October 2012

• OCTOBER 2012

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Local gold medalist, Melissa Seidemann, signs a poster that will be hung in the gym at her alma mater, College Park High School.

Photo by Susan Wood Photography.

• College Park Celebrates Olympian...............page 5 • Fleet Week & Art Jazz & Wine................... page 10 • Ghost Tours.................................................. page 12 • Diablo Symphony........................................ page 14

• Hear From the Candidates.......................pages 14-19 • Does Music Sway You?.....................................page 24 • High School Happenings................................. page 26 • Halloween Events.............................................. page 30

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October 2012

JULIE SAYS

Keep Calm and Eat Brains

By Julie Ross

(artfully pictured on the site) provide As I browsed through the October the perfect balance of ickyness and issue of Food Network Magazine durcuteness.� I disagree, but I suppose it’s ing my son’s orthodontist appointment a matter of opinion, and I am certainly recently, I fully expected to see creative not going to tell you what to feed your pumpkin recipes that appear this time children. of year. I was taken aback by the “Food Even the ordinarily reputable EpicuNews� blurb on page 36 that referred to rious site has a special offering – Brain the zombie apocalypse, declaring “ZomCupcakes. The instructions include this bies are taking over the food scene.� hint: “Mix a drop of red and black food I had no idea. coloring into the frosting to make it I set the magazine aside and pulled a pinkish-gray brain color.� One then out my iPad to do a bit of research. (Orpipes the frosting into a squiggly pile on each half of thodontist Dr. Jennifer Martin’s office has free WiFi -thanks Dr. Jen!) The zombie apocalypse (where an ini- the cupcake because “brains have two hemispheres, you know.� This recipe is creepy and educational! tial zombie outbreak spreads and causes the complete And here’s just one more: Mental Floss provides breakdown of society) has apparently been this year’s step-by-step instructions for a Bleeding Human Heart media darling.

Dessert and encourages party hosts to “use a big knife Evidently I was missing out on a trend yet again. to slice.�

I had, of course, read the occasional news report of a flesh-eating crime, but was unaware of just how wide- Enough already! Obviously there are plenty of spread zombie coverage had become. A Google search ideas and tips online to get you started on your holiday menu -- your party theme is a real no-brainer this on “Zombie Apocalypse� yielded dozens of results, year. Happy Halloween. many of them food-oriented.

Send comments to julieakross@comcast.net.

One of my favorite finds was “Seven Zombie-Inspired Foods to Eat Your Way to the Apocalypseâ€? on a site called The Stir. One ď€ ď€‚ď€ƒď€„ď€…ď€†ď€‚ď€‡ď€ˆď€‰ď€…ď€Šď€‰ď€‹ď€ˆď€Œď€ˆď€?ď€?ď€?ď€‰ď€‰ď€…ď€‘ď€‹ď€ˆď€‰ď€Žď€‚ď€„ď€’ď€…ď€“ď€…ď€‘ď€‹ď€Œď€?ď€? ď€ ď€‚ď€ƒď€„ď€…ď€†ď€‚ď€‡ď€ˆď€‰ď€…ď€Šď€‰ď€‹ď€ˆď€Œď€ˆď€?ď€?ď€?ď€‰ď€‰ď€…ď€‘ď€‹ď€ˆď€‰ď€Žď€‚ď€„ď€’ď€…ď€“ď€…ď€‘ď€‹ď€Œď€?ď€? such inspiration was Puff ď€–ď€›ď€…ď€ˇď€‘ď€—ď€¸ď€…ď€˘ď€Žď€Żď€Ąď€œď€ ď€žď€œď€… ď€?ď€?ď€?ď€Ľď€…ď€Śď€‚ď€ƒď€…ď€„ď€‹ď€ˆď€‰ď€?ď€§ď€‹ď€…ď€Śď€‚ď€ƒď€„ď€…ď€„ď€‹ď€ˆď€‰ď€…ď€‹ď€Œď€Žď€ˆď€Žď€‹ď€…ď€”ď€„ď€‹ď€ˆď€¨ď€Œď€Šď€… Pastry Intestines. To make ♌ ď€•ď€ƒď€Śď€…ď€… this treat, spread a sweet or ♌ ď€˜ď€‹ď€‰ď€‰ď€…ď€ ď€‚ď€ƒď€„ď€…ď€Šď€„ď€‚ď€¤ď€‹ď€„ď€Žď€Śď€… savory filling down lengths ♌ ď€?ď€Ťď€‹ď€Œď€Žď€¨ď€‹ď€?ď€?ď€?ď€?ď€‚ď€¨ď€‹ď€…ď€Šď€ƒď€„ď€‡ď€­ď€ˆď€Œď€‹ď€… of dough and pinch closed. ♌ ď€˜ď€­ď€‚ď€„ď€Žď€…ď€˜ď€ˆď€‰ď€‹ď€…ď€˜ď€¤ď€‹ď€‡ď€?ď€ˆď€‰ď€?ď€Œď€Žď€…ď€… Lift onto a baking sheet, ♌ ď€Žď€˘ď€Żď€Žď€…ď€—ď€°ď€‡ď€­ď€ˆď€? form an “intestine-like pattern,â€? and bake. The article ď€…ď€†ď€‹ď€Žď€ąď€Œď€…ď€Ľď€‹ď€Žď€…ď€Œď€Žď€ˆď€„ď€Žď€‹ď€”ď€…ď€Žď€‚ď€”ď€ˆď€Śď€&#x;ď€&#x; says this appetizer is “deli   ď€•ď€‘ď€ ď€–ď€—ď€…ď€˜ď€–ď€?ď€? ď€œď€?ď€&#x;ď€ ď€žď€Ąď€&#x;ď€ ď€˘ď€œď€Łď€…ď€… cious yet disgusting.â€? Try it ď€˛ď€Œď€‡ď€­ď€ƒď€¨ď€ˆď€‡ď€­ď€‹ď€„ď€łď€„ď€‚ď€‡ď€´ď€‡ď€‰ď€?ď€&#x; ď€&#x;ď€˛ď€„ď€Śď€‡ď€‹ď€Œď€‡ď€­ď€ƒď€¨ď€ˆď€‡ď€­ď€‹ď€„ď€&#x; ď€˛ď€Œď€‡ď€­ď€ƒď€¨ď€ˆď€‡ď€­ď€‹ď€„ď€łď€„ď€‚ď€‡ď€´ď€‡ď€‰ď€?ď€&#x;  ď€&#x;ď€˛ď€„ď€Śď€‡ď€‹ď€Œď€‡ď€­ď€ƒď€¨ď€ˆď€‡ď€­ď€‹ď€„ď€&#x; and see!

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1

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College Park Celebrates Olympian Story and Photo by Susan Wood Excitement buzzed through the gym on September 19 as Melissa Seidemann shared her gold medal and spoke to the College Park community about her Olympic debut in women’s water polo. Her message: set goals, work hard, and never stop believing in yourself! As Team USA’s second highest scorer at the London Olympic Games, the CPHS alumna helped her team make history with the USA’s first ever Olympic gold medal in water polo.

Melissa began training in 2010, splitting her time between the national team and Stanford. She took the past year off in order to compete at the Olympics. Adam Krikorian, head coach of Team USA’s women’s water polo, said he is thankful to her for making the commitment and pushing through the team’s hard times. “It came with a lot of difficulty for Melissa in the begin-

Showrooms also in Santa Clara & Milbrae

Melissa with (then) College Park’s water polo coach Jason Frediani at the school’s homecoming celebration in her honor.

ning,” said Krikorian. “She struggled with her decision about making the commitment – mentally more than physically. I told her I would love to have her on the team, but it would be the hardest thing she would ever do in her life. However, in the end, it would also be the most rewarding.

“When forming a team, you need understanding, respect, and trust. And it all starts with communication. Mel and I have a very good relationship. She is open and able to communicate, and she is rarely afraid to have a discussion. We have had many respectful discussions over the past couple of years that have been important for me to get a good sense of not only where she is, but where other younger players are coming from. And behind Mel’s strong opinions is a huge, huge heart, and she cares deeply about everyone on the team.”

When asked about Melissa’s future with the national team, Krikorian replied, “I sincerely hope she continues! She is a big part of the team, in and out of the water.

Ultimately, it’s her decision. It would be another great four years for the team, with a large impact on how the team performs in the future.”

Melissa started playing water polo in the 7th grade and has had positive role models along the way. Now, as an Olympic gold medalist, she is “paying it forward” by sharing her story of success and inspiring younger kids to set their goals high. “I’ve always been very competitive and I’ve always wanted to be the best,” said Melissa. “Now I’m working and playing with the best of the best!”

Melissa shared some of her experiences in the following interview: SW: What was the biggest challenge you faced getting to the Olympics?

MS: “Taking time off school was hard. I felt like I was missing out on my senior year. But looking back now, I know it was the right decision, and I’m blessed with a second senior year at Stanford.”

SW: Was being one of the youngest on the team hard?

MS: “I didn’t feel like there was a separation.

The older players shared their past experiences, which helped our team. We learned from their successes and their failures. We trusted each other and came together and played as a team.”

SW: How did you stay focused at the Olympics?

MS: “My family was there. Seeing them when I walked out of the waiting area before games and spending time with them after games kept me grounded.”

SW: What have you learned about yourself?

MS: “I used to be a more emotional player and it was hard to control my emotions in the pool. I check myself more now, which has come with maturity.”

SW: Has water polo changed for you?

MS: “Before I only thought about water polo and just wanted to play. Now it is more about “the team.” We are not just individuals playing. There’s a major focus on team building.”

SW: What advice would you give younger players?

MS: “Find a sport you love and remember

to have fun! Get involved with the community of your sport. It could have a lot to offer.”

SW: What advice would you give parents of younger players?

MS: “Be encouraging of their successes as a team. Be diligent about getting them to practice because we don’t always want to go!”

SW: What now for you?

MS: “It’s too soon to commit 100%. I’m enjoying my freedom right now then I’m going to enjoy my senior year at Stanford. I was having fun being a kid and didn’t really want to grow up. Traveling the world, I’ve had to grow up and become more responsible. I’m going to take a little more time now before growing up any more!”

Olympic Development Program (ODP) National Technical Director Kim Everist runs the pipeline for USA Women’s Water Polo. Everist (a Pleasant Hill resident) was a member of the USA Junior National Team in the late 80’s and has coached and mentored countless girls and young women. She offered some advice to parents of young athletes:

“Let your kids have the freedom to explore their own journey. It’s easy to be protective and afraid our kids might fail.

Trust that they will find their own way.”

“Let them take risks. Once they step outside of their comfort zone, it will change them forever. It will start a ripple effect, planting the seeds for building their confidence and their belief that they can succeed.”

“Let them fail. It’s in our failures that we actually learn life’s lessons, building character.”

“As they continue to grow up, don’t stop letting your kids fall. When our babies are learning to walk, they fall and we pick them up. They fall again and we pick them up… Soon they stop falling, having learned how to stand on their own two feet.”

“When the Women’s National Team failed to reach the medal round at the 2011 FINAL World Championships, they learned from it, pulled themselves up and came back to change history with the Olympic Gold Medal. I work to help girls build their selfesteem and confidence so they can achieve their ultimate potential. And it always comes back to believing in yourself.”

www.ourcommunityfocus.com Page 6

October 2012

Read My Mind © What I Read Last Summer Remember the first day back to school when you had to tell the class what you did last summer? In that spirit, here are reviews of books I read this past summer.

Jennifer Wiener’s The Next Best Thing is the story of Ruth and her dream of becoming a Hollywood screenwriter.

Ruth lives with her grandmother and writes a TV script based on her own life.

Will the network pick up her script? Will her show, The Next Best Thing, be a hit or a miss? Will she meet the love of her life and find true happiness? I’m not going to give away the answers, but this is a book about Hollywood! Sorry folks, this is definitely “chick lit” and I cannot recommend it to anyone with a Y chromosome. (And please don’t ask me to review Fifty Shades of Grey.)

Much to my surprise, I really enjoyed Gillian Flynn’s bestseller, Gone Girl. Imagine you’re Nick Dunn and you

Book Reviews by Michael G. Harris, OD the morning to see Walter’s exuberance wake up on your fifth wedding anniverover the latest blastoff from Cape Canavsary to find your wife, Amy, missing. To eral. Along with everyone in my generamake matters worse, Nick is accused of her murder. Flynn uses a clever device to tion, I was riveted to the TV while Walter shepherded our country through the keep us guessing about what really happened. Alternating chapters are “written” nightmare of John F. Kennedy’s assassiby Nick and Amy as we learn more about nation.

Prior to his television career, them and their troubled relationship.

