunities to get connected in our community. Give us a call today!�

Voss Communications Ribarich Appraisals Prudential - Brian Turner Tod Gomes Photography Anderson Bros. Movers Mosquito Squad of Diablo Valley Right At Home Liz Hall Realty Insperity Martz Motors Slow Hand BBQ Livermore Wine Trolley Raymond James Pamela Green, Realtor

Jennifer Voss Larry Ribarich Brian Turner Tod Gomes Patti Anderson Eugene Murphy Trudy Hartley Elizabeth Hall Oliver Schempp Todd Martz Dan Frengs Brian Luke Tom Ginty Pamela Green

(925) 421-5553 (925) 287-9326 (925) 548-6245 (925) 787-1063 (925) 946-9003 (925) 262-8453 (925) 408-8154 (646) 418-7255 (925) 287-4959 (925) 283-1050 (925) 942-0149 (925) 989-0421 (925) 952-5251 (925) 323-5431

Ann Luke Executive Director

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April 2014

To Read or Not to Read By Zane Dundon, Senior, De La Salle HS

I, Robot by Isaac Asimov is an extremely thought-provoking and interesting sci-fi book that traces the history of robotics in the future. It is nothing like the movie I, Robot, beyond the fact that they have the same name and both involve robots. Although I enjoyed the movie, the book is superior in almost every way. Unlike a traditional novel, it is a collection of nine short stories that Asimov released in science fiction magazines from 1940 to 1950. The stories are best read in order, and they complement each other well by showing the evolution of robotic technology and the different challenges each development poses. The first story, “Robbie,” is a surprisingly touching story about a little girl and her mute robotic friend/babysitter. It is an easy introduction into

Asimov’s robotic world and a subtle criticism of the unfounded fears most people have of robots. A lot of the other stories involve scientists’ efforts to fix a malfunctioning robot by utilizing the three laws of robotics. These three laws bind all robots and cannot be broken: “a robot may not injure a human, a robot must obey the orders given to it by a human, and a robot must protect its own existence.” These stories usually involve a robot seeming to break one of these laws, but in the end, it is discovered this happens only through a loophole and the humans are able to fix the robots by creatively exploiting the three laws of robotics. Asimov’s creativity is very impressive, and each story manages to surprise and engage the reader with its originality and well-thought out details. Asimov, a scientist as well as science fiction author, writes in a direct style that, although not extremely eloquent, is articulate enough to keep the reader engaged in a book that is very easy to read. Although he is most famous for his Foundation series, Asimov’s I, Robot is considered his magnum opus by some and one of his best works by all. Nearly all modern books and movies that involve robots are inspired, in part, by Asimov’s stories, and they are also enthralling to read in themselves.

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Read My Mind © Book Reviews by Michael G. Harris, OD

Robert Gates was Secretary of Defense for both George W. Bush and Barack Obama. His tenure occurred during two controversial wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. His “tour of duty” as Secretary of Defense is told in amazing detail in his memoir, Duty: Memoirs of a Secretary at War. Gates was no stranger to Washington when he accepted the role of Secretary of Defense in 2006. He had already worked for six presidents, from Eisenhower to Bush Senior. His credentials are impeccable. He was an officer in the United States Air Force, a member of the National Security Council, and director of the Central Intelligence Agency. I had an opportunity to hear Gates speak last year. He was truly impressive- knowledgeable, extremely professional, and surprisingly witty. Because of my very positive impression of him from that speech, I was concerned when I heard that his book took potshots at the Obama administration. After reading the book, my concerns were largely alleviated. Yes, he had disagreements with folks in both the Obama and Bush administrations; however, he eloquently and thoughtfully discusses the issues that led to these disagreements and why he was so often frustrated in his job. Even though he was treated well by both Presidents, Gates felt “constantly at war with everybody (in the administration). It was because getting anything of consequence done was so damnable difficult, even in the midst of two wars.” He also faced numerous battles with the Pentagon. The army was not prepared to fight two wars at the same time. Former Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld once said, “You go to war with the army you have.” Gates added, “You damn well should move as fast as possible to get the army you need.” In hindsight, he questions the overthrow of Saddam and the war in Iraq because it “eliminated Iran’s worst

enemy and resulted in a significant strengthening of Iran’s position in the region.” Gates faced other challenges on a daily basis. For example, Gates learned from the Israelis that North Korea was helping Syria build a nuclear reactor. He was dumbfounded that the supposedly reliable US intelligence agencies didn’t know about it, and neither Bush nor Congress seemed to care. Congress was a constant thorn in his side. “Congress is best viewed from a distance– the farther the better– because up close it is truly ugly.” His major gripe concerned the hypocrisy in Congress’ failure to do its main job – pass a budget. ”This was an outrageous dereliction of duty.” At hearings, “rude, insulting, belittling, bullying, and personal attacks by members of Congress violated nearly every norm of civil behavior…” Through Gates, we also experience the fear of possible repercussions if the operation to kill Osama bin Laden had failed and the great satisfaction in its success. His advise to our leaders is clear: “We must always be prepared and willing to use our military forces… but the use of military force should always be the last resort and our objectives clearly and realistically defined…and Presidents need to be more willing and skillful in using tools other than hammers.” He took the job because he cared so much about our troops, and that’s why he stayed. The highest compliment he ever got was being called “the soldier secretary.” Duty is so comprehensive, it seems that Gates was taking notes constantly during his tenure. His 600-page memoir is a remarkable history of a great American and some of the most challenging years in our country’s history. After reading the book, I think you’ll agree that we should be grateful that Robert Gates did his “tour of duty” for our country.

