• AUGUST 2012
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COMMUNIT Y FOCUS
ANNIVERSARY
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August 2012
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August 2012
JULIE SAYS
Love Poems for the Unloved
By Julie Ross It happens that September 1st is In Turkey vultures have a most apternational Vulture Awareness Day (I pealing expression on their red, know, it’s exhausting keeping up with pointy-beaked faces. You just need to all these occasions). Diane suggestget up close to one to appreciate it. ed that might be a good day to hold No one understands this better a book signing at Lindsay Wildlife than Diane Lang, an Alamo resident Museum. Visit Diane at the museum, who leads children’s programs at three 1931 First Avenue in Walnut Creek, wildlife centers in California, includfrom 11am until 1pm on Saturday, ing the Lindsay Wildlife Museum in September 1st. Richard is scheduled Walnut Creek. I am lucky to know her to make a special appearance as well. as a fellow museum docent. I wouldn’t miss this for the world, so Diane has developed a close perI hope to see you there! Books will be sonal relationship with Richard, the available for sale at the event. 38-year-old turkey vulture you can see in her aviary If you can’t make the September 1st book sign(yes, Richard is a female; no one knew until she laid ing, you can purchase Diane and Lauren’s book at the her first egg years ago) outside the front entrance of Lindsay Wildlife Museum store, at some local bookthe museum. stores and online at Amazon.com. Diane doesn’t mind that turkey vultures eat car It’s a fun and educationrion, preferably food that has been dead for a day al book – the perfect backor two. To her, that is not gross; just interesting. She Come to-school read. And you believes children have every reason to love creatures be our friend. can visit Richard and other that not only eat dead things, but also those that the community focus underappreciated species stink, slither and sting. whenever Lindsay Wild And that brings us to the publication of Diane’s life Museum is open. Go first children’s book, “Vulture Verses, Love Poems to www.wildlife-museum. for the Unloved,” which features absolutely wonderorg for hours and admission ful illustrations by artist Lauren Gallegos. Through fees. rhymes and the engaging artwork, the book leads You can reach Julie at readers to appreciate the animals that do so much julieakross@comcast.net good yet don’t get enough love.
Independent & Locally Owned
PUBLISHERS Becky Coburn, Jennifer Neys, Elena Hutslar info@ourcommunityfocus.com A Monthly Publication delivered to over 40,000 Homes and Businesses in Pleasant Hill, Martinez, Pacheco, Lafayette and Walnut Creek
ADVERTISING advertising@ourcommunityfocus.com SPORTS EDITOR Chuck Nan martinezsportsed@aol.com GRAPHIC DESIGN Trish Heaney, Debra Wilson COPY EDITOR Alison Clary
View the Focus online: www.ourcommunityfocus.com
It’s Our Anniversary
CONTACT INFORMATION:
We would like to acknowledge and thank our talented and hard-working writers and photographers who contribute to our publication every month. Thank you to Alison Clary, our copy editor who wears many hats and displays a wide range of skills. Our gratitude goes to Trish Heaney, our graphic designer extraordinaire who always goes above and beyond with a smile.
Content & General Inquiries:
Along with adding newspaper racks in a variety of public locations this year, the Focus has gone full color! Thank you for reading, submitting stories, sharing comments online, writing letters, joining us on Facebook and continuing to make us aware of how unique, involved and eclectic our community truly is. Finally, a sincere thanks to our advertisers for their continued support. We would not be celebrating the beginning of our 4th year in publication without you!
• Hometown Olympian....................................page 7 • Chamber of Commerce Activities............. page 10 • 4th of July Parade Winners......................... page 13 • Season Ticket................................................ page 17
Community Calendar:
calendar@ourcommunityfocus.com info@ourcommunityfocus.com
6680 Alhambra Ave. Box #132 Martinez, CA 94553 Phone: (925) 335 - NEWS (6397)
MISSION STATEMENT The Community Focus is a free, independent, monthly publication dedicated to highlighting the vibrancy of the local businesses and residents while strengthening and building connections within our community.
• National Soccer Teams.....................................page 19 • Keep Exploring..................................................page 21 • Local Live Music............................................... page 24 • Community Calendar...................................... page 29
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August 2012
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Operation Welcome Home By Helena Vardas On July 7 a surprise welcome home celebration was held for Martinez hometown Marine, USMC LCpl. Matthew J. Walsh, a 2009 Alhambra High graduate. The event was organized by the Diablo Valley Flag Brigade, a volunteer organization that ensures every service member returning home to the San Francisco Bay Area receives honors and recognition. Walsh was escorted by the Warrior Watch Riders and was surprised to see his home draped with American flags and a large crowd of family, friends and neighbors as well as members of various veteran support organizations. Walsh joined the Marine Corps on Feb. 14, 2011, and began boot camp at Marine Corps Recruit Depot (MCRD), San Diego. Upon graduation three months later, he received a meritorious promotion to Private First Class (PFC) and also received an award for the Platoon High PFT - Physical Excellence Award, denoting that he was the most physically fit Marine in his company. On May 25 PFC Walsh started his training with the School of Infantry West at Camp Pendelton, Ca. Two months later PFC Walsh graduated and received the Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) of an Anti-Tank Guided Missileman (0352), commonly referred to as a TOW gunner. He received the Physical Excellence Award, and was again meritoriously promoted to Lance Corporal graduating at the top of his section at the School of Infantry. He received orders to report to 1st
Family, friends and neighbors gather to welcome Walsh home.
Tank Battalion, stationed at the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center (MCAGCC) in Twentynine Palms, Ca. After four months of training in Twentynine Palms and in Los Angeles with the L.A. Swat Team, LCpl. Walsh was assigned to an NTM, a training and advising team set to deploy to northern Afghanistan. The team deployed in November 2011 and served seven months in Kabul, Afghanistan. LCpl. Walsh was awarded the Certificate of Commendation for his actions throughout the deployment. Diablo Valley Flag Brigade, a tribute organization, began the tradition
of honoring returning service members in 2005 by organizing “Operation Welcome Home.” This celebration is intended to show support and offer gratitude for military members’ service to our country. Members of the city government, police, fire, VSO’s such as Blue Star Moms, VFW posts, American Legion members, military families, community groups, family members and neighbors are all invited. Diablo
Valley Flag Brigade works with motorcycle groups like the Warrior Watch Riders to escort the service member home to the surprise “Welcome Home.” The Brigade has honored hundreds of service members in the Bay Area since its inception and relies solely on donations. If interested in offering support, or to learn more about the organization, please visit: diablovalleyflagbrigade.com.
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Walsh being escorted home by the Warrior Watch Riders.
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August 2012
Read My Mind Calico Joe by John Grisham Most of us know John Grisham for his courtroom thrillers like The Firm and other worldwide bestsellers and Hollywood blockbusters. Grisham, who practiced law before becoming a full-time author, was also an accomplished athlete and dreamed of playing professional baseball while growing up in rural Arkansas. His love and enthusiasm for baseball shines in his latest bestseller, Calico Joe, a delightful little book (only 198 pages) about a rookie baseball player who becomes a national sensation in 1973. So you might think that this is a book about sports. Well, it is, but it’s much more. It’s a story about a son coming to grips with his relationship with his estranged father. It’s also a book about responsibility and forgiveness. Our narrator, Paul Tracey, reflects on the summer of 1973 when he was an 11-year-old, living and breathing baseball.
Book Reviews by Michael G. Harris, OD He becomes enamored with This story about a boy the rookie first baseman for the and his new sports’ hero beChicago Cubs named Joe Cascomes much more when the tle. Because Joe comes from lives of Paul, Joe, and Warren the Arkansas hamlet of Calico become fatefully intertwined Rock, the press immediately one warm summer evening in dubs him “Calico Joe.” August. In his very first game, Joe As an adult, Paul tries accomplishes something no to deal with his feelings towards other rookie ever has. He hits his father when he learns that three home runs in his first three at-bats. Warren has cancer and only months to In his next game, Joe sets numerous unbe- live. Can Paul convince his father to face lievable rookie records. Paul is mesmerized his past and do the right thing for once? by Joe’s accomplishments and follows his Will Paul finally meet his boyhood hero, every at-bat, much to the chagrin of his fa- Calico Joe, and come to grips with his ther Warren, a veteran pitcher for the rival own demons? New York Mets. Grisham has the amazing ability to grab the reader’s attention in the first few Paul’s relationship with his father pages and never let go. He is a masterful has always been strained. Warren is an storyteller who paints vivid pictures of his alcoholic who takes his anger out on his characters. You really care about these wife and kids, especially Paul. Warren Tracey is not a nice man. His nasty repu- people, likable or not, and what happens to them. tation among his fellow ballplayers is well-deserved. If you are a baseball fan, you’ll recog-
Real Estate Update
Maximizing Your Sales Price in a Seller’s Market
As we head into the heart of summer, our local real estate market continues to sit squarely in favor of sellers. As I write this, I’ve just finished hosting an open house at a modest Pleasant Hill home that had nearly 100 visitors over a 3-hour period. On several occasions, guests literally had to wait in the dining room to enter the moderately sized kitchen because it simply couldn’t hold any more people. But while selling your home has gotten much easier, getting top dollar won’t happen by accident. Here are 4 tips to ensure you get the most out of this hot market: Inspect and Disclose in Advance
Surprises are great for birthdays, but aren’t so good when buying a home. Providing prospective buyers with professional inspection reports and thorough disclosures before they write an offer can greatly increase your home’s appeal. Whether it’s a fixer or a perfect “10”, buyers can confidently move forward with a clear
By Nathan Hitchcock picture of the home’s condition. Not only will there be more interest in your home, the transaction will be much more likely to close successfully and on schedule. Make It Beautiful and Keep It That Way
Expensive remodeling is not required to make your home show its best. Simple things like fresh paint, new carpet, sprucing up the landscape, and most importantly, a deep professional cleaning can do wonders to improve your home’s appeal without breaking the bank. Don’t rest on your laurels once you’re done with the prep though--spend a few minutes each day to make sure things stay beautiful.
Stage It
In all my years in this business, I’ve yet to meet a home, vacant or occupied, that couldn’t benefit from a professional decorator’s touch. In the hotel business, people pay three to four times more to stay at a Marriott than a Motel 6; both offer essentially the same “space” to their patrons, but the difference is the professionally selected and placed furniture, artwork, and accessories. Trust me on this one. Your investment
will be returned three-fold, minimum. Set a Schedule and Be Patient
It’s going to require patience like you’ve never before exercised in your life, but it’s vitally important that you don’t jump on the first offer that comes in the day after your home hits the market. Today’s buyer commonly has a packed schedule and may not be able to view your home right away. To ensure every prospective buyer gets to see your home, make sure it’s available for viewing for at least two full weekends before you accept an offer. How do you do that? Schedule an offer review date and commit to it. Even though they may threaten otherwise, any serious buyer who is interested that first day will still be interested ten days later. In addition to getting a higher price, you’ll likely end up with several backup offers to help keep the winning buyer on their best behavior during escrow. Nathan Hitchcock is the managing broker of Hitchcock Realty, he can be reached at nathan@hitchcockrealty.com or (925) 825-1100.
nize actual players from the 1970’s. But Grisham is so good at what he does that he’s able to blend these real players with fictional ones. Now, I’m a big baseball fan and remember many players from that era. (Our own Oakland A’s were the defending World Series’ champions in 1973.) Grisham’s descriptions of the fictional players are so realistic that I asked myself if they were real players I had forgotten. Their names just sounded too good to be anything but real ballplayers. This enchanting little book teaches valuable lessons about what it really takes to be a true hero, facing one’s responsibilities, mending broken relationships, and the power of forgiveness. The lessons here are for all of us. Don’t wait until it’s too late to ask for forgiveness. And when someone is truly sincere in asking for forgiveness, giving it can benefit everyone involved. Calico Joe is a must read for sports fans, young and old alike, and anyone else who loves a good story well told.
www.ourcommunityfocus.com
August 2012
Hometown Olympian By Chuck Nan Pleasant Hill native Melissa Seidemann is one of 13 players to make the 2012 U.S. Women’s Water Polo team competing at the London Olympics. Seidemann, who plays at Stanford, is one of four East Bay natives to make the team. A 2008 graduate of CPHS, she competed for the water polo team all four years and for three years on the swim team. She was named team MVP in ‘07 and as a senior, was named an NISCA All-American list. As a junior she was selected to Alland helped lead the team to a DFAL title. Seidemann was a member of the gold med- MPSF First Team as she was second on the team with 51 goals, her third straight 50al U.S. Youth National Team at the PanAmerican Junior Games in ‘06. She was the goal season. That team won the NCAA National Championship. This past season, Seleading scorer in the tournament with 20 idemann took a leave of absence from Stangoals. She also represented the USA in Haford to train with the U.S. National Team in waii, New Zealand and Australia. hopes of making the Olympic Team. As a freshman at Stanford in ‘09, she Seidemann will graduate in 2013 with was named to ACWPC All-America First a degree in psychology. Her older sister Team and led the team with 59 goals - the Lauren played water polo at UC Davis and fourth true freshman since 1997 to lead her younger sister Natalie is on the USA the team in goals. In 2010 she led Stanford Water Polo Cadet National Team training in scoring for a second-straight year, firsquad. ing home 54 goals. She was named to All *The U.S. Olympic Women’s Water MPSF Third Team, earned a place on AllPolo team begins their competition on July National Collegiate Championship First 30 against Hungary. Team and a spot on MPSF All-Academic
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Simpson Makes Nationals Memorial Day weekend concluded a four-month selection process for the 14U division of the USA Waterpolo’s Developmental National Team. Over two hundred athletes competed across the nation and twenty-eight were selected. Five athletes from the local water polo club, 680 Water Polo, were chosen. Four of these athletes are girls who will all be attending San Ramon Valley High School in the fall: Claire Therien, Melyssa Moore, Sammi Tovani and Lexi Liebowitz. The fifth player selected, Jake Simpson, is a Walnut Creek native and recent graduate from Pleasant Hill Middle School. Jake has been part of the 680 Water Polo Club since 4th grade. The Simpsons were friends with one of the founders of the club who suggested Jake should explore the sport. Jake agreed, saying, “I wanted to try it because one of the fastest kids on my swim team played and it looked fun!” Since then he has traveled to Michigan, Texas, Indiana, San Diego and Orange County. “Most major tournaments are in Southern California,” Jake said. “This year the Junior Olympics will be held at Stanford the
end of July, so it will be nice to be close to home.” For some athletes, selection to the National team is considered a steppingstone along the path to becoming a member of the USA Olympic Water Polo Team. At 14, Simpson dedicates two hours a day, four days a week to training and could well be one to watch. For now, it’s clear that he is enjoying the moment. When asked what he loves about water polo, Jake’s point was clear, “It’s a fast-paced, adrenaline-rushing sport!”
