February 2016 Community Focus

Pleasant Hill • Concord • Martinez • Lafayette • Walnut Creek

COMMUNITY

FOCUS

FEBRUARY 2016 Reaching Over 50,000 Homes & Businesses

ourcommunityfocus.com

IN THIS ISSUE: • MEET YOUR NEIGHBOR • CAMP AND SCHOOL FAIR • NEWTS, WHO KNEW?

Julie Says

It’s Raining Cats, Dogs, and Troll Women

BY JULIE ROSS

Anyone else growing weary of gray skies, drizzle, downpours and wet dogs?

(Yes, I know we need the rain. I live here.)

However, I am also getting tired of the same old “need the rain” comments. The other day during an impressive downpour, a friend used a phrase I haven’t come across in quite a while: “It’s raining cats and dogs.”

I was wondering how the saying originated and was unable to find a satisfactory answer. Explanations varied. One theory from the 1500s surmised that domesticated animals slipped off and/or fell through thatched roofs during stormy weather.

That hardly seems plausible. I’m not sure what dogs, in particular, would be doing up there. Another theory is that violent rainfalls caused olden-day-style storm drains to back up, spilling out the carcasses

of various animals. That is horrible and, besides, floodwater washing dogs and cats down the street is hardly the same as dogs and cats falling from the sky. The answer I like best suggests the notion comes from Norse mythology, where cats were believed to bring the rain, and dogs were associated with wind. Much better.

In the course of looking into the etymology of this idiom, I learned that in other parts of the country it is sometimes “raining pitchforks and hoe handles,” or in another variation on the farm implement theme, “raining pitchforks and bullfrogs.”

Because pitchforks, hoe handles and bullfrogs are quite different types of precipitation than dogs and cats, I was curious as to what type of precipitation fell from the sky in other countries.

In South Africa and Namibia, it rains “old women with clubs.” Ouch. During heavy rainfall in Ireland, one might remark, “It’s throwing cobbler’s knives.” In Denmark, “Det regner skomagerdenge,” or “It’s

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COVER:

Briones after some rain. Finally.

PHOTO BY: Trish Heaney

INSIDE

6

Super Bowls Activities

17

Dangers of Joint Tenancy

7 And the Oscar Goes to...

Reach Your New Year’s Resolutions

20

29

In the Mix with Mark Stanley

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6680 Alhambra Ave. Box #132 Martinez, CA 94553

925-335-6397

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february 2016 • ourcommunityfocus.com

raining shoemakers’ apprentices.” (What?)

In the Faroe Islands, they say it’s raining pilot whales. That sounds like some storm! In Greece, there are chair legs falling from the clouds. In Brazil, it’s frogs’ beards.

(Frogs have beards?)

My favorite among them all, though, is the Norwegian description of a heavy rainfall: “Det regner trollkjerringer.” It’s raining troll women. How delightfully disturbing.

I will close with a new response for you to use the next time someone in line at the grocery store tells you “we need the rain.” Borrow a saying from Serbia and inform them “The rain falls and kills the mice.”

That should make them think twice about talking to you again.

Stay dry. It’s a wet one out there, but hey; I’ve heard we need the rain.

You can reach Julie at julieakross@ comcast.net

Aloe Day Tours

Sweets with Your Sweetie

The Ruth Bancroft Garden’s Aloe Day Tours is an all-day event that focuses specifically on the garden’s dramatic, unparalleled aloe collection, including hybrids not found anywhere else in the world. These winter bloomers put on a stunning show with colorful, bold flower stalks.

Sweets with Your Sweetie

You and your sweetie will take a guided tour of the garden, led by curator Brian Kemble, world-renowned aloe expert, and then enjoy tea, sipping chocolate, or a mimosa and a plate of sweet treats in our covered shade house. Be sure to take home the dish garden on your table as a remembrance of your visit.

• Tours with Brian start at 10am and 12pm and last 60 - 90 minutes, followed by your sweets seating.

• Space is limited for this special event, so pre-registration is required. To make a reservation, sign-up online; members can call the office. Event will be held rain or shine.

• $50/couple for members; $65/couple for non-members.

The garden will also be open for regular admission visits with self-guided aloe tours and docent led tours. A special selection of aloes will be available in our retail nursery, as well as dish gardens, aloe books, and other garden-inspired gifts for your Valentine. Open 10am-3pm, with docent-led tours at 11am and 1pm.

Regular Admission Rates: $10/adults; $8/students and seniors 65+; free for RBG members, children under 12, and members of participating AHS reciprocal gardens. The Ruth Bancroft Garden, 1552 Bancroft Road, Walnut Creek. All parking is at office entrance.

Please visit The Ruth Bancroft Garden or call (925) 944-9352.

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3

Art Exhibit

Artu4ia, an open painting studio in Martinez, will be featuring an exhibit of works by well-known folk artist Howard Finster as well as a documentary about him on Saturday, February 20, 6-9pm. The exhibit features work from the Pattie Family Collection of American Folk Art, and collector Steven Pattie, who is the executive producer of the documentary, will be on hand to answer questions about the movie and the exhibit. This exhibit is part of a monthly Art Beat “art walk� event that is powered by Artcelerator, a new collective of artists and art activists that promote art and events in Martinez.

Howard Finster (December 2, 1916 – October 22, 2001) was an American artist and Baptist minister from Georgia. He claimed to be inspired by God to spread the gospel through the design of his swampy land into “Paradise Gardens,â€? a folk art sculpture garden with over 46,000 pieces of art. His creations include outsider art, naĂŻve art, and visionary art.

Finster first came to widespread notice in the 1980s with his album cover designs for R.E.M. and Talking Heads.

The Rev. Howard Finster is widely acknowledged as one of the most influential selftaught artists of the 20th century. There was never a more prolific, trained or untrained, American artist than Finster. Few artists are as wholly original or as singularly expressive of a personal vision. Potent and unrestrained, this self-described “stranger from another world,� “man of visions,�“God’s last red light on planet earth,� and “second Noah,� is the creator of a verbal, visual, sculptural, and environmental art that is an unparalleled tour de force. His audacious art, fueled by visions of Jesus, Elvis, angels, and other worlds, challenges the senses, the art world’s guardians, and the aesthetic status quo of the dominant culture. Artu4ia, 725 Ward St., Suite C, Martinez, 925-451-9372, www.artu4ia.com.

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february 2016 • ourcommunityfocus.com

The Pleasant Hill Rec & Park District proudly announces the return of Come Together, an all-star benefit show for the Pleasant Hill Teen Programs held February 26 at 7:30pm at the Pleasant Hill Community Center. The show’s concept is to bring together local, well-known musical acts with up and coming younger musicians. Come Together 6 features many diverse genres, such as blues, country, singer-songwriter, and rock. Most acts are acoustic, but The Bell Brothers will be plugged in and getting your hick on! Another great aspect of the show is that you just never know who might show up for a song or two. Come Together has become one of the highlights of the year, and definitely worth every penny. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased through Eventbrite, www.eventbrite.com/e/come-together-6-teen-center-benefitconcert-tickets. Some tickets available at the door. This show has been extremely popular so get your tickets early. This year’s line-up features: The Bell Brothers, Frankie G., The Lost Weekend (Stephanie Rickher & Paul Cotruvo), Mark Stanley, Alexa Heine, The New Frantics, Claire Thompson, and Sienna Coward.

WELCOME TO THE NEIGHBORHOOD

Kait’s Art. Vintage. Home.

1942 Linda Dr., Pleasant Hill 925.383.5470

DIY Workshops and Unique Décor Finds in Pleasant Hill

This is a lovely new shop located in the heart of Pleasant Hill behind Casper’s Hot Dogs on Contra Costa Blvd. It has a wonderful mix of vintage and new items, perfect for giving your space a new look! There are things as small as a pair of locally made earrings, handmade soaps from all natural ingredients, wonderfully scented soy candles made in Oakland, unique vintage furniture, and great home décor items. We work hard to make sure everything in the store is made by owner Kait Frisk or other talented artisans, locally and elsewhere in the USA. There are so many great gift-giving items that are unique and fun for everyone. The store is always changing and evolving, so be sure to check back often for fun new finds and gifts for yourself or loved ones!

Kait’s also offers DIY workshops, paint parties for kids and adults, and open studio time. Owner Kait Frisk teaches all DIY workshops with Dixie Belle Mineral Chalk Paint, exclusive to Kait’s Art. Vintage. Home. Kait also teaches the paint parties, which can be held at the shop or your private location, where we bring the party to you!

February’s Class Schedule: Paint, Pinot, and Party. Thursday, February 11, 6pm. Grab your Valentine for this fun couples night out. Enjoy painting,

sipping, and creating fun memories that are sure to last!

Ugly Chair Party. Friday February 19, 6pm. Everyone has that one piece of furniture they don’t want to get rid of but know needs a facelift. This is the perfect class for you! Bring in that ugly chair,

Thank You Community Focus Readers

Thurs-Sun 11-5pm

small end table, or drawer from a larger dresser, and learn fun techniques with Dixie Belle Chalk Paint. As long as you can carry the item through the door by yourself, you are good to go for this party!

To stay updated on all upcoming events, classes, and new arrivals, or if

Winner for “Computing Services” Three Years Running

you’re interested in booking a private party, head over to our website www. createwithkait.com. Be sure to “Like” us on Facebook and “Follow” us on “Kait’s Art. Vintage. Home.” Bring your copy of Community Focus in to get 10% off your purchase!

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5

Estate Planning

House Tax Breaks

BY DANIEL DuREE

Do you know in what form you hold title to your home?

Most people do not know, but there are important legal consequences to taking title in different ways. Holding title as joint tenants can have major negative tax consequences for a married couple.

Co-ownership of Real Estate as a Married Couple

The landscape for joint ownership of real estate is markedly more complicated than that of the sole owner. Married co-owners of real estate most commonly hold title as joint tenants with the right of survivorship, as husband and wife as community property, or as trustees of a jointly settled revocable living trust.

Dangers of Joint tenancy

Joint tenancy is formally known as “joint tenancy with the right of survivorship.” The major feature of joint tenancy is that when one owner passes away, their interest automatically passes to the surviving joint tenant(s). Because of this characteristic, property held as joint tenants avoids the scourge of the California probate process at the passing of the first

The best tax break available to homeowners is selling their home. Most homeowners are familiar with capital gains, but it’s important enough to review.

If you have lived in your home for two of the previous five years, you are eligible to deduct capital gains up to $250,000 for a single person and $500,000 for a married couple (in most cases). To figure this out, it’s important to first establish a base value of your home. This is the amount you paid for the home plus capital improvements. If you sold a home before 1997 and rolled over any profit into your primary residence, you must subtract that amount.

Compare this number to the new sale price of your home minus any commissions and expenses to get the profit. Unless that profit is more than the $250,000 or $500,000, you won’t owe Uncle Sam anything on the sale of your home, but if your profit was $550,000 you’ll only owe taxes on $50,000.

Married couples must have lived in the primary residence for two years together even if not married the entire time. The one exception is for a new marriage in which one spouse sold a home within the last two years. In that case, they cannot qualify jointly, but the other spouse can still qualify for $250,000 in gains.

Let’s say you own a rental property and you lived in it off and on during the last five years. As long you lived in it accumulatively for a total of two years out of the five, you still qualify for the tax break even if you don’t live in it at the time of the sale.

Some exceptions to the two-year rule include military personnel who are required to move a lot and anyone needing to move for special conditions, such as health or a new job.

For homeowners over 55 who would like to downsize it gets tricky.

Many of them purchased their primary residence decades ago and have enjoyed fairly low property taxes, but the

The Dangers of Joint Tenancy

spouse (although not the second). Holding title as husband and wife as community property also avoids probate at the passing of the first spouse. However, holding title as joint tenants can create severe negative tax consequences for a married couple. As a married couple in California, you never want to hold title as joint tenants.

Revocable Living Trust

The third common way of holding title to real estate, specifically as spouse co-owners, is through a jointly settled revocable living trust. The property is titled in the name of the spouses as trustees of their revocable living trust. This is the clearly preferred method from an estate planning perspective. Even if one of the other methods is initially used, eventually, the surviving spouse will need a trust to best pass the property to their heirs outside of probate and in the most tax efficient way possible. If you have questions about the negative consequences of holding title as joint-tenants or the benefits of a living trust, please call our office and we will be happy to speak with you.

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

THE LAW OFFICE OF

DANIEL L. DUREE Estate Planning Attorney

925.210.1400 1535 North Main Street, Suite 240 • Walnut Creek

Please call today for a complimentary consultation at my office or in your home.

www.DuReeLaw.com

TRUSTS • WILLS • PROBATE SUBMIT A STORY Have something to share?

Deadline for submissions is the second Friday of each month. info@ourcommunityfocus.com

Every Penny Counts

Ken Marson and Cristina Candelori, J. Rockcliff Realtors

purchase of a new home would require reappraisal that could double or triple their taxes, making it unfeasible to move. This is where Proposition 60 helps the over-55 community. Prop 60 allows them to transfer their current property’s assessed value into a new replacement property, yet still pay the same property taxes. The new property must be of equal or lesser value and purchased or newly constructed within two years of the sale of the primary residence and within the same county. Proposition 90 will allow a move to another county at their discretion. Prop 60 and 90 can only be used once in a lifetime, with the exception of disabled persons.

Every penny counts, and it’s important to be informed. We advise talking to a realtor and meeting with a certified tax professional to find out all your options.

We are your Pleasant Hill neighbors and want you to love where you live.

Marson and Candelori Ken Marson and Cristina Candelori Love Where You Live • (925) 366-8269 marsoncandelori@gmail.com BRE#01922446 • BRE#01258364

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february 2016 • ourcommunityfocus.com

Superbowl 50 Activities Free Concerts, Fireworks, Autographs and More!

Super Bowl 50 Week features activities throughout the region, with the main hub of activity in the City of San Francisco. NFL Experience is hosted in Moscone Center North and South in downtown San Francisco. Super Bowl City, a free-to-the-public fan village, housed by the Ferry Building at the foot of Market Street, features activities for all ages, and showcases all the Bay Area has to offer, from arts and culture to regional food and drink. The NFL Experience and Super Bowl City opened January 30 and remains open until 3pm on February 7.

The NFL Experience is an interactive theme park that offers participatory games, youth football clinics, merchandise from the NFL Shop, and free autograph sessions from NFL players. NFL Experience also debuts new attractions in San Francisco, including personalized digital photos; upgraded 40-yard dash and vertical jump against NFL players on

LED screens, a virtual reality experience; enhanced Super Bowl rings display; and a new NFL Draft set.