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Page 30

Seniors: Fall Proof Your Home By Tonya Marie Amos, Aspire Pilates Falling can be a horrifying experience that may cause physical and emotional trauma. The perfect combination of strength, flexibility, balance and healthy body mechanics helps us stay upright against gravity. Because we are comfortable in familiar surroundings, most falls happen at home. Here are some tips to help you defy the statistics: Throw Out Your Throw Rugs (or at least tape them down so they don’t move). Catching your toes on the edge of a rug can lead to disaster. While you’re at it, move telephone cords, magazines, pet bowls, and furniture that may get in your way. Clean Water Spills Immediately. Water acts like ice! Add a nonstick surface to your shower. Keep It Bright. Place a lamp within fingertip reach of your bed and have light switches readily accessible around the house. Dim lighting makes it easier to lose your balance, especially on stairs. Note that it takes time for eyes to adjust when going from a light to dark environment (and vice versa). Keep your eyeglass prescription current. Watch for Wooziness. Check in with your doctor about any dizziness, which could be caused by medications or potential health problems. When getting out of bed or a chair, pause a

moment to get your bearings. Stay Well Fed and Hydrated. Drink plenty of water and eat consistently. Insufficient food or water can cause light-headedness. Keep An Eye On Rover. Be aware of where your beloved pets are. If they get underfoot or run into your legs, it can trigger a dramatic fall. Falling does not have to be part of the natural aging process. With the right exercise program and a “fall safe” house, you can enjoy your “no place like home” in both safety and peace. Tonya Marie Amos is a fully certified Pilates instructor. For more information, please call (925) 680-4400 or go to www.AspirePilatesCenter.com.

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By Teresa Bolla, Senior Stylist Teresa Bolla has been part of the Martinez/ Pleasant Hill community for nearly twenty years and has recently taken on a new role as a senior stylist with Ruby Ribbon. She joined Ruby Ribbon after attending a trunk show at a friend’s home last October, when she fell in love with Ruby Ribbon’s wonderful line of Fashion Essentials and Shapewear. She wanted to get in early with a brand new company geared towards making women feel beautiful from the inside out. Teresa grew up in El Cerrito and Berkeley and is a proud alumna of Cal. She loves her Golden Bears! Teresa is well regarded in our community and has worked with mothers and children in many capacities. Her background includes local work as a preschool and elementary teacher. She has also

worked as a parent educator and lactation consultant. A mother of two sons, Teresa loves getting the chance to meet and interact with women in our community. Doing trunk shows is a fun way to earn money and make new

friends. Ruby Ribbon is locally based, with headquarters in Burlingame, California. If you are interested in joining Teresa’s team, check out her website: www.rubyribbon.com/teresabolla Not sure? You might want to start by scheduling a trunk show where you can learn how very easy it is to make money selling Ruby Ribbon. Feel free to call or email Teresa if you would like to learn more about joining her team of amazing Ruby Ribbon stylists. Contact Teresa Today! (925) 5192547 or bollawoman@gmail.com.

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Martinez Senior Activities 818 Green St. (925) 370-8770

Apr. 13 - Pancake Breakfast - 8am – 11am. This delicious breakfast includes pancakes or toast, sausage, eggs, orange juice and coffee. Everyone is welcome. Cost is $3.50 for adults/$2 for children 10 and under. Handmade crafts, perfect for gifts, will be on sale during the breakfast. Apr. 13 - It’s Time For the Brickyard Run/Walk Again. A local tradition for the past 45 years. A 4-mile race is on Carquinez Scenic Dr., entirely on payment with rolling hills. Benefits: Alhambra High school & Martinez Recreation Department. Check-in & Race Day Registration – 7am. 4-mile race Run Start – 8:30am. $30 includes t-shirt & award ceremony. Final mail-in registration must be postmarked by Apr.7. After this date, registration will only be available on race day. Make checks payable to Asics Aggies Running Club. Apr. 24 - Trip Presentation 10am. Join us for a slideshow/presentation on a trip we are offering for the end of 2014. Charleston & Savannah Holiday, December 2 –7, 2014. Trip Highlights: Charleston City Tour, Holiday Lights, Boone Hall Plantation, Fort Sumter Boat Tour, Beaufort, Jekyll Island Trolley Tour, Lunch at Jekyll Island Club, Savannah City Tour, Dinner – Paula Deen’s Lady & Sons. Trip Includes: roundtrip airfare, 9 meals (5 breakfast, 1 lunch & 3 dinners), professional tour director, daily sightseeing per itinerary, deluxe motor coach, baggage handling, hotel transfers, 5-nights first class hotels, gratuities for all venues/meals listed in itinerary, cancellation insurance and gratuities for professional tour director, bus driver and any local guides. Cost: $300 deposit p.p./ $2099 p.p. double occupancy/$2624 single. Credit cards accepted. Checks are payable to “Premier World Discovery”. Coming Soon….“The Conversation Project” coming soon to our center. Call for date & time. (925) 370-8770.

