• February 2012
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February 2012
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February 2012
Page 3
Comedy Workshop a Huge Success
Sixty middle school students enrolled in The California Writers Club Young Writers Comedy Workshop led by local authors Sarah Wilson (Danville) and Elizabeth Koehler-Pentacoff (Pleasant Hill), held in January at the Walnut Creek Library. Students participated in funny improvisations and wrote humorous stories to prepare for the annual Young Writers Contest. Deadline for the contest is April 1, 2012. Guidelines can be found at: http://cwcmtdiablowriters.wordpress. com/young-writers-contest/.
Bare Noggins to Support a Friend
Showrooms also in Santa Clara & Milbrae
By Marji Calbeck, Principal, Valhalla Elementary caught on quickly, and a week later, shared with students a few days later. Compassion, empathy and friendseven fifth grade boys had shaved their The students were told that he has the ship is alive and well at Valhalla Elheads, with more boys planning to most common type of leukemia and ementary! A fifth grade boy at Valtake the plunge the following weekend! his prognosis is for a full recovery, but halla was diagnosed with leukemia on Parents and teachers have been overthat he will receive chemotherapy and Monday, January 9 and the news was Pleasant Hill Community Focus Ad whelmed by the outpouring of support not be back to school the rest of this and camaraderie displayed, not only year. by his immediate classmates, but by In response to the news, the students wanted to do something to dem- the entire fifth grade class. In addition, onstrate their support for him. Several the Student Council has asked their Where experience makes teacher leaders to hold a fundraiser of the boys started talking about shava beautiful difference. ing their heads as a way to rally around in March for Pennies for Patients as a way for the whole school to help other him and let their classmate know they leukemia and lymphoma patients. were behind him all the way. The idea FEBRUARY 2012 CLASSES
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Pruning Roses with Buzz Bertolero, The Dirt Gardener. From floribundas,
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Hydroponics 101 with Buzz Bertolero, The Dirt Gardener. An introductory
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class in how to grow edibles and other plants indoors without soil. For the complete list and description of 2012 classes, visit:
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Valhalla Elementary 4th grade teacher, Robert Turney (in back), stands with a group of 5th graders to demonstrate their support of a classmate who is fighting leukemia. Photo Credit: Kellie Paredero
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February 2012
JULIE SAYS
Look Before You Leap
By Julie Ross Caesar in 46 B.C., which we think was Welcome to February 2012, the the first attempt to keep the calendar month that plays host to Leap Day. year synchronized with the astronomi Back in 1988 (another leap year), cal or seasonal year. Modern scholars the small town of Anthony on the Texare uncertain whether the notorious as/New Mexico border claimed Februdoomsday-predicting Mayan calenary 29th as its special day and assumed dar made corrections using leap years. the lofty title of “Leap Year Capital of What has been determined, however, the World.” That year, the Anthony is that the culture’s “long count” calChamber of Commerce founded the endar, which spans 5,126 years, ends Worldwide Leap Year Birthday Club. on the winter solstice, December 21, Everyone from around the world born 2012, leading many to conclude that on February 29th was invited to join this means the world will end on that date as well. and attend a birthday party in their honor every four To me and many time-and-date experts, this does years. The party featured a parade, birthday dinner not signify doomsday, but rather raises the idea that and hot air balloon lifts. I am sad to announce to you leap babies out there if the Mayans were still around, they just would just whip up a new calendar. that Anthony is unable to host the Leap Year Birth Whatever your beliefs on the whole doomsday day Party this year due to “lack of resources.” Town issue, this year is a leap year, which means we get a leaders likely made note of the fact that there are an whole extra day to live in February. Let’s make the estimated 4 million people around the globe with a most of it, perhaps by toasting the occasion with a February 29th birthday, 200,000 of which are in the United States. No way could Anthony, with a popula- Leap Year Cocktail, introduced in 1928 (yes, a leap year) by the Savoy Hotel in London. Use 2 oz. gin, tion of 4,000 souls, host a party of that magnitude. ½ oz. Grand Marnier, ½ oz. sweet vermouth and ¼ Planning ahead for potential consequences, such oz. fresh lemon juice. Stir with ice and strain into a as an overabundance of party guests, is a classic exchilled glass; serve with a twist of lemon. Cheers! ample of the centuries-old proverb, “look before you Please send comments to julieakross@comcast. leap.” net. First mention of this notion of looking-beforeThe Community Focus is available one-leaps appeared in a collection of proverbs put together in 1546 by English writer John Heywood, cauat the following locations: tioning his readers to think carefully before getting Pleasant Hill Market • Pleasant Hill City Hall married; in his words, “. . . in wedding and all things Pleasant Hill Senior Center • Pleasant Hill Library to look ere ye leaped.” Mt. Diablo YMCA • UPS – Virginia Hills, Mtz. This advice is particularly notable in a leap year, Chamber of Commerce (P.H. & Mtz.) as a pre-women’s liberation tradition dating back to Pleasant Hill Rec and Park (Civic Dr. & Gregory) 1288 holds that February 29th is a day when a woman Hyatt Summerfield Suites, Pleasant Hill can ask a man to marry her. This concept might be Legal Grounds, Martinez • Martinez Senior Center outdated, but for those conservative ladies out there Les Schwab Tires - Alhambra Avenue who feel the need for permission to propose, FebruBest Western, John Muir Inn, Martinez ary 29th is your big opportunity – seize the day! Just Headways Salon, Main Street make sure you heed the wisdom of John Heywood and look before you leap. The Gregorian calendar we follow today is a rewww.ourcommunityfocus.com finement of the Julian calendar introduced by Julius
• Local Real Estate.............................................page 9 • Pair Up.......................................................... page 11 • Garden Natives............................................. page 13 • Season Ticket................................................ page 16
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• 2011 All-League................................................page 18 • Symphony & Theatre . .....................................page 21 • Recipes Using Kale........................................... page 23 • Teen of the Year Nominees.............................. page 30
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February 2012
Page 5
2011 Pleasant Hill Community Awards Photos courtesy of Ann Luke, lukedesignassociates.com The 41st Annual Community Awards Night was celebrated at Back Forty Texas BBQ on January 19. This event is hosted by the Chamber of Commerce, City of Pleasant Hill and the Recreation & Park District each year to honor employees, businesses and residents who have made a positive contribution and significant difference in improving the quality of life in Pleasant Hill. Listed below are the winners and award recipients. Citizen of the Year Award: Tim Flaherty and Don & Norma Flaskerud During consideration of the nominees for Citizen of the Year, the Selection Committee unanimously agreed that both candidates were equally deserving of this award. Moreover, since both nominees made a significant contribution to and worked together on the City’s 50th Anniversary Celebration in 2011, it was decided to give the award to both Tim Flaherty and Don & Norma Flaskerud for the generous and positive impacts they have made to our community. Community Plus Award: Justin Pitcher This award is bestowed on an employee of one of the three sponsoring organizations of the Community Awards Night. This year’s recipient, Justin Pitcher, is an employee of the Recreation and Park District and
was recognized for his enthusiasm and boundless energy in providing logistical support at all of the district events and programs throughout the year. Business Person of the Year: Matt Rinn (State Farm Insurance) In only his fifth year as a State Farm Insurance agent, Matt Rinn has practically become a household name in Pleasant Hill through hard work, superb customer service, volunteer efforts, and sponsorship of almost every major event held in Pleasant Hill. Teen of the Year: Jannette Danielson A College Park High School senior, Jannette Danielson has already been
Matt Rinn, 2011 Business Person of the Year with previous winners, Adrianne and David Roe
recognized for working as a volunteer with the Animal Rescue Foundation, earning the Girl Scout’s “Gold Award,” and serving as a camp counselor at Diablo Day Camp. Educator of the Year: Barbara Oaks Barbara Oaks retired as Principal of College Park High School in June 2011, after dedicating 23 years to the school. Barbara worked tirelessly for children and provided a quality educational experience for all students at College Park. She was recognized for her managerial prowess, strong work ethic and fiscal prudence, and for being a democratic and innovative leader. Other Award Winners:
Chamber Board Appreciation Award: Tom Guarino, PG & E Ambassador of the Year Award: Becky Coburn, Jennifer Neys & Elena Hutslar – “The Focus Girls” Community Service Award (Rec & Park District): St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, Faith Lutheran Church, and Village Music School Board Appreciation Award (Rec & Park District): City of Pleasant Hill Cornerstone Award (Community Foundation): Allied Waste Services Mayor’s Award: Martin Nelis For more information on any of these awards, email Martin Nelis at mnelis@ci.pleasant-hill.ca.us or call (925) 671-5229.
Don & Norma Flaskerud with Tim Flaherty, the Citizen of the Year Awards winners
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Do I Need to File a Tax Return? By Donna Berggren It’s that time of year again; the income tax filing season has begun. You are required to file an income tax return if your income is above a certain level, which varies depending on your filing status, age and type of income you receive. However, some people should file even if they aren’t required to because they may get a refund if taxes were withheld or they qualify for refundable credits. Even if you don’t have to file for 2011, here are five reasons you may want to: 1. Federal Income Tax Withheld: You should file to get money back if your employer withheld federal income tax from your pay, you made estimated tax payments, or had a prior year overpayment applied to this year’s tax. 2. Earned Income Tax Credit: You may qualify for EITC if you worked,
but did not earn a lot of money. EITC is a refundable tax credit, which means you could qualify for a tax refund. To get the credit, you must file a return and claim it. 3. Additional Child Tax Credit:
This refundable credit may be available if you have at least one qualifying child. 4. American Opportunity Credit: Students in their first four years of postsecondary education may qualify for as much as $2,500 through this credit. Forty percent of the credit is refundable, so even those who owe no tax can get up to $1,000 of the credit as cash back for each eligible student. 5. Adoption Credit: You may be able to claim a refundable tax credit for qualified expenses you paid to adopt an eligible child. The tax filing season deadline this year is April 17. If you have questions or would like tax preparation assistance, give us a call. For more tax information you can check out www.IRS.gov or give us a call. Putman • Berggren • Tonti, 380 Civic Drive, Suite 200, Pleasant Hill, 925-827-1400.
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February 2012
Mayor’s Message In the spirit of developing community, I’d like to highlight events where we gather to share meals. With the arrival of the New Year comes a plethora of opportunities to join our neighbors and share some unbelievable spreads. Being a part of Northern California, the crab season dominates many of these banquets in January and February. Residents from Pleasant Hill and surrounding communities congregate for crab feeds to support the Pleasant Hill Police Officer Association’s Law Enforcement Torch Run, benefitting Special Olympics; the
Pleasant Hill throughout the year and sharing a meal with those, like yourself, who are helping to build a better community. All of the host-organizations with whom I have spoken assure me that an invitation to their event is extended to everyone. I look forward to seeing you there and celebrating our community together.
4th of July Celebration
Assembly Member Susan Bonilla, now representing the City of Pleasant Hill, will participate in a moderated discussion on education Thursday, March 8 at 7pm at the City Council Chambers. Ms. Bonilla will discuss how midyear budget cuts and the Governor’s proposed 2012-13 budget will impact Pleasant Hill and what the community can do to protect its schools. This event, sponsored by the Pleasant Hill Education/Schools Advisory Commission, is open to the public.
City Calendar of Events Architectural Review Commission February 2, 16 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane Large Community Room, 5:00pm Contact: 671-5209
Planning Commission February 14, 28 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane Council Chambers, 7:30pm Contact: 671-5209
City Council Meeting February 6, 27 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane Council Chambers, 7:30pm Contact: 671-5229
Zoning Administrator February 6, 23 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane Public Works Conference Room, 5:00pm Contact: 671-5209
Education Commission February 22 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane Large Community Room, 7:00pm Contact: 671-5229
PLEASANT HILL CITY BUZZ
John Hanecak, Mayor of Pleasant Hill Pleasant Hill Lions Club; the College people in our lives. Like so many of Park Athletic Boosters; the CYO Athyou who have families and challenging letics; 4-H and Diablo Adult Day Care, schedules, I’m aware that a meaningjust to name a few. Others prepare ful morning meal with your children tasty meals to support the Pleasant Hill before school or a lunch or dinner with Senior Center (Simply Wine), the efrelatives and friends is an accomplishforts of Contra Costa Interfaith Housment. Celebrate when it happens. ing (Ruby Slippers), the Rotary Club of Please consider stopping by one Pleasant Hill (St. Patrick’s Day Aucof the many events held to support tion), and the Monument Crisis Center (Heartfelt). Additionally, our schools hold countless dinner auction fundraisers to help all our children. Residents are asked to submit Some feasts will be hosted at bannominations for this year’s Fourth of quet halls and restaurants, not so much July theme. to raise funds, but to celebrate transi Mark your calendars! This year’s tions into new chapter of our lives. Fi4th of July for 2012 falls on a Wednesnally, meals within our homes can be day. Pleasant Hill 4th of July Commisa time of catching up with the special sion members, headed by President
Public Meeting
Civic Action Commission February 1 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane Small Community Room, 6:30pm Contact: 671-5229
Page 7
2012 Mayors Breakfast February 9 Back Forty,100 Coggins Dr., PH Tickets $25. 7:30am-9am Contact: 687-0700 Purchase online: http://phmayorsbreakfast.eventbrite. com/
For Confirmation Visit: www.ci.pleasant-hill.ca.us
Jim Bonato, are already hard at work raising funds and planning another fun-filled family event. Events will start off early with the ‘Firecracker 5K Fun Run’. All registration fees for the Fun Run support Pleasant Hill schools. The 2011 race generated $11,200, the largest amount to date. We hope to exceed that for
2012. Start training now and urge your friends and neighbors to sign up! As we did last year, Pleasant Hill residents may also submit nominations for the 2012 Parade Grand Marshal. Go to our website at http://www.phjuly4. com/ for more details about suggesting the theme and/or nominating the Grand Marshal. We are also on Facebook (Pleasant Hill 4th of July Commission). Help and ideas are always appreciated, but what we really need are more members on the 4th of July Commission. If you are interested, please contact Jim Bonato at 925-938-5433.