Within the Super Bowl City’s fan village is the Fan Energy Zone, presented

by SAP, which celebrates the Bay Area’s leadership in technology and innovation and showcases the latest in interactive gaming, social media, and data visualizations. The Fan Energy Zone includes three different but interlinked areas: the Fan Dome, the Fan Wall and the Fan Stage. The Fan Stage serves as presentation space for community partners, celebrity appearances, and photo opportunities, as well as the main space for the DJs and MCs on the lineup. Activities are held daily from 11am-9pm.

The City Stage (Sue Bierman Park, near Market and Embarcadero) has free concerts daily from 12-1:30pm, with headlining concerts starting February 3 with singer-songwriter Matt Nathanson

at 7:30pm, followed by country group The Band Perry on February 4 at 7:30pm, and pop rock band One Republic on February 5 at 8:30pm, followed by a fireworks show. February 6 is the con-

cert series finale, featuring Alicia Keys at 7pm.

For the most up to date schedule and performance times, visit www.sfbaysuperbowl.com/super-bowl-city.

Enjoy a New Full Life with Independent Senior Living Carlton Senior Living’s lively, active independent living community in Concord features spacious balcony apartments for those age 55 or better. Residents enjoy a secure community with fitness classes, games, special events, new friends and plenty of spirited conversation. Two meals are served each day, including a continental breakfast and dinner, as well as a delicious Sunday brunch. Housekeeping services are provided twice each month and convenient transportation is available seven days a week. There’s even a coffee bar, concierge service and an onsite T A LL O business center.

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Y DA

Carlton Senior Living’s age 55+ independent living community in Concord has beautifully landscaped grounds in a contemporary urban setting. A full schedule of live entertainment nts and fabulous events – music, from ju st movies, dances, wine tastings $1,795! and more – keeps toes tapping and the atmosphere merry.

Carlton Senior Living provides a fun, friendly and full-service life from just $1,795 per month! Please call today.

Please call today to schedule a visit, enjoy a complimentary Sunday brunch and reserve your new home.

Tom MacDonald Founder

Carlton Senior Living’s Sherry Helm with resident Lynn Cooke and Marley.

CarltonSeniorLiving.com

1700 Broadway St. · Concord (925) 686-1700 Lic. No. 5005347

ourcommunityfocus.com • february 2016

7

A Family Dentistry Muir Family Relocates their Office

The Board and Staff of Shell Western States Federal Credit Union are thrilled to announce a new look for our institution. Your credit union has been expanding services, convenience and technology to meet the changing needs of the community. After months of research, planning and collaboration, we have created a new logo that will represent us and the caliber of products and services that we provide.

In the next few months you’ll start seeing the new logo on our website, electronic services, branch signage and communications.

Muir Family Dentistry is pleased to announce the relocation of its dental office to 1124 Arnold Drive, Suite #201, in Martinez. The office is located upstairs in a new, two-story yellow building that shares design elements of the historical John Muir House. The downstairs has approximately 3,000 square feet available for one to three retail sites.

The owner of Muir Family Dentistry is Dr. Stephen Francis, DDS, who was born and raised in Martinez, is an Alhambra High School graduate, and has been a dentist in his hometown for over 31 years.

His goal is to provide the best quality dentistry to all of his patients.

We understand choosing a dentist is a very personal decision. Dr. Francis, his associate, Dr. Truong, and their caring staff work hard to give you the highest level of expertise in a comfortable atmosphere.

Our office proudly offers state of the art technology, including digital x-rays and CEREC (same day) crowns. Muir Family Dentistry is a comprehensive, dedicated,

professional dental office that provides general, family, and cosmetic dentistry in a caring, low-stress environment.

Dr. Francis and his staff are experienced in all phases of cosmetic dentistry, including veneers, no-prep veneers, all-porcelain crowns, and bonded, toothcolored fillings for both front and back teeth. We replace missing teeth with aesthetically appealing dental implants, including beautifully detailed work on crowns, bridges, and dentures. Please visit muirfamilydentistry.com to view some of our actual before and after photos.

Dr. Francis is one of the few dentists in the Bay Area who is proficient in sleep dentistry (the making of mouth positioners for sleep apnea and/or snoring). We would love to serve your whole family, and we welcome children of all ages.

Please contact our office at (925) 3724747. If you are looking for a dentist, we are happy to meet your needs!

Our logo and look may change, but our products, services, great rates, and personalized service will remain the same.

We are proud of our history and our heritage with the Martinez and Pacheco communities. We’re excited about the future as we continue to enhance service and convenience for you.

Shell Western States Federal Credit Union New Logo. New Look.

Same Amazing Service You Can Count On!

Call us today at 925.228.4545 or visit us online at www.SWSFCU.org 1700 Pacheco Blvd. | Martinez, CA 94553 Federally insured by NCUA. Equal Housing Lender.

The new Muir Family Dentistry building at 1124 Arnold Drive, Martinez.

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february 2016 • ourcommunityfocus.com

Newts, Who Knew? IN FOCUS Briones’ Charismatic Amphibian

Briones Regional Park’s 6,255 acres are home to plentiful East Bay wildlife, including birds, snakes, and newts. Some areas are still used as grazing land by local herds, part of a cattle ranching history that’s more than 100 years old. The park’s ridge tops offer stunning views of Mount Diablo and the San Francisco Bay.

One of the most unique species found in Briones Regional Park is the California Newt (Taricha torosa). With a brown dorsal and a bright orange belly, newts look almost exactly the same as another tiny amphibian found in the park, the rough-skinned newt (Taricha granulosa). Their coloring isn’t just for decoration; California newts are actually poisonous.

Every year, beginning in December or January, newts emerge with the onset of fall rains. Leaving their summer shelter of burrows or rotten logs, the traveling salamanders (newts) crawl to streams and ponds in order to breed. Navigating by sight and smell, some journey a mile or more to mate.

It may be surprising that newts spend this part of their lives in stock ponds – ponds that were created for and are used by cattle -- but in a recent study, biologists found stock ponds to be an ideal habitat for these amphibians. Cattle keep dense brush from forming on the edges of the ponds, which can be difficult for newts to get through. Cattle also stir up the pond waters, making them murkier, and this can actually protect young salamanders and newts from being preyed upon by giant water bugs (also known as toe-biters).

The muddy water provides useful cover for the larval amphibians.

If you’re interested in learning more about Briones Regional Park and its wildlife, visit www.ebparks.org/parks/briones. Take a guided hike with a naturalist to discover local flora and fauna, maybe even local California Newts!

Wence’s Restaurant

Wence’s Restaurant, located in Pleasant Hill, is a family-owned restaurant serving the entire East Bay. At Wence’s Restaurant we strive to bring you delicious, innovative, and inviting California cuisine. We believe even the smallest detail matters to ensure every customer is pleased and eager to return.

Emphasizing organic, handmade and all-natural products, Wence’s offers a variety of freshly prepared, artfully presented entrees for everyone. Indulge in our Mediterranean Black Mussels, Wild Chilean Sea Bass, Dungeness Crab Louie, Lobster Truffle Mac and Cheese, Specialty Burgers, Filet Mignon and more! Join us on the weekends and savor a Mimosa with Dungeness Crab Benedict.

At Wence’s you’ll find consistency in the fresh and fine ingredients used to make our flavorful dishes. With over 25 years of experience in preparing and presenting food, Chef Gerardo Wence has fulfilled his dream through Wence’s. Chef Wence participates in all food preparation and works side-by-side with wife Sandra Wence, who administers the front of the house to ensure a balance of quality food with quality service. At Wence’s you’ll find the entire family hard at work to provide you with the utmost dining experience for you and your honored guests!

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1922 Oak Park Blvd, Pleasant Hill • 925-566-8971

Wencesrestaurant.com

ourcommunityfocus.com • february 2016

9

City of Pleasant Hill

Mayor’s Message

Every New Year I start by reflecting on the previous year, and my resolutions stem from there: places I want to visit, things I want to accomplish, and changes I want to make. I am not going to bore you with my personal resolutions but instead focus more on reflections on our city and opportunities for the upcoming year.

This past year as a city councilmember, I attended many wonderful events that reinforced my belief in what a great community we live in. It all starts with the people and their willingness to participate, to volunteer, to lead, and to donate their time, money, and effort into making Pleasant Hill an outstanding community.

We have many great neighborhoods that epitomize the saying “It takes a village.” We have many incredible people participating in numerous city commissions in planning, architectural review, aging, civic action and education, to name a few. We have dedicated volunteer organizations, such as the PTAs, Chamber of Commerce, Community Foundation, Lions, Rotarians, Friends of the Library, and the Foundation for Pleasant Hill Education. The number of unselfish, giving people is astonishing. This list is far from complete, and I apologize in advance to those not included here.

Our success as a community is further evidenced in the participation of people in so many events and activities. My job at Light Up the Night last year was handing out 2,000 cookies.

We were out of cookies one and a half hours into the event! At one cookie per person, that shows the fantastic attendance on Crescent Drive in Downtown Pleasant Hill. This type of participation is repeated over and over again at the Concerts at the Park, Community Service Day, Holiday Festival, Art, Jazz & 10

Wine, and the Fourth of July festivities.

I attend a monthly luncheon of the Elected Women of Contra Costa County, and I’m asked repeatedly how we are able to build such a strong community.

My response is that the people of Pleasant Hill make it happen because they care about where they live, and they want to contribute to maintaining the character and well being of the entire community.

In partnership with our colleagues at the Recreation & Park District, our job at City Hall is to support and enhance that sense of community that we hold so dear. This will be one of my top priorities during my tenure as mayor of Pleasant Hill.

Last year, the city council completed the first, long-term financial plan. This will ensure that we have the financial reserves necessary to weather any storm and pay down our unfunded pension liability, while allowing for additional funds to be used for street and road repairs, storm drain improvements, and continuing Monday hours at the library. The plan also gives us the framework for our budgets and a tool to assess other opportunities, such as building a new library.

It is important that we continue to focus on the needs of the community.

Our city staff provides excellent service and will continue to do so. But in order to stay connected with the people of this city, we need to get your input.

One of my goals this year is to get wider participation by our citizens. We recently launched a great new mobile app called “Ask PHill,” and we will be working to update our website to make it more user-friendly. I want to encourage people to use these tools, along with the Outlook, the city’s social media pages, and notifications for staying informed about activities and meetings.

february 2016 • ourcommunityfocus.com

Sue Noack, Mayor of Pleasant Hill

The city holds many open meetings and study sessions where public input is encouraged and appreciated. We want to hear from all of you to help us make important and necessary decisions that benefit the entire community.

One of my first duties as mayor is to present the “State of the City” address at the Mayor’s Breakfast. This will be held on February 19 at 7:30am at the

Pleasant Hill Senior Center. Tickets for the event are available through the Chamber of Commerce by emailing info@pleasanthillchamber.com. I hope you can join me there, but if you are unable to do so, please do not hesitate to contact me with your thoughts, suggestions and comments. I can be reached, along with my fellow councilmembers, at www.pleasanthillca.org/council.

Public Meetings Architectural Review Commission Feb. 4, 18 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane, Small Community Room, 5pm. Contact: 671-5209 Civic Action Commission Feb. 3 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane, Small Community Room, 6:30pm. Contact: 671-5229 City Council Feb. 1, 22 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane, Council Chambers, 7:30pm. Contact: 671-5229 Library Task Force Feb. 8 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane, Large Community Room, 11am. Contact: 671-5229 Planning Commission Feb. 9, 23 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane, Council Chambers, 7:30pm. Contact: 671-5209 Education Commission Feb. 24 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane, Community Room, 7pm For Confirmation Visit: www.ci.pleasant-hill.ca.us

Chamber Calendar Feb. 5 – Ambassador Meeting 8:30-9:30am.

Feb. 15 – Chamber Office Closed for President’s Day. Feb. 18 – Ribbon Cutting & Grand Opening 5pm, WISEGIRL Ristorante Italiano & Cocktails; 1932 Oak Park Blvd., PH. Feb. 19 – Mayor’s “State of the City” Breakfast 7:30-9am, Chateau Room, Pleasant Hill Senior Center, 233 Gregory Lane, PH. Feb. 20 – Ribbon Cutting & Grand Opening 6:30am, Orchard Supply Hardware (OSH); 155 Crescent Plaza, PH. Feb. 24 – Business Runway 8-10am, JFK University, 100 Ellinwood Way, PH. Feb. 24 – 680 Professional Women’s Business Network 6-8pm, call Chamber to RSVP and for location.

Feb. 29 – Government Affairs Committee 5:30-7pm, Back Forty Texas BBQ, 100 Coggins Drive, PH. Feb. 29 – Green Business Committee 4-5pm, Pleasant Hill Chamber office, 91 Gregory Lane, Suite 11, PH. OFF THE GRID Food Trucks – Wednesdays, 5-9pm, Trelany Road, PH.

City of Pleasant Hill

Pleasant Hill City News Former Oak Park School Site Update

In front of a packed chamber during public comment at the January 25 city council meeting, Pleasant Hill residents took an opportunity to address the council and voice their opinions in favor of a partnership between the City of Pleasant Hill and the PHRPD to acquire the 10-acre county parcel adjacent to Pleasant Hill Middle School and the Pleasant Hill Library. Rec and Park and county representatives shared appraisals on the property last December, and they continue to meet to discuss the site.

Citizens want to see the land used for open space, ball fields, a possible new library, and detention basins, built for flood protection. Pleasant Hill resident David De Boer said, “I want to express my strong support to keep that space as open space for the community. I think having that space as fields for soccer or potentially developed for the library is important to the community going forward. If that space gets developed, it’s truly lost to the public as a resource for the future.”

Former mayor Kim Brandt said, “Pleasant Hill stands again at the crossroads of doing something spectacular, something historic, and something future generations will look back on. We are here to ask that you join the Recreation and Park district and their effort to buy the Oak Park Elementary school site from Contra Costa County. We need you to work this out for us, for our kids, and for our seniors because it’s the right thing to do.”

Hand carried petitions for “Statement of Support to the Rec and Park District” and “Advisory Petition to the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors” have been circulating throughout the Pleasant Hill community over the past several months, and 547 signatures on the “Statement of Support” have been submitted to the Recreation and Park District. A total of 947 signatures have been collected so far.

Additionally, the Change.org, Keep Pleasant Hill Pleasant! petition has reached beyond 2,000 signatures. Anyone in Contra Costa County can still sign the Change.org petition to show they care about this issue.

Mayor Noack responded to the comments by saying, “On January 4, the Rec and Park did come to city council to ask us for their support, and I have met with two members of their board twice for about four hours to discuss this item.