Pleasant Hill Senior Activities 233 Gregory Lane (925) 798-8788

Apr. 4 - LAUGH, LOVE AND LEARN: FREE SENIOR INFORMATION FAIR 8:30am - 1pm. Free for all ages! Over 50 vendors from the local area. FREE Giveaways & Vendor Raffles. SENIOR LIVE WELL FORUM - (same date) 10am - 2pm. Registration Required: Includes Continental Breakfast, Lunch & Lots of Giveaways. Tickets: Pre-sale $25 for those 60 years and older/$30 General; At the door (if available) $35 for those 60 years and older/ $45 General Includes Continental Breakfast, Lunch & Lots of Giveaways! Make checks Payable to PHRPD, Attn: Laugh, Love and Learn, or pay with a credit card – Register in person at the front desk at the center or call (925)798-8788. Apr. 10 - “Hospice 101” 2pm. Learn how can hospice enhance the quality of life of persons who are terminally ill & help family members through this difficult process. Please RSVP as space is limited. Presented by Hospice of the East Bay. Refreshments sponsored by The Chateaus of Pleasant Hill. Apr. 19 - Easter Pancake Breakfast & Spring Boutique Saturday 9-11am. Join us for our delicious bottomless pancake breakfast including eggs, sausage, orange juice and coffee. Afterwards, enjoy a wonderful spring selection of handmade items from the Senior Center Boutique. Adults: $5, Children (5-11yrs): $3, & those 4 years & under: Free! Apr. 26 - Masterpiece in a Day! 10am-3pm.This watercolor workshop helps you create a masterpiece in a single day! Bring a bag lunch. Dessert will be served. Prerequisite: Exploring watercolor class or instructor approval. Call 798-8788 to register. Fees: $82/ $75 Senior Club Member. PH Senior Center Dining Room.

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Video Dementia Tour

Baby Boomers have always presented a challenge for demographers that try to place them into one monolithic category. However, these 78 million women and men may have one thing in common, the fear of Alzheimer’s. The American Alzheimer’s Association reports one new Alzheimer’s victim is recorded every sixty-nine seconds. Moreover, this disease has a myriad of victims, especially the family caregivers who are at a total loss on how to reach and communicate with their “sleeping dreamer.” Over the last ten years, geriatric specialist P.K. Beville has researched and developed a scientifically proven method of building greater understanding through the use of patented sensory tools and the instructional Video Dementia Tour (VDT). VDT has given caregivers and professionals a simulation of Alzheimer’s. This newly-patented program brings out dramatic feelings, empathy and understanding. In an effort to share the VDT with millions of professional and family caregivers, Beville has designed a rigorous training module and certification pro-

cess. For one entire day, participants are put through a comprehensive sensitivity training program, enabling them to gain a greater understanding of dementia that shifts fear into action. Jenny Lind, Owner of Senior Helpers in Concord, has just returned from participating in VDT training in Atlanta conducted by Beville, along with forty caregivers from across the country. “Our goal with VDT training is to equip every caregiver with the knowledge and skills needed to ensure dementia sufferers are treated with dignity and respect,” said Beville. Close to one million people in seventeen countries have experienced the VDT. It meets and exceeds the federal mandate requiring every healthcare entity that provides care to those with memory impairments, such as dementia, to have additional, ongoing training in dementia care. For more information on the VDT, visit www.secondwind.org, the nonprofit founded by Beville committed to changing the perception of aging by fulfilling dreams, funded by the sale of VDTs.

Golden Notes Concert Pleasant Hill’s own senior choral group, the Golden Notes, presents their annual concert at 3pm on Sunday, April 27, in the Chateau Room at the Pleasant Hill Senior Center, 233 Gregory Lane. The chorus consists of 36 men and women and is directed by Dee Wood with accompaniment by Margie Lynwood. Selections include songs from movies, theater, folk and contemporary music. Tickets are $8.00 each and are available at the Senior Center and from chorus members. Tickets will also be available at the door. Refreshments will follow the concert. For more information, contact Dee Wood at 687-7053 or deenotes@earthlink.net.

The Golden Notes perform at Diamond Terrace in Clayton, one of many venues throughout the Diablo Valley region.

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April 2014

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Alhambra Film Festival By Jaki Jones learned if I continued to make videos Innovative Alhambra High School without a competitive edge. junior Megan Lau and the This is why I think high Film Production Club have school film festivals can do created a first ever Alhambra nothing but benefit young High School Film Festival. high school filmmakers. I Why a film festival? Film Club have noticed that many of President Lau explains, “I’ve the students at Alhambra wanted some way to bring are exceptionally skilled at all the actors, writers, and thinking outside of the box. videographers together. That’s Megan Lau That’s one of the things I why I started the Film Produclove about Alhambra; the tion Club (aka Film Club) to representation of the arts within students scout out all the theatrical/visual talent is amazing,” she continued. at our school. And once the club had a Alhambra has strong art, drama and good foothold, I thought about taking it music programs as well as burgeoning further.” support in the cinematic arts. Promising Lau took a serious interest in film young filmmakers now have an opporwhen her computer teacher, Mr. Salgado, tunity to submit a 15-minute short film gave her class an assignment to create in the drama-narrative category. “In the public service announcements. “As we end, I hope they take the chance and made more and more public service express themselves through the lens of a announcements, I made more and more short films or short series with my friends camera for the whole school and community to see. That is what I hope to accomand published them on YouTube,” she said. She’s encouraged by YouTube videos, plish.” Lau has been savvy about promotion. including those produced by Wong Fu There is an AHS Film Festival link on the Productions. “They made abstract, conAlhambra High School webpage under ceptual music videos and films, so they “Announcements” that takes you to the ended up being my main inspiration for festival website where students can read producing films.” Last year, Lau submitted a film at the about festival rules, ask questions and submit an entry (final deadline is April All American High School Film Festival 25). Winners will be selected by a group in New York City. Although she didn’t win, the experience and format motivated of four judges, all AHS teachers, and announced live on the night of the festival her to bring a small-scale festival to her on May 2 at 7pm at the high school. The own high school where filmmakers can event is open to the community. Lau express themselves and showcase their plans to major in film production after talent. “That experience in itself taught graduation and hopes to attend UCLA. me many things that I wouldn’t have

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HIGH SCHOOL HAPPENINGS

STEM Competition

U.S. Rep. George Miller (D-Martinez) is asking local high school students who live in or are eligible to attend schools located in California’s 11th Congressional District to take part in the new nationwide contest to build an innovative new application for a phone, computer, or tablet. The competition, designed to promote innovation and engagement in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) education fields, invites high school students from all participating congressional districts to compete by creating and exhibiting their software application, or “app,” for mobile, tablet, or computer devices on a platform of their choice.