Martin Nelis Awarded Martin Nelis was awarded the Mayor’s Award by Mayor John Hanecak and former Mayor David Durant (who served as Mayor during the year for which the award was presented) at the Pleasant Hill Community Awards Night. In an interview, Durant said that he was honored to celebrate Martin and his work for the City of Pleasant Hill during 2011. Some of Martin’s contributions include the Mayor’s Breakfast, the Fourth of July events, the September 11 Commemoration, Community Service Day and the City’s 50th Anniversary celebration, to name a few. “Martin is unflappable and unflaggingly friendly. His dedication to the City of Pleasant Hill and its residents is a model for us all,” Durant said. He also noted that he was impressed by Martin’s acces-
sibility and responsiveness, as well as his intelligence, integrity, generosity of spirit, and commitment to maintaining Pleasant Hill’s “small town” feel.”
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PLEASANT HILL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 2/3 - Ambassador Meeting City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill, 8am - 9am 2/7 – Leadership Lunch (formerly Ambassador Lunch) Jack’s Restaurant, 60 Crescent Dr., Pleasant Hill, 11:45pm-1pm
2/27 – Government Affairs Committee Back Forty Texas BBQ, 4:30pm Please verify schedule at www.pleasanthillchamber.com • 925-687-0700
2/9 – Mayor’s Breakfast Back Forty Texas BBQ, 100 Coggins Drive, Pleasant Hill, 7:30am to 9:00am. Purchase tickets at: http://phmayorsbreakfast.eventbrite.com/
CALENDAR SPONSORED BY
2/16 – Board of Directors Meeting City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill, 7:45am
Ribbon Cutting Togo’s Eateries
“Togo’s Eateries, Inc., a West Coast Original, is famous for our big, made-to-order sandwiches stuffed with the freshest ingredients, and we are thrilled to bring them back to this Bay Area community,” said Renae Scott, a Bay Area Native who grew up in the Pleasant Hill area. Togo’s new store prototype showcases its fresh food with reach-in glass refrigerators, seethrough counters and vibrant new décor. It features premium ingredients including California avocados mashed daily, abundant quantities of high-quality meats and bread baked fresh every day. The restaurant is located at 55 Crescent Dr. Pleasant Hill. It’s open Mon. – Sat.10am – 9pm, Sun. 10am – 8:30pm Sunday. For more information, visit http://www.togos.com. Togo’s Photo courtesy of Sue Damhesel
Pleasant Hill Chamber Presents
2012 Mayors Breakfast Thursday, February 9, 2012 • 7:30am-9am Back Forty • 100 Coggins Dr., Pleasant Hill
Mayor of Pleasant Hill
Presentation on the Current Building Projects,
Pleasant Hill Rec & Park District
$25 per person includes breakfast!
Scan this QR code to purchase tickets:
MARTINEZ CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Ambassador Meeting – If interested in attending, contact Reba at (925)228-2345 or email Reba@martinezchamber.com
Members, Non-Members $20. Lunch will be provided. RSVP to info@martinezchamber. com. 12pm-1pm
2/7 – State of the City Breakfast – Creekside Church Auditorium, 444 Fig Tree Lane. Martinez Mayor Rob Schroder, Guest speaker: Paul Gabbard, General Manager, Shell Martinez Refinery. Enjoy a full gourmet breakfast buffet, $25. RSVP to info@martinezchamber.com. 7:30am-9:30am
2/13 – Office Closed - Lincoln’s Birthday 2/20 – Office Closed - President’s Day Please verify schedule at www.martinezchamber.com • 925-228-2345
CALENDAR SPONSORED BY
2/9 - Chamber Mixer – Wells Fargo Bank 902 Main Street, Martinez - Great Networking, Food, Fun, Raffle Prizes (bring a raffle prize and have your business announced!) 5:30pm-7:30pm
2/15 – Mixer – Magoo’s Grill of Pleasant Hill - 1250 Contra Costa Boulevard, Pleasant Hill, 5:30pm - 7:30pm
State of the City John Hanecak,
February 2012
To purchase tickets call 687-0700. Online at http://phmayorsbreakfast.eventbrite.com
2/16 – Educational Series – Tax Planning for Businesses in 2012 Presented by Phillip Winslow, CPA - Doors open at 11:30. John Muir Best Western Inn, 445 Muir Station Rd., $10 to Chamber
Ribbon Cutting Citrus Salon
Citrus Salon is conveniently located on Main Street in charming, historic, downtown Martinez within a friendly mix of shops and restaurants. Citrus offers a wide variety of services including haircuts, styling, coloring, highlights and makeup. Our stylists are highly experienced with all hair types - curly, straight, and ethnic, and do men’s cuts, dramatic styles and creative color. We have the mastery to maintain your funky style, or keep it chic. Citrus Salon offers exclusive bridal packages, which include hair, makeup and an intimate environment reserved for you and your bridal party only. Citrus Salon - affordable luxury that’s sure to please you, leaving you feeling refreshed and ready to take on your day with style. We are open Tuesday - Saturday by appointment • 631 Main Street, Martinez • 925.228.2010 • www.citrus-salon.com. Photo Courtesy of sweetnessandlightphoto.com
Martinez
Chamber Presents
State of the City Breakfast Tuesday, February 7, 2012 • 7:30am-9:30am State of the City Rob Schroder Mayor of Martinez
Guest Speaker Paul Gabbard General Manager, Shell Refinery
$25 per person includes a full gourmet buffet breakfast Creekside Church Auditorium, 444 Fig Tree Lane, Martinez
Call 228-2345 by 1/31 to RSVP • Check/Visa/Mastercard accepted
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February 2012
Real Estate Update On the Chinese calendar, 2012 may be known as the Year of the Dragon, but in real estate, I predict it will be looked back on as the Year of the Short Sale. It’s a well-known fact that lenders have an abundance of delinquent home mortgages and, historically, foreclosing on the property was the preferred so-
By Nathan Hitchcock leagues who list and sell bank-owned lution. But a major shift is now occurproperties. ring: lenders are clearly directing their efforts away from foreclosures and over Furthermore, with most lendto short sales. For those confused about ers, getting a short sale approved has gone from being a six to twelve month all these new real estate terms, a short nightmare to a sixty to ninety day sale is when an underwater homeownmoderately unpleasant experience. It’s er sells his home for less than he owes quite clear that the lenders are reallothe lender, with the lender agreeing to a discounted payoff of the loan balance. cating and augmenting their workforce to improve the short sale processing How can we tell this shift is octimeline as well as the overall expericurring? Although the number of deence. They still have a long way to go, linquent loans is down slightly, forebut they are at least moving in the right closure rates have slowed at a disprodirection. portionally higher rate. In Contra In addition, not only are some Costa County, despite a nearly identilenders becoming more accommodatcal number of total homes sold in Q4 ing with short sales, they are downright 2011 compared to Q4 2010, there were encouraging them. JPMorgan Chase 11.1% fewer bank-owned sales, while short sales increased by 22.5% over the has begun sending letters to selected delinquent borrowers offering them same period. Backing up these numbers are reports of major declines in as- up to $30,000 as an incentive to short sale their home. Yes, you read that corsigned inventory from my Realtor colrectly. They are paying delinquent borrowers to voluntarily sell their homes. Bank of America has reportedly rolled out a similar program. MOVING & STORAGE Why the change of heart? A highly litigious and liability-ridden environment has been created by the recent robo-signing scandal, leaving lenders Excellence • Experience • Efficiency much more inclined to approve a short sale on a property than to attempt a leOffice & Light Industrial • Seniors gal foreclosure. Residential• Storage & Warehousing It all stems from the not-so-wellknown fact that, with a significant percentage of mortgages, the lenders simply don’t possess the proper docuFamily owned and operated since 1975. mentation (loan docs) to prove that
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HOUSING NEWS
they own the loan and thus the legal right to foreclose on a delinquent borrower. How deep the rabbit hole goes and how it was created in the first place is a subject of great debate. If you’d like to learn more about it, the television show, “60 Minutes” produced a great report -- watch it by searching YouTube for “60 Minutes Mortgage Paperwork Mess.” Whatever the cause, the end result is a significantly higher legal cost incurred by lenders when foreclosing on their delinquent loans. In addition, when challenged by the borrower, lenders must defend in court the foreclosures they have performed, no doubt an even more costly endeavor. With a short sale, lenders are conveniently able to sidestep these issues because the borrowers are the ones selling the home, and the condition of loan docs becomes irrelevant. With that kind of incentive, barring a legislative bailout, lenders are undoubtedly going to look upon short sales with much greater affinity in the months to come. Nathan Hitchcock is the managing broker of Hitchcock Realty, a residential real estate brokerage and property management firm in downtown Pleasant Hill. He can be reached at nathan@ hitchcockrealty.com or (925) 8251100. Data contained herein was obtained from the CCAR Multiple Listing Service. Information is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed.
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MARTINEZ CITY BUZZ
February 2012
Mayor’s Message
Rob Schroder, Mayor of Martinez lition of all docks, starting with the In the sevenCity Manager received a letter dated unusable docks to the east, and the teen months that November 28, 2011 from the Acting dredging of that area and building I have written Director of DBW. The letter pointed brand new concrete docks with all new a mayor’s colout several issues with the Marina, inutilities. This plan was based on our umn for Comcluding the problems of siltation* and 2008 agreement with the Department munity Focus, I declining revenue due to siltation, all of Boating and Waterways (DBW), to have attempted to issues we were aware of and trying to hold off on paying principal on the keep all readers deal with. The final hammer of the letoutstanding loans to DBW used to informed on activities and capital imter was the statement, “Before making build the marina 50 years ago, which provements being planned and impleany future investments in the Marina, mented in the Martinez community. At would allow us to keep a positive cash current loan balances will need to be flow until the entire marina was releast three of those articles mentioned brought down. The Marina has $4.12 the Martinez Marina in one way or an- built, at which time we would pay off million in outstanding loan balances to the old loans. It also included a new other. One year ago, our plan was for the DBW. If the Marina is able to bring a complete and comprehensive rebuild loan in the amount of $3.111 million, these balances down to $1 million, the approved by DBA several years ago, a of the facility, including rebuilding DBW will be able to take a serious look new grant of $750,000 from DBW, a the breakwater to the east, repairing at another loan request.” dontation of $500,000 from a major the holes in the north breakwater, and Since the receipt of this letter and modifying the entrance to reduce silta- local industry, and $1.65 million of its crushing blow to our plan to rebuild Proposition WW money. tion. the Marina to a first class operation, Everything changed when the The plan also included the democity staff has been working on alternatives in order to keep the Marina a viable facility. The new strategies for the Marina look at what needs to be dredged and what needs to be rebuilt to Babysitter’s Workshop maximize the cash flow of the Marina The American Red Cross has recently updated the Babysitter’s Training, to give us the resources to make more adding new features such as a CD-ROM loaded with helpful information for improvements and pay down those old the babysitter. Babysitters will learn skills necessary to provide safe and responloans. The Marina subcommitte met sible care for children. in late January to review these options Topics will include running a small business, safety, safe play, disciand gave direction for the next steps. pline, basic infant care, and basic first aid. A book with CD-ROM, babysitter certificate, supplies and snacks are included. No CPR or First Aid Certification will be provided with this class. Students should bring a lunch. The workshop is for ages 11-15 years old and will be held on Thursday, February 17 from City Council Meeting 9:00am-3:30pm at the Martinez City Hall Council Chamber, 525 Henrietta February 1, 15 Street. The class fee is $65 for nonresidents and $60 for Martinez residents. 7:00pm-11:00pm Contact: 925-372-3500 Please pre-register by calling 372-3510.
City Messages
The new plan is to dredge the maximum amount that our spoils’ basins will hold (40,000 cubic yards) and dredge docks A, B, C and the end of D. This would also require some rebuilding of parts of D dock with improvements on A, B and C docks. We would use only $300,000 of Measure WW money and the $500,000 corporate donation. This scenario keeps the Marina open, increases its navigability, increases the number of berths, improves access to C & D docks, and, hopefully, brings the return of charter fishing boats. If this is approved by the full city council, construction and dredging will start soon and be completed by December of 2012. Concurrently, we are working with private investors and developers to plan some limited landside improvements such as a restaurant and other water and waterfront facilities. Up until this winter, we had been waiting to put all the pieces together on the waterside, but now we are moving on the landside facilities as well. *Silt is a fine sand, clay, or other material carried by running water and deposited as a sediment, especially in a channel or harbor.
City Calendar of Events
Rankin Aquatic Swim Center Job Openings Lifeguards, swim instructors and cashiers are needed for the Rankin Aquatic Center. All applicants must be a minimum of 15 years old and able to work mornings, afternoons, evenings, weekends and holidays. All employees teach or assist with teaching swim lessons. All first time lifeguards must complete a certification class. Job descriptions and application are on-line at www. cityofmartinez.org. Applications are due by March 16 and interviews will be held the week of March 26-30. The City of Martinez offers lifeguard class discounts to new uncertified lifeguard candidates offered a job. Candidate must complete the class to become employed. For more information, contact Patty Lorick at 925-372-3551.
