•MARCH 2014
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March 2014
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Shaving For Cancer Creek Monkey Tap House in Martinez will host its 3rd annual St. Baldrick’s Foundation fundraiser to combat childhood cancer by raising funds for research. This head-shaving event began as a challenge among several businessmen and has grown from one event in the year 2000 to over 1,300 events, raising over $34 million for children’s cancer research! Visit with the Raiderettes and enjoy live music and entertainment throughout the day. Volunteers from Citrus Salon will be on hand to shave heads, including Mayor Rob Schroder’s!
You can join an existing team or form one of your own. Register as a “shavee” and then start raising money from friends and family. Sign up today: www.stbaldricks.org/events/CreekMonkey. Be a hero for kids with cancer and join this St. Baldrick’s event. Whether you decide to be a shavee and collect pledges, volunteer, or donate, we hope you’ll be a part of the excitement. Saturday, March 15, 11am - 5pm, adjacent to the Creek Monkey, 611 Escobar Street, Martinez.
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March 2014
JULIE SAYS
What’s in Your Junk Drawer?
My house has been in serious need of heavy spring cleaning and the purging of belongings for quite some time. During a recent stormy weekend, I decided to face the challenge. Feather duster in hand, I headed downstairs to brush off the bookcases and see if I could weed out some books in the process. On a low shelf behind one of our many dog beds, I came across a book I had not noticed before, The 2,548 Best Things Anybody Ever Said, selected and compiled by Robert Byrne. Who can resist a title like that? Down went the feather duster as I started to flip through the pages. And that was the end of my good housekeeping intentions. I realized getting near the books allowed far too much potential for distraction, so the next day I tackled the kitchen junk drawer instead. While I was growing up, my family always had a “junk drawer” in the kitchen. It held a couple of potentially useful items, such as flashlight batteries and maybe a screwdriver, but mostly it was a repository for odds and ends that could find no other home. I continue the tradition and suspect many of you have a junk drawer too. I removed the whole drawer, set it on the dining room table and took everything out. I found a mix of useful items, some actual junk, and a few things that really put the “odd” into “odds and ends.” I will let you decide what object falls into which category from the list that follows. There was a small plastic cup featuring leaping lemurs from the San Francisco Zoo which contained five guitar picks, three Chuck E. Cheese tokens, a piece of blue sidewalk chalk and three little tubes of super glue. A small box next to it held four of those weights you tie to helium balloons to keep them from floating away, a rubber ball, and
By Julie Ross three candles in the shape of numerals (2, 6 and 8). Scattered throughout the drawer were no fewer than eleven little packets of food for cut flowers. There was a long tray in the drawer (ironically called “organizers” I believe), which held a cello-packed single napkin from Soup Stock in Tokyo, the instructions for using a Flexiflame lighter, a red balloon, a bottle of Liquid Paper, three boxes of round toothpicks, a bag of 40 Stars & Stripes “Fun Pix,” and four packs of wooden skewers, including one with a “best by” date, which struck me as odd. Do bamboo skewers spoil? I did not know that. There was, of course, the ubiquitous plastic dinosaur. Even though no one has played with these in our house for at least a decade, I find them everywhere. This one was a brachiosaurus. There were also several fridge magnets: two featuring the Beatles, an Elvis, a frog, a bee, one spelling out the ABCs of a healthy life according to Kaiser Permanente, and another two that are really quite unattractive but offer valuable information. One of these provides the hours of operation for the Household Hazardous Waste Collection Facility (never know when you might need that). The other advises steps to take if you hear the safety sirens: shelter (go inside), shut (seal the building) and listen (turn on radio or TV). Good thing the safety sirens did not go off while that magnet was hidden at the bottom of the drawer or I might not have sur-
vived to find it! Independent & Locally Owned There were also matches, including some I will never, ever, use because they are from Rome, and the box is too tiny and elegant to even consider cracking the seal. There was one matchbook from Trader Vic’s in Atlanta -- when was I there? The drawer holds not only junk, but mystery… PUBLISHERS Rounding out the list of items I Becky Coburn, Jennifer Neys, sorted through were two turkey basters, Elena Hutslar a rolling pin, a foam paint brush, a info@ourcommunityfocus.com small hammer, a plastic wrapper conA Monthly Publication delivered to over 50,000 Homes and Businesses taining an eight-foot flying balloon in Pleasant Hill, Martinez, Pacheco, (“Throw it, Catch it, Bounce it!”), a pair Lafayette and Walnut Creek of chopsticks, and a box of canning jar lids. And so, hours later, the junk drawer was more or less organized. This drawer represents about two square feet of space, which means that including closets, cabinets and shelves, there are thousands of square feet to go. ADVERTISING Spring cleaning is clearly going to Reba Bower take a while, so let’s have a quick break 925-348-1724 while I share with you entry number Reba@ourcommunityfocus.com 1,418 in the aforementioned The 2,548 SPORTS EDITOR Best Things Anybody Ever Said. It’s a Chuck Nan quote from Zsa Zsa Gabor, who has martinezsportsed@aol.com been married nine times. Here is Zsa GRAPHIC DESIGN Zsa’s take on the subject of housekeepTrish Heaney ing: “I am a marvelous housekeeper. COPY EDITOR Every time I leave a man I keep his Alison Clary house.” Well said. If you have been inspired to attack View the Focus online: your own junk drawer, please let me www.ourcommunityfocus.com know if you find anything interesting! CONTACT INFORMATION: Reach me at julieakross@comcast.net. Community Calendar: calendar@ourcommunityfocus.com
Content & General Inquiries: info@ourcommunityfocus.com
6680 Alhambra Ave. Box #132 Martinez, CA 94553 Phone: (925) 335 - NEWS (6397)
MISSION STATEMENT The Community Focus is a free, independent, monthly publication dedicated to highlighting the vibrancy of the local businesses and residents while strengthening and building connections within our community.