Cronkite was a celebrated print jourThe book is suspenseful and kept me nalist and radio reporter, most famous guessing about what really happened to for covering the war in Europe during Amy until the bitter end. I recommend World War II. But Cronkite wasn’t perGone Girl to women who love a good thriller and guys brave enough to be seen fect. Brinkley paints him with all his warts and wrinkles. This is a must read reading it at the gym. for anyone interested in the history of the Douglas Brinkley documents the 20th century and the most famous anlife and times of America’s most famous chorman to report it. television anchorman, Walter Cronkite, Unfortunately, I cannot make the in his bestseller Cronkite. (Sorry Ron same recommendation for Rather OutBurgundy.) Cronkite was called “the spoken, the autobiography of another most trusted man in America,” a title CBS anchorman, Dan Rather. One of he earned for accurately reporting the the perils of an autobiography is the aunews with integrity, grace and dignity. thor‘s difficulty in being objective. UnI remember watching the CBS Evening like Cronkite, where we see Walter’s faults News and getting up in the wee hours of

A significant change is under way in our local real estate market. Many distressed homeowners are choosing to keep their homes rather than letting them go to foreclosure or short sale, and in many cases, they are going to great lengths to do so. Given our new market conditions, I can’t blame them and have adjusted my advice when counseling homeowners in this predicament.

As recently as early 2012, many under-water homeowners went to heroic depths to keep their homes, but after crunching the long-term numbers, most financial advisors recommended cutting ties entirely with these toxic assets. It was simply going to take too long and require too many financial resources before these homes could return to a positive equity position.

When accounting for the fact that, in most cases, moving into a rental would save the homeowner hundreds if not thousands of dollars each month, a “break even” point of ten years or more was entirely likely. As a bankruptcy

By Nathan Hitchcock attorney advised at one my foreclosure prevention seminars earlier this year, “A home with negative equity is just a rental with debt.” When faced with a decade of holding your breath under water, walking away or short-selling your home seems not just advisable, but a downright no-brainer.

Fast forward to today’s market, where home values have conservatively risen 15% since the first of the year, and recent sales figures suggest that values are up as much as 20% -- the argument for walking away doesn’t hold quite so much water. The argument takes additional blows from the fact that, in most cases, lenders will readily lower a distressed homeowner’s mortgage payment to be competitive or superior to what one would pay to rent the home.

The knockout punch is quietly delivered by the tax advantages of owning a home, which can easily be worth hundreds of dollars or more each month.

And what if your plan is to someday return to homeownership after a brief

Real Estate Update stay in Rentalville? Depending on your level of optimism regarding the future of home values, consider how much more it will cost to buy back that home you are about to walk away from two to five years down the road. If values go up another 20%, only but the small group of homeowners who purchased at the very peak of the market will find their home costing much less than they paid for it.

So, if you find yourself thinking about walking away from your home, I encourage you to take a second look at the bigger picture. You may find that with aid of the current loan modification and government assistance programs, keeping that upside-down home makes more sense in the long run. If you don’t know where to begin, give me or your favorite local Realtor a call.

We’ll be happy to help you make sense of your options.

Nathan Hitchcock is the managing broker of Hitchcock Realty, he can be reached at nathan@hitchcockrealty. com or (925) 825-1100.

as well as his mettle, Rather Outspoken seems to be a defense of Rather, who was fired by CBS for not thoroughly checking the facts on his ill-fated story about George W. Bush’s Air National Guard service. If asked to recommend Rather Outspoken, I’d “rather not.”

Brad Meltzer’s latest bestseller, Heroes for my Daughter, is a delightful companion to his earlier book, Heroes for my Son. Both books provide inspirational stories about heroes, some famous and some not, designed to inspire his young children. These stories of courage provide valuable lessons for all children and their parents.

I also recommend Making a Difference by Sully Sullenberger, but you can skip Jeffrey Archer’s latest novel, The Sins of the Father. Instead, read his earlier bestsellers Kane & Abel and First Among Equals. They are much better reads.

Now it’s your turn to tell the class what you did last summer.

www.ourcommunityfocus.com October 2012

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Page 7

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

2012 8TH ANNUAL

Thursday, November 1, 2012 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm Crowne Plaza Hotel 45 John Glenn Drive, Concord

Five Chambers are participating in this huge business expo: Concord, Pleasant Hill, Martinez, Lafayette & Hispanic Chambers of Commerce For more information, please contact your Chamber of Commerce, Concord: www.concordchamber.com Martinez: www.martinezchamber.com Hispanic: www.H5C.ORG Pleasant Hill: www.pleasanthillchamber.com Lafayette: www.lafayettechamber.org

FREE

MAKE GREAT CONTACTS

ADMISSION

NETWORK

WITH LOCAL BUSINESSES

FREE ADMISSION

TO THE PUBLIC

gins Dr., Pleasant Hill, 5:30pm - 7pm (Note new time!)

10/6 & 10/7 – 10th Annual Art Jazz and Wine Festival Art, creative crafts, fine wine and beer, great music all day and expanded entertainment for kids! Downtown Pleasant Hill, Sat: 10am-6pm & Sun: 10am5pm. View ad on back page for more details.

11/1 Business Expo - Presented by Concord, Hispanic, Lafayette, Martinez and Pleasant Hill Chambers of Commerce. Crowne Plaza, Concord.

4-7pm. Call the Pleasant Hill Chamber for booth reservations.

10/17 – October Mixer – Massés Sports Bar and Grill, 2721 North Main Street, Walnut Creek

BUSINESS

EXPO

10/5 - Ambassador Meeting Pleasant Hill City Hall, 8am - 9am

CALENDAR SPONSORED BY

10/18 – Board of Directors Meeting PH City Hall, 7:45am 10/29 – Green Committee - Back Forty Texas BBQ, 100 Coggins Dr., Pleasant Hill, 4pm - 5pm 10/29 – Government Affairs Committee - Back Forty Texas BBQ, 100 Cog-

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

10/7 – 10th Annual Shell Run for Education – Sunday, 7-8am registration, 5K/10K Run/Walk at 8:30am. For more information call the race hotline at (925) 313-5562 or register online at www.theschedule.com.

10/8 – Closed Monday – The office will be closed in observance of Columbus Day. 10/11 – Chamber Mixer – Thursday, 5:30 – 7:30pm. Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano, co-hosted w/ Englund’s Catering, 4010 Nelson Ave., Concord. Great networking, food, fun and raffle prizes (bring a raffle prize and have your business announced!)

10/18 - Educational Series – Create the Winning Life You Desire, Thursday, 12pm -1pm. Presented by Cassie McDowell, Productive Learning and Leisure. Doors open at 11:30. John Muir Best Western Inn, 445 Muir Station Rd., $10 to Chamber Members; NonMembers $20. Lunch will be provided.

Please RSVP to the Chamber or email info@martinezchamber.com

10/26 – 27th Annual Martinez Mayor’s Cup Golf Classic – Friday, 10:30am – 7pm. Co-hosted with Main Street Martinez at Roddy Ranch Golf Club, 1 Tour Way, Antioch. For more information call the Martinez Chamber office or Main Street Martinez (925) 228-3577.

Save the Date! Coming Up on November 1st, 5 Chamber Business Expo, Thursday, 4-7pm at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, 45 John Glenn Drive, Concord. Call the Martinez Chamber for more information and to reserve your booth.

CALENDAR SPONSORED BY

www.ourcommunityfocus.com Page 8

PLEASANT HILL CITY BUZZ

Pleasant Oaks Park Update

In early September the Pleasant Hill Recreation and Park District submitted plans to the city for review and approval for improvements to the current Pleasant Oaks Park site at Santa Barbara Road. According to Greg Fuz, city planner, the Planning Commission will hear the project proposal on October 9. The plans include adding an additional full-sized baseball field and fullsized soccer field by leveling the current tiered area in the southern half of the park.

The park, home of the Pleasant Hill Baseball Association, is also widely used by various soccer teams. The project is scheduled to begin just after the regular PHBA baseball season concludes in spring 2013, but will interrupt playoffs and tournaments, so teams will need to find other locations for post-season games. Soccer

will be affected for the 2013 fall season.

According to Bob Berggren, general manager of the Rec and Park District, “We will be installing a new irrigation system and new turf, the parking areas will be enhanced and paved, and an accessible pathway will surround the entire park and also halfway through the park. The district has been meeting with both PHBA and the Pleasant Hill/Martinez Soccer Association regarding the plans and schedule. We hope to be back on the fields in the spring of 2014 for the next baseball season.” Additional features of the renovated park include a new playground, a new group picnic area and additional trees and landscaping. Funding for this project was made possible by the passing of Bond Measure E in August, 2009.

October 2012

City Receives Helen Putnam Award

The cities of Pleasant Hill and Walnut Creek have been awarded the prestigious Helen Putnam Award of Excellence by the League of California Cities. The joint award was presented at the annual league conference on September 5 in San Diego to Pleasant Hill Vice-Mayor Michael Harris and Walnut Creek City Councilmember Cindy Silva.

The two cities received the Helen Putnam Award for their work in hosting “Community Service Day” each year.

Pleasant Hill started its Community Service Day in 2005 and hosted the 8th annual event on September 22. Walnut Creek’s

2nd annual event takes place on Saturday, October 6.

“In both cities, Community Service Day has increased civic pride and demonstrated that people want to get involved and give back to their community. Community Service Day has proven that the power of human energy is unbeatable,” said Vice-Mayor Michael Harris. Hundreds of volunteers gather to give back to their community by working on a variety of projects ranging from school and creek cleanups, food drives, bicycle repair, blood donations, landscaping, tree planting and organic gardening, painting and much more.

Holding the Helen Putnam Award is Vice-Mayor Michael Harris, who initiated Community Service Day eight years ago as Mayor, and Tim Flaherty, Chair of the Civic Action Commission, which organizes the annual event.

A conceptual master plan of Pleasant Oaks Park.

City Calendar of Events Architectural Review Commission October 4, 18 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane Large Community Room, 5:00pm Contact: 671-5209

Education Commission October 24 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane Large Community Room, 7:00pm Contact: 671-5229

City Council October 1, 15 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane Council Chambers, 7:30pm Contact: 671-5229

Planning Commission October 9, 23 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane Council Chambers, 7:30pm Contact: 671-5209

Civic Action Commission October 3 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane Small Community Room, 6:30pm Contact: 671-5229

Zoning Administrator October 11, 25 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane Public Works Conference Room, 5:00pm Contact: 671-5209 For Confirmation Visit: www.ci.pleasant-hill.ca.us

Candidates Forum The Pleasant Hill Education Commission is holding a forum on Wednesday, October 18 for candidates running for the Mt. Diablo Unified School District governing board. The event will take place in the Council Chambers at Pleasant Hill City Hall from 7:00 to 9:00pm.

The five candidates in this year’s election vying for two seats on the board are incumbent Sherry Whitmarsh, and challengers Ernie DeTrinidad, Brian Lawrence, Debra Mason and Barbara Oaks. Incumbent Gary Eberhart is not seeking re-election.

This is the public’s opportunity

to meet the candidates who are running for election in November for the MDUSD Board of Trustees and to become informed on candidates’ positions and qualifications.

Questions will be a mix of those prepared in advance from community input and those submitted the evening of the event from audience members.

If you would like to submit a question to be asked during the forum, please email Martin Nelis at mnelis@ ci.pleasant-hill.ca.us.

The Forum is hosted by the Pleasant Hill Education/Schools Advisory Commission.

www.ourcommunityfocus.com October 2012

Mayor’s Message As mayor, I hear opinions and ideas from both residents and nonresidents on a daily basis. These span the spectrum from how to revitalize the downtown core to keeping the pool open year round and from what streets need to be paved to how to rebuild the marina. And even when most people have similar concerns about their community, they may differ greatly on how to solve the problems. Of all the issues I have faced over the last sixteen years of holding public office, there is one in which everyone seems to be in agreement. Everyone wants a restaurant at the

Rob Schroder, Mayor of Martinez marina.

Tony Laforte. Tony is the owner and op When I first moved to Martinez over erator of Zio Fraedos restaurant in Pleastwenty years ago, there was a restaurant at ant Hill. Tony asked me what I thought the marina called the Albatross. It wasn’t about a restaurant at the Martinez Maria very fancy place, but it had a nice view na. I replied “absolutely”! A few days later of the launch ramp, the food was good I met with Tony and his partner Dino to and the drinks were better. Over the discuss the possibilities and decided that years, the Albatross went through a series they should come to the next city counof operators, and when the last one went cil meeting, present their ideas to the full bankrupt and sued the city, the buildcouncil and see if there was consensus to ing was torn down. The thought was a move forward. Tony and Dino made a new restaurant would be built to replace brief presentation and brought some iniit when we started the rebuilding of the tial renderings of the proposed building. marina docks. If you have been reading The council was unanimously supportive my monthly Mayor’s Message, you know and directed the staff to develop an excluof the challenges we have been facing in sive letter of intent with Tony and Dino to dredging and rebuilding the marina. work on the location and details of build A few months ago I received a phone ing and operating a restaurant at the macall from a gentleman by the name of rina.

Building on the waterfront is not as easy as it might seem, even with the unanimous support of the city council and full funding in place. Regulatory agencies such as the Army Corps of En-

Julio Richelieu Day

Page 9

MARTINEZ CITY BUZZ

gineer, Bay Conservation and Development Commission (BCDC), California Department of Fish and Game, US Wildlife Service, California State Lands Commission, and the California Department of Boating and Waterways all have some jurisdiction over the lands at the marina.

Their review and approval of this type of facility would be required.

City staff is in the midst of discussing some type of facility at the marina with many of these agencies and is looking to see if building on the site where the old Albatross once stood is less problematic from a regulatory point of view. In addition, the underground utilities such as sewer, water and power are already extended to that site.