It has not been forgotten; I have been talking to them, and we will have further conversations so that I can inform the rest of the city council about plans and projects.” On January 26, the Board of Directors of the Recreation and Park District met in closed session.

Council Meeting with MDUSD

The Pleasant Hill City Council met with MDUSD School Board and Superintendent Dr. Nellie Meyer last December. The meeting included updates on student enrollment and transfers, technology upgrades, counseling services, and future student programs.

According to Felicia Stuckey-Smith, director of Student Services, College Park has the highest enrollment of any other high school in the district, with 2,023 students. Of those, 177 are transfer students (students who do not attend their “assigned” high school based on where they live), with about 80% as siblings or the children of employees at the high school.

The large number of students at College Park has been a concern for many parents who envision ever increasing numbers. During public comment, Col-

City News Continued lege Park parent Kelly St. Germain suggested implementing and adhering to address verification and processes at the high school: “Even though there are 177 transfers into College Park at this time, the high school, in and of itself, through Pleasant Hill and through enrollment in our elementary schools, is impacted, so College Park cannot accept any other students from outside the district (area).

There is no address verification that I’m aware of going on. I’ve never been asked to submit any evidence of where I live. I believe we need to have some kind of verification process in place. We need to consider the fact that we might need another high school or more capacity if we are going to talk about building new homes in Pleasant Hill.”

Stuckey-Smith responded by saying, “We have four attendance liaisons that go out and do address verifications for our district. They work 24/7. Whenever a registrar at a school is registering a student and is suspicious of the fact that their address does not necessarily match, we send an attendance person out to verify. If verification cannot be met after a certain period of time, they will be asked to go to the school that matches their address.” She went on to explain that the district sometimes conducts a school-wide address verification and disclosed that an address verification was done at College Park seven or eight years ago.

With respect to technology in the schools, Superintendent Dr. Nellie Meyer said, “In May, our board voted to restructure our (Measure C) Bond, so we split the bond, and it saved tax payers seven million dollars with the restructuring.

The main component was that we were taking the bond money to pursue hard wiring, the infrastructure, and using it for the purpose of something that will last for many years. The consumable products, the computers, etc., were shifted then into other budgets.” The district stopped funding technological devices that do not have a long shelf life with the bond and will instead use non-bond funding.

The idea is that taxpayers will not be paying interest on a computer that is no longer in service or functioning. The district added eight network tech positions primarily for tech support (that was previously funded through foundations and parent support groups at some schools). The elementary schools have less tech support time than the middle schools and high school. “It is not where we would like it to be. Ideally, we would like a full-time person at each site. We are continuing to look at bringing back future positions,” she said.

After over 20 years without school counselors and counseling services, forty school counselors have been brought back to the school district, and eleven of those are in Pleasant Hill schools with the plan to add 13 more by 2018. The school counselors provide academic advisement, college and career planning, and social and emotional counseling to all students.

There are other high school programs for students still in the works. School Board members Cheryl Hansen and Debra Mason have formed a subcommittee along with members of the Community College Board to work with Diablo Valley College in implementing the Middle College Program, where high school students can enroll at DVC and receive college credits. The program was due to start last month, with about 30 students from each of the district high schools, but the program has been postponed. The district is also looking at starting a Duel Enrollment program, which would have some of the teachers at the high schools certified to be junior college instructors and teach a college course on the high school campus and receive college credit. “We’ve had to push a little harder than we thought we would with DVC, and the Community College Board has really come to our aid,” said Hanson. ourcommunityfocus.com • february 2016

11

City of Martinez PHOTO BY STAHLBERG

Mayor’s Message

For the last 13 years, the President’s State of the Nation address has signaled it’s time for me to start preparing my annual State of the City address. I have been making mental and written notes of the highlights, challenges, and accomplishments in Martinez in 2015. Overall, it was a very successful year, but it was also full of difficult times and controversy.

A highlight of 2015 was the hiring of a new city manager after over a year and a half of interim city managers. Rob Braulik, former city manager of Ross, took the helm in April and immediately started working with the city council on their goals and priorities. Rob faced many challenges dealing with difficult situations that have developed over the past few decades. Unfortunately, Rob decided to pursue opportunities in the private sector and resigned his position of city manager, effective the end of 2015. We are currently in the process of accepting applications and plan to schedule interviews in mid-to late February.

Another major accomplishment for Martinez was the recruitement and hiring of our new chief of police, Manjit Sappal. This was an almost 2-year process that caused a political firestorm, with threats of recall from some members of the public and angry disagreements among council members.

After decades of hiring from within the existing police force, the majority of city coun-

cil decided it was incumbent to engage a professional search firm, recruit candidates, and institute a formal review proces with a professional review panel. The city council interviewed the top two candidates as recommended by that panel and, as a result, we hired a captain from Richmond, Manjit Sappal. Chief Sappal has been on the job since July and, based on emails and comments I have received from business owners and the public, the process worked and city council has selected the right person for the right time.

Much progress has been made in the earthquake retrofit of downtown buildings.

The deadline of 8/15/2015 has come and gone, with many buildings completed or in process of retrofit. One has been demolished and another is in the process of demolition. A handful are awaiting final plans and four are in violation and about to be cited and fined as outlined in the ordinance (only recently was it determined that one recently vacated bank building was unreinforced masonery). The city is serious about protecting human life but also understands that sometimes there are extenuating circumstances which make if diffucult for property owners to meet the required timelines. We will work with each property owner on a case by case basis, but we will not turn our back on those who are not making a good faith effort to make their buildings safe.

Thank you for voting us your local favorite, 2 years in a row!

Rob Schroder, Mayor of Martinez

In 2015, over $2.1 million of street and road repair projects were approved. A few of those projects got started before the long awaited rains arrived, and others will commence in the spring of 2016. Included on that list is the repaving of Morello and Center Avenues at Highway 4.

The city is in excellent financial shape and ended this last fiscal year with a surplus of over $2.2 million. Most of the surplus was the result of one time revenue, fees, overdue reimbursement payments from State of California, and salary savings from unfilled positions. We have a healthy unrestricted reserve balance (rainy day fund) of $5.3 million after earmarking $1.4 million of the excess surplus to infrastructure, catastrophy, economic uncertainty, and pension liability funds. As governor Brown recently said, the next recession is just around the corner, and

we need to be prepared for it.

According to the recently released National Citizens Survey, Martinez residents feel safe, love the natural environment, like the quality of life, and would recommend Martinez as a place to live. Safety, economic development, fixing streets and dealing with the homeless were all high priorities.

This tool will help guide the strategic plan for the future and deliver city resources where the citizens want to see them used.

I will deliver my State of the City address on February 9 at 8am at Creekside Church. It is sponsored by the Martinez Chamber of Commerce. Tickets are $25 and include breakfast. Chief Sappal wil also be speaking about public safety issues. If you cannot attend, rest assured I will highlight my priorities for the coming year in an upcoming issue.

Public Meetings

City Council Meeting Feb. 3, 17 City Hall, 525 Henrietta Street, 7-11pm. Contact: 372-3500 Design Review Meeting Feb. 10, 24 City Hall, 525 Henrietta Street, 4-5pm. Contact: 372-3500 Planning Commission Meeting Feb. 9, 23 City Hall, 525 Henrietta Street, 7-11pm. Contact: 372-3500 Zoning Administrator Meeting Feb. 3,17 City Hall, 525 Henrietta Street, 4-5pm. Contact: 372-3500 City Offices Closed: Feb. 12 and 15 For Confirmation Visit: www.cityofmartinez.org

Chamber Calendar If interested in becoming an ambassador, contact us at (925) 228-2345 or email info@ martinezchamber.com.

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february 2016 • ourcommunityfocus.com

Feb 9 - State of the City Breakfast, 8-9:30am, Creekside Church Auditorium, 444 Fig Tree Lane, Martinez (Morello Ave to Midhill Rd). Enjoy a full gourmet breakfast buffet, $25. RSVP to the Martinez Chamber required by Feb 4.

Feb. 11 - Chamber Mixer 5:30-7:30pm, The Cobra Experience, 777 Arnold Drive, Ste. 200, Martinez. Great networking, food, fun and raffle prizes. Bring a raffle prize and have your business announced.

Feb. 15 - Office Closed - Presidents’ Day. Feb. 25 - Citizen of the Year for 2015 Nomination Deadline: last day to accept letters of nomination for Citizen of the Year candidates. For guidelines visit www.martinezchamber.com or call the Chamber office.

City of Martinez

Martinez City News Farias runs for Seat on Board of Supervisors

Anamarie Avila Farias, currently serving as vice-mayor on the Martinez City Council, recently pulled candidate papers at the Registrar of Voters and has officially indicated her intent to run for the District Five seat on the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors. Supervisor Federal D. Glover, serving District 5 residents on the Board of Supervisors since 2000, currently holds the district seat. Avila Farias was elected to the Martinez City Council in 2012.

City Organics Recycling Program

Organic materials deposited in landfills contribute significantly to the city’s inventory of greenhouse gas emissions. In accordance with state laws and the goals of the city’s Climate Action Plan (adopted June 2009), the city is implementing a residential and commercial Organics Recycling Program to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The Organics Recycling Program will not only help increase the diversion of recyclable materials from the landfill, but will also prevent yard debris from being used as landfill cover, as is currently the case for Martinez yard debris collection.

Beginning April 1, commercial customers will be able to dispose of “organic” materials, such as food scraps, in 64 gallon rolling carts, or yard debris (if applicable) in existing or new green carts. Organics will be collected weekly. Although only large commercial customers who generate 8‐cubic yards of waste or more each week are required to begin the Organics Recycling Program on April 1, all commercial customers would benefit from opting in at that time. Republic Services is offering free kitchen organics pails to residents. Residents interested in reserving a free pail can put in a request by calling Republic Services at 925‐685‐4711.

State of the City Breakfast

The annual State of the City Breakfast is scheduled for February 9, 8-9:30am at Creekside Church Auditorium, 777 Fig Lane. Manjit Sappal, Martinez Chief of Police will present information on the department’s budget and activities throughout the year, report on crime statistics, and address the homeless situation. Mayor Rob Schroder will give the State of the City Address. Tickets are $25 per person or $300 for a table sponsorship. Contact the Chamber at (925) 228-2345 to reserve your seat or table sponsorship.

City News Continued

Citizens of the Year

The Martinez Chamber of Commerce is now accepting letters of nomination for the 2015 Citizens of the Year Awards. The awards are given in the following categories: Man of the Year, Woman of the Year, Young Man of the Year, Young Woman of the Year, Lifetime Achievement Award, Service Without Borders, and Educator/Teacher of the Year.

Complete nomination guidelines can be found on the Chamber website, www. martinezchamber.com. Nomination letters will be accepted until 5pm on Thursday, February 25.

Save the date for the Citizen of the Year Awards Banquet Saturday, April 30, 6-9pm. Details will be available soon at www.martinezchamber.com.

Free Wi-Fi Now Available

According to Mary Burdick, manager of Customer Service/Community Outreach for the Central Contra Costa Transit Authority, free Wi-Fi service is now available on all County Connection fixed-route buses. This is part of the real time improvement that began two years ago. The free Wi-Fi service is secured through the sprint network.

Now, accessing the Internet, email and social media accounts will be seamless.

Sand and Sandbag Locations

The City of Martinez has four locations for stockpiling sand and one location (City Hall) with sandbags only for use by residents during heavy rains and/or flooding. Sandbags only are located at City Hall, 525 Henrietta Street, in front of the police department. The following four locations have easy access, are lighted, stocked with sand, and have a sand filling station. Residents need to provide their own tools for loading the sand. If you have any questions, call the Public Works Maintenance Yard at (925) 372-3580, M-F 7am-3:30pm.

• Nancy Boyd Park, on Pleasant Hill Rd. E. & Church St.

• F St., at the west end of F St. off Alhambra Ave., at the beginning

of the Park District trail, just past Alhambra High School

• At the corner of Ferry & Allen Streets, by the Kiwanis Club

• Rankin Park, at the end of Buckley Street, upper parking lot

Interim City Manager

The City of Martinez has retained Jim Jakel as a consultant on a part-time, temporary basis to perform the services of interim city manager. The term was effective January 1, 2016, and continues through April 15, 2016, or until the appointment of a new city manager.

Martinez Recreation Summer Job Fair

The job fair is Saturday, February 27, 10am-noon, at the Rankin Aquatic Center, 100 Buckley Street. Positions include: Swim Instructor, Lifeguard, Pool Management, Recreation Leader, Ballfield Maintenance, and Cashier. Visit www.cityofmartinez.org, Winter/ Spring Guide for more detailed information and job requirements.

Measure H Update – Hidden Lakes Soccer Field

The city is currently advertising bids for the grading, drainage, and site improvements for the Hidden Lakes Soccer Field. Five contractors were prequalified, based on experience, financial strength, and other factors. Bids will open February 2 and be awarded by the city council on February 17. Concurrently, the city is advertising a Request for Proposal for the installation of the synthetic turf portion of the field. There are many types of synthetic turf systems and infill available. To maximize and develop a better understanding of the options, the city has elected to request information on proposed alternate systems. If necessary, interviews will be conducted for selected vendors. ourcommunityfocus.com • february 2016

13

City of Walnut Creek

Mayor’s Message

My name is Loella Haskew. I am a (mostly) retired CPA. I have a master’s degree in taxation from Golden Gate University. To pay back to my profession, I was a member of the State Tax Committee of the California Society of CPAs and, for a few years, an adjunct professor for the Masters of Tax program at Golden Gate University.

To pay back to my community, I served as a board member and volunteer for many non-profits and as a member of both the Walnut Creek Arts Vision Task Force and the Blue Ribbon Task Force for Fiscal Sustainability. When I retired from my accounting firm in mid-2012, I decided I could use my education, work experience, volunteer perspective, and love for Walnut Creek to take on the challenge of being elected to city council. Now, as of December 1, 2015, I

am the mayor of Walnut Creek.

With that title comes the expectation and opportunity to pick a theme for the year. My slogan for this year is “Walnut Creek Works!” That phrase symbolizes how so many components in the development and operation of a city like Walnut Creek mesh. In short, our predecessors worked to make some visionary decisions to guide the city’s growth. The city’s staff works to make sure that our citizens and visitors experience a safe, attractive environment.

Our businesses work to offer world-class restaurants, stores, medical services, and professional services. The community works through their involvement in many non-profit and faith-based organizations.

Combined, all those efforts work to make Walnut Creek an example of one of the

Loella Haskew, Mayor of Walnut Creek

most attractive, desirable cities in the Bay Area.

