JULY 2010
A Monthly Publication Delivered to Over 30,000 Residents
• College Park Anniversary.........................page 5 • Books on Wheels.......................................page 11 • 4th of July & Blues and Brews..................page 12 • Pair Up.......................................................page 14
• PHBA . ............................................................page 18 • Happy Hour Specials .....................................page 20 • Home Services Special Section . ....................page 24 • Announcements .............................................page 27
Page
www.pleasanthillcommunityfocus.com
July 2010
HEARD ON THE STREET
What’s on your summer reading list? Be sure to check out the best kid books on page 11.
I’m going back to the classics and reading Pride and Prejudice. -Stacy Monahan, Ageless
My summer reading list is Into Thin Air and The Heat. - Joe Ridgway, 13
I’m going to read Breaking Dawn, the last of the Twilight Series, and My Sister’s Keeper. - Tyler Sheilds, 14
One thing that’s on my list is to read the third Harry Potter with Jackson (my 7-year old) and I’m also helping a friend edit a book she’s writing. - Debbie Shess, Ageless
Advertise with us and reach over 30,000 homes and businesses. Check us out on the web at:
LIFE insurance that makes it WORTH LIVING. Matthew C Rinn, Agent Insurance Lic. #: 0F99232 Pleasant Hill, CA 94523 Bus: 925-671-0222 Fax: 925-671-0309 www.myagentmatt.net
Protect your family for less, build cash value or even get your premiums back if the death benefit has not been paid out at the end of the level premium period.
statefarm.com® Adjustable Premium Level Term Life Insurance policy series 08025 in all states except MT, NY, WI; 08075 in MT, A08025 in NY & WI.
P092015.2
State Farm Life Insurance Company , Bloomington, IL (Not licensed in MA, NY and WI) State Farm Life and Accident Assurance Company (Licensed in NY and WI) , Bloomington, IL
July 2010
www.pleasanthillcommunityfocus.com
CHAMBER NEWS
Confirm schedule at www.pleasanthillchamber.com
Pleasant Hill Chamber of Commerce
Schedule of Events
July 2010 7/2 - No Brown Bag Lunch for July 7/2 - 7/5 - PHC Office Closed (4th of July) 7/9 - Ambassador Meeting 7:45 am-9am PH City Hall- Large Community Room 7/13 - Ambassador Luncheon 11:45am “Back Forty” 100 Coggins, PH RSVP: Ingrid@pleasanthillchamber.com 7/15 - BOD Meeting 7:45am – 9:00am Pleasant Hill City Hall- Large Community Room, 100 Gregory Lane 7/21 Quad Mixer 5:30-7:30 “Diablo Valley Oncology Center” 400 Taylor w/Concord, Lafayette, & Walnut Creek. RSVP: Celena@pleasanthillchamber.com 7/24 - “Blues & Brews Fest 2010” PH Park, Unlimited Beer Tasting (1-5 pm) Headlining: Tommy Castro Band *See details on pg. 12 7/26 - Green Committee 3pm-5pm “Back Forty” 100 Coggins. 7/26 - GAC 5pm-6pm “Back Forty” 100 Coggins, 7/30 - “4th Challenged Golfers Club” Grayson Woods Golf Course, 400 Gregory Lane, PH Check in/Lunch 11:45/ Tee Time 1pm. RSVP: celena@pleasanthillchamber.com
calendar sponsored by
BECKY XEPOLEAS Independent Sales Director Creator: WOMEN OF INFLUENCE www.marykay.com/bxepoleas - (925) 947-2068
Page
P.H. Suspends A-Frame Sign Enforcement By Charley Daly, CEO, P.H. Chamber of Commerce
The City of Pleasant Hill has recognized that in these tough economic times any advantage can make the difference between a business having a growing concern and closing its doors. At the request of the Pleasant Hill Chamber and working in conjunction with them, the city has suspended enforcement of the current rules regarding free-standing signs, better known as A-frame signs. What’s the big deal you ask? A free-standing sign along Con-
tra Costa Boulevard can mean an increase in business of 15%! Businesses in Downtown Pleasant Hill must abide by different criteria than those in other areas and a permit is required from the city for all signs, but the process is simple and most questions can be handled by staff in the Planning Department. If you have any questions feel free to call the Pleasant Hill Chamber of Commerce at (925) 687-0700.
Tahoe Joe’s Mixer
Page
www.pleasanthillcommunityfocus.com
July 2010
JULIE SAYS
The Dog Days of Summer By Julie Ross
When our family moved to Pleasant Hill in the summer of 2002, one of the first things on our to-do list once we were settled was to find a dog to move in with us. I began the search on Petfinder.com, a service much like online dating, but with animals. I was delighted to learn true love can be found on the Internet, at least in furry form. We adopted an adult Australian Shepherd who was being fostered in Sacramento. His foster mom Kim named him Merlot because he was found as a stray wandering in the wine country of El Dorado County. He sported a coat known to those familiar with the breed as “red merle,” which is kind of a reddish-brown mahogany color swirled with cream. So, Merlot it was. I kept in touch with Kim over the years as she started her own rescue group, NorCal Aussie Rescue. With a lot of energy, organization and fundraising, she managed to open a 6-acre hilltop sanctuary for homeless dogs in Grass Valley. In June of 2009 I called Kim with a heavy heart. Merlot was getting on in years and his health had deteriorated to the point where we knew it was time to say goodbye. Those of you
Best friends Wylie and Mack.
who knew Merlot remember his gentleness and the way he would fix an adoring gaze straight into your heart with those gorgeous amber eyes. It was hard to let him go. We were lucky to have our young and reallytoo-cute-for-words Shetland Sheepdog, Mack, to greet us at the door, but we missed our big Aussie so much that by last fall I was stalking Kim’s website of available dogs thinking about adopting another. Months went by. In April, my friend Kathleen mentioned her family was looking for a puppy. I had been checking in with Kim periodically and knew that in February she had rescued an Aussie mix about to deliver a litter from a shelter in Bakersfield. The dog had four adorable puppies just two days after she was rescued, and the pups were now ready to be adopted. After taking a look at the pictures online, Kathleen’s family had their eye on one puppy in particular -- a blue merle -- and went up to Grass Valley to meet him. A week later they brought him home and named him Cobalt. He is a doll and is getting lots of love. Giving it, too. Meanwhile, Kathleen had told me that when they were up at the sanctuary they met and really liked the mother of the puppies. I’ll bet you can guess the rest of the story. Yes, the puppy’s mom now lives at our house. She looks a lot like a coyote so we named her Wylie after Wile E. Coyote of Looney Tunes fame. Wylie is almost as wild and crazy as she looks, so Looney Tunes would actually have made a good name for her too. What clinched the deal was one look at those gorgeous amber eyes, just like our old friend Merlot’s. Summer is a good time to adopt a dog or cat. You can save the life of a really nice animal and give yourself something new to smile about at the same time. If you’ve been thinking about an add-on to your family pack, check out the local shelters and rescue groups online or in-person. You might just find that pair of eyes you just can’t resist. Send comments to julieakross@comcast.net
Pleasant Hill Community Focus A Monthly Publication Elena Hutslar – Publisher/Editor Becky Coburn – Publisher/Editor Jennifer Neys – Publisher/Editor Trish Heaney – Graphic Designer Sarah Birdwell – Graphic Designer Debra Wilson – Graphic Designer
TOTAL CIRCULATION 30,000 FREE to Homes and Businesses In Pleasant Hill, Martinez, Pacheco, Lafayette, and Walnut Creek View the Focus online at Website: www.pleasanthillcommunityfocus.com
CONTACT INFORMATION: Advertising:
advertising@pleasanthillcommunityfocus.com
Community Calendar:
calendar@pleasanthillcommunityfocus.com
Stage Door Theater Submissions:
stagedoor@pleasanthillcommunityfocus.com
Sports Submissions:
sports@pleasanthillcommunityfocus.com
Content Submissions & General Inquiries: publishers@pleasanthillcommunityfocus.com
6680 Alhambra Ave. Box #132 Martinez, CA 94553 Phone: (925) 335- NEWS (6397)
The Community Focus is available at the following locations:
Pleasant Hill Market • Pleasant Hill City Hall Pleasant Hill Senior Center • Pleasant Hill Library Mt. Diablo YMCA • UPS – Virginia Hills, Mtz. Chamber of Commerce (P.H. & Mtz.) Pleasant Hill Rec and Park (Civic Dr. & Gregory Ln.) Hyatt Summerfield Suites, Pleasant Hill
July 2010
www.pleasanthillcommunityfocus.com
Page
Happy 50th Anniversary College Park By Helena Vardas
During the 1940’s and early ‘50’s, Pleasant Hill teenagers had to travel to Concord to attend school at Mt. Diablo High. But as the city grew with the influx of married couples and their baby boom offspring, it became necessary for Pleasant Hill to have its own high school. In 1953, the first Pleasant Hill High School greeted its new students. However, continued population growth made it necessary to add an additional high school and the district purchased 40 acres off Viking Drive. In 1960, College Park, a $2 million dollar high school intended for a population of 1,000 students, was built. Pleasant Hill High closed in 1980 and has since been converted to P.H. Middle School. College Park remains the only high school in the city. This year marks the 50th anniversary for College Park High, the home of the Falcons. Today the high school is the largest in the district with a population of 2,000 students. Some of the school’s achievements are showcased below in celebration of its 50th anniversary. College Park High School received the California Distinguished School award in 2000 and 2007. Because of the large student body and college preparatory curriculum, College Park is able to offer the most Advanced Placement (AP) classes of any MDUSD high school. Some of the AP classes currently
history, photo and statistics. Notable Former College Park High School Athletes from 1970-2009
College Park’s 1968 cheerleaders pose on the football field in front of the tract houses on Norse Drive.
offered are: Biotechnology, Economics, Environmental Science, Calculus and Statistics. Many students are nationally recognized as AP Scholars and AP Scholars with Honors. In 2008-2009, CPHS had semi-finalists and one finalist in the National Merit Scholarship competition, which is based on PSAT scores. The California Math League is an ongoing statewide high-level math competition involving juniors and seniors. In previous years College Park has ranked within the top five statewide and currently is number one in the county. More than 80% of College Park graduates meet UC and CSU entrance requirements. In recent years the school has sent students to Brown, Harvard, MIT, NYU, Stanford, Yale, UC Berkeley, UC Davis, UCLA, UC San Diego, West Point, UC Santa Barbara, US Santa Cruz, USC, USF, University of Michigan, Boston, Reed, Williams, Claremont McKenna, Pitzer, Cal Poly and many other top-
ranked colleges and universities. College Park students have many achievements in the area of music and sports as well. The school can boast about a wonderful band, jazz ensemble, and orchestra. Most recently, the Symphony Orchestra was asked to participate in the 5th Annual New York International Music Festival at Carnegie Hall in 2011. Drama, choir, glass and art along with an expanded visual arts program including video production, round out the arts program. The College Park Falcons have been successful in sports, winning championships in football, wrestling, water polo, track, swimming, baseball and volleyball. The school has led the district with 21 NCS Team Championships between 1970 and 2009, and 19 NCS Scholarship Team Awards between 2000-2009 - both more than any other high school in MDUSD. *Special thanks go to Meghan Mahler, FPHE and Adam Nilsen for providing
Cori Alexander - 2003 All American soccer goalkeeper at Univ. of Portland; led team to 2005 NCAA championship; professional soccer player Lindsay Allen - 2004 Led College Park to 2 state cross country championships; cross country runner and All-American steeplechaser at Stanford Brett Cargill - 1973 Defensive lineman for the University of Oklahoma from 1974-1977; 1975 football team won national championship Don Pederson - 1973 Star tight end for UCLA from 1973-1977; played on team that defeated No. 1 ranked Ohio State in 1976 Rose Bowl Brad Tubbs - 1981 Wide Receiver for the Green Bay Packers and Los Angles Raiders Melissa Seidemann - 2008 All American water polo player at Stanford; won national championships on 20/U and senior teams; competes internationally Casey Strand - 1994 2-time California state wrestling champion (1993 and 1994); 2-time All-American wrestler at Arizona State University Doug True - 1976 All Conference basketball player at Cal; selected in 3rd round in 1980 NBA draft by the Phoenix Suns Russ Rohlicek - 1998 Long Beach State; pitcher for the Chicago Cubs and Astros College Park grads have gone on to be local doctors, school superintendents, actors and directors in Hollywood and on Broadway, government officials locally and abroad, and the list continues. Come meet them at the Grand 50th Celebration on July 9th,10th and 11th.
College Park Grand 50th Celebration July 9th, 10th and 11th All Proceeds benefit CP’s Music and Sports Programs!
July 9th All Class Mixer 5pm-Midnight, PH Community Center, 320 Civic Dr. No-Host Bar, Music, $30/advance, $35/doorincls. appetizers & beverage.
July 10th: School Open HouseAll invited 10am-2pm: Band reunion & basketball game, 10am @ gym.
July 11th: A Day on the Green Field Picnic, CPHS Campus 10:30- 4pm. Fun for the whole family. Food court with local vendors, Music and Raffle
For tickets and info: cphsturns50.wordpress.com
Page
www.pleasanthillcommunityfocus.com
July 2010
Pleasant Hill Real Estate Update By Nathan Hitchcock
T
he local real estate market continues to saunter forward with tempered enthusiasm. It has essentially been without any form of government assistance for several weeks now and has yet to show any withdrawal symptoms. Yes, technically the California Homebuyers Tax Credit is still in effect; however, nearly all analysts have calculated that the fund has long since gone dry based upon the volume of sales that have occurred, though we have not received the official word from the state. One of the best pieces of news for the real
estate market is that, somewhat surprisingly, mortgage interest rates have remained at historic lows. Three months ago, as the Fed announced that it would no longer be purchasing mortgagebacked securities, the majority opinion was that rates had nowhere to go but up. After a brief rise in reaction to the news, rates have slowly edged down by a quarter point. The going rate for a standard 30-year fixed mortgage with no points is now about 4.75%. With the worldwide economy still floundering, unemployment remaining high, and the U.S. dollar improving in value, the prognosis by the experts on rates has now RECENT PLEASANT HILL HOME SALES (5/1/2010 – 5/31/2010) tentatively flip-flopped. Most are Market Days List Price Address Beds Baths Sq Ft Sales Price Sales $/Sq Ft SINGLE FAMILY HOME predicting that rates will stay close 2125 RAMONA DR 3 1 1105 40 $319,900 $295,000 $266.97 to current levels for the foreseeable 53 CELIA 3 1 1042 108 $349,950 $337,000 $323.42 102 LUELLA DR 3 1 1042 17 $415,000 $385,000 $369.48 future. 143 CYNTHIA DR 3 1 1502 42 $407,000 $393,000 $261.65 130 DORAY DR 3 2 1136 13 $439,000 $430,000 $378.52 This positive news on rates, 1474 FIELDCREST CIR 3 2 1497 5 $450,000 $430,000 $287.24 1624 OAK PARK BLVD 3 2 1921 18 $459,000 $460,000 $239.46 stable active inventory, and pending 335 VALLEY VIEW RD 3 2 1498 59 $482,900 $460,000 $307.08 and closed sales numbers, all point 521 PATTERSON BLVD 3 1 1317 4 $469,900 $469,900 $356.80 179 SYLVIA DR 3 8 MARLEE RD 3 816 HAMILTON DR 3 109 BRAMBLEWOOD LN 4 579 ALETA PL 3 150 RANDOM WAY 4 1432 STONEHEDGE DR 3 2928 HILLSDALE DRIVE 4 16 WATERBERRY CT 4 22 PINEVIEW CT 4 466 IRON HILL STREET 4 808 VINEYARD CT 4 Totals: 21 Listings TOWN HOMES / CONDOS / DUETS 2180 GEARY RD 2 2180 GEARY RD 2 850 CAMELBACK PLACE 2 513 RIDGEVIEW CT 3 426 CAMELBACK RD 4 72 MATISSE CT 2 286 SCOTTSDALE ROAD 4 11 ROLLING GREEN CIR. 3 440 BRANDYWINE LN. 3 Totals: 9 Listings
2 2 2 3 2 3 2 3 2 3 2 2
1882 2252 1434 2268 1472 1791 1641 2465 2191 2201 2384 2295
7 5 13 315 4 72 9 82 76 7 130 26 50
$529,000 $525,000 $525,000 $555,000 $549,950 $550,000 $549,950 $699,000 $669,000 $679,000 $749,999 $779,000 $531,073
$513,000 $532,000 $532,000 $540,000 $542,000 $550,000 $565,000 $655,000 $660,000 $674,500 $730,000 $779,000 $520,590
$272.58 $236.23 $370.99 $238.10 $368.21 $307.09 $344.30 $265.72 $301.23 $306.45 $306.21 $339.43 $307
1 1 2 2 2 2 2 2 3
855 855 968 1456 1673 1474 1742 1302 1911
5 154 47 64 55 23 51 23 28 50
$110,000 $159,000 $195,000 $265,000 $339,900 $399,000 $399,900 $425,000 $445,000 $304,200
$113,000 $160,000 $197,500 $276,000 $321,600 $390,000 $390,000 $418,000 $422,000 $298,677
$132.16 $187.13 $204.03 $189.56 $192.23 $264.59 $223.88 $321.04 $220.83 $215
got rent? Are you a landlord who is sick and tired of….