We are all excited about the prospect of a restaurant at the Martinez Marina.

The support of the community in this endeavor will likely help us through the regulatory maze of these many regional, state and federal agencies.

Upcoming City Events

On September 14, members of the Martinez Chamber of Commerce celebrated “Julio Richelieu Day” with Mayor Rob Schroder, Carter Wilson and members of E. Clampus Vitus (who built the monument at the corner of Masonic and Alhambra Boulevard). Richelieu is credited with inventing the martini cocktail. About fifty stroll participants enjoyed martinis crafted by bartenders at La Tapitia Restaurant, Sunflower Garden Restaurant and Barrel Aged. Photo by Richard Cash Photography.

City Calendar of Events City Council Meeting October 3, 17 7pm-11pm Contact: 925-372-3500

Planning Commission Meeting October 9, 23 7pm-11pm Contact: 925-372-3500

Design Review Meeting October 10, 24 3pm-5pm Contact: 925-372-3500

Zoning Administrator Meeting October 17 3pm-5pm Contact: 925-372-3500

Park, Recreation, Marina & Cultural Commission October 16 7pm-11pm Contact: 925-372-3500

October 8 – City Offices Closed in Observance of Columbus Day All City Meetings at City Hall, 525 Henrietta Street, Unless Otherwise Indicated For Confirmation Visit: www.cityofmartinez.org

Restaurant Tour 2012 Sample tasty treats from 20 restaurants on quaint streets in downtown Martinez on Saturday, October 6 from 1:30 to 4:00pm. Sponsored by the City of Martinez Recreation Department, all ticket sales benefit “Oohs, Ahs, and Giggles,” a series of free after school performances for children. Tickets are $15 and can be purchased through the Recreation Department at 372-3510 or the Martinez Senior Center at 3708770.

The 20 participating restaurants include: Barrel Aged, Marty O’s Pizzeria, Family Kitchen, Pacifica Pizza, Haute Stuff, Sunflower Garden, Hot Dog Depot, Luigi’s, La Tapatia, Compass Star, Legal Grounds Café, Starbucks Lemongrass, Main Street Sweets, Little Hunan, Roxx on the Main, Smokey D’s, Whiskey Lane, Creek Monkey, and California Magic Dinner Theater.

The tour participants should arrive with an empty stomach, comfortable shoes and a loose belt!

Alhambra Cemetery Tours The Alhambra Cemetery is rich with local and regional history. Join a tour guide who will introduce you to families with names you know and some you don’t. Learn about local war heroes, personalities, politicians and a most creative caretaker. Three tours are scheduled and are for adults only.

The tours are free but donations are accepted for cemetery restoration.

Bring a flashlight and dress for the weather. Space is limited to 20 people per tour. Please pre-register by calling Martinez Recreation, (925) 372-3510.

Day Light Tour: Wednesday, October 24 - 10-12pm Full Moon Tour: Saturday, October 28 6:30–7:40pm Halloween Tour: Wednesday, October 31 - 6:30–7:40pm What: Cemetery Tours Who: Adults Only Fee: Free Where: Alhambra Cemetery, Carquinez Scenic Drive

www.ourcommunityfocus.com Page 10

October 2012

Fleet Week Early in October, during the waning days of summer, the windows of San Francisco’s skyscrapers will again rattle as the Navy’s Blue Angels roar into town. Fleet Week 2012 is scheduled to run October 4 through October 8. There are numerous festivities associated with

Story by Bob Fish, Photos by Susan Wood Photography Fleet Week, but the most popular is the practice flight over the bay. On Friday, air show over the bay and the parade of other planes involved in the weekend ships along the waterfront. air show also rehearse along with the This year’s event kicks off on ThursBlue Angels. The airshow itself, featuring day afternoon when the six powerful heart-stopping, high-speed encounters F/A-18 Hornet jets of the Blue Angels between planes, takes place over the bay. conduct a one-hour reconnaissance and On Saturday, you may view the parade of ships with public tours usually from 11am-4pm. At 12:30, the initial air show will be presented with aircraft flown by the Coast Guard, Marines, Air Force and many others. The crowd excitement level escalates severely at 3pm when the Blue Angels make their appearance, lasting about one hour.

On Sunday, the aircrafts perform their final appearance, a repeat of the

Saturday schedule. The naval ships remain open for free tours along the waterfront.

Besides the activities in San Francisco, October 5 through 7, from 9am -5pm, the Marine Corps will display equipment and weapon exhibits at Alameda Point, adjacent to the USS Hornet Museum, located at Pier 4 in Alameda.

The Navy Band Concert will perform “Salute to the East Bay Veterans” near the Oakland City Hall at noon on October 5.

The first week in October promises to provide serious excitement and entertainment for the citizens of the San Francisco Bay Area courtesy of the US Navy and US Marine Corps.

Are you looking for an outdoor weekend activity to take advantage of this fabulous early autumn weather?

Join the festivities in downtown Pleasant Hill on October 6 and 7 when the Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the city of PH and the downtown merchants, presents the 10th Annual Art, Jazz & Wine Fest! With free live music both days, including a Saturday evening concert featuring Cover2Cover and loads of fun entertainment and activities for the children, it’s sure to be a day to remember!

Follow the yellow brick road and balloons, starting at Pasta Pomodoro along the path towards city hall to enjoy the kids’ excitement as they are entertained by Jeremy the Juggler, Germar the Magician, Magic Kenn, Capt’n

Jack, balloon twisting, face painting and more. And, all the entertainment and activities are free!

And what would a festival be without a wide variety of arts & crafts, wine and microbrews? You will want to stroll down Crescent Drive and shop at over seventy craft booths featuring handmade articles. Don’t miss a visit to the premium beverage tent in the plaza across from Jack’s or the wine and beer booths on Crescent Drive.

Judith Sosnowski, event chair, invites you to bring your friends and join the fun in Pleasant Hill; you won’t be disappointed! Visit www.PleasantHillArtJazzandWineFestival.com for more information. Saturday 10am– 6pm and Sunday 10am–5 pm. Please see schedule on back page.

Art Jazz & Wine Festival

www.ourcommunityfocus.com October 2012

Page 11

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

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Oct. 26 – Personal Emergency Preparedness Class 10am – 12pm. A 2-hour personal emergency preparedness class presented by CERT (Community Emergency Response Team). Learn how to prepare yourself and your family to be ready when a major disaster strikes. Topics to be covered: basic supplies, equipment you should have and plans you should make to insure you are ready to meet this challenging time.

Nov. 2 – Annual Holiday Bazaar 9am-2pm/ Lunch: 11:30am-1pm. Featuring a White Elephant section, plants, home décor, holiday decorations, cards, lots of jewelry, a bake sale and our craft group will be selling their creations. Lunch will consist of pasta, green salad, garlic bread, coffee, tea, ice tea and water. Tickets: $4 pre-sale/$4.50 at the door.

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Oct. 14 - Pancake Breakfast 8am–11am. Pancakes or toast, sausage, eggs, orange juice and coffee. Everyone is welcome. $3.50 adults/$2 10yrs. and younger. Handmade crafts, perfect for gifts, will be on sale during the breakfast.

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Nov. 8 – Presentation on Crystal Cruise to Northern Europe, 10am. Learn about the promotional opportunities and ask questions. The trip begins on June 6, 2013 in London, with a two night pre-cruise stay. On June 8, begin your magical seven-night cruise aboard Crystal Serenity to Zeebrugge, Belgium, Amsterdam, Netherlands, Oslo, Norway, Helsingborg, Sweden, ending on June 15 in Copenhagen, Denmark. Included are all beverages including fine wines, champagne, beer and premium spirits, and all non-alcoholic beverages. Gratuities are pre-paid and you will have access to 24-hour room service. Presentation held at the Senior Center.

Pleasant Hill Senior Activities

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Oct. Mondays – Zumba Gold 10-10:45am. This easy to follow class is a lower impact version of Zumba, designed for the active older adult and those new to Zumba. You do not need to be a dancer to participate. Classes are fun and friendly with great Latin and international rhythms. Instructor: Barbara Ward. St. Andrews Church: 1601 Mary Dr. 5 classes: $29/$24 (Senior Club Member). 8-class “Anytime” Punch Card $48.

Oct. 2 - Nov. 6 – Music Reading Class for Singers Tuesdays 8:30-9:15am. Recognize and understand note and rest values, name the notes on the staff and understand meter (time) signatures and key signatures. Learn how intervals look and sound and discover the importance of scales in reading music. Instructor: Dee Wood. Chateau III: 175 Cleaveland Rd. 6 weeks; $18/$12 (Member).

Oct. 4 - Oct. 11 – Cancer: Clear & Simple 11:30am -12:30pm. Registration includes a boxed lunch, informative handouts and raffle entries. Oct. 4 topic: Common Cancers for Men & Women - a look at the most common cancers, recommended screenings and prevention tips. Oct. 11 topic: Living with Cancer - explores treatment options, questions you should ask your doctor and self-management tips to improve quality of life. Aegis, 1660 Oak Park Blvd., Pleasant Hill. $15 class fee. Pre-registration required.

Series brought to you by SCAN Health Plan, Aegis & Manor Care in partnership with the Pleasant Hill Senior Center.

Oct. 28 – Bunco 2-5pm. Potluck at 2pm; Bunco at 3pm. Fun and friendly atmosphere where no prior knowledge of the game is necessary. Buy your ticket at the Senior Center. $4 plus bring potluck item for four. VFW Building, 1919 Wendell Ln., Pleasant Hill.

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www.ourcommunityfocus.com Page 12

The Community Focus was recently treated to a sneak peak of the historical downtown Martinez Ghost Walk, hosted by the dedicated and passionate professionals of Central Valley Paranormal (C.V.P.) History buffs, cynics, amateur ghost hunters and open-minded believers will all find something to love about the newest addition to the charms of Martinez.

The Ghost Walks combine history and rich stories of the past with present day paranormal experiences. Visit the old train depot where thousands of soldiers passed through during WWI and WWII, the original jail, the site of the Hanging Tree, and Alley Cats on Main Street, where the gentle spirit of a former storefront owner, Mr. Machai, can sometimes be discerned.

The Ghost Walk gives participants the opportunity to share in the experience of an actual paranormal investigation with some of C.V.P’s equipment, or guests can bring a voice recorder and a camera for a chance to document some

October 2012

Are You Curious?

evidence on their own. The C.V.P. team has dedicated significant time conducting research and documenting their Martinez experiences to date. Video of a “flashlight conversation” in the old train depot can be found at www. cvparanormal.com. Founder Crystal Willett says, “We’ve barely scratched the surface here,” and investigator Joey Simeao adds that there are still several promising buildings in town that the

Central Valley Paranormal team, L-R Chris, Crystal, Gemma (middle Front, Dave (middle Back), Becky and Joey.

team is seeking permission to access.

In the spirit of October, they will be hosting several tours in the evenings leading up to and including Halloween: October 26, 27, 29, 30 & 31. Tours are open to everyone ages 12 and up.

They begin at 8pm at the Main Street Martinez office, 649 Main St., Suite 106.

Tickets are $25 per person and can be purchased at www.MainStreetMartinez.

org, or call (925)228-3577. Tours will normally be held year-round on the 4th & 5th Fridays of each month.

For an experience that is unfamiliar to most but intriguing to all, bring your family and friends to join Central Valley Paranormal on their next Downtown Martinez Ghost Walk. Leave your fear at home and bring a flashlight!

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www.ourcommunityfocus.com October 2012

Page 13

CORKS AND FORKS

Pair Up Healthy Halloween It’s not often the words healthy and Halloween are put together, but Halloween can be just as healthy as it is fun. Those who know me well know that I love to make soup on All Hallows’ Eve. Add a colorful salad and there will be no guilt splurging on sweets at the end of the evening.

White beans and kale offer protein,

With La Sommelierre Maria Terry him of vodka and grapefruit juice. Its fiber, vitamins and anti-oxidants. citrus flavor is so intense, it can someTogether they make a true super-food. times overpower food. It pairs perBut unlike soups that take all day to fectly with this salad, however; earthy cook, this recipe is so fast it will be beets provide a counterpoint to the ready before the kids are ready to hit fruitiness of the wine and grapefruit the streets. Syrah is a great partner to echoes the citrus flavor. the spicy chorizo in this soup. One This year I am serving ‘healthy’ of the more robust grapes, Syrah has chocolate-dipped pretzels at the end beautiful berry flavors, easily picks of the evening to accompany the usual up smoky oak and can have a slightly chocolate minis. For pairing, once meaty quality. Its dark, almost black again, it is time to seek out the sparcolor indicates an abundance of ankling, pink bubbles of Vin du Bugeythocyanins from the skins of the grape - another healthy bonus.

Beets offer protection against coronary artery disease and stroke, INGREDIENTS lower cholesterol levels within the body 2 ounces Spanish chorizo sausage, finely and have anti-aging effects. When you chopped pair them with piquant grapefruit and 1 cup chopped onion creamy avocado, healthy never tasted 3 garlic cloves, minced so good. Any dish with grapefruit im3 cups fat-free, lower-sodium chicken mediately makes me think of New Zeabroth land Sauvignon Blanc. My husband has 2 (15-ounce) cans organic cannellini gone so far as to say this wine reminds beans, rinsed and drained

Cerdon. Both Kermit Lynch in Berkeley and K&L Wine Merchants in San Francisco and on the peninsula have it. Pretzels are low in fat and the salt will set off the sweetness of both the chocolate and the wine.