For much of my term on city council, I have focused on reminding drivers, bicyclists and pedestrians to be more aware and more active in following not only the rules of the road, but also to exercise common sense and courtesy. The goal of this attention is to make all forms of mobility safer and more pleasant for everyone. Over the year, I will end my articles with suggestions for readers on how to achieve this goal in Walnut Creek or their own cities.

I am also passionate about Walnut Creek’s important role as a center for the arts in the county. The Lesher Theater celebrated its 25th anniversary last October.

The two larger stages offer a wide variety of productions, including the fully professional California Symphony, the amazing Center Repertory Company, the thought-provoking Lesher Speaker Series, plus many other unique presentations. The smallest theater

in the building hosts intimate audience attractions like improv and edgier productions. Also located in the theater’s building is the Bedford Gallery, home of four or five special themed visual art shows. The newly renovated Del Valle Theater is the home stage for the Diablo Ballet Company. Civic Arts Education offers an opportunity to young and old alike to learn or appreciate performing and visual arts. The city is the home of Benny Bufano’s Hand of Peace in Civic Park, the most recognized piece in a diverse, growing collection of public art.

My future columns will include more about the fantastic arts attractions as the year progresses.

Come and enjoy Walnut Creek.

TRAFFIC SAFETY TIP for drivers, bicyclists, and pedestrians: Distractions can be deadly. Eliminate anything that prevents you from concentrating on the path before you. Please put down that cell phone! That call or text can wait.

Public Meetings City Council Meeting Feb. 2, 16 Council Chambers, 1666 North Main Street, 6-11pm. Contact: 943-5819 Design Review Meeting Feb. 4, 18 Council Chambers, 1666 North Main Street, 7pm. Contact: 943-5819 Planning Commission Meeting Feb. 11, 25 Council Chambers, 1666 North Main Street, 7-11pm. Contact: 943-5819 For Confirmation Visit: www.walnut-creek.org

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

2015

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february 2016 • ourcommunityfocus.com

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

City of Walnut Creek

Walnut Creek City News

City News Continued

Rooftop Opens in March

The Friends of Civic Arts Education Foundation hosts the 10th annual Viva Arts gala on Friday, February 19, at the Shadelands Arts Center. The Friends Foundation raises money for Civic Arts Education scholarships, equipment and programming.

For more information about the gala as well as the Civic Arts Education Foundation, go to www.friendsartsed.org.

The highly anticipated Rooftop Restaurant & Bar is set to open in March. The restaurant, literally situated at the top of the three-story building at the corner of Main Street and Mount Diablo Boulevard, includes open-air space for views of Mount Diablo and the bustling streets below. The space also features several dining areas, water features, and a lush living wall. The team behind Rooftop includes Chef/partner Justine Kelly and Jim and Jennifer Telford of Residual Sugar, a wine bar located on Locust Street. According to their website, the menu includes a raw bar with oysters and tuna tartar and “ingredient driven, seasonal new American cuisine that is influenced by foods from around the globe.” Rooftop cooks will harvest fresh herbs directly from the restaurant’s living wall.

The Spanish pintxos and tapas restaurant Teleferic Barcelona, located in the same building as Rooftop, opened January 17. The restaurant includes two cable cars that glide over your head as you eat, as well as outdoor seating that faces Mt. Diablo Blvd.

First Wednesdays Wednesday Night Lights - A Super Community Celebration for Super Bowl!

Walnut Creek has joined over 50 cities throughout the Bay Area as a designated Super Community, and Cypress Street will come alive with the rocking sounds of the Bay Area’s own Mustache Harbor to celebrate Super Bowl 50. Imagine a football field in the heart of downtown, with games, food, and festivities awaiting all fun seekers ready to gear up for the game. Walnut Creek Downtown, The City of Walnut Creek, and The Bedford Gallery have partnered together to bring out the best in our “Super Community!” Walnut Creek First Wednesdays Street Fest, located on Cypress Street (Between Main Street & Locust Street) from 5-8pm. Enjoy FREE parking on Wednesday nights after 5pm at these participating garages: N. Locust Garage at 1625 Locust St.; S. Locust Garage at 1350 Locust St.; and N. Broadway Garage at 1390 N. Broadway.

Viva Arts! Fundraiser

El Niño

El Niño’s heavy rains are here. Sandbag stations are in five locations throughout Walnut Creek: Lancaster Rd./Orchard Ln., Howe Homestead Park, Larkey Park, Heather Farm Park, and Rudgear Park. Bring your own shovel! Sand can also be found at local hardware stores.

Everyone can help reduce the danger of flooding by keeping leaves and debris out of street gutters and storm drain entrances. If flooding occurs during the week, don’t hesitate to call Public Works at 925-943-5854, between 7am and 4pm. After hours, call Police Dispatch at 925-935-6400.

Free tax preparation

Free tax preparation for the 2016 tax season is available, starting in February, from AARP’s Tax-Aide and United Way’s Earn It, Keep It, Save It (EKS) programs. All tax preparers are trained and certified by the IRS. Both programs serve taxpayers of any age. For information or to make an appointment, call 925- 943-5851 for the Walnut Creek Senior Club site; 925-405-6278 for the Walnut Creek Grace Presbyterian Church site; or 925-979-5013 for the Walnut Creek St. Paul’s Episcopal Church site.

For information on EKS sites, call 2-1-1 or visit www.earnitkeepitsaveit.org.

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My Hero! Comes to the Bedford Gallery

The Bedford Gallery brings superheroes to Walnut Creek with their upcoming exhibition “My Hero! Contemporary Art & Superhero Action,” through March 20.

Experience the escapades of iconic superheroes with this pumped-up collection of international artworks in a variety of media. My Hero celebrates and re-envisions the possibilities that exist when you have a magic cape, lasso, or some superhuman power that changes everything. Our heroes’ desire to fight for truth and justice provide a rich source of artistic inspiration. Tuesday through Sunday, noon - 5pm, and 6 - 8pm on evenings when there are theater productions in the LCA. The gallery is closed on Mondays. For more information, visit www.bedfordgallery.org.

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WCPD in Shadelands

The Walnut Creek Police Department will open a field office in Shadelands.

The field office will help provide a visible police presence in the Shadelands area and the surrounding neighborhoods. Officers working in the area will no longer have to drive back to City Hall to conduct business. This will result in lowered response times, a visible crime deterrent, and more efficient investigation of crimes.

Although the field office will not be open to the public initially, signage and the increased presence of police vehicles will be noticeable as soon as the space is available. It is anticipated that police department volunteers will eventually open a public counter within the field office for several hours each week. Shadelands is located at the intersections of Ygnacio Valley Road and Oak Grove Road in Walnut Creek.

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ourcommunityfocus.com • february 2016

15

Senior Living

Martinez Senior Activities 818 Green Street, Martinez 925-370-8770

27 Years of Dedication

David Coluzzi moved from New Jersey to take the lead as president of Carlton Senior Living. As “the new guy,” he makes it a point to introduce himself to residents and more than 1,000 employees at the company’s eleven senior living communities throughout the Bay Area and Sacramento region.

Coluzzi was “a bit surprised” to meet one employee, Amelia Dobshinsky, a 27-year veteran and the longest serving employee in the company’s 30-year history.

Dobshinsky is the head of the wait staff at Carlton Senior Living’s original community in Pleasant Hill, and has been with them since before the company was known by that name. She began working at what was then called Intercontinental Services in January 1989 as a member of the wait staff in the community’s dining room. She was promoted to the lead wait staff position in the late 1990s and served temporarily as dining room manager before opting to remain the wait staff leader, where she now coordinates meal service for more than 200 residents, three times a day.

The family-oriented nature of the staff has never changed, Dobshinsky notes. “The annual family barbecue with the residents, staff and owners of the company are always a highlight.” And she remembers company founder Tom MacDonald as “a wonderful

Thursdays – Bingo, open for sales at 12pm, games start at 1pm.

AARP Free Tax-Aide Tax Preparation Notice for 2015 - This service, provided by IRS certified tax counselors, starts in February. Tax-Aide does not specify an income limit, but the service targets low and moderate income taxpayers of any age, with special attention given to seniors 60+. For appointments and information, call Mtz. Senior Center (925) 370-8770 or Pacheco Community Center site (925) 709-4525. For general information, call (925) 726-3199.

Feb. 14 - Pancake Breakfast 8-11am. Pancakes or toast, sausage, eggs, orange juice and coffee. Everyone welcome. $4 adults/$2.50 for children 10 and under. Handmade crafts for sale. Always open to the public.

Feb. 26 - Vagabond Players presents “On Borrowed Time” 1:30pm. Members: $12, non-members: $14.

President Ameilia Dobshinsky is honored by Carlton’s founder Tom MacDonald.

person who is a regular presence in the community and truly has a heart for the residents.” Current executive director, Janelle Lopez says, “A lot has changed at Carlton over the years, but Amelia’s enthusiasm and love for the residents has never faded.”

“I’ve stayed this long because I love what I do, working with the residents and bringing smiles to their faces,” said Dobshinsky. “I do wish I didn’t have to get old and could always serve them, but that is how life goes. I feel blessed to have spent my career with Carlton Senior Living.”

For more information on Carlton Senior Living’s independent and assisted living community in Pleasant Hill, call (925) 9351660. Visit the community at 2770 Pleasant Hill Road or online at www.carltonseniorliving.com.

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Mar. 20 - AARP Driver Refresher Course 4.5-hour course for those who have already taken the AARP Driver Safety Training Program (8-hour course) in the past 4 years.

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Pleasant Hill Senior Activities 233 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill 925-798-8788 Feb. 7 - Pancake Breakfast 8:30-10:30am, Chateau Room. All ages welcome! Enjoy a stack of pancakes or French toast, eggs, sausage, orange juice and coffee. Adults (11+): $5, children (5-10): $3, 4 & under: free.

Feb. 9 - Mardi Gras Party 3pm, Chateau Room. Wonderful wine selections (nonalcoholic available) and appetizers served along live New Orleans style music by Elite Jazz Band. Sponsored by the Chateaus of Pleasant Hill. Tickets: $12 presale, $15 at the door (based on availability).

Feb. 11 - Care Management Series 2pm. Care Management Series topic: “Which Assisted Living Community is Right for Me?” presented by Lori Bastian, Chateaus of PH. Call (925) 798-8788 to reserve spot.

Feb. 11 – Valentine’s Social 1pm, Chateau Room. Sing, tap your toes and dance the afternoon away with friends or your valentine to the live Paul Fontes Band. Dance partner not required! Tickets: $12 presale, $16 day of (based on availability).

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february 2016 • ourcommunityfocus.com

WORKER'S COMPENSATION

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PH Rec & Park

Read My Mind

My Little Sweetheart Dinner Dance Friday, Feb. 12, 6-7:30pm. A sweet way to celebrate Valentine’s Day as a family! Dinner and dessert, for boys and girls ages 1-10 yrs., $10.50/$9.50 (Dist. Res.); Kids under 1, free.

BY MICHAEL G. HARRIS, OD

Books have always been a major source for movies.

Many of Hollywood’s best, like The Wizard of Oz, Gone With The Wind, and The Godfather, were based on bestsellers.

Last year was no exception. In anticipation of this year’s Academy Awards, I reviewed books that were made into some of last year’s hottest movies.

Bruce Cook’s Dalton Trumbo is “the biography of the Oscar-winning screenwriter who broke the Hollywood Blacklist” and the basis for the award winning film Trumbo. The movie centers on Trumbo’s fight against “the blacklist,” Hollywood screenwriters who were not allowed to work in the 1950s because of suspected Communist ties. It was the McCarthy era and Congress was on a witch-hunt for anyone “pink.” Bryan Cranston’s portrayal of Trumbo is Oscarworthy. While the book focuses on the Blacklist, it also covers Trumbo’s life from childhood to death. Both the book and the movie are worth your time. I give the movie Two Big Eyes Up!©

“To five-year-old Jack, room is the world.” That is the premise for Emma Donoghue’s haunting novel Room, as told by young Jack. His mother, Ma, was kidnapped seven years ago and forced to live in a shed (the “room”) by her captor. “Room” is where Jack was born and raised and the only world he knows.

In this confined environment, Jack’s endless imagination runs wild, while Ma endures the torture of this prison and her kidnapper. This riveting and poignant story of love, survival, and courage is challenging to read, but makes a compelling movie. Two Eyes Up!©

Michael Lewis’ The Big Short is the story of hotshot investors who made billions by predicting the economic downfall of the 2008 recession. They predicted that subprime interest loans would fail and people wouldn’t be able to pay mortgages on their overly

Announcements and Events Come Together 6 Benefit Concert (21 yrs & up) Friday, Feb. 26, 7:30-10:30pm, PH Community Center Perera Pavilion. Don’t miss the talented musicians in this popular all-star benefit show for PH Teen Center. Adult beverages available for purchase. Tickets online at cometogether6.eventbrite.com. Tickets: $20 pp. Must be 21 years old.

Pleasant Hill Preschool 2016-17 Registration March 5, 9am, Community Center. Registration is first come, first served. Questions? Contact Sarah Smith at (925) 676-5200 ext. 626 or ssmith@pleasanthillrec.com.

Spring Break Camps for Youth & Teens March 28 - April 1. Plan Early! Sign up now. KIDSTOP SpringBreak Camp (grades K-5); Youth Tennis Camp (6-12 yrs); and Xtreme Spring Break at the Teen Center (grades 6 & up; siblings grades 3 & up). Visit pleasanthillrec.com.

Dolfin Swim Team Registration Now - May 20, District Office (M-F, 9am-5pm), or at pleasanthillrec.com. Priority registration now - Feb. 21 for returning Dolfins & siblings. New team member registration opens Feb. 22. Call (925) 682-0896 for more info.

Hiring Lifeguards for Summer 2016! Contact Korey Riley at (925) 682-0896.

NFL Youth Flag Football (Co-Ed, Grades 3-8) Hut! Hut! Hike! Join our spring Youth Flag Football program, sponsored by the National Football League. Season play begins April16 for 6 weeks, Saturday games. Sports jersey and football included. Fees: $145/$130 (Dist. Res.) Register at pleasanthillrec.com by April 1.

Wine Women & Shoes Sunday, May 15, 2-6pm, Community Center Perera Pavillion. Be there! Be fabulous! Sip fine wines, savor delicious food, shop the latest in designer shoes and fashion, bid on exciting auction prizes and enjoy an incredible fashion show. Benefits Rehabilitation Services of Northern California and Pleasant Hill Recreation & Park District. Buy tickets now at http:// winewomenandshoes.com/contracosta.