… chasing your tenants down for rent every month? … having to deal with maintenance requests in the middle of the night? … showing your home over and over again trying to find the perfect tenant? 24/7 On Call Maintenance Tenant Screening & Placement Rent Collection & Accounting LOW RATES GUARANTEED!
Sam Nisar Home Mortgage Consultant ���� Willow Pass Rd, ���� • Concord, CA ����� Office: ���-���-���� • Cell: ���-���-���� Fax: �-���-���-���� • sarmad.nisar@wellsfargo.com www.wfhm.com/loans/sarmad-nisar
(925) 825-1100 option 3 www.hitchcockrealty.com 1928 Contra Costa Blvd Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
to a relatively smooth road ahead for the real estate market. Don’t expect home values to experience any notable increases in the near future though: bank-owned and short-sale inventory still remain relatively high throughout the Bay Area, which will continue to buoy overall inventory and keep prices in check. Nathan Hitchcock is the managing broker of Hitchcock Realty, a residential real estate brokerage and property management firm in downtown Pleasant Hill. He can be reached at nathan@hitchcockrealty.com or (925) 8251100. Data contained herein was obtained from the CCAR Multiple Listing Service. Information is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed.
There’s Never Been a Better Time to Purchase or Refinance! Local Mortgage Banker in Business Since 1988 Always Competitve with Interest Rates and Loan Fees Personalized Customer Service
Call Land/Home Today:
Peter Paredero
Sr. Mortgage Consultant Cell: 925-787-8746 Fax: 925-887-6705 pparedero@lhfinancial.com 1855 Gateway Blvd., Suite 140, Concord, CA 94520 Not a commitment to lend. Dept of Real Estate, 916-227-0931. Equal Housing Opportunity Lender. Land/Home Financial Services Inc. DRE. #988341. NMLS #248082
July 2010
www.pleasanthillcommunityfocus.com
Private Money Lending
Page
BUSINESS NEWS
By Peter Paredero
What is your perception of “private money lending”? Unscrupulous ruffians who want you to default so they can make huge gains when they foreclose on you? Nope, not if they want to stay in business, thanks to better consumer protections laws. Private money, which also goes by “hard money” or a “bridge loan,” looks at qualifying factors differently than typical “soft” money which can be defined as institutional money: Wells Fargo, Bank of America, etc. Since soft money is sometimes not an option, it’s worth exploring how private money can help you achieve a real estate goal that might not have been possible through the traditional guidelines of the institutional money. Today’s private money, although more expensive than long term bank loans, has numerous opportunities for investors, cash-poor, equity-rich individuals and those who need cash quickly and have a legitimate reason.
Two Scenarios: I spoke with John Taylor of NorCal Capital Management, a local private money lender, about his typical clients. The most common borrower would be the investor who finds a jewel of a deal and wants to act quickly to make sure he secures his next flip project. But there are many other circumstances that fit the guidelines of John’s company. #1) Mom and Dad own their home free and clear but their cash flow has not kept up with the cost of living and their nephew (whom they once trusted) heavily invested their retirement money at his brokerage in overseas bonds centered around Greece, Portugal, Spain… and Ireland. Money is tight and the golf course at Rossmoor is sounding better and better. The Realtor estimates that $40,000-$50,000 will be needed to get the house ready to sell. De-
pending on Mom and Dad’s credit scores and debt to income, the private money might be a viable alternative to secure the money needed since private money is mostly concerned with the asset and the ARV (after repaired value). #2) You find a home that was half-way finished when the previous owner walked away from it. The house is your dream home, but the lack of sheet rock and a kitchen doesn’t seem to impress the banks… not even a little. Maybe you’ve tried to secure a construction loan or an FHA 203k rehab loan but for one reason or another you don’t qualify. Well, once again, if the deal makes sense, your private money lender may be able to put you in the house and you may just find yourself with a whole bunch of equity that you created by your efforts. The first reaction the novice private money researcher may have
when speaking to a private lender might be, “Why so much upfront cost and why is the interest rate so high?” As the examples above show, private money financing is for specific investment scenarios with the following requirements: the need for fast money, a higher risk investment or simply “out-ofthe-box” thinking that conventional banks can’t provide. There is also the Risk/Reward factor to consider: the higher the risk the lender has to take on, the more reward that lender will require. Conversely, if your loan scenario is not high risk, you can negotiate a lower rate and points with the lender. Keep an open mind, look at the big picture and you may find yourself using private money to realize a goal. Peter Paredero is a Senior Mortgage Consultant for Land Home Financial Services Inc. and has resided in Pleasant Hill since 1994. 925 787-8746. pparedero@ lhfinancial.com
3 Must-Have Blackberry Apps for Small Businesses Are there any handy business apps for the Blackberry? Yes! Here are 3 of my favorites: Evernote: This application lets you create notes containing text, snapshots, voice recordings, and file attachments. In addition, your content is accessible from a web browser or other devices to which you have added Evernote because once created, the new content is automatically sent to the Evernote Service. You can also access your existing notes, search by keywords,
By David Jordan filter by tags, or simply browse. I your Facebook profile. The Blackuse this application now and can berry app lets you make the most of tell you it makes staying organized your Facebook social network while on the go much easier. on the go. Facebook: Shazam Encore: This is the native FaceWhile not truly a book application, verses business app, I have to using it in a web browser, which sneak this in as it is one of the most allows you to stay on top of your impressive apps I have seen. Have online social life with ease. It allows you ever heard music playing and for straightforward use of all the would love to know what the song favorite Facebook services such as: was called and who the artist is? sending messages, poking friends, Would you then like to purchase writing on Facebook walls, and up- and download that song to your loading photos from your phone to phone so you can listen to it at your
leisure? Look no further as Shazam does just that. You tap the logo for the app, point your phone in the direction of the music and literally within seconds it will tell you the title and artist of the song and give you the option of purchasing and downloading it. Dave Jordan is President of Pacific Computer Consultants (PCC). PCC provides IT support services, Internet marketing, and data backup to small businesses and non-profits. 925-215-3559 x101 www.pcc-sf.com
Page
www.pleasanthillcommunityfocus.com
July 2010
Hittin’ the Road By Denise Salamanca
“You paddle out turn around and raise And baby that’s all there is to the coastline craze You gotta catch a wave and you’re sittin’ on top of the world” – The Beach Boys I took my daughters and their friends to Santa Cruz recently to research the culture of surfing for a school report. We weren’t ready to “catch a wave” so we did the next best thing… we visited the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum! This adorable little museum is housed in the Mark Abbot Memorial Lighthouse on West Cliff Lane. Within this converted lighthouse, the museum fully displays the history of surfing and how it has become ingrained within Santa Cruz. They even have a small collection of boards, from a solid wood long board to a foam and fiberglass board that has had a run in with a shark!
Rather than just providing you with a collection of surf memorabilia, you can see living, breathing specimens right off the ledge. Steamer’s Lane is a renowned surfers Mecca within easy viewing of tourists and locals alike. Surfers climb down the cliffs and take on the massive waves, doing flips and speeding through the tubes as on-lookers “ooh” and “aah”. Warning: It’s oddly addictive; you’re always thinking “just one more wave, just one more wave.” If you want to do more than just
watch, go to Cowell’s Beach where you can learn to surf. Check out www. santacruzsurfschool.com for more information on lessons. Cowell’s is also the start to the walk along the beach bluffs all the way to Natural Bridges State Beach. This is a great beach to explore with wonderful tide pools and rocky formations. (Don’t miss the Monarch Preserve in the fall. The massive clusters of butterflies hanging from the trees are an amazing sight). From the museum, it took us about 15 minutes to walk to The
Boardwalk and Wharf. I recommend the walk because the views from along the cliff are absolutely gorgeous, plus you can still watch surfers on the way. The Boardwalk offers thrilling rides and a fun arcade or you can just hang out at the beach. There is no admittance fee and a $29 wristband gets you unlimited rides. After spending the day in the surf and sun, we cruised on home singing along with the Beach Boys. (Ok, maybe it was just me; the girls tuned me out with their iPods). “You’d catch ‘em surfin’ at Del Mar (Inside, outside, U.S.A.) Ventura County line Santa Cruz and Tressels, Australia’s Narabine, All over Manhattan, And down Doheny way Everybody’s gone surfin’ Surfin U.S.A”. - The Beach Boys
7 Questions Before Hiring an In-Home Caregiver By Joyce & Jim Newport, Owners, Right at Home of Mt. Diablo
Are you one of the millions of family caregivers trying to balance your own career and family with the needs of your loved one? More and more families, in an attempt to save money, are hiring “underground” caregivers—those not affiliated with an organization that would provide proper supervision and training. Right at Home encourages families to ask the agency or the independent caregiver the following seven critical questions at the start of the hiring process: 1. What happens if the caregiver becomes ill or isn’t available?
2. Who has legal responsibilities for social security and federal and state taxes, as well as unemployment insurance? 3. Can the caregiver provide legal proof of their ability to work in the U.S.? 4. If the caregiver is injured, who is responsible for medical costs? 5. Have all proper checks been completed (criminal background,
abuse registry, TB test) and have prior work references been contacted? 6. Is the caregiver bonded and insured to cover any injury to the client, damage or theft? 7. What kind of documentation will be provided to substantiate the completion of services? If a potential caregiver doesn’t have the answers to these impor-
PAID ADVERTORIAL
tant questions, it is best to seek out a professional home care agency that takes responsibility for background checks, taxes and insurance liabilities. Right at Home makes the financial investment to take precautions that provide peace of mind to those we serve. An important part of providing highly personalized and flexible care is making sure the family is protected too. Joyce and Jim Newport own the Right at Home office at 1800 Oak Park Blvd in Pleasant Hill. For more information, please call our office at 925. 256.HOME (4663).
July 2010
www.pleasanthillcommunityfocus.com
Adventures Await You By Jessie Wustoff
If you think chowing down on a cookie is a great way to contribute money to an organization raising funds, just imagine riding a camel in front of the Great Pyramids or being four feet away from a baby bison to help a local non-profit meet its goals. That’s exactly what taking longer trips with the Pleasant Hill Senior Center does. And you do NOT need to be a senior OR a member! You get all the perks of group travel AND help us support our travel program, which provides an essential service to many local seniors unable to drive to many locations they are longing to see. Because we book groups on a regular basis with strong businesses like Collette Vacations, we are able to get a discount on travel packages AND get money from the company we travel with for booking lots of travelers. So,
A band aid on your knee, sealed with a kiss. Now it’s your turn. Your parents have always provided patience, reassurance, and protection through all of life’s ups and downs. Now it’s your turn to be there for them. Senior Helpers specializes in dependable, affordable, in-home care for seniors. From a simple helping hand to 24-hour care, we can tailor a program to suit your family’s needs. Let us provide a better quality of life for your loved one, and peace of mind for you!
Call 925-677-2150
or visit www.seniorhelpers.com free In-Home Assessment Caring Companionship n Monitor Food and Diet n Light Housekeeping n Errands & Transportation n Visit Neighbors & Friends n
Attend Events n Medication Reminders n Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care n Up to 24-hour Care n
®
Licensed, Bonded, and Insured. Senior Helpers locations are independently owned and operated.
in short, you pay less to the company, and they give us commission money. It’s a win–win. Group travel lets you sit back and leave the driving to someone else. You have professional, top notch guides the entire length of your journey, meet new people, and see great destinations in America and abroad. For example, we are currently planning a trip next February called “Glory of the Mayan Ruins” where a group of only twentyfour will be visiting many world heritage sites and beautiful settings. The funds raised by these longer trips allow us to offer many of the programs here in Pleasant Hill “at cost” or even for free to our members. This is essential and helps make programs available to everyone, including those on a fixed budget. If you aren’t sure that group traveling is right for you, imagine your last trip with your travel buddy. Now imagine that trip MINUS all of the “conversations” about which road was the right exit or which direction the hotel was. Or my favorite memory: “How could you not verify the museum was open before dragging me here?” Below are examples of some of our upcoming adventures. This Fall: Branson Musical Getaway October 8-13, 2010 Journey through Jordan & Egypt November 4-18, 2010
Coming SOON for 2011: Glory & Ruins of the Maya Culture February 2011 Canyon Country ( Bryce, Zion & the Grand Canyons) - March 2011 Exploring Greece and Its Islands April 2011 Mackinac Island – June 2011 Saturday Day Trips Castello di Amorosa Winery Tour & Calistoga July 31, 9:00am – 6:15pm Sign-up for a day in Napa Valley: Stop at V. Sattui Vineyards on the way to Calistoga where you’ll tour the Sharpsteen Museum, explore downtown stores and lunch at the restaurant of your choice; plus enjoy a guided tour and wine tasting at the magnificent Castello di Amorosa, a replica of an Italian castle. Register ASAP. Fee: $59 Luther Burbank Home & Garden Tour, Santa Rosa August 7, 9:00am – 4:30pm Tour the charming Victorian Burbank home, greenhouse and gardens, a National Historic landmark, which features the famous horticulturist’s unique plants such as the spineless cactus, Shasta Daisy, Paradox Walnut, and the Plum-cot. After visiting the Gift Shop/Museum you’ll have time to explore nearby 4th Street’s shops and have lunch at one of the many cafes. Register by July 6. Fee: $29 Trips are open to adults, 21 and over. The 19-passenger bus departs from the Pleasant Hill Community Center. Register one month prior to each trip. For further information call Pleasant Hill Recreation, (925) 6820896. Jessie Wustoff is the Trips Coordinator for the Pleasant Hill Senior Center.