So, go on. Pair Up! Maria Terry is a Certified Sommelier and Wine Educator in the San Francisco Bay Area. For more great wines and information please visit Maria’s website at www.LaSommelierre.com.

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4 cups chopped kale 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper Cracked black pepper (optional) DIRECTIONS

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Yield:Â 4 Servings

Beet, Citrus and Avocado Salad INGREDIENTS For the dressing: 2 tablespoons lemon or lime juice 1 teaspoon cumin seeds, lightly toasted and ground Salt and freshly ground pepper 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard 1 tablespoon walnut oil 2 tablespoons canola oil For the salad: 1 bunch beets (about 1 pound), scrubbed and roasted 1 pink grapefruit 1 medium or large ripe but firm Hass avocado, sliced 2 tablespoons slivered fresh basil DIRECTIONS Mix together the lemon or lime juice, the ground cumin seeds, salt, pepper and Dijon mustard. Whisk in the walnut oil and canola oil.

Peel the roasted beets, and slice or cut in wedges. Toss with 2 tablespoons of the dressing.

Cut away both ends of the grapefruit so that it sits flat on your work surface. Cut the skin and pith completely away from the fruit, following the natural curve of the fruit from top to bottom. Hold the grapefruit in your hand over a bowl to catch the juice, and cut away each segment from between the membranes.

Arrange the beets in the center of a platter, and surround with the grapefruit and avocado slices. Drizzle on the remaining dressing, and drizzle any grapefruit juice in the bowl over the grapefruit and avocado. Sprinkle on the basil, and serve.

Yield:Â 4 Servings

www.ourcommunityfocus.com Page 14

Would You Like:

• To Enhance Your Life Personally or Professionally? • To Be Involved in Your Community? • To Do Things for Others? • To Develop New Friendships and Have Fun?

Pleasant Hill Lions Club

Remember: What you give in life, is what you get back!

Lions Motto:

Pleasant Hill Lions Club is having a membership dinner for those interested in exploring joining this award-winning organization. All adults are welcome.

WE SERVE

WHEN: WHERE:

Celebrating 60 years of service to Pleasant Hill

Wed., October 17, 6:30 pm Jack’s Restaurant 60 Crescent Drive Pleasant Hill, California Complimentary dinner will be provided.

To RSVP call (925) 222-5068 or email: LionsClubPH@gmail.com

Pleasant Hill Lions Club raises funds to give back to the community and supports the visually impaired. www.PHLionsClub.org

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October 2012

Anamarie Avila Farias Martinez City Council

My name is Anamarie Avila Farias. I am a third generation Martinez resident.

My husband Isidro owns an architectural firm in town. We are proudly raising our two children in Martinez. I graduated from Alhambra High and obtained a master’s degree from USF. Martinez is a great city in which to live and raise a family. I am running for city council to preserve Martinez’s unique history, while also making important decisions for future generations.

I have a deep love for our community and have contributed in various ways over the past 13 years. I am particularly proud of my 8 years on the Planning Commission. I am also a dedicated public servant with over 20 years of experience administering complex programs and budgets. I am endorsed by Mayor Robert Schroder, Martinez Police Department and firefighters among others.

If elected, I will focus on: Economic Vitality – It’s our small businesses that make Martinez special, and I will promote small business growth in our community.

Neighborhood Safety – I am concerned about the homeless problem downtown, as well as adequate service for our neighborhoods south of Highway 4.

Waterfront Marina – We need a solid plan to pay for the marina that doesn’t burden taxpayers.

Sound Budgeting – While Martinez has a budget with 15% in reserves, costs are increasing faster than revenue. I will use my experience to make certain Martinez remains on solid financial footing.

Please call to share your thoughts (925) 268-8213 or visit www.anamarieformartinez.com.

I would be honored to serve you.

Join the PH Lions Club

As one of the service organizations at the heart of this community, we are excited to reach out to potential new members by offering a membership dinner on October 17, 2012. If you are interested in exploring the idea of joining the Pleasant Hill Lions Club, we welcome you!

Recently, the Lions Club provided a barbeque lunch to forty-five children enrolled in Pleasant Hill Recreation & Park District summer programs. The PH Lions provided breakfast for approximately 600 volunteers on September 22

for the Community Service Day, at the Pleasant Hill Park. The club recently installed new officers. Outgoing President Ken Wombacher, passed the gavel to incoming President, Don Flaskerud, and his new board: Thierry Giuchard – Treasurer, Rich Henne – Secretary, and Sherry Sterrett – 1st Vice President.

For more information on this club, please visit the website at www.phlionsclub.org. To RSVP for the October 17th dinner, please call 925-222-5068 or email LionsClubPH@gmail.com . Please RSVP by October 11, 2012.

Matilda Hofman will make her debut on Oct. 14 as the Diablo Symphony’s new music director-conductor in a concert featuring her predecessor, trumpet virtuoso Joyce Johnson Hamilton, who retired last year after thirty-one years on the podium.

The concert, which will open the symphony’s five-concert 50th anniversary season, will begin at 2pm in the Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. Tickets are $10 for youth and $25 for adults and are on sale at the box office: (925) 943-7469 or online at www.lesherartscenter.org.

Thirty-three year-old Hofman, a lecturer in the UC Davis music department, was selected in June from among four other finalists to lead the Diablo Sympho-

ny, the oldest orchestra of professionally trained musicians in Contra Costa County. She is the sixth individual and the second woman to lead the symphony since it was established in the fall of 1962. Like Hamilton, Hofman is one of fewer than fifty women to hold the music director title among some 1,000 symphony orchestras belonging to the League of American Orchestras in the United States. During the concert, Hamilton will perform Haydn’s Trumpet Concerto. She will return on March 22, 2013 to premiere her composition celebrating the Diablo Symphony’s 50th anniversary.

Hofman will lead the symphony in Dances from Ballet Suite No. 1 and Polka from The Age of Gold by Shostakovich and Rimsky-Korsakov’s Scheherazade.

New Conductor’s Debut

Sunday, October 14 • 2:00 p.m.

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Season tickets available at the Lesher Center for the Arts box ofďŹ ce, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek, CA

COMMUNITY FOCUS CANDIDATE PLATFORM 2012 CITY COUNCIL CANDIDATE FORUM Wednesday, October 3, 7 - 9pm Pleasant Hill City Council Chambers At City Hall Hosted By Pleasant Hill Chamber Of Commerce

There are eight candidates contesting three seats on the City Council in the November 6 election this fall. The forum will provide an opportunity for candidates to discuss local issues and address topics of interest to the public.

Jim Bonato

Pleasant Hill City Council I’m a 24-year resident of Pleasant Hill committed to the betterment of our community.

My business experience and financial expertise as the retired Vice President of Operations for a major United States manufacturer and retired Army Reserve Colonel have given me leadership skills and the ability to embrace challenge. Both will serve me well to ensure fiscal discipline and maintain a balanced budget and healthy reserve fund.

I’m involved in many volunteer and leadership roles in our community: President, Fourth of July Commission; founder, Firecracker 5K Fun Run raising more than $70,000 for Pleasant Hill schools; member and past president of Pleasant Hill Rotary. I was 2007 Citizen of the Year.

I founded and am Program Manager for Pleasant Hill CERT, training over 400 residents in neighborhood disaster preparedness.

As a Planning Commissioner for five years, I’ve reframed our ordinances to preserve what’s best about our neighborhoods and help businesses flourish. As a member of the Economic Development Committee, I’m helping rebrand the city, attracting businesses to sustain our sales tax base.

My priorities include: Ensure fiscal discipline and maintain a balanced budget, a healthy reserve fund and city services. Attract new businesses that boost shopping in Pleasant Hill and increase our sales tax revenue. Protect the safety of residents and businesses My wife Sandy and I have raised our children here and we, too, love Pleasant Hill. I’ll work hard to maintain city services to enhance neighborhoods and keep our community strong.

Visit jimbonato.com

Jessica Braverman Pleasant Hill City Council

Why I am running for PH City Council: To provide a competent, educated and enthusiastic female perspective on the city council who will facilitate a neutral, open and balanced forum for residents, business owners and city workers.

Why you should vote Jessica Braverman on November 6: There is no place like home in Pleasant Hill! I am a homeowner and business owner in Pleasant Hill, and as a city councilmember, I will continue to advocate for this city and its citizens, veterans, and business owners who collectively make Pleasant Hill unique and special.

My mission: I feel it is imperative to have someone on the city council who is not endorsed or beholden to any special interests and is not part of the “establishment.” I provide unbiased and researched opinions and I listen carefully on behalf of ALL the people.

My qualifications: Mediator/attorney/labor relations • Neighborhood watch captain • Volunteer settlement conference mentor for Contra Costa County Superior Court • Founder/starter of the brown bag lunch series for the PH Chamber of Commerce • Spearheaded/started the tree/ plaque tribute at PH Park for slain police officers • Co-captain/captain PH Relay for Life (PH Rotary) • Ambassador of the year 2008 PH Chamber of Commerce • Recent voting member of the PH Government Affairs Committee What I stand for: Empowering our neighborhoods through organized Neighborhood Watch programs • Empowering our business owners through creating a separate PH Business Association Balanced budget/increase reserves and spend $$ wisely • Open/transparent government

VOTE Jessica Braverman Nov. 6, 2012. Your vote adds diversity to the council! www.JessicaBraverman.com or www.facebook.com/JessicaBravermanForPleasantHillCityCouncil E: Jessica4PleasantHill@hotmail.com

Jeremy Cloward

Pleasant Hill City Council Hello, My name is JEREMY CLOWARD, Ph.D. (government) and I am running for a seat on the Pleasant Hill City Council. I grew up and have lived in Pleasant Hill for almost my entire life (38 years) and have been a student and teacher of politics for more than twenty years. As your elected representative I will spend all of my efforts “making Pleasant Hill even better” by working to accomplish each of the following: First, in keeping with my belief that the highest aim of any society should be the EDUCATION of its citizens, I will work to hire more teachers, librarians and counselors, buy new books and computers, and restore diminished or eliminated programs in our arts, trades, and sports programs.

Second, as a father of two children, I know that day care is expensive. Most of us will have children at some point during our lives and it is important that they are cared for in a way that we feel good about and at a relatively inexpensive cost to us. Accordingly, I will work to establish or maintain a free or affordable DAYCARE center for our children at each of our K-8 Pleasant Hill schools. Finally, I will OPPOSE ANY CITY ORDINANCE TO INCREASE TAXES as well as any ordinance which attempts to develop Pleasant Hill into a city that runs counter to our small town roots. Thank you for reading and thank you for your support. For more information please visit me at: WWW.JEREMYCLOWARD.ORG.

David Durant

Pleasant Hill City Council Dear friends, 33,152. Before each City Council meeting – before each vote – that number is in my head. 33,152 – the number of people who live in Pleasant Hill.

For nearly 20 years (13 on the City Council), I’ve worked to make Pleasant Hill more than a small city – to make it a hometown for each and every one of the people who live here. I fought to ensure that we have a safe, financially sound, and attractive city. I worked to have our city government be accountable, open, responsive, customer-service oriented, and structured to meet our needs. I led the way on budget reform, increasing transparency, fostering economic development, revitalizing the local economy, and working to sustain and improve our neighborhoods. Pleasant Hill is moving forward. That’s no accident. It’s a result of hard work, belt-tightening, collaboration, leadership, tough decisions and standing up for what is right.

While I am proud of what we have accomplished, we have more to do. We must continue revitalizing the local economy, making Pleasant Hill an even more attractive place to do business.

Our government needs keep becoming more accessible, effective and accountable. We must balance the budget, provide high quality services, work for great schools, protect our open space, and keep the city safe.

To maintain our small town charm, to keep Pleasant Hill a great place to live, work, play, raise a family and retire, I respectfully ask you to vote for my re-election. Pleasant Hill - Our hometown.

Sincerely, David Durant • www.durant4ph.com

COMMUNITY FOCUS CANDIDATE PLATFORM 2012 Michael Flake

Matt Rinn

Dear Pleasant Hill Residents, I am running for city council and I’d like your vote. With your support, we will improve how City Hall operates and make fiscal responsibility, open government, and quality neighborhoods our top priorities: Fiscal Responsibility The city is currently running a deficit and it is expected to increase. Excessive compensation is the main reason for the deficit. Personnel costs increased over 38% since 2001 while our population remained about the same. I will analyze current staffing levels and compensation. I will review compensation surveys before approving contracts.

Open Government Residents routinely challenge the city to improve transparency. You may recall the issues with Crestwood, St. Theresa’s Retreat, Measure T, and most recently, “Emergency Shelters” and the Allied Waste contract. I will encourage public participation and improve access to information. I will conduct city business in full view of the public.

Quality Neighborhoods We want to improve and enhance our neighborhoods, and ensure the safety and welfare of residents and businesses alike. However, the city consistently allocates more resources to administration. I will prioritize the budget in favor of residents, businesses, and improved customer service. In addition, I will stand against “Stack-n-Pack” housing. Any housing development must be compatible with the character and quality of adjacent neighborhoods.