Planning Commission Meeting February 14, 28 7:00pm-11:00pm Contact: 925-372-3500
Design Review Meeting February 8, 22 3:00pm-5:00pm Contact: 925-372-3500
Zoning Administrator Meeting February 1, 15 3:00pm-5:00pm Contact: 925-372-3500
General Plan Update/Task Force Meeting February 8 Martinez Senior Center, 818 Green Street 6:30pm-9:30pm
All City Meetings at City Hall, 525 Henrietta Street, Unless Otherwise Indicated
Park, Recreation, Marina & Cultural Commission February 21 7:00pm-11:00pm
City offices closed February 13. City offices closed February 20.
For Confirmation Visit: www.cityofmartinez.org
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February 2012
Pair Up
Page 11
CORKS AND FORKS
With La Sommelierre Maria Terry Warming Syrah Syrah is one of those dense red wines that make you feel warm just by looking at it. A robust wine, Syrah has black fruit flavors of berry and dried plum as well as notes of tobacco and dark soil. Also, Syrah is most often aged in toasted oak barrels, which impart the flavor of bacon. Here is a meal that pairs each course with a different version of Syrah wine.
New World Syrah from California, Oregon and Washington tends to be more fruit forward and lower in acid than French Syrah. Potato Leek Soup with Sausage Lardon is a great starter on a cold winter night. This soup is rich and creamy and accented with pork flavors; it is perfect for Syrah. The fat balances the high alcohol and pork flavors are echoed in the wine. In the Old World (read: Europe),
Alton Brown’s Pot Roast INGREDIENTS 1 (2-pound) blade cut chuck roast 2 teaspoons kosher salt 2 teaspoons cumin Vegetable oil 1 medium onion, chopped 5 to 6 cloves garlic, smashed 1 cup tomato juice 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar 1 cup cocktail olives, drained and broken 1/2 cup dark raisins DIRECTIONS Preheat the oven to 200°. Place a wide, heavy skillet over high heat for 2 minutes. Meanwhile, rub both sides of meat with the salt and cumin. Brown meat on both sides and remove from
pan. Add just enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom of the pan then add the onion and garlic. Stir constantly until onion is softened. Add the tomato juice, vinegar, olives, and raisins. Bring to a boil and reduce the liquid by half. Create a pouch with wide, heavy duty aluminum foil. Place half the reduced liquid/solid mixture on the foil, add the roast, and then top with the remaining mixture. Close the pouch, and wrap tightly in another complete layer of foil. Cook for 3 to 3 1/2 hours until very tender. Puree the cooking liquids and solids into a sauce to serve alongside if desired. Yield: 6-8 Servings
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Syrah is celebrated in southern France. The most elegant Syrah wines come from the Northern Rhone and have fine-grained tannins. Slightly more rustic versions are found in the Southern Rhone and the vast Languedoc-Roussillon. I have chosen Alton Brown’s Pot Roast recipe to pair with a French Syrah as the main course. I like Alton’s recipe because it uses balsamic vinegar (to balance the higher acid found in French wines), cocktail olives (which have a briny, earthy characteristic) and raisins (to echo the dark fruit in the wine). Add your favorite starch to catch the juices and something green to make your mother happy and you have a complete plate. To end the meal with a touch of sweetness, head back to the states where Syrah is often made into a delicious port-style wine. The deep flavors of the Syrah grape intensify as the grapes hang on the vine and the high alcohol is perfectly balanced by the extra sugar. The classic pairing with port-style wines is Stilton, however, if you prefer less stinky
cheese, try Gruyere. The tiny, crunchy crystals in Gruyere are a nice contrast to the silky texture of the wine. And, the fruit in the wine is intensified by the sharp, nutty flavors in Gruyere. So, go on. Pair Up! Maria Terry is a Certified Sommelier and Wine Educator in the San Francisco Bay Area. For more great wines and information please visit Maria’s website at www.LaSommelierre. com.
Potato Leek Soup with Sausage Lardon INGREDIENTS 1 large or 2 small leeks, about 1 pound 2 bay leaves 2 tablespoons butter 2 strips bacon, chopped 1/2 cup dry white wine 5 cups chicken stock 1 to 1 1/4 pounds russet potatoes, diced 1 1/2 teaspoons salt 3/4 teaspoon white pepper 1/2 to 3/4 cup crème fraîche or heavy cream 2 tsp. fresh thyme or 1 tsp. dried thyme 2 tablespoons snipped chives, garnish 2oz. link sausage, cut into ¾” x ½” pieces, fried crisp DIRECTIONS Trim the green portions of the leek. Using a sharp knife, halve the
white part of the leek lengthwise and rinse well under cold running water to rid the leek of any sand. Slice thinly crosswise and set aside. In a large soup pot over medium heat, melt the butter and add the bacon. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the bacon is very soft and has rendered most of its fat. Add the chopped leeks and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes. Add the wine and bring to a boil. Add the bay leaves, chicken stock, potatoes, salt and white pepper, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are falling apart and the soup is very flavorful. Remove the bay leaves and puree the soup with an immersion blender. Stir in the crème fraîche, thyme and adjust the seasoning. Top with sausage lardon. Yield: 8 Cups
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February 2012
SENIOR ENVY
Sandwich Generation Stretched Thin Financially
By Rod Harris, Generation Mortgage of the “Sandwich Generation” – a sector many financial hardships facing the Sandlargely comprised of Baby Boomers who wich Generation. With unemployment at are caring for their aging parents while record highs, it is no surprise that 23% of supporting their own children. The study those polled have lost a job and an addifound that a majority of the Sandwich tional 24% have taken a cut in pay or benGeneration give their household’s current efits. This has resulted in 17% failing to financial situation a negative rating and are make a mortgage or rent payment on time having to make tough financial decisions due to insufficient funds. and cutbacks. Finances have forced the Sandwich The eye-opening results shed light on Generation to make serious changes in their spending habits. Seventy-three percent have decreased spending on entertainment, recreation or eating out. More249 Gregory Lane (925) 798-8788 over, 43% have decreased overall spendFeb. 6 & Feb. 27 - Zumba Gold. Zumba is a fusion of Latin and International music ing on food or groceries and three out of and dance themes creating an exciting and effective fitness program. For the active five of those polled say it is difficult to be older adult, the true beginner, and people not used to exercising. Dances higha caregiver of their parents and/or in-laws lighted in this class include the Merengue, Salsa Cha Cha, Cumbia, Salsa, Rock & Roll, Belly Dance, Flamenco, and Tango. 10:10am-11am. Instructor: Jo Nash. $12 non while financially supporting their children. member/$10 member; St. Andrews Church, 1601 Mary Dr. The study also uncovered that 78% of Feb. 24 - Mardi Gras Social. Let us fill your wine glass with some wonderful wine those polled said they are worried about selections (non-alcoholic available). Appetizers will be served. 3pm-5pm. Sponsored having enough money to retire comfortby the Chateaus of Pleasant Hill, 175 Cleaveland Rd. Tickets available at the Little ably and 34% have restructured their reHouse, 249 Gregory Ln. $7 presale/ $10 at the door. tirement plan in the last year due to finanFeb. 26 - Bunco. Potluck at 2pm; Bunco begins at 3pm. Fun and friendly atmosphere cial reasons. Even more distressing, 52% where no prior knowledge of the game is necessary! Buy your ticket at the Senior
Sixty-four perfect of people who support both their parents and children describe their financial situation as negative. Generation Mortgage Company and Zogby International released alarming new data detailing the financial tribulations
Pleasant Hill Senior Activities
Center office (relocated to the Little House.) Tickets: $4 plus bring potluck item to feed four people. VFW Bldg.: 1919 Wendell Lane. March 9 - Wine, Art & Silent Auction Fundraiser. Sip a glass of wine while browsing the local artists’ work. Shop for that perfect piece and place your bets at the silent auction! 5pm-7:30pm. Tickets available at the Senior Center. Proceeds benefit the NEW Senior Center and Teen Center. Call the Senior Center for more info. on the event. Artists will be local and some are from the Martinez Arts Association. Winslow Center, 2590 Pleasant Hill Rd. $15 Members/ $18 General.
Martinez Senior Activities 818 Green St. (925) 370-8770 Feb. 2 - 23 - Zumba Gold - Mondays. Zumba Gold fuses Latin and International rhythms with easy-to-follow dance moves for 50 minutes of non-stop fun. Designed for the active older adult or Zumba beginner. 12:30pm- 1:15pm. Instructor: Jo Nash. Cost: $20 per session (4 classes). We have added a second class, but need a minimum of 10 participants. Please call to register (925) 370-8770. Feb. 17 & 24 - AARP Driver Safety Training Program. This 8-hour classroom course is designed for motorists over the age of 50 to help drivers refine existing skills and develop safe, defensive driving techniques. 11am – 3:45pm. $12 for AARP members and $14 for non. Register early. Max. of 20 participants. Call the center to register: (925) 370-8770. Feb. 24 – Mar. 30 - Meditation for Health and Well-Being Class. Learn how to relax, quiet the mind, and tune in to a higher state of consciousness. 10:30am – 11:30am. Instructor Mary Bruns has practiced and taught meditation for over 25 years. $25 per session (5 classes). April 11 - Safari West - The spirit of Africa in the heart of the Wine Country. Explore the 400 acres of Safari West in a two-hour, open-air authentic safari vehicle. Enjoy a walking tour of the grounds housing cheetah, giraffes, primates and birds soaring over in their amazing open-air aviary. (The ride on the open-air jeep can get bumpy.) Enjoy a hosted buffet lunch. We are sharing a bus with Fremont’s Senior Center so seating is limited. Members’ sign-up begins 2/9 at 10 am. Non-members’ sign up if space available on 2/23. Escort: Marion Vaeth; $140. Checks payable to “City of Martinez”.
responded that they plan to work part time during retirement to make ends meet. “As the Sandwich Generation looks towards retirement,” commented Jeff Lewis, Chairman of the Board of Generation Mortgage Company, “they should become educated on their available financial options. One of the financial options that is often overlooked is a reverse mortgage.” Rod Harris is a Reverse Mortgage Professional with Generation Mortgage. He can be reached at rod.harris@generationmortgage.com or 1-866-629-3720. Generation Mortgage is Better Business Bureau accredited, an Equal Housing Lender and member of Nat’l Reverse Mortgage Lending Association. NMLS # 1319, cc 2010 Generation Mortgage Co. All Rights Reserved. Zogby International was commissioned by Generation Mortgage to conduct an online survey of 271 adults who have children and are Caregivers of parent(s). The survey was conducted from August 9-11, 2010. A sampling of Zogby International’s online panel, which is representative of the adult population of the US, was invited to participate. Slight weights were added to region, age, gender and education to more accurately reflect the population. The Margin of Error is +/- 6.1 percentage points. MOE are higher in subgroups and the calculation is for sampling error only.
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February 2012
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Bringing Back the Natives Registration is now open for the eighth annual “Bringing Back the Natives Garden Tour” throughout Alameda and Contra Costa counties on Sunday, May 6 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Participants can choose from fifty showcase native plant gardens and all tours are self-guided and free. What’s special about California native plants? They are adapted to our soil and climate, easy to care for, naturally drought tolerant and attractive to many forms of wildlife. California native plants are beautiful and display a sense of place that is uniquely Californian. Visitors to this event will have the opportunity to learn how to select and care for California native plants; lower water bills; design a low-maintenance garden; attract butterflies, birds, and bees; and garden without using pesticides. More than fifty talks will be offered throughout the day. At least 7,000 people are expected to register for this annual event so early registration is highly recommended.
This year’s delightful collection ranges from large gardens in the hills to small front gardens in the flats, with styles that run the gamut from restoration gardens with local native plants to the horticultural available suite of natives throughout California. Gardens will include designs and installations by
both professionals and homeowners. For photographs of each garden, extensive descriptions, plant lists, and nurseries that sell native plants, go to www.bringingbackthenatives.net/ preview. Locating landscape designers familiar with native plant gardens can also be found on the website; many of
family counseling to academic tutoring and mentorship in the after-school program called Homework Club. “I was involved with Homework Club as a tutor when it first started,” said Mayor Hanecak.” In fact, in the past, we have brought kids from Garden Park to be Mayor for the Day in Pleasant Hill. I believe that, especially for children, supportive housing works. Secure housing coupled with on-site educational and mental health assistance as well as exposure to outside opportunities will help them break the cycle of poverty.” Recently, the City of Pleasant Hill provided funding to replace the roof at Garden Park Apartments, resulting in improved functionality, appearance and energy conservation. The city is also supportive of CCIH’s community building expansion plans. The remodeled building will create an additional apartment for another needy family and allow for more programming space
for both children and families. Youth from CCIH’s Garden Park Apartments will present the award to Mayor Hanecak on February 4 at the Contra Costa Country Club. Sure to be the evening’s highlight, each will share their stories of defying the odds. Included in this elegant evening of hors d’oeuvres, dinner and dancing will be live performances by Amanda King, local diva of little known gems from the “great American songbook,” as well as the popular band, Other People’s Money. Guests may bid on unique silent auction items, donated by local merchants, and a fantastic selection of live auction items. Donations to this event are still being accepted and tickets are still available. For further information, donations or questions, please contact Contra Costa Interfaith Housing, 3164 Putnam Boulevard, Suite C, Walnut Creek, CA 94597, 925-944-2244; fax 925-944-2248 or email admin@ccinterfaithhousing.org. For general informa-
these designers offer discount consultations to tour participants. A companion feature, the Native Plant Sale Extravaganza, will take place on Saturday and Sunday, May 5 and 6. This exclusive sale features a number of native plant nurseries that carry large quantities of hard-to-find California natives. This sale offers a good selection of native plants and provides a relaxed shopping experience. Knowledgeable staff will be on hand to help shoppers select the right plants for their gardens. Admission to the Bringing Back the Natives Garden Tour is free. Since this tour will fill, register early to ensure a place. Registration will close on April 25 or when the tour is full, which ever comes first. Volunteers are needed. Register or volunteer at http://www. bringingbackthenatives.net/. For more information, contact Kathy@KathyKramerConsulting.net or call (510) 236-9558 between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. or visit our website at www. bringingbackthenatives.net
Pleasant Hill Receives Children’s Choice Award At Ruby Slippers 2012 “There’s No Place Like Home” fundraising gala benefiting Contra Costa Interfaith Housing (CCIH), Pleasant Hill Mayor John Hanecak will accept the coveted Children’s Choice Award in recognition of Pleasant Hill’s efforts to improve the lives of vulnerable Contra Costa youth and their families. Last year, Senator Mark DeSaulnier was presented with the award for his work with California’s children and at-risk families. The City of Pleasant Hill has provided extraordinary support of the youth living at Garden Park Apartments (GPA), CCIH’s 27-unit housing complex serving formerly homeless families with special needs. At GPA, these vulnerable children have a chance to grow up in a stable and supportive community where they can access a variety of support services designed to prevent the recurrence of homelessness and bolster their chances of success. On-site services range from
tion or to purchase tickets, please visit our website at: www.ccinterfaithhousing.org. 100% of the funds raised at Ruby Slippers 2012 will support CCIH’s vital services. Contra Costa Interfaith Housing (CCIH) is a non-profit, charitable human services organization dedicated to ending the trauma of homelessness. CCIH partners with affordable housing developers to provide a combination of housing that is affordable to extremely low income Contra Costa residents and on-site support services that help stabilize and build self-sufficiency. CCIH’s programs are evidence-based and demonstrate positive, measurable impacts. CCIH currently has four programs located in Pleasant Hill, Concord, Bay Point, and Pittsburg, serving 150 families. The on-site support services CCIH provides at all sites help high-risk families stabilize and become healthy and contributing members of society.