Page
SENIOR ENVY
Senior Activities 4th of July Pancake Breakfast & Boutique All you can eat pancakes plus more. Enjoy a wonderful selection of handmade items from the boutique. July 4, Sunday, 8-11a.m. $3.50 ages 11 and up; $2.50 ages 5-10; FREE ages 4 & under OM YOGA (NOW 6-week sessions!) Along with gentle stretching, you will learn different types of breathing techniques which help with chronic diseases such as allergies, asthma, heart problems, hypertension, insomnia and much more. Bring a yoga mat for floor work if you would like. Instructor: Suminder Kaur. July 28-Sept. 1, Wednesdays: 5:30p.m. - 6:15p.m. Fee: $45/Members $39/Drop in $8 per session. Bldg. #2 Learn to Play Bunco You’ve heard how fun this mysterious game is! Now you can learn for free and find out why the game is so fun! Attend one of the workshops this summer then show off your knowledge at our monthly Bunco nights. Sign up at the Front Office. July 15, Thursday, at 10a.m., Bldg. #2. FREE! “Get to Know Your Cell Phone” Do you own a cell phone? Having trouble checking your voicemail, programming numbers or changing your ringtones? Teens from PHRPD’s Teen Council are at your service! Register for a 30-minute one-on-one appointment to have your cell phone demystified and become the useful tool it’s meant to be! Donations will be accepted and go toward supporting Teen Center Programs. July 26, Monday, 10a.m. – 12p.m., sign up for a 30-min. appt. FREE - Donations accepted. Bldg. #2. Taste of the Vine Relax from your week and casually sip on a glass of wine with friends. We will have a variety of red and white wines for you to select from plus light hors d’oeuvres will be served. Non-alcoholic beverages available. Sponsored by the Chateaus of Pleasant Hill. July 30 Friday, 4 p.m.–6p.m. Presale: $6 presale/$8 at the door Senior Center Open House Have you always wondered what happens at the Senior Center? Representatives will be available to answer questions on every activity, service, class and sport the Senior Center has to offer. Don’t miss samples from the kitchen, chances to win door prizes, and an opportunity to see what you’re missing! August 20, Friday, 10a.m.- Noon. FREE!
Page 10
www.pleasanthillcommunityfocus.com
July 2010
PAST TO PLEASANT
Pleasant Hillโ s First Church By Adam Nilsen
Religion came to Pleasant Hill in 1947 in the form of truckloads of recycled boards. Prior to this, the closest churches in the area were a handful in Walnut Creek, Concord, Martinez, and the formerly bustling town of Pacheco. A harbinger of the reuse
movement that would begin 60 years later, this first church was a former army barracks; it was reconstructed on Pleasant Hill Road near Oak Park and rechristened, if you will, the Pleasant Hill Community Baptist Church. Residents were reportedly very anxious for the church to open, and in the period leading up to this churchโ s completion, the infant congregation
was even said to have held Sunday school classes sitting in cars! Is there anyone around who attended this church, or who remembers it? Email me at apnilsen@gmail. com or call me at 510-238-3371 if you can tell me anything more about this! Adam Nilsen is a Pleasant Hill native and
A child seated on the bundles of boards awaiting reassembly.
a history researcher at the Oakland Museum of California. He is the author of Pleasant Hill, a history of the community, available at local bookstores and through the Friends of Rodgers Ranch.
The completed church.
Sale exp. 8/31/10
Free In-Home Estimates โ ข Financing Available
Carpet โ ข Hardwood โ ข Vinyl โ ข Laminate โ ข Tile โ ข Dustless Floor Refinishing Window Coverings โ ข Wine Cellars โ ข Countertops โ ข Cabinets and more!
Visit our online gallery at www.scottftc.com s #ONTRA #OSTA "LVD s 0LEASANT (ILL #! A Sunday school class.
%NERGY SAVINGS BASED ON INSIDE MOUNTED SHADES IN ALL WINDOWS 3AVINGS VARY WITH SUCH FACTORS AS SPECIlC !RCHITELLA FABRIC WINDOW 2 VALUE AND CLIMATE &OR TAX CREDIT DETAILS AND RESTRICTIONS AND A LIST OF QUALIFYING PRODUCTS ASK A SALESPERSON OR CHECK OUT THE -ANUFACTURER S #ERTIlCATION 3TATEMENT AND &!1S AT HUNTERDOUGLAS COM TAXCREDIT (UNTER $OUGLAS AND ITS DEALERS ARE NOT TAX ADVISORS #ONSULT A TAX PROFESSIONAL REGARDING YOUR INDIVIDUAL TAX SITUATION AND ABILITY TO CLAIM A TAX CREDIT RELATED TO THE PURCHASE OF THE QUALIFYING $UETTE !RCHITELLA HONEYCOMB SHADES WITH !RCHITELLA FABRIC ร (UNTER $OUGLAS ยง 2EGISTERED TRADEMARK OF (UNTER $OUGLAS
July 2010
www.pleasanthillcommunityfocus.com
PHCF Gives Grant Awards By Betty Geishirt Cantrell
The Pleasant Hill Community Foundation has presented its annual Community Grant Awards to seven organizations throughout our community. These recent awardees meet a variety of needs across Pleasant Hill. • An adult reading program was funded for Project Second Chance. • New software will enhance the capabilities of the Pleasant Hill Fourth of July Commission. • A grant to the Vagabond Players will allow them to entertain our seniors. • A 6th grade classroom at Sequoia M.S. will have a pull down map displaying an updated image of the world. • Robert Shearer Preschool will be able to update some of its equipment for the children it serves. • Pleasant Hill CERT will receive new software to allow its website to be updated to more effectively communicate information on emergencies.
• A 4th grade classroom at Strandwood Elementary School will receive an interactive white board to assist the teacher in educating her students. Community Grants Award Chair, Jill Anderson, said, “The Foundation is pleased to be able to provide these grant awards from donations given by friends of Pleasant Hill. We feel that these donations will indeed make an impact in enhancing the quality of life of our community for everyone from preschoolers to seniors.” Please visit our new website at www.PHCommunityFoundation.org to learn more about the Foundation. The website, and many of the photographs on the website, were generously created by Dan Stone of 360Village Online Communications. We thank Dan for his support of the Pleasant Hill Community Foundation and the work we do for Pleasant Hill.
Page 11
A Book Club on Wheels Summer is here, and with it the traditional family road trip. Whether you’re headed to Disneyland, Disneyworld or somewhere in between, below are some audio book suggestions to captivate and hold the interest of the entire family. Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson - Peter and the Starcatchers Series (Gr. 3 and up) Peter, an orphan boy, and his friend Molly fight off thieves and pirates in order to keep the secret safe away from the diabolical Black Stache and his evil associate Mister Grin. A charming story that precedes Peter Pan. Michael Hoeye – Time Stops for no Mouse: A Hermux Tantamoq Adventure (Gr. 4 and up) When Linka Perflinger, a jaunty mouse, brings a watch into his shop to be repaired and then disappears, Hermux Tantamoq is caught up in a dangerous search for eternal youth as he tries to find out what happened to her. Eva Ibbotson – Journey to the River Sea (Gr. 5 and up) Sent with her governess to live with the dreadful Carter family in exotic Brazil in 1910, Maia endures many hardships before fulfilling her dream of exploring the Amazon River. Christopher Paul Curtis - The Watsons Go to Birmingham--1963 (Gr. 4 and up) This story is a road trip itself, as the family drives to visit Grandma in Alabama and stumbles into the middle of history. Rick Riordan - Percy Jackson and the Olympians Series (Gr. 5 and up) After learning that he is the son of a mortal woman and Poseidon, god of the sea, twelve-year-old Percy is sent to a summer camp for demigods like himself, and joins his new friends on a quest to prevent a war between the gods. Lemony Snicket - A Series of Unfortunate Events: The Bad Beginning (Gr. 4 and up) After the sudden death of their parents, the three Baudelaire children must depend on each other and their wits when it turns out that the distant relative who is appointed their guardian is determined to use any means necessary to get their fortune. Neil Gaiman – The Graveyard Book (Gr. 5 and up) The orphan Bod, short for Nobody, is taken in by the inhabitants of a graveyard as a child of eighteen months and raised lovingly and carefully to the age of eighteen years by the community of ghosts and otherworldly creatures. E.L. Konigsburg – From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler (Gr. 4 and up) Two suburban children run away from their Connecticut home and go to New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art, where their ingenuity enables them to live in luxury.
Showrooms also in Santa Clara & Milbrae
Kate DiCamillo – The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane (Gr. 3 and up) Edward Tulane, a cold-hearted and proud toy rabbit, loves only himself until he is separated from the little girl who adores him and travels across the country, acquiring new owners and listening to their hopes, dreams, and histories. Finally, anything by Roald Dahl is fitting for family as well as the beloved Harry Potter Series.
Page 12
CITY BUZZ An extensive research study* asked California citizens and public officials “Why are parks important to you?” The research, sponsored by the California Park & Recreation Society (CPRS), a nonprofit, professional and public interest organization with more than 4,000 members, was used to develop the first-ever brand of the profession. CPRS members statewide are now launching “Parks Make Life Better!” including Pleasant Hill Recreation & Park District. Overwhelmingly, survey respondents value parks and recreation as an essential community service. Virtually every California household (98%) reported visiting a park during the past year. Forty-two percent visited a park at least several days a week, 26% visited at least once a week, and 68% visited at least monthly. Of these, 55% go with spouse or partner, 53% with kids, 48% with family, 46% with a friend. Only 5% of the users indicated they go alone.
www.pleasanthillcommunityfocus.com
Parks Make Life Better! CPRS used the research findings to develop the first-ever brand promise and brand identity for parks and recreation. The brand promise incorporates the benefits Californians reported as most important: the many ways parks and recreation make their lives and communities better. Specifically, parks and recreation make life better now and in the future by providing: • Access to the serenity and inspiration of nature • Outdoor space to play and exercise • Facilities for self-directed and organized recreation • Positive alternatives for youth which help lower crime and mischief • Activities that facilitate social connections, human development, therapy, the arts and lifelong learning Pleasant Hill Recreation & Park District would like to encourage members of the Pleasant Hill Community to spend the summer enjoying the classes,
4th of July Festivities
Pleasant Hill 7:30am - Firecracker 5K Run, Walk and Kids Dash. All race net proceeds will be donated to the Pleasant Hill school of your choice. There are two ways to register: 1. Register online at www.phjuly4. com or 2. Pick up a registration form at Fleet Feet Sports at 45 Crescent Drive. Your registration fee includes a commemorative Firecracker Fun Run T-Shirt. 9:00am - The Parade! This hugely popular event travels right through the downtown area. 10:00am-2pm - Fun at the Park! Immediately after the parade, head to Pleasant Hill Park for games, food, live musical entertainment and more! Admission is free. 9:00pm - Fireworks. It all takes place at College Park High School, located
July 2010
on Viking Drive just west of Contra Costa Blvd. Admission is free. For more information: www.phjuly4.com Martinez Main Street Martinez will host the 2nd annual downtown Martinez 4th of July Parade & Celebration! Featuring a Pancake Breakfast, Hometown Parade along Main St. and an afternoon of live music, arts & crafts vendors, car show, kids activities, nonprofit organization booths and more! 8:00am - Pancake Breakfast. 10:00am – Hometown Parade along Main Street. 9:00am-4:00pm – Celebration in the Plaza. 11:30am-4:00pm – Live music in the plaza. For more information: www.mainstreetmartinez.org
activities and events they have to offer, from swim lessons, adult sports leagues and bingo to camps for preschoolers, youth and teens. “We’re gratified to have our value confirmed so definitively,” said Katrina Hunn, Recreation Supervisor for Teen Programs and Events. “We’re proud to participate in the “Parks Make Life Better!” public awareness campaign. I know our community will embrace it,
because it reflects how they feel about Pleasant Hill Recreation & Park District and our services.” For more information contact Pleasant Hill Recreation, 147 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill, (925) 682-0896 or www.pleasanthillrec.com. *Information on the study can be found at: www. cprs.org.
Blues & Brews Festival Arrives in P.H. Fans of Blues music and cold brews won’t want to miss this first time event! On Saturday, July 24, from 11am to 6pm, Pleasant Hill Park will be the site of the Blues and Brews Festival. An afternoon where tasty brews will combine with a talented lineup of local blues artists including four-time BMA winner The Tommy Castro Band. Attendees have the opportunity to sample beers from over 20 breweries, enjoy food from local restaurants and listen to great music in a relaxing
park setting. Tasting tickets are $40 and include a commemorative mug and unlimited tasting from1pm to 5pm. Music can be enjoyed from 11am to 6pm - FREE. Proceeds will support the Pleasant Hill Recreation and Park District’s Teen Center and the Pleasant Hill Chamber of Commerce. A free shuttle will be running 10:30am to 6:30pm from the JFK University parking lot off of Ellinwood Drive. For complete details visit the website: www.bluesandbrewsfestival.com.