I have a specific plan for each of the areas above. To obtain a copy of these plans, please contact me at Mike_Flake@yahoo.com. I hope you’ll agree with my platform and support reforms at City Hall.

Best regards, Michael Flake

As a father of two young children, husband and Pleasant Hill business owner, the future of Pleasant Hill is a top priority. I have been involved in many organizations whose concerns have been to make Pleasant Hill a better place to live and do business. Receiving the 2011 Pleasant Hill Business Person of the Year Award was definitely a highlight.

Pleasant Hill City Council

Pleasant Hill City Council

I currently serve as the president of the Pleasant Hill Chamber of Commerce. This has given me great insight into the business community and the opportunities that can help retain and attract new businesses to our community. Being a leader in this organization, I have been faced with making tough decisions that will pave the way for its success in the future.

As your councilmember, I will embrace the challenges we face in these tough economic times and will continue to be an advocate for the Pleasant Hill community. Some of the organizations I have been involved with as a volunteer and/or a sponsor are: Foundation for Pleasant Hill Education, Pleasant Hill Baseball Association, Pleasant Hill Community Foundation, Special Olympics, Contra Costa Food Bank, Christ the King, Salvation Army, Meals on Wheels, Boy Scouts, Rotary Club, Chamber of Commerce, Recreation and Park District and Sunset by the Lake Summer Concerts at city hall, to name a few.

Tim Flaherty

Pleasant Hill City Council I am asking you to elect me as your city councilmember because we live in a wonderful city and I want to continue to work with you to keep it that way. Pleasant Hill has been my home for the last 15 years, and while raising my children and working full time, I also worked hard to make this city special.

As a Pleasant Hill planning commissioner and the long-time chair of the city’s Civic Action Commission, I have proven my leadership time and again by building consensus among the city’s commissioners, by demonstrating patience and allowing all viewpoints to be heard, by communicating in a respectful manner and with a good sense of humor.

Events and programs organized by the Civic Action Commission, such as the Summer Concert Series, Community Service Day, and Community Benefit Grants, have contributed to the economic well-being and the overall quality of life of Pleasant Hill.

I am proud to have the endorsements of all of my fellow Planning and Civic Action commissioners with the exception of one also running for city council.

As your councilmember, I will draw on my experience and work in the city’s best interest. I will preserve the small town feel of Pleasant Hill and its neighborhoods; support our businesses and expand our economic base; keep the city safe and wellprotected; and ensure the city’s finances are secure.

You can count on me to always be honest and open, and to listen.

Vote Tim Flaherty for Pleasant Hill City Council.

Dylan Radke

Martinez City Council Dear Friends, As a life-long resident and father of two young children, I care deeply about the future of our city. Over the last ten years, I’ve dedicated myself to improving the quality of life for our residents by serving on several city and community boards. Currently, I serve as chair of the city’s Parks, Recreation, Marina and Cultural Commission (PRMCC).

Jeremy Cloward Pleasant Hill City Council

ELECT!

In 2008, I co-chaired the successful Measure H campaign for a $30 million bond measure to improve the Martinez Library, improve all city parks and rebuild the Rankin Aquatic Center. Now, we have quality amenities for all Martinez families to enjoy.

Local Government Professor, PhD Grew up in Pleasant Hill

Ensuring our tax dollars are spent wisely is a priority for me. As chair of the PRMCC, I helped oversee the spending and construction of the Measure H projects. To date, all projects have been completed on time and on budget. As a Martinez business owner, I understand the challenges our small businesses face. If elected, I will work to make it easier to do business in Martinez and help build a vibrant local economy and tax base.

Improving Our PH Schools Inexpensive Daycare for our Kids

While we move our city forward, it’s important we get the fundamentals right. That means protecting police services, fixing potholes and making city government accountable and accessible. I have the willingness, creativity and determination to find solutions that address the challenges we face while protecting the unique character of Martinez. I would be honored to have your vote.

If you would like to contact me or get further information about my campaign, please call me at (925) 957-1542 or visit my website at www.dylanradke.com.

Truly, Dylan

NO Taxes on any Resident of Pleasant Hill

Makenna, Jeremy, Mason, & Laurie The Cloward Family

Paid for by “Jeremy Cloward for PH City Council” www.jeremycloward.org

COMMUNITY FOCUS CANDIDATE PLATFORM 2012

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COMMUNITY FOCUS CANDIDATE PLATFORM 2012

Lenore Krause, Vice President, Pleasant Hill Citizens for Responsible Growth (PHCRG) Mike supports improving and maintaining the quality and character of Pleasant Hill neighborhoods and business districts. He is against “stack-n-pack” housing. Please join me in supporting Michael Flake for city council.

Wendy Lack, Taxpayer Activist Mike contributed to the success of the ”No on Measure T” campaign, speaking out and organizing street rallies to raise awareness about this tax measure, which voters ultimately rejected. If you believe city labor costs should be reduced before residents are asked to pay higher taxes, vote for Mike Flake.

Frank Gorham, Member of Park and Rec. District’s Bond Oversight Committee When my wife and I first moved to the Bay Area, it was Mike who suggested we look for a home in Pleasant Hill.

Today we are raising our three children and volunteering in our community to make a difference. We know Mike can affect positive change to preserve and enhance the quality of life in Pleasant Hill for generations to come.

Dorothy Englund, President, Safe Neighborhoods Alliance Program (SNAP) Mike is committed to open and transparent government, encouraging public participation and improving public access to information. Mike answers to no special interests other than the residents of Pleasant Hill. After all, aren’t we the ones our public servants are supposed to be representing? Please join me in voting for Mike.

Rick Melgosa, former U.S. Army Reconnaissance Scout (19 Delta 10) Mike and I served together in the Army. We had each other’s back. I know if you vote for Mike, he’ll have your back too.

For more information send an e-mail to Mike_Flake@yahoo.com Michael Flake for Pleasant Hill City Council, 2012 | 615 Parkhaven Ct. Pleasant Hill Ca. 94523 | FPPC # 1333200

www.ourcommunityfocus.com October 2012

Candidates’ Views on a New Library

The Pleasant Hill Library Fund, a project of the Pleasant Hill Community Foundation, developed a six-question survey asking for the candidates’ views on the Pleasant Hill Library. Two of the six questions with candidate responses are below. Replies have been edited for brevity. To read their complete responses, visit www.phcommunityfoundation.org and click the “PHCF Projects” tab at the top.

1. How does the Pleasant Hill Library contribute to the quality of life in Pleasant Hill?

Jeremy Cloward: Through reading, one can amass knowledge, come to a proper understanding of the world, a clearer view of themselves, and then participate in the world in a meaningful way. In short, reading can help an individual live a more happy life. The Pleasant Hill library can help to serve this end.

Michael Flake: The library represents an institution that allows Pleasant Hill to honor the search for knowledge and care about its children and less fortunate by providing free access to information and entertainment. In addition, the library provides a central location for accessing important documents for public comment, such as environmental documents, especially those documents related to large projects.

Jim Bonato: The sheer numbers of Pleasant Hill residents – of all ages – who visit the library daily or weekly is testimony to its value. Whether the services used are traditional or new programs, people come to the library and cherish the library as an important element contributing to the quality of their lives.

Jessica Braverman: Our library is reflective of our town: accessible, diverse, friendly, helpful, fun, innovative, cutting edge, informative, inviting and inclusive.

The library enhances the quality of life for our citizens. I also see the “green” quality of our Pleasant Hill library as a place where resources are “reused”, not just purchased and then discarded; a place where seniors, teens, business people and residents can come to borrow a book, music, a periodical or whatever they seek.

Tim Flaherty: The proximity of the PH library to my house was a big factor when I purchased my house in 1996. The library is more than a repository of books.

It is a community center, an educational center, an information and media center.

The library provides programs and activities for our youngest citizens to our most senior.

David Durant: I have often said that part of what kept me out of trouble as a youth was the time I spent at the Public Library.

So, the contribution that the library makes to the quality of life in Pleasant Hill is immeasurable. That’s why I fought for library funding early in the last decade, why the City of Pleasant Hill today contributes funds to keep the library open for longer operating hours and provision of services targeted to our community.

Matt Rinn: The PH library is an integral part of our community providing resources for the youth and continuing education for our adult community.

4. As a City Council member, will you actively advocate for construction of a new library building?

Jeremy Cloward: Yes. Michael Flake: No, the city is not currently in the position to support construction of a new building due to deficit spending and other priorities, such as infrastructure improvements defined in a planned capital improvements program (CIP).

Jim Bonato: Not at this time. My future answer would depend on the vision for a new library and its services, the operating costs of a Pleasant Hill Library, the site, the size, and the construction costs.

Jessica Braverman: Yes. Tim Flaherty: Yes. David Durant: Yes. I am committed to Pleasant Hill having the best library and best library service that it can have, albeit always within reason and our means as a city government and as a citizenry, and, over time, that means having a new library building.

Matt Rinn: Yes. No responses were received from candidate Ken Carlson.

Page 19

CP Hall of Fame

Chills, thrills and a few tears were shed at College Park’s 6th Annual Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony on Saturday, August 25 sponsored by the Falcon Foundation.

Honored athletes included (L to R): swimming legend Cal Percy; cross country star and Stanford graduate Lindsay Allen; CP’s long-time, highly successful football coach Bill Kepler; three-sport letterman Bobby Glover; and contributor Dawn Block. Also honored was the 2003 and 2004 back-to-back Girls’ Cross Country CIF State Champions. Teams honored were the 2003-04 State Champions in Cross Country. This fund-raising event benefits Falcon Athletics and funding for those school disciplines adversely affected by the Mt. Diablo School District budget cuts.

If you know of an athlete, coach, individual or team that deserves to be in the Hall of Fame, please send an email to Jerry Pollard, CPHS Hall of Fame Committee at jerrypollard@yahoo.com.”

Cross Country athletes on hand, LtoR: Eugenie Foote, Lindsay Allen, Nicole Reed, Nicole Pennes, Kelsey Dallara, Lizzy Eskildsen, Stephanie Hadsell, Alyson Finely and Coach Chuck Woolridge. Photos by Ann Luke.

www.ourcommunityfocus.com Page 20

HOME TEAM Sports Faces in the News Dave Giberti Dave Giberti, former head baseball coach at Alhambra HS, has been named the new pitching coach at Diablo Valley College. Giberti joins the coaching staff for new first-year head coach Dennis Luquet.

Giberti was a draft pick of the Texas Rangers in 1990 and proceeded to the Triple-A level before retiring. Most recently, he had been the hitting coach at California HS in San Ramon. Luquet comes from Deer Valley HS in Antioch, were he ran a very successful Division I prep program.

Richard Calhoun The former great Alhambra running back announced he has enrolled at California Lutheran College (CLC) in Thousand Oaks. Calhoun finished his studies and played the past two seasons at Diablo Valley College. He looks to contribute to the Kingsmen program, which was 8-2 in 2011. CLC is ranked number twelve in the NCAA Division III poll entering the season. Calhoun holds several Alhambra football records and was a two-time allleague selection.

Will Wurth After two fine seasons on the diamond for Texas A&M University-Kingsville, the Martinez native, who earned all-league honors as a second baseman, will return to the Lone Star state. Wurth’s career for the Javelins will continue this fall as he returns on a golf scholarship. He will have one year of collegiate eligibility remaining on the links. Wurth is a gradu-

Season Ticket

By Chuck Nan ate of Alhambra HS. De Silva’s touchdown romps were for 25, and earn a spot in the medal round. In the Brandon Rutley 49, 7, 2, 65 and 10 yards respectively. The bronze-medal match, Lobsinger pinned Another former great Bulldog runFalcons’ defense was stingy, not allowing Gulmaral Yerkebayeva of Kazakhstan ning back, Brandon Rutley, has signed a DV to complete a pass attempt. in the second round to win the match. contract with the Hamilton Tiger Cats Lobsinger returns to the mat for her junior Taylor Poyadue (province of Ontario) of the Canadian year with the Alhambra team in December. Taylor Poyadue, an Alhambra senior Football League. Rutley had been in NFL There, she looks to continue her success and All-DFAL selection, plays both ways training camps this summer with the Oakall the way to a California Interscholastic for the Bulldogs. In the first three games land Raiders and Arizona Cardinals.

Federation state title. Last year, she won a of the season, he has already scored Rutley, a 5-11, 192-pound back, was North Coast Section crown and placed a touchdowns running, receiving and on a raised in Martinez and was a gridiron remarkable third at state. fumble return. Poyadue also has a gamestar at Alhambra. He then had a distinclinching interception and 68-yard kickMatt De Silva guished career at San Jose State. For the off return to his credit. Against Cardinal College Park running back Matt De Spartans, Rutley ran for 1,779 yards and Silva rushed for six touchdowns to lead the Newman, he tallied 206 yards rushing, 21 touchdowns while catching 70 passes host Falcons to their first win of the season breaking the “double 100” barrier for the for 668 yards and one touchdown over as they even their record at 1-1 with a 49-7 first time in 2012. four seasons. He was named second-team win over Dougherty Valley. De Silva had All-WAC in 2011. The power back also 22 carries for 302 yards (13.7 avg.). CP became the first player in SJSU history to gained a total of 438 yards on the ground. record 100 rushing yards and 100 receiving yards in a single game last season.