Join us at Pleasant Hill’s 8th ANNUAL...
Community Service Day! Saturday September 22, 2012 7:30am Churches, schools, neighborhoods, businesses...find a project and register it on the city website at www.pleasant-hill.net/CSD Volunteers...sign up online at www.pleasant-hill.net/CSD to work. Open to all ages—families and children welcome! FREE kick-off breakfast by the PH Lions beginning at 7:30am at PH Park, Gregory Ln (first 500 receive a FREE T-shirt). Volunteers receive snacks and then disperse to their designated projects! PLUS...bring items of non-perishable food for the barrels of the Food Bank of Contra Costa & Solano
Make a difference! Register your project or volunteer at
City of Pleasant Hill
SD www.pleasant-hill.net/C
For more information, call 671-5229 or email
l.ca.us
mnelis@.ci.pleasant-hil
Organized by Pleasant Hill Civic Action Commission and supported by local businesses
City of Pleasant Hill Community Service Day
www.ourcommunityfocus.com
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August 2012
PLEASANT HILL CITY BUZZ Showcasing people, places and events in Pleasant Hill
The City Channel has been broadcasting since early 2011 highlighting many of the city’s hometown happenings and special events. The Channel airs on Comcast Channel 28, U-Verse Channel 99 and Astound Channel 29. The goal of the City Channel is to inform residents, entertain viewers, promote local businesses and restaurants, and spotlight events and organizations that make our city great. The City Channel produces a variety of programming including City Council and Planning Commission meetings, the popular Summer Concerts by the Lake at City Hall, Backstage, featuring
Pleasant Hill’s City Channel Theater Insights at Diablo Valley College giving viewers an inside look at DVC productions, as well as exciting events around town like the 4th of July Parade and Party at Pleasant Hill Park. Inside Pleasant Hill is a highly produced, 30-minute news magazine show featuring three segments: Uptown/Downtown, spotlighting local hot spots; Dish, highlighting popular eateries; and Hometown Heroes, profiling eve-
City News Sunvalley Mall Renovations The Taubman Company (property owner of Sunvalley Mall) has begun renovating the mall complex parking lot located in the City of Concord. The renovations are focused on improving the landscaping around the buildings, signage and enhancing the entries into the shopping center. The project also intends to enhance the three entries along Contra Costa Boulevard, which are located within the City of Pleasant Hill. The proposed entry enhancements include new Sour Gum trees along Contra Costa Boulevard, new ADA facilities and a decorative crosswalk at Viking Drive. Construction will require a lane closure and routing of pedestrian traffic around the construction area as needed.
Property at Taylor and Contra Costa Boulevard City staff met with the owner and his staff on-site recently to discuss the status of the former Blondie’s property. Re-landscaping of the site is expected to begin shortly and a professional landscape firm will be involved. The existing landscape will be maintained on a more frequent basis until the re-landscaping is complete and the contents of the existing buildings removed. A sign permit application will be submitted soon for permanent signage for the building.
City Calendar of Events Architectural Review Commission August 2, 16 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane Small Community Room, 5:00pm Contact: 671-5209
Education Commission August 22 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane Small Community Room, 7:00pm Contact: 671-5229
City Council August 6, 20 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane Council Chambers, 7:30pm Contact: 671-5229
Planning Commission August 14, 28 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane Council Chambers, 7:30pm Contact: 671-5209
Civic Action Commission August 1 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane Small Community Room, 6:30pm Contact: 671-5229
Zoning Administrator August 9, 23 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane Public Works Conference Room, 5:00pm Contact: 671-5209
For Confirmation Visit: www.ci.pleasant-hill.ca.us
ryday heroes. The Uptown/Downtown PH segment has showcased local businesses, including Pleasant Hill Market, Studio A, and Paul Mitchell - The School East Bay. The Dish segment has highlighted a plethora of great restaurants, including Jack’s, Back Forty Texas BBQ and Dallimonti’s. Hometown Heroes has profiled many wonderful volunteers who make our community strong, including Jim Nunes, Norma and Don Flaskerud and Jim Bonato. The City Channel is made possible through Section 611 of the Communications Act, whereby “local franchising authorities may require local cable operators to set aside channels for public,
educational or governmental (‘PEG’) use.” Pleasant Hill shares the channel with the cities of Martinez and Clayton, and the channel provides equal airtime to all three cities. Content is produced by professional broadcasters who volunteer their time for the City. Local news reporter John Sasaki with KTVU Channel 2 and CBS 5 reporter and anchor Ann Notarangelo are our pro bono hosts for Inside Pleasant Hill. The City Channel logo was created by volunteer graphic designer Trish Heaney. Former Emmyaward winning producer May Hanecak is the content developer and show producer, again pro bono. Larry Hunt is the Director of Photography and Editor. Past City Channel shows are available online at http://vimeo.com/citychannelph/videos. For more information on the City Channel, contact mnelis@ci.pleasant-hill.ca.us.
Local Election News Election Schedule for City Councilmembers, City Treasurer and City Clerk
On November 6, Pleasant Hill voters will elect three councilmembers, one city clerk and one city treasurer. The nomination period began on Monday, July 16 and will end at 5pm on Friday, August 10. However, if one of the incumbent officeholders does not file by the August 10 deadline, the nomination period for that vacancy will be extended (for any qualified person, other than the incumbent) until 5pm on Wednesday, August 15. According to Linda Stehr, Assistant to the City Manager, “Since no one has filed their nomination documents, there are no official candidates to date. However, six individuals have picked up nomination papers for City Council.” They are: Jim Bonato, Pleasant Hill Planning Commissioner and President
of the Fourth of July Commission, Jeremy Cloward, Matthew Rinn, Chamber of Commerce President, David Durant, current City Council member seeking reelection, Tim Flaherty, Pleasant Hill Planning Commissioner and Paul Bittner. Current City Councilmember, John Hanecak will not be seeking reelection. “Incumbent Mark Celio also has taken out papers to run for City Treasurer again. No one has picked up papers for the City Clerk position,” continued Stehr. Nomination papers must be obtained from the city clerk’s office during the nomination period. Candidates must be registered voters of Pleasant Hill at the time the nomination paper is issued. For election details, candidates are invited to contact the city clerk’s office at 671-5284 or email lstehr@ci.pleasant-hill.ca.us.
August 2012
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Mayor’s Message Did you know that even if you have a Martinez mail address you may not necessarily live in the incorporated city limits of Martinez? A few years ago when I was running for Mayor, I received a phone call from a lady who had just received her sample ballot and noticed that there was no mention of the mayor or city council race. She thought that either the elections department or the printer had made an error and forgot to include the mayor and city council race on a batch of ballots. She was very upset and wanted me to call the appropriate authorities to have this mistake corrected. When I asked where she lived, she answered that she lived on Shell Avenue near Pacheco Boulevard. You can imagine her shock when I told her that she did not live in the city limits of Martinez and therefore could not vote in the mayor or city council election. She explained to me that she grew up in Martinez, graduated from Alhambra High School, works in Martinez and considers herself a Martizian. How could she be considered an outsider? How could she not participate in a local election that will likely have an impact on her life and the life of her family? After all, her friend across the street received a ballot that included the
Martinez city races and that just was not fair. I have to agree that it does not seem to make any sense that parts of the Martinez community are not legally a part of Martinez and cannot participate in important policy decisions that will shape the future of the entire community. This is the main reason that I am an advocate of the annexation of all areas inside the sphere of influence (SOI) of the City of Martinez. For the last few years the city has been in the process of annexation, starting with the area North of Highway 4 and West of I-680. This area is known as North Pacheco and is an area with both new and older single family homes and commercial businesses. The residents of the area will be voting in August as to whether they wish to become part of the incorporated area of Martinez. Annexing into the city has many
City Calendar of Events City Council Meeting Summer Recess No Meetings in August Next meeting on Sept. 5
Planning Commission Meeting August 14, 28 7pm-11pm Contact: 925-372-3500
Design Review Meeting August 8, 22 3pm-5pm Contact: 925-372-3500
Waterfront Alternative Access Workshop II August 1 6pm-8pm Council Chambers Contact: 925-372-3500
Park, Recreation, Marina & Cultural Commission August 21 7pm-11pm Contact: 925-372-3500
Zoning Administrator Meeting August 1, 15 3pm-5pm Contact: 925-372-3500
All City Meetings at City Hall, 525 Henrietta Street, Unless Otherwise Indicated For Confirmation Visit: www.cityofmartinez.org
benefits for the residents of North Pacheco. Their garbage rates will decline and the collection of their recyclables will be on a weekly rather than a biweekly basis. The special policy assessment (P-6) that they pay will be eliminated, saving many homeowners anywhere from $200 to $400 a year. Our
MARTINEZ CITY BUZZ
county assessor has determined that property values will increase by 5% immediately. Emergency response time will be faster with the Martinez Policy than with the Sheriff. I look forward to welcoming the citizens of North Pacheco into the City of Martinez.
Get Involved The City of Martinez encourages people to serve in an advisory capacity on one of the City’s various committees, commissions or as a representative on an outside agency. The City of Martinez is now accepting applications for: Design Review Committee: two vacancies - two year term; meet second and fourth Wednesdays of every month at 4pm; member can be a Martinez resident or qualified professional (architect, landscape architect or possess a certificate from the CA Nurserymen’s Association) familiar with the City. Outside Agency(s): Contra Costa County Library Commission (City representative); one vacancy, alternate - two year term. Meets quarterly at 7:00pm at the Pleasant Hill Library, 1750 Oak Park Blvd. in Pleasant Hill. Central Contra Costa Transit Authority Citizens Advisory Committee and Accessible Services Committee - (City representative); one vacancy. Meets second Friday of every other month at 9:30am, 2477 Arnold Industrial Way in Concord. For further information or to obtain an application, contact the City Clerk’s Office, 525 Henrietta Street in Martinez or call (925) 372-3512; applications may be found on the City’s website at cityofmartinez.org. Martinez City Elections 2012 Elections for the City Offices of two Council Members, City Clerk and City Treasurer will be held on November 6, 2012. Councilwoman Janet Kennedy will not seek re-election leaving her position open along with that of Councilman Mark Ross, who’s term expires in November. Ross has indicated he will seek re-election. Rachel Ford, Planning Commission Chair will be running for City Council. Ford has filed papers at City Hall. Dylan Radke, Chair of the Parks, Recreation, Marina and Cultural Commission has indicated he will run for city council as well. In addition, papers were taken but have not been filed by Michael Alford. City Treasurer, Carolyn Robinson is seeking re-election and has taken papers. No other candidates have filed yet for this position. Papers have been taken by Richard G. Hernandez and Evelyn J. Centeno for City Clerk. The position is currently held by Gary Hernandez, who’s term expires in November. Anyone wanting to run in these elections must file candidate papers by August 10 with the City Clerk in the case of the council and other city offices, and with the County Elections Division for other races. In all cases, where an incumbent does not file for re-election by August10, filing is extended to other candidates for another five days. Nomination petitions may be picked up at the City Clerk’s Office in City Hall. Voter registration information/applications may be obtained at www.cocovote.us. Education News The Mt. Diablo Unified School District incumbents Gary Eberhart and Sherry Whitmarsh are up for re-election. The District covers Concord, Pleasant Hill, Clayton; portions of Walnut Creek and Martinez, unincorporated areas, including Lafayette, Pacheco, and Bay Point. In the Martinez Unified School District, incumbents John Fuller, Kathi McLaughlin and Denise Elsken are up for re-election. The district includes most of the city of Martinez and nearby unincorporated areas.