City Calendar of Events
Architectural Review Commission July 1, 15 100 Gregory Lane Large Community Room, 5:00pm Contact: 671-5259 City Council Meeting July 12, 19 100 Gregory Lane Contact: 671-5267
Civic Action Commission Meeting July 7 100 Gregory Lane Small Community Room, 6:30pm Contact: 671-5229 Education/Schools Advisory Commission Meeting July 28
100 Gregory Lane Large Community Room, 7:00pm Contact: 671-5229 Planning Commission Meeting July 13, 27 100 Gregory Lane City Council Chambers, 7:30pm Contact: 671-5259 Pleasant Hill Farmers’ Market July 3, 10, 17, 24 & 31 Saturdays, 8am-Noon Crescent Drive (in front of Century Theatre) Downtown Pleasant Hill Contact: 825-9090 For Confirmation Visit: www.ci.pleasant-hill.ca.us
July 2010
www.pleasanthillcommunityfocus.com
Page 13
FPHE Awards 2010 Grants to P.H. Schools By Leanne Hamaji
On May 20, 2010, the Foundation for Pleasant Hill Education (FPHE) awarded more than $30,000 to support educational activities in Pleasant Hill public schools. The grants represent a significant investment of funds to enhance educational opportunities for Pleasant Hill students while our schools combat ongoing spending cuts. This year’s grant awards are more than double what FPHE awarded in 2009 and over its two-year history, the Foundation has awarded $45,000 to Pleasant Hill schools. This year, over $30,000 was raised from 291 private donations and the proceeds from special events including Dine Out for Education, Night of Improv, and the Oak Park Restaurant Walk. Those who did not have a chance to give during the annual campaign can give at any time throughout the year. FPHE continuously accepts donations at (visit www.fphe.org). FPHE donors help show that our community values quality education. The 2010 FPHE grants were awarded based on a combination of criteria, including the requests received, number of students impacted and the degree to which the request will support language arts, math, science, or other key curriculum areas. The Foundation received fiftysix grant requests and awarded, in part or in whole, thirty- eight. While the number of requests received from each school varied from none to thirteen, every school that requested a grant received one. Below are the grants awarded and the ten recipients: College Park High School
• Sets of, How to Read Literature Like a Professor, Cyrano de Bergerac, and To Kill a Mockingbird • Two LCD projectors for the Math Department • Literature workbooks and subscriptions to New York Times Upfront Magazine • Sets of, Frankenstein, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead, and The Importance of Being Ernst • Cardio boxing station Pleasant Hill Middle School • Hardware and software updates for Computer Lab Sequoia Middle School • Alternative energy science program and materials • Hands-on measurement and geometry materials • Biographies for the Library • Interactive and vertical planning whiteboard for the Math Department • Art in History program for Chinese, Greek, Egyptian, and Indian cultures • Class sets of, Al Capone Shines My Shoes Valley View Middle School • Computer station for the Resource program • Sets of spelling books Gregory Gardens Elementary • Promethean Board • Learning-to-read reading books Hidden Valley Elementary • Combined grants to cover four document cameras and two LCD projectors • 100 Thesaurus books Pleasant Hill Elementary • Board Math program
• Board Language program • LCD projector and document camera Sequoia Elementary • Sets of, Nature’s Children animal book series • SRA reading program • World Book Encyclopedia • Combined grants for California research materials • Read Naturally program
• Sets of Bob Books Strandwood Elementary • Hands-on science materials • Sets of, By the Great Horn Spoon • Board Math whiteboard • Supplies for Kindergarten garden project • Sibelius computer software for the Music Department Valhalla Elementary • Video project materials • Schoolyard Wildlife Connection interactive program
$20 for 20 Showing Progress By Jaki Jones
In reaction to the State budget cuts affecting our schools, the Martinez Unified School District is seeking community support for its $20 for 20 Campaign. The campaign is a fundraiser intended to save class size reduction in grades K-3 and preserve 18 teaching positions. Leading the way is Campaign Chair, Katie McLaughlin, who said, “I decided to step forward and chair this campaign as my son’s kindergarten teacher at John Swett Elementary, Miss Rangel, was honored as Educator of the Year by our City, and won the First Year Teacher Award for the State of California but at the same time, was given a pink slip. Other outstanding teachers received pink slips in our district, and it’s a shame to have to lose such talent.” Beginning in the fall, all K through 3rd grade classrooms in the district will have 30 students, an increase of 10 students per class. Last year, the City of Martinez stepped forward and provided a
one-time fee for services agreement of $500,000 that saved the jobs of over nineteen teachers and restored class size reduction. Today, the $20 for 20 Campaign is reaching out for community support, asking people to donate $20 (or more if you can) to help save class size reduction and teaching positions. MUSD needs to raise $310,000 by July 30th in order to accomplish its 20:1 goal. If the campaign is unable to reach its funding goal, the plan is to equitably fund one grade level at a time at each of the four elementary schools in the District. As of June 18th, the campaign has raised $68K. To make a tax-deductable donation, please visit www.20for20. org, or mail a check, payable to: the Martinez Unified School District, $20 for 20 Campaign, 921 Susana Street, Martinez, CA 94553. On the memo line of your check please write “$20 for 20” to ensure your donation is credited to this campaign.
Page 14
www.pleasanthillcommunityfocus.com
CORKS AND FORKS
July 2010
Pair Up With La Sommelierre Maria Terry
French Riviera in Summer The Côte d’Azur or French Riviera is one of the most beautiful and relaxing places on earth. This menu is anchored by the classic salad of Nice — Salad Niçoise. And, while the menu may seem daunting, do give it a try. There is a lot of chopping for the salad but no complicated cooking techniques and the rest of the meal is ‘purchase and plate.’ Start off this French inspired meal
Salad
with a classic Italian sparkler, Lambrusco. Light red in color, Lambrusco is low in alcohol and lightly sweet. It is delicious with salty, fatty salumi. Salumi are Italian cured meat products predominantly made from pork, and similar to prosciutto. The word salumi is not a misspelling or variant of salami (sing: salame). Salame is a specific type of salume. Rosé is a quintessential summertime wine. Some like it dry, others like it
Niçoise
INGREDIENTS Vinaigrette 1/2 cup lemon juice 3/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil 1 medium shallot, minced 1 T minced fresh thyme leaves 2 T minced fresh basil leaves 2 t minced fresh oregano leaves 1 t Dijon mustard Salt and freshly ground black pepper Salad 2 grilled or otherwise cooked tuna steaks (8 oz. each) or 2-3 cans of tuna 6 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and either halved or quartered 10 small new red potatoes (each about 2 inches in diameter, about 1 1/4 pounds total), each potato scrubbed and quartered Salt and freshly ground black pepper 2 medium heads Boston lettuce or butter lettuce, leaves washed, dried, and torn into bite-sized pieces 3 small ripe tomatoes, cored and cut into eighths 1 small red onion, sliced very thin 8 ounces green beans, stem ends trimmed and each bean halved crosswise 1/4 cup Niçoise olives 2 T capers, rinsed and/or several anchovies (optional) DIRECTIONS Marinate tuna steaks in a little olive oil for an hour. Heat a large skillet on med-high
heat, or place on hot grill. Cook steaks 2-3 minutes on each side until cooked through. Whisk lemon juice, oil, shallot, thyme, basil, oregano, and mustard in medium bowl; season to taste with salt & pepper and set aside. Bring potatoes and 4 quarts cold water to boil in a large pot. Add 1 T salt and cook until potatoes are tender, 5-8 minutes. Transfer potatoes to a medium bowl with a slotted spoon (do not discard boiling water). Toss with 1/4 cup vinaigrette; set aside. While potatoes are cooking, toss lettuce with 1/4 cup vinaigrette in large bowl until coated. Arrange bed of lettuce on a serving platter. Cut tuna into 1/2-inch thick slices, coat with vinaigrette. Mound tuna in center of lettuce. Toss tomatoes, red onion, 3 T vinaigrette and salt & pepper to taste in bowl; arrange tomato-onion mixture on the lettuce bed. Arrange potatoes in a mound at edge of lettuce bed. Return water to boil; add 1 T salt and green beans. Cook until tender but crisp, 3-5 minutes. Drain beans, transfer to reserved ice water, and let stand until just cool, about 30 seconds; dry beans well. Toss with 3 T vinaigrette, and salt and pepper to taste; arrange in a mound at edge of lettuce bed. Arrange eggs, olives, and anchovies (if using) in mounds on the lettuce bed. Drizzle eggs with remaining 2 T dressing, sprinkle entire salad with capers (if using), and serve immediately.
a little sweet. One of my favorite dry rosés is from a little town in Provence named Bandol. Bandol is light salmon in color and has the aroma of fresh picked strawberries. It also has a lovely herbal quality that is the perfect complement to the green flavors of the Niçoise salad. Sauternes is a French winemaking region that specializes in very sweet, dessert wine. The wines are made from a blend of sauvignon blanc and sémillon grapes that have been affected by the fungus Botrytis Cinerea. Blue cheese is one of sauternes’ best pairings. Stay in the French theme and pick
Roquefort or choose another of your favorites. So, go on. Pair Up! Maria Terry is a Certified Sommelier and Wine Educator in the San Francisco Bay Area. www.LaSommelierre.com
Pleasant Hill Cold Stone-925 288 0388
Limit one per customer per visit. Price Excludes Tax. Valid only at participating locations. No cash value. Not valid with other offers or fundraisers or if copied, sold, auctioned, exchanged for payment or prohibited by law. ©2010 Cold Stone Creamery, Inc. All rights reserved. PLU #49. Expires 02/12/2011.
July 2010
www.pleasanthillcommunityfocus.com
Page 15
Join us at the concerts!
The BUZZ about town
Free!
It’s official; Jack’s is now open and serving breakfast, lunch and dinner! Jack’s will soon become known as one of the best places to dine, relax and enjoy family and friends in our great City! Please go and experience this new restaurant, meet the warm and wonderful staff and owners and spread the word around town. Jack’s Restaurant & Bar can also accommodate small or large groups, private parties, clubs, organizations, and special requests!
Summer Entertainment
Gregory Ln & Cleaveland Rd
Saturday Night Street Performers – 6:00pm till dark July 3rd: Keith Eveslage (comedy & juggling) www.keithshow.com July 10th: Dana Smith (comedy & juggling) www.danasmith.com July 17th: Scotty & Trink (comedy, juggling, escape artist, & unicycle) www.comedyindustries.com July 24th: Dan Holzman (comedy & juggling) July 31st: Marcus Raymond (comedy, juggling & escape artist) www.marcusraymond.com
Website Facebook & Twitter
Want to stay current with the latest news and events in the Downtown? Visit us on the web or start “liking” us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter. Be sure to become a ShopStar member and be privy to insider deals and special offers. Watch for the great bag give-away in July!
Jul 25: Country rock with The Bell Brothers
Jul 18: Time Outs for the kids!
Aug 22: Cover2Cover!! Music from 5 decades
Aug 8: Spin Out! Classic rock
Sep 5: Lava! Hot..hot...HOT!!
Visit www.pleasanthillconcerts.com for all concert information. Jun 13, Aug 22
May 30
Sheila’s
Aug 22
Daycare
Jul 25
Aug 22
May 30 Jun 27
Whether you are dining, shopping or going to the movies we plan to keep you entertained before and after your visit. Below is a schedule of the live entertainment happening Downtown in July. Thursday: Jazz on the Plaza – 5:30pm – 8:30pm July 1st – Jack Pollard Trio • July 8th - Linda Kosut • July 15th Ron Mathews July 22nd – Linda Kosut • July 29th – Trio Gadjo Aloha Friday - Noon - 2:00pm Enjoy relaxing Hawaiian music by Fran Guidry every Friday.
Music 6-8pm!
Pleasant Hill City Hall
Jul 11: Folksy rock with Dream Posse band!
Jack’s Restaurant & Bar
LIVE
On the lawn by the lake at
Jun 27, Jul 11
Aug 8
Jul 18
Casey Strand Aug 22 Chiropractor
Matt Rinn Agency
Sep 5
Magoo’s Gril l
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Sports Bar
Whether you choose to dine in the beautiful open dining room, slide into a private booth, relax in the fresh air of the front patio, or cozy up to the bar, you will be treated to friendly service and great food that can satisfy any appetite! Give Magoo’s a try, where there is something for everyone, and you’re sure to become a regular!
20% Senior Discount All Day Age 60 years and up. Must mention this ad for discount. Business Meetings • Private Parties • Office Gatherings Full Menu Served Morning till Midnight Mon - Thurs 9 am - Midnight • Fri 9 am - 2 am • Sat 8 am - 2 am • Sun 8 am - Midnight
www.ShopDowntownPleasantHill.com
Contributed by: Michelle Kaus, General Manager for Downtown Pleasant Hill
1250 Contra Costa Boulevard, Pleasant Hill, California 94523 • 925.682.4868
Page 16
www.pleasanthillcommunityfocus.com
HOME TEAM
NCS Results
July 2010
X-Country Tahoe Relay
By Chuck Nan NCS Baseball Playoffs Alhambra (Division 3, 14-10) was a No. 6 seed and hosted San Marin (No. 11). The Dogs broke-out for 10 hits in a 5-0 shutout. Robert Stephenson (8-4) started and tossed five innings and struck-out 10. Alex Ward returned from an earlier season injury to notch the save. Manny Goodall, Justin Green and Travis Volpe all had two base hits. Goodall collected two RBIs and Green one, in the win. The win moved the Dogs into a second-round match-up at Encinal, a No. 3 seed. The game turned-out to be a slugfest with the Jets prevailing in the final inning. Alhambra fell behind early but then scratched-back to take the lead late. The see-saw battle saw Volpe blast a two-run home run to give the Dogs, who finished 15-11, a 6-4 advantage. However, Alhambra couldn’t hold the NCS Softball Playoffs Alhambra (Division 3, 15-10) earned a No. 3 seed. The Lady Dogs received a first-round bye as DFAL champions and their stellar 11-1 league record. They hosted Analy (No. 6, 17-8) who had won via shutout in the first-round, 1-0, over Fortuna. The Lady Tigers visited Martinez and continued their run with more fine pitching and stung Alhambra with a 3-0 upset. The Lady Bulldogs mustered just five hits in the loss. College Park (Division 1, 12-12) was a No. 13 seed and traveled to Heritage (No. 4). The Lady Falcons surprised all by staying with the higher-ranked Lady Patriots for most of the game, but fell 1-0. NCS Track & Field Meet of Champions Qualifiers for CIF State Championships Boys: Discus: Zach Coniglio (Alhambra), 176-10, 1st-Place, Shot Put: Zach Coniglio
The College Park Cross Country team participated in the 46th annual De Celle Memorial Lake Tahoe Relay on June 12th taking 1st place in the high school division and 3rd overall. The popular event had 139 teams race around the lake beginning at Highway 50 and 89 with the roundtrip totaling 72 miles. Each runner of the 7-member team ran approximately 10 miles. Total time was 7 hours 40 minutes. Pictured Above: Brandon Qu, Anthony Ortolan, Jeff Bickert, Adrian Cervantes, Will Holland, Cooper Shanks, Kevin Strongman. Photo submitted by Dave Holland
The Basketball Champs
(Alhambra), 57-0, 1st-Place. In the discus throw, Coniglio set a new meet and school record in discus at 186-0. He then proceeded to set a new school record in the shot put at 60-6. Both were at the DFAL Championships. Going into the state final, he was ranked No. 4 in the discus and No. 8 in the shot put in the state. Coniglio garnered a 7th-place finish at the state meet with a throw of 56’11 3/4�. He did not qualify for the final in the discus. 800M: Anthony Ortolan (College Park), 1:54.77, 3rd-Place Ortolan qualified for the preliminaries at the state meet, but did not qualify for the 800M final. Girls: 1600M: Alycia Cridebring (College Park), 4:56.95, 3rd-Place Cridebring sprinted to a 9th-place finish in the 1600M race with a time of 5:02.38. NCS Diving Will Griffiths of College Park finished 1st in DVAL and 14th at NCS. Will ranks 2nd in CP’s all-time high scores for diving. NCS Swimming Girls M.E. Randall of College Park placed 4th in the 50 free and 6th 100 free. Hannah Curran placed 13th in the 100 Breaststroke.
30/243 /. 46 s '59 3-!24 349,)343 s /0%. %6%29 $!9 s ./ !00/).4-%.43
Pleasant Hill
FREE Haircut
for New Clients!
NEW CLIENTS ONLY. Men’s Reg Price: $18; Boys (12 & Under) Reg. Price: $14 Present coupon before haircut. Valid ID Required. Coupon may not be bartered, copied, traded or sold. Not valid with any other offer. Valid at Pleasant Hill Location Only.
%80 s #/$%
Crossroads at Pleasant Hill 2360 Monument Blvd., Suite B; Next to Kohl’s (925) 288-1701
$14
Men’s Haircut
$11
Boys’ Haircut
For Existing Clients Only
The MVP Flight Elite Black 7th Grade Boys team (Tri-Valley) coached by Chris Whirlow, completed their regular spring season with a 7 -1 record. They went on to the playoffs to win the championship.
Pictured from left to right: Kalle Sjogrell, Matt Canalin, Steven Daily, Jaylin Morgan, Tyler Watson, Matt O’Reilly and Kevin Crosno. (Not pictured: Christian Fuca).
KITCHEN & BATH REMODELING Building OFFICE Powerful Relationships SOLAR BUI LDERS & 925-685-2031 SOLUTIONS, INC. CELL INCREASE THE VALUE & BEAUTY OF YOUR HOME 925-260-3265 Excellent Referrals & Photos Available
FREE Estimates Quality Work Over 30 Years Guaranteed Experience Additions • New Homes Partial or Complete Remodeling • No Job Too Small • Design and Drafting Services Owner/Contractor Present For All Phases of Project
Men’s Reg Price: $18; Boys (12 & Under) Reg. Price: $14 Present coupon before haircut. Coupon may not be bartered, copied, traded or sold. Not valid with any other offer. Valid at Pleasant Hill Location Only.