March 2014
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Digital Safari Students Learn Silicon Valley Skills By Mark Westwind We hear a great deal about the “STEM crisis” and how young Americans are not adequately prepared to meet the increasing demand for skilled workers in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). Educators, executives, politicians and pundits are calling for increasing efforts to encourage young people to pursue STEM subjects on the premise that the future of our economy relies on STEMdriven innovations and STEM-based industries. That said, I believe our country is actually experiencing an “ESTEEM crisis.” Not only are young people not sufficiently prepared for STEM jobs, they are also inadequately versed in economics and entrepreneurship, equally as critical to our nation’s economic future because innovations in STEM fields become products and services only through the vision, commitment and hard work of entrepreneurs who understand how our economy works. Think about it: when do we begin teaching kids to play ball? When they’re two, three years old? Or to play the piano? Four, five years old? Yet, when do we begin teaching our kids to be entrepreneurs? For the vast majority of young people, the answer is never. Yes, there are programs that teach young people the basics of small business administration, but we rarely give our young people the opportunity to truly “swing for the fences,” to use a sports metaphor. Following that metaphor, we can look to baseball as a model of how to develop talented young stars: start them early, give them lots of opportunities to practice, and provide a career ladder from little league to the majors. We tell our kids that if they work hard they can be successful, but we cast them into the labor force with virtu-
LtoR: Innovation Fair winners: Luis Guzman (CEO), Alberto Ruiz, Director of Marketing and Sales and Edward Jaimes (CFO) from Mt. Diablo High School.
ally no understanding of how businesses actually work, let alone how to manifest their creativity as innovative new products and services. Also, most young people have few opportunities during their school careers to interact with inspiring, local, and private-sector role models. The Digital Safari Academy at Mt. Diablo High School in Concord is taking on the “ESTEEM crisis” head on via a successful, project-based learning strategy developed over the last twelve years. At the Academy, the fundamentals of entrepreneurship are woven into sophomore and junior year projects, culminating in the senior Innovation Project that is the capstone project in economics, English and multimedia. Each fall, seniors take on executive roles, form start-up companies and invent high-tech products. Each team must design a corporate identity, design a product data sheet, draft a business and marketing plan, make sales and revenue projections, create marketing materials, and build a PowerPoint presentation. All this is in preparation to raise $5-10 million in virtual venture capital -- Silicon Valley entrepreneurship at its best. Oh, and the
technology doesn’t have to be real; it’s innovation without limitation! The project culminates at the Digital Safari Innovation Fair, held each January at Centre Concord. Teams participate in a “tech expo,” where they pitch to “angel investors.” Every fair attendee gets $50,000 virtual dollars to invest. It’s a fun event for students, family and friends, and the fair is now the January mixer for the Concord Chamber of Commerce. “It’s a great way to showcase these talented young people,” says Marilyn Fowler, COO of the chamber. The second half of the fair is a formal business plan competition. The five top companies pitch to a panel of “virtual venture capitalists.” This year’s panelists included Dr. Mac Powell, president of JFK University; Oscar Dominguez, director of the Contra Costa SBDC; and Francis Arnold, AVP for Heritage Bank of Commerce in Walnut Creek. During the semester, teams meet with mentors from the business community, including Fowler, Pat Campbell (retired entrepreneur), Gerriann Smith of Heritage Bank of Commerce, and Pamela Singh, a marketing consultant. “The Innovation Projects program is a state of the art teach-
ing methodology,” says Singh. “By utilizing community leaders to educate students on ‘real life’ business practices, they are acquiring skills that most individuals don’t receive until much later in life, if at all. We are educating our future leaders.” Randy Depew, DSA’s multimedia instructor, says, “Since we implemented Innovation Projects as the core of our teaching methodology, we’ve seen a dramatic increase in the quality of student work and engagement with class. The Innovation Project model has revolutionized how we teach all of our subjects.” Winners of the 9th Annual Digital Safari Innovation Fair were Luis Guzman (CEO), Edward Jaimes (CFO), and Alberto Ruiz, director of marketing and sales. Their company, Ion Inc., developed the IonBand, a wristband for diabetics that “uses reverse iontophoresis, which is a needle and pain-free way for diabetics to check blood glucose levels.” The team will share a $1,000 scholarship award, courtesy of the Patrick and Shirley Campbell Foundation. The fair is sponsored by Heritage Bank, the City of Concord, the Concord Chamber of Commerce, Westwind Associates, and JFK University. For more information, go to www. InnovationFair.org or contact Mark Westwind of The Praxis Group and producer of the Innovation Fair at 925-3728486 or email markwestwind@gmail.com. For more information on the Digital Safari Academy, www.DigitalSafari.org, contact Heather Fontanilla, lead instructor, hfontanilla@digitalsafari.org. The Innovation Fair is another innovation project of The Praxis Group, a 501c3 non-profit organization, Innovative Ideas, Practically Applied. www.PraxisInAction. org.