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February 2012
Raising Funds for Friends of Faith On November 29, 2011, California Pacific Federal Credit Union presented a check for over $1,700 to Friends of Faith, Inc. Employees of California Pacific Federal Credit Union were joined by Barbara Rogers (CBS-5 & Comcast Spotlight), Rosie Allen (KGO 810 AM) and Renel Brooks-Moon (P.A. Announcer, SF Giants & 98.1 KISS FM) for the presentation. The small credit union with just twelve employees is passionate about a cause that continues to touch so many, including a number of their own staff and members over recent years. For the last seven years, the credit union’s employees have come up with a variety of fundraising activities, including the annual sale of t-shirts that sport a new design every year to incorporate the credit union’s logo with the well-known pink Breast Cancer Awareness ribbon. Inspired by the credit union’s efforts to get involved with the Friends of Faith organization, Martinez Restaurateur Roxanne Cole (Roxx on Main) and Sommelier Sean Andrade
(Andrade Wine Group of Walnut Creek) hosted a ‘Bubbles for Boobies’ fundraiser in October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This successful cocktail party event included a silent auction and raffle and resulted in a nearly $2,000 donation. “When the topic of breast cancer comes up, it is apparent just how far-reaching this disease is. So many have experienced the fight with breast cancer personally or with a family member, co-worker or friend. Friends of Faith provides a meaningful service to so many local low-income and uninsured women. They do a wonderful job of carrying forward Faith Fancher’s vision,” said Cole. Friends of Faith (Fancher), Inc. is a non-profit organization started by KTVU Newswoman Faith Fancher after she was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1997. Faith ultimately lost her battle with breast cancer in 2003, but the Friends of Faith, Inc. organization continues to promote breast cancer awareness and provide support services
Roxanne Cole, Barbara Rogers, Fadhila Holman, Cheri Dove, Sean Andrade, Rosie Allen and former Friends of Faith Board President, Thomasina Woida, toast a successful Bubbles for Boobies fundraiser.
to uninsured and underserved women battling Breast Cancer throughout the local Bay Area. For information about Friends of
Faith, Inc., please visit www.faithfancher.org. For more information about California Pacific FCU, please visit www. calpacfcu.org or call (925) 677-0850.
Employees of California Pacific FCU present a check to Barbara Rogers (CBS 5 TV- Ret), Rosie Allen (KGO 810AM – Ret) and Renel Brooks-Moon (P.A. Announcer, SF Giants & 98.1 KISS FM).
February 2012
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HIGH SCHOOL HAPPENINGS
Alhambra Sock Dolls
Alhambra Art teacher, Denise Fuller, had her students create sock dolls as part of an art project that were later donated to child patients at UCSF last December. “Every year, my art survey students learn how to hand sew a doll made from one sock. They learn the basic stitches and how to sew on buttons. As part of the assignment, students are to create two sock dolls (one to keep and one to give). At the end of
Page 15
Poetry Out Loud
the assignment, I donate over 100 dolls to UCSF Children’s hospital to give to children undergoing treatment. Many of the dolls are given to young patients and their siblings through the Barry Bonds Family Resource center,” said Fuller. This was the third year that Ms. Fuller has assigned this project and donated the dolls. “The first year, we donated dolls to a non-profit in Concord. I provide all the materials necessary to create the sock dolls. Most of the socks are purchased from the dollar store, but I also accept clean mismatched socks from the staff at Alhambra High School. Quite often, students will bring in additional socks to create more than just the required two. They give them away to younger siblings or friends as Christmas gifts. I had one young man make six dolls for all his nieces and nephews. The idea of using socks and sewing all of the facial features (buttons, etc.) is to provide a doll that can be put in the washer and dryer.”
By Kit Hein, CPHS Teacher Librarian report “Reading at Risk,” that found a Students from College Park High dramatic decline in literary reading, School competed in Poetry Out Loud especially among young readers. this year for the very first time. Nate Nate will go on to the Contra Greensides received the title of 2012 Costa County competition, to be held CPHS Poetry Out Loud Champion. at the Willows Theater in the Willows Natalie Hill was first runner up and Shopping Center on February 11 at 10 Suzannah Thomas came in third. am. The county competition, spon Poetry Out Loud is a national arts sored by the Arts & Culture Commiseducation program that encourages sion of Contra Costa County (AC5), the study of great poetry by offering is open to all who wish to attend and educational materials and a dynamic is free of charge. College Park families recitation competition to high schools and the Pleasant Hill community are across the country. Poetry Out Loud encouraged to attend and support Nate competitions start in the classroom, in his quest to be a national champion. then at the school, county, state, and More information about the comnational finals, similar to the strucpetition can be found at www.poetryture of the spelling bee. The national outloud.org or http://www.ac5.org/ initiative is part of an attempt to bring events-programs/poetry-out-loud literary arts to students, a critical need in U.S. schools, according to an NEA
Students pictured, from left: Suzannah Thomas, Nate Greensides, Nikki Chand, Natalie Hill
New College Park Web Store Up and Running!
On this site you will be able to access your purchase history, pay fines, make donations and purchase items such as AP tests, event tickets, bus passes etc. The new Web Store’s address is: http://intouch.mdusd.org/. Click on the Athletics tab and Spiritwear to purchase College Park sweatshirts, T-shirts, hats and more! Spiritwear is always available through the Athletic Boosters Web store via http://cphs.mdusd.org/ home page as well.
College Park Memory Tiles 2/29/12
2/29/12
Purchase a tile to commemorate a special student’s graduation or achievement, a caring teacher, honored alumni or be creative! We’ll add your tile to the Memory Wall outside the College Park library. The 6” by 6” tiles are custom engraved to your specifications by Laser Impressions and can have up to 4 lines of text with 16 characters per line. Clip Art of “CPHS” or the CP Falcon can also be added. Tiles are $50 each, or $55 with clip art. Order forms are available online at the CP Web Store or in the front office. Orders are due by Friday, June 8, 2012.
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HOME TEAM
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February 2012
Season Ticket By Chuck Nan
Rutley Earns Honors Senior back Brandon Rutley earned Second-Team All-Western Athletic Conference honors and was also selected the 2011 San Jose State Offensive Player of the Year. Rutley, an Alhambra graduate, rushed for 903 yards and 12 touchdowns, caught 27 passes for 336 yards and had 344 return yards for the Spartans. His 12 TDs led the team. His 1,583 all-purpose yards (143.9 per game) were among the nation’s leaders. In his solid four-year career at SJSU, Rutley played 45 games, gained 1,779 yards rushing, scored 21 touchdowns and registered 668 yards receiving. Rutley also passed for one touchdown in his career, completing 4-of-7 overall. Travis Raciti College Park alumnus Travis Raciti was named the Western Athletic Conference Defensive Freshman of the Year by Yahoo Sports. Raciti plays nose tackle for San Jose State and started all 12 games this past season for the Spartans. The rugged giant had 3 1/2 tackles for losses and one sack in the season. This includes a season-high seven tackles against rival Nevada. Rick Reger Local MMA fighter Rick “Boomer” Reger notched his second professional victory in December at Thunder Valley. Reger (2-0) has made quick work of his opponents as he has scored easy wins in his first two bouts, one via a TKO
and one by submission. For his efforts, Reger has been invited to participate in the prestigious Bellator fight show in Philadelphia (Bellator is Latin for warrior). Bellator is entering its sixth-season and is televised on MTV2 and Tr3s (MTV3 -Spanish). Reger is also currently filming a music video entitled “Not the Same” with local recording artist WestCoast Trey. Connor Hornsby Martinez resident and Acalanes senior Connor Hornsby signed a National Letter of Intent to play at St. Mary’s College. The senior second baseman was chosen as a Second-Team All-DFAL performer in 2011. Hornsby is the Dons spark plug at the top of the line-up, batting in the leadoff slot. He helped lead Acalanes to the NCS D III co-championship. Elliott Waterman Pitcher Elliott Waterman is in his junior year at the University of San Francisco. Waterman, a left-hander, anchors the Dons bullpen. In 2011, Waterman had a 3.19 ERA in 22 games. He had a 6-2 record with one save as he struck-out 41 batters in 42 innings. Waterman will be back in the area May 25-27 as he faces the Gaels of SMC in Moraga. Nikki Gentile Hard-hitting slugger Nikki Gentile is in her sophomore season at the University of Iowa. In 2011, the
Alhambra alum batted .200 with two home runs and nine RBIs for the Lady Hawkeyes. In all, Gentile played in 43 games. Nikki and the Hawks play many early-season games here in California,
including stops in Palm Springs, Long Beach and Fullerton.
Boys JV Soccer
On January 12, the Alhambra JV soccer team played host to the College Park Falcons. The Falcons had a 3 – 0 lead into the half and ended the game with a 4 – 0 win. Pictured is #1 Center Midfielder, Brennen Williams up against the Bulldogs #31, Edwin Cerda. Photo Jennifer Neys
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2/29/12
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February 2012
CP Girls Soccer Best Start Ever
The Girls Varsity Soccer team is having its best season in several years. With just over half of the league season played, the Lady Falcons are 7 – 0 and in sole possession of first place, a full two games ahead of archrival Clayton Valley. Along the way, the team has scored a league leading twenty-nine goals, while surrendering only six. Next week, the team travels to games against Berean (January 24) and Ygnacio Valley (January 26). Earlier in the year, Ygnacio Valley shared first place with College Park until the girls defeated them 3 – 0, handing Ygnacio Valley their first loss of the year. The team has scored three very important come-from-behind victories on their way to their perfect season. In the first game, the girls travelled to Northgate and gave up an early goal to
go into half time down 1 – 0. However, a gritty second half performance and two late goals secured a 2 – 1 College Park victory. In the fifth game, Clayton Valley visited College Park with only one loss and looking to take a piece of first place. Again, the Lady Falcons gave up a first half goal, only to shut down Clayton Valley the rest of the way to record another 2 – 1 victory. In the team’s most recent game, visiting Northgate looked to avenge the defeat in the first game and took an early 2 – 0 lead. The girls stayed tough and focused, scored two goals to go into halftime tied, then added two goals in the second half for a 4 – 2 win. The team has two more home games (January 31 against Concord and February 9 against Mt. Diablo), both at 3:30 p.m.
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HOME TEAM
Northgate Hosted the Falcons
The Northgate Broncos varsity team outscored the Falcons by just one basket to win 56-54, College Park’s first league loss, in the high-energy league game January 20th. The Daily Duo, senior twins Michael and John Daily, demonstrated great leadership and sportsmanship in the nail biter game, scoring 16 and 10 points respectively, with another senior, Justin Smith, shooting for 15.
The Falcon JV team has enjoyed a successful season so far. The 75-59 victory over the Broncos secures College Park’s undefeated in league status and brings their overall season record to 18-1. Mark your calendars for the next match up between these rivals February 14th at College Park High. Freshmen play at 4pm, JV at 5:30pm and Varsity at 7pm.
College Park High School Athletic Boosters 22nd Annual Crab Feed Live and Silent AucƟon / Dancing rink ur d rly. o y Buy ets ea 00 tick r $20. 5 fo
Saturday, February 18, 2012 The Shadelands Art Center 111 N. Wiget Lane, Walnut Creek
(corner of Ygnacio Valley Road and N. Wiget Lane)
Buy y tick our d r e 5 fo ts ear ink ly r $2 0.0 . 0
Bronco Jonny Crosthwaite vs Falcon John Daily Photo Courtesy of Tod Gomes, creativelookphoto.com
6:00 pm – Midnight $55 per person ReservaƟons for single Ɵckets or whole tables (max 10 per table) can be made online at: hƩp://www.cphsboosters.com This event is the largest annual fund raiser held by the Boosters. Proceeds from this event help pay for our full-Ɵme athleƟc trainer, scholarships to ve senior scholar athletes, and equipment, services, and facility improvements for the benet of ALL CPHS athleƟc programs.