%80 s -%. s "/93
A+ RATING
Lic. #775232 Bonded • Insured
50000 OFF
$
Any Complete Kitchen, Bath or Addition Project One Coupon Per Household. Expires 12/1/2010
15% OFF
Any Partial Remodeling Project
One Coupon Per Household. Expires 12/1/2010
July 2010
www.pleasanthillcommunityfocus.com
Spring Softball Ends
The Pleasant Hill Rec and Park men’s softball spring season ended with the Roadrunners coming out on top of the Thursday night league. The Roadrunners finished in first place after winning the
3
36 Year Member Pleasant Hill Chamber of Commerce
championship game vs. Zio Fraedos. The season came to a crescendo during their final playoff game as the Roadrunners raced passed their arch nemesis, the Bears, where the Roadrunners’ assistant manager, Brian Velzy, made flawless plays in the field and hit for the cycle.
Page 17
HOME TEAM
“Season Ticket” Sports
By Chuck Nan together 18 years ago! Sizzling Through the Pool Prep Athletes of the Year Lisa Ward of Martinez was at it Local athletes were selected by the again as she participated in the 2010 Bay Area News Group-East Bay as the US Masters Short Course Swimming Athletes of the Year for their respective Championships at the Georgia Tech schools, based on athletic performances Aquatic Center in Atlanta. In all, there during the 2009-2010 school year. The were 227 teams represented consisting agency selected a total of 107 young men of 1,967 swimmers. Ward is 46 and and women from the East Bay/Diablo represents the Walnut Creek Masters Valley. Congratulations to all! swim team. Alhambra Hannah Strikes Again Richard Calhoun (Football): 2,319 Hannah Wilbur of Acalanes came within a lone error of pitching a perfect yards rushing and 29 touchdowns. Averaged 7.63 yards/attempt and 178.4 game on May 17 against Dougherty yards/game. Valley. Wilbur, who already has a no Nikki Gentile (Softball): Had .471 hitter to her credit this season, did not batting average, .591 on-base %, .569 allow a hit or walk to the visiting Lady slugging %, 11 RBIs and 17-for-20 in Wildcats. She also struck-out 14 of the steals. 15 batters she retired. The Lady Dons Zach Coniglio (Track, Football and prevailed 10-0. Basketball): Qualified for state Track & Steve Hammond Update Field Championships in shot put and Former Alhambra discus. Was also All-DFAL in football left-hander Steve Hamand basketball. mond completed 2010 College Park spring training with the Jeff Bickert (Running): In Cross Giants but was released Country, was 1st in DVAL, 3rd in NCS March 26. Hammond and 15th in State. Also ran 1600M and then made a few calls and 3200M in Track. is now pitching in the JC Baseball All-Conference Atlantic Baseball League Diablo Valley College baseball play(Independent) with the Camden Riversharks (New ers Josh Nuyten, an infielder, and designated hitter Eric Andrews were both Jersey). Currently, his named First-Team All Big 8. Pitcher record is 1-4 with a 5.15 Harmon Sidhu, outfielder Mitch Petrak ERA. and utility player Justin Manci were In the meantime, named Second-Team. Hammond also anMartinez resident Will Wurth and old nounced his engagement friend Cole MacFarlane were named to his longtime “best Second-Team All Bay Valley Conference. friend” turned girlfriend Wurth is an infielder and MacFarlane from Martinez, Belle plays first base. Greenwalt. Hammond and Belle’s brother have been best friends since they played Pony Baseball
Page 18
www.pleasanthillcommunityfocus.com
July 2010
PHBA Champions 11U HAWKS
AMERICAN STARS
WESTERN CHAMPIONS
The Hawks 11U team took 1st place over Father’s Day weekend at the Manteca BLD AA State Championship.
Pictured are two coaches and several of the girls American players who participated in the All Star game on Saturday, June 5th at Pleasant Oaks Park.
Girls Western Champions
ALL-STARS
14U HAWKS
PIONEER YANKEES
The boys 10U All-Star team took 1st place in the Pittsburg Memorial Day Tournament.
The Hawks 14U Division won 1st place in the annual PHBA Boys Tournament held June 10th-13th.
8U Pioneer Yankees - 1st place champions
Standing: Ben Coburn, Eliezer Zurita-Haber, Coach Greg Coburn, Coleman Shess, Sean O’Donnell, Manager Ken Lombardi, Kyle Ridgway, Coach Steve Giambalvo Kneeling: Carter Monahan, Willy Giambalvo, Nick Lombardi, Braeden Gowdy, Brett Tressen, Devin Shields
Back Row L to R: Dean Jones, Casey Bassler, Garrett Swartz, Jared Fernandez, Grant Smith, Jared Hedrick. Front Row L to R: Max Simmons, Gabe Singer, Jared Puglisi, Jordan Fetterman, Daniel Halsey, Ian Torres(not pictured): Tate Lipnicke
8U PANTHERS
Back Row LtoR: Daniel Sarrasin, Greg Schmidt, Coach Don Wildes, Jack Coburn, Brandon Hutslar, Brian Huitt, Luis Ledesma, Matthew Nissen, Ethan Utler, Zach Reboli, Asst. Coach Kevin Wildes. Front Row L toR: Evan Gravenmier, Mike Pantuso and Brenden Chellew. Not pictured coach Paul Damhesel.
The Pleasant Hill Baseball Association’s first ever 8U girls Panther division played their first tournament in Livermore on Memorial weekend. The team, coached by Mark Rolandelli (manager), Richard Valladoar and Robert Booth, played four teams: The Livermore Smokes, the Almaden Lightings “A” and “B” teams and the Branham Hills Thunders. The girls played remarkable with two wins, one tie and one loss. PLAYERS: Allyson Carroll, Analisa Liotta, Ashley Rolandelli, Bella Grinbergs, Emma Woodworth, Gabriella Williams, Grace Johansson, Hannah Lee, Holly Booth, Kalina Elliott, Madelyn Mays, Madison Valladao, Marissa Raynor, Rebecca Boyd, Sophia Lucio
Front Row L to R: Kacie Gayman, Kelly Dolan, Tailor Simpson, Taylor Perez, Sarah Krasner. Back Row: L to R: Ron Gayman, Eva Florido, Lauren Weiss, Rich Persson, Erin Hamilton, Isabella Garliepp, Edylwise Romero, Natalie Persson, Jesse Perez
Bottom L to R: David Jumper, Jace Davis, Blas Guerrero, Connor Howard, Kyle SooHoo. 2nd Row L to R: Ramon Farias, Nicholas Piro, Vito Magliano, Logan Gowdy, Ryan Mooar, Nikolas Kieffer, Ian Amodio. 3rd Row L to R: Coach Joe Piro, Coach Matt Gowdy, Manager Kevin R. Kieffer
Homerun Derby
Congratulations to the winners of the 1st annual PHBA Boys and Girls Tournament Home Run Derby Boys 8U Division - Dominic Dauchaur - 131 Feet Boys 10U Division - Lamar Merritt Jr. - 189 Feet Boys 12U Division - Sean Campbell - 236 Feet Boys 14U Division - Jack Coburn - 240 Feet Girls 12U Division - Noreen Curran - 158 Feet
This PHBA Page is Sponsored By Kevin & Naomi Kieffer, Realtors
Direct: (925)300-8000 or Homes@EastBayPro.com
Free Online Home Value Reports for Pleasant Hill on the following link:
http://www.EastBayPro.com/Home-Values.asp
Sign up for your report & receive a FREE cup of Peet’s Coffee via email! DRE #: 01330888
PHBA Sponsors
PHMSA Sponsors
July 2010
www.pleasanthillcommunityfocus.com
Page 19
Forming Teams for Pleasant Hill Relay for Life The weekend of Aug. 14-15 will see tents, music and enthusiasm at the Pleasant Hill Middle School when this city hosts its first-ever American Cancer Society Relay For Life®. Relay For Life is an overnight event where teams of 8 to 15 members take turns walking around the clock and
By Eileen Housfeld around the school’s track to raise funds donations from individuals and organifor research, early detection, advocacy, zations in a friendly competition to be education, and related programs in the the team with the most donations. Some fight against cancer. teams bolster their proceeds by holding “Now is the time to form teams and creative fundraisers at the Relay event. Saturday’s 9 a.m. opening ceremony volunteer to help achieve our goal of raising $15,000,” said Kelli Nahas, Senior includes a first lap around the track by Relay Manager for the Pleasant Hill ACS cancer survivors – anyone who has ever office. Beyond being a been diagnosed with cancer. fundraiser, Relay For Life is The most moving ceremony is a an awareness raiser about candle-lit “Luminaria” that takes place the progress against cancer, after sundown on Saturday. The candles Nahas added. “It’s a time to are placed inside white paper bags that celebrate people who have are decorated and bear the names of battled cancer and remem- loved ones who have had cancer. ber those we’ve lost, as well A “Fight Back” ceremony features as to continue the quest community leaders who announce their for cures and promote pre- personal pledges of action, such as to vention through healthy stop smoking or to exercise more – as lifestyles,” she said. an inspiration and challenge to Relay Before Relay weekend, participants to make their own lifestyle team members solicit commitments. People from all walks
Diane Hulsey, a Pleasant Hill resident and a cancer survivor, raises her arms in victory during a Relay for Life event.
of life – friends, families, businesses, churches, clubs, etc. – can form teams and seek sponsorships, Nahas said. Volunteers are also needed to coordinate logistics, find refreshments and prizes, plan entertainment, and help with other organizational tasks. More information about Relay For Life in Pleasant Hill may be obtained by calling Nahas at 925-817-9084 or by going to http://RelayForLife.org/pleasanthillca
Spring Special
v v v v v v v v v v v
FREE ESTIMATES WEEKLY BY-WEEKLY MONTHLY VACANCY CLEAN-UP POST-CONSTRUCTION AFTER-PARTY WINDOWS GIFT CERTIFICATES RESIDENTIAL COMMERCIAL COMPLETE-JANITORIAL
Earth First Cleaning Services Inc. is a green
Saturdays, 8am-12pm
conscious cleaning company that specializes in
an environmentally friendly cleaning approach. The company services both commercial and
residential sites with green certified and color
coded cleaning. It is an industry leader and early adopter of innovative and healthy cleaning and recycling techniques. Earth First Cleaning
Services understands the inherent value and fully supports a “green clean”.
Ea rth First C le an ing In c. 1179 Boulevard Way St B Wa ln ut Cr eek , CA 94 595 Phone: 9 2 5 - 4 7 8 - 8 5 0 0 Fax: 925-478-8505 E- mail: Ea rthf ir stc le an ing @ g ma il.co m
July 10th - Guess how many cherry tomatoes in the jar to win a bag full of market goodies. July 17th - Recipe Contest with great Downtown Pleasant Hill prizes. July 24th - Health Day featuring Yoga demonstrations and a personal trainer will be answering your exercise related questions. Bike to the farmers’ market and receive $1 of Carrot Cash to spend in the market. August 7th - The Farmers’ Market Chefs will be performing cooking demonstrations with tastings.
Downtown Pleasant Hill in front of the Century 16 Theatre We Gladly Accept:
CITY OF PLEASANT HILL
pcfma.com/pleasanthill
1.800.949.FARM
Page 20
www.pleasanthillcommunityfocus.com
July 2010
Local Happy Hour Guide
Discover a New Hangout or Visit an Old Favorite
La Tapatia Mexican Cuisine & Catering
Bar and Patio Happy Hour Monday-Friday — 3pm – 6pm $4 Appetizers • $3 Draft Beer $3.75 Well Drinks & Margaritas $3.75 House Wine
15% OFF
$9.95
Any 2 Item Combo w/Soda Valid Mon-Wed Only No Limit. Not valid with any other discount or promotional offers. Not valid on Holidays
536 Main Street Martinez 925-229-3866
=1BD9>9C 255B 6??4
your entire food purchase Not valid for alcoholic beverages, tax or gratuities. Not valid with any other offers, discounts or To-Go orders. One coupon per visit/per table. Not valid on Holidays
1802 Willow Pass Rd Concord 925-685-1985
of Pleasant Hill
Magoo’s Gril l Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner • Sports Bar
EL TAPATIO Open 7 Days Mon - Sat 11AM - 9 PM Sundays 10AM - 9PM Sunday Brunch 10 AM - 2 PM 40 Golf Club Road, Pleasant Hill • 925-676-2420
www.eltapatiorestaurantph.com
Dallimonti’s Italian Restaurant
)E>41I *8EBC41I @= D? #94>978D
Draft Beer $2.00 • Vino Della Casa $3.50 Martini’s • Cosmo’s • Lemon Drops • Kami’s $3.50 Great Appetizers!
1250 Contra Costa Boulevard Pleasant Hill,California 94523
925.682.4868 www.magoosgrill.com
Drink Specials & HALF off all our appetizers!
JOIN US FOR HAPPY HOUR! MONDAY - FRIDAY 3 PM TO 6 PM 50% OFF ALL WELL DRINKS AND HOUSE MARGARITAS FREE CHIPS AND SALSA
#?>41I B941I @= D? @=
B16D 55B ?EC5 -9>5 -5<< B9>;C &9D385BC
3pm-7pm• Monday-Friday
authentic mexican restaurant
• Join us Monday - Friday 5 Pm To 7 Pm • Live Music Saturdays • Karaoke Every Friday
$5G 1@@I ?EB #5>E
HAPPY HOUR
925.944.5224 1932 Oak Park Blvd. Pleasant Hill
www.dallimontis.com
• Full Restaurant and Bar • Catering • Private & Corporate Events.
2721 North Main Street Walnut Creek, Ca 94597
925-256-7665
We recently underwent new renovations to our establishment & are proud to announce we have just released our new menu. Come check us out.
www.masseswc.com Monday - Sunday 11am - 2 am
You can find Memphis Style BBQ at Smokin Okies BBQ Joint, where the southern tradition of slow cooking in real fire pits produces the best flavored Pulled Pork, Brisket, Tri-Tip, Baby-Back Ribs, Pork Spare Ribs, Beef Ribs, Turkey and Chicken around.
Happy Hour Monday through Friday from 5pm - 7pm 2 Drinks for the Price of One! Includes ALL house wine and house beer on tap. We provide a FREE appetizer to anyone who texts BBQ1 to 69302. Every Friday, we offer an off menu House Special.
Live Music!
Every Friday and Saturday evening! Visit www.mybbqjoint.com/music for a live music schedule. 1941 Oak Park Blvd., Pleasant Hill 925-942-0149 Monday – Friday: 11am – 9pm Saturday: 8am – 9pm Sunday: 8am-8pm www.mybbqjoint.com
Seafood • Steakhouse • Sushi Lounge • Sports Bar
Prices from 1.99 to 2.99
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner-Served Everyday
&<KKT²&JPM²#Q@MT?<T 3pm-5pm
Tuscany Tuesdays Italian Dinner Specials MON - SAT 11am - 6pm and 9pm to close.• All day on Sunday. Bar and Patio Only.