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March 2014
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March 2014
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The 43rd Annual Community Awards Night for 2013 took place on February 18 at the new Pleasant Hill Community Center. The Awards Committee received 22 nominations this year for six award categories – Teen of the Year, Educator of the Year, Green Award, Community Plus, Business of the Year and Citizen of the Year. In addition, awards are also given for the Chamber Ambassador of the Year and Board Appreciation award; Community Service and Board Appreciation awards by the Recreation & Park District; the Cornerstone Award by the Community Foundation; and the Mayor’s Award. The winners of the twelve award categories include: Citizen of the Year – Paul Cotruvo Pleasant Hill Chamber Board Appreciation Award – Matt Rinn Green Award – The Green Team at Sequoia Elementary School
Teen of the Year – Natalie Hill and Aubrey Kring Educator of the Year – William Hotter, Pleasant Hill Elementary Community Plus Award – Kendra Luke PH Community Foundation Cornerstone Award – Suzanne Salter Mayor’s Award – Cindy Rubin, Foundation for Pleasant Hill Education, and the PH Recreation & Park District PH Rec & Park District Board Appreciation Award – John Matthesen & Marian Woodard and Harold Jeffrey PH Rec & Park District Community Service Award – Paul Cotruvo Business of the Year – Pleasant Hill Coin and Jewelry Exchange Pleasant Hill Chamber Ambassador of the Year – Julie McCoy Congratulations to all the winners.
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PLEASANT HILL CITY BUZZ
On February 7, I delivered the State of the City address to the Pleasant Hill Chamber of Commerce and reviewed what new businesses are coming to town and how we attract them with marketing and branding efforts, community events, and capital improvements. (The video of the address is available on the City Channel on Vimeo and the PowerPoint on the city’s website.) After years of belt tightening, budget cutbacks, hiring freezes and declining revenue, Pleasant Hill expects a modest surplus at the end of the current fiscal year. General fund revenues, primarily sales and property tax, have been trending up as the economy improves, and we expect that trend to continue. This year, the city will be adopting a new, two-year budget for the fiscal years 2014 through 2016, and the discussion of that budget will necessarily include review of our community priorities. While the 2014-2016 budget process unfolds, several major capital improvement projects already approved will begin. The total cost for all projects is over $33 million. The very good news is that nearly 90%, over $30 million of the construction costs, are being paid from regional, state and federal
March 2014
Mayor’s Message
Tim Flaherty, Mayor of Pleasant Hill grants and not the city’s general fund. The Golf Club Road Bridge over Our engineering department is to be Grayson Creek was constructed in 1953. commended for their resourcefulness In 2000, a Caltrans study identified the in identifying funding of important bridge as being structurally deficient and infrastructure improvements without in need of replacement. This $4+ million negatively impacting our budget prioriproject is expected to start this spring ties. and be completed in 2015. Here is a quick summary of some of Buskirk Avenue the projects you will soon notice as you This $12.7 million project will drive around town. extend and realign the roadway south Roadway Enhancements of Geary of the existing Crossroads Shopping Road Center intersection, ultimately creating This $10 million project, in parta transportation corridor with increased nership with the City of Walnut Creek, capacity and circulation to meet the will improve Geary Road from Putnam local and regional traffic demands along Boulevard to Pleasant Hill Road. The the corridor for the next 25 years. The improvements will include the construcfirst phase of major work realigning tion of continuous left turn lanes, a bike Buskirk was completed in December lane and new pedestrian sidewalks. 2013. Phase II is on schedule to be comThe redesign of the intersection of pleted by September 2014. Geary and Pleasant Hill Roads, which Citywide Gateway Enhancement has already begun, will be completed Project with gateway monuments identifying Pleasant Hill’s current gateway Pleasant Hill boundaries (more on that below). Roadway Enhancements Along Contra Costa Blvd This $5+ million project will dramatically improve the section of Contra Costa Blvd. from Viking Drive to Chilpancingo with the addition of new traffic signals, a bicycle lane, street resurfacing, median replacement and major landscape improvements. Bridge Replacement And Roadway Enhancements At Golf Club Road
monuments lack the iconic and modern branding flavor the city needs to implement and update its image. The city’s current gateway monuments, the pagodas, are in various states of disrepair and shrouded in overgrown landscape shrubbery. The objective of this project is to enhance the overall appearance of the city, encourage new investment and increase sales tax revenue. The city has reached out to design firms for design concepts and enhancements, city branding, and wayfinding signage. The city will also seek community input and consultation throughout the design process. Discussing city finance is admittedly dry, so I’ll end on a fun note. Happy Saint Patrick’s Day! I hope to see you at Pleasant Hill Rotary’s “St. Patrick’s Night of Merriment” at the new Community Center on March 14 at 5:30pm. Tickets can be purchased by calling 925-9385433 or emailing jbonato@aol.com.