Anastasia Lobsinger Alhambra High Men’s Water Polo team had a successful run finishing 2nd at the Jim Healy Tournament at American Canyon High School on September 28th.

Anastasia Lobsinger returned to Alhambra HS in September with quite a story to share with her classmates. The junior wrestler earned international acclaim as she traveled around the world and returned with a bronze medal in women’s freestyle competition. Lobsinger traveled nearly half-way around the world to compete at the FILA Cadet World Wrestling Championships in Baku, Azerbaijan from August 22-24. After dropping her first match, losing to eventual silver-medal winner Moa Lena Nygren of Sweden, Lobsinger had another opportunity to shine. She was able to better Canada’s Kelsey Raab Pleasant Hill men’s softball “D 2.2” league champions, the Roadrunners, topped off an unde-

Bulldog Water Polo

Roadrunners Win

Local Sports Information

Local High School Homecoming Schedule Alhambra High School: 10/19 Parade from Alhambra through Main Street, Martinez - 3pm. Football game: Alhambra vs Campolindo - Alhambra HS at 7pm.

October 2012

College Park High School: 10/5 Daytime rallies followed by a tailgate party from 5-7pm. Football game: College Park vs Mt. Diablo, DVC at 7pm.

Pleasant Hill Hawks Travel Baseball Tryouts Tryouts Oct. 21st and Oct. 28th for the 9U-14U age groups. For information, email phhawksbaseball@gmail.com or visit www.phba.org. Times will be posted on website. Mandatory to make a minimum of one tryout. The 12U team will play in the Cooperstown, NY tournament.

This is a 680 Travel baseball league.

Martinez Youth Baseball and Softball Open to all Martinez and Pleasant Hill Residents. Registration Oct. 17 & Nov. 12 at Alhambra High 7-9pm. Boys and girls age 4-16. Visit www.bestgameinmtz.org for more information.

College Park Alumni Soccer Game Save the Date! CPHS Women’s Alumni soccer game is scheduled for 2pm on December 22, 2012 at CP. Please go to our Facebook page for more details - College Park HS Women’s Soccer.

feated season by taking home the playoff t-shirts and trophy. There was solid play by most, but the night’s standout was Ken “Redshoes” Lombardi hitting for the cycle and making diving catches in the field. With five players on the disabled list, the Roadrunners limped their way to the end of the season.

www.ourcommunityfocus.com October 2012

Page 21

Rec and Park

Please check all Rec and Park events listed in the Calendar on page 30.

www.pleasanthillrec.com (925) 682-0896

GRAND OPENING of the Pleasant Hill Teen Center!

Please join us for the

OPEN HOUSE and RIBBON CUTTING Saturday, October 20, 2012 11 am–3 pm, 147 Gregory Lane Tours, BBQ, and entertainment

Artesa Dental Supports

Alhambra High School Athletic Boosters!

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For the 2012 school year, Artesa Dental will donate $1 to the Alhambra Athletic Boosters for every like on the Artesa Dental facebook Dr. Amanda Backstrom, DMD and staff.

page for the first 1000 “Likes”

www.ourcommunityfocus.com Page 22

October 2012

THE GARDEN

Revel in the Change of Seasons Honey soft, sweet and yielding, autumn slips into our fair burg almost unnoticed at times.

Perhaps another window closed at night or a nagging obligation to get that furnace lit or cleaned. Small armies of squirrels race in circles from roof to tree, knocking nuts off trees and fulfilling their true métier - getting nourishment - while maintaining forests of oaks. As outdoor duties accumulate, we gain excitement in the change of routine and our expectations quicken. Cats get more exercise than usual.

Indeed, we have season changes around here; you just have to pay attention.

In the vegetable garden it is time to get cracking, cleaning up the old summer crops and getting in the winter foods. Lettuce, arugula, spinach, carrots and radish are sown by seed into heavily composted and mulched rows. Bok choy, tat soi, mustard greens, chards and kales need to be released from seed packets and buried in rich, velvety soil. Broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts are better off put in from nursery bought plants now to take advantage of a full crop come January. Sweet peas and most bulbs also do best planted now, as do poppies, lupines, snap dragons and pansies. The effort will pay off with amazing and glorious spring blooms. Patience is the word of the day for the winter gardener. Hope is in there too.

By Lesley Stiles Peppers turn scarlet on the vines, Most farmers’ markets around here ting better and better around here. fully mature, and beckon to be pulled and are year round, so don’t stop going be Hiking in our area is extra special grilled with lusciously unctuous olive oil cause you think it is over, chances are it this time of year, traversing up and down and cracked salt. Butternut squash and ain’t, and the farmers are working diligentbrown and golden trails, precious even in pumpkins turn orange next to flirty tomadecay, accidentally tripping upon amazing ly to continue bringing the best produce toes, still playing off each other like courtspider webs, and noticing the mad dash by around practically to your door step. Even ing couples waiting to dine together. This for those who don’t like to cook, this time every creature that dwells in the midsts of is an amazing crossover time in the garthe oaks and pines in our hills to ready the of year takes on a magical quality from den as well as the farmers’ markets. Stone woods for winter. Hot summer hiking can market to stove and palatable creations fruits lavish us with end of season sugary abound. Lavish in the change, eat well and be laborious and make you feel like you crispness and slowly get us used to the are swimming uphill in thick water, but as love life in this valley. idea of no more white nectarines as apples Lesley Stiles is a graduate of the Calithe season moves on towards the end of start coming on sweet and strong. Lofornia Culinary Academy, sustainable the year, the air becomes thin and crisp, cal grapes are plentiful at the markets and caterer and school garden educator. Conencouraging sprightly hops and jumps sit next to dwindling strawberry baskets. tact Lesley at lesleystiles@comcast.net, while communing with nature and the Changing seasons translate into changawesome views of the straights and valley. www.lesleystiles.blogspot.com and visit ing menus as meals start to move indoors her new website: www.lesleystilesfoods.

I tell myself everyday how fortunate I am and go from cold or room temperature com. to live here and believe it every time. salads and antipasti to hot and hearty rich stews and warming soups. Last dash canners and preservers kick into high gear, mimicking the squirrels’ efforts to get the Ingredients: 1/2 head of Gai lan, sliced (Chinese broccoli) 1 red onion, chopped, or ½ bunch baby onwinter stocks in before summer has com½ bunch rainbow Swiss chard, sliced ions, sliced up the greens pletely disappeared.

1 cup tomato sauce 4 cloves garlic, chopped College Park High School’s organic 1 cup vegetable stock 2 carrots, split and chopped garden has been officially certified by the 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 zucchini, sliced California Department of Agriculture, and 1 large Yukon gold potato, cubed ½ cup chopped fresh mixed herbs such as we are now legally able to not only supply parsley, basil, oregano, thyme, mint ½ butternut squash, cubed Salt and pepper 1 large eggplant, peeled and cubed the cafeteria with our fabulous mounds of 4 cups cooked couscous 1 red pepper, chopped produce, but if time and money permits, Directions: we could actually have our students sell In a large, heavy bottomed pot, heat olive oil and sauté onions and garlic until slightly their own grown produce at the farmers’ browned. Add the eggplant, potato, butternut squash and carrots. Sauté for 10 minutes unmarket. We also got certified to sell the til caramelized. Add tomato sauce and stock. Let simmer 10 more minutes and add the pepmany baby plants we start in our green per, zucchini, gai lan and chard. Let simmer for 5 minutes until greens are bright colored.

Add herbs and season w/ salt and pepper. Serve over couscous. Serves 8. house if we have extras. It just keeps get-

Crescent Dr. at Downtown Plaza

Saturdays, SSa aatturddaays, 9 aam-1 m--11 ppm m • RRain aiinn oorr SShine hine October 6: We will be closed for the Pleasant Hill Art and Wine Festival.

October 13: Guess the weight of the Giant Pumpkin to win great prizes!

October 20: We're giving away free small pumpkins to the kids.

(While supplies last.)

October 27: Your farmers and producers are glamming it up for Halloween. Come see all their booths decorated for the season and vote for your favorite. Voting will enter you to win a special produce prize. And wear your Halloween costume just for fun!

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www.ourcommunityfocus.com October 2012

Page 23

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

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www.ourcommunityfocus.com Page 24

October 2012

In the Mix - Does Music Sway You? Well, here we are again folks, entering that wonderful time I like to call the “Scream Season.” No, I am not talking about Halloween, although comparisons can be made. I am referring to election time. Now, I am not going to start a rant regarding the plethora of commercials running every two minutes or give my political views, but I am fascinated by the music the politicians select for their campaigns.

As I was watching the Democratic convention, President Obama walked out to U2’s “City of Blinding lights,” and I suddenly realized how music plays such an important part of campaigns.

Could music influence your vote?

Absolutely! I mean, if you are a big U2 fan, I am sure you would lean towards the re-election of President Obama. And that is exactly the strategy of the Obama campaign. It works for both sides of the aisle. At the Republican convention, you could hear songs by Kid Rock, 3 Doors Down, The Doobie Brothers, The Black Eyed Peas and The Temptations.

By Paul Cotruvo, Cover2Cover The theory is if you like these acts, then their song “Panic Switch” at campaign Romney is your man. Throw in the fact events. Tom Petty sent a cease-andthat Paul Ryan has Rage Against the desist letter to Michele Bachmann in Machine and Led Zeppelin on his iPod 2011 after she played “American Girl” and that could seal the deal. I think both at a rally announcing her campaign for parties attempt to sway your vote by president. In 2008, the band Heart asked playing cool and hip music. I am sure the Sarah Palin campaign to stop playing they have this down to a science because its song “Barracuda,” and Jackson Bowne certain genres may be more appealing settled out of court with John McCain for certain demographics. Indie rock, that same year for his use of “Running hip hop and R&B is aimed at younger on Empty.” voters perceived as Democrats, while Over the years, many artists such classic rock and country may attract as Talking Heads, Tom Petty, Boston older, more traditional voters, perceived and John Mellencamp have denounced as supporting the GOP. the use of their songs. You cannot deny But it has not always worked so well the power of music and its influence. for many past campaigners. I remember So I was thinking, what would make a back in 1984, Ronald Reagan used “Born great campaign song for this upcoming in the USA” and even mentioned Springelection? What song says it all and might steen in a speech. The irony was that just get your vote? For you candidates, Bruce is a liberal and the words to the just make sure you get permission! song are anti-war and an anthem to how Here’s my list: the country is crumbling. Not a great “Born Free” by Kid Rock choice (although Mr. Reagan won by a “Take a Chance On Me” by Abba landslide).

“Taking Care of Business” by Bachman And not all artists want their songs used for just any candidate. Recently, the Los Angeles alternative group, The Silversun Pickups, sent Mr. Romney a cease-and-desist order to stop using

NEW

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PAUL’S PICKS FOR OCTOBER October 4 - The Chris Cobb Band, Armando’s, 707 Marina Vista, Martinez, 8pm October 6 - Cover2Cover, PH Art, Jazz & Wine Festival, downtown on Crescent Drive, 6:30pm October 6 – Leo Vigil Band, Armando’s, 707 Marina Vista, Martinez, 8pm October 7 - Delta Wires, PH Art, Jazz & Wine Festival, downtown on Crescent Drive, 3pm October 12 - Tender Mercies, Armando’s, 707 Marina Vista, Martinez, 8pm October 13 - Loose Blues, Dallimontis, 1932 Oak Park Blvd., Pleasant Hill, 9:30pm October 20 - Sin Silver, Back Forty, 100 Coggins Drive Pleasant Hill, 6pm October 26 - Frankie G & the Conviction, Armando’s, 707 Marina Vista, Martinez, 8pm

Dallimonti’s

Turner Overdrive “I Won’t Back Down” by Tom Petty “America” by Neil Diamond “Won’t Get Fooled Again” by The Who “Better Way” by Ben Harper “Come Together” by The Beatles “The Rising” by Bruce Springsteen “Living in America” by James Brown OK, now send me your list at www. ourcommunityfocus.com Quote of the month: “You know nothing for sure...except the fact that you know nothing for sure.’’

John F. Kennedy One more thing... for all you Counting Crows fans, on Friday October 12, you will not want to miss the band “Tender Mercies,” playing at Armando’s in Martinez. This group features Dan Vickrey and Jim Bogios from the Counting Crows. In between touring, this side project features a stripped down sound in the Americana vein. If you like songs such as “Four White Stallions,” you will not be disappointed. Downbeat at 8pm.

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www.ourcommunityfocus.com October 2012

Page 25

Skunk Adventure It is easy to write about coexisting with wildlife.