We hope to see you there!
*ReservaƟons will be secured only by receipt of payment. While we will do everything possible to honor seaƟng requests, there is no guarantee. SeaƟng will be assigned on a rst-come, rst-serve basis. If you’re unable to order tickets online, please use this form to mail in your reservation request.
Please reserve _____ Ɵcket(s) and/or _______ table(s) Name/s: (Please include names of all guests to be seated.)
Address: Phone:
(required for conrmaƟon)
Email:
(required for conrmaƟon)
Please mail completed reservaƟon form to: College Park High School AƩn: AthleƟc Boosters 201 Viking Drive Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
Tickets will be held at the door. NO REFUNDS WILL BE GIVEN Must be 21 to aƩend
Bronco Taylor Mickle stuffing the ball held by Falcon Troy Brown Photo Courtesy of Tod Gomes, creativelookphoto.com
Page 18
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Local Swimmer Competes in Canada Jordan Fetterman, a 7th grader at Sequoia Middle School, represented Pacific Swimming on their All-Star team for a competition in Vancouver, BC on January 7-8. Jordan, along with seven other swimmers, competed in the 11/12 year-old boys bracket. In all, Pacific Swimming sent four teams, including boys and girls, in the 11/12 and 13/14 age groups, each consisting of eight swimmers. The 32 swimmers competed against teams from Southern California, Oregon, Washington and British Columbia, Canada. Since it was an international competition, all the U.S. swimmers had to get used to swimming in a 25-meter pool versus their usual 25-yard pool. Each day, Jordan swam three individual events and two relays for the team. After the 1st day of competition, Pacific Swimming was neck and neck with Southern California, but in the end, Pacific Swimming came out 2nd with 837.50 points to a really strong Southern California team with 966 points. Besides practicing and competing, a lot of time
February 2012
2011 FALL ALL-LEAGUE PERFORMERS COLLEGE PARK Boys Cross-Country
First-Team: Parker Marson and Nathaniel Comar Honorable Mention: Dillon Yasutake, TJ Tamura and Ryota Johnson
Girls Cross-Country
Most Valuable: Kendall Stuscavage First-Team: Kazune Shidara and Amelia Lowry Second-Team: Caitlin Schillings, Parisa Broomand and Mariana Perez Honorable Mention: Victoria Miguel
Football
Co-Most Valuable Player: Daivon Ballard First-Team Offense: Jordan Louis and Dylan Lamb First-Team Defense: Rocky Moore and Kasey Piper Second-Team Offense: Ryan Hughes, Jaelen Collins, Miles Wood, Ayrton Osorio, Jerry Jeffers and Tanner Utler Second-Team Defense: Dylan Lamb, Sean Hennessey, Matt DeSilva and Jordan Louis Honorable Mention Offense: Jack DeMers Honorable Mention Defense: Brandon Basker, David Fabian and Demitri Salido
was spent hanging out and getting to know swimmers he normally swims against. Jordan remarked that, “Swimming to represent my area is something I will never forget.” Jordan swims 1-1/2 hours every afternoon plus an occasional Saturday or morning practice. He swims with the Terrapins Swim Team in Concord. Pacific Swimming covers all of Northern California, as well as parts of Nevada.
Elks Lodge Hoop Shoot
Walnut Creek Elks Lodge 1811 hosted its 40th annual hoop shoot at De La Salle High School, Concord. Several hundred contestants attended from the greater Bay Area for top prizes and a chance to move forward to Central District competition.
Girls Tennis
First-Team Singles: Gina Alvarez Second-Team Singles: Lauren Menenghetti
Girls Volleyball
First-Team: Anni Tappi Second-Team: Gina DeLuca Honorable Mention: Taylor Crawford
Boys Water Polo
Co-Most Valuable Player: Drew Pitcher First-Team: Matthew Kennedy Second-Team: Lucas Kelso and Diego Tambazidis Honorable Mention: Hunter Kane and Brandon Evans
Girls Water Polo
Honorable Mention: Lindsay Brown
ALHAMBRA Boys Cross-Country
First-Team: Evan Quigley
Football
First-Team Offense: Taylor Poyadue and Stevie Rossi First-Team Defense: Justin Green Second-Team Defense: Stevie Rossi and Korey Lamberts Honorable Mention: Mitchell Wilson and Miguel Lara
Girls Tennis
Honorable Mention Singles: Haley Alexander Honorable Mention Doubles: Angie Figueroa and Jocelyn Thomas
Girls Volleyball
Second-Team: Maddie Ward Honorable Mention: Camillie Woerner
Boys Water Polo
First-Team: Dominic Lucido Second-Team: Sam Randall and Brandon Simons Honorable Mention: Troy Alexander, Michael Bull and Vince Farley
Girls Water Polo Winners of the top sports are listed from front L-R Shingo O’Flaherty, Stephanie Leighton, Sophia Leighton, Connor Moses, Clare Driscoll, Brianna Rodriquez, Rick Trapp, Rear L-R, Mike Rittenhouse Elks youth director for past 25 years, Connor Snarr, Jacob Corpus, Danielle Trapp, David Gamba, Jordan Allred, Kaitlin Miller, Connor Lawson, Emmy Dunn, Chase Bennett and Garrick Gouveia, Elks ER
First-Team: Alex Manuli Second-Team: Molly West Honorable Mention: Jayni Abraham, Stephanie Bramlett, Karin Metzgar and Cami Vereschagin
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February 2012
Page 19
College Park Lacrosse Players Get Their Man By Randy Wanser A popular version of the Ten Native American Commandments includes: #3. Show great respect for your fellow beings. #6. Do what you know to be right. #10. Take full responsibility for your actions. Consider these commandments as Page One of the playbook for College Park High School boys’ varsity lacrosse players and their coach, Eric Rumpf. When organized team practices begin this month, Rumpf will embark on his second season at College Park, coaching the game – and values – that are near and dear to his heart. “Lacrosse was first played by Native Americans,” explains Rumpf. “The sport is imbued with the best attributes of their culture: honor and integrity. Lacrosse players learn that there is no complaining, no cheating, and no dirty play. Play hard. Play fierce. But, play clean. Above all, honor the game.” If it sounds like Rumpf knows a thing or two about lacrosse – he does. Thirty years experience as a player, coach and referee qualify him as a relative expert. On the west coast of the United States, that puts him in rare company. Modern lacrosse is a team sport
College Park Boys’ Varsity Lacrosse Coach Eric Rumpf provides hands-on instruction to Defenseman Jake Gonzales at a practice session in Spring, 2011. Photo Credit: Randy Wanser
played with a small rubber ball and netted sticks that are used to catch, hold, pass and shoot the ball into the opponent’s goal. It took root in the Northeast in the early 1900s, primarily in New York (from which Rumpf hails), Maryland and Virginia. The sport began to spread west in the latter part of the 20th century, eventually reaching California. College Park began a competitive lacrosse program just seven years ago. Rumpf ’s tenure as coach began last year, under
most unusual circumstances. “In 2010, I would take my daughters to soccer training on the same athletic fields where the lacrosse team practiced,” Rumpf recalls. “Lacrosse is my thing. So, I’d hang around on the periphery and occasionally give an opinion or some advice. Well, after that season, the lacrosse team found themselves without a coach. Some of the players starting asking my daughters, ‘Can your Dad coach the team?’ These kids must have asked
twice a week, from November until midJanuary. How could I turn them down?” One of Rumpf ’s primary objectives is to ensure that lacrosse exists cooperatively among the many sports programs at College Park. According to Rumpf, the skill set deployed in lacrosse overlaps closely with skills used in basketball, soccer and ice hockey. He notes that lacrosse also provides complimentary training to football. “Lacrosse is a ‘warrior sport,’ like football,” Rumpf boasts. “Both sports involve physical contact and north-south advancement on the field. However, Lacrosse moves faster, which enhances a player’s field awareness. And lacrosse players do not tend to get as beat up. Knee and shoulder injuries are uncommon in lacrosse.” Rumpf says his goals for the lacrosse program are for players to learn and appreciate the game and hopefully, advance to playing in college and into their adult lives. With the role model Rumpf provides and the enthusiasm his players exhibit, those goals would appear attainable. Lacrosse tryouts begin February 6. Email Coach Rumpf for more information:ericrumpf@earthlink.net.
Notes From a (Playing) Field Hospital With a son who has played competitive soccer for many years, I have seen a number of sports’ injuries, particularly recurrent ones. As a licensed acupuncturist and herbalist with years of additional training in different forms of manipulation and soft-tissue therapies, I offer some simple suggestions for better sports’ nutrition that go a long way to create stronger, more successful athletes...and fewer injuries. Busy kids have to balance the needs of family, school, growing bodies and, for several, the demands of multiple sports. The basic requirements of bodies in these circumstances include wholesome food, proper hydration and sufficient rest. An interesting
By Michael Shpak, L.Ac. success and nustudy of Stantritious breakford’s National fasts that include Champion swim protein. Reducteam showed ing processed that when their and fast foods athletes consistand increasently got seven ing lean and to nine hours clean proteins, of sleep each fresh fruits and night, their best times improved by twenty percent. All vegetables go a long way in meeting the nutritional demands of your child. Ease athletes need sufficient rest, especially those who are recovering from injuries, off on sodas, especially when playing games on consecutive days. Sodas are as our bodies recover during sleep. sugar and phosphate heavy and cause In terms of food, we all succeed the body to lose energy and minerals. best with three to five good meals and Saving heavier carbohydrate meals snacks per day; many studies show a for just after workouts leads to the most strong correlation between academic
success. That means success in school, sports and general health. Since there is so much demand on the body’s resources for growth and muscle development, young athletes should be eating half their body weight in grams of protein per day! For example, someone person weighing 130 pounds would need 65 grams of protein per day. Hydration is a simpler standard to achieve by drinking a quality electrolyte replacement and approximately half one’s body weight in ounces of water per day. Michael Shpak is a licensed acupuncturist and herbalist with an office in Pleasant Hill. He can be reached at 925.926.0499.
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February 2012
QR Codes: Old Technology Finds New Application Have you seen the QR codes on page 8 and page 24? Want to see what these codes divulge? By scanning the codes with your smartphone, you can purchase tickets to the Mayor’s Breakfast or get a deal on an appetizer at Magoo’s. Find out how you can access these codes below. The QR (Quick Response) code is another type of symbol that has recently become commonplace in our everyday lives, but some people don’t yet know what they are or how they’re used. The QR code is typically a twodimensional symbol, shaped much like a postage stamp. It can be generated in different sizes and can be read by a camera-enabled mobile device with a program (app) that allows the device to interpret the data provided in the QR code. A company owned by the Toyota Corporation that helped workers track parts for vehicle manufacturing originally developed the QR code in 1994. Although almost twenty years old, the
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symbol has only recently been included in many of the advertisements we see throughout our everyday life. Nowadays, QR codes have various purposes and require the particular application to link or properly interpret it. Simply put, once the code is scanned, the scanning device will respond by opening up the correct application to appropriately handle the encoded data. Once scanned, the code will link you to
Community Foundation Youth Grant Awards
The proceeds from the 11th Annual Pleasant Hill Allied Waste Golf Classic held last October provided the funding for the Foundation’s Youth Grant Awards. The beneficiaries include: Pleasant Hill Library for a preschool activity area; Star Quest; Sequoia Middle School’s Music Boosters for instruments, music and equipment; College Park High School for a sound system for the choir room; Valhalla Elementary School for their visual arts program; Valley View Middle School for classroom libraries; Fair Oaks Elementary School for drums; and Pleasant Hill Recreation and Park District for an event tent and replacement of chairs for the pool. Betty Geishirt Cantrell, Youth Grant Awards Chair, stated, “The Pleasant Hill Community Founda-
tion is very thankful to all the people who have participated in over a decade of our Golf Classics. Their generosity has enabled local community organizations to create meaningful opportunities for the youth of Pleasant Hill. We are also very excited to have Allied Waste increase their support to that of Presenting Sponsor this year.” The Pleasant Hill Community Foundation will be accepting proposals for its Community Grant Awards in the spring of 2012. Applications will be available on our website, www.PHCommunityFoundation.org. The 12th Annual Pleasant Hill Golf Classic will be held on October 5, 2012. We hope that you can join us for a fun day that supports the youth of Pleasant Hill.
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a website, video, or other information. To get started, you need a QRcode app and a smartphone or tablet equipped with a camera. iOS users should check out RedLaser. Android fans can try either RedLaser or QR Droid, and BlackBerry users will like QR Code Scanner Pro. All of these apps are free to download, and each
one should handle any standard QR code just fine. When you launch your app of choice, you’ll see that your phone’s camera is activated with an on-screen framing guide. Line up the camera on your device with the QR code you want to scan, then hold the device steady until the app can read the code in front of it. When the app has recognized the QR code, it will beep and display the info the code contains, or launch your Web browser to take you to a designated URL. You can use most QR-code apps for reading bar codes too, which can be convenient for in-store price checks. Scanning a product’s bar code with RedLaser will bring up an item description as well as a list of prices from various merchants that also sell that item. So go give it try. Be hi-tech, and scan this code!
Sock Hop Comes to Strandwood Elementary
Troop 30054 which is a 4th grade Girl Scout Troop, hosted the 9th anual Sock Hop. There were 75 girls dressed in their favorite 50’s attire, from poodle skirts, to rolled up jeans and satin jackets. They danced to the Bunny Hop, echanged SWAPS (Special Whatchamacallits Affectionately Pinned Somewhere), ate popcorn and were served delicious ice cream sundaes. The event is not only for fun but also a service project for the Troop. They ask each girl attending to bring a NEW pair of socks to be donated to Shelter Inc. in Martinez. This year they collected over 150 pair.