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PLEASANT HILL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
MARTINEZ CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Please verify schedule at www.martinezchamber.com • 925-228-2345
Please verify schedule at www.pleasanthillchamber.com • 925-687-0700
8/3 – Wine Walk /Plaza Concerts, Downtown Pleasant Hill, $20 includes wine glass, passport & hors d’oeuvres. Enjoy music by Rebel Yell. Tickets available at http:// Augustwinewalk.eventbrite.com/ or (925) 687-0700, or in front of Pasta Pomodoro at the event. 5:30pm-8pm. 8/7 – Leadership Lunch – Back 40 Texas BBQ, 100 Coggins Dr., Pleasant Hill, 11:45pm - 1pm 8/10 - Ambassador Meeting, Pleasant Hill City Hall, 8am - 9am 8/16 – Board of Directors Meeting, PH City Hall, 7:45am 8/24 (Friday) August Mixer, Pleasant Hill Community Pool in Pleasant Hill Park – Celebrating the PH Community Foundation’s 25 years of giving back. 5:30 – 7:30pm 8/27 – Green Committee, Back Forty Texas BBQ, 100 Coggins Dr., Pleasant Hill, 4pm - 5pm
power of LinkedIn. Get in early as this seminar will fill up! Discover how to use some of the most effective ways to use LinkedIn to get more business and referrals from your clients. At this seminar you will learn: • Why LinkedIn is the most powerful social network for professionals and business owners • How to build a huge email list on LinkedIn • Why you should focus more energy on LinkedIn over Facebook • How to use LinkedIn to promote your events including promotions, seminars and webinars • How to drive more traffic to your website or blog • How to generate more sales on autopilot • How to double conversions on LinkedIn Ads • How to use this “secret network” to connect with key decision makers. Log on to http://HowToMasterLinkedIn. eventbrite.com/ for more information or to RSVP. Presented by Pete Sabine of Main Street Marketing (925) 297-5335.
August 2012
Ambassador Meeting – If interested in attending, contact Reba at (925) 228-2345 or email Reba@martinezchamber.com 8/9 - Chamber Mixer - Thursday, 5:30 7pm. Hanses Chiropractic, 841 Arnold Dr., Ste. D, Martinez. Great networking, food, fun and raffle prizes (bring a raffle prize and have your business announced!).
Thursday, 12pm -1pm. Doors open at 11:30am. John Muir Best Western Inn, 445 Muir Station Rd. $10 to Chamber Members; Non-Members $20. Bag lunch included. RSVP to the Chamber at (925) 228-2345 or email Reba@martinezchamber.com. CALENDAR SPONSORED BY
8/10 - Universal Sports Academy Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting - Friday, 4pm. Universal Sports Academy, 330 Ferry St., Martinez (behind the historical train near the Amtrak Station). Join us in welcoming our new member and addition to the community! 8/16 - Educational Series - Marketing Seminar. Presented by Fadhila Holman,
Ribbon Cutting
CALENDAR SPONSORED BY
New to You Dance
8/27 – Government Affairs Committee, Back Forty Texas BBQ, 100 Coggins Dr., Pleasant Hill, 4:30pm - 6pm 9/12 - Internet Marketing Workshop, JFK University, 100 Ellinwood Way, Room S 104, Pleasant Hill 11:45am to 2pm “How to Build Your LinkedIn Foundation” - Join us at this seminar to learn how you can instantly start generating more traffic, leads and sales using the
Ribbon Cutting Photo by RichardCash.com
Play It Again Sports has moved to a new location at 1150 Contra Costa Blvd. in Concord, just south of the Sunvalley Mall. The new Play It Again Sports is a family owned and operated business dedicated to supplying the community with the highest quality product and expert knowledge in sports or exercise gear selection. “We actually use the products we sell and can speak through experience on what works and what doesn’t. We know and love sports and are happy to assist you in doing the same”, said owner Alex Bordak. Sell or trade in your used equipment to buy new or used at a discount, or buy used to save up to 50-70%! Stop by the store to see what items they are currently looking for, and bring your gently used equipment in for evaluation. Call the store at (925) 825-3396 for specifics. Play It Again Sports is open daily. Visit them on the web at www.playitagainsportsconcord.com.
2835 Contra Costa Blvd., Suite E | Pleasant Hill, CA
New You Dance Center offers a wide variety of dance styles that are taught in a FUN and learning environment for both boys and girls ages 2½ thru adult, beginner to advanced. The goal of New You Dance Center is that dancers ENJOY dance while learning proper technique and developing confidence, poise, coordination and rhythm. Mr. AJ and the dedicated staff of instructors work hard to provide a quality dance education for all ages. With a variety of classes to choose from, we are sure you’ll be happy learning to dance with us. Visit our website www.newyoudancecenter.org for more information and class schedules or call 925-293-4726. Stop in and check out the new studio at 1424 D Shell Ave, Martinez. You’ll be glad you did!
PLEASANT HILL USE YOUR LOCAL PRINTER
222
Minuteman
Press
PLEASANT HILL
925-256-6444 www.minutemanpressph.com
SUMMER IS IN FULL SWING SWIM TEAM, YMCA, SUMMER CAMPS…. WE ARE YOUR LOCAL PRINTER PROGRAMS INVITES FLYERS T-SHIRTS, HATS, CUPS ETC. ETC. WE PRINT IT ALL Pleasant Hill City Hall Photo by Susan Wood Photography
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August 2012
Page 11
Diablo Symphony Names New Conductor
The Diablo Symphony, the oldest orchestra of professionally trained musicians in Contra Costa County, has a new artistic director-conductor just in time for the symphony’s 50th anniversary. After a year-long screening process, symphony musicians selected Matilda Hofman, 33, a lecturer in the UC Davis music department. Her work as a conductor ranges from opera and symphonic repertoire to contemporary music. She will lead the Diablo Symphony beginning in October when it kicks off its 2012-13 five-concert 50th anniversary season at the Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek. Hofman was chosen from among four other finalists under consideration to replace Joyce Johnson Hamilton, who retired last year after serving as the Diablo Symphony’s artistic director and conductor for 30 years. Hofman becomes the sixth conductor of the Diablo Symphony since its founding in 1962.
A native of Oxford, England, Hofman studied at Cambridge University, the Royal Academy of Music and the Eastman School of Music. She
is married to Christian Baldini, an internationally recognized composer and conductor who leads the UC Davis Symphony Orchestra.
Coming Attractions Poison Apple Productions presents Beauty & the Beast Jr.
Matilda Hofman, new artistic director-conductor for the Diablo Symphony. Photo by Diablo Symphony
In addition to symphony orchestras, Hofman has conducted operas throughout Europe and was assistant conductor at Sacramento Opera. She is a regular guest conductor of the Empyrean Ensemble at UC Davis and the Bay Area’s Left Coast Chamber Ensemble. In 2003 Hofman formed the Bay Area-based Keisler Ensemble, a group of seven musicians. She is the conductor and artistic director.
This “tale as old as time” follows the adventures of Belle, a bright young woman who finds herself imprisoned in the castle of a mysterious beast. With the assistance of the castle’s enchanted staff, a delightful and tender romance develops between these two unlikely friends and Belle soon learns the most important lesson of all — that true beauty comes from within. Tickets on sale at the Lesher Center for the Arts. www.lesherartscenter.org or (925)943Show (7409) Performances are August 2, 3, 4, 10 & 11 at 7:15pm; August 4 & 12 at 2:15 pm. General Admission: $14.75. Youth, Students and Seniors: $11.75, Special preview August 2 at 7:15 pm. For more information about Poison Apple Productions, visit www.poisonappleproduction.com.
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Page 12
August 2012
Local Movie Supports MDUSD
Producer-director Jeff Mosley’s dream of making a movie to help raise money for schools in the Mt. Diablo Unified School District has been realized. After three years in the making, including nine months of editing, the cast and crew screening was held on June 16 at the Brenden Theatres in Concord. Written by Eric Lapp and Keenan Murray, “Chasing Rod-
riguez” is the story of four teenagers who enter a short film contest to win a cash prize and while filming their movie they inadvertently capture a robbery on film. Why did a former stuntman turned producer-director want to help MDUSD? Mosley explains, “My wife and I have two children who attend school in the district. After thirty years
Pleasant Hill Families Host Ukranian Kids
Cara Helberg, Executive Director of Angels’ Haven Outreach, has years of experience and success in changing the lives of hundreds of orphaned children from overseas by connecting them with loving families in the United States. This month Cara has arranged for sixty kids to visit the U.S. with thirty of those being hosted in California. Two boys, Artem and Nikita, ages 11 and 12, and two girls, Oleksandra and Anne, ages 9 and 10, will be hosted in Pleasant Hill by the Spinos and Helberg families, while Angels’ Haven works to introduce the orphans from Ukraine to potential adoptive families. Recently, Cara has been working toward the goal of placing children with special health needs. “This is the first time Ukraine has allowed us to bring HIV kids, and so I am excited to be hosting a little girl with HIV this time,” she said. “I will be focusing on HIV kids a lot because here in the U.S. they
can live a full normal life with the medications we now have. The kids can’t get that chance in Ukraine because of the expense, so we will be working hard to find her a home and I am sure we will be able to do it!” This group of children will be here until the end of August and the host families in Pleasant Hill plan to bring the kids together daily. “There’s plenty of time for people to meet them during their visit,” said Cara. If adoption is an option your family or someone you know has considered, or if you would be interested in hosting a child for a future visit, explore the Angels’ Haven Outreach website at www.angelshaven.org and contact Cara Helberg at adopt@ angelshaven.org, or call: 1-877-378-9781. Angels’ Haven Outreach is a non-profit organization committed to finding adoptive families for orphaned children from around the world.
as a Screen Actors Guild stuntman and actor I decided to pursue my interest in directing. A few years ago we heard about the problems the schools were facing with budget cuts and decided to make a movie to see what we could do to help. With the aid of local restaurants, locations and sponsors we were able to keep the costs of production down.” Mosley hired over one hundred people on a micro budget and filmed for fifteen days in Concord, Pleasant Hill, Walnut Creek and Martinez. “We filmed our first two and a half days at Channel 7 News anchor Dan Ashley’s home. We also filmed at Scott’s in Walnut Creek, Yogurt Shack in Concord, Alley Cats Collectibles Antique Store in Martinez, Todos Santos Plaza, Wal-
nut Creek Skate Park, Brenden Theatre in Concord, Sequoia Middle School in Pleasant Hill and in three family homes,” he said. Several local restaurants fed the cast and crew in exchange for promotional advertising. A second screening will be held at the Brenden Theatre in Concord on Saturday, September 8 at 7:00pm. Superintendent Dr. Steven Lawrence is expected to attend along with MDUSD families who have been following the three-year journey. A DVD of “Chasing Rodriguez” will be available for purchase on Amazon.com. “Our goal is to give 25% of the net proceeds from the DVD sales to MDUSD,” continued Mosley. To learn more about the movie, visit www.facebook.com/concordmovie and www.concordmovie.com.
Crescent Dr. at Downtown Plaza
Saturdays, SSa aatturddaays, 9 aam-1 m--11 ppm m • RRain aiinn oorr SShine hine fb.com/PleasantHillFarmersMarket
All month: It's back to school time! Enter to win a very nice backpack filled with brand new pencils, paper, and other school supplies. Artem, Nikita, Oleksandra and Anne with the Spinos and Helberg kids in Pleasant Hill.