©

And the Oscar Goes To...

financed homes. Unfortunately, they were correct. They made a fortune by buying the insurance on these mortgages at an extremely low rate (“buying short”) before the recession and then selling at their higher value during the recession. Both the book and the movie help the uninitiated (such as me) understand what happened. The book is more thorough and informative. The movie is more entertaining. Two Eyes Up!©

Nathaniel Philbrick’s In The Heart Of The Sea is the true story of the whaling ship Essex, sunk by a giant sperm whale in 1820. It was the inspiration for Herman Melville’s classic novel Moby Dick.

Even though crewmembers survived the shipwreck, many succumbed before they were rescued. Some were victims of cannibalism. The book is a “fantastic saga of survival and adventure” and a marvelous history of the whaling industry. The movie doesn’t do the book justice. One Eye Up!©

Emmeline Pankhurst’s Suffragette, My Own Story is the autobiography of one of the most important women’s rights activist of the early 20th century.

Pankhurst revolutionized the struggle for suffrage in Britain by moving beyond pacifism to “violent protest and hunger strikes.” The book chronicles her life from her budding “interest in feminism through her militant and controversial fight for women’s right to vote” and beyond. Two Eyes Up!©

Other worthwhile books and Eyes Up© movies from last year are David Ebershoff‘s The Danish Girl (Eddie Redmayne is fantastic!), Colm Toibin’s Brooklyn, Andrew Weil’s The Martian, and Mitch Cullin’s A Slight Trick of the Mind (movie title Mr. Holmes.) Bill Bryson’s A Walk In The Woods is a great read, but the movie is a real stinker. Two Big Eyes Down!©

With so many movies based on great books, I can hardly wait to hear: “And the Oscar goes to…”

Rating System: Two Eyes Up: Excellent; One Eye Up: Good; One Eye Down: Fair; Two Eyes Down: Poor

ourcommunityfocus.com • february 2016

17

Everyday Feng Shui

Valentine’s Day Romance - Just an Enhancement Away FENG SHUI BY MARIA

My clients ask, “How can I find love?

How can I strengthen and reenergize the romance in my life?”

I answer them by explaining the direct correlation between home and the quality of their relationships.

The energy in your home can help you achieve your loving relationship goals.

In the Feng Shui Bagua (Ba-gua) Map, represented as a grid of nine sectors, the Love and Marriage area is located in the back right corner of your home and is particularly associated with “adaptability, devotion, and unconditional support.”

Enhancements in this area are particularly helpful if you want to attract a love relationship, improve a current relationship, or want to develop a nurturing, healthy, happy relationship with yourself.

Begin with the Love and Marriage area of your home first, and then you can make I’m not in trouble anymore!

I called Hire My Husband to take care of our “Honey Do List”!

similar enhancements in other rooms. This is especially important if you are missing the Love corner from your home. Whichever room is located in the Love area, basic Feng Shui principles can help you nurture and strengthen yourself and your relationships and even send out the energy to help you find your perfect soul mate.

The element for this area is Fire, and

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february 2016 • ourcommunityfocus.com

the colors are red, pink or white. Representations of this element can be used inside and outside of your home or business, as well as in the right back corner of every room. Begin by cleaning and de-cluttering the area, then enhance with one or more of the following: • Photos of you and your significant other • Pairs of items (lovers, doves, hearts, candles, vases, figurines, etc.)

• Art with a romantic theme • Quotes, affirmations and sayings pertaining to love and marriage • Items that have a personal association to love and marriage (romantic vacations/ honeymoon mementos)

When adding enhancements to other rooms, stand at the entrance to the room facing in and locate the back right corner, then place one or more enhancement mentioned above in the space. Examples include: a picture of you and your partner, red/pink orchid with two stems, red/pink

candles, a pair of love birds, and romantic art. Have fun with it!

The master bedroom is one of the most important rooms in your home, and it’s important to add Feng Shui Love enhancements, regardless of the location of this room. The ideal location for a master bedroom is the far back right corner; unfortunately, not all homes are built this way. As you decorate your bedroom, incorporate some of the red spectrum to bring in fire, pairs of items, and romantic representations.

If you are single and looking for a relationship, you should design the room as if two people are already living there. For example, make sure to use two nightstands and two lamps, and leave room in the closet. This signifies the intent that you want to share your life with your soul mate. Walls should be any of the colors of natural skin tones: from light cream, pinks, and peaches, to warm reds and dark browns. Because the feeling should evoke warmth, coziness and fire, blues, greens, whites, greys and black are too cool for bedroom walls.

This Valentine’s Day, create a space in your home and life for a perfect relationship with your perfect mate. Enlist the energy in your environment to help you achieve your goals.

Blessings!

Maria McCullough - Feng Shui by Maria (www.fengshuibymaria.com) A graduate of the Western School of Feng Shui with over 20 years experience, specializing in residential, landscape and business consultations.

Time To Strut

Retirement is About Enjoying Life

Sons In Retirement (SIR) is a non-profit public benefit corporation for retired men.

SIR is dedicated to the collegiality and comradeship of men who are retired or about to retire. Having fun is our goal. We have more than 17,000 members in 131 branches throughout Northern California, from Bakersfield to the Oregon border, and from Lake Tahoe to the Pacific Ocean. While chartered as a men’s social group, a large number of activities offered to members are co-ed groups in which members can enjoy social activities with their spouses or companions.

Membership is open to men retired from full-time occupations, regardless of age, race, color, or religion. To join SIR, a man must be retired or semi-retired, attend monthly luncheons, and be sponsored by an active member. SIR members staff, administer, and govern all branch activities.

Each branch has been chartered by the necessity of its popularity, causing growth in the area and the need to expand. Each branch sets up its own board of directors, luncheon meetings, guest speakers, and activities, as they choose. There are currently seven Walnut Creek area branches.

In all, there are nineteen branches in the Alameda and Contra Costa areas.

Monthly luncheon meetings are central to the SIR mission. Members renew old friendships and establish new ones, and guest speakers are invited to speak on topical subjects of general interest. Most branches have summer and winter luncheons where wives, partners, and guests are invited.

Branch activities are as expansive as members’ interests, which include: automobiles, golf, bowling, bridge, gardening, annual bar-b-ques, bocce ball, fishing, wine finders, dining-in, dining-out, walking,

hiking, games, computers, RVs, investing, genealogy, and many other activities.

An extensive travel program is also available to all members and their guests.

Travel events vary from one-day local excursions to trips of several weeks to destinations throughout the world.

SIR supports no outside cause or interest. We prohibit discussions of politics and religion or the selling of anything to any member. We don’t raise money. We don’t have a political agenda. We don’t have a religious orientation. We don’t sell light bulbs or anything else. It’s time to enjoy life.

Our founders chose the rooster as the official SIR logo to represent the freedom he displays around the barnyard. We have paid our dues to the business world, and now it’s time for us to strut and crow a little.

Visit www.sirinc.org for general SIR information, or any of the local branch websites:

Marson and Candelori J. Rockcliff Realtors

We are Ken Marson and Cristina Candelori. Yes, we are realtors, but what is more important is that we are your neighborhood realtors. We have been in this neighborhood for over 25 years combined, and we love Pleasant Hill. Our backgrounds are in broadcast communications and marketing. We are active volunteers for the City of Pleasant Hill. We strive to be a household name and a community resource for everyone.

In addition to that, we take the guesswork out of real estate. We are extremely hands-on and always have our clients’ best interests in mind. Real estate is a servicerelated industry and that’s how it should remain. We pride ourselves on fostering relationships over time, and when a buyer or seller is ready, so are we.

From beginning to end, we not only market your home with the latest technology and look at comparable sales, we get our hands dirty too. With every home we sell, we help with the yard work, are present for all inspections, stage the home if necessary, and if a renovation of any kind is needed, we will act as project managers to get the job done.

We truly want our clients to be happy because you are our neighbors and will inevitably become our lifelong friends. This is not about the quantity of sales for us, but the quality of work we provide to every single person we meet. We know when you look back, you’ll remember us, and the positive experience you had, and that impression is priceless. Our motto is: “Love where you live,” and we mean it.

Marson and Candelori • Ken Marson and Cristina Candelori J. Rockcliff Realtors • Love Where You Live (925) 366-8269 • marsoncandelori@gmail.com BRE#01922446 • BRE#01258364

Branch 8 Walnut Creek: www.sirbr8.com Branch 19 Clayton/Concord: www.sir19.org Branch 81 Rossmoor: www.sirbranch81.org Branch 116 Walnut Creek: www.sir-web.org Branch 146 Walnut Creek/Pleasant Hill: www.sir146.com Branch 171 Lamorinda: www.branch171.sirinc2.org Branch 174 Lamorinda Hills: www.branch174.sirinc2.org

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(925) 939-7060 | SusanWoodPhotography.com | susanwoodphoto@hotmail.com ourcommunityfocus.com • february 2016

19

Reach Your New Year’s Resolution Tips and Tools to Help

BY KEVIN ARNDT, FORMA TRAINER

The theme of this article is similar to others I have written, but it is an important one to understand, especially with New Year’s resolutions kicking into high gear. You will fail. But that is ok. The quicker you understand that, the better off you will be.

I am not saying you will completely fail, but rather you will fail along the way.

The only way you can completely fail at anything is if you give up. Like clockwork, every January, I see many people coming in determined to accomplish their health goals.

It is inspiring to see people working so hard, but by March most are no longer working towards their goals. I’ve been in the industry

for 13 years and working out for 20. I’ve seen many people succeed and fail at all aspects of training. The main difference between the two comes down to how they handle failure. Some people let a setback, like missing a workout, eating badly for one meal or sleeping in, become a permanent failure, while others let that same reason become a temporary failure and a further setback.

So, how do you handle these setbacks?

It’s very simple: pick yourself up as quickly as you can. Treat it as a baseball player treats their at-bats; use the next one to pick yourself up. Baseball is a game where the best in the world fail seventy percent of the time. Some of the best are great at compartmentalizing each at-bat. If they strike out, it’s over; they can’t change it. But the next at-bat is where they can become a hero and create a hot streak. The same thing can be applied

to your New Year’s resolution. You will strike out, whether it is going out after work for some drinks, letting that voice talk you out of a workout, not losing weight as quickly as you want, having a plateau, or getting sick. It happens, but use the very next at-bat to pick yourself up. Use the next meal or workout to create that hot streak. Don’t let one strike out turn into a slump. Don’t focus on what you did wrong; focus on what you did right.

You will get going again, and at some point you will fail again, but you need to pick yourself up…again. It is an endless cycle. Don’t

let a temporary failure become a permanent one. It is very easy to let a setback become a failure if you let it.

The quicker you understand that you will fail along the way, the better you will be. A temporary failure is ok as long as you pick yourself up. Don’t let a setback become a permanent failure. Treat every meal and workout as an opportunity to right the ship and create a hot streak. If you stick with it and understand that temporary failure is ok, you will reach your New Year’s resolutions.

College Park Dominates

College Park (8-3-4) and Clayton Valley (8-3-3) tied with a 0-0 finish on January 18. College Park met the Northgate Broncos (6-6-4) at home on January 22, resulting in another tie, 1-1, keeping them undefeated in league, 6-0-2 as of January 26.

Team captains are Logan Silva (Sr.), Caleigh Silva (Sr.) and Jasmine Safarians (So.), a young team standout with 10 goals and a hat trick thus far. CP Varsity Coach Jorge Silva remarked, “The girls are working hard to finish the season strong and have some difficult games ahead of them in order to finish on top of league. The team and coaching staff would like to invite the community to come out and support College Park Women’s Soccer on Thursday, February 4, for Senior Night, 7pm, at College Park.”

Senior Caleigh Silva. Photo by Conrad’s Photography.

Pictured is College Park senior Maddie Shughrou with the Clayton Valley Eagles. Photo by Conrad’s Photography.

20

february 2016 • ourcommunityfocus.com

College Park Wrestlers Place Cheer Champs

College Park High School freshman Gus Petruske is 17-3 thus far at 108 lbs. and placed 5th at the Coast Classic in Aptos and 2nd at the Joe Rios Tournament in Chico. Senior Nate Prado placed 6th at the Coast Classic at 126 lbs. and 7th at the Joe Rios Tournament at 120lbs, and sophomore Joey Rodondi placed 6th at the Joe Rios Tournament at 195 lbs. Both Coast Classic and Joe Rios tournaments had more than 48 teams in attendance. The wrestling team, under the realm of 3rd year Head Coach Leroy Rivers, placed 2nd at the Freedom Duals and 3rd at the Hollister Duals.

Submitted by James Keck.

College Park High School senior wrestlers pictured (L-R): Pierce Baker, Don Barnwell, Nate Prado and Thomas Garcia.

The CYC All-Star Aquamarine (Mini Level 1) Cheer Team earned 1st place at the American Masterpiece National Championship at the San Jose Convention Center on Sunday, January 24

Pictured front to back (L to R): Maddie, Eliana, Aya, Sabrina, Alynna, Mara, Destiny, Rihanna, Coach Cassie, Aylin, Katie, Alanis, and Coach Lexi.

Bronco Girls Basketball

The Northgate Broncos are off to a strong 3-1 start in league play that began with a win over College Park, then another against team rival Clayton Valley Charter in overtime.

Senior Celi Olquin had four double-double games, scoring her first against College Park 10 points, 10 rebounds; Clayton Valley Charter 14 points, 11 rebounds; Concord 14 points, 12 rebounds, and Mt. Diablo 13 points, 11 rebounds.

Freshman Macy Woodworth also had a double-double with 20 points and 13 rebounds in Friday’s Mt. Diablo game. Catch their last home games: Feb. 9 vs. Mt. Diablo at 7pm, and Senior Night, Feb.16, vs. Berean at 5:30pm. Photo by Eric Fuller

ourcommunityfocus.com • february 2016

21

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february 2016 • ourcommunityfocus.com

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Acalanes High School

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MEET

Pair Up

Tropical Winter

After months of cold weather and lots of big red wines, it may be time for a change.

And, although the warm weather is still months away, there are some terrific white wines with a little extra body and flavor which make them excellent companions to a crisp winter day. As a bonus, they often have tropical flavors, making them perfect for dishes starring tropical fruits. Together, they will have you dreaming of summer.

Viognier (pronounced: vee-ohn-yay) is an increasingly popular grape that has traveled from its home in France to many corners of the winemaking world.

It makes distinctive wines that have all the weight of a Chardonnay. The aromas are dominated by tropical and stone fruits, blended with lovely floral compo-

nents. Pair your dry Viognier with Major Grey’s Mango Chutney (Safeway) and Brie atop crunchy crostini bread. The spicy sweet combination of the chutney is offset by the umami (read: savory, earthy) flavors of the cheese. Umami often brings out fruit flavors in wine.