Pictured is the 4th grade troop leading their guests in a dance. L to R: Tess Martinelli, Courtney Silva, Olivia Llamas, Tara Gallahger, Julia Bingham, Caroline Turner, Danielle Duffy and Payton Heaney
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February 2012
Violinist to Perform with Diablo Symphony Bay Area violinist Karen Shinozaki will perform on February 12 in Walnut Creek with the Diablo Symphony under the baton of guest conductor Kenneth Raskin, the associate conductor of the Sacramento Philharmonic. The concert will begin at 7:30 p.m. in the Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek, where tickets are on sale ($12 youths, $18 seniors, $20 regular). Tickets may also be purchased by phone (925) 943-7469 or online www. lesherartscenter.com. Shinozaki, a member of the New Century Chamber Orchestra since its founding in 1992, will play Mozart’s Violin Concerto No. 5 in A Major. She performs with the Santa Rosa and Marin symphonies and serves on the music faculties at UC Berkeley and the Marin
Music Conservatory. Raskin will lead the orchestra in Dvorak’s Symphony No.8 and “Rainbow Body” by Christopher Theofanidis. More than 100 orchestras have played the piece, one of the most performed new orchestral works of the last 10 years internationally. Raskin is the second of five guest conductors during the 2011-2012 season. One of the guest conductors will be selected in May to succeed Joyce Johnson Hamilton, who retired in early 2011 as conductor and music director. Raskin has been assistant conductor of the North Carolina Symphony and conductor of the San Francisco Concerto Orchestra, among others. The Diablo Symphony is the oldest group of professionally trained musicians in Contra Costa County.
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DVC Performs Striker
Caryl Churchill’s, The Skriker, a wondrous, dark, eerie, provocative and challenging piece of modern drama is our third production this season. The language is twisted, heightened and quick-paced. Churchill melds English folklore with a contemporary environment and manages to create a terrifying dramatic “fairy tale.” The central plot revolves around two teenage girls and the Skriker, a shape shifter and ancient evil spirit. DVC Drama urges its audiences be advised that this performance has adult content, including graphic and mature scenes/language and is not recommended for children under 16. Ed Trujillo, whose recent DVC directing credits include, Alice In Wonderland, Othello, The Clash and Celebrations of American Culture, will direct the Skriker on the PAC Main Stage.
Diablo Valley College Presents The Skriker Jan 27 – Feb 12, Directed by: Ed Trujillo Written by Caryl Churchill $20 General Admission, $15 Faculty/Staff/Seniors, $10 Students Box Office is open 1 hour prior to show times. Tickets may be purchased via the DVC Cashier’s Office or by calling (925) 687-4445 or visiting www.dvcdrama.net
Diablo Goes Blond
Conductor: Kenneth Raskin
Violinist, Karen Shinozaki
Broadway star, Bailey Hanks, will reprise the role of Elle Woods in this feel good musical comedy about a girl who does not take “no” for an answer. When her boyfriend dumps her for someone “serious”, Elle puts down the credit card, hits the books, and sets out to go where no Delta Nu has gone before: Harvard Law. Along the way, Elle proves that being true to yourself never goes out of style. Based on the hit movie of the same name starring Reese Witherspoon, Legally Blonde, the Musical is an all singing, all dancing, award-winning Broadway sensation. This feel good musical comedy premiered its pre-Broadway tryout in San Francisco and in April 2007 moved to the Palace Theatre. During its first year in New York, Legally Blonde, the Musical earned seven Tony Award nominations, 10 Drama Desk Award nominations and an Outer Critics Circle Award. The show also ranked in the top 10 for the most requested Ticketmaster “Arts & Theatre Events” for 2007. Show dates are Feb 10 - Mar 3. Legally Blonde, The Musical is a family friendly show appropriate for ages 10 and up. For ticket information contact the box office by calling 925-943-7469 or visit www.diablotheatre.org.
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Page 22
February 2012
To Water or Not To Water Typically, this time of year we all have our sprinkler timers turned off (or at least we should). But this year, there has been very little rain (at least at the time this article was written). So, the question is, do we need to water our lawns and landscapes? If so, how much? Well, that depends. Most shrubs and trees don’t need much water because they are not growing this time of year. When the nights are cold, lawns are mostly dormant and need little or no water. Lawns with warm season grasses, such as Bermuda, will turn brown and need no winter water at all. Typically, rainfall in February easily satisfies the low water needs of our lawns and landscapes, so they do not require any irrigation water. However, if we do not receive enough rain in late January or early Febru-
By Chris Dundon accidently allow it to run if the weather bushes water 1 to 2 times per month in ary, lawns and landscapes will need a February then increase to 2 to 3 times turns wet. The following is a watersmall amount of supplemental irrigaper month in March. ing guide, assuming we have very low tion water. In March, the night time Following these guidelines will or no rainfall. If you have a lawn you temperature will begin to warm and, keep your plants healthy through the consequently, a little more watering will should water it 2 to 3 times per month rest of the winter. Lets hope there is in February, then increase it to 4 times be required than in February. Genersome rain soon! per month in March. For shrubs and ally, we have enough rain in March to With years of remodels behind us we look forward to helping you make your house the home you've always wanted. meet the water needs of our plants, but if March is dry, consider supplementing with irrigation water. Most importantly, if you do need to irrigate, do it with the manual setting on your timer. This way, you don’t
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February 2012
Healthy Habits Equal Healthy Hearts February is Healthy Heart Month and is the essential month of love. It makes good sense; we hope the people we love will hang around for a long time and keep their hearts healthy. Kids definitely fall into this category and training them to eat healthy from an early age is every parent’s goal. You are all aware of the steep competition; enter fast food, junk food and all evil edibles that are relentlessly marketed to our young folk 24/7/365. Unfortunately, the pushers of such products have a wee bit more dough than we do to get their point across. And Healthy Heart Month has no meaning to them, apparently, as all those places are open in February. I found a campaign called Retire Ronald, www.retireronald.org. Awesome in its hilarious simplicity, the movement is essentially directed at food marketing to children. Using that famous clown was the first time anyone tried focusing on the kid instead
Sautéed Kale
Directions:
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in sauté pan over medium heat and toss kale in pan. Sauté 3 to 4 minutes. Add vegetable stock and finish cooking until kale is limp but still colorful. Season with sea salt to taste. Drizzle rice vinegar over to taste if desired,
Directions:
Preheat oven to 300º. Tear one bunch of kale (any variety) into chip-sized pieces, separating from the ribs as you go. Wash kale and dry in a salad spinner so oil will adhere for even roasting. Toss with 1 teaspoon or so of olive oil and season with sea salt. Place kale chips on parchment covered cookie sheets and bake for 12 to 17 minutes, tossing chips halfway through to redistribute on baking tray. You can use any seasonings you like on the chips before baking as well as salt. Nutritional yeast is a great alternative to salt and adds wonderful flavor as well as nutrients.
Fresh Kale Salad w/ Pomegranate Arils 1 large bunch kale, any kind, sliced and washed 1 tablespoon olive oil Juice and zest of 1 to 2 lemons ½ cup arils (seeds)
Directions:
THE GARDEN
By Lesley Stiles of the parent holding the wallet. It every time we sample them, kale chips of letting it molder in a pack back? If worked and is an industry worth bilare seriously easy to prepare and great we persevere by presenting healthy lions of dollars annually. Build loyalty for snacking at that Super Bowl party choices, we will see big changes...and and brand recognition among children, fairly quickly too. If your child is a local or getting taste buds revved up for a and you have a lifelong flow of cash as a student, you can usually find these reci- healthy heart family meal that we can direct result of said marketing. Genius, treasure with our loved ones. pes from the online school newsletter diabolical, and immoral are words that As I write this in the middle of Janor via my website. come to mind; definitely not the stuff uary, we have had no rain but hiking Lately, one of our most successful of healthy hearts for our babes. has been amazing in local hills. Hopefood samples directed to students was In our school garden programs, we fully, it will be raining by press time, kale chips. Kale is an amazing winter have presented food tastings along with green that comes in several shapes and but don’t let that stop you from getting gardening for the past few years. Progout and getting that heart pumped up sizes. Any kind of kale works great for ress is apparent with what students will and ready for more kale chips! chips. We showed students nutritional taste, eat and come back for. A lot of Lesley Stiles is a graduate of information on both kale and potato what they try is grown in their school the California Culinary Academy, suschips, side by side. Kale chips won out gardens, so they are invested in how it tainable caterer and school garden edin every way. Wildly popular at farmtastes. Examples of items sampled inucator. Contact Lesley at lesleystiles@ ers’ markets, the idea is catching on. clude: beets sautéed with greens and comcast.net, www.lesleystiles.blogspot. Crispy, salty and satisfying, they are garlic; coleslaw with cabbage, carrots, com and visit her new website: www. incredibly easy to make and taste like celery, herbs in a light herb vinaigrette; potato chips or a nice little cracker. Nu- lesleystilesfoods.com. sautéed kale with brown rice pasta; and trient packed health food that kids like fresh apple crisp. More and more, we are finding that, given the opportunity to try healthy foods, students now trust Ingredients: us enough to do so. Imagine if we gave Separate and wash 1-2 bunches kale 3 cloves garlic - chopped out the recipe for kale and Satsuma 1 tablespoon olive or coconut oil Slice kale into ½ inch pieces mandarin salad and after school your ¼ cup vegetable stock child actually handed it to you instead
Kale Chips
Ingredients:
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1 Fuyu persimmon, sliced 1 bunch green onions, sliced Sea salt and pepper to taste or Braggs Amino Acids to taste
Toss kale, arils, persimmon and green onions in a large salad bowl. Drizzle on lemon juice, zest and olive oil and toss well. Season with Braggs or salt. Let sit a few minutes to gently “cook” the kale for a few minutes or up to an hour before serving.
2012 Farmers Market Calendar Great news! The Farmers’ Market Lovers Calendar for 2012 is hot off the presses and ready to be scooped up for all those veggie lovers. Preview at lesleystilesfoods.com or at the Diablo Valley Farmers Market, Orchard Nursery, Mrs. Dalloway’s Books, Orinda Books or the Gardener! More info: Lesley at 925. 934.3128 or lesleystiles@comcast.net.