Public Meetings Architectural Review Commission March 6, 20 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane Small Community Room, 5pm Contact: 671-5209
Education Commission March 26 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane Large Community Room, 7pm Contact: 671-5229
City Council March 3, 17 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane Council Chambers, 7:30pm Contact: 671-5229
Planning Commission March 11, 25 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane Council Chambers, 7:30pm Contact: 671-5209
Civic Action Commission March 5 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane Small Community Room, 6:30pm Contact: 671-5229
All meetings take place at City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill. For Confirmation Visit: www.ci.pleasanthill.ca.us
This bridge replaces the existing bridge, originally constructed in 1953. The completed project will enhance accessibility for pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists to the surrounding neighborhoods, commercial businesses and shopping centers, school campuses and the transit center located at Diablo Valley College. The new bridge will provide four 11-foot traffic lanes with adjacent 5-foot shoulders and 5-foot sidewalks on both sides, including a 12-foot landscape median island. In January the City received official approval from Caltrans to proceed with construction and authorized $3.54 million in federal construction funds for the project. Demolition of the north side bridge (one half) and construction of the replacement bridge begins this year. Demolition of the south side bridge (other half) and construction of the replacement bridge begins in 2015.
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March 2014
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Mayor’s Message
Over the past few months, mayors of cities all over the country have followed in the tradition of the president annually addressing Congress Photo by Stahlberg to report on the State of the Union. Our governor reported to the state legislature in early February, and I reported on the state of Martinez not long afterward. The theme of my address was that the City of Martinez continues to be in excellent financial condition, but needs to continue to work on economic development opportunities to provide for longterm stability and improvement to the services we provide for our residents and businesses. Due to increasing property values in the city, our property tax income has increased by $400,000 over last year to a total of $6.5 million. Sales tax is up by $100,000 from last year to a total of $3.7 million. The city’s unrestricted reserve fund (our savings account) is expected to grow to $4.8 million by the end of this fiscal year. This is almost 25% of our general fund, which is a sign of a healthy financial position. Although our financial picture is looking good, we are in a vulnerable position due to the fact that only a handful of Martinez businesses generate almost 30% of the sales tax for the city. The loss of any of them would create major issues with our ability to keep city services at a high level. Do you remember when Costco closed in Martinez in early 2000? Twentyfive percent of Martinez’ sales tax van-
MARTINEZ CITY BUZZ
Rob Schroder, Mayor of Martinez ished, sending panic through city hall and downtown and waterfront. This is one op- opment in Martinez. In the near future, the community. We managed to recover portunity that we must find a way to make I will be proposing additional programs from that loss when Walmart located in a reality. designed to make Martinez a more attracthat former space and when Home Club Above are just some examples of tive place in which to live, visit and conwas replaced by Yardbird’s and then Home how we are working on economic develduct business. Depot. This is why economic development is so critical to the long-term financial health of the city and the quality of life Food Trucks at the Marina Food Truck Mafia (FTM) will be hosting weekly food truck events called “Martifor Martinez residents. This includes big nez Street Eats,” beginning March 15, from 11am – 3pm, every Saturday at the picture projects, such as developing the Martinez Marina in the parking lot, directly in front of the Harbor Master’s Ofwaterfront and rebuilding the Marina, to fice. The plan is for six food trucks at the first event providing different types of smaller projects, such as recently repaintcuisine. Each week, FTM will provide tables and chairs for guests to use as well ing the historic Southern Pacific train staas live music or a DJ as entertainment. tion. In mid-March, the Benjamin Moore Professional Baseball Team Coming to Martinez? “Paint What Matters” program will kick At the February 5 city council meeting, Mayor Rob Schroder stated that he off with several blocks of Main Street met with MUSD Board Member John Fuller and Superintendent Rami Muth, buildings getting a fresh coat of paint, and Alhambra High Athletic Director Pat Ertola, Corey Bush, and three owners of a professional baseball team to discuss a possible site in Martinez for an indethe Martinez waterfront will be the venue pendent league called The Pacific Association of Professional Baseball Clubs. for the weekly Saturday Food Truck MaThey are looking at using Field 2 in the Martinez Waterfront Park, next to the fia’s “Martinez Street Eats.” train tracks and the equestrian area. The team would play 41 home games The city will be hosting a concert at during an 82 game season, from June to August, and would be held during the amphitheater, located in the Martinez the week and on the weekend. The Pacific Association has stated that these Waterfront Park, on Saturday, May 10. The games would be low-cost family entertainment. Portable lights and