Wine Wednesdays All Full Bottles of Wine 1/2 Price
South of the Border Thursdays Mexican Dinner Specials
Saturday Night Karaoke Starting 10pm
We also offer Custom Menus for: Special Events • Meetings • Award Banquets • Birthday Parties Wedding Receptions • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Parties for all Occasions
www.mrluckysph.com 2618 Pleasant Hill Road 925.933.7778
Happy Hour Specials 4 pm — 6 pm Daily
$3.00 Beer www.kobejapanrestaurant.com 925-705-7065 • 1918 Oak Park Blvd., Pleasant Hill CA
July 2010
www.pleasanthillcommunityfocus.com
Page 21
Get Your “Nine A Day” the Easy Way
THE GARDEN
By Lesley Stiles
Happy Independence Day! How fortunate we are to be able to exert our independence and shop locally for foods grown by people we can actually talk to about how and where their produce was grown, and whether or not their goods have been sprayed. Farmers’ markets are a strong symbol of independence as well as success for farmers’ and consumers alike, keeping the wheels of capitalism moving in a direction benefitting all concerned. Summer heat--kind of a weird summer heat--but essential heat all the same, has hit our growing regions bringing an ever-expanding assortment of ripe, juicy tomatoes. Slow to mature while eagerly awaited, heirloom tomatoes are legendary for superb flavor along with kaleidoscopic colors and varying sizes from tiny bright yellow Sun Gold to mammoth Mortgage Lifters and Brandywines. Doing justice to the integrity as well as flavor of our thin-skinned friends, they must be harvested and enjoyed at their peak! Thick slices of Cherokee Purple on toasted sourdough slathered with mayonnaise and sprinklings of sea
salt are enough to make you stop and catch your breath. Add a slice of dill Havarti cheese and slip under the broiler a few minutes to experience the ultimate tomato grilled cheese sandwich. Caprese uses a bountiful variety of heirlooms, glistening fresh mozzarella and fresh torn basil leaves drizzled with lemon oil, salt and pepper creating instant popularity for the server of said salad. Summer squash, green beans, corn, and the ever luscious and sexy stone fruits of summer are everywhere beckoning with the promise of pursuing “Nine a Day”* so easily you may think you are cheating. Nectarines are abundant in both yellow and white, with the white having a ton of sugar, flowery undertones and the yellow sometimes tasting of soft, ripe mangos. Apriums are a 30-70 mix of an apricot and a plum. Softly orange inside and out with a scant fuzz, the Honey Rich variety is sublime. Abundant at farmers’ markets, they are summer stone fruit at its best. Pluots are the reverse, sporting deep maroon skin and flesh with the sweetness of plums and a touch of tart by the skin. Eaten slowly out of hand, eyes closed, juice popping and running down your
Gotta Dance?
Classes Forming Now! 3ALSA s 3WING s -AMBO s 4ANGO s 3AMBA Pleasant Hill Community Center 320 Civic Drive
676-5200
arm as your teeth sink in, can be the best way to explore this fruit. After that, try making a fresh salsa with chopped apriums, scallions, cilantro, jalapeño and garlic tossed with lime juice and olive oil. They are awesome when spooned onto grilled fish or chicken. Slice pluots and toss with arugula, pine nuts, veiny blue and thick balsamic. All stone fruit long to be pitted, sliced and layered on puff dough with edges rolled up a little, sprinkled with a touch of coarse sugar and baked at *425 for 20 minutes. Share hot with vanilla ice cream slowly melting on top. A proven fact: Fruits and veggies
hold a lot of water adding handily to your hydration process in summer heat. Use it and lose it. * Nine servings of fruits and vegetables a day is the latest recommendation from the new dietary guidelines released by the departments of Agriculture and Health and Human Services. Nine servings translate to about 2 cups of fruit and 2 1/2 cups of vegetables every day. 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.
Summer Squash Sautéed w/Orange and Mint 4 or 5 medium-sized summer squashes, cut in large chunks 2 cloves garlic, peeled and chopped 2 tablespoons olive oil Zest from 1 medium-sized orange 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh mint A couple of chili flakes ¼ cup vegetable stock Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper Directions: Heat oil in a large sauté pan and add the garlic. Cook 2 minutes on medium heat. Add squash and sauté for 3 minutes on medium high heat. Add chili flakes, mint and zest and sauté 1 more minute. Add stock and cover for 2 more minutes. Alternately put everything in the recipe in a pan you use for your grill that may get a bit dirty and set to the side while you are grilling your dinner. Season with kosher salt and pepper. Serves 4.
Sweet and Sour Tomatoes 2 pounds of assorted heirloom tomatoes, seeded and cut into chunks 1 bunch scallions, sliced thin 2 tablespoons of chopped, fresh cilantro 2 tablespoons of honey ¼ cup of seasoned rice vinegar 1 tablespoon of olive oil 1 teaspoon of kosher salt 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon and 1 teaspoon ground cumin Directions: Put tomatoes, green onions and cilantro in a bowl and set aside. Heat olive oil in a sauce pan. Add spices and heat until bubbly, about 2 minutes. Slowly add honey and rice vinegar. Cook for 3 more minutes or until a little thick and gooey. Pour mixture over tomatoes, cilantro and green onions. Season with salt and let sit for about 5 minutes before using.
Page 22
www.pleasanthillcommunityfocus.com
July 2010
Rally at the Capitol
Photo by Debbie Shess
TUE-SAT 10:30 - 6:00 • CLOSED SUN-MON & HOLIDAYS • 2150 PLEASANT HILL RD - P.H.
On Tuesday, May 25, parents and students rallied on the steps of the capitol building in Sacramento to show support for funding of public education. Students spoke of how their lives have been impacted following the recent round of budget cuts and how concerned they are about the future of their education. They spoke about their teachers who have been laid off, the programs that have been cut, the fear that their schools are go-
ing to be closed, and how ill prepared they will be (for college and beyond) if these cuts continue. Senator Mark Desaulnier, Assembly members Nancy Skinner, Joan Buchanan and Tom Torlakson, joined them in the rally. The rally was sponsored by the Pleasant Hill Elementary School PTA, and was attended by parents and students from Pleasant Hill Elementary, Pleasant Hill Middle, Sequoia Middle, and Pacifica Schools.
Girl Scout News
MOLINO’SRAVIOLI Homemade Since 1925
Made the Old Fashioned Way
• 11 Ravioli Flavors & Sauces • Cannelloni • Polenta Pie • Lasagna • Tortellini • Gnocchi • Pastas • Garlic Bread • Minestrone Soup • Great Food, Reasonable Prices
Now Introducing Ravioli of the Week Featuring a different flavor of ravioli at a special price. Not valid with other offers.
Tuesdays Senior 55+ Discount Day
10% Off purchase. Cannot be combined with other offers.
925-934-7075 • www.molinosravioli.com
FREE BOX $2 OFF OF RAVIOLI purchase of $20 or more purchase of $60 or more up to a $7.70 value
$5 OFF
purchase of $40 or more
One coupon per visit. Offers cannot be combined Exp 7/31/10
On May 8th, 2010, Girl Scout Troop 30070 walked the Golden Gate Bridge in a ceremony to become Cadettes. This unforgettable event was attended by 4,000 Girl Scouts from across the United States. Pictured are: Lucy Murov, Mary Rapmund, Shannon Hagen, Annakate Lopez, Reilly Baker, Kayla Bingham, Isabella Palermo, Coral Moreno, Isabella Ianora, Gabby Sandman, Cassie Silva, and Abigail Burns.
July 2010
www.pleasanthillcommunityfocus.com
Travel Safe & Naturally By Myra Nissen, CCH, RSHom(NA)
Vacations are meant to be fun and relaxing. Why waste time dealing with motion sickness, jet lag, injuries or illness? Consider packing a few natural health supplies that can benefit every traveler. Arnica Montana is a great remedy for bumps, bruises, cuts, and any emotional shock or trauma. Arnica is great for jet lag that is accompanied by extreme exhaustion. I always carry some with me. Nux vomica is a wonderful remedy for motion sickness, jet lag, too much alcohol or unfamiliar food. Think of Nux for any condition where the symptoms include nausea with difficultly vomiting which worsens with the smell of food, tobacco, or coffee. It can also help when symptoms include feeling chilly and having a severe headache located at the back of the head and over one eye. Arsenicum album is an excellent remedy for food poisoning or flu. Arsenicum can relieve symptoms including nausea with vomiting and diarrhea. One needing this
July is U.V. Safety Month By Gigi Chen, M.D.
remedy might be restless and desire small sips of cold water. This treatment can help take the focus off one’s condition and put it back on the business (or vacation) at hand. Homeopathy (ho•mee•ahp’•eh•thee) is more than herbs. Remedies are made from small amounts of natural substances that gently restore health and vitality. The names of the remedies may sound strange; they are written in Latin, a universal scientific standard. Used appropriately, homeopathy is safe for infants, elders, and even pets. I offer consultations for remedy kits specifically designed for a traveler’s needs, and address any perils specific to the travel destination. I can recommend remedies for most situations, for example allergic reactions to shellfish, traumas such as broken bones or concussions, and safeguards against tick bites. Call Myra Nissen, CCH, RSHom(NA), Nationally Certified Homeopath, 826.3858 for a free 30minute wellness assessment. www. MyraNissen.com
There are many risk factors for developing skin cancer - environmental and genetic. The factor you can best control to reduce your risk is exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Some experts believe that 65% or more of melanoma is caused by exposure to the sun, especially during childhood. Following is a list of prevention tips. • Protect your skin. Stay out of the sun during the midday hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). • Wear protective clothing. This includes a hat with a brim to shade your ears and neck, a shirt with sleeves to cover your shoulders, and pants. • Use daily a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15. Look for a sunscreen that protects against both types of ultraviolet radiation in the sun’s rays - UVA and UVB. • Use a higher SPF when you are at higher elevations. • Set a good example for your children by always using sunscreen and wearing protective clothing. • Avoid sunbathing and tanning
Thank You Advertisers!
PAID ADVERTORIAL
Matthew C. Rinn, State Farm Insurance The Moulding Company Tamura Insurance Jennifer L. Martin D.D.S. Senior Helpers Sport Clips Pleasant Hill Recreation & Park District Hitchcock Realty RKL Builders Diablo Trophy and Awards Aspire Pilates Center Unity Salon and Spa UPS – Virginia Hills Sam Nisar, Wells Fargo Home Mortgage Kevin & Naomi Keiffer, East Bay Pro Real Estate Tahoe Joe’s
Page 23
salons. • Examine your skin regularly, and have your doctor check your skin during all other health exams, or at least once a year. Detection of skin cancer at early stages is essential and lifesaving. If you have a suspicious growth, you should talk to your primary care physician or dermatologist about treating or biopsying the lesion. Dr. Chen is a physician with Diablo Valley Oncology/Hematology Medical Group which is located in the California Cancer and Research Institute at 400 Taylor Blvd, Pleasant Hill. Pleasant Hill is home to the California Cancer and Research Institute. This state-of-the-art facility with cutting edge technologies is the largest comprehensive, non-hospital based cancer and blood disorder treatment facility in Contra Costa County. The center offers everything from medical oncology and hematology, radiation, chemotherapy, and advanced diagnostic imaging to clinical trials and supportive services such as nutrition and patient education.
PAID ADVERTORIAL
Hire My Husband A Wee Change Coldstone Creamery Downtown Pleasant Hill Pleasant Hill Chamber of Commerce Magoo’s Grill Kobe Japan Pacific Coast Farmers’ Market City of Pleasant Hill Pacific Computer Consultants Land Home Financial Services, Inc. Buena Vista Swim Club Susan R. Petersen, CMT Apollo Shuttle Molino’s Ravioli Scott Floor to Ceiling
Dallimonti’s Mr. Lucky’s Smokin Okie’s El Tapatio La Tapatia Masse’s Earth First Cleaning Navlet’s Becky Xepoleas, Mary Kay Sunflower Massage Spa Air Seal Inc. Matthew’s AAA, Inc. Home Expressions McHale’s Environmental Insulation Jim’s Auto Glass Payless Painting
Page 24
www.pleasanthillcommunityfocus.com
July 2010
Home Improvement & Services Mchale’s Environmental Insulation provides alternatives to itchy fiberglass that insulates better and is good for the environment. Reduce unwanted sound & increase thermal control. Opportunities for rebates through PG&E and a federal tax credit. 30+ years in business. Contact:
Dan Hair 800-427-9780. www.mchaleinsulation.com.
Jim Moran, Owner 925 381-7204 415-431-7204 • Auto Glass Installations • California License & Bonded • Windshield Replacements • 20 Years Experience • Mobile Service • Insurance Jobs Welcome We work on all year, make, models foreign and domestic. Contact our mobile auto glass replacement service for windshield and other auto glass replacement needs.
www.jimsautoglass.com
Jim’s Auto Glass With over 18 years of experience, we pride ourselves in honesty and reliability. Contact our mobile auto glass replacement service for windshield and other auto glass replacement needs. We welcome all insurance claims and will handle the billing for each one. Call and describe the glass to be replaced and we’ll make it look as good as new. All labor comes with a lifetime warranty. Prices vary based on the type of glass and vehicle. Our prices are competitive so call today for a free estimate (925) 381-7204. McHale’s Environmental Insulation McHale’s Environmental Insulation provides cellulose, fiberglass, cotton
and radiant barrier for attics, walls, floors. We also do removal of old damaged insulation. During 32 years in business we have served over 75,000 customers making us one of the largest established and most experienced companies of our kind. Decrease your energy bills by as much as 40% and reduce unwanted sound while creating a more comfortable and quiet living space. Take advantage of rebates from PG&E and Obama’s energy efficiency tax credit. Matthew’s AAA, Inc., Tree Service & Hauling We have been serving the East Bay for 25 years. We offer a full line of landscaping services including stump removal, masonry, brick wall
Hire My Husband
All kinds of Interior and Exterior handyman projects.
• Interior Painting • Quality Home Repair Projects • Handyman Services Contractor Lic. # 943231
www.HireMyHusband.com
925-969-0133
and redwood fences, pruning, topping, removing, planting, new lawns, ivy topping and removal, and sprinklers. We also offer brush clearance for fire inspection. We are available 24 hours a day excluding holidays and Sundays. Need assistance? Give us a call, free estimates available. All work guaranteed. (925) 207-9171. Air Seal Inc. Save Up to 40 % on Energy Bills! When applied to the underside of the roof sheathing and attic walls to create an unvented attic, our specialized spray foam insulation creates an effective air barrier that dramatically reduces attic temperatures and humidity, not to mention the stress placed on your heating and cooling system. And it can save you up to 40% on your energy bills! Call now and start your energy savings. (925) 723-0101.