“STEM education is driving the economy of tomorrow and it’s important that students from Contra Costa play a big role in that future. It’s imperative we encourage students to take interest in and excel in these fields, and doing so will better equip them to compete and succeed in an increasingly globalized economy,” said Miller. Students must provide a YouTube or VIMEO video demo explaining their app and what they learned through the competition process. Extra consideration will be awarded to coded apps. All submissions must be entered by 9pm on April 30, 2014. For more information and rules, visit: http://georgemiller.house.gov/stem.

Cabaret at Alhambra

Come to the Cabaret! Join the Alhambra Drama Club for Cabaret, a musical based on Christopher Isherwood’s book, set in 1931 Berlin. Performances are nightly from Wednesday, April 23, through Saturday, April 26. Curtain is at 7 o’clock and tickets are $10. You may view the seating chart at http://www.alhambrahigh.org/ stu.activities or email your seating preference to ddawson@martinezusd.net. Please be sure to note the number of seats you have ordered. Tickets can also be purchased through the Alhambra High School webstore.

CP’s Little Shop of Horrors

Little Shop of Horrors is a musical about a hapless florist who finds his chance for success and romance with the help of a giant, man-eating plant that demands to be fed. “The drama department has been working with a scene shop in Martinez called Rooster Production, which created the huge and fascinating puppets needed for the show. The music will be live, performed by our super-talented singers and musicians,” says CP drama instructor Joan Lopate, who is directing and producing. Bruce Rockwell is the choral director, and Jorge Jimenez is the orchestra director. Featured players are Lorenzo TalbotFoote as Seymour, Annie Lesny as Audrey, Josh Patterson as Mr. Mushnik, Ronan Braun as the Dentist, and Jacob Skolnick as the voice of Audrey 2. Performances are: April 3, 4, 11, 12 at 7pm, April 8 & 9 at 4pm. Tickets are $5 for students and staff, $12 general admission. Performances are in the multi-use room at College Park High School, 201 Viking Drive.

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Page 34

April 2014

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The current cost to attend a California University (including tuition, room and board, and daily living expenses) is over $35,000 for in-state residents. That’s more than four times the cost only ten years ago! Tuition is predicted to increase 4.8%, furTracy Tamura thering a long-term pattern of college tuition outpacing inflation rates. As parents, we all want to provide our children with the best possible college experience without compromising their educational quality or our own meaningful journey into retirement one day. When I wrote a similar article in 2012, I had one child in 3rd grade, one child in 7th grade, and my oldest was just finishing his junior year in high school. My children are all four years apart, yielding a minimum of twelve years of college funding – yikes! So, when my clients talk to me about their college funding concerns and the impact it will have on their retirement savings, I can completely and personally relate. Planning my own family’s future made it crystal clear that funding our children’s college education is no simple matter. The topic of college funding is often at the top of the list with friends, clients and, of course, my own family. So here is the latest update on my family: my oldest son has been accepted to the college of his dreams (Cal-Poly), we’ve filled out our FASFA (federal financial aid form), and we’ve paid for the first quarter of tuition, housing and food – yep, you have to prepay food. We’ve finished positioning our funds so we have access to them over the next four years, and we are continuing to build the funds for our two daughters. If you would like to hear how we did all this and how I work with my clients to help them achieve the same success, with funding for both college and retirement, then join me on May 8th or May 15th for an in depth look at what it takes to get kids successfully through college today. To register and for more info, go to www. fundsforthefuture.net.

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Get Real Academy By Terry Enns, Get Real Academy, Chair grams leading to social and economic Soroptimist, District II of Founder empowerment.” The seven clubs in DisRegion, held its 11th Get Real Academy trict II conducted fundraising, coordion Friday, March 7, at the Hilton Hotel nated with the schools and planned the in Concord. This day of life skills for event. For more information, visit www. Contra Costa’s high school senior girls soroptimist.org or www.facebook.com/ included job interview exercises and soroptimist.getreal. workshops on money management, women’s health issues, violence awareness and getting a job. Contra Costa Kops for Kids and a special agent in an investigative field spoke about their careers and provided direction for success. A fashion show demonstrating proper attire in the work place and for social events was held, with some models selected from among the 275 attendees. After door prizes were given out, two randomly selected scholarships were given. Recipients are Savana Spencer of Las Lomas High School and Eden Matthews of Dozier-Libbey Medical High School. Get Real Academy’s goal supports Savana Spencer from Las Lomas High School the Soroptimist mission: “Improving the stands with Eden Matthews, who attends Dozierlives of women and girls through proLibbey Medical High School. Photo by Terry Enns

Spring is nature’s way of saying “let’s party!” Robin Williams

Page 35

Legacy Fund Donation Martinez Education Foundation (MEF) is honored to announce that Sheila A. Grilli, who passed away in August 2013, has bequeathed $50,000 to the MEF Legacy Fund for the future benefit of students and teachers in the Martinez public schools. Grilli was a long-time resident of Martinez and a graduate of Alhambra High School, Class of 1955. Ms. Grilli believed in MEF’s mission to help make Martinez schools better by investing in MEF’s Legacy Fund. The Legacy Fund now has a balance in excess of $500,000. MEF’s goal is to build its endowment fund to $1,000,000 by reinvesting earnings and collecting additional contributions and planned gifts from other Martinez community members and supporters. The Legacy Fund provides sustainability to MEF, which allows MEF to continue providing grants to benefit the Martinez public schools for many years to come. With this gift, Ms. Grilli has left a legacy to the Martinez schools that will pay future dividends to teachers and