Semillon (pronounced: se-meeohn) also originated in France but now has a stronghold in Australia. Most of Australia’s Semillon is picked a little extra ripe, aged in oak, and undergoes malolactic fermentation to produce a rich white wine similar to Chardonnay. Semillon’s honey, orange and lime flavors are delicious with most Asian cuisines, including this Asian Salmon. A bright Pineapple Salsa offers an acidic punch to the dish, and with simple steamed white rice and sautéed Sesame Spinach you have a complete plate.

One of my favorite tropical fruit desserts is Pineapple Upside Down Cake

A Taste of Bordeaux

aboard AmaWaterways’ AmaDagio

Join VinoCruising and Wence’s Restaurant for an informational evening highlighting their upcoming river cruise, “A Taste of Bordeaux.”

Chef Gerardo Wence will be our host on this adventure 10/28/16 – 11/4/16.

INFORMATIONAL CRUISE NIGHT: Feb. 23, 5:30pm at Wence’s Restaurant 1922 Oak Park Blvd., Pleasant Hill 925.566.8971 Appetizers provided/No-host bar INFORMATION / RSVP: VinoCruising 925.399.4269

(recipe found at www.LaSommelierre. com and www.ourcommunityfocus. com.) For me, the best part is the sticky sweet syrup that is created as the pineapple juice and brown sugar cook together. Late harvest white wines have sweet honeysuckle and ripe fruit flavors, as well as a toasty, caramel flavor that comes from oak aging. Both Viognier and Semillon grapes make fantastic, late harvest dessert wines, or you can choose just about any other white dessert wine and create a successful pairing

Sesame Spinach INGREDIENTS 3 tbsp. dark sesame oil 1 tbsp. minced garlic 1 lb. fresh spinach, cleaned and washed, large leaves roughly chopped 1 tbsp. sugar 1 tbsp. soy sauce Salt to taste 1 tbsp. toasted sesame seeds DIRECTIONS Heat 2 tablespoons of the sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook briefly. Add the spinach and cook, stirring occasionally, until the spinach is completely wilted. Turn the heat to low.

Stir in the sugar and soy sauce. Remove from the heat. Add salt to taste. Sprinkle with sesame seeds.

Yield: 4 Servings

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

Pineapple Salsa INGREDIENTS 1 1/2 cups chopped pineapple 1/4 cup chopped red onion 2 tablespoons sugar 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1/2 - 1 teaspoon chopped jalapeno pepper 1 teaspoon finely minced ginger 1 tablespoon fresh chopped mint DIRECTIONS Mix ingredients in glass bowl. Adjust seasonings to taste. Refrigerate at least 4 hours.

Yield: 1¾ cups

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

to top off your tropical meal.

So, go on. Pair Up!

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

Asian Salmon INGREDIENTS Glaze: 2 tablespoons ketchup 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce 2 tablespoons rice vinegar 2 tablespoons light brown sugar 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil 2 teaspoons Asian chili-garlic sauce 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger Salmon: 1-1/2 teaspoon brown sugar ¾ teaspoon kosher salt ½ teaspoon cornstarch 4 salmon fillets (about 1-1/2 to 2 pounds total) Freshly ground black pepper 1 teaspoon vegetable oil DIRECTIONS Combine glaze ingredients in small saucepan; whisk until combined. Over medium-high heat, bring the sauce up to boil, and then reduce heat to maintain a simmer for 3 minutes. Remove pan from burner and cover to keep the sauce warm until you are ready to put the salmon in the oven.

Preheat your oven to 300-degrees, and set an oven rack in middle position. In a small bowl, stir together brown sugar, kosher salt, and cornstarch. Use paper towels to dry the salmon’s surface. Grind some fresh black pepper on the meatside, and then evenly sprinkle the sugar/ salt mixture. Rub into fish so that it evenly covers the meat.

Add 1 teaspoon vegetable oil to 12”, oven-safe, non-stick skillet. Place over a medium-high burner and pre-heat until it just begins to smoke. Sear salmon, skin-side up, for 2 minutes until forms a browned crust. Turn and cook with the skin-side down for 1 to 2 minutes.

Yield: 4 servings

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

ourcommunityfocus.com • february 2016

23

Poetry Out Loud

Westwater Earns Eagle

Popular Event Returns to Las Lomas

Poetry Out Loud returns to Las Lomas High School’s theatre on Saturday, February 6, at 11am. Sixteen schools in Contra Costa County will participate, and the finalists will compete to represent the county at the California championship on February 29. The national finals take place in May.

Poetry Out Loud is a contest that encourages high school students to learn about great poetry through memorization and recitation. The program helps students master public speaking skills, build self-confidence, and learn about their literary heritage.

Each high school holds a competition in the fall to determine their winner. College Park had six participants, with freshman Nic Doorlay placing first. Doorlay, who recited “Beginnings” by James Wright, will participate in the February 6 competition. “After he won, he worked on this poem with the poetry coach Alison Luterman, who was provided by the county.

He will be required to recite two poems at the county competition, and if he wins there, he will need to recite three at the state level,” said Ruth Shumate, College Park librarian who facilitated the competition at Northgate and College Park High Schools. Northgate had three competitors, and senior Emily Zhang came in first place.

The students memorize poems they

College Park freshman Nic Doorlay moves on to the Contra Costa County Poetry Out Loud competition on February 6.

select from a list of over 800 poems on the Poetry Out Loud website. A panel of judges score six aspects of their recitations: Accuracy, Physical Presence, Voice and Articulation, Dramatic Appropriateness, Level of Understanding, and Overall Performance. The cumulative highest scoring student moves on to the state finals in Sacramento.

The National Endowment for the Arts and the Poetry Foundation partners with state arts agencies to make Poetry Out Loud happen. For more information, visit www.poetryoutloud.org or email Robin Moore at poetryforac5@gmail.com.

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february 2016 • ourcommunityfocus.com

Forrest Dylan Westwater, the son of Fran Westwater and the late Charlie Westwater, has achieved the rank of Eagle Scout, the highest rank in Boy Scouts. Westwater will be formally presented the Eagle Scout award at a Court of Honor ceremony in Pleasant Hill at the Hope Center Covenant Church on March 13.

Westwater, 17, is a resident of Pleasant Hill, a senior at College Park High School, and a member of Boy Scout Troop 277, under the leadership of Scoutmasters Mike Warriner and Frank Powell.

Westwater initiated and completed the design and landscaping for a vacant lot next to the John Muir Visitor Center in Martinez for his Eagle Scout Community Service Project. He coordinated this effort with California Contractors Alliance Corporation, Tom Weatherford, UCI Construction, Ewing Irrigation, the Alhambra Valley Native Plant Society, Keith Park, and the National Parks Service. To create this educational native plant garden for the Muir Visitor Center, Westwater supervised 48 volunteers for over 315 hours.

During his Scouting career, Westwater attended Philmont Scout Ranch in 2015 and 2013, earning the “We All Made It” Plaque in 2015. He hiked 434 miles, camped 77 nights, completed 67 hours of service, and earned 31 merit badges.

Carondelet’s Sports Complex

Last December, Carondelet High School in Concord announced it had signed a purchase agreement to acquire ClubSport Valley Vista from Leisure Sports, Inc.

The 6-acre property, located in Walnut Creek, is a tennis, swim, and fitness club. The facility was scheduled to close on January 31 but will remain open for members through the transition of ownership. Since Carondelet has no outdoor athletic fields on its small campus, the purchase will provide tennis courts, a seven-lane swimming pool, exercise facility, and also space for new soccer/lacrosse and softball fields.

“Any changes we make would need to get city approval, and we’re currently working with city administrators to determine what level of approval we would need. We do not have a timeframe for when this will be a ‘done deal,’ but we are in the process of doing our due diligence, and the timeline will depend largely on how quickly we can move through the city approval process,” said Jennifer Ortega, Carondelet’s director of communications.

Carondelet has been looking for over a year to acquire land to build an outdoor athletics complex to support their student athletes. “This property will enable us to provide our young women and our school with high-quality outdoor athletic fields and enable us to expand our programming, community outreach, and summer offerings,” said Carondelet High School President Bonnie Cotter. Carondelet is exploring ways the facility can continue to serve as a resource for the community during this time of transition and in the future.

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Band on the Run

On Saturday, February 27, 6-10pm, get treated to an evening of music from studentled jazz and classical combos from Northgate High School at the second annual Orchestra and Band on the Run fundraiser.

The event at Savior’s Lutheran Church in Lafayette includes dinner and auction along with dance music provided by Northgate Instrumental Music Booster parent and D.J. Scott Haney. Haney is also the event coordinator along with his wife, Debra. They created this event together last year as a fundraiser for the instrumental music group’s trip to Disneyland last April. The Haneys wanted to raise money to make up for some of the gaps in funding for the trip. When they brought “Band on the Run” (a subtle reference to the album and song by Paul McCartney and Wings) as a possible event title to the Northgate instrumental music board, the board suggested adding the word “orchestra,” and the event officially became Orchestra and Band On The Run. “We were aiming to catch people’s attention. We raised close to $5,000 for the trip, and it was such a great outpouring of generosity from the folks who came through,” said Haney.

The performing groups include Northgate HS Combo I, Northgate HS Combo II, Northgate HS String Quartet, and The Little Big Band. The evening will also showcase a Foothill Middle School combo, creating an exciting addition to the performances. “It’s a night where you can come and recreate the feeling you get when visiting a nice club where a tight jazz band is playing, the lights are low, and it’s something different. You get an upfront, intimate relationship with the musicians as they are playing in a relaxed dinner setting. We are all here to cheer on our band,” added Haney.

The event includes an auction, raffle, dinner with wine and beer, and dancing. The goal is to raise $10,000 to purchase and repair musical instruments, fund transportation and entry fees to music festivals, and buy music scores and other related music equipment. For tickets, visit http://2016orchestraandbandontherun.brownpapertickets.com.

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ourcommunityfocus.com • february 2016

25

ANNUAL

CAMPAIGN Be a Part of Progress – Donate Today for the Future of Our Community’s Schools

2016 CAMPAIGN GOAL $50,000 WHY GIVE? STRONG SCHOOLS BENEFIT YOU!

HOW YOU CAN HELP

Foundation for Pleasant Hill Education (FPHE) suggests a donation of $75 or more. Donations of all amounts are appreciated. FPHE’s ability to issue school grants is solely dependent on the support of the community.

Strong schools greatly benefit students. They also help increase property values as more homebuyers understand our community’s dedication to supporting local education. Businesses thrive and grow. Most importantly, strong schools enhance the future of our community.

HOW TO DONATE

Since 2009, thanks to community support, FPHE has awarded over $220,000 in grants to our community’s 11 public schools.

Donate online at www.fphe.org or mail to FPHE, P.O. Box 23851, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523.

FPHE HAS FUNDED:

HOW ARE DONATIONS USED?

• Books for entire grade levels: reference, biographies, literature pieces, early readers.

• Classroom equipment: maps, graphing calculators, DNA research tools, lab equipment, LCD projectors, interactive whiteboards.

• Curriculum support items: math/science programs, “living history” programs, literature programs.

• Items to support the arts: musical instruments/supplies, stage lighting and audio equipment.

Funds raised go to school grants issued in May 2016.

LEARN MORE

To become a FPHE member or learn more about 2016 campaign events, email contact@fphe.org.

Be a Part of Progress - Donate Today at www.fphe.org or mail the coupon below. Questions? Email contact@fphe.org.

Thank you for your commitment to education and our community.

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Please mail this coupon to: FPHE, P.O. Box 23851• Pleasant Hill, CA 94523 (Tax ID#: 26-2326345) • Please make check payable to FPHE Donations to FPHE’s 2016 Annual Campaign reduce the impact budget cuts have on the 11 Pleasant Hill public schools.

Your donation directly benefits language arts, math, science and enrichment programs.

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february 2016 • ourcommunityfocus.com

Camp & School Fair One Warm Coat Exhibition of Summer Activities

Contra Costa Camp & School Fair returns to Lafayette for its fourth year on Sunday, Feb. 21, with free activities and over 75 exhibitors that allow attendees to view a smorgasbord of camps and enrichment programs, including S.T.E.M. & S.T.E.A.M., performing arts, preschools, educational, sports, and other programs this year. The free fair runs from 11am – 2pm at Acalanes High School, 1200 Pleasant Hill Rd., with ample free parking.

The fair is presented by Bay Area Festivals, Inc., which also produces Bay Area KidFest (27th annual May 28-30 on Memorial Day Weekend in Concord) and Super Holiday Boutiques (each December around Contra Costa). Bay Area KidFest has been voted Best Community Event four consecutive times by readers of Claycord.com. Bay Area Festivals has donated over $70,000 to educational, health, sports, and youth non-profits in the past five years.

On Sunday, April 17, they bring the inaugural free Bay Area Kids’ Book Fair to Acalanes High School in Lafayette. The free festival features authors, illustrators,

publishers, and a variety of other related businesses. Attendees can meet “The Cat in the Hat,” enjoy readings from classics and new books, free balloon art and art activities, and educational presentations. A 900-square-foot railway setup with three tracks tells the story of The Boxcar Children during the fair.

The first 200 families to enter each fair receive a free ScholarShare goody bag. There is a free raffle drawing for camps and KidFest tickets, plus anyone who brings a can of food for the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano will receive an extra raffle ticket for each can. Admission is free and there is ample free parking.

On Saturday, Feb. 20, the third annual Tri-Valley Camp & School Fair is at San Ramon Valley High School, 501 Danville Blvd., just blocks off Interstate 680 at El Cerro Blvd. exit.

Call (925) 408-4014 or visit www.

ContraCostaCampFair.com for more information. Camps, schools, businesses, and other programs wishing to exhibit at Camp & School Fair can visit the website to register.

Girl Scouts Collect Donations

BY SANDRA MULLER

Hidden Valley Elementary Girl Scout Troop 32132 teamed up with sister troops 31482, 33739 and 33333, also from Hidden Valley, for another successful One Warm Coat drive. Rain or shine, before and after school, the troops collected coats, hats, gloves, and scarves on campus.

Our amazing Hidden Valley community helped collect 383 coats! Troop Leader Lonnie Wickham was amazed by the generosity of the families at our school and their support of this drive. “I couldn’t be more proud of Girl Scout Troop 32132 for their enthusiasm and commitment to our community. With the support from our sister troops, we produced fantastic results that will help our homeless community.”

The collected items were donated to Contra Costa Homeless Outreach (CCHO).

Bill Schilz of CCHO was happy to receive the coats a few weeks before Christmas. “It was heartwarming to find that girls from

Troop 32132 at Hidden Valley Elementary, with help from Troops 31482, 33739, and 33333, held a warm jacket/coat drive to help the homeless stay warm as they face the cold weather in the elements. Meeting with several members of the troop, it was so nice to see how heartfelt their mission was and the commitment they made to help the less fortunate. Their hard work will keep a lot of people warm this winter, and their actions are a wonderful example of the true Christmas spirit. They are great role models for us all.”