I have been giving advice for many years and have a long list of great solutions to problems: raccoons or skunks digging in lawns or living under houses, woodpeckers making holes in eaves, and

FLAVORS

By Susan Heckly, Lindsay Wildlife Museum gophers eating prized petunias. When eat the goodies inside, where they are it happens to me personally, howevprotected. It took a couple of days for er, I find it might not be as easy and it to dawn on me that it was probably a straightforward as I thought. skunk that did this, but how could that In this instance, I went out to the be? I have a completely fenced-in yard compost bin and found half of the and always assumed (a bad word) the compost outside of the bin. It looked fence kept skunks out. like something small had dragged it out To find out, I borrowed a special through the bottom. I’ve had rat probmotion-detector camera that can take lems for years, but this was definitely pictures at night. I set it up facing the different. Rats make small tunnels and compost bin and, lo and behold, the next morning I had pictures of a beautiful small skunk. It visited the compost bin several times during the night and Banana was last seen Lime at 4:30am, just about the Black Cherry Mango Orange Blue Bubble Gum alarm time my clock went off.

Blue Raspberry Passion Fruit Pina Colada at least a dozen places Blueberry After sealing Cherry Pink Cotton Candy ofChocolate possible entry Root Beer along the fence line, Coconut Rock and Roll we thought we had fixed the problem Fruit Punch Strawberry Grape Tiger’s Blood and several Green went Apple Tutti Frutti nights without the

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compost being disrupted. Just as we started to relax, the compost was attacked again.

Although the fence is as secure as it’s going to get, I won’t be surprised if the skunk returns again. What I will do is put wire around the compost bin so that if the skunk returns it won’t be able to get anything out. And when I get a dog, I’ll make sure it’s on a leash if it needs to go outside at night. I can make my property as secure as possible, and I can modify my behavior to live in harmony with the wild residents of my neighborhood. It’s a lot easier than fighting it.

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HIGH SCHOOL HAPPENINGS

George Orwell’s 1984

The College Park High School Drama Department is preparing for a theatrical adaptation of George Orwell’s dystopian novel 1984. The play, directed by DVC theatre student Jeff Crawford, marks the first full collaboration between the College Park and DVC drama departments. When drama teacher Joan Lopate contacted the DVC Drama Society for assistance with the production, she was connected with the director and costumer. “Both were eager for an opportunity to get involved and even brought in a few of their colleagues to help out. These young people demonstrate skills, creativity and professionalism and have much to teach CP’s cast and crew, who will work along side them. Our school does not have a stagecraft class, so students’ technical theatre education tends to be “on the job” training,” said Lopate.

The story takes place in 1984 and presents an imaginary future where a group known as the Party rules a totalitarian state; its leader and dictator is Big Brother.

The Party controls every aspect of life, even people’s thoughts. The main character is a thirtynine year old man who secretly hates the Party and decides to rebel by starting a diary in which he discloses his rebellious thoughts.

“Although we haven’t presented anything like this play in the past, I think it’s important to offer the College Park community shows that vary in style and subject. The cast will be on the small side, about nine, with some actors playing multiple parts,” continued Lopate.

The show will run for five performances: 11/2, 11/3, 11/8 (matinee), 11/9 & 11/10 in the multi-use room.

The PTSA, Athletic Boosters, and Instrumental Music Boosters are pleased to launch a new, joint fundraising effort known as “College Park HS Rewards.” College Park HS Rewards lets you earn money for College Park while doing your online shopping.

Plus, you get a percentage of your purchase back too. “This is a unique program because it doesn’t just raise money for the school, it also means cash back for anyone making an online purchase,” said Athletic Booster President, Chris Croft.

Many well-known retailers are linked to College Park HS Rewards including Macy’s, Target, Barnes & Noble, Home Depot and Kohl’s. Anytime you make a purchase through the website, you are donating and supporting the high school.

College Park HS Rewards gives you the flexibility to not only support CPHS, but also to direct or donate your reward earnings or cash donations to a specific program. Instrumental Music Booster

President Marcia Eaton remarked, “We liked the idea that academics, music, sports, and alumni could join forces. It allows us to prioritize and support the most important needs of College Park. And it’s much more fun to work together.” When you sign up at College Park HS Rewards, go to the “donate” tab to select a specific program or group who has registered their program.

It just takes a few seconds to sign up for your own account. To register, visit www.collegeparkhsrewards.com and use your email address. Unlike other fundraising endeavors, you do not need to provide your credit card information in order to take advantage of the program.

“Our priority is to help every student at College Park in whatever way necessary. We know that funds are a big part of helping, but community is important too. So a fundraiser that supports the community feeling on campus will be successful in many ways,” said PTSA President Kathleen Strange. Register and help support the Falcon community!

Innovative Fundraising

October 2012

CP Photo Exhibit

The students in Jennifer Kennedy’s ROP Advanced Photography & Photo 2 class will be showing their photographs during the Martinez Historical Society Home Tour on October 13 from 10am-4pm. Student photographs will be on display at the Shell Clubhouse located at 1635 Pacheco Blvd. in Martinez. Photo Credit: Paige Roesling

Reflections Deadline

College Park PTSA’s annual Reflections art program is looking to showcase work created by talented College Park students! This year’s theme is “The Magic of a Moment.” Reflections is an arts recognition and achievement program for students sponsored by the National PTA. The program offers students the opportunity to create works of art outside of school projects for fun and experience. Selected winners go on to compete at the district/regional and state levels, with the best-of-the-best going on to national. This program is great to include on a college resume, and all participants will be honored at the end-of-

the-year awards banquet.

Students are encouraged to submit original works of art in the following areas: dance choreography; film production; literature; musical composition; photography and visual arts (drawing, painting, collage, metal-etching, fiber work, computer-generated work, etc.). The deadline to submit entries to the College Park main office is Friday, October 26. Only original works are accepted.

For more information on rules and entry forms, visit the College Park website: http://cphs.mdusd.org/reflections or contact Corrin Canale, PTSA Reflections Program Chair, at ccanale@comcast.net.

Musician Showcase Saturday, October 20 will be a night of music and merriment to raise funds in support of the College Park Instrumental Music Program. The event takes place at the Concord Hilton Hotel from 5pm-10pm.

Tickets are $60 and include the price of

dinner and an evening of music from the award-winning College Park Instrumental Music ensembles.

Purchase tickets and get online auction information at auctions.readysetauction.com/cpimbcollegeparkins/home.

www.ourcommunityfocus.com October 2012

Page 27

Former Principal Seeks Seat on MDUSD Board

By Jaki Jones this district, and I’d like the community to school site and fluff that you don’t need. In When Barbara Oaks retired as prinlook at our schools in a positive light.” four years I took my own school from becipal of College Park High School in June Oaks believes the current board is ing in a deficit to having positive income.” of 2011, her concern about the direction antagonistic and unable to work collabora Should the district be in a stronger fisand tone of the Mt. Diablo school district’s cal position in the future, she would like to governing board remained. She considered tively for the good of the school district. “A functioning board has to have a relationsee more money go to the schools. “My first running for a seat on the school board in ship with each other. They have to be willpriority is students and classrooms—maorder to effect change on a broader scale. ing to communicate and it does not seem terials, technology, special needs, tutoring, Given all the complexities of a board posilike over the past few years there has been English language learners, additional assisttion, Oaks’ main objectives if elected are much of a relationship among the memants as well as counseling and emotional to reestablish and build relationships and bers. When the school board is at each support for students in high school. Let’s stress fiscal responsibility. other, that trickles down to the teachers and Oaks’ résumé at College Park inet realities. As principal at College Park, she do what we can to raise student achieveschools. I realize, as a board member, there cludes working as a teacher of students understood how the school system worked ment; we are working with individuals and are only certain things that I can have an every student is going to come out different with special needs for thirteen years, being and turned around her budget shortfalls. impact on, but I think I can affect people and unique. I would also look at some way a high school vice principal for five years, “With all my prior experience running when I go and talk with them and maybe to bring back medical benefits for teachand finally, serving as high school prina high school, my feeling on the district that will turn the tide a little bit.” ers, even if it is at a higher capped figure. If cipal for six years. If elected, her intent is budget is that every line item needs to be Oaks’ intent, if elected, is to visit the the school site is functioning well, it should to strengthen communication, trust and looked at. I’d ask if this is really a necessary school sites and talk with administrators trickle on up”. respect among the teachers, administraexpense or is there some way it can be cut and teachers about their concerns and work -- be it instructional materials or profestion and the board. “When I became prin In the Mt. Diablo Unified School on a lateral basis with them instead of “top cipal in 2005, there was always a struggle District, Barbara Oaks is running with sional development or consultant fees -- I down.” “We’re all colleagues, we’re all in to retain good teachers. They left to other incumbent Sherry Whitmarsh, Ernie would take a closer look at the expendithis for the same purpose: to make schools districts and a major part of that was due DeTrinidad, Brian Lawrence and Debra tures. Sometimes you need a different outto health benefits. However there are many, better for kids,” she continued.

Mason. Incumbent Gary Eberhart is not look and perspective on things. I do have Oaks comprehends the district’s budgmany dedicated and excellent teachers in seeking~ re-election. experience about what is essential for a editor@yourmonthlypaper.com Lafayette Today October 2012 - Page 9

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To register, go to www.active.com or www.lafayettechamber.org, or call the Lafayette Chamber of Commerce at

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This event supports local education

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This event supports local education

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www.ourcommunityfocus.com Page 28

Breast Cancer Month

By Gigi Chen MD cancers, while everolimus It seems like yesterday we (Afinitor) treats hormone-rewere honoring Breast Cancer sponsive breast cancer. Both Awareness Month in 2011. pertuzumab and everolimus While the year has gone by are already FDA-approved, quickly, it has left a positive and we anticipate approval of mark in the advancement of TDM-1 in the near future. breast cancer treatment.

We are fortunate to We all know breast cancer live in a time and community that puts is an important health issue for women; great focus on breast cancer awareness. it is the most common cancer in women Locally, there are some important events and the second most common cause of in upcoming weeks. The Sunvalley Mall cancer death. In 2011, there were more in Concord will host the second “Survivthan 220,000 new diagnoses and more ing in Style Fashion Walk� in conjunction than 40,000 deaths due to breast canwith their “Pink Up the Mall� campaign cer in the United States. But the most on October 7. “The Many Faces of Breast important statistic is that there are more Cancer,� a program that focuses on the than 2.5 million breast cancer survivors issues of breast cancer survivorship, will in this country right now! That is due to see its fourth year of filling an auditorium improvements in screening, which lead with breast cancer survivors on October to earlier diagnoses, as well as advancements in treatments that increase the cure 13 at the Lesher Center in Walnut Creek.

On October 18, John Muir Health Center rate. We often hear the phrase we need to “find a cure for breast cancer,� when in will have “An Evening in Pink� that reality, we actually cure more than 90% of begins at the Women’s Health Center and continues through downtown Walnut women diagnosed with this disease.

Creek. These are just a few of the events Although there are some women occurring in our community throughout whose breast cancer cannot be cured, we the month. Whether you are a survivor, now live in a time when incurable breast cancer can be treated as a chronic disease, a loved one, a caregiver, or just one who cares, we hope to see many of you out like diabetes and heart disease. There there this month, supporting the cause! are many different treatment options for women with metastatic breast cancer, and Tiffany Svahn, MD is a Medical Oncologist and Hematologist with Diablo these treatments lead to longer survival Valley Oncology. Dr. Svahn specializes and improved quality of life. In the past in breast cancer. Diablo Valley Oncolyear, three new drugs have entered the arena for breast cancer treatment, making ogy’s comprehensive cancer center is it a record year in breast cancer advances. located at the California Cancer and Research Institute in Pleasant Hill. For Two of the drugs, pertuzumab (Perjeta) and TDM-1, target HER2-positive breast more information call 925-677-5041.

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Prenatal Exercise - Where Should My Focus Be?

By Tonya Marie Amos, Aspire Pilates fully to strengthen your overall align Pregnancy ment, which will minimize joint pain prompts women as your baby grows. Focus on your to want to take core in a neutral position, which is better care of integral for keeping back pain at bay themselves.  They and may also facilitate an easier delivcome to my studio ery. Strengthen your feet, as they bear glowing, nervous, the brunt of extra weight, fluid and and excited to alignment changes. Strengthen your use their forty weeks to evoke positive arms and upper body to lessen the change in their bodies.  Because the body experiences profound shifts when struggle of carrying your new baby, car seat and diaper bag. preparing for birth, special care must Make sure to check in with your be taken while exercising. doctor about exercise warning signs, be Prenatal hormonal changes cause gentle to your body, and always listen tissues in the body to loosen up, body to your little voice, stopping if somealignment to shift dramatically, feet thing doesn’t feel right.  Pregnancy is and breasts to swell, fatigue to set in, and even a need to change sleeping po- capable of creating huge and lasting changes in the body.  Exercise well to sitions.  So what should be the focus make those changes for the better. and what precautions should be taken For more information, contact while exercising pregnant? please call (925) 680-4400 or go to As your pregnancy progresses, www.AspirePilatesCenter.com. aerobic exercise should be approached with care, bouncing becomes problematic, and exercising on your back is no longer safe. Traditional sit-ups or crunches could trigger Diastasis Recti, Tropical Pilates Retreat a splitting of the soft tissue at the cenFebruary 9th - 16th, 2013 ter of your “six pack.�  Caution should 7 Nights Relaxation for Body & Mind Pilates, Cooking & Spanish Classes be paid to not overworking the adducThis is your chance to escape! tors (inner thighs), as this could cause www.MexicoPilatesRetreat.com a separation of the Pubic Symphysis of the pubic bone.   Acknowledge when you are fatigued and that breast tenderness, as well as hypermobile joints, may affect your program. Work slowly and care-

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By Myra Nissen, CCH, Certified Homeopath someone who experiences Do you suffer from alleran itchy nose, throat, and gies, take medication sevsoft pallet. People needing eral times a day and have low Wytheia will often make energy or frequent headaches? clicking noises in an attempt Antihistamines, decongestants, to relieve the tickling sensaor steroids may offer relief, but tion on their soft pallet with they often include uncomtheir tongue. fortable side effects such as Other natural care tips indizziness and drowsiness. They clude: also don’t address the underlying cause of • Raw, local honey: The allergens trapped allergies. How would it feel to live allergy in honey are delivered in small, managefree and not have to take any drugs? able doses, similar to allergy immunology Homeopathy can provide a natural injections. Note: Infants under one year system of relief from allergy symptoms should not be fed honey. without side effects. Working with a • Bathing: Clean all traces of pollen before professional homeopath to strengthen retiring for the day by washing your face the immune response can correct one’s or taking a shower. susceptibility to allergies. A homeopath • Sinus rinse: Rinsing trapped allergens offers an individualized approach that considers each person’s unique symptoms from the nasal passages helps prevent a stuffy nose. in order to determine the correct remedy.