bleachers concert will be an all-age musical festival, would be brought in to handle between 500-700 people. Mayor Schroder notwith approximately five acts throughout ed that the name of the team would be the Martinez Clippers, and city staff the day, headlining with Elvin Bishop. The has begun to explore the opportunities and challenges as planning is in the very preliminary stages. “It is a growing league; they have professional players, concert will have a blues theme with the two teams in Hawaii, and they currently have teams in Santa Rosa, San Rafael, tentative event name, “Blues on the Bay.” Vallejo and Sonoma, and want to open up another franchise here (in MartiAlthough the set times have not been finez). It has enormous economic development potential,” said Mayor Schroder. nalized, it will mostly likely run 3 to 9pm. Bay Area Blues Festival in Martinez! You have probably heard about the The Bay Area Blues Festival has been moved proposal to bring a professional, indepenfrom San Francisco to Martinez. The event will be dent baseball team to Martinez at Waterheld on September 27 and 28. “We have high front Park. The proposed team is part of hopes for this event. It will give all of us here not the Pacific League and will be called the only the opportunity to hear the best blues bands from throughout the state without having to travMartinez Clippers to honor Martinezel somewhere else, but should bring ten to fifteen born Joe DiMaggio. The season will be 82 thousand visitors to Martinez and help consoligames, with 41 played at home, providdate our growing position as a cultural destinaing a low-cost, family-oriented event that tion for the Bay Area,” said Main Street Martinez could bring thousands of people to our
City News
Public Meetings City Council Meeting March 5, 19 7pm-11pm Contact: 925-372-3500
Planning Commission Meeting March 11, 25 7-11pm Contact: 925-372-3500
Design Review Meeting March 12, 26 3-5pm Contact: 925-372-3500
Zoning Administrator Meeting March 5, 19 3-5pm Contact: 925-372-3500
All City Meetings at City Hall, 525 Henrietta Street, Unless Otherwise Indicated. For Confirmation Visit: www.cityofmartinez.org
President John Curtis. The Festival will feature two stages, arts and crafts, food booths, professional chalk artists and more.
Benjamin Moore/Main Street Update A community meeting was hosted at City Hall on February 4 to discuss the “Paint What Matters” campaign, spearheaded by Main Street Martinez. Kelly Sinatra, communications manager for Benjamin Moore said, “Our field producer spoke to a group of about 16 townspeople at the February 4 meeting to educate everyone on the program. It seemed that the attendees were really excited about the opportunity to improve this section of town and motivate neighboring areas that we’re not able to repaint. Lead testing is taking place, and we are in the process of identifying local contractors to bid on the project. The painting is slated to take place in May.”
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March 2014
SparkPoint Director Honored for Leadership volunteer activities and Award season is their contributions to fully underway, and the improving the lives of Contra Costa Women’s women and children Commission Hall of through their careers. Fame awards add even Betty Geishirt Canmore to the fanfare. trell, MSSW, MBA, is The CCWC Hall of the director of SparkFame has announced Point Contra Costa, the women who were a financial education selected as outstanding center that helps inachievers in five catdividuals and families egories. Pleasant Hill’s who are struggling to Betty Geishirt Cantrell make ends meet. She will be honored in the has served as the direccategory of Women Demonstrating LeaderBetty Geishirt Cantrell tor of both a rape crisis program (Louisiana) ship. “These women were chosen for their exceptional skills, and a sex offenders’ treatment program (New York) and was the chief of social talents, and strengths, along with their services of a private psychiatric hospiwisdom and integrity,” said Commistal (Tennessee). Since coming to Calisioner Nancie Zimmerman, co-chair fornia, she has been the development of the event. “This is our opportunity director and program administrator of to honor these outstanding women nonprofits and the project director of for making a difference in their coma major NIH-funded research grant. munities.” The Hall of Fame honors Betty and her husband Wade have women throughout the county for
You have only so many years to prepare for retirement. That’s why contributing to your Individual Retirement Account (IRA) is so important. Fortunately, you still have time to maximize your 2013 IRA contribution before the April 15 deadline. By contributing now, your retirement savings can have more opportunity to grow. Even if you already have an IRA elsewhere, it’s easy to transfer it to an Edward Jones IRA and begin receiving the face-to-face guidance you deserve.
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lived in Pleasant Hill since 1995, where they raised their daughter and son, now successful young adults. Betty and Wade are very active volunteers in their community and were recently nominated for Business Persons of the Year for Pleasant Hill’s annual Community Awards Night. The public is invited to this celebration of women who tirelessly work to change the world, one community at a time. The Hall of Fame awards
dinner will be held on Thursday, March 20, at the Concord Crowne Plaza at 6:30pm. Contact Nancie Zimmerman at info@womenscommission.com or 925 890-9221 for additional information and visit the Commission’s website at www.womenscommission.com for a complete list of honorees. The Contra Costa Women’s Commission Hall of Fame is a biennial event held in March to coincide with the celebration of Women’s History Month.