students throughout the Martinez public schools. Ms. Grilli’s thoughtfulness and generosity is an inspiration to the entire Martinez school community and her contribution to the Legacy Fund will not be forgotten. MEF Announces $115,403 in Grants MEF is proud to announce that it recently awarded grants Sheila Grilli in the amount of $115,403 to teachers and staff throughout the Martinez Unified School District schools. Schools receiving grants include Alhambra High School ($53,066), Martinez Junior High School ($7,123), Vicente/Briones High School ($12,238), Morello Park Elementary ($11,255), Las Juntas Elementary ($17,193), John Swett Elementary ($7,079) and John Muir Elementary ($7,449). Additional information about the grants can be found at MEF’s website at http://www.martinezedfoundation. com/. MEF thanks and appreciates all of its donors and volunteers for their great support throughout the year that allows MEF the opportunity to make our schools better!

2014 Grant Applications

2C@±CJNKDO<G±RDOC±OC@±A<HDGT±OJP>C HILLCREST VETERINARY HOSPITAL Joseph A. Thibedeau, DVM Louisa M. Asseo, DVM 925-676-1909

The Pleasant Hill Community Foundation has released its 2014 Community Grant application for public and nonprofit organizations in Pleasant Hill. The proceeds from the Annual Appeal held last fall are funding these grant awards. Any recreational, cultural or educational program that serves the residents of Pleasant Hill may apply. The Grants Allocation Chair, Adrianne Roe, states, “The Foundation is again very proud to be able to provide this

opportunity to organizations in our community that enrich the lives of the residents of Pleasant Hill through cultural, educational and recreational activities.” Applications may be downloaded from the Foundation’s website at www. PHCommunityFoundation.org where prior Community Grant recipients are also listed. Any questions can be sent to info@PHCommunityFoundation. org. The application deadline is April 20, 2014.

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April 2014

EASTER SUNDAY WORSHIP & LOCAL CHURCH INFORMATION

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Episcopal Church of the Resurrection 399 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill 925-685-2288 www.resurrectionph.org Good Friday – 12 noon & 7pm Saturday Easter Vigil – 7:30pm Easter Day – 8am & 10:15am Easter Egg Hunt following the 10:15 service.

Gather your girlfriends and join us for a fun shopping experience.

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Get some great gifts for Mother’s Day or just for yourself in a fun casual environment.

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April 2014

Page 37

Celebrating 100 Years of John Muir’s Legacy Join the National Park Service (NPS) in celebrating 100 years of John Muir’s conservation legacy during the annual Earth Day and John Muir’s Birthday event on Saturday, April 26, from 10am to 4pm at the John Muir National Historic Site (NHS) in Martinez. Participate in fun activities for all ages to commemorate Muir’s legacy and the 50th anniversary of the park’s establishment in 1964. Special guest speaker Bruce Hamilton, deputy executive director of

the Sierra Club, will give the keynote address. The celebration, held rain or shine, features family-oriented activities, food for sale, live music, including a bagpipe band, and displays by national parks and local environmental organizations. Parking and admission are free. NPS Ranger Frank Helling will portray John Muir and recount some of Muir’s many wilderness adventures. John Muir NHS horticulturalist Keith Park will also be

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on hand to discuss the successful cloning of the sequoia tree that Muir planted on the grounds of his Martinez home in the late 1880s. “We’re proud to host the birthday– Earth Day celebration each year, but this year is special,” said John Muir NHS Superintendent Tom Leatherman. “A century ago, John Muir passed away and left a legacy that lives on in our 401 national parks. Fifty years ago, our park was established to remember his legacy and communicate his story and vision. We hope you can join us during this year of commemoration.” Visitors can enjoy self-guided tours of Muir’s historic Victorian home, where he wrote about protecting nature, as well as bid in two silent auctions. Proceeds benefit the John Muir Association, the nonprofit organization hosting the event in partnership with the NPS. The Association will also present the 36th annual John Muir Conservation Awards. The John Muir NHS Visitor Center parking lot will be reserved for vehicles with a state-issued disabled person placard or plate, and free general parking

will be available at the Martinez Adult Education School at 600 Alhambra Avenue and “F” Street. While free shuttle transportation will be provided from the parking area, the NPS encourages travel on public transportation. For directions, please visit www.nps.gov/jomu/planyourvisit/directions.htm. For additional information, please visit www.johnmuirassociation.org or www.MuirEarthDay.org. Created in 1964, John Muir NHS preserves the home, landscapes, and gravesite of conservationist and national park advocate John Muir. Mt. Wanda preserves 326 acres of grasslands and oak woodlands that were part of the original Muir/Strentzel ranch in the Alhambra Valley more than a century ago. John Muir NHS, located at 4202 Alhambra Avenue, Martinez, CA 94553, is open five days a week, Wednesday through Sunday, from 10 AM to 5 PM. Admission to the site is free of charge. For more information, please visit the park website at www.nps.gov/jomu, like us on Facebook, or call (925) 228-8860.