A special thank you to Troop Leader Lonnie Wickham for coordinating another One Warm Coat drive, to our sister troops at Hidden Valley for their support, and to our generous Hidden Valley community for donating so many warm coats. To donate to One Warm Coat, contact www. onewarmcoat.org. For more information about Contra Costa Homeless Outreach, contact www.homelessoutreach.net.

Girl Scout Troop 32132 delivers coats to Contra Costa Homeless Outreach (CCHO). Back row L to R: Bill Schilz and Doug Stewart of CCHO and Troop Leader Lonnie Wickham. Front row L to R: Cassie Wickham, Lorelei Arnold, Kate Johnson, and Logan Muller. Photo credit: Michelle Arnold.

A FAREWELL TO MS. KIM MS. KIM IS RETIRING AT THE BEGINNING OF FEBRUARY! Please help celebrate and wish Mrs. Kim well as Strandwood’s PTA hosts a retirement celebration honoring Mrs. Kim with one last Blue Slip Ice Cream Social for all!

Please come anytime between 5 -7pm on Thurs., Feb. 4 at Strandwood’s multi-use room. Bring the whole family to this open house celebration to wish her well. Stop by to eat a sundae, say goodbye, write Mrs. Kim a blue slip & take a photo with her.

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In the Mix

Interview with Mark Stanley

BY PAUL COTRUVO

The best part of writing this column is to expose everyone to some of the Bay Area’s best musicians.

We really are lucky to live in such a rich and vibrant music scene. Lafayette’s Mark Stanley fits right into this scene and is one of the finest singer-songwriters of the area. His music harkens back to a simpler time and great storytelling. But Mark’s story is not only about his great songwriting and music ability; his story is one of inspiration and overcoming adversity.

Mark contracted meningitis a few years ago and nearly lost his life. Luckily he made it, but unfortunately, he lost the tips of his fingers - a musician’s nightmare. But Mark persevered and relearned how to play the guitar by using his knuckles. And I have to tell you, he has not lost a step. What a truly inspirational story. And not only has he come back to the music scene; he has also started teaching and sharing his talents with a new generation. Mark and filmmaker Michael Tweed have been working on a film about Mark’s struggle with meningitis, the amputation of his fingers, and his triumphant return to music. I have known Mark for many years, and I have never met a more genuine person who really cares and gives back to his community. Here’s a little glimpse: PC: How old were you when you first learned the guitar?

MS: I taught myself to play when I was about 10 years old.

PC: Who were some of your inspi-

rations and who are some of your favorites today?

MS: My first influence was The Kingston Trio. And, of course, then came the Beatles and later, John Stewart. I tend to hear a song here and there now or songs my students want to learn that I like. Not sure I have any favorites that stand out for me that are contemporary.

PC: What is your process in songwriting? Do the words come first or the music?

MS: When I first started writing, I would get the music and the first verse and chorus at the same time. Now it seems I tend to write lyrics first and then put the melody to them after. I wish I could write the way I did when I was younger.

PC: Your story is extremely inspirational. Can you describe how you felt after your surgery and what inspired you to continue making music?

MS: After I had my fingertips amputated, I thought I might literally go crazy because I wouldn’t be able to play the guitar. I had two years of not working, and so I sat with the guitar in my lap trying to figure out how I might be able to play it again. I knew I would never be able to play it like I did before, but I knew I had to figure out a way, some way, because it was just such a big part of my life. So I sat and used my thumb and the knuckle on my first finger and started playing chords that way.

PC: Do you have a favorite musical moment of your career so far?

MS: My favorite musical moment is the last show I just did with Buffy Ford, Marc Bonilla, Kelly Pine, Alan Thiele, and you.

It was really a magical afternoon for me.

The way we sounded and the way the audience reacted; it was really my favorite show I’ve ever done, and that’s a lot of shows over the last 45 years. It was so enjoyable to play with musicians that are as good as everyone was, and now that

we’re older, the egos are put away and everyone is pulling for each other. We all want the other one to shine.

PC: If you were a song, what song would you be and why?

MS: Wow, what a great question. I think I would be John Stewart’s song, “Dreamers on the Rise.” We all have to keep our dreams alive and find new ones to strive for, moving us forward.

PC: Thanks for the peek into your musical world, Mark.

Please come and see Mark perform at this year’s Come Together show on February 26 at the Pleasant Hill Community Center. You will not be disappointed.

Also, please feel free to check out the Facebook Page for Mark’s documentary, “Living in the Light”, www.facebook.com/ Living-in-the-Light-The-Documentary.

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Paul’s Picks February 5: Wonderbread 5, Dan’s Bar, 1524 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek, 10pm February 6: Tender Mercies, Armando’s, 707 Marina Vista, Martinez, 8pm February 11: Sin Silver, Rocco’s Pizzeria, 2909 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek, 8pm February 20: Queens & Thieves, Wise Girl, 1932 Oak Park Blvd., Pleasant Hill, 9pm February 26: Come Together Benefit, Pleasant Hill Community Center, 320 Civic Drive, Pleasant Hill, 7:30pm February 27: Lavay Smith, Armando’s, 707 Marina Vista, Martinez, 8pm ourcommunityfocus.com • february 2016

29

In the Garden

Ramps are All the Rave - Onions Make Their Annual Debut

BY LESLEY STILES

Rain, beautiful rain. And there’s so much of it to drench parched fields and valleys, green up gardens and woods, and gorge rivers and lakes with life-giving moisture. While up in the mountains for New Year’s, it was amazing to see more snow than I’d seen in years, blinding and majestic, with the promise of a massive, drought-breaking snow pack that could push our reservoirs to capacity come spring and summer in the Wild West.

I don’t know if I can get used to my shower without the space-taking bucket banging into moistly tender toes.

In our February gardens, life begins anew, pushing through previously clay baked, rock hard, crackling beds of soil, now sodden and heavy. Once again, the life cycle prevails. Winter crops react joyously when sprinkled almost daily by

El Niño, especially with our somewhat warmer temperatures. Lush greens thrive along rich and thick vines of snow peas and bushy, vibrant, winter thriving herbs, such as parsley and cilantro.

Fluffy, creamy-hued baby cauliflower heads poke through layers of leaves, diligently avoiding bugs under their mischievous cover and secretly maturing nicely. Miniature cabbage heads, green and purple and tightly woven enough to produce a lovely thump when tapped, stir anticipatory excitement with visions of near future tangy coleslaw, shot through with orange carrots and vermillion scallions napped in lusciously creamy lemon vinaigrette.

Broccoli is just as delicately compliant next to burgeoning beets and lengthening carrots. You have to love a winter garden.

Onions make their annual debut in the garden and on market tables in rainy winter. Allium tricoccum is a North

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it anyway. Pickling in light rice vinegar, sugar, and sea salt brine over night adds dimension and a tasty garnish to any charcuterie served. Sliced and tossed into light, buttery, scrambled eggs invoke sighs. Being the first to discover the mischievous alliums among your food loving peers adds adventure and excitement to your hopeful quest towards ramp love and adds to impending spring excitement.

Rain exercise outdoors is not only excessively possible, it’s fun! There’s a choice of steep hills with really interesting and cool houses to covet as you trek up. Despite heavy mud visions on shoes, don a raincoat and get your fanny out there. I don’t know about ya’ll, but holiday cookies and candies were astoundingly unrelenting to me this year, adding just a bit of extra unwelcome resistance to any movement I incur, and this has got to go. Walking it off in our amazing Diablo Valley, in lovingly welcome rain or not, is just sane. Move it and lose it! Happy New Year!

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

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American variety of an extraordinary treat, AKA ramps, or wild leeks. Perfectly crossed sweet onion and tangy garlic flavors characterize this bulb-forming perennial with long, flat, smooth green stalks, tapering down to burgundy, purple-tinged, diminutive bulbs, bursting with life. Ramps have become the darling of the chef’s circles, causing table frenzy in late winter hitting farmers’ markets, signaling balmy futures and visions of asparagus, strawberries, and cherries following quickly down the pike after a chilly season of citrus and broccoli. Part of the rapidly growing popularity of the ramp can be attributed to an extremely high in demand, very short foraging season. The mystery of this vegetable is that it is not quite an onion or garlic, but encompasses the best of both flavor profiles. After thorough cleansing, ramps are sublime simply tossed in salt and olive oil, placed on a first-of-the-season hot grill. Wafting smoky scents intoxicate as much as the inevitable consumption of the ramp will. Dipped in a light beer batter and deep fried, the ramp becomes an impossibly unimaginable, yet colossal combination of French fry and onion ring, defying taste bud logic as excitement builds in your mouth uncomprehendingly and your food driven self eats

february 2016 • ourcommunityfocus.com

SUPPORTING OUR LOCAL

Proudly Sponsored by Les Schwab Martinez

ORGANIZATIONS

All In Need Family Support Needs Your Help All in Need, Family Support (AiN) serves families with children with special needs, ages 18 and under who live in the East Bay Area. AiN offers support in a nurturing and learning environment that promotes social interaction and gross and fine motor activities, all in a AiN Executive Director Autumn Green (center) with the Cooks at the presentation of sensory-based atmosphere. the Angel Fund gift. Photo taken by Karen DeJager: Spectrum Photography Their “Revive” respite care program gives parents the chance to take care of themselves, so they can take better care of their children.

AiN Founder and Executive Director Autumn Green shared, “Working with families at AiN has taught me that parents and caregivers are strong. Each child that comes into AiN worms their way into the heart of every volunteer, and we hear the parents’ stories of their children’s successes and struggles.”

Autumn explains, “I often cry after hanging up with a parent, hearing how their child is taking a turn for the worse or their child’s behavior is out of control. I hear desperation in their voices as they are struggling to support their child’s needs.

Having a child on the autism spectrum myself, I understand their feelings and can tell parents it will get better. But there are times I cannot relate; all I can do is listen and try to hold it together while parents give me the latest update on their child.

Then I hang up and cry. I cannot even imagine a child having additional medical issues on top of the daily fight of autism. I cannot imagine the fight of a wheelchair, because a child is too tired to stay on her feet. I cannot imagine hearing the words ‘Your child will not make it to adulthood.’ Yet, I see these parents push on and advocate for their children. They are exhausted, but amazingly strong. As a spectator in their lives, I get to learn what love is and what dedication and strength are.”

In addition to monthly Revive sessions, AiN offers three special events a year

that give these children the opportunity to participate in mainstream events in an environment structured around their needs and allow parents to network with one another.

Lastly, they offer the Angel Fund, which helps a family in need with additional financial support for unforeseen expenses. AiN recently presented the Cook family with $250 to help with some expenses for their son, who suffered a stroke early in 2015.

For information about All in Need, Family Support or to donate to the Angel Fund, visit www.allinneed.org.

Mt. Diablo Center’s Crab Feed Tie those bibs and join in the fun as Mt. Diablo Center for Adult Day Health Care (MDC) celebrates its 41st Annual “All You Can Eat” Crab Feed on Saturday, February 20, at 6pm, at the beautiful Pleasant Hill Senior Center, 233 Gregory Lane. The festivities start with cocktails and live music, followed by delicious crab with all of the fixings, and an auction featuring the best prizes in the East Bay! Everyone is welcome, and for those who don’t eat crab, there is an alternative gourmet chicken dinner.

For over 40 years, MDC has been working to remove barriers to independence for frail people with disabilities by featuring programs that provide physical, speech and occupational therapies, social work, transportation, a healthy meal, and most importantly, a sense of community, all disguised as FUN, while giving caregivers and their families much needed respite. MDC is all about avoiding unnecessary hospitalizations and premature placement into a skilled facility. As CEO Debbie Toth often asks, “Do you hope to someday live in a nursing home?”

Join in the bidding, imbibing, cracking and merriment, and raise money for the only licensed Adult Day Care Center in the East Bay that offers English, Russian, Farsi, and late stage Alzheimer’s programs to better meet the cultural needs of our beloved clients.

To purchase tickets, visit our website www.rsnc-centers.org or call (925) 6826330x141 and ask for Peggy for more information and sponsorship opportunities.

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31

Urology News

A New Way of Managing BPH

BY WEI ZHENG, MD

Benign enlargement of prostate (BPH) is one of the most common diseases that affect American men.

It has been estimated that 70% of all men have enlarged prostate by the age of 60. By age 80, 90% of men are affected. In other words, every man will have BPH if he lives long enough!

Symptoms of BPH can be divided into two categories: obstructive or irritative voiding symptoms. Obstructive urinary symptoms include difficulty in initiating the urinary stream, intermittent and slow stream, and post-void dribbling. Irritative voiding symptoms include a sensation of not being able to empty, urinary frequency,

urgency, urgent incontinence, burning upon urination, and the urge to get up at night to urinate.

There are many treatment options for BPH. When the symptoms are mild, watchful waiting is often recommended.

When the symptoms become moderate or severe, they can be treated with medication, minimally invasive office procedures, or surgeries.

Within the last year, the FDA approved a new, minimally invasive procedure to treat BPH called the UroLift System.

It consists of a delivery device and tiny, permanent implants which, once deployed in the prostatic urethra, can lift and hold the enlarged prostate tissue out of the way, alleviating compression on the urethra.

No cutting, heating, or ablating tissue is

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involved in the UroLift procedure, making it a unique treatment that does not remove prostate tissue and does not negatively impact a man’s sexual function.

The UroLift is done in an office setting under local anesthesia. It takes 20-30 minutes to perform. Patients can expect symptoms to improve within the first week and continue improving up to three months. Patients may have some mild pelvic discomfort, a small amount of blood in the urine, and mild urgency and burning upon urination after the procedure. Patients can return to pre-procedural activity

levels within a week.

The UroLift System has been evaluated and used extensively in Europe, Australia, and Canada within the last 5-6 years. It has been proven as an effective way to manage BPH. It is an excellent option for patients with BPH who are looking for an alternative to drug therapy or more invasive surgery.

Dr. Zheng is a board certified urologist with Pacific Urology and sees patients at offices in Concord, Walnut Creek, and Brentwood. For more information, call 925-9377740 or visit www.pacific-urology.com.

Little Known Secret Benefits from Psychosocial Support

BY JEWEL JOHL, MD

It is hard to describe the physical and emotional stress people feel when dealing with cancer. Whether it is a patient, spouse, family member, or friend, everyone can benefit from psychosocial support, but not everyone has the resources to pay for this valuable service. I would like to tell you about an invaluable resource called Cancer Support Community.