Inspection Traps 11 Critical Home Inspection Traps to be Aware of Weeks Before Listing Your Home for Sale East Bay – According to industry experts, there are over 33 physical problems that will come under scrutiny during a home inspection when your home is for sale. A new report has been prepared which identifies the eleven most common of these problems, and what you should know about them before you list your home for sale. Whether you own an old home or a brand new one, there are a number of things that can fall short of requirements during a home inspection. If not identified and dealt with, any of these 11 items could cost you dearly in terms of repair. That’s why it’s critical that you read this report before you list your home. If you wait until the home inspector flags these issues for you, you will almost certainly experience costly
delays in the close of your home sale or, worse, turn prospective buyers away altogether. In most cases you can make a reasonable pre-inspection yourself if you know what you’re looking for and knowing what you’re looking for can help you prevent little problems from growing into costly and unmanageable ones. To help home sellers deal with this issue before their homes are listed, a free report entitled “11 Things You Need to Know to Pass Your Home Inspection” has been prepared which explains the issues involved. To order this FREE Special Report call toll-free 1-800-597-9215 and enter 1238. You can call any time, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Get your FREE special report NOW to learn how to ensure a home inspection doesn’t cost you the sale of your home. This report is courtesy of East Bay Residential Realty, BRE 01245396. Not intended to solicit buyers or sellers currently under contract. Copyright © 2013
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Do you have a big event coming up? Don’t want to cook? Let CMTH take care of all your catering needs! We Offer A Variety Of Fresh And Healthy Ingredients, Many Locally Sourced. Snacks Or Full Meals, Pick Up, Drop Off Or Full Service. Starters • Salads • Sandwiches • Entrees • Desserts For more information call General Manager Kevin Sharp at (925) 250-6904 or Email: Kevin@creekmonkey.com
info@creekmonkey.com • www.CreekMonkey.com
Rain or Shine. No Refunds.
Event is 21 years and over only.
April 12, 2014 • 12pm to 4pm
Martinez Waterfront Park 40+ Local Microbreweries | Live Music | Food | FUN! Beer Tasting $35 (at the door $45) Includes Logo tasting glass & unlimited tasting!
Designated Drivers $5(at the door $10)
Includes reusable water bottle. While supplies last
www.BayAreaCraftBeerFestival.com A Main Street Martinez Event 649 Main St., Suite 106, Martinez, CA 94553 • 925.228-3577
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Page 12
March 2014
PLEASANT HILL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Please verify schedule at www.pleasanthillchamber.com • 925-687-0700
3/6 – Ribbon Cutting 5pm. Youth Homes Auxiliary Thrift Shop, 15 B Vivian Dr, PH.
sa, 1350 Arnold Dr., Ste 100, Mtz. 3/31 – Green Committee Meeting 4-5pm. Back Forty BBQ, 100 Coggins Drive, PH.
3/7 – Ambassador Meeting 8-9am. PH City Hall, Community Room.
3/31 – Govt. Affairs Committee Meeting 5:30-7pm. Back Forty BBQ, 100 Coggins Drive, PH.
3/11, 3/12, 3/13 & 3/25, 3/26, 3/27– 680 Breakfast Club Networking 8:30-10am. Call Chamber office for information.
CALENDAR SPONSORED BY
3/13 – Business Mixer 5-7pm. Total Property Solutions, 3490 Buskirk Ave, PH.
3/20 – Ribbon Cutting 5pm. Edward Jones - Yvonne Cere-
MARTINEZ CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Please verify schedule at www.martinezchamber.com • 925-228-2345
For More Information Regarding Ambassador Meeting – If interested in attending, contact (925) 228-2345 or email info@martinezchamber.com 3/13 – Chamber Mixer – Thursday, 5:30pm-7:30pm, I’ve Been Framed & GLT Sign Solutions, 411 Ferry Street, Martinez. Great networking, food, fun, raffle prizes (bring a raffle prize and have your business announced!) SAVE THE DATE – Citizen of the Year Awards Dinner – Saturday, April 26, 2014, 6-9pm at the Martinez Events Cent-
er, 524 Main St., Martinez. We will be honoring citizens from the community for their contributions to the betterment of Martinez. For dinner tickets and more information call the Chamber @ 925-228-2345. CALENDAR SPONSORED BY
Since 1952 -Contra Costa’s Oldest Agency
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A PROUD RECIPIENT OF DIABLO MAGAZINE’S FIVE STAR AWARD FOR 2012-2013! !
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Suzanne Looker 34)+'$/&0$5'6&-.7*$8&,70)'" !"#$%&'&$()'$*)+$,-.$*)+'$/&012
2014 - 2015
A Resource for the Community
Coming in Summer 2014
3/20 – Board of Directors Meeting 8-9am. PH City Hall, Community Room.
BUSINESS DIRECTORY
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The Directory contains information about Pleasant Hill’s local history and landmarks, recreation and parks, and a calendar of annual events and festivals. It’s a resource for current residents as well as those who are new to the area. Don’t miss this once-a-year opportunity to reach the residents of this vibrant community! 10,000 copies will be delivered to all single-family homes, businesses and Pleasant Hill Chamber members. DIRECTORY INCLUDES: • Full Color Glossy Pages • Your Business listed by both Category & Index • Free Listings with any Display Ad • ¼, ½ and Full Page Ad Space • Discounted Price on Business Listing for Chamber Members Advertisers and businesses listed must hold a current business license to operate in Pleasant Hill or must be a current member of the Pleasant Hill Chamber.