Home Expressions Home Expressions in Concord is a boutique Kitchen and Bath remodeling design center that specializes in unique designs, attention to detail and personalized service from start to finish. We pride ourselves in using wood cabinetry made in the USA…both custom and modular cabinetry to fit any budget. The owner works directly with every client to provide personalized service from 3D design concept to completion. Stop by and visit our showroom today! (925) 521-1000 Payless Painting, Inc Payless Painting, Inc. is a growing family company that has been serving the San Francisco East Bay since 1961. We specialize in both commercial and residential projects and over the last 48+ years we have built an exceptional reputation for quality and customer service which can be seen through our large number of repeat clients and numerous glowing references from home-owners and contractors alike. Payless Painting’s continued success can be attributed to our dedication to giving our clients an outstanding painting experience. 925-935-1176
July 2010
www.pleasanthillcommunityfocus.com
Page 25
Athletes Gain Performance Through The Roof Did you know that athletes do Pilates? Or have you always thought that Pilates is ‘’just for girls’’? Actually, Joseph Pilates was a professional boxer who extensively trained competitive athletes in the fields of boxing, wrestling, gym-
By Tonya Marie Amos, Aspire Pilates Center nastics, circus arts, dance, as well as and efficient quality of movement actors, police officers and people of that allows you to throw the ball all walks of life. The Williams Sisfarther, run faster, and jump higher. ters, Tiger Woods, John England, the Athletics (and life) requires New Jersey Nets, Orlando Magic, the the dynamic, multi-dimensional Green Bay Packers, the Detroit Lions, movement of our bodies. In sports, the Milwaukee Brewers, and closer movements are not simple and twoto home, the UC Berkeley Golden dimensional. Tackling and hitting Bears, all use Pilates as an integral require rotation and torquing in part of their training. any given direction with force. That Pilates is a method designed to means that two-dimensional bicep or strengthen the core while increasing hamstring curls and crunches don’t whole body strength, flexibility, and translate into the dynamic, multibalance and emphasizing healthy dimensional movements needed body mechanics. Many commonly for the power and agility of high used training regimens utilize high performance sports. Athletes need to repetitions with heavy weights, folstrengthen their muscles in multiple lowed by stretching (hopefully) to planes and alignments in order to prevent the tightening of muscles. throw a ball effectively, swing a bat, In contrast, Pilates emphasizes short dismount off of an apparatus, sprint reps focused on perfect form and the towards home, or defy injury from a “eccentric” contraction of the mushard hit. cle. (An eccentric contraction occurs Strength and flexibility also when the work of the muscle hapdetermine your speed. You may have pens while it is lengthening, versus a very fast gait, but if your muscles shortening.) The result? A workout are tightly bound, your stride will be with the perfect balance of strength shorter than its potential. And tight and flexibility, a newly found awaremuscles often lead to injury which ness of one’s body in space, topped can haunt an athlete for their entire off with the training of solid, healthy career. Sadly, such injuries can force body mechanics. And healthy, balan athlete into early retirement from anced body mechanics create a smart the game that they love so much.
F o u R T H o f J U LY S P E C I A L
COME CELEBRATE WITH US!
Buena Vista Swim Club Save $150 when you buy a membership. • Quiet, relaxed, shaded lawn setting • Lifeguards on duty - Gated kiddy pool • Holiday Parties, BBQ and Picnic area • No swim team to interfere with pool access • New members receive (4) 30-minute private swim lessons • Private swim lessons. Open to Non-members. Call Steve 949-0826.
For membership inquiries Call Todd 944-0700 197 Cortsen Road, Pleasant Hill www.buenavistaswimclub.org
Pilates can help prevent injuries and can also help strengthen an athlete after they have “recovered” to regain their pre-injury strength, flexibility, speed and more. In addition, using Pilates equipment is a phenomenal resource for plyometrics. Athletes can jump in a horizontal position; decreasing the effects of gravity, while allowing their trainer to help them re-pattern old, bad habits which may slow them down and decrease power. Pilates takes an athlete’s already dynamic body and mind and transforms it from the inside out. What happens when you increase deep core strength, flexibility, balance, and new movement possibilities? An athlete’s game goes through the roof! 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.
Page 26
www.pleasanthillcommunityfocus.com
July 2010
Calendar events Now-August 27th - Fridays on the Main - Cruise In & Live Music. 6-9pm Main Street Downtown Martinez. Classic Cars, Street Rods, Custom Trucks, Motorcycles and live music. For schedule visit www. mainstreetmartinez.org Now-August 1st – “Avenue Q”, a National Regional Premiere held at the Willows Caberet Theatre. Part flesh, part felt and packed with heart. Winner of the Tony “Triple Crown” for Best Musical, Best Score and Best Book. Limited engagement- buy tickets now: www.willowstheatre.org or 798-1824, 636 Ward St. Currently Showing- The 1940s: Kilroy Was Here. Who was Kilroy and what does this all mean? This unique expression and graffiti appears to have originated with the U.S. servicemen of WWII through the Korean War. Current exhibit at the Martinez History Museum, 1005 Escobar St., Mrtz. Hours: T. and Th. 11:30-3pm, first four Sundays 1-4pm. 925-228-8160 or www.martinezhistory. org Ongoing - The Martinez Animal Hospital has a Kitten Adoption Program. The Cost to the new owner is our cost of vaccines & spay/neuter. www.martinezanimalhospital.net. 7/4 - 4th of July in Pleasant Hill: 7:30am - Firecracker 5K Run, Walk and Kids Dash. All race net proceeds will be donated to the Pleasant Hill school of your choice. There are two ways to register: 1. Register online at www.phjuly4.com, or 2. Pick up a registration form at Fleet Feet Sports at 45 Crescent Drive. Your registration fee includes a commemorative Firecracker Fun Run T-Shirt 9:00am - The Parade! This hugely popular event travels right through the downtown area. If you or your group wishes to have an entry in the parade, visit www.phjuly4com for parade entry information. The registration cutoff date is 12pm on June 30. No entries can be accepted after that date. 10:00am-2pm - Fun at the Park! Immediately after the parade, head to Pleasant Hill Park for games, food, live musical entertainment and more! Admission is FREE.
9:00pm - Fireworks. It all takes place at College Park High School, located on Viking Drive just west of Contra Costa Blvd. Admission is free. 7/4 – 4th of July Hometown Celebration Downtown Martinez 8am-4pm. Pancake Breakfast 8-10am, Parade 10am, Celebration in the Plaza 11am-4pm. www.mainstreetmartinez.org 7/8 – Mt Diablo Business Women Networking Dinner- Guest Speaker: Mary Jane Ryan “Surviving Change You Didn’t Ask For” For info and registration contact www.MtDiabloBusinessWomen. org . Members $37 Guests $47 Must register by noon July 5th Please no walk-ins. Lafayette Park Hotel, 3287 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Lafayette 7/9, 10, 11 – Grand Fiftieth Celebration at College Park High School- many details on page 5. 7/17 – Keeping It Country- A BBQ at the Mangini Farm benefiting Friends of Rogers Ranch- Lets get that barn rebuilt! Live entertainment, barbecue, beer and wine, raffle and silent auction. 3:30-8pm. Tickets: $50/each, $80 couple. Email rodgersranch@yahoo.com or call 937-3677. 7/24 – Blues and Brews Festival 11am6pm. Tommy Castro Band, Brew Tasting Tickets: $40 (Unlimited Tasting 1-5:30 pm) at Pleasant Hill Park, 147 Gregory Ln. More details on page 12. 7/26 - A Musical and Dance Celebration of Freedom 8 pm - Grown Women Dance Collective presents Fallen Heroes Rising Stars, a Juneteenth celebration, followed by a hosted reception. DVC Theater, 321 Golf Club Rd., Pleasant Hill. Tickets are $16 and on sale now through BrownPaperTickets.com. A select number of tickets are being reserved for local charities. Please contact us for more information. 8/7 – Summer Peddlers Faire – Summer has arrived and once again it’s time for the annual Martinez Summer Peddlers’ Faire. It is one of the largest outdoor antique shows in Northern California. Main Street, Martinez 8am-4pm 8/7- The Third Annual Martinez Beaver Festival- A family event celebrating the relationship between our beavers, the
community and the watershed. There will be music, environmental displays, tours, and children’s activities. Come learn about these famous stewards of Alhambra Creek. We promise you a dam good time! 11am-4pm, Beaver Park @ Alhambra and Marina Vista streets.
AT THE LIBRARY 6/30-8/11 (Wednesdays) - Story Time 11:15am-11:45am. This fun story time is tailored for the youngest crowd. Let your child develop early literacy skills naturally as we share songs and rhymes, bounce and tickles, and simple stories. Come join us for this light-hearted story hour just for tots ages 0 - 3. Summer session runs from June 16 through August 11. Pleasant Hill Library 7/1-8/12 (Thursdays) – Preschool Story Time 11:15am -11:45am. Featuring stories and songs to tickle the funny-bone and str-e-eetch the imagination, our stories will transport young children to a world full of fun. Pleasant Hill Library 7/28 – Resume Writing Clinic 2pm3:30pm. Career Coach Deborah Stewart of careercoachnow.com is offering a free workshop to help you get started on this first step in your job search. Coach Deb will be sharing tips and suggestions on how to “avoid resume quick sand.” Your resume must highlight your qualifications and unique skills in the 20 seconds most resumes are reviewed. This content rich workshop will share tips used by recruiters when evaluating a resume and much more. There will be time for a brief critique of resumes “in progress” or those in need of an update. Reservations reqd.
waterpolo coach College Park High School is looking for a Lady Falcon Water Polo Coach for the 2010 season. They were DVAL Champs in ’08 and ’09 with a recent season record of 23 Wins, 6 Losses. If interested, please contact the College Park Athletic Director, Lance Hurtado at hurtadol@mdusd. k12.ca.us
Rec & Park 7/16 – Derby Day 2 pm. Test your engineering skills and design a boat out of cardboard, recyclables and duct tape. All ages welcome! PH Aquatics Park. Pre reg. required by 7/14. $5 per boater. Call 6820896 or www.pleasanthillrec.com 7/16 & 8/6 – Garage Bands at the Lake. Check out local teen bands at the Pleasant Hill City Hall, 7pm. If you are a teen band interested in performing, call 6820896 or email khunn@pleasanthillrec. com 7/23 & 8/20 – Friday Night Family Swim 7-9:30pm at the Pleasant Hill Aquatic Park, 147 Gregory Lane - $3.50-$4 8/15 – American Iron Car Show 10am3pm. Bring your pre-1980s American car and enter the competitions for Best Paint; Best Interior; Best of Decade; Best Engine; Car responsible for the oil crisis; Best make-out car; Best beach car. For more information, call Pam Lischeske 676-5200. Free for spectators; $25 per show car.
YOUTH July & August- Rodgers Ranch Round Up. Experience life on a farm in the 1800’s and learn back to basics lifestyles; Churning butter, making ice cream, crafts and much more. Ages 7-11yr. 2-day sessions- T&Th 9am-2pm $50. Sessions June 22&24, July 20&22 and Aug.3&5. Register at rodgersranch@yahoo.com or 387-0158
CLUBS 8/3 – Pleasant Hill Garden Study Club 7pm. Speaker: Gary Lawrence, Mt. Diablo Beekeepers, on “How to Attract Bees to Your Garden” @ PH Community Center 320 Civic Dr. Guests are welcome. www.phgsc.com & 944-4898 7/8 – Pleasant Hill Library Book ClubSecond Tuesday of every month, 6:30 p.m. Free
July 2010
www.pleasanthillcommunityfocus.com
Page 27
Announcements Caitlin Carnes you are AMAZING! We
Congratulations Kelly Anne Piol from
ful spirit continue to make a positive
are so proud of you and we know you
your Mom, Dad, Kevin and Bree, Ryan,
impression on a generation of Pleasant
will go forth and do great things! Love
James and Katie. We are all so very
Hill residents.
you forever--Mom, Dad, Savannah and
proud of you. Good luck with school and
Marbles
soccer at CSUMB. Go Otters!
Congratulations, Victoria Elise Rios! We couldn’t be more proud! Looking
Allie Maeyama, We are so proud of you!
forward to seeing where the next leg of
Your dream has come true,you’re going
your journey takes you. All our Love,
to ASU! Shoot for the moon, if you miss,
Mom, Dad, Nicole, Robert, Richard,
you will still land on a star! Hugs, love you,
Schmoe, Mayla and Tito
Mom & Dad
Congratulations Jesse Allen James
LOVING CONGRATULATIONS
Tibbetts – College Park High School Class
MARINA OTA! Like a butterfly emerging
of 2010. We are so proud of you! “Wher-
from its cocoon, You enter the world after
ever you go, go with all your heart.” Love
4 years of high school, Ready to spread
always - Dad, Mom, Melissa, Cyndi and
your wings and learn to fly! Love, Mom,
Tristan.
Congratulations - Cameron Wate!
Congratulations Hayley on your Strand-
College Park High School - Class of 2010.
wood 5th grade graduation. Great job!
We are so proud of you! Your journey is
You make the world a better place and
just beginning! Love you,Mom, Dad and
will go on to do great things. We love
Christopher
Congratulations to Tod and Caroline
you. Mom, Grammy, Uncle Steve, and
College Park grad: Adam Yee
Gomes! On May 25th, after10 years
It’s time for congratulations.
of trying to conceive, Caroline gave
Congrats Jenesys, a Strandwood Grad..
My son is headed for graduation.
birth to a 5.1 pound, 17 ¾ inches baby
We are so proud of you! From Tammy
From Taekwondo to music to cooking
Gingie.
Rodriguez Congratulations Adam! You are DONE with high school. Go and conquer the world. Let your true colors shine through. (But first...clean up on isle 5) Call us some-
Dad & Kevin
boy! While enduring the complications of artificial insemination procedures, a
Your future’s very bright looking You’ve always made us proud A big HURRAH, right out loud. Love, Mom and Dad
time! Love Mom and Dad
misdiagnosis and discouraging doctors, Happy Birthday Dodie On July 5,
Caroline and Tod remained hopeful and
Dodie Jones of Pleasant Hill Recreation
optimistic and today, are completely
+ Park District will celebrate a milestone
delighted at the birth of their first child.
birthday. Dodie’s joie de vivre and youth-
Welcome Lucas Alan Gomes!
Eagle Scouts, Will Holland and Steven St. Germain
Jenna McBee we are bursting with pride over your graduation, AAUW Scholarship, and acceptance to Cal Poly! We love you so much and wish you great success! Mom, Dad, Grandma, Uncle Todd, Kelly, Jenna, Nick and Noah
Rebecca O’Neill - College Park HS, Class of 2010 Congratulations Becca! You made it all happen! Smile, give yourself an approving nod, and a resounding “HURRAH!” Everyone is celebrating all your hard work and accomplishments throughout high school. HAPPY GRADUATION!...now go have a great summer! ALPriscilla Rodriguez, CPHS - Congratulations! Our wish for you is that this life becomes all you want it to. Dream big, dream strong, the world is yours to conquer. We’re so proud of you, Mom, Dad, Monica and Anthony
WAYS with you – Mom, Dad, and Cynthia College Park grad: Brandon Barisof Brandon: Congratulations! We are very proud of you and wish you all the best in the future. Time has flown by but the memories will be forever! Love, mom, dad, Diana & Reese
The road to Eagle is more like a long and winding trail. It’s far from easy, but then anything worth having is worth working for. ( Eagle Scout is the highest rank that can be attained by Scouts. Only 4% of youth who join scouting earn this honor.) For the past 10 years both Will and Steven have managed to balance life while participating in the scouting program displaying unique abilities to exceed not only in scouting, but also in the classroom, on the athletic field, in the community and clearly within the family. As both enter their senior year at College Park High School, they embark on fine-tuning their skills to prepare for the college years ahead. That next step will be a bit easier thanks to the positive attributes scouting has taught them.