CITY OF PLEASANT HILL
Your Food, Your Community, Your Farmers’ Market
www.ourcommunityfocus.com
August 2012
Page 13
Local Fourth of July Festivities
July 4th Firecracker Run Results
The Pleasant Hill’s Annual Firecracker 5K Fun Run on July 4th raised $12,500. Over the years, the 5K Run has raised over $70,000 for Pleasant Hill schools. Top finishers in each age group: Ages 2-12: Girls: 1) Emma Swanson, 2) Amanda Philson, 3) Erin Moore, 4) Sophie Chavez, 5) Genevieve Wiley, 6) Megan Hood, 7) Payton Heaney. Boys: 1) Thomas Mundy, 2) Stephen Mundy, 3) Logan Heaney, 4) Oliver Sekel, 5) Orion Ravin, 6) Cameron Wilson, 7) Jake Heinlein. Ages 1318: Girls: 1) Kelly Collins, 2) Kendall Stuscavage, 3) Parisa Broomand. Boys: 1) Luke Williams, 2) Justin Mogannam, 3) Matthew Schumann. Ages 19-29: Women: 1) Kie Shidara, 2) Nicole Hood, 3) Alyssa Mundy. Men: 1) Robb Van Wyck, 2) Will Holland, 3) Paul Matejcek. Ages 30-39: Women: 1) Nicole Salmon, 2) Jennifer Grossi,
3) Kristina Fitzpatrick. Men: 1) Micah Nash, 2) Emanuel Radutiu, 3) Brian Gagnon. Ages 40-49: Women: 1) Trish Heaney, 2) Monica Ravin, 3) Terri Caroll. Men: 1) Bill Salacuse, 2) Peter Ceresa, 3) Daniel Roed. Ages 50-59: Women: 1) Gina Ruotolo, 2) Donna Monteiro, 3) Lynn Mathre. Men: 1) Daniel O’Connor, 2) Kenneth Ruotolo. 3) David Altop. Ages 60-69: Women: 1) Sheila Weston, 2) Cindy Chudy, 3) Dorothea Jones. Men: 1) Bruce Wodhams, 2) Bill Boyle. 3) Thomas Mc Clain. Age 70 and Over: Women: 1) Sandy Stauffer. Men: 1) Joseph Pieralde. Complete race results can be found at active.com or phjuly4.com
Martinez Parade
Best Youth Group- In Motion Dance Center
Martinez Parade Winners
Best Local Business - Main Street Sweets • Best Service Club - Kiwanis Club of Martinez • Best Car Club - Hot Rod Hoodlums • Best Antique Vehicle - Multi-Decade Reunion • Best Music Group - Diablo Regional Concert Band • Best Float - Martinez Rotary Club • Best Youth Group - In Motion
Dance Center • Best Use of Theme Stahlberg Photography • Best Marching Unit - Friends of Martinez Library • Best Spirit Award - Charles Martin • Judges Choice - Martinez Early Childhood Center • Mayor’s Choice - Clan Galbraith Highland Mercenaries Congratulations to all the participants.
Pleasant Hill Parade Winners
There were three different float categories at the 4th of July parade. The winners are: Best Themed Float Entry: Allied
Waste Services • Best Themed Walking Entry: Studio A Dance • Green Oak Award (Best Green Entry): Allied Waste Services
Allied Waste, given the Green Oak Award (Best Green Entry)
Judges Choice – Martinez Early Childhood Center
Pleasant Hill Parade
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Page 14
August 2012
CORKS AND FORKS
Pair Up Kid’s Favorites Making a meal from recipes my kids love does not mean the adults won’t like it. I look for recipes that can be made plain most of the way and hold back on some of the more “adult� ingredients to add later. One of my kids loves baked potatoes with sour cream but doesn’t like classic potato salad. Here is a potato salad recipe that uses all of the favorite toppings for a baked potato and can be served warm or cold. Got a vegetarian in the group? Serve the bacon bits in a small dish on the side. Another one hates onion? The onions make a great “optional� garnish. Just about everybody likes grilled sausages. For more adventurous eaters, Beer-Braised Sausages are moist and
With La Sommelierre Maria Terry with fresh basil and top with ice cold alcohol content of 5% and are a welinfused with the flavors of garlic, onion sparkling water. The flavors and temcome reprieve from 14% alcohol wine. and beer. If those flavors don’t work for peratures will harmonize beautifully. Keeping things cool at the end some of your diners, just leave those So, go on. Pair Up! of the meal, everyone will love Wadogs out of the braise. For the non Maria Terry is a Certified Somtermelon Sorbet. For those who like sausage eaters, it’s easy to cook a couple melier and Wine Educator in the San a twist, accompany the sorbet with a of standard hot dogs or even a veggie Francisco Bay Area. For more great Basil Wine GelĂŠe (full recipe at www. dog. wines and information please visit LaSommelierre.com). Ice cold foods Grilled sausages and bacon-laden Maria’s website at www.LaSommelidon’t work with most alcoholic beverpotatoes would be great with a meaty erre.com. ages. Instead, muddle orange slices Syrah but this type of meal on a hot summer night calls out for a cold beer. Summer Ale is perfect. Crisp and light, the flavors are often enhanced with fresh lemon. Not too hoppy or bitter, ales are made with malted wheat and traditional top-fermenting “aleâ€? yeast. Market organizer, Karen Stiles, hopes to catch the lunch crowd as well as The head is unusually abundant due to the commuters on Wednesdays at the Pleasant Hill/Contra Costa Centre the natural protein deposits of wheat, BART station She has rounded up 16 farmers and a dozen food vendors with a thick consistency similar to for an ample display of the region’s seasonal offerings as well as some really yummy prepared foods. Get the weekend off to a great start with this meringue. Summer Ales generally have
New Wednesday Farmers’ Market
Beer Braised Sausages INGREDIENTS 3 beers, your choice of style ½ onion, rough chopped 5-6 garlic cloves, rough chopped 6 uncooked sausages
DIRECTIONS Bring the beer, onion and garlic to a low boil. Add sausages and cook for 15-20 minutes. Finish cooking on the grill to crisp casing. Yield:Â 6 Servings
Loaded Potato Salad INGREDIENTS 5 large white rose potatoes 16 oz. sour cream 1 bunch chives 1 cup bacon bits 2 cups cheese Salt and pepper, to taste
great Wednesday market!
When: Wednesdays from 11am - 6pm Where: Pleasant Hill BART station at the Contra Costa Centre Transit Village Info: Karen Stiles Email: stileskl@msn.com; call: (925) 639-2799
We’re Here for Your Cutest Family Members You don’t have to be an upright, two-legged offspring to be a the household.
Parsley or dill, (optional) to taste DIRECTIONS Cut potatoes into small, bite size pieces. Boil in water for 10-15 minutes until very soft. Stir in remaining ingredients. Serve warm or cold. Yield:Â 8 Servings
Hillcrest is here for the whole
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Banana Lime Black Cherry Mango Blue Bubble Gum Orange Blue Raspberry Passion Fruit Pina Colada Blueberry Pink Cotton Candy Cherry Chocolate Root Beer Rock and Roll Coconut Strawberry Fruit Punch Grape Tiger’s Blood Green Apple Tutti Frutti Lemon Watermelon
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2211 Morello Avenue Pleasant Hill, CA 925-676-1909
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August 2012
Page 15
Last Wishes Lead to a Trip of a Lifetime
Showrooms also in Santa Clara & Milbrae
Robert Aloysius Donnelly made it clear in his will and in comments to his friend and trustee, Robert Kain, that, after his death, he wanted his cremated remains taken to his birthplace in Limerick, Ireland. On November 6, 2011, at the age of 95, the Walnut Creek resident died peacefully at Chateau’s Poet’s Corner under Vitas Hospice, following two years at Atria Valley View. “I spoke to his niece, Miriam Helm, who lives in Santa Rosa, about his instructions,” said Kain, executive director of Diablo Valley Foundation for the Aging, “and asked her if she could take his ashes to a Limerick celebration of his life. After a few days, she called and said, ‘I can’t bring myself to do it.’” Donnelly, the youngest of six children, came to the U.S. in 1945 and worked as a PG&E gas serviceman until retiring at the age of 62. He had never married and there were no other relatives in the U.S. to comply with his last wishes. With thoughts of going on an unusual
By Ted Fuller mission, Kain took steps to surprise his wife, Brenda, on her December 25 birthday with a trip she had longed to take for years. “I put a bar of Irish Spring soap into a large box and took it along to her birthday party,” he said. “When she opened it and pulled out the soap, I reminded her of the slogan, ‘Taking a shower with Irish Spring is like a visit to Ireland.’” The Kains reached Limerick on March 20 where they spent two days with Donnelly’s relatives, including Miriam Helm, and where Donnelly’s ashes were interred along with his parents and grandparents. Robert Kain notified the Jesuit Order in Ireland and the Augustinian Order that their schools, which Donnelly had attended, would share his $500,000 estate. With fond memories of Donnelly, the Kains toured Ireland in a rented car, enjoying the splendid scenery, chatting with an
80 year-old sheepherder and other natives, gladly paying the $10.50 per gallon for gas, and taking about 200 photographs to remind them of this special trip. The handling of Donnelly’s request is one of many steps the non-profit Diablo Valley Foundation for the Aging has taken for more than 6,000 clients since Dean Lesher, Contra Costa Times publisher, and Katharine M. Grant, social worker, led in its formation in 1975. Its services include care management, personal assistants, fiduciary and bill paying services, money management, and trust and executor services. The foundation also operates a Danville adult day care center for frail seniors and those with mild memory loss. Diablo Valley Foundation for the Aging is located at 1936 Tice Valley Blvd., Walnut Creek. Contact Executive Director, Bob Kain at (925) 9458040 for more information.
Martinez Senior Activities 818 Green St. (925) 370-8770 Aug. 12 - Pancake Breakfast 8am–11am. Pancakes or toast, sausage, eggs, orange juice and coffee. Everyone is welcome. $3.50 adults/$2 10yrs. and younger. Handmade crafts, perfect for gifts, will be on sale during the breakfast. Sept. 13 - Fire Safety Presentation 10am. Mary Beth from Contra Costa County Fire Protection District will discuss: smoke detectors and fire extinguishers; kitchen fire safety and storage of hazardous materials; electrical and candle fire safety; planning an emergency escape plan; what to do in case of fire, burn treatment; home maintenance: furnace, dryer vents, etc. Open to the public, handouts & pamphlets available. Please call to register: 925 370-8770. Oct. 11 - Annual Quilting Trip. Our Quilters will be travelling to Santa Clara for their annual trip to the Pacific International Quilt Festival XXI and would like to extend an invitation to anyone interested in attending, space permitting.
Pleasant Hill Senior Activities 249 Gregory Lane (925) 798-8788
♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦
Aug. 15 - Tahoe Joe’s Fundraiser 11am-10pm. Who knew enjoying a delicious steak would help us buy chairs for the new building? Starting now, you can purchase $20 tickets for a delicious meal that includes an entrée choice of a 6 oz. Joe’s Steak, Wood Grilled Chicken, or Sierra Mountain Ribs and Mountain Mashers, Blue Lake Green Beans, and a choice of soup or salad. We’ll definitely get our $20 worth. Once you’ve purchased your ticket, visit Tahoe Joe’s any time August 15th and dine in or take out. For every $20 ticket sold, we will gain $10 for our furniture fund. Purchase your ticket now at the Little House. Aug. 21 - Backyard BBQ 12pm. Enjoy a classic backyard BBQ munching on a hot dog with all the fixings and playi ng baggo with friends. $5 member/$6 general. Purchase your tickets at the Little House before the event. BBQ held at the VFM building, 1919 Wendell Ln., Pleasant Hill. Aug. 29 - Classroom in the Community: “Better Your Blood Pressure” 10:15-11am. Free program. The first ten people to register will receive a free lunch from our CC Café, compliments of SCAN Health Plan. Otherwise you may still reserve a meal for $2. Lunch at 11:30am. Pre-registration is required for lunch. Call 798-8788 to register. St. Andrew’s Church, 1601 Mary Dr., Pleasant Hill.
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Page 16
HOME TEAM
Guerreros’ Successes
For the third year in a row, Liga Latina’s Guerreros made it to the semi finals for Liga Latina of Concord. The U12 soccer team was formed just over four years ago with a handful of players unfamiliar with the game. Guerreros has been working hard to prove, not only to their parents but also to themselves, that when they set their minds to something and work hard, they can accomplish anything. Guerreros placed fourth in the finals. Submitted by Juan Ramos.
First Row - Pedro Garcia. 2nd Row - Emiliano Garcia , Gerardo Ramos, Enrique Juarez, Kevin Martinez, Enrique Segura, Sebastian Duran. 3rd Row - Joel Castro, Jose Gonzalez, Alexander Sandoval, Jonathan Chacon, Salvador Ramos. 4th Row - Coach Juan Ramos, Joe Hidalgo, Juan Arias, Alexis Gallegos, Salvador Placencia , & Coach Sergio Juarez
Gators Chomp
August 2012
Hawks Win Big From PHBA.org
Congratulations to the 14U Blue, 14U Red, and 10U division winners! The Hawks took three out of six Diablo League Championships for 2012! The 14U Hawks Blue team won it the hard way, giving away a game in the second round that forced them to play four games on the final day of the tournament. The Hawks ended up going 4-1 at Twin Creeks, which included a nailbiting, 9-inning win against Orinda. In the end, the Hawks’ pitching depth and some timely double plays won the day with a resounding 12-4 victory over Orinda in the championship game. The Blue team finished the regular season in first place with a 17-5 record. The 14U Hawks Red team went undefeated to the championship, beating Orinda in the first round and then beating the top-seeded Piedmont team twice. As expected, the Hawks’ pitching and defense were major factors. It also helped that their bats were hot, sparked by a leadoff home run in Game 1 and a convincing 17-5 victory over Piedmont in the finals. The Red team finished the regular season in second place with a 13-8 record. The 10U Hawks took the big prize in their division at the Diablo League Championship by battling it out with a tough San Ramon team. They went 3-1 in the tournament with two of three games against the Slammers being decided by one run. The 10Us finished the regular season in first place with a 19-4 record, and most recently celebrated a win at the State Championship in Twin Creeks, Sunnyvale over the weekend of July 14 & 15.