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2014 Sponsors Pleasant Hill Baseball Association

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March CERT Exercises By Jim Bonato, Pleasant Hill CERT Program Manager CERT instructors from the Pleasant Hill, On Saturday, March 8, at 8:00 am, Martinez, Concord, and Clayton proa simulated 6.9 earthquake claxoned grams who served as mentors/evaluators Pleasant Hill’s Community Emergency in providing feedback on their effectiveResponse Team (CERT) volunteers into ness. action! After checking on the well-being Members of the Northeast CERT of their families and neighbors, volunteers reported to their assembly areas and Area focused on practicing disaster management, message center skills, and organized their response to reports of medical treatment. “This was a great damage in the community. opportunity for CERT volunteers to put The March 8 simulated earthquake into practice the disaster management event was an annual, planned, citywide training they learned in the classroom CERT exercise, developed entirely by and at local meetings. As the exercise CERT volunteers and designed to be a learning environment for practicing their progressed, CERT members became increasingly confident in their roles,” stated training and implementing and evaluatGordon Doughty, the co-area coordinaing their procedures in response to the tor for the northeast area. effects of a damaging earthquake. Don Mayo, area coordinator for the Over 100 CERT members and volunteer victims from local scouting troops southwest area added, “Members from earlier classes were able to relearn things converged at the Hope Center Covenant that had become hazy through lack Church on Morello, which also serves of practice. This exercise served as an as the assembly area for the Pleasant arena to refine our skills in a ‘real world’ Hill Northeast CERT Team. An incident scenario.’” command post was established on-site The CERT program educates resito effectively manage the volunteers’ dents about disaster preparedness for response to damage in the northwest quadrant of Pleasant Hill. Search and res- hazards that may impact their neighborhoods and trains them in basic disaster cue teams were dispatched to respond to simulated reports of damage in neighbor- response skills. The next Pleasant Hill hoods and report back via radio what ac- class starts on September 8. Mark your calendars and enroll online at www. tions they took to each unique problem. A medical treatment area was established pleasanthillcertsignup.com. You too can make a difference in your neighborhood to attend to simulated injuries caused by the trembler. Each team was overseen by and our community!

Page 39

The Truth Behind Car Dealers and Services By the Hagin’s Staff We are seeing vehicle manufacturers recommend fewer and fewer service items at maintenance intervals and recommending inspections of parts instead. Why is that? Vehicle manufacturers spend a lot of time on research and development to figure out how long their cars will last. They know what they can get away with by not servicing your vehicle but still have it make it out of the warranty period. This is their ultimate goal: to get your vehicle past the warranty period before it breaks down. At that point, you will be facing expensive repairs or buying a new car. Let’s face it; while the car manufacturer does make some money on the parts used to repair your vehicle, they get no cut of the labor. Their business is selling new cars - a large part of their revenue. Recommending inspections rather than replacements or service allows them to advertise a lower cost of ownership. This also allows them to offer a service package that includes nothing more than an oil change and tire rotation. Sometimes they include this in the cost of the vehicle and offer it for free. All additional items they inspect will be charged to you as services or repairs, if you are even told about them. Many manufacturers have more than one maintenance schedule. They have one for normal service and one for severe service. Listed below is an example of Honda’s definition of severe service. * Most other manufacturers have very similar definitions of severe service.

U.S. Owners Follow the Severe Conditions Maintenance Schedule if their vehicles are driven mainly under one or more of the following conditions : • Driving less than 10 miles (16 km) per trip. • Driving in hot weather conditions. [over 9O°F (32°C)] • Extensive idling or long periods of stop-and-go driving (most Bay-Area driving) • Driving with a rooftop carrier or driving in mountainous conditions. • Driving on muddy, dusty, or de-iced roads. Most of us keep our vehicles longterm or well past the warranty period. If you want to protect your investment, we recommend changing all of the fluids every two years or 30,000 miles. As mechanics, we change the fluids on our own vehicles once every year or every 15,000 miles. We do this because we have easy access to the necessary resources and it is a small investment compared to expensive repairs or replacing a vehicle. At Hagin’s Automotive, we offer complete maintenance inspections and are willing to invite you down to the shop to review your vehicle with you in person. While we understand that everyone may not have the time to come down to the shop, we want you to know it is something we offer. * Alldata Hagin’s Automotive, located at 3725 Alhambra Avenue in Martinez, can be reached at (925) 228-5115 or via their website at www.haginsauto.com.

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April 2014

The 15 Percent Program drought, and we all The Contra must do our part to Costa Water Disconserve,” said Joseph trict (CCWD) board L. Campbell, CCWD unanimously apboard president. He proved a 2014 added, “Combined Drought Managewith this voluntary ment Program on program, CCWD is March 19. In response efficiently using all to current drought the resources our cusconditions, CCWD tomers have wisely customers are being invested in to mancalled upon to volA worriesome view of the Delta. age through multiple untarily reduce their dry years, including storage in Los Vaqueoverall water use by 15 percent. ros.” The program encourages customers to CCWD is facing multiple challenges focus efforts on saving water by reducing during the current drought, including a reoutdoor water usage, as spring is the typiduced water allocation on diversions from cal time for customers to ramp up their irthe Delta and managing degrading water quality in the Delta due to reduced outflow. rigation schedules. By targeting reductions in discretionary outdoor water use, CCWD The recent expansion of Los Vaqueros Reswill preserve resources in Los Vaqueros and ervoir increased the district’s water storage be prepared to manage through a continand helps maintain delivery of safe, high ued drought without impacting local jobs quality water to customers, however, this or economy. Customers will actually save does not make CCWD immune to conmoney by using less water. tinued drought conditions. Also, the gov This program also emphasizes the ernor’s emergency drought declaration required implementation of drought shortage need for all customers to watch for the wasteful use of water. Prohibited uses inplans, and this action by CCWD is necesclude watering landscape between 9:00 am sary to assist the state. At the meeting, the board was present- and 5:00 pm, washing down pavement instead of sweeping, and refilling a non-recired with a 2014 Drought Management Program based on current water allocations, re- culating fountain or pond. sources available in storage, and an outlook How do customers know how they are of continued dry conditions. The 15 percent doing on conserving? Each bill sent to customers contains information on their indivoluntary program approved by the board conserves available water supplies and saves vidual water use, current and historic. More water stored in reservoirs, including Los Va- information on available conservation services can be accessed at www.ccwater.com queros, in case the drought continues into or by contacting customer service (925) next year. 688-8044. “California is in a serious state-wide 1155-C Arnold Dr., Martinez 925.372.7662 Tel 925.372.6507 Fax store0272@theupsstore.com www.theupsstorelocal.com/0272 Offers valid at this location only