• Careful house cleaning: Frequent cleanCommon remedies for allergies include: ing and dusting can remove allergens.

• Eurpharsia (eyebright) is for allergy Consider a HEPA clean air filter for your symptoms that come with itchy, burning, home. watery eyes. Allergy sufferers needing Eurphrasia will often try to wink away the Homeopathy is a 200 year-old healing modality that has been used by milsensation of a hair or sand in their eyes. lions of people worldwide. Find out how • When a person experiences teary eyes homeopathic allergy care can help you. and a drippy, burning nose, similar to Contact Myra Nissen today at 826-3858 chopping an onion, a remedy called and www.MyraNissen.com. Myra is ofAllium cepa can alleviate symptoms. It’s fering new clients their first homeopathic interesting to note that Allium cepa is remedy at no charge with the mention of made from a type of onion. this article.

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events Now - Oct. 25 - Martinez Farmers’ Market Thursdays, 10am-2pm. Court St., between Main & Escobar St. Year Round - Sun., 10am2pm. Main St. between Castro & Ferry St. Pleasant Hill Farmers’ Market Saturdays - November 17. 9am to 1pm. Downtown Pleasant Hill. Visit: www.pcfma.com or more information.

10/2 – Pleasant Hill Garden Study Club 7pm. Michael Glassman presents “Problem Solving Landscaping.” Camellia Room - Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Dr. Walnut Creek. Public welcome. For more info call 944-4898 or www.phgsc.com.

10/7 – Native Plant Sale Extravaganza 10am – 4pm. Shop at eight different locations for those hard-to-find natives at the right time of year to plant them. (Natives will be sold in Berkeley, Concord, Moraga, Oakland, Orinda, Richmond, San Lorenzo, and San Pablo.) While attendance is free, registration is required. Visit www.bringingbackthenatives.net. Bringing Back the Natives Garden Tour is sponsoring a series of Fall Select Tours.

Eight exclusive, guided tours of inspirational native plant gardens will be offered throughout September and October. $30 per person/ tour. Tours are limited to groups of thirty and will fill fast. Register now to reserve your space. (No refunds or exchanges.) To register and select a tour, visit: www.bringingbackthenatives.net.

10/12 Share the Magic - 7-9pm. Illusions, card experts, close-up performers and clowns.

A new show every year! Performances by The Society of American Magicians. Pre-registration is required. Only $8 per person. Winslow Center, 2590 Pleasant Hill Rd. 10/13 Martinez Home Tour - 10am - 4pm.

The Martinez Historical Society has completed the selection of 8 private homes to be on the Tour – homes representing the architecture of both the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Tour will begin at the historic Shell Clubhouse with its intact Craftsman interior, will include 3 museums, and will end at John Muir’s Victorian mansion. A variety of exhibits, displays and live music have been added to the event. The Home Tour provides provides funds for the restoration of the old Train Station in Martinez – an historic building dating back to 1877.

October 2012

Calendar 10/17 - The Society of American Magicians Assembly #112 meets the 3rd Wednesday of each month. We perform great magic and have loads of fun! Open to all! Round Table Pizza, 7pm, 2960 Treat Blvd., Concord. Join us this month and learn magic! Contact Fred at (925) 451-1292.

10/20 Rotary Poker Tournament 6pm. Shell Clubhouse, 1635 Pacheco Blvd. Martinez. $50 buy in. Extra $200 chips if bought prior to October 6. Dinner included. All proceeds go back to community projects. Call Marianne Clark 925-639-7647 for more information or to purchase tickets.

11/3 – Valhalladay Holiday Craft Faire and Unique Boutique - 9am - 3pm. Find a huge display of handcrafted beautiful designs from local artisans along with home baked goods from our kids, parents, family & friends.

Valhalla Elementary in Thor Hall, 530 Kiki Dr., Pleasant Hill.

At the library Pleasant Hill: Tuesdays - Doorstep Farmers Pick Up 5-7pm. Sign up with Doorstep Farmers, a local CSA, at www.doorstepfarmers.com. All subscribers will receive a 5% discount for choosing Pleasant Hill Library as their pick-up location.

Wednesdays - English Conversation Practice for Adults 1:30-2:30pm.

Wednesdays - Mother Goose Storytime 11:15-11:45pm. Ages 0-5.

Thursdays - Preschool Storytime 11:1511:45am. Ages 3-5.

Fridays - Storytime 11:15-11:45pm & 1:151:45pm. Ages 0-3.

Fridays - Contra Costa Teen Chess Club 3-5pm. Instruction, friendly matches, and tournaments. All levels are welcome. Participants are encouraged to bring own chess board and pieces.

Saturdays - Story Time 11:15-11:45am. Babies, Preschoolers, Kids.

10/9 – Hobbit Party! 6:30-8pm. Celebrate the book the whole city is reading this October: Tolkien’s The Hobbit. Come in costume for crafts, games, and more from the land of Middle Earth!

10/5 – Afternoon Book Discussion 1-2:30pm.

This month the club will discuss The Irregulars:

Roald Dahl and the British Spy Ring in Wartime Washington by Jennet Conant.

writer who is approached by a mysterious figure to write a book.

10/10 - Teen Advisory Group (TAG) 3:305pm. Meet other teens and the young adult librarian to share and plan what you want to see happen at the library. Every 2nd Wednesday of the month. Room A. Ages 11-18.

10/13 – Author Talk 1:30-3:30pm. Hear Bay Area author Marty Brounstein. A true story of interfaith compassion, courage, and rescue, involving a Christian couple in the Netherlands who saved the lives of at least two dozen Jews during World War II and the Holocaust. Free for all ages. Books available for purchase.

10/16 - PH Book Discussion 6:30pm-7:45pm.

This month we are reading Tolkien’s The Hobbit.

For Children’s Programs questions contact Patrick Remer, 925-927-3235 Martinez: Mondays – Crochet & Knitting Workshop 5:15-6:15pm. A 6-week workshop sponsored by the American Needlework Association. Materials free for those 18 or younger. Adults may attend but must provide their own supplies.

Online registration required at: http://ccclib. org/locations/martinez.html.

Tuesdays – Mother Goose Story and Craft Time 10:30-11:30am. Ages 0-3.

10/9 – Book Club Discussion 6:45-7:45pm.

Discuss Spanish novelist Carlos Ruiz Zafón and The Angel’s Game, a prequel to The Shadow of the Wind. It follows David Martin, a young

10/20 - Friends of Martinez Library Bag Book Sale 11am-4pm. Book sale for all ages.

10/29 - Lights Out Halloween! 6:30-7:30pm.

Come in costume and bring a lightstick for Halloween fun! Listen to scary stories, and prepare one to tell around our bubbling cauldron of witches’ brew. Games, crafts and a spooky good time for the whole family.

10/30 - Halloween Origami 3:30-4:30. Fold up some tricks and some treats with origami artist Charles Esseltine. Ages 6-14.

For Children’s Programs questions contact Lea Stone, Youth Services Librarian, 925-6469900.For Adult Programs questions contact Catherine Oliver Library Assistant, Adult Services (925) 646-9921

HALLOWEEN Events 10/20 – Zombie Brew Crawl!

2:30-5:30pm. Sample 20+ local craft beers inside local businesses. Tickets are $25 in advance, $35 at the door. For tickets and more information visit www.MainStreetMartinez.org.

10/25 - Marty O’s Halloween Hunt 3:30 – 5pm. We are having an old fashioned Halloween affair. There will be crafts, candy, and face painting to share. To register call the Recreation office at 372-3510. There will also be a candy hunt!

Everything is FREE. Decorate a candy bag and have your face painted. The candy hunt will be at 4:00 p.m. sharp. Space is limited to the first 100 children. Ages: 3- 12 years old. Free, Holiday Highlands, Figtree and Eastwoodbury Lane.

car to win a great prize. Food for purchase. $5 to enver your decorated vehicle. Sponsored by Generations Church. Pleasant Hill Park Parking Lot, 147 Gregory Lane.

10/26, 27, 29, 30, 31 – Downtown Martinez Ghost Walk 8pm - Take the 1-1/2 hour guided walking tour through Historic Downtown Martinez to discover the hidden past, little known facts and tales of days-gone-by.Tours conducted by Central Valley Paranormal.www.cvparanormal.com.

Tour starts at Main Street Martinez, 649 Main St. Suite 106. For more information call (925) 228-3577. Space is limited.

Purchase $25 tickets online beginning www.mainstreetmartinez.org

10/26 – Hello Halloween 12:30-3:30pm.

Witches and spiders, pumpkins and bats…

It is that time of year! Join the Martinez recreation staff for crafts, activities and haunting treats. K-5th grades. $10 per child. Nancy Boyd Recreation Room.

10/28 – Halloween Spooktacular Trunk or Treat 10am-2pm. A safe place for families to celebrate Halloween. Visit creatively themed and decorated car trunks that will line downtown Martinez.

Each trunk is sponsored by local businesses.

10/26 – Trunk or Treat- Pleasant Hill. 5:30 – 7:30pm. Come in costume and collect candy from community members who have decorated their vehicles for the spooktacular event. Crafts, activities and a goodie bag for each child. Decorate your

10/31 – Halloween Tour 6:30-7:40pm. Join us as we explore the Martinez cemetery on All Hallows Eve. Don’t forget your flashlight and sturdy walking shoes. Space is limited and pre-registration is required 372-3510. No children.

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October 2012

Page 31

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October 2012

Page 32

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 6TH; 10AM - 6PM SUNDAY, OCTOBER 7 TH; 10AM - 5PM DOWNTOWN PLEASANT HILL ON CRESCENT DRIVE The Art, Jazz & Wine Fest returns to downtown Pleasant Hill with continuous live music, arts & crafts, food, premium wines, microbrews, and expanded childrens’ entertainment, including the return of Capt’n Jack Spareribs.

BAND SCHEDULE SATURDAY

SUNDAY

11:00 - 12:15 ... Charged Particles (Jazz) 12:45 - 2:00 .. David Correa & Cascada

11:30 - 12:30 .. Four & More (Jazz)

2:30 - 3:45 .... Frankie G & the Conviction

3:00 - 5:00... Delta Wires (Blues)

(Latin Guitar)

(Powerhouse Blues)

1:00 - 2:30 .... En Vivo (Latin)

4:15 - 5:45 ..... Lost Dog Found (Swing & Rockabilly) 6:30 - 8:45 .... Cover2Cover (Rock & Roll)

Plus! Saturday Evening Concert on the Plaza with Cover2Cover starting at 6:30pm KIDS’ ENTERTAINMENT AND ACTIVITIES SCHEDULE

SATURDAY ENTERTAINMENT 11 am ......... Pleasant Hill’s Got Talent ................... Starring YOU! 12 noon ...... Andrea’s Musical ................... Adventures 1 pm ........... Jeremy the Juggler 2 pm ........... Germar the Magician 3 pm ........... Studio A Dancers 4 pm ........... Capt’n Jack Spareribs

SUNDAY ACTIVITIES 11 am - 4 pm ..Airbrush Tattoos ........................and Face Painting 11am - 4 pm ....Arts and Crafts ........................Tables 11am - 3:30 ..... Magic Trick Table

ENTERTAINMENT 11 am .............Studio A Dancers 11:45 am ........College Park HS Choir 12 noon ..........Andrea’s Musical .......................Adventures 12:30 pm ........Pleasant Hill’s Got Talent .......................Starring YOU! 1 pm ...............Germar the Magician 2 pm ...............Magic Kenn

3 pm ...............Encore Gym 4 pm ...............Capt’n Jack Spareribs ACTIVITIES 11 am - 4 pm ....Airbrush Tattoos ..........................and Face Painting 11 am - 4 pm ....Arts and Crafts ..........................Tables 11 am - 4 pm ....Balloon Twisting

Thank you to our event sponsors Event Graphics by

For More Information: www.PleasantHillArtJazzandWineFestival.com (925) 687-0700