14U Blue: From LtoR:Back row: Coach Don Wildes, Mgr Paul Damhesel, Coach Doug Seandel and Coach Gary Powell. 3rd row: Josh Nelson, Dante DeLuca, Jonathan Chu, Coleman Shess and Tristan Webb. Middle row: Spencer Louis, Adam Rodriguez, Christian Powell and Patrick Guidi. Kneeling: Elliot Davidson, Hank daRe, Kyle Lofquist and Brett Tressen. Photo by: Paul daRe
The Martinez AAA Gators girls softball team won the Martinez Youth Baseball & Softball Tournament of Champions game against the Antioch Orioles 12-8. After winning the championships against the Wildcats they received league trophies. The team consisted of girls ages eight to twelve and finished the season with a 12-3 record. Coaches Jacob Emerling and Manny Gonzales, along with team manager Craig Miller provided a solid learning experience for Gator players.
14U Red: Tyler Brackins, Ben Coburn, Bryan DeMercurio, James Doty, Spencer Ellis, Braeden Gowdy, Colter House, Jordan Rajan, Max Starkman, Harrison Stern, Nick Vasquez and Forrest Westwater. Also pictured are Cooper Stern & Coaches Bob Stern, Matthew Bert Gowdy and Bob DeMercurio. Photo by: Brian House
Amy Weibens, Gina Momaney, Hayley Ward, Isabella Emerling, Katelyn Kyllo, Kiana Abalos, Lindsey Snyder, Liz Gonzales, Reese Miller, Sheridan Todd, Sterling Parker and Trinity Cunha.
10U Hawks: Jacob Brown, Domenico Ceresa, Keoni Coloma, Dominic Dachauer, Grant Daley, Davis Diaz, Logan Gowdy, Aidan Keeler, Connor Obrien, Connor Rhodes, Christopher Santiago and Joey Soberon. Coaches: Duncan Rhodes, John Daley, Burton Coloma, Adrian Diaz, and Matthew Bert Gowdy.Photo by: Jennifer Buchell
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August 2012
Page 17
HOME TEAM
Season Ticket Stephenson Makes Debut Robert Stephenson, the Cincinnati Reds’ No. 1 draftee in June 2011, touched 97 miles-per-hour with his fastball in his professional debut. He did so on June 18 for the Reds’ Billings rookie affiliate. Stephenson pitched five solid innings and allowed just three hits and one run (unearned), with one walk and tallied eight strikeouts. The hard-throwing right-hander also showed the rest of his arsenal as he threw curveballs and change-ups. At one point in the game, he retired 12 of 13 batters in a row. Stephenson threw 65 pitches, 50 of which went for strikes. He did not figure in the decision. Thus far, he is 0-0 in five starts with a solid 2.18 ERA. He has 24 strikeouts in 20 2/3 innings. Stephenson is a graduate of Alhambra High School, where he was the team’s ace. He also earned the California High
By Chuck Nan School Player of the Year Award in 2011. presentation of the 2011 WAC championship rings and the induction of Jim Ditto for Waterman Left-handed Elliott Waterman came Flores into the Wall of Fame. on in relief, allowing just one hit over 1 2/3 Flores’ baseball success began long innings in his professional debut for Au- before FSU. He played at Alhambra High, where he earned First Team Allburn (New York) of the New York-Penn FAL honors all four years in addition to League (Class-A). The Doubledays, as being named an All-NorCal All-Star in the team is known now, is an affiliate of the Washington Nationals. Thus far, Wa- 1975 and 1976. He was also named the terman has appeared in six games and is East Bay Outstanding Baseball Player 1-0 with a 3.38 ERA in 10 2/3 innings and in 1976. He then played two seasons at DVC, where he was named to the Allhas notched nine strikeouts. GGC and All-NorCal JUCO First Teams Waterman is an Alhambra High in 1977 and 1978. School alum and finished three years of study at USF, where he was an All-WCC Flores’ JUCO career culminated when he blasted a dramatic grand slam Academic Team selection for 2012. home run on a 3-2 count in the 9thTwice a Bulldog inning to lead DVC over Cerritos 11-10 The Fresno State University (FSU) in the 1977 state championship. He was baseball program held its “Double inducted into the DVC Athletic Hall of Play Dinner” in February at the Clovis Veterans Memorial District. The evening Fame in 2008. At FSU, Flores was on the 1979 included the 2011-team awards, the
and 1981 NCBA championship teams. The two-time All-NCBA shortstop was drafted by the Minnesota Twins in 1981 after earning a sweep of FSU honors: MVP, the Golden Glove and Coach’s Award. Flores hit .303 in 1979. He sat out the second season, but returned in 1981 and started all 65 games for the Bulldogs, batting .325 with 34 RBIs and 71 runs scored. Flores still holds the college’s single-season fielding record for a shortstop, ranking first in total chances and putouts, and tied for in assists. After graduating from FSU in 1981, Flores played three seasons in the Minnesota Twins organization, playing in locales such as Wisconsin Rapids, Orlando and Visalia.
Hawks Take Cooperstown by Storm
The Pleasant Hill Hawks 12U team traveled to Cooperstown, New York to attend a weeklong tournament that hosted 104 teams from all over the United States and Canada. The Hawks scored eleven home runs, playing through storms, humidity and
heat, thoroughly enjoying a very memorable experience. Various competitions were held on Opening Day and speedy Dean Jones participated in the “Roadrunner” contest, racing the bases with other selected participants and placed 4th overall.
Pictured LtoR: Spencer Schulhauser, Jared Fernandez, Nick Cirelli, Jason Forsyth, Coach Vic Belfiore, Jack Belfiore, Devin Hutslar, Manager Dave Forsyth, Devin Chellew, Dean Jones, Jackson Driver, Ryan Flannigan, Grant Smith, Will Jacobson, and Coach Erik Hutslar. Photo by Gillian Chellew.
VISIT US AT:
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8/31/12
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Page 18
HOME TEAM
August 2012
Mt. Diablo Unified Millennium Mile
Each spring since 2000, Mt. Diablo School District’s physical education department has held the Millennium Mile, a special track event for 4th and 5th graders. All students are required to run a mile as part of the statemandated fitness test and students work hard to improve their mile times throughout the school year. The P.E. department wanted to celebrate the students’ efforts and give them a long-
term goal to strive for. Two 4th and 5th grade girls and boys with the top mile times qualify to represent their school at the track meet. Included in the event is a onelap Fun Run for students with disabilities. For many students, it is their first time to run on a nice high school track. The Millennium Mile was fully funded by the district until three years
PHBA Western Champs
ago. When faced with budget cuts, P.E. teachers were determined to keep the event active and now donate their time, seek donations and even received a grant from the Foundation for Pleasant Hill Education to cover the roughly $2,000 cost. They are researching ways to raise the necessary funds again for the coming year. P.E teacher Julie Miller states, “I’m committed to making it happen. Some parents and students don’t like the mile, but as a P.E. teacher, I love it. It is one event that every student can improve in and I see students work so hard to do this. My favorite story is about a very out-of-shape, overweight, female student whose mile time was almost 40 minutes. And that’s when she didn’t fall down. Over the school year, she stopped falling down
then gradually improved her time until, by the end of the school year, her mile time was down to 17 minutes and she even asked to do an extra lap. We see approximately 6,000 students each week. That is a lot of students working on their mile and their health. That is why I am so passionate about our special track meet!” 2012’s Millennium Mile was held in May at Ygnacio Valley High School. Trophies were awarded to the top two finishers in each grade: 4th grade Sydney Kupsh, (Highlands) and Luke Sanders, (Walnut Acres). 5th grade - Emily Howie, (Valle Verde) and Joseph Momich, (Valle Verde). Information provided by Julie Miller, MDUSD, Physical Education instructor.
Pictured are the undefeated Giants! LtoR: Derek Sheets, Coach Anthony (behind), Evan Doorlay, Ryan Hood, Ryan Abele, Michael Avansino, Scott Conlin, Mikal De Wit, Christian Wanser and Kyle Nelsen. Coaches: Jack Abele, Mike Mesetz and Anthony Mesetz
Bulldogs Take Top Spot
The Martinez Bulldogs 12U baseball team took the June PHBA Annual Boys Invitational by storm taking first-place with a clean sweep including an exciting championship game victory over the Pleasant Hill Hawks, 10-5. The team dominated with pitching, clutch hits and solid defense.
Coaches: George Railton, Adam Harrison (with Ellie) and John Abraham. Back Row: Colby Harrison, Joey Zaroual, Angelo Aguirre, Matthew Herin, Jeremy Abraham (knee), Jack Railton, Danny LaFortune, Jared Puglisi, Doug Bermudez and Daymyn Blalock. Submitted by J. LaFortune.
Mile participants are led in stretching before the big race!
CPHS Hall of Fame
On Saturday, August 25 the Falcon Foundation will host its 6th Annual Hall of Fame Dinner and Induction Ceremony honoring individual athletes, teams, coaches, and special individuals who have greatly contributed to CP athletics. This fund-raising event will be held at St. Andrews Community Center, 329 Civic Dr. in Pleasant Hill. The event also benefits Falcon Athletics and supplements funding for those school disciplines adversely affected by the Mt. Diablo School District budget cuts. $50.00 per person. Reservations needed by August 15. Tickets sold at door for $70 per person if seating is available. Send checks to: HOF Falcon Foundation c/o Barbara Lannum, 109 Woodview Ct. Martinez, 94553.