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Stop Locating the Nearest Bathroom By Judson Brandeis, MD 1. High urinary frequency: Do you constantly feel muscle. Other first-step treatment opmore than eight times in a like you “gotta go”? When tions might include dietary modifica24-hour period. you leave the house, do you tion, bladder training programs and 2. Urinary urgency: a strong, prescription medication. always look where the nearcompelling need to urinate est bathroom is, just in case? Now there is another option. Postethat cannot be delayed. Bladder control problems rior Tibial Nerve Stimulation, otherwise 3. Urge incontinence: wetare more common than you known as PTNS, is a non-drug, nonting accidents that occur bemight think. Having an oversurgical therapy that is helping many fore reaching a toilet active bladder can affect your people with OAB take control. Blad If you have bladder control issues, quality of life and 16 percent of adults, der function is regulated by a group of don’t let embarrassment stand in the about 33 million people, have this connerves at the base of the spine called the dition, according to the Journal of Urol- way of finding a solution. After talking sacral nerve plexus. By stimulating these with a doctor, most people start with ogy. nerves through gentle electrical impulsconservative therapies, such as Kegel People with an overactive bladder, or es, you can gain better control of your exercises, to strengthen the pelvic floor OAB, often experience: bladder. The Urgent PC Neuromodulation System provides this low-risk treatment by indirectly stimulating the nerves responsible for bladder function using a nerve in your lower leg. Up to 80 percent of people who get PTNS have significant improvement in their bladder control symptoms, even when other treatment options have failed in the past. To get an Urgent PC treatment, you Thanks to our customers for voting us #1! visit a clinician’s office. During treatment, you sit with your foot elevated.

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This allows the clinician to stimulate the area near your tibial nerve using a very thin needle temporarily placed in your ankle. Impulses travel along your leg to the nerves in your pelvis that control bladder function. What does a PTNS treatment feel like? Most people simply feel a mild tingling sensation in their foot or ankle during the treatment. You will receive an initial series of 12 treatments for 30 minutes each, typically scheduled a week apart. After the initial 12 treatments, you may only need occasional treatments or none at all. For more information or to schedule an appointment to learn if PTNS can help you, visit our website www.pacific-urology.com or call 925-937-7740.

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April 2014

Community Announcements

Easter Egg Hunts The Hunt is On, For kids and dogs! Benefitting the Contra Costa Humane Society, Saturday, April 6. See flyer below. Lion’s Club Easter Egg Hunt, April 19, 10am, Waterfront Park grass area. Ages 2 - 9 yrs. Enjoy face painting and bring your own camera to take pictures with the Bunny. Egg Hunt begins at 10am sharp. Please arrive at the park by 9:45am!

“Egg”-Citing Egg Hunt! Saturday, April 19. Register now! Ages 0-3 start at 10:30 sharp. Start times vary by age group. Sign up early for this spring time tradition in beautiful Pleasant Hill Park, 147 Gregory Lane! Free entertainment by Dana Smith (Juggler) and music by Strawberry Fields. Pre-registration required. Register early at www.pleasanthillrec.com, or call (925) 682-0896. Sponsored by Pleasant Hill Recreation & Park District and Pleasant Hill Lions Club. Onstage Repertory Theatre Company presents Weekend Comedy. A comedic clash of the generations occurs when two couples, (one older, one young) accidentally rent the same upper New York vacation cabin for a romantic three day weekend. Friday & Saturday, April 4 & 5, 8pm, Campbell Theatre 636 Ward Street, Martinez. General admission $18, seniors $16, students $10. Thursday, general/ seniors bargain price $12 (except students). (925) 518-3277, onstagetheatre. homestead.com. The Clayton Theatre Company is excited to present its second produc-

tion, Night of January 16th. The play takes place entirely in a courtroom during a murder trial set in the 1940s. An unusual twist is that the jury is picked from members of the audience! If you would like to be considered to serve on our jury, please arrive 20 minutes before show time. Purchase tickets at, claytontheatrecompany.com and follow the link to Brown Paper Tickets. Performance dates and times: April 4, 5, 10, 11, 12 at 7:30pm, April 5, 6, 12 at 2pm. Endeavor Hall, 6008n Center Street, Clayton. (925) 222-9106.

Ygnacio Valley High School 2nd Annual Hall of Fame Induction Dinner, April 5, at The Clubhouse at Boundary Oak Golf Course in Walnut Creek. We are extremely excited to be inducting six outstanding individuals and teams into our Hall of Fame. This year’s inductee’s are John Watson ’74, Dan Fitzgerald ’71, the ‘87 boys basketball team, Stephanie Hanf ’91, Jack Warren ’69 and Coach Jim Grace. Social gathering at 5pm, dinner at 6:30. Contact Cathy Boer at (925) 408-7767 or cboer@eathlink.net to attend this memorable event. Italian Catholic Federation Branch #13 annual Spaghetti & Meatball Family Fundraising Dinner Saturday, April 5. 5:30pm no-host cocktails; 6pm dinner. St. Catherine of Siena Parish Hall, 604 Mellus Street, Martinez. $25 Family Deal includes 2 adults and 2 or 3 children 5 to 11 years old. Adults 12 years and older, $10; Children 5 to 11 years old, $5; Children under 5 years are free. Proceeds benefit scholarship and other programs.

For tickets call (925) 229-2665.