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February 2012
In the Mix “You’d think that people would have had enough of silly love songs. But I look around me and I see it isn’t so. Some people wanna fill the world with silly love songs. And what’s wrong with that?” That’s right, what is wrong with that? With Valentine’s Day fast approaching and love songs about to fill the air, who knew that Paul McCartney’s silly little song would ring so true? I know many reading this right now are about to check out, but hear me out. You know there is a song that touches your heart. Every song is a love song to some degree: the good, the bad, the hopeful, the cynical and everything in between. Even the creepy song by The Police, “Every Breath You Take,” can be interpreted as a love song for the controlling and voyeur in all of us. Love songs can be universal. “All You Need Is Love” was the Beatle’s anthem that “love is everything.” Even Bob Dylan wrote many love songs, including “Make You Feel My Love,” which has been covered by several artists, including
By Paul Cotruvo Garth Brooks and Adele. • I Can’t Make You Love Me- Bonnie Raitt • In Your Eyes- Peter Gabriel And, what if you were the So come on, embrace your inner • Waiting In Vain –Bob Marley inspiration for some of the all-time Barry White and admit it, we all love • If I Ain’t Got You – Alicia Keys classic songs of the last fifty years? Patti “love songs”! So, what is your favorite love • Love’s In Need Of Love Today- Stevie Boyd, former wife to George Harrison song? Write and let me know, and maybe Wonder and Eric Clapton, inspired “I Need I will publish the results next month. • A Song For You – Leon Russell You,” “Something” (later disputed by Remember, “Love is all you need.” • Need You Now- Lady Antebellum George after the divorce), “Layla” and Quote of the Month: Falling in love is so • I’d Have You Anytime – George “Wonderful Tonight.” hard on the knees. – Aerosmith Harrison Every generation has a love song, from the late Etta James “At Last,” to Van February 2: Chris Cain Band, Armandos, Martinez, 8:00pm Morrison’s “Crazy Love,” to Rihanna’s February 3: Zoo Station, Dan’s Bar, Walnut Creek, 10:00pm “We Found Love.” Even rap fell in love. February 4: Sin Silver, Rocco’s, Walnut Creek, 8:30pm LL Cool J told the world “I Need Love.” February 16: Lumberyard, Round Up, Lafayette, 9:00pm February 17: Acoustic S&M, Back Forty, Pleasant Hill, 6:00pm Think of the ghetto hit “You’re All I February 25: Tamsen Donner Band, Dallimonti’s, Pleasant Hill, 9:30pm Need” by Method Man & Mary J Blige and the great Snoop Dog’s rap “In Love Breakfast Lunch Dinner Sports Bar With A Thug.” (WORD). Love songs can take you back to the first time you fell in love. I can’t believe I am admitting this, but my first love song was Bread’s “Make It With You.” As soon as I hear this song, it takes me back to the seventh grade and my first love! Here are my top ten love songs, all of which will be playing on my iPod on Valentine’s day: • Have I Told You Lately That I Love You – Van Morrison • And I Love Her- The Beatles
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February 2012
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Page 26
February 2012
Calendar events 1/27–2/12 – The Striker. Presented by the DVC Department of Drama. $20 General Admission; $15 Faculty/Staff/Seniors; $10 Students. Box office open 1 hour prior to show times. Fridays and Saturdays at 8pm. Sundays at 2:30pm. Tickets may be purchased at the DVC cashier’s office or by calling (925) 687-4445 or visiting www. dvcdrama.net. 2/4 – Real Men Sing. A men’s vocal workshop at the DVC Music building from 9am4:30pm. Workshop is for boys in Contra Costa and the surrounding areas, grades 7 through college. Guest clinicians will be the a cappella jazz quartet, “Just 4 Kicks,” followed by a concert prepared by the singers. A final show at 3:15pm by Just 4 Kicks will be open to the public at the College Park Multi-use Room. Visit www.realmensing.org for more information. 2/5 & 2/19 - How to Raise Your Chickens. Raising young chicks, hen maintenance and sustainable coop construction. Workshops are free and will be held from 1:30-3:30pm. Sign up by email: jhkiefer@ comcast.net. 2/6–July - John Muir the Inventor: Exhibit will showcase Muir’s innovative creativity through sketches of Muir’s inventions and an interactive feature that allows visitors to analyze Muir’s devices for themselves. John Muir National Historic Site, 4202 Alhambra Ave, Martinez. For hours of operation call (925) 228-8860. 2/7 - Pleasant Hill Garden Study Club. Speaker: Kathy Echols on “Propigation.” 7pm. Free. Camellia Room at Heather Farms, 1540 Marchbanks Dr., WC. Visit www.phgsc.com or call 925-944-4898 for more info. 2/7 – Martinez State of the City Breakfast. Speakers include Mayor Rob Schroder and Paul Gabbard, General Manager of Shell Refinery. Reservations required by 2/1 by calling (925) 228-2345. Tickets are $25 pp and includes a full gourmet breakfast. 7:30am-9:30am. Creekside Church Auditorium, 444 Fig Tree Lane, Martinez. 2/9 – Pleasant Hill Mayor’s Breakfast. Pleasant Hill Chamber of Commerce is hosting the Mayor’s breakfast at Back 40
Texas BBQ, 100 Coggins Drive, Pleasant Hill. 7:30am-9:00am. To RSVP and purchase tickets, call the PH Chamber at 687-0700 or go to www.pleasanthillchamber.com. 2/9 - The Contra Costa County Genealogical Society. Meeting at 7:00pm. LDS Church, 1360 Alberta Way, Concord. Janice Sellers will speak on “Online Newspapers and Genealogical Research.” 2/11 - I Downtown Martinez Wine Stroll. Spend a romantic afternoon tasting wine in downtown Martinez. Tickets include a wine glass, wine tasting, wine glass charm, and map of participating businesses. Visit www.mainstreetmartinez.org for more information. 2/28 - Introduction to Metabolic Balance. A food-based way to lose weight and get healthy. Are you at risk for Metabolic Syndrome? Stop by for a free Metabolic Syndrome Screening from 10am – noon at the Vitamin Shoppe, 1601 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Walnut Creek. 3/1-3/22 – Learn To Bowl. Learn something fun and make new friends in the process. For ages 6-18 years old. Students need to wear socks. Please pre-register by calling 372-3510. Thursdays, 4:30pm5:30pm. $18/Martinez residents; $20/non resident. Fee includes use of bowling ball and shoes. Paddock Bowl, 5915 Pacheco Blvd., Pacheco. 3/4- 3/20 - PH-Martinez Soccer Association Registration. Pleasant Hill Middle School, 1 Santa Barbara Rd., Pleasant Hill on the following dates: 3/4: 9am-3pm; 3/8: 6pm-9pm; 3/20: 6pm-9pm. $85 per player, 3rd player $60. Anyone born between 8/1/93 and 7/21/08 can play. Visit www. eAYSO.com for more information. 3/7 – Fairytale Princess Party for 2-6 year olds. Wear your princess dress and be a princess for a day with your Mom or Dad. Includes Fairytale Princess story time, a snack, and creating a very special princess crown. 3:30pm-4:30 pm at Winslow Center, Assembly Room, 2590 Pleasant Hill Rd., Pleasant Hill. $9/child, $6/adult. Register by February 29 by calling (925) 682-0896 or via www.pleasanthillrec.com.
3/10 - Youth Baseball Parade. Main Street in Martinez at 10:00am, with Harriet Burt as announcer and featuring the athletes of Martinez Baseball and Softball Association and Martinez Baseball Club
ANNOUNCEMENTS The Martinez Grange No.853: Join a grass roots organization that began in 1867 and is open to all members of the family. Junior Grange for ages 5 to 13 1/2 years old, and regular members are 14 and up. The Grange has 10,000 members and 207 chapters across California. Meetings are on the 3rd Wednesday of each month at 600 Palm Ave., Martinez. For more information: 9352875. Email: martinezgrange@yahoo.com. St. Pat goes to Hollywood! On March 16 at 6:00pm the Pleasant Hill Rotary joins the Big C Athletic Club in a St. Patrick’s Day celebration and fundraiser, “St. Pat goes to Hollywood.” Tickets are $45.00 per person or $425 for a table of 10. Includes champagne, appetizers, food, entertainment, dancing, and Irish merriment. All proceeds to benefit many charities! Dress as your favorite Hollywood character. Best Costume wins a prize. Space is severely limited, so contact Jessica Braverman to buy tickets now (Jessica@BravermanSolutions.com). There are corporate sponsorship opportunities still available. The Big C Athletic Club is located at 1381 Galaxy Way, Concord.
At the library Pleasant Hill: Closed for Presidents Day 2/20. Tuesdays - Pick up your box of organic fruits and vegetables every week by signing up with Doorstep Farmers, a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) service that supports the local agricultural community and sustainable healthy living. Locally grown produce delivered every Tuesday between 5-7pm. All subscribers will receive a 5% discount for choosing Pleasant Hill Library as their pick-up location. Mother Goose Storytime. Ages 0-3. Wednesdays - 11:15-11:45am; Fridays 11:15-11:45pm & 1:15-1:45pm. Thursdays - Preschool Storytime, ages 3-5.
11:15-11:45am. Saturdays – Saturday Story Time, Babies, Preschoolers, Kids. 11:15-11:45am. 2/8 – The PHUN Team, Pleasant Hill United Nerds Team, formerly known as the Teen Advisory Group (TAG). Meet other teens and the young adult librarian to share and plan what you want to see happen at the library. Every 2nd Wednesday. For ages 1318. Room A; 3:30pm-5pm. 2/14 – Book Club. Reading Carlos Ruiz Zafoin’s, Shadow of the Wind. Room A; 6:30pm-7:30pm. Contact: 646-6434. 2/28 – Magic Show For All Ages. Ray Andrews will magically make hundreds of smiles appear in the library; 6:30pm7:30pm. Contact 927-3235. Thursdays 2/2 & 2/16 – Wii for Teens – Play some board games too! Room A; 3pm4:30pm. Martinez: Closed for Presidents Day 2/20. Mondays - Pajama Time. Come for stories, crafts, and special events. Our first night will focus on stories that require musical accompaniment. Different crafts each Monday. All ages welcome; 6:30pm-7:30pm. Tuesdays Mother Goose Storytime, ages 0-3. 10:30-11am. 2/13 - Valentines Galore. Enjoy a Valentine’s story, then the fun turns funny when Little Mouse’s ginormous valentine enters the room. Bubbles, a giant heart, and a Valentine special delivery join us for this light-hearted evening for the whole family; 6:30pm. 2/14 – Leaping Origami. Celebrate Leap Year with origami creations that move. Learn more about the art of this craft and learn how to dream in paper. All material provided for free; 3:30pm-4:30pm. All ages welcome. 2/14 – Book Discussion Group - Join us as we discuss John Steinbeck’s, In Dubious Battle. Adults. 6:45pm. Contact Catherine Oliver at (925) 646-9900. 2/21 – It’s Raining Newts. One of Black Diamond Mine’s wonderful rangers gives the low-down on the California Newt. Find out why the Newt crosses the road, and other amphibian mysteries; 3:30pm-4:30pm.
February 2012
www.ourcommunityfocus.com
Dance Your Way to Fitness By Tonya Marie Amos, Aspire Pilates smooth movements of our torso and Remember hips improve our flexibility. And, as our college days a bonus, since California is now a “no when we’d dance smoking in public places” state, nightthe night away? clubs are a much healthier environment Who can ever forin which to master old and new moves get taking a party while getting a great workout. or nightclub by But, ladies, before you dash off to storm with the legendary Running Man or Electric Slide the club for a night of fun and exercise, be sure to put on comfortable shoes. moves? Way back then, dancing was soGood shoes are a must to keep your cial, entertaining and so much fun that joints in healthy alignment, prevent slipwe never realized how hard we were ping, and spare the balls of your feet working. from the pounding on cement. Those Dancing is glorious but uncomfortable high heels a fantastic workcan not only cause injury, but also result out! Because in the “I’m so cute, I’ll just stand here of the nonand wiggle slightly” dance move, stop movement, which means you won’t receive the grooving over a cardio (and fun) benefits of dancperiod of five or ing the night away. Armed with flat six songs transshoes, comfortable clothing and a lates into about good friend, you’ll 25 minutes of great be ready to cardiovascular exerpump up cise. Strength trainthe volume, get your ing comes with our groove on and have some quads, hamstrings, fun without hurting. Now’s the time to glutes and core get out there and show everyone your muscles workfancy footwork as you strengthen your ing overtime to muscles, improve your flexibility and allow us to be balance, and get a solid cardio workout fabulous on our while having the time of your life. fancy feet. Shift Tonya Marie Amos danced profesing from one sionally in New York for 15 years before leg to the other, opening her studio, Aspire Pilates forward and backCenter in Concord. For more informaward and side to side, tion, contact please call (925) 680-4400 dramatically improves our or go to www.AspirePilatesCenter.com. balance. The undulations and
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Page 27
Fight Colds and Flu with Accupuncture By Richard Weissman, Accupuncture Wellness Center er cells. A study at the Department of “My daughter gets one cold after another.” “I just can’t get rid of this cold Physiology at the University of Madrid in Spain indicated that acupuncture I’ve had for six months.” “I got pneutreated immune function in women monia twice last winter.” Sneezing, with anxiety. The results showed that scratchy throat, runny nose, fatigue— everyone knows these are the first signs the most favorable effects of acupuncture on the immune functions appear of a cold. Although usually mild with seventy-two hours after treatment and symptoms lasting one to two weeks, it brought immune parameters to values is a leading cause of doctor visits and missed days of work and school. In the closer to those of healthy controls. A course of a year, people in the U.S. suf- study in Japan showed that acupuncture could modulate allergy and imfer one billion colds. Flu has a fever of mune response by improving cyto101 to 106 degrees, with 200,000 peokines. Other studies show acupuncture ple hospitalized and 36,000 dying per improves T-lymphocyte function. year. It is also very contagious. Nothing is more important to your It can be challenging to have a weak immune system. We are bombarded health than a well-functioning imwith chemicals and stress that our spemune system. Such ailments and discies has not adapted to and it is weareases as the common cold, infections, ing out our immune systems. While asthma, food allergies, rheumatoid armany conditions aren’t curable, trathritis, and even cancer are all related ditional Chinese medicine has effecto immune system function. Traditional Chinese medicine has been deal- tively treated them for thousands of years. Acupuncture improves digestive ing with immune system disorders for health, reduces stress and provides enthousands of years. Acupuncture as well as herbal and nutritional therapies ergy because it significantly contributes to physical, mental, emotional and strengthen the body’s natural defense spiritual healing. mechanisms. One study showed acu Acupuncture is an affordable puncture improved white blood cell therapy and many health insurance counts and mobility by 168% within plans, auto insurance and workers three hours after treatment. Treatment compensation cover the cost. also relieved symptoms of asthma, al Find out more about the Aculergies, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, puncture Wellness Center at www.acucolds and infections. A five-week study at the University wellnessonline.com, 925-671-2100 or visit the center at 2261 Morello Ave. at of Houston showed acupuncture inTaylor Blvd. in Pleasant Hill. creased the activity of the natural kill-
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February 2012
The Polar Plunge
Some daring folks including Vice Mayor, Michael Harris, started the New year off with an invigorating plunge in the unheated water of Pleasant Hill Aquatic Park!
Pleasant Hill Rec and Park Updates Pleasant Hill Teen and Senior Centers Making Progress Construction workers were able to make great progress, thanks to unusually dry weather for most of January. At the Senior Center site, PG&E crews installed a new power pole on Gregory Lane, just hours before the rain came. Work on drainage systems continued along with paving work at both the Senior and Teen Centers. The district accomplished another milestone as they completed paving the parking lot outside the Teen Center and district office in mid January. Framing work continued as well, with interior spaces becoming more defined with every new wall. Meanwhile, the capital campaign to fund furniture and fixtures is forging ahead. According to Fundraising Coordinator Sandy Noack, brick sales are gaining momentum and other donation opportunities are still available – including the opportunity to name one of the rooms in the new buildings after a loved one. All of the details on the capital campaign are available on the district’s
The Teen Center is coming together!
website, www.pleasanthillrec.com; or call the office at 682-0896. For more construction updates on Pleasant Hill Recreation & Park District’s Bond Projects, visit www.pleasanthillrec. com/Bond.html or attend a meeting of the Board of Directors, scheduled for the second and fourth Wednesdays in January at 147 Gregory Lane, at 6 pm. Back to Basics at Rodgers Ranch Did you know that Pleasant Hill Recreation & Park District offers classes at a local historical heritage center that dates back to 1861? If you would like to get a glimpse of
Limit one coupon per customer. Not valid with other offers.Restrictions apply. Valid and redeemable only when presented at a participating location. The UPS Store centers are independently owned and operated. © 2010 Mail Boxes Etc., Inc. Exp. 2/29/2012
Pleasant Hill life in a simpler time, sign up now for either of these two classes at the newly-restored Rodgers Ranch, located on Cortsen Road, near Gregory Lane and Pleasant Hill Road. Take your choice! Learn about growing and using herbs in your own Pleasant Hill garden or how to create your own useful and decorative rugs, baskets, and mats. Denise Koroslev, who is a member of the Northern California unit of the
Herb Society of America and President of the Friends of Rodgers Ranch, will teach “Herbs to Grow and Use.” She will cover how to start an herb garden, including which herbs grow best locally, where to situate your garden, how to grow herbs, and how to use the herbs you grow. The class is offered on Tuesday, February 21, and again on Saturday, February 25. During the afternoon of February 25, Arlene Magarian will teach “Braided Rug and Basket Making.” She will give an introduction to these traditional crafts and share some interesting “tricks.” Each class is available to District residents for just $29 plus a small charge for materials and supplies. Non-residents are welcome too for just $35 plus the materials fee. To sign up, call Pleasant Hill Recreation & Park District at 6820896, or sign up online at www.pleasanthillrec.com.