Event begins at 5pm with a no host bar; dinner begins at 6:30pm. For more information contact Jerry Pollard, CPHS Hall of Fame Committee at jerrypollard@yahoo.com or call: (916) 813-5401 Athletes to be honored: Cal Percy, 1964 Swimming; Jim Percy, 1972 Baseball Swimming ; Bobby Glover, 1994 Football, Basketball, Baseball; Lindsay Allen, 2004 Cross Country, Track and Field Teams to be honored: 2003-2004 State Champions Cross Country Coach to be honored: Bill Kepler, 1988-Present Special Achievement Award: Dawn Block
August 2012
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Page 19
Teams Enjoy AYSO National Games in Tennessee Information Submitted By Vangie Jordan and Jeff McClure The American Youth Soccer Organization’s (AYSO) National Games are held every two years and involve over 300 U10 – U19 teams from around the country. This year the games were held in Knoxville, Tennessee, July 1-8. The week long celebration included an Opening Ceremony at the University of Tennessee, the 3-day Soccerfest, sportsmanship medals and awards ceremonies. The road to Tennessee started in 2011 when the Pleasant Hill Martinez Soccer Association (PHMSA) was invited to bring a U12 girls and U14 boys team to compete at the 2012 National Games. After try-outs, two teams were formed—the U14 Boys Jets and the U12 Girls Arsenal. The girls had to raise their level of play to prepare for the National competition through constant training and tournament play. Although they developed into a strong team, California living couldn’t prepare them for the elements of a Tennessee summer. Despite the weather conditions, the Arsenal team, along with 3,000 soccer players from around the U.S., enthusiastically attended Opening Ceremonies. “It was an awesome sight to behold with all the colored jerseys in the stands and parade of teams on the floor. At that moment everyone realized how big AYSO is, and we were humbled to be part of the huge event,” said parent Vangie Jordan. Game 1 of Soccerfest brought Arsenal a 2-0 win with goals by Bailey and Holly. Game 2 ended with a 3-0 win with goals by Lilly, Gaby and Katie. They had their third shutout win in game 3 with goals by Gaby, Rachel and Jayna and two goals by Holly along with solid keeping from Katie and Izzy. Game 4’s, 4-0 win brought Arsenal to the quarter-finals where they experienced their first loss at 3-2 with goals by Gianna and Holly. Katie’s favorite part of Nationals was Soccerfest. “I loved playing with and against girls from all over the United States,” she said. Abigail remarked that, “Trading pins was really cool.” Arsenal donated a lot of their soccer items to another local team before they left and were the beneficiary’s of a pop-up
The combined U14 Boys, Jets & U12 Girls, Arsenal AYSO National Teams. Boys/Standing LtoR: Eli Peters, Shane Vasser, Josh George, Owen Casebeer, Robert Viano, Blake Johnson, D’Angelo Morales, Kyle Tiangsing, Wyatt Hattich. Boys/Kneeling LtoR: Calder McClure, Patrick Bilotti, Dakota Seidenspinner, Drake Westphal, Zack Homer and Sean Fuller (in cast). Girls/Standing LtoR: Bailey Matthews, Abigail Burns, Jayna Jordan, Holly Gallagher, Lilly Walker, Gabby Darden. Girls/Kneeling LtoR: Gianna Sarrasin, Sammy Sutton, Rachel George, Katie Paredero, Izzy Thompson. Photo Credit: Arsenal Mom, Krisann Sutton
canopy from ‘Tennessee Tony’ from Chattanooga. Arsenal parent, Laura Walker said, “It really showed the spirit of the game to have a person from the host state to be so kind to us.” During their downtime, the girls had the opportunity to visit the Smoky Mountains, Tennessee River, the Knoxville Zoo and Dollywood. Bailey said, “I had fun when our team went go-carting together.” In the end, the girls won 5 games, lost 1 and tied their last game 0-0 which put them in 5th place out of 28 teams in their age bracket. Parent, Krisann Sutton observed, “They played their hearts out – enjoyed the wins and felt the loss. They were committed. I have no doubt that some of the relationships established as a result of this endeavor will last far beyond Arsenal.” The Jets were equally successful in the National Games. During pool play, they had a 4-0 record against teams from around the country, scoring thirteen goals and conceding only one. The Jets moved to the quarterfinals and overwhelmed a team from Eastern Tennessee 6-0 to earn the right to face an opponent from Bakersfield, California in the semifinal round. The semifinal match was one for the ages as the Jets held a 2-1 lead late in the game, only to concede a tying goal as time expired. Rather than fold, the Jets battled
through two overtime periods that still did not decide the match. Per tournament rules, the tie had to be broken with kicks from the penalty mark. Literally hundreds of spectators, tournament participants, including the Arsenal girls, who’s cheers echoed throughout the sports complex, and tournament officials encircled the field and the surrounding hillsides to watch the penalty kick shootout. After 7 anguishing rounds, the Jets prevailed 4-3 in the game that became the talk of the entire tournament. Parent, Denise Fuller reflected that, “One highlight of the Games that comes to mind was the semifinal game that was decided with penalty kicks after a very competitive game. Our goalie, Zack Homer, did an outstanding job as did the guys who made the penalty kicks. It really defined how gutsy this team is.” Less than four hours later in mid-day temperatures close to 100 degrees and high humidity, the Jets had to take on a team from Downey, California in the Championship Game. After 10 minutes of action, the Downey team realized that they had not faced a team of the Jets caliber. The Jets jumped out to an early lead 1-0 and held it until late in the first half, when they conceded two late goals. A highly questionable call led to a penalty kick for Downey early in the second half
and a 3-1 advantage. Despite several gallant efforts to cut the deficit, the Jets could not strike again and the game ended 3-1. Congratulations to both PHMSA National teams!! Arsenal Reflections “You are a good team and I feel like I’ve gained 10 more little sisters” – Jessica Jordan (Jayna’s sister) “My favorite part of the trip was meeting new people and hearing the different accents” - Jayna “I really enjoyed getting to know my teammates better during the TN trip” Holly “I loved every bit of being on this team, especially laughing all week long, even when we ran over cones on the freeway in a storm of heavy wind and rain” - Gabby “Our team worked so hard for a year to get to the games. They are all great players and supported me” - Lilly “I learned a lot from Coach Gina & Mike, I also learned to trust my teammates, be patient, forgiving, and to love the game of soccer even more” - Izzy “I thank my family for their support, even my 4 dogs. I thank my Dad for going to Tennessee” - Rachel “I enjoyed the Opening Ceremonies and the camel ride at the zoo. I will miss everyone” - Gianna
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“Then the full moon looked down over the edge of the canyon wall, her countenance seemingly filled with intense concern, and apparently so near as to produce a startling effect as if she had entered my bedroom, forgetting all the world, to gaze on me alone.” -~John Muir, Mountains of California Join National Park Service rang-
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Mt. Wanda Full Moon Hikes ers for a free evening full moon walk on Wednesday, August 1 and 31, at John Muir National Historic Site’s Mt. Wanda. The two-hour walk begins at 7:30pm with a gentle saunter up Mt. Wanda to watch the full moon rise. Visitors may see the big beautiful moon rise over Mt. Diablo, and may spot the nocturnal native grey fox.
Campfire Program
Join the National Park Service for a free campfire program on Saturday, August 4 at John Muir National Historic Site in Martinez. The program will run from 7-8:30pm. Rangers will lead the group in songs, skits and stories to celebrate the legacy of John Muir, one of the greatest conservationists the United States has ever known. Created in 1964, John Muir NHS preserves the home, landscapes, and grave site of conservationist and national park advocate. Muir, born in Scotland, spent his entire life exploring, studying, and writing about his experiences in the American wilderness. He travelled throughout the world, but most notably in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, and he considered Yosemite to be one of the most beautiful places he had ever lived. Before On August 19 The Martinez Arts Association proudly presents the 43rd annual celebration of Art in the Park with Live music. Artists from all over the Bay Area and Oregon will show and sell their art. Live music will be provided by known local musicians. A Beer & Wine Garden and food booths available as well. Join us downtown at Susana Park at Estudillo and Susana Streets from 10am-5pm. This is a free family event with children’s activities. Proceeds benefit the Art Association and Scholarship fund and grant programs.
August 2012
he passed away in 1914, he advocated for the preservation of five American national parks, and set the stage for a conservation movement that would change the face of this country and later earn Muir the title, “Father of the National Parks.” Meet at the front gate of the John Muir National Historic Site, 4202 Alhambra Ave., in Martinez, (at the Alhambra Ave. exit off Highway 4). Bring the whole family, picnic blankets, lawn chairs, and a desire to have a good time. Rangers will direct you from the gate to the fire ring, which will be under a small grove of redwood trees. If it rains heavily, the program will be canceled. If you have any questions, please call the John Muir National Historic Site at 925-228-8860.
Mt. Wanda, a 325-acre open space of oak woodlands and grassland, is part of the John Muir National Historic Site (NHS). Created in 1964, John Muir NHS preserves the home, landscapes, and gravesite of conservationist and national park advocate John Muir. Mt. Wanda is named after Muir’s eldest daughter, Annie Wanda Muir. Visitors can visit Mt. Wanda almost anytime they like, as it is open sunrise to sunset, seven days a week. This guided walk provides visitors a unique nighttime activity in nature. Meet at the CalTrans Park and Ride lot at the corner of Alhambra Avenue and Franklin Canyon Road, Martinez (at the Alhambra Ave. exit off Highway 4). Bring water, binoculars (if you have them), a light jacket, and a flashlight. Wear good walking shoes because the trail is steep. If it rains heavily, the walk will be canceled. For reservations, please call the John Muir National Historic Site at 925-228-8860.
Photo from Toddling Around Mt. Diablo, by Breanna Shafizadeh and Sarah Becker. Visit their website: www.toddlingaroundmtdiablo.com.
Shell Oil Products US Martinez Refinery Presents
The 9th annual Downtown Martinez
Sept. 22 & 23 • 10am-5pm on Main St. Chalk Artists • Community Chalk Area • Arts & Crafts Booths • Italian Beer & Wine Italian Music & Entertainment • Bocce • Food • Sunday Farmers’ Market
Main Street Martinez • www.mainstreetmartinez.org or call (925) 228-3577 MARTY O’S Concessions & Catering “A Menu for Every Budget”
August 2012
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Page 21
Rec and Park Updates
American Iron Car Show Pleasant Hill Recreation and Park District celebrates the 11th annual American Iron Car Show on Sunday, August 12th! Admission to the public is free and everyone is invited to stroll Crescent Drive between 10am and 3pm to admire the many classic cars that will fill downtown Pleasant Hill. For more details or to register your pre-80’s American car please call 6820896 or visit www.pleasanthillrec.com.
Come Grow with Us! Fall is quickly approaching and Pleasant Hill Recreation Preschool is ready for school! Currently there are some openings for children ages 2 ½ through 6 years. There’s still time to register. Programs begin September 5. Officially established in 1973, our program started with just one preschool class and one teacher for children age 3-4, offered as part of the Pleasant Hill Recreation & Park District. Over the past forty years, we have blossomed and now have nine experienced teachers on staff, over one hundred-fifty preschool students, age 2 1/2 through 6 years, and two campus locations. This success is a direct result of not only our programs, which are designed to encourage children to enjoy learning, but of the dedicated teachers who help our children grow. These dedicated teachers are what
make our programs unique. All have been with the District for at least 10 years and some for over 25 years. One preschool parent says, “The teachers at the Pleasant Hill Recreation Preschool are amazing! It made me feel great that my son was left in such good hands. Thank you!� Our nine creative and experienced teachers are the diligent gardeners who encourage our students to grow. They create the nurturing environment, planting the seeds of knowledge and carefully tend to each child with kindness, care and respect. Our teachers are some of the best people in the community! For more information on how your child can “Come Grow with Us� please contact Preschool Director, Eran Perera, at 682-0896 or visit www.pleasanthillpreschool.com.
Enrolling Now
(925) 682-0896 www.plesanthillrecpreschool.com
Friday Night Family Swim August 17th - 6pm to 9pm Everyone is invited for family swim night at the Pleasant Hill Aquatic Park! Affordable fun for the whole family. Swim Punch Cards and Season Swim passes are valid for entry. For more information call 682-0896 or visit www. pleasanthillrec.com.
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August 2012
Martinez Home Tour
Since 2007, the Martinez Home Tour has become an annual event that showcases the historic homes in the community and is an experience that the public looks forward to with great enthusiasm. This year the tour will be held on October 13 and will begin at 10am at the at the historic Shell Clubhouse with its intact Craftsman interior. For this year’s event the Martinez Historical Society, which operates the annual tour, has completed the selection of eight private homes that represent the architecture of both the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It will include the Martinez Museum, the Shell Oil Museum and will end at John Muir’s Victorian mansion. A variety of exhibits, vintage cars and costumes, demonstrations and live music at various locations have been added to the event. The Home Tour provides
visitors with a memorable experience and also provides funds for the restoration of the old Train Station in Martinez – an historic building dating back to 1877. Free parking at the Shell Club House and transportation to the homes will be provided. Visit www.martinezhometour.com for a review of past home tours. We recommend that you allow at least two hours for the tour. Buses with a tour guide will leave the Shell Clubhouse approximately every ten minutes. If you prefer, you can drive your own car instead of taking the bus. Visit www.martinezhometour.com to purchase tickets online or for a growing list of merchant locations where you can purchase your tickets. Tickets are $25 in advance; $30 on the day of the event; or, $20/each if purchased in a block of ten or more. The tour runs until 4pm.
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August 2012
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Strandwood Holds ‘Penny War’ Fundraiser for Library By Katherine Bracken dren’s and young adult areas of the liof options, they voted to raise money brary! for the Pleasant Hill Library. A parent Earlier this year, the Strandwood secured six Alhambra water containStudent Council decided to support a ers, student council made fliers, and local cause. After discussing a number then the week-long, friendly grade-level competition began. Students earned points for their grade by collecting pennies. Adding to the fun, any nick Martinez Rotary recognized and thanked local donors and businesses for disels, dimes, quarters, or bills reduced the playing “Pennies from Heaven” jars and awarded checks to local nonprofits at the score, so students could “attack” other June 27 meeting. To date, “Pennies from Heaven” has raised over $1,800, all of collection jars with dollars while raiswhich has been distributed back to the community through scholarships and coning even more money for the library. tributions to nonprofits. Certificates of Thanks recipients were: Randy Leptien, No one knew what to expect, but by from LLC, Inc., Lory Costa from Fidelity National Title and Russ Gorman from mid-week, it was obvious this was goGLT Sign Solutions, Inc. There are sixteen businesses that display the jars in the ing to be a huge success as the 10-galMartinez and Pleasant Hill area, and those who could not be in attendance will lon containers quickly became too also be awarded with Certificates of Thanks. Martinez Rotary also donated $250 each to Contra Costa Food Bank, represented by Larry Sly, and Meals on Wheels, represented by Paul Kraintz.
Thanks to the hard work of the Strandwood students and the matching gift of a generous local donor, the Pleasant Hill Library received a $4,000 donation for renovations to the chil-
Rotary Thanks Donors
LtoR: Paul Kraintz, Ron Lettringer, Marianne Clark, Lory Costa, Russ Gorman, Larry Sly and Randy Leptien.
heavy to lift. With the help of a local credit union, Heidi Beck and Keri Guncheon, the teacher coordinators for student council, spent several hours counting the money raised. The kindergarten class won the battle of the Strandwood Penny War, but all the youth of the community will soon have the opportunity to enjoy the winnings of this great competition! The library plans to use the donations for improvements to the children’s and young adult areas, including fruit-shaped beanbag chairs for a young readers’ alcove and more study tables for students.
The Strandwood Elementary School “Penny Wars” raised money for the Pleasant Hill Library. Student Council presented children’s librarian, Patrick Remer, with a check from money collected.