Pleasant Hill Garden Study Club meets Tuesday, April 1 at 7pm. PH Community Center, 320 Civic Drive. Speaker: Shawna Anderson, “Container Arrangements”. Guests are welcome & free. (925) 944-4898, www.phgsc.com. “Endangered Threads” of the Mayan People, Monday, April 7, 10am. Valley Stitchers and Fiber Arts Guild members and guests will hear Kathleen Vitale speak on her participation in the documentary on the native weavers of Guatemala. She and her husband, Paul, worked with anthropologist Margot Blum to capture this skill before it disappears. Faith Lutheran Church, 50 Woodsworth Lane, Pleasant Hill. For more information, please contact Sheila at (925) 945-1338. Martinez Brickyard Run, Sunday, April 13. A local tradition for the past 44 years, the 4-mile Brickyard run benefits Alhambra High School and the Martinez Recreation Department. A unique “Brick” award is given to age group winners. Check-in & race day registration at 7am. Run starts at 8:30. $30 registration fee includes t-shirt. Final online registration closes at midnight April 8. After this date, registration will only be available on race day. The 4-mile race is out and back on Carquinez Scenic Drive, entirely on pavement with rolling hills. Awards go 3-deep, male/female in categories 12 & under, 13-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 5059, 60-69, 70+. Register online at: http:// www.eventbrite.com, search Martinez Brickyard Run.

The Society of American Magicians Assembly #112 meets 3rd Wednesday of the month at 7pm; Veterans of Foreign Wars, 1919 Wendell Lane, Pleasant Hill. Open to all! Contact Fred at (925) 451-1292.

Irvin Deutscher Family YMCA’s Healthy Kids Day®, April 26, from 11am to 1pm. Healthy Kids Day® is the Y’s national initiative to improve the health and well-being of families, featuring fun active play and educational activities that will inspire kids to carry a spirit of excitement and exploration throughout their summer, including Yoga for kids, Zumba, Family Relay, Bounce House, and more! We will be kicking off the event with a Family Fun Walk at 10:15am. There will be free giveaways and drawings for kids and parents. 350 Civic Dr., Pleasant Hill. For more information, call 925.687.8900 or visit www. ymca-cba.org. The Red Devil Golf Classic will hold its annual golf tournament on Friday, June 27, at Diablo Creek Golf Course in Concord. Registration starts at 11am, followed by lunch, golf, dinner, and raffle/silent auction. Proceeds go to help sports programs at Mt. Diablo High School. For more information contact Lou Adamo at 925-212-9332 or email louadamo@gmail.com or contact Ralph Vallis at 925-825-7593 or email him at rv7667@aol.com.

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  

—

SATURDAY, APRIL 5



DINNER TALK WITH TOBY HEMENWAY BEST-SELLING AUTHOR & PROFESSOR “THE JOYS OF DROUGHT – LIVING WITH NATURE’S CYCLES”

—       

    --   

2 GREAT EVENTS IN 1 DAY! 



          

FULL DETAILS AT WWW.RODGERSRANCHURBANFARM.ORG

    —

DIABLO VALLEY COLLEGE 5 P.M. TO 9 P.M.

www.ourcommunityfocus.com

April 2014

Page 43

• BUSINESS SERVICE DIRECTORY •BUSINESS SERVICE DIRECTORY • BUSINESS SERVICE DIRECTORY • BUSINESS SERVICE DIRECTORY •

One Dog At A Time Personal Grooming

• Call for Same Day Appointments • Mon, Tue, Fri, Sat and Sun • 8am - 4pm and Some Evenings • Located in and Backed by Central Bark, Downtown Martinez

BUSINESS SERVICE AD RATES AD SIZE 2.75 X 1.75 $75/ COLOR $60/BW PER MONTH 3 MONTH MINIMUM CONTRACT

FOR INFO PLEASE CALL: 925.335.NEWS OR VISIT US AT: WWW.OURCOMMUNITYFOCUS.COM

melonie jackson • 925-822-7858 821 Escobar St, Martinez NEW NAME SAME GREAT SERVICE YOU EXPECT! Find what you're looking for at

Antiques & Things

925-827-1200

sales@crsfbay.com • www.crsfbay.com 1936 Linda Drive Pleasant Hill CA 94523

(925) 685-8930! Tue-Sat: 10am-5pm! Sun-Mon: 11am-5pm! nicsnchips@comcast.net

5807 Pacheco Blvd! Pacheco, CA 94553 "It's bigger than it looks!"

SELL YOUR HOME FAST and for TOP DOLLAR

Before listing your home, order this FREE REPORT that reveals 27 TIPS to give you the competitive edge. For immediate access to report, go to

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Page 44

www.ourcommunityfocus.com

April 2014

COMING IN SUMMER 2014

Guide & Business Directory A Resource for the Community

Pleasant Hill is a little jewel in the East Bay with a small town feel and big city amenities. Home to a thriving, growing business community, convenient shopping, dining choices from family to fine, and recreational activities and entertainment in abundance!

Living & Do

ing Busines

Pleasant H s in ill

2014-201

5

Since local business is the heartbeat of any city, our directory and index of Pleasant Hill businesses will make it easy for you to connect with your next customer. In partnership with the Pleasant Hill Chamber of Commerce, we bring you a comprehensive guide to living and doing business in Pleasant Hill. Ten thousand copies will be hand delivered to all single-family homes, businesses and Pleasant Hill Chamber members. Don’t miss this once-a-year opportunity to reach the residents of this vibrant community!

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Contact (925) 335-NEWS (6397) or email guide@ourcommunityfocus.com

Chamber Members Contact Ann Luke at (925) 687-0700 or email Ann@pleasanthillchamber.com

A Community Focus Publication

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