Contact (925) 335-NEWS (6397) or email guide@ourcommunityfocus.com Chamber Members Contact Ann Luke at (925) 687-0700 or email Ann@pleasanthillchamber.com FREE ON-LINE LINK TO YOUR WEBSITE!
10,000 DISTRIBUTED
DEADLINE: APRIL 15 2014
March 2014
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Page 13
Quincy to Lake Almanor Quincy is a hard-working, bucolic little town with travel amenities, modern services and beautiful scenery. Most motels are located at the southern end of town and a mile or so south of the central district. The city is divided by one-way streets, so take time to travel up and back a few times to get a good feel for the shops and restaurants available to you. For breakfast, try the Courthouse Cafe or Morning Thunder; for dinner, people recommended Sweet Lorraine’s, Pangaea and Moon’s restaurants. There are any number of reasonable motels and B&B’s in the area as well. (Check out the Trip Advisor website for more options.) To enjoy Quincy and color, I recommend planning short day trips in and around the area. Armed with your map of choice, you can identify some lovely roads, south and east of town, that take you short distances around Quincy. From here, you will surely see picturesque ranches, homes, one-lane roads and, very likely, many deer who, mysteriously, don’t seem to mind slow driving, respectful drivers. Use good common sense when entering these country roads; these are neighborhoods, so please respect property by staying clear of driveways, and refrain from petting and feeding the animals you
Story and Photos by Christopher Vardas world renowned and serve as inspiration encounter. If they are wild, keep them for many model railroad designs. At the wild. junction, turn northeast and continue I recommend the road to alpine up Hwy 89 some 15 additional miles to Buck Lake up to the point where Greenville on the way to Lake Almanor. you begin a very steep climb along a Along the way, you will traverse some demanding, narrow road. The flat-land of the most scenic highways imaginable. approach of the highway was rich with The canyons are steep, the vistas long, color, photo opportunities and picturand the fall color subtly superb (mostly esque views of hillsides and country yellows, oranges and tones of brown). ranches. Additionally, spend some time There are ample places along the highexploring the roads just south and east way to turn off for access to the river of Quincy for a more leisurely stroll and numerous waterfalls that dot the through stunning, colorful areas. You landscape. Credit California’s Departmay notice and wonder why so many ment of Transportation for providing of the surrounding farms and ranches ample pull-outs on most stretches of have barns adorned with sophisticated, these highways to allow for slower traffic quilt symbols. As it turns out, there is and places to appreciate the view. a friendly, yearly competition among Possible side trip: If color or advenquilters to find matching emblems on barns throughout the area. According to ture is your cup of tea, then consult a good quality map for this trip into the an Internet search (www.barnquiltinfo. high country above Quincy and Greencom), people organize quilt symbol ville to Antelope Lake. To get there “trails” across the country. The choice requires a sense of curiosity, faith and of design on each person’s barn is a love of backroads. The pavement is genpersonal one. Quilt trails might include erally good and safe for standard cars. art galleries, fences, homes and historic Still, move along the roads slowly to best buildings. appreciate this backcountry adventure. Be sure to fill your tank before A few miles up Highway 89 from leaving Quincy. Head north along the junction turnoff is the quaint, Hwy 89/70 about 10 miles to the juncplateau-top town of Greenville. This is tion where Hwy 70 follows the scenic pretty much a one-intersection town Feather River to Oroville and the valley with a corner cafe smack in the midbelow. Just before the turnoff, you may dle (Anna’s Cafe). The town lacks the see long, beautiful train trestles that are
services of Quincy, but does have a motel, a few nice shops and the friendly Plumas County Chamber of Commerce chief whom we met at Anna’s café. He charmed us with adventure ideas and an invitation to plan a return visit to his little town. (We will.) A few more miles up the road is the large, man-made reservoir called Lake Almanor. The east side is a bit more developed with summer homes, services and slower driving. The west side highway is fast moving, wide and comfortable, with numerous access points to the lake. This water source is also located along a major north-south bird migration path. Consequently, it is a good place to observe birds of prey. Lake Almanor remains, after some 80 years, a favorite fishing spot for Northern California anglers. As a small boy, I well remember spending many a cold morning in a fishing boat watching my father set the bait on his hooks, wait, reel and reset the bait for what seemed an eternity (until lunch). In the distance, Mt. Lassen looms ever closer as you approach the town of Chester, at the northern boundary of Lake Almanor. Next up: Chester, Susanville and the road to Tule Lake View more of Christopher and Elaine’s photos at www.vardasphotography.com.