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In the Mix By Paul Cotruvo hound, with Neil actually sniffing like a So here I am dog. sitting at my com2. “Bird Dog” by The Everly Brothers, a puter wondering song about stealing a friend’s girlfriend. what to write about 3. “Rain Dogs” by Tom Waits. A Rain Dog this month, when is a dog caught in the rain with his whole all of a sudden the trail washed away by the water so he can’t Florence & The get back home. A stranded dog, who Machine song “Dog Days Are Over” starts to play on my iPod, wants nothing better than to get home, and Mr. Waits captures it all. and it gets me to thinking (very danger4. “My Dog” by Elvin Bishop. A fun song ous), what are the “dog days” and where about his best friend named My Dog. did that expression come from? According to Wikipedia, “Dog Days” (Latin: diēs “He’s a good ole dog when you’re drunk and stoned. My Dog will show you the way caniculārēs) are the hottest, most sultry home.” Now that’s my kind of dog! days of summer. In the Northern Hemi5. “Hound Dog” by Big Mama Thornton. sphere, the dog days of summer are most Nothing against Elvis, but this version commonly experienced in the months of brings it on home. July and August, which typically observe 6. “Atomic Dog” by George Clinton. There the warmest summer temperatures. The is no way to not move and groove your name comes from the ancient belief that tired old pups with this tune. All I can say Sirius, also called the Dog Star, in close is bow-wow-wow-yippie-yo-yippie-yeah. proximity to the sun, was responsible for 7. “Dogs” by Pink Floyd. Seventeen minthe hot weather. utes of pure Floyd about comparing the I guess I’ll buy that definition. But business life to the life of dogs. Brilliant! then I started thinking (I said this could 8. “Me and my Arrow” by Harry Nilsson. be dangerous) about dogs, and songs A song about the best of friends, a dog about dogs. There has got to be a million named Arrow and a boy named Oblio, of them out there. Who wouldn’t want the only round-headed person in the to write or hear a song about man’s best Pointed Village, where by law everyone friend? Then again, the term “dog” can and everything had to have a point. also mean so much more. After all, it can 9. “Black Dog” by Led Zeppelin. Not sure be a term of endearment (lucky dog or if this song has anything to do with dogs, dawg if you’re Randy Jackson), or a negabut just a great tune. And it has “Dog” in tive connotation, such as an unattractive the title. person (dog face), or just a reprehensible 10. “Dog Days Are Over” by Florence person (dirty dog). So many diverse and & the Machine. This is the song that various meanings, who knew? I guess you could go way back to Patti spawned this little article in the first place. Great song about the end of a relationship Page singing “(How Much Is) That Dogand movin’ on! gie in the Window” or Donny Osmond’s Let me know your favorite dog songs. “Puppy Love,” but I do not want to lose my demographic of the 25 – 50 age group Comment online at ourcommunityfocus. com and of course get out there and sup(insert laughs here). Here is another fun port all that great local music! list of some of my favorite songs about Quote of the month: dogs. 1. “Old King” by Neil Young from Harvest “To err is human, to forgive, canine.” Unknown Moon, a tribute to a deceased Bluetick
PAUL’S PICKS FOR AUGUST: August 5 - The Fundamentals - Sunset by the Lake, Pleasant Hill City Hall Lawn, 6pm August 9 - Sin Silver and The Avenue - Armandos, 707 Marina Vista, Martinez, 8pm August 11 - Petty Theft - Dan’s Bar, 1524 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek, 10pm August 18 - Caroompas Room – Armandos, 707 Marina Vista, Martinez, 8pm August 23 - Lumberyard- The Round-Up, 3553 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Lafayette, 9pm
August 2012
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6:00-8:00pm!
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Aug 19...Cover2Cove
Aug 5...Fundamentals
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And on Sep 2... a DOUBLE HEADER! The Bell Brothers
The Bell Brothers and Lumberyard Lumberyard
Organized by PH Civic Action Commission. Visit www.pleasanthillconcerts.com for all concert information. SERIES SPONSORS
CONCERT SPONSORS Lindsey Little Aug 19
Jul 22
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Casey Strand Chiropractor Aug 19
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Daycare Sep 2
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August 2012
NEW
Summer Hours: Mon-Thur 11-7PM Fri & Sat 11-8PM Open Sundays During Main Street Events Only
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Slow Cooked, Smoked Meats and More
Monday thru Wednesday from 4pm to Close, Smokey D’s is helping your family budget by offering two 1-meat dinner plates and two sodas for $20, plus tax! Valid Here or To Go It’s our way of saying Thank You, for one year of great BBQ in Downtown Martinez!
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Get your RESTAURANT FEATURED in Community Focus Call 925-335-NEWS (6397) or email info@ourcommunityfocus.com
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Restaurant www.dallimontis.com
Come for the food stay for the music!
FRIDAY KARAOKE NIGHT • GRAB THE MIC AND ROCK OUT LIVE MUSIC EVERY SATURDAY
8/4 The S&M Band Scott & Mike • 8/11 The Famous Three-O 8/18 Loose Blues • 8/25 The Business • A Family Tradition Since 1982 • Open for Lunch & Dinner • Reservations & Take Out Available • Small Banquets Welcome • Full Bar & Wine List • A Touch of North Beach in your Neighborhood
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925.335.9915
601 Main Street, Martinez www.smokeyds.com
Voted Best Japanese Restaurant by Best of the Bay TV Viewers in 2010
$30 Birthday Certificate Join our new Birthday Club and receive a $30 Birthday Certificate to spend at Kobe Japan Restaurant during the month of your birthday. You will also receive special offers and information about the latest happenings in our monthly newsletter. Please go to our website
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then click Sign-Up for Our Birthday Club/Special Offers
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MOLINO’S RAVIOLI
homemade ravioli since 1925
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Regular Store Hours Mon- Sat 9am - 5:30pm • Sunday 10 - 5 2150 Pleasant Hill Road., 925.934.7075
Molino’s Hot Food & Catering
For complete menu visit, www. molinosravioli.net
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August 2012
Road Trip Stretching - The Alphabet Game Are you taking a family road trip this summer and need ways to pass time in the car? Want great kid’s entertainment for long stretches of highway that will also keep your body and mind from turning to mush? Play the old familiar alphabet game but with an athletic twist. Finding the letters of the alphabet on passing road signs and bumper stickers can be lots of fun. To bring movement into the game, stretch various body parts when you reach vowels. Start with the vowel “A”. “A” is for “Arch”. With your eyes on the road, gently contract your
By Tonya Marie Amos, Aspire Pilates lower abdominals to support your ders and neck. For “Y”, reach your spine then gently arch your upper back arms over your head in the shape of a and chest up towards the ceiling. This “Y” (or as high as comfortable for your creates a gentle stretch in your upper shoulders) and stretch like your morntorso, reversing slumped posture that ing yawn. Only use one arm at a time if causes discomfort. “E” stands for “Elyou are driving! evate”. Elevate (shrug) your shoulders This physical version of the alseveral times, taking down tension phabet game is great family time that in the neck and shoulders. “I” stands helps keep your body and mind nimble for “Inhale”. Taking several long, full over long distances. And who knows, breaths helps reset your core muscles maybe you’ll hear that all too famous and brings down stress levels. ”O” phrase, “Are we there yet?” a little less. stands for “Open”. Open and close your fingers and toes several times. This activates and stretches the smaller muscles of your hands and feet that get stiff on long drives. “U” stands for “Undu1029 Arnold Dr. Suite 9 Martinez, CA 94553 late”. Gently wiggle your torso and hips up, down, and all around, decreasing discomfort in the lower back, shoul-
Tonya Marie Amos danced professionally in New York for 15 years before opening her studio, Aspire Pilates Center in Concord. She is a fully certified Pilates instructor with over 1000 hours of training including advanced certifications in Movement Medicine, Scoliosis, Osteoporosis, Pre/ Post Natal and Pilates For Golf. For more information, contact please call (925) 680-4400 or go to www.AspirePilatesCenter.com.
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August 2012
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THE GARDEN
The Art of Jam August is the perfect month to pull out the canner and put up backyard fruits and vegetables as they cycle through another amazing harvest. Deeply buried in our past is a primitive longing that is satisfied by the simple act of making jam or putting up a jar of pickles. Only when one starts to cook the fruit and fill the jars is the longing satiated, topped off entirely by random pops of a truly sealed lid. You actually want to hug those little jars and give them a sweet name with your special arts and crafts pen. My pen is purple and labels on my jars are always followed by little hearts that mean absolutely nothing to receivers of my bejeweled glasses of love, unless they are jam makers themselves. The art of jam is truly in the imagination of the maker. The simplest form, no less satisfying to make, are the directions on the paper inside of the pectin
By Lesley Stiles box. In my summer ritual of putting My mom always made apricot and pinefood by, I am always thrilled to go into apple jam and my oldest brother makes a local hardware store to get any equiphis that way every year. (Our mom was ment I may need to augment my evera big canner and she passed it on to all growing battery of canning supplies. of us, boys included. My brothers have Supplies are also available in grocery huge gardens and do a lot of cooking stores, but it just suits the pioneer canand putting up food themselves much ner in me to enter a store where tools are to the pleasure of their wives.) Lemon sold to procure my goods. After all, putand orange compliment anything by ting food by originated as a survival tacadding their magical trick of acid to the tic when harsh winters and long months sweet, rounding out any rough edges. I without harvest threatened food suphave put a reduction of rose geranium in plies. white nectarine jam creating a glorious Experimentation is a blast with jam. ly fragrant as well as tasty treat for the I have a Satsuma plum tree that gets senses. loaded every other year, and one year You can choose to make jam by the as I was making plum jam I thought of directions on the pectin box or you can adding deep, rich, dark chocolate to enmake jam without pectin, cooking down hance the plum flavor. Just a little square the fruit for a longer period of time to in each jar made me catch my breath achieve your perfect consistency. Unand puzzled receivers as to what that like our forbearers, we are fortunate to flavor was. Peach and lavender have for be able to punch in “jam making” on our some inexplicable reason always gone hand in hand for me, so my peach jam gets a few blossoms floating on the top. Ingredients:
computers and run with it from there. There are a couple of canning bibles I have used for decades: my favorite is called Stocking Up by Carol Hupping Stoner and the editors of Organic Gardening; another is The New York Times Natural Foods Cookbook by Jean Hewitt. Put your adventure face on and make some jam. You will be addicted to it from the first time you look at, and possibly hug, your glorious jars. You will look at branches drooping with fruit with an eye for a different kind of beauty and knowledge. You will probably eat more jam. Always a good thing. Lesley Stiles is a graduate of the California Culinary Academy, sustainable caterer and school garden educator. Contact Lesley at lesleystiles@comcast. net, www.lesleystiles.blogspot.com and visit her new website: www.lesleystilesfoods.com.
Strawberry and Basil Jam
2 cups sugar 1 large lemon, zested and juiced 2 large or 4 small basil leaves
2 pints fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
Directions:
Combine the sugar, lemon zest, and lemon juice in a small saucepan and cook over very low heat for 10 minutes, until the sugar is dissolved. Add the strawberries and continue to cook over very low heat for 35 minutes, until the strawberries release some of their juices and the mixture boils slowly. Cook about 30 minutes more, until a small amount of the juice gels on a very cold plate. (I keep one in the freezer.) Pour carefully into two sterile one-pint canning jars and place one big or two small basil leaves in each jar. Either process in a water bath for 10 minutes or keep refrigerated. Refrigerated jam will keep for a couple of weeks.
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August 2012
Rodent Control without Poison Rats and mice are common in many neighborhoods and are pesky nuisances that are difficult to control. Norway rats, roof rats and house mice are not animals of the wilds, but prefer to live close to humans in our yards and homes. The very best way to reduce the rat and mouse population is to modify
By Susan Heckly, Lindsay Wildlife Museum the habitat. Remove ground cover that nighttime predators can help control gives hiding places for rodents—ivy, rodent populations. Barn owls are star jasmine, honeysuckle and juniper famous for this—install a barn owl box are favorites. Remove food sources: in your yard to attract them. But there keep pet food inside at night; remove are other equally efficient predators bird feeders; keep ripe fruit picked and that may pass through your yard. Great especially don’t let fallen fruit lie on horned owls, raccoons, opossums, the ground. To keep rats out of your skunks and gopher snakes are all good home, seal all holes that are larger than predators and are attracted to yards ½ inch. To keep mice out, seal all holes with rodents. larger than ¼ inch. Because there are so many good Predators can help you. Since rodent predators in our neighborrats and mice are generally nocturnal, hoods, it is vitally important to avoid using poisons so you don’t harm the predators. Even though the advertising may say a rodenticide (rodent poison) is safe, as soon as a predator eats a dying rodent, there is a high probability that that animal will also die or be harmed by the poison. Every year Lindsay Wildlife Museum’s wildlife hospital sees animals that have eaten rodenticide-poisoned rodents and are dying themselves. When we receive an animal with symptoms of rodenticide
poisoning, we need to aggressively treat it to counteract the poison. It’s especially heartbreaking when we receive an owlet or a baby hawk that has been fed poisoned rodents by its parents. By cleaning up your property, sealing holes in your house, taking away food sources and encouraging predators, you can control rodents in your area without causing harm to wildlife. For more information about Lindsay Wildlife Museum and ways you can help wildlife, visit www.wildlifemuseum.org.
SOAR LIKE A
Celebrating 25 Years of Giving Back!
Party at ! the Park
HAWK
The Pleasant Hill Aquatic Park! 147 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill
Experience new interactive exhibits, behind-the-scenes programs and live wild animals!