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February 2012
St. Andrews Celebrates By Marlene Maksel
Sixty years ago, the Reverend James Crothers had a vision for Pleasant Hill: a church on Mary Drive. At that time, the property was in the northern most part of the unincorporated city. On January 8, the congregation of St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church celebrated that vision with a luncheon and program. Harry Coyle, a former member, traveled from Tucson, Arizona to emcee the program of music, reminiscences, prayers, and visions of the future. In addition, Linda Newacheck provided tri-folds and scrapbooks covering all 60 years of St. Andrew’s history, along with world events of the times. The luncheon program was held in the new Celebration Center with about 150 attending, many who were youths in the early years of the church. The event was concluded with a poem written especially for the celebration by Jean Matin, followed with a benediction by the present Senior Pastor, Dr. Shel White.
CERT’s New Website The Pleasant Hill Community Emergency Response Team has launched its official website www.pleasanthillcert. org. It went online just before Christmas after almost a year of hard work by the site creators Carol Reade, Walter Sanchez, Diana White and Chris Elmore, and months of tweaking by the Steering Committee. Pleasant Hill CERT members can check out the website for information on meetings, drills and community educational activities, while the public can find answers to frequently asked questions about CERT and how to prepare for disasters. The public can also request a ninety minute presentation on preparing a disaster plan for home or business and obtain the “Map Your Neighborhood,” a system developed by the State of Wash-
ington Emergency Services that instructs small neighborhood groups on how to assist each other. There is also a link to sign up for Pleasant Hill CERT training (next class starts on February 6). The website contains links to many national and state organizations that offer information on preparing for earthquakes and other natural disasters, and what action to take during and after them. It also includes links to CERT organizations in different parts of the country and demonstrates what other communities are doing. The website is packed with helpful hints on what kinds of food, equipment and first aid supplies to have on hand. Please check out this website and even bookmark it for news and timely information!
Page 29
Doctors Receive Patients’ Choice Awards By Matthew Sirott, MD in her exams and the questions she The Patients’ Choice Award is given to physicians who make a difference asks, but most importantly, she is a in the lives of their patients. This honor very caring human being. She made me feel as if we were partners in getting is bestowed upon physicians who have received near perfect scores as voted by me well. I highly recommend her!” Another patient wrote: “Dr. Cattheir patients. Of the nation’s 830,000 alya really listened to me - she created active physicians, only five percent a plan to go after my cancer. I am now were accorded this honor in 2011. cancer free - one year later. I cannot All seven physicians at Diablo thank her enough.” Valley Oncology recently received this To view the complete Patients’ prestigious award: Matthew Sirott, Choice “MD report card” profile of Robert Robles, Jewel Johl, Tiffany each physician, go to: www.patientSvahn, Gigi Chen, Esther Catalya, and schoice.org Sachin Kamath. These medical on Diablo Valley Oncology is located cologists, hematologists and radiation at the California Cancer and Research oncologist were rated by their patients Institute in Pleasant Hill. The canon various components of care such cer center is the largest freestanding, as ease of appointment, promptness, non-hospital based facility in Contra courteous staff, diagnosis accuracy, Costa County. The center brings toamount of time spent with their pagether medical oncology, hematology, tients bedside manner and follow-up radiation, chemotherapy, diagnostic care. They received the highest scores, imaging, clinical trials, and supportive a perfect four star rating by their patients. This oncology practice has more care services – all in one convenient doctors recognized for this award than location. Satellite offices in Rossmoor, San Ramon, and Brentwood. any other in the area. Matthew Sirott, MD is a medical Dr. Svahn, the group’s breast canoncologist and the president of Diablo cer specialist, has received the award Valley Oncology. His practice is home four years in a row. One comment to the largest single site for cancer from a patient’s review states: “Dr. treatment in Contra Costa County. Svahn represents everything that is good about the medical profession. She DiabloValleyOncology.md is brilliant, very well trained, thorough
Seated from L to R: Dr. Matthew Sirott, Dr. Tiffany Svahn and Dr. Robert Robles. Standing L to R: Dr. Gigi Chen, Dr. Sachin Kamath, Dr. Jewel Johl and Dr. Esther Catalya. PAID ADVERTORIAL
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February 2012
19th Annual Teen of the Year Nominees Janette Danielson (winner) Janette Danielson is a Pleasant Hill native and senior at College Park High. She has received extensive community service recognition at the local and national level with Diablo Valley Chapter of Soroptimists at their 41st “Dream the Impossible” youth recognition awards for her work at Tony LaRussa’s Animal Rescue Foundation. Her other community services have been as a camp counselor at Diablo Day camp and STAGE Troupe shows for the Pleasant Hill Preschool and Marcus School. She has also earned the highest National Girl Scout Recognition, the Gold Award, for her project entitled, “Spreading the ARF message”, where she brought a dog training/safety presentation to Diablo Day camp, produced a Camp ARF promotional video and brought a group of underserved elementary students to a Learning Center tour and program at ARF. Janette was a screenwriter for a short film, “Hide and Seek,” about a teen girl dealing with a mentally disabled mother and plans to study screenwriting in college. Nominated by Denise Lowry. Mary Englund Mary is a long time resident of Pleasant Hill and is currently in her year at College Park High. Mary started working with children with special needs in the eighth grade, when she began volunteering at Milestones in Walnut Creek. She participated in “Friends Club,” a program that provides children with Autism Spectrum Disorder an opportunity to develop social skills, communication skills and friendships. Mary has volunteered at Xenophon’s Therapeutic Riding Center
Pictured are: Jimmy Torres, Meridean “Deanie” Shim, Janette Danielson and Mary Englund Photo by SusanWoodPhotography.com
in Orinda ever since. She currently volunteers with Xenophon’s Hypnotherapy Group which includes children with some of the most profound disabilities. Mary finds it extremely rewarding to see these children beaming with pride at their accomplishments. She is looking forward to graduating from high school this year and starting college in the fall. Nominated by Susan Nachand. Meridean “Deanie” Shim Meridean “Deanie” is a senior at College Park High and has lived in Pleasant Hill over sixteen years with her family. Deanie has contributed many community service hours with great enthusiasm to the Pleasant Hill Library, Interact (Rotary International for Youth), Special OlympicsContra Costa County, California Scholarship Federation, and Liberty for North Korea. Deanie is a Karate student, an avid
wanna
GET IN FOCUS? Have a story about your team or an athlete? Got a nice story everyone needs to know? We want to hear from our Teen Community! Deadline for submission is 2nd Friday of each month. Pictures need to be a min. of 1MB in size.
Send to info@ourcommunityfocus.com
piano and clarinet player in the College Park High School Wind Ensemble, and is in the process of applying for entrance into Middlebury College, University of Chicago, and several University of California schools. The staff at the Pleasant Hill Library is proud to sponsor Deanie’s
nomination for Teen of the Year based on her stellar community service and leadership. Deanie is the recipient of the US President’s Service Award 2011 for her service at the library. Deanie has earned a 4.0 grade point average throughout her years at College Park High School. Nominated by Heather Cummins, Pleasant Hill Library. Jimmy Torres Jimmy Torres, a senior at College Park High, has been involved with the Pleasant Hill Teen Council since 2008 and is currently serving as the Chair. Jimmy started volunteering for Pleasant Hill Recreation and Park District in 2007 with the preschool program. Through Teen Council, he has been involved with a multitude of Pleasant Hill events. Jimmy is an avid baseball player and puts his skills to good use by volunteering for Bay Area Baseball Camp for 6-12 year olds. Jimmy maintains a 3.5 GPA and is active in Sports Leadership and Student Body Leadership at College Park. Nominated by Katrina Hunn, PH Recreation & Park District
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February 2012
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Winter Cleaning Special
2/29/12
Acupuncture Wellness Architectural Wood Products Armando’s Aspire Pilates Center Artesa Dental Best Western Plus John Muir Inn Big Air Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc Coldstone Creamery Dallimonti’s Flaskerud- Re-Max Hagin’s Auto
Thank You Advertisers!
Navlet’s Hire My Husband Hitchcock Realty Diablo Futbol Club Home Detailers Housekeeping Jack’s Jennifer L. Martin D.D.S. Kobe Japan Le Jardin Les Schwab Tires Country Waffles
Matthew C. Rinn, State Farm Insurance Plato’s Closet Moulding Company Payless Painting Parkway Smiles Dentistry Samuels Construction QuickChange Decorating Senior Helpers Waters Moving & Storage Youth Homes Thrift Shop Main Street Marintez
Magoo’s Grill Rod Harris, Generation Mortgage UPS – Virginia Hills Smokey D’s Yeung Tutorial Group Boydstun Construction Inc. Venardi Law Firm Putnam, Berggren & Tonti Certified Public Accountancy California Pacific Federal Credit Union
www.ourcommunityfocus.com
February 2012
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Downtown Martinez
Wine Stroll Sat. February 11, 2012 • 2:00-5:30pm
Spend a relaxing afternoon strolling the tree-lined streets in downtown Martinez while wine tasting at local businesses.
Free soCCer skills CliniCs with Diablo FC professional coaches
Tickets: $15 per person in advance
for U12-U14 players
Feb. 2 & 6
These free skills clinics are to help players prepare for tryouts. Clinics are from 6:30-8:00 pm at Willow Pass Park, Concord and Ygnacio Valley High School, Concord
Tryouts
Purchase tickets in advance at these locations Cash or Check only:
Pre-register at www.diablofc.org No charge to tryout.
Purchase tickets with a credit card at www.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.
Free CliniCs
2012 Season
$20 at the event Includes a tasing glass, wine glass charm, Wine Tasting Passport an I (heart) downtown Martinez lapel pin, and a map. Leah’s Closet, 831 Main St. Main Street Martinez, 649 Main St., Suite 106
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Feb. 9, 12, 16
Diablo FC is the area’s premier youth soccer club with competitive teams for boys and girls from Under 8 through Under 23. Diablo FC takes pride in the development of each player and the excellent performances of our players and teams in all age groups. If you are interested in trying out for a 2012 Diablo FC competitive team, please complete our online tryout form today. Players are encouraged to attend all tryouts to maximize their exposure to the coaches as they evaluate players for team selections.
For more information call (925) 228-3577 or visit www.mainstreetmartinez.org
Must be 21 years and older. No Refunds
BAY AREA CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL APRIL 21, 2012 - 12pm to 4pm
doors open at 11:30am
Historic Cannery District on the Martinez Waterfront
30+ Top Microbreweries! Rockin' Live Music! Garageland Rodeo 11:30-1:30 PUSH 2:00-4:00
Diablo FC offers players: • New Teams forming • Unparalleled coaching staff • Innovative training program • Goalkeeper & striker training • True club atmosphere • College preparation Missed U9-U11 Tryouts? Visit www.diablofc.org and register for the appropriate age group in the Tryout tab and you'll be contacted about player evaluation appointment.
Fabulous Food Available for Purchase!
U12-U13 Girls 6-7:30pm U14 Girls 7:00-8:30pm Willow Pass Park, Concord
U12-U13 Boys 6-7:30pm U14 Boys 7:00-8:30pm Ygnacio Valley High School, Concord
Sunday, Feb. 12
U12 Girls 9-10:30am U13 Girls 10:30am-12noon U14 Girls 12noon - 1:30pm Clayton Valley High School, Concord U12 Boys 9-10:30am U13 Boys 10:30am-12noon U14 Boys 12noon - 1:30pm Ygnacio Valley High School, Concord
U12-U14 Girls 6:30-8:00pm Willow Pass Park, Concord U12-U14 Boys 6:30-8:00pm Ygnacio Valley High School, Concord
Monday, Feb. 6 Calen Carrr Club Alumnus Houston Dynamo Starter MLS Cup 2011
U12-U14 Girls 6:30-8:00pm Willow Pass Park, Concord U12-U14 Boys 6:30-8:00pm Ygnacio Valley High School, Concord
Event is 21 years and over only. Beer tasting 12-4
www.BayAreaCraftBeerFestival.com
Main Street Martinez • 649 Main St., Suite 106, Martinez, CA 94553 • 925.228-3577
Chris “Wondo” Wondolowski Club Alumnus 2010 & 2011 MLS Top Goal Scorer 2011 MLS All-Star 2011 & 2012 USA Men’s National Team
Thursday, Feb. 2
BUY TICKETS NOW - MAY SELL OUT! Includes Logo tasting glass & unlimited tasting! Designated Drivers $5 (at the door $10)
Thursdays, Feb. 9 and Feb. 16
U12 - U14 FREE Clinics
FREE Shuttle from North Concord BART
Beer Tasting $35 (at the door $45)
U12 - U14 Tryouts
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