For over 10 years, my colleagues and I have referred our patients to Cancer Support Community in Walnut Creek. It provides comprehensive integrative care for people with cancer, their families, and caregivers. Services are provided free of charge and include counseling, support groups, nutrition, and exercise and patient education programs. These programs enable cancer patients to achieve the highest possible quality of life. All programs and services are evidence-based to positively impact cancer treatment outcomes and/or immune system functioning, and all are delivered by professionals who are licensed or certified in their area of expertise. The main center is in Walnut Creek, but local medical centers and several other community locations

throughout the Bay Area provide services as well. It is the only organization of its kind in Northern California. As an affiliate of the international Cancer Support Community organization, it is structured to be an independent, nonprofit corporation; so all funds raised are used to underwrite programs and services in our local community.

The late Ted Kennedy stated, “As a cancer survivor, I understand the emotional and social impact of this disease.

So does Cancer Support Community. The organization’s work is critical as it helps optimize patient care by providing essential but often overlooked services that complete the cancer care plan.” Together we can help make sure that everyone impacted by cancer knows this resource is available at no charge. Please share this article with someone you know whose life has been affected by cancer.

Dr. Johl serves on the Board of Directors of Cancer Support Community in Walnut Creek. He is a Board Certified Medical Oncologist and Hematologist with Diablo Valley Oncology & Hematology Medical Group. His practice has offices in Walnut Creek, Pleasant Hill, Brentwood, and San Ramon and can be reached at 925-6775041. The Cancer Support Community can be reached at 925-933-0107 or www. cancersupport.net.

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February 2016

Congratulations

to our Chamber Members who were Winners and Finalists in the recent Community Focus “Readers’ Local Favorites” contest!

Presents

Pleasant Hill State of the City

Barton Chiropractic • Big O Tires Cantrell’s Computer Sales & Service • Chateaus Dallimonti’s Italian Restaurant • Deja Vu Boutique Grocery Outlet • Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital Jack's Restaurant and Bar • Kinder’s Meats & BBQ Kobe Japan • Martin Orthodontics - Dr. Jennifer Martin, DDS Matt Rinn, State Farm Insurance • Payless Painting PH Coin and Jewelry Exchange Pleasant Hill Rec and Park Senior Services RE/MAX Today, The Flaskerud Team Senior Helpers • SkinScience Med Spa • Slow Hand BBQ Susan Wood Photography • Total Property Solutions Wence's Restaurant • Yalla Mediterranean • Zachary’s Pizza

MAYOR’S BREAKFAST Friday, February 19, 2016 • 7:30am - 9:00am The Chateau Room Pleasant Hill Senior Center

BUSINESS RUNWAY 2016

Tickets On Sale!

Wednesday, February 24th • 8-10am JFK University • 100 Ellinwood Way, Pleasant Hill

Featured Speaker Vaneese Johnson

Boldness Coach Small Business Marketing Expert www.pleasanthillchamber.com For more information, contact Pleasant Hill Chamber of Commerce tina@pleasanthillchamber.com or call (925) 687-0700

“ DESIGN BOLD, BIG & BAD Revenue Strategies with Social Media” Chamber Members: $10 before February 22nd $15 thereafter Non-Members: $20 online and at door (if space allows)

Welcome New Members

Sue Noack Mayor

For more information visit www.pleasanthillchamber.com Mayor’s Breakfast Sponsored by

“We have some exciting programs and events this month to help your businesses become more visible!

Our Ribbon Cuttings are great for networking; at the Mayor’s Breakfast you will gain insight about Pleasant Hill; and don’t miss our first Business Runway workshop, for strategies to increase your revenue through social media.

Be sure to visit our website calendar and save the dates!”

Christoph Nauer Coaching Boys & Girls Club of Diablo Valley Perception Real Estate El Tapatio Everlast Construction Lizzy’s Pies IBEW #302 Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Law Offices of Mona M. FosterWhite

Christoph Nauer Tuong Truong Peter Maclennan Ramon Valesco Jelani Tyler Elizabeth Welch Rachel Martinez Francisco Javier Hernandez Mona FosterWhite

(925) 286-1886 (925) 228-3896 (925) 385-8798 (925) 676-2420 (925) 334-7600 (925) 300-6170 (925) 228-2302 (925) 864-9932 (510) 851-2576

Ann Luke President & CEO

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

www.pleasanthillchamber.com

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Business Directory Buck Shot & Any Reason

Local Qualit y You Can Trust!

Pleasant Hill

20% OFF ALL TREE WORK WITH THIS AD

Fun "LIVE" Music from the 50’s thru 80’s For Any Occasion

COLLISION

Collision Repair & Painting • Frame Straightening Insurance Claims • Glass • Customs

Special Shows for Assisted Living, Convalescent Homes & Hospitals

www.PleasantHillCollision.com • email phcollision@aol.com 925-939-1160 • 1581 Oak Park Boulevard • Pleasant Hill

Contact Buck• 925-787-6149 www.buckshotozoneband.com

ADVERTISE • Reach over 40,000 local customers!

• Largest circulation of any local paper!

• Get more for your advertising dollar!

BUSINESS SERVICE DIRECTORY AD 925.335.NEWS • www.ourcommunityfocus.com

ES FRE TIM E AT ES

• TRIMMING EXPERTS • STUMP REMOVAL

• TREE REMOVAL SPECIALIST • FREE WOODCHIP MULCH 40 YEARS EXPERIENCE

cwtreeservice.com

925.229.4999

Lic. #724531 • Insured PL & PD worker’s comp.

LEADING EDGE

PEST MANAGEMENT, INC. TERMITE SPECIALISTS Inspections, Eco-Friendly Treatments & Professional Repairs

800-471-5555

WWW.LEADINGEDGEPM.COM

Lic.#PR6202

Sell Your Home For 4% You can pay less and net more. We’re a full-service real estate brokerage charging less and our sellers are netting more. Why list with anyone but us?

If you’re planning on selling your home please call us to learn more.

Pacific Residential Realty Real Estate Done Differently.

925-216-8046 CaBre# 01245396

Advertisers Agent 2000, Derek Knapp Artcelerator Bay Area Festivals Cantrell’s Computer Sales & Service Carlton Senior Living Citrus Salon, St. Baldrick’s Cold Stone Creamery Cristina Candelori, J. Rockliff Realtors Deja Vu Boutique Diablo Valley Oncology East Bay Jewish Film Festival

EcoMulch Ellinwood Exterminators El Tapatio Feng Shui by Maria Flaskerud - RE/MAX Today Forma Gym Foundation for Pleasant Hill Education Hagin’s Automotive Hammer’s Heating and A/C Heritage Soccer Club Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital Hire My Husband Home Detailers Housekeeping Irvin Deutscher Family YMCA

Jack’s Restaurant & Bar Jennifer L. Martin D.D.S. Kait’s Art. Vintage. Home King’s Cleaning Kobe Japan Law Offices of Daniel L. DuRee Law Offices of Lauren Smykowski Les Schwab Tires Linda J. Weihofen Martinez Auto Body Matt Rinn – State Farm Insurance Maureen Ingalls - RE/MAX Accord Moulding Company Pacific Urology

Home Detailers Housekeeping Let the work speak for itself!

Deep Cleaning - Everytime • Dust Door Frames / Baseboards • Clean Fireplace • Complete Dusting Rotate Couch & Chair Cushions • Move Furniture • Hardwood Floors • Vacuum Furniture (Spot) Wash Walls • Oil Wood (Kitchen Cabinets, Baseboards, etc.)

CALL TODAY FOR YOUR FREE ESTIMATE - 925-689-9823 34

february 2016 • ourcommunityfocus.com

Parkway Smiles Dental Pleasant Hill Chamber of Commerce Pleasant Hill Rec & Park RC Sausedo Construction Samuels Construction Senior Helpers Shell Western States Credit Union Susan Wood Photography Trio Skincare Inc. Vino Cruising Waters Moving and Storage Wence’s Restaurant WiseGirl Ristorante Italiano & Cocktails

CLEANING SPECIAL

$50 OFF On First Detailed Cleaning For New Clients Only SATISFACTION GUARANTEED! BONDED

EXPIRES 1/30/16

Make Some Plans ongoing

february 2

february 14

february 23

Buchanan Fields Golf Club

Pleasant Hill Garden Study Club

You Can’t Take It With You

A Taste of Bordeaux

This gregarious NCGA member club is looking for men and women at all playing levels to join their group. The club has three standing tee times each week. Visit www. buchananfieldsgolfclub.com or contact 2016 president Fred Arras, 559.709.8256.

Stan Morgan presents: Irises. Guests are welcome and admission is free. 7pm at Pleasant Hill Community Center, 320 Civic Drive, PH. 925.323.9314, or www.phgsc.com.

Onstage Theatre presents this Pulitzer Prize winning American classic comedy. Martinez Campbell Theatre, 636 Ward Street, Mtz. Visit Onstagetheatre.homestead.com for show times and ticket prices, or call 925.518.3277.

Join VinoCruising and Wence’s Restaurant for an informational evening about an AmaWaterways Cruise (10/28/16-11/4/16) on which Chef Gerardo Wence will host a group. 5:30pm at Wence’s Restaurant, 1922 Oak Park Blvd., Pleasant Hill. RSVP 925.399.4269.

february

february 6

february 14 & 28

february 25

Spring CERT Classes Registration

Bag of Books Sale

Backyard Chickens

Fill a grocery sack with gently used books (great gifts for your literary minded Valentine) for only $5. 10am-4pm, lower level of the Martinez Library, 740 Court Street. 925.229.1959.

Join Lafayette resident Papa John Kiefer for free “How to Raise Your Own Chickens” workshops. Topics include raising young chicks, laying hen maintenance, and sustainable coop construction. Sundays, 1-3:30pm, in Lafayette. Reservations required. Contact jhkiefer@comcast.net.

Pleasant Hill Historical Society

february

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february 27

From the Ground Up

Road Map to the Night Sky

Sons In Retirement

Rain Barrels

SIR Branch 116 monthly luncheon begins at 11am, $15. Speaker SIR Joel White, physician, explores the concept of shared decisionmaking in medicine. WC Elks Lodge, 1475 Creekside Dr. Call 925-322-1160, www.

Branch116.org.

Installing a Home Rainwater Catchment System, 10am-2pm, at a private home in Walnut Creek; sliding scale $35-$100.

Register at sustainablecoco.org/workshops.

Lunch provided.

Martinez CERT Basic Training: www.martinezcert.org; Pleasant Hill CERT Training: www.pleasanthillcert.com; Walnut Creek CERT Training: www.walnut-creek.org/CERT

The Gardens at Heather Farm’s Adult Education series continues with classes beginning Feb. 6 - Mar. 4. Register at www. gardenshf.org, or call 925.947.1678 for more information. Classes typically range from $15 to $30.

Join National Park Service rangers for a stargazing adventure at the John Muir National Historic Site in Martinez. This free, 90-minute program begins at 6:15pm inside the park, 4202 Alhambra Ave. www.nps.gov/ jomu or 925.228.8860.

Monthly meetings are the 4th Thursday of each month, 7pm. We encourage people, especially youth, to take part in events that heighten awareness of the city’s past and promote preservation for future generations.

Rodgers Ranch, 315 Cortsen Rd.

february

february 9

february 20

now - february 29

Healthy Gardening

Bounty from your Garden

Art Beat in Downtown Martinez

Summer School for the Arts

Fruit Trees 101 workshop, 6:30-8:30pm, Rodgers Ranch Heritage Center, 315 Cortsen Rd., PH; $20, register at sustainablecoco. org/workshops.

New monthly event brings artists and community together. Come tour businesses hosting art from local featured artists in the 500-600 blocks of Main St. and the 600-700 blocks of Ward St., beginning at 6pm. Visit artcelerator.mtz.

Apply for the 30th session of the Calif.

State Summer School for the Arts (CSSSA).

Seeking teen artists, writers and performers for July 9-Aug. 5. Financial aid available.

Learn more at www.CSSSA.ca.gov.

Application deadline is February 29.

Gardening in Harmony with Nature workshop series, Saturdays, 10am-noon, Rodgers Ranch, 315 Cortsen Rd., Pleasant Hill, 2/6, 2/13, 2/20 & 2/27; $35/class. For more info and to register: sustainablecoco. org/permaculture_series.

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february 21

Valley Stitchers

Meet the Candidates

Valley Stitchers & Fiber Artists Guild general meeting. Doors open at 9:30am, meeting begins at 10am. Bay Area artist Marie Bergstedt is the guest speaker. Faith Lutheran Church, 50 Woodsworth Lane, Pleasant Hill. Visitors always welcome. $5/ person.

Democratic candidates from the 14th and 16th Assembly districts discuss their platforms and answer questions. Sponsored by the Diablo Valley Democratic Club, 7pm, Ygnacio Valley Library, 2661 Oak Grove Rd, WC. Information: 925.946.0469 or www.dvdems. org.

Contra Costa Camp & School Fair 11am-2pm, free. Booths for camps, schools, preschool, daycare, STEM & STEAM programs, sports, enrichment, performing arts, scouts and family vacations. Acalanes High School, 1200 Pleasant Hill Rd., Lafayette. www.

ContraCostaCampFair.com.

HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY

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ENJOY INTERNATIONAL FILMS IN CONTRA COSTA Award-winning films from Bulgaria, Canada, England, France, Germany, Israel, Morocco, New Zealand, Poland and Spain, including: LABYRINTH OF LIES: This critically acclaimed drama is Germany’s submission for an Oscar for Best Foreign Film.

MARCH 5–13 CENTURY 16 THEATRES, PLEASANT HILL

SERIAL BAD WEDDINGS: A riotous French blockbuster about love, marriage and in-laws.

DIRTY WOLVES: A stirring Spanish thriller about two heroic women who fought against the Nazis.

Our corporate sponsors include: RINA Accountancy Destination Wealth Management DIABLO Magazine City National Bank Davidson & Licht Aaron Metals Kabab-Burger Diablo Valley Oncology Buttercup Grill & Bar Ayala’s Skin Care AA All Metals Recycling Martha Ann Wishnev/Realtor Krasna Financial Group

PHOENIX: One of the best films of 2015, this German film has been compared to Hitchcock’s classic Vertigo.

5 TO 7: From America comes this romantic coming-of-age story. Co-starring Glenn Close and Frank Langella.

REMEMBER: Christopher Plummer stars in this gripping Canadian drama that you will remember long after the credits roll.

F O R O U R C O M P L E T E L IN E U P O R T O P URCH A SE T ICK E T S ONL INE :

EASTBAYJEWISHFILM.ORG

OR CALL 925.240.3053 36

february 2016 • ourcommunityfocus.com