Entertainment on the pool deck with drinks and appetizers Live entertainment from the Maharlika Cultural Troupe Appetizers from Magoo’s Grill of Pleasant Hill
Visit Wednesday–Friday noon–5pm and weekends 10am–5pm.
Friday, August 24th 5:30pm to 7:30pm
Go to www.wildlife-museum.org to learn more.
RSVPs are appreciated! Call 925-‐687-‐0700 or email us at info@phcommunityfoundation.org
The Foundation gratefully accepts donations of any size. In honor of our 25th Anniversary, a $25 donation is suggested.
Thank you to our Sponsor!
The vision of the Pleasant Hill Community Foundation is an enhanced quality of life in Pleasant Hill through inspiring and nurturing its donors and resources to respond to the challenges and needs of the community. To date, the Foundation has given and managed grants totaling more than $1,000,000.
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August 2012
events Martinez Farmers’ Market Now - Oct. 25 - Thursdays, 10am-2pm Court St., between Main & Escobar St. Year Round - Sundays, 10am-2pm Main St. between Castro & Ferry St. Pleasant Hill Farmers’ Market Saturdays November 17. 9am to 1pm. Downtown Pleasant Hill http://www.pcfma.com/ Fridays on the Main June-August 6-8pm. Cars, Trucks, Bikes and Live Music! Free! Downtown Martinez. Foster A Dream Backpack Drive - Hundreds of Foster Children need your help to start their school year off just like their peers with a new backpack and school supplies. Making a difference is as easy as 1-2-3. 1) Donate a new backpack filled with school supplies, 2) Hold a backpack drive, or 3) Make a donation. Visit http://www.fosteradream. org/ to download a supply list or to make a donation. 8/2 - FREE Family Show in Susana Park 2pm-2:45pm. Mike and the Snake Man. Susana Park, Estudillo and Susana Streets in Martinez. For children of all ages. Call 925372-3510 for more information and directions. 8/3 - Moonlight Movie: E.T. 8:30-10:30pm Watch a movie on the City Hall Lawn! Bring a blanket, towel, or chair. 100 Gregory Ln., Lawn Area. Co-sponsored by PHR&PD, Pleasant Hill Library and the City of Pleasant Hill. 8/3 – Plaza Concert and Wine Walk 5:308:30pm Downtown Pleasant Hill. 8/4 - Contra Costa Humane Society for Dunkin’ Doggies Dog Wash Fundraiser Pet Food Express locations - Antioch, Blackhawk, Clayton, Concord, Danville, Lafayette, Pinole, Pleasant Hill and Walnut Creek. Purchase self service dog wash tokens and 100% of the proceeds are donated to CCHS. Buy 3 and get 1 free! For information on the service visit www.petfoodexpress.com and for the event visit www.cchumane.org or call 925279-2247. 8/4 - Friends of the Martinez Library Book Sale 740 Court St., Martinez – lower level of the library. For $8, booklovers may fill a grocery bag of gently used books, DVDs and
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Calendar audio books. Two bags for $15. Members of FOML are admitted from 10am – 11am (memberships are available at the door) and the general public is welcome from 11am – 4pm. 8/4 - Summer Peddler’s Faire, 8am-4pm. One of the largest outdoor antique shows in northern California. Held on the streets of historic downtown Martinez. Get here early to get the first pick of that special item to add to your collection. 8/6 – 8/10 - Hillcrest Church Presents Interfaith Kidz Camp , 9am – 12pm. A unique Interfaith camp where children ages pre-K through 5th explore The Golden Rule through the Christian, Hebrew, Buddhist, Islamic and Native American belief systems with interfaith leaders sharing stories from their various faith traditions. 404 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill, CA, 94521. $25, scholarships are available. Call (925) 689-8260 or visit hillcrestucc.org for registration information. 8/6 - 8/10 - Summer Adventures in Learning: “Makin’ My Mark on God’s World - Kids Can!” Each day we will learn a new Bible story that teaches what a difference kids can make in the world by being who they are. Designed especially for kids age 4 - 11 years old. $20 per child or $40 per family of two or more. Lafayette Christian Church is located at 584 Glenside Dr. Give 283-8304 or visit lafayettechristianchurch.org for a registration form. 8/12 - American Iron Car Show 10am-3pm, Downtown Pleasant Hill. 8/15 - The Society of American Magicians Assembly #112 meets the 3rd Wednesday of each month. We perform great magic and have loads of fun! Open to all! Round Table Pizza, 7pm, 2960 Treat Blvd., Concord. Join us this month and learn magic! Information: Call Fred (925) 451-1292 8/17 – Garage Bands at the Lake 7pm. Check out some local bands at City Hall, 100 Gregory Ln. in Pleasant Hill. Co-sponsored by PHR&PD and the City of Pleasant Hill. 8/25 - Contra Costa Humane Society - 8am12pm. Come sell your wares or shop ‘til you drop at CCHS’s Flea Market. Zio Fraedo’s parking lot, 611 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill 9/5 – May 2013 - Community Bible Study
– A 30-week interdenominational in-depth study of “Gospel of Mark & Letter to the Ephesians.” The Women’s Day Class meets Wed. 9:15 – 11:15 am. Kathy Roberts, Teaching Director. First Presbyterian Church of Concord, 1965 Colfax St., Concord. Children’s program: infants - 5 yrs., Elementary Program: 6yrs. - teens. Homeschoolers welcome. For Information: call Diane at (925) 370-7525 or email dqmtzmom@aol.com Class Website: concordca.cbsclass.org or CBS website: www. communitybiblestudy.org.
At the library Pleasant Hill: Tuesdays - Doorstep Farmers Pick Up 5-7pm. Sign up with Doorstep Farmers, a local CSA, at www.doorstepfarmers.com. All subscribers will receive a 5% discount for choosing Pleasant Hill Library as their pickup location. Wednesdays - English Conversation Practice for Adults 1:30-2:30pm. Come practice and improve your English conversation skills in an informal, small group setting. This ESL group is for ages 18+. Wednesdays - Mother Goose Storytime 11:15-11:45pm. Ages 0-3. Thursdays - Preschool Storytime 11:1511:45am. Ages 3-5. Fridays - Mother Goose Storytime 11:1511:45pm & 1:15-1:45pm. Ages 0-3. Fridays - Contra Costa Teen Chess Club 3-5pm. Instruction, friendly matches, and tournaments. Interested in learning, improving your game, and meeting local teens? All levels are welcome. Participants are encouraged to bring own chess board and pieces. Saturdays - Story Time 11:15-11:45am. Babies, Preschoolers, Kids. 8/3 – Afternoon Book Discussion 1-2:30pm. This book club meets on the first Friday of the month. This month the book club will discuss Steve Martin’s An Object of Beauty: A Novel. 8/8 - Teen Advisory Group (The PHUN Team, Pleasant Hill United Nerds Team) 3:305:00pm. Meet other teens and the young adult librarian to share and plan what you want to see happen at the library. Every second Wednesday of the month. Room A. Ages 11-18.
8/14 – Night of A Thousand Inventions 6:30-8pm. Explore a universe of cool inventions, then make your own and take it home. Robots, rockets, smart cars, solar insects, a remote-controlled shark, and much more! This can’t-miss summer event comes straight from kids who submitted their ideas to the Idea Box. Ages 5-17. 8/16 - 8/31 – Annual Book Giveaway 9am5pm. Located at the shipping and receiving area, 75 Santa Barbara Road. Used books available while supplies last! Bring your own boxes or bags. For more information call (925) 646-6423 or libadmin@ccclib.org. 8/21 - PH Book Club 6:30pm-7:45pm. Rebecca Skloot’s The Immortal Life of Henreitta Lacks. 8/28 – Dinos Rock! 6:30pm. Don’t miss this amazing display of dino bones and other fossils as much as 500 million years old! Kids can see and touch a T-Rex head and an 8-foot tall mammoth leg! Plus dino-eggs, dino-tracks, and more! Ages 5-11. Martinez: 8/6 - Pajama Time 6:30-7:15pm. Come in your jammies and wind down with a warm story and a cool craft! Special events every month! 8/8 – Wii Wednesday 2:30-3:20pm. “Sorry, Mario, but the Princess is in another castle!” Can you save Princess Peach? Ages 5-17. 8/13 – Zoomobile & Giants Tickets 2-3pm. The Oakland Zoo is sending out its ZooMobile to our End of Summer party. Come meet and greet these amazing animals as we wind up the Summer Reading Festival. We will have a drawing for a set of 4 Giants tickets at the end of the show! 8/14 - Book Discussion Group On Vacation during the month of August. We will meet again in September to discuss Outlander by Diana Gabaldon. Don’t forget to turn in your reading records, we will have a prize drawing in August. Contact: Catherine Oliver, 925646-9900. 8/28 - Origami 3:30-4:30pm. Learn more about this beautiful and ancient craft. Free workshop taught by origami guru Charles Esseltine. Ages 5-14. For all Martinez Library Event Information, contact Lea Stone at 925-646-9900.
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TEEN SCENE
Fantastic Kids in the Martinez Grange
By Karen Luckhurst Showmanship and 2nd in Herdsman The Martinez Grange #835 had a Award. lot to be proud of this summer at the Hannah Welker (not pictured), California Youth Fair, which is held age 15: 2nd Place First Year Showmanannually for Grange, FFA, Independent and 4-H kids. This was the first year ship and 2nd Place in Poultry HerdsGrange kids from Martinez participated man Award. and their hard work and dedication suc- Tristan Thomas (not pictured), ceeded in bringing the Martinez Grange age 14: 1st Place Advanced Swine Showmanship, 2nd Place Heavy Weight back to life. The kids worked very hard Swine Market Class and 1st place Swine maintaining their animals during the Herdsman Award. week with clean pens, fresh food and Roy Chapman, age 14: 2nd Place water, exercise, baths and a massage! Advanced Beef Showmanship, Reserve They were also in charge of Awards Champion Steer, 2nd in Heavy Weight Night where they did a spectacular job. This terrific bunch of kids received high Market Class, and 1st in Pen of 3 & marks in their classes with their animals Champion Heifer. Martin Caballero, age 16: 1st Place and non-animal entries. in 1st Year Beef Showmanship, 1st in Lenore Delfino, age 13: 1st Place with her dog, Dallas, Senior Dog Show- Pen of 3, 2nd Place in Light Weight Market with his steer. manship, 1st place Novice A Class and High in Trial, Best in Show Fair Theme, Seth Kozlowski, age 9: 1st Place in 1st Year Swine Showmanship, Reserve Jam and Horticulture, 3rd in Advance Champion Swine, and all 1st places in Swine Showmanship, 2nd in Swine Horticulture, Photography, WoodworkLight Weight Market Class, and 1st in ing, Handicrafts, Educational Boards, Herdsman Award for Dog and Swing, Pickles, and Herdsman Award. (Because 1st place Pen of 3. Seth fed his pig a certain brand of feed, Arturo Mora, age 15: 1st Place that company will award him with in 1st Year Beef Showmanship and in Light Weight Market with his steer, and a check for $50 for winning Reserve Champion.) 1st place in Pen of 3. Martinez Grange #835 gives a huge Ericka Berg, age 15: 1st Place in thank you to our local Safeways for her Stills entries, Relish, Educational their support! Board, 1st Place First Year Poultry
August 2012
To Parents of Incoming College Park Freshmen It’s not too early for incoming freshman families to learn about the many ways to stay connected to the College Park High School community through emailed updates and important web links. Start with the Falcon Flyer, the twiceweekly email newsletter. It is the first and best way to receive up-to-the-minute news and information about what’s happening around school, including important deadlines in a variety of areas. See what your kids are seeing by checking out the Daily Bulletin. The Bulletin is posted in classrooms, but you can sneak a peek on the home page of the CPHS website. Just click on the College Park Bulletin box in the upper left hand corner of the page. The CP website is newly redesigned and contains a wealth of useful information about the school. Homelink is a secure, school district-maintained website that allows parents and students to view realtime gradebook, assignment, and other information for their classes. Finally, College Park has several dynamic, involved parent groups that welcome your input and support, including the PTSA, Athletic Boosters, Choir Boosters and Instrumental Music Boosters. The Falcon Foundation Alumni Group will also be involved in raising money for athletics. More information on the Falcon Foundation will be available in the com-
ing months. College Park is also a proud member of the United Mt. Diablo Athletic Foundation and supporter of the Foundation for Pleasant Hill Education. Mark your calendars for the upcoming school year’s Walk Thru days. • Tuesday, August 21 from 9:00am to 12:30pm for 9th and 12th graders • Wednesday, August 22 from 9:00am to 12:30pm for 10th and 11th graders • Thursday, August 23rd from 5:00pm to 7:00pm for those unable to make it on the scheduled days • The first day of school for students is Wednesday, August 29, 2012. For further information and to subscribe to any and all of these email updates and organizations, visit www. cphs.mdusd.org/stayconnected.
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August 2012
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