Page 28
AS RUSS SEES IT The other day I was making a deposit at the bank. I could have done it through the ATM but I wanted the teller to see that I actually had a paycheck to deposit instead of my normal unemployment check. Yes, showing off just a bit and enjoying it. She was either unimpressed or well trained to not respond to show-offs, and handled my transaction in record time. It all happened so fast that I forgot to have her break a $100 bill so I could buy lunch at the little deli next door. (The chicken katsu on Thursdays is fantastic!) I casually whipped out my Ben Franklin acting as if I had several more in my pocket and asked for change, to which she replied, “I can’t take money in and then give money back.” My response was a quick, “Pardon me,” (a phrase I usually reserve for post belch) “I just need change.” She switched to her stern-teacher tone of voice and
www.pleasanthillcommunityfocus.com
July 2010
Are You Kidding Me? By Russell Carroll spoke to me slowly as though I had back,” she said. “I will be right here!” I trouble understanding her and said, replied. She stormed back to the rear “I cannot take in money and then give of the bank where Mrs. Scrooge was money back.” I felt that she switched to sitting at a desk that looked like it was teacher tone too quickly and with my built around her and I watched them frustration escalating, I asked, “Is this discuss my absurd request. The teller not a bank anymore? I thought that turned and pointed at me as if I was in was part of the business model here. a police line-up and then returned to I could put money in and get money the discussion with Mrs. Scrooge. The out.” She sat up a bit straighter on her eyes of the people in line behind me lounge-singer style stool and said, “I were burning into my back as if I was am sorry Mr. Carroll. Is there somethe problem here! The teller turned on thing else I could help you with today?” her heel in a move worthy of Michael I was being dismissed for trying to get Jackson and headed back my way. The change from a bank! “Yes,” I replied. look on her face was clear. The score: “I need change for this $100 bill so I Bank 1, Russ 0. “Unfortunately, Mr. can go next door and get my chicken Carroll, it’s against bank policy to take katsu before they run out. Is there money in and then give money back.” someone you could ask about doing I wonder if there is a page two to this this for me?” Now I’ve done it. Little training manual because she couldn’t metal drawers slammed closed and get past this single response. “OK,” she turned more locks than an apartI said. “Could I make a deposit and ment door in Harlem. “I will be right then withdraw the money?” I could
see the wheels turning and smell the smoke as she processed this angle in her Customer Service Representative mind and she replied, “Yes, we could do that.” I turned to the guy behind me in line and threw down a Tiger Woods like fist pump and resounding “YES!” as if I’d just won the lottery. I filled out a deposit slip for $100 and included the $100 withdrawal. Quicker than you can say, “Is that the lamest policy you have ever heard of” I had my five $20 bills. Teller Queen looked a bit defeated as she counted them out, but I was just beaming as I headed out for my date with the chicken katsu. Now, I know I could have avoided this whole thing and simply gone to the ATM. But then, what the heck would I have written this month’s article about? But…..that’s just how I see it. You may contact me at: Russ@ pleasanthillcommunityfocus.com
What to Do If You Find a Stray or Abandoned Cat By David Stegman, Executive Director, Contra Costa Humane Society
Contra Costa Humane Society is an animal-welfare organization based in Pleasant Hill that aims to improve the quality of life for animals through programs and services that help prevent cruelty, relieve suffering, and advocate responsible and humane behavior. Between spring and summer seasons, CCHS receives the highest volume of calls from the public with questions on what to do with a stray cat, sometimes pregnant or with newborn kittens, taking up residence on their property. The burden of responsibility falls on those who are chosen by these dependent, homeless cats. The first step if a cat is found is to contact the Animal Services Department in your city or county and report the found animal, as required by law. Speak with your neighbours and post signs.
Place a “found” ad in your local newspaper (generally free of charge). If the cat is a feral cat (not tame), Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) is the effective and humane way to care for these animals, and ultimately reduces the feral cat population. Often times, a homeless cat can be pregnant or with nursing kittens. Never take a mother cat away from nursing kittens before determining if they are old enough to be weaned. The kittens’ first teeth appear around 4 weeks of age and they will begin trying to eat solid food; however, they will not be ready to wean before 6-8 weeks of age. The best option is to provide food and water for the mother and let her continue to do the work of caring for the babies. Once the mother has weaned the kittens, it is important that she be spayed right away
to prevent another case of unwanted kittens from being born. Sometimes, there is no sign of the mother. If after several hours there is no sign of her, it is possible she may have been hurt, killed, or trapped. Unweaned kittens under 4 weeks old can only survive by being bottle-fed every 3-4 hours with a milk replacement formula called KMR, available at pet food
stores, or goat’s milk, available in the refrigerator case of most supermarkets. Kittens cannot digest cow’s milk and it can cause great digestive upset to their already fragile systems. For more information about this topic and many others, please visit the Contra Costa Humane Society educational articles online at: www.cchumane.org or call 925-279-CCHS.
This is Hope, a young adult female Tortie, who is very sweet and friendly. She’s quite a social girl and loves everyone she meets. She does great with other cats and would also be good with kids. If you are interested in adopting, please contact CCHS at (cchumane.org) where you can learn more about the animals and the adoption process.
July 2010
www.pleasanthillcommunityfocus.com
Stage Door
Page 29
THEATRE & THE ARTS
By Nicole Diestler
I want to stand online, as our New York counterparts would say, to see a local theatrical production. That is my desire for East Bay Area Theatre; I want us to stand, and for local artists to be part of companies that are worthy of being stood for. I long for the day when a ticket to a local production is coveted enough to be scalped. How great would that be? When people are willing to sleep on the street for a chance to buy a ticket…in the obstructed mezzanine… That is a dream of mine. I recently returned home from a trip to New York City. While there, I was fortunate to see a few productions and I am amazed, as I always am after such a trip, of just how artistically competitive and thrilling our local stages are. From actor ability to production value and execution we can compete with the New York City Big Boys. The difference is that New York City has a theatre culture. We simply do not. We have failed to create a community that is theatrically cultured. Do not get me wrong, this is not just a Bay Area dilemma, it is an American Pop Culture reality. We prefer screen stars and their convenient glamour to non-airbrushed stage artists. Nonetheless, I dream of a day when such a culture begins to be cultivated and cherished here locally in a similar fashion to other artistic delights. Picture this: people waiting on-line for six hours for the opportunity to maybe, if there were seats available, possibly get a seat any seat in the house - to experience
a non-musical play. Currently, for productions by a local company in the Bay Area, that would simply never happen. Never. But that is just what I and several hundred other thirsty, Broadway theatre goers did last Tuesday afternoon - we waited, and waited and waited for the hope of buying a ticket to see the show. The going rate for this show: $351.00 for Center Orchestra Seats. When was the last time I was even conflicted about lining up or walking away from a theatre? Never. Here in the East Bay, we do not understand this dilemma. We do not realize that theatre is an experience worth standing in line for. So, I have a question for you and it’s not rhetorical. As a theatre artist myself, and someone who is responsible for what our local theatres produce, I need your response. What is holding us back? In your opinion, what is the Bay Area doing wrong in it’s quest to gain your patronage? What makes you skip over the theatre listings, and “settle” for a romantic comedy film that you know won’t thrill or even provide any unexpected laughs? Is it the quality of theatre that you’ve seen? Sometimes theatre can be like dating: it’s all about first impressions. Is it the offerings that leave much to be desired? Are we too political or too escapist? Do you want to see a musical based on “The Brady Bunch”, or do you want to see a three-person drama set in a POW camp? We want to know what holds us back, so, please, take the time to think about your choices of entertainment, and let me know what makes you choose film over theatre almost every time. Be honest; we can
take it! I look forward to reading your emails these next few weeks, and a future article will include your responses to my question, along with some possible solutions. By the way, I didn’t end up seeing that $350.00 show - a little too rich for my blood. If I’m going to spend that kind of money, I’d rather wait and spend it
on a theatre twenty minutes from my house. Wouldn’t that be something? Nicole Diestler is the Associate Professor of Acting and Directing at Diablo Valley College. Deadline for submissions is the 1st Friday of each month for the following issue. Send information to stagedoor@pleasanthillcommunityfocus.com.
JULY - NOW PLAYING Avenue Q by Whitty, Lopez & Marx (Musical/Opera) Jun 21 -Aug 01. Curtain time(s): Wed 3:30PM & 7:30PM; Thurs 7:30PM; Fri 8PM; Sat 2PM & 8PM; Sun 3PM. Ticket Price: $25.00 - $30.00 This “adult Sesame Street” romp features both puppets and live actors and is known for its high-energy, naughty fun. Produced by: Willows Theatre Company, www.willowstheatre.org Box office: (925) 798-1300. Performed at: Campbell Theatre 636 Ward St. Martinez. Mrs. Warren’s Profession by George Bernard Shaw (Drama) Directed by Timothy Near Jul 07 - Aug 01. Curtain time(s): Tues-Thurs 7:30PM (7/7 & 7/8 8PM); Fri-Sat 8PM; Sun 4PM. Ticket Price: $20.00 - $65.00 Forthright Cambridge student Vivie Warren comes home to discover a shocking secret about her mother and the source of her family fortune. Produced by: California Shakespeare Theater www.calshakes.org. Box office: (510) 548-9666. Performed at: Bruns Memorial Amphitheater 100 Gateway Blvd. at Hwy 24 Orinda. Barnum by Bramble, Coleman & Stewart (Musical/Opera) Directed by David Bogdonff Jul 18. Curtain time(s): Fri-Sat 8PM; Sun 2PM. Ticket Price: $15.00 - $24.00. The worlds of musical theatre and circus fuse into a vibrant celebration of the colorful, creative and driven life of the World’s Greatest Showman. Produced by: Contra Costa Civic Theatre, www.ccct.org. Box office: (510) 524-9012. Performed at: Contra Costa Civic Theatre 951 Pomona Ave. El Cerrito. Speech & Debate by Stephen Karam (Comedy) Directed by Robin Stanton Jun 11- Jul 18. Curtain time(s): Tues 7PM; Wed-Sat 8PM; Sun 2PM & 7PM. Ticket Price: $15.00 - $55.00 In this Bay Area premiere, three teenage misfits in Salem, Oregon, discover they are curiously connected by a sex scandal that’s rocked their hometown. When the trio forms an unlikely alliance to seek out and disclose the truth, secrets become currency, the stakes escalate and their connection grows deeper. Produced by: Aurora Theatre Company, www.auroratheatre.org. Box office: (510) 8434822. Performed at: Aurora Theatre, 2081 Addison St. Berkeley. Guys and Dolls by Swerling, Burrows, Runyon & Loesser (Children) Directed by Marissa Wolf & Dane Paul Andres Jul 24 - Aug 01. Ticket Price: $15.00 - $20.00 This exuberant, irreverent, lighthearted musical comedy with hilarious twists and turns that will take you from the sewers of Manhattan to the heat of Havana. Tickets at berkeleyplayhouse.org. Produced by: Berkeley Playhouse, www.berkeleyplayhouse. org. Performed at: Ashby Stage :1901 Ashby Ave., Berkeley. The Mothers of Ludlow by P. Boesing & M. Boesing ( Musical/Opera) Directed by Boesing Jul 16- Jul 25. Curtain time(s): Fri-Sat 7:30PM; Sun 2PM. Ticket Price: $10.00 - $20.00 World Premiere. This musical drama brings to life the events leading up to the massacre of the striking coal miners and their families at Ludlow, Colorado, in 1914. Produced by: Youth Musical Theater Company, www.ymtcberkeley.org. Box office: (800) 838-3006. Performed at: Julia Morgan Center for the Arts, 2640 College Ave., Berkeley.
July 2010
www.pleasanthillcommunityfocus.com
TEEN SCENE
Garage Band Concerts Return
This summer, Pleasant Hill’s popular free concert series for and by teens and young adults, returns to the lawn outside of City Hall on three Friday nights. The first concert held Friday, June 25, featured three local bands, Macerate, Lobotomizer, and Feast. Upcoming Garage Band concerts on Friday, July 16, and August 6 are being planned now. For July 16, the
Photo Credit Madeline Weiss Pleasant
Derby Day is July 16
headline band will be The Rubber Munchkin Experience. If you know of a local teen band interested in performing, contact Katrina Hunn at Pleasant Hill Recreation & Park District, 682-0896 x 12. The Garage Band Concerts are held at the City Hall Lake on nights from 7 – 10 pm. Support local teen music and help build pride in Pleasant Hill! Here’s a challenge designed for the whole family that requires creativity, originality, recycling and engineering all at the same time. Build a boat entirely out of recyclable materials for 2 to 6 boaters for a race at Pleasant Hill Aquatic Park on Friday, July 16. Teams will use home-made paddles, strap on Coast Guard approved life vests, and paddle like mad in a race across the pool. For Pleasant Hill Recreation & Park District’s third annual Derby Day, teams in five age categories will compete in boats with outrageous themes. Wear your swimsuit and prepare to get wet! Races begin at 2 pm at Pleasant Hill Aquatic Park, 147 Gregory Lane. Entry fee: $5 per boater, pre-registration required. For rules and information, call 682-0896, or visit www.pleasanthillrec.com.
Hill Community Focus Ad
Where experience makes a beautiful difference.
take control Let Navlet’s make pests a thing of the past.
Bayer Complete Insect Killer
15 97 Bayer Bermudagrass Control $ 97 . ............... 17 quart size. mfr #700280B. reg. $21.99................
$
quart size. mfr #704100B. reg. $22.99
For a complete list and description of classes, visit: navletsgardens.com Open seven days a week from 9:00am – 6:30pm Open until 3:00pm on July 4th Concord
Danville
Martinez
Pleasant Hill
1555 Kirker Pass Rd.
800 Camino Ramon
6740 Alhambra Ave.
2895 Contra Costa Blvd.
(925) 681-0550
(925) 837-9144
(925) 935-9125
(925) 939-9000
All sale merchandise subject to stock on hand. No special orders. Offers good through 7/31/10. 1006039-NAV-PHCF-0702-4.78x5.36.indd 1
Page 30
6/18/10 10:33:55 AM
July 2010
www.pleasanthillcommunityfocus.com
Page 31
SuDoKu PUZZLES
MEDIUM
EASY
SOLUTIONS
EASY
MEDIUM
www.sudoku-puzzles.net
SHOP LOCAL • SHOP LOCAL • SHOP LOCAL • SHOP LOCAL • SHOP LOCAL • SHOP LOCAL • SHOP LOCAL • SHOP LOCAL • SHOP LOCAL
BUSINESS SERVICE DIRECTORY Established in 1990
Wood Revivers Fence & Deck Weatherproofing & Kitchen Cabinet Restoration
Patrick Pardee Owner
925-680-2535
Mchale’s Environmental Insulation provides alternatives to itchy fiberglass that insulates better and is good for the environment. Reduce unwanted sound & increase thermal control. Opportunities for rebates through PG&E and a federal tax credit. 30+ years in business. Contact:
Dan Hair 800-427-9780. www.mchaleinsulation.com.
6AN Sã9ARDã7ORK
MAKE YOUR HOME MORE BEAUTIFUL WITH A BEAUTIFUL YARD • TREE SERVICE • HILLSIDE COVERING (CLEARING) • WEEDING • MOWING • AERATING • FERTILIZING • NEW LAWN (SEED OR SOD) • MONTHLY CARE • SPRINKLER INSTALLATION AND REPAIR • DIGGING • PLANTING • CLEARING • HAULING • TRIMMING • INSECTICIDES • FENCING
&REEã%STIMATESãCALLã6ANãAT
Home
Cell
925-709-3206 925-787-5597
Mike Hammer, Owner 280 Crestview Avenue, Martinez, CA Phone (925)229-2779 Fax (925) 370-7638 Free Estimates CSL# 672344
Reigning Cats & Dogs
Pet & Home Care
Lisa DeMerritt • 925-381-5601 reigningcats-dogs@att.net Licensed • Pet First Aid & CPR • Visits • Walks • Pet Taxi Overnight in your Home • Home Security Checks • Pet Waste Removal
July 2010
www.pleasanthillcommunityfocus.com
Page 32