Page 14
www.ourcommunityfocus.com
March 2014
Improved Values Bring Better Homes to Market
By Nathan Hitchcock found yourself on the losing end of a the first of the year. is our real estate market. Like a pack bidding war or two already this year. But These improved home values are of thoroughbreds exploding out of the resulting in an interesting shift in market don’t despair! Look for more of these gates at the start of a race, homebuyers inventory. In stark contrast to the condi- nicely updated homes to come to market are clamoring to purchase the relatively in the weeks ahead. If my client list is tion of the distressed homes we saw for modest supply of homes currently for any indication, there are many owners of sale in the bust years, today’s market has sale. these fine homes who are ready to make a healthy supply of exceptionally nice The competition is fierce, and the a change this spring. resultant bidding wars are pushing prices homes for sale. Like butterflies hiding in their cocoons waiting for the environ- Additional evidence in support of up rapidly. Although it’s far too soon to this theory? The increasingly long wait ment to be just right, these gorgeous have any supporting market numbers, homes are popping up in neighborhoods lists I’m finding myself on for the home my firsthand experience is pointing to at stagers, painters, flooring contractors, everywhere, ready to financially reward least a 5% increase in home prices since gardeners, and other vendors whose their owners. services I routinely use when helping cli In many cases, a move has been on the minds of these owners for some time, ents prepare to sell their homes. All are booked up tighter than they have been in but until recently, home values simply years. would not support a sale price that But while increased inventory is would permit the owners to recoup the By Daniel DuRee assured, only time will tell if it will be investments they made in their home. as a 401(k) or an IRA, are not included When you hear Their patience has proven to be a virtue. enough to satiate the demand from buyas part of the gross estate. For a person about estate planning ers. Keep an eye on this column to see With the Bay Area’s robust economy, that has the bulk of their assets in a tax in California, the how the story unfolds. It’s going to be today’s buyers are quite well off finandeferred account, a trust may not be conversation often quite an adventure either way. cially and are more than willing to pay necessary to avoid probate. revolves around creat Nathan Hitchcock can be reached handsomely for the finer things in life. With a simple will, the testaing a revocable living at nathan@hitchcockrealty.com or (925) If you are a buyer in the market for tor (the person who creates the will) trust to pass property just such a home, you’ve more than likely 825-1100. appoints an executor who will carry outside of probate. However, dependout their wishes. As long as the gross ing on the amount and character of estate is worth less than one hundred assets, some people only need a will to and fifty thousand dollars, a formal pass their property without a formal probate proceeding is not required. probate proceeding. “Nathan was Real estate is usually what necessi If you have read my past artia dream to tates the creation of a trust, but for a cles or done much research into the work with. Very person who doesn’t own real estate and estate planning area, you are probprofessional, doesn’t have significant assets outside ably somewhat familiar with the court hardworking Our goal is not to sell the most homes, it's to get and easy of tax deferred retirement accounts, a supervised probate process and the YOU the most for YOUR home. going. He put will may be sufficient to pass property myriad of reasons California residents That comes with quality, not quantity. Call or click our needs outside of probate. wish to avoid it. Probate avoidance is today and experience the difference for yourself. before his.” the primary reason many people create In California, a will may be Joe Resident handwritten or typed, and the testa925.825.1100 • www.hitchcockrealty.com a revocable living trust. But if protor must sign the will. If a will is not bate can be avoided without creating handwritten, the testator must sign it a trust, a simple will may suffice for in the presence of two uninterested some people. parties who must also sign. If you In California, any estate with a Estate Planning Attorney have any questions about wills, trusts, gross estate value of more than one or any other areas of estate planning, hundred and fifty thousand dollars Please call today don’t hesitate to call my office for a free must go through probate. There are a for a complimentary consultation consultation. few exceptions to what is included in at my office or in your home. Daniel L. DuRee is a third generathe gross estate that leave some people tion resident of Contra Costa County below the probate limit. Of course, 925.210.1400 1535 North Main Street, and a licensed attorney practicing in the California Probate Code does not Suite 240 • Walnut Creek Walnut Creek. He can be reached at consider any asset held in a trust to be WILLS • TRUSTS • HEALTHCARE DIRECTIVES (925) 210-1400 or visit www.DuReeLpart of the gross estate. Similarly, any POWERS OF ATTORNEY • PROBATE tax deferred investment accounts, such aw.com. While the majority of the nation has spent most of 2014 under a deep freeze, here in California we’re experiencing weather more akin to April and May than January and February. You sure wouldn’t know by the looks of it that spring is still more than a month away. Also getting a head start on spring
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March 2014
Page 15
FPHE Kicks Off 6th Annual Campaign! Be a Part of Progress – Donate Today for the Future of Our Community’s Schools
6th Annual Campaign Goal: $60,000 How You Can Help: Foundation for Pleasant Hill Education (FPHE) suggests a donation of $75 or more. Donations of all amounts are appreciated. FPHE’s ability to issue school grants is solely dependent on the support of the community. How to Donate: Donate online at www.fphe.org or mail to FPHE, P.O. Box 23851, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523. How are donations used? Funds raised go to school grants issued in May 2014. Why Give? Strong Schools Benefit You. Strong schools greatly benefit students. They also help increase property values as more homebuyers understand our community’s dedication to supporting local education. Businesses thrive and grow. Most importantly, strong schools enhance the future of our community. Dine Out for Education: Don’t miss FPHE’s Dine Out for Education events held every Tuesday in March! Includes lunch, dinner and take out. Present the flier (found at www.fphe.org and www.ourcommunityfocus.com) and restaurants will donate a portion of your meal to FPHE. Some donate up to 50%! • March 4 – Magoo’s Grill of Pleasant Hill, 1250 Contra Costa Blvd. • March 11 – Round Table Pizza, 1938 Oak Park Blvd. & 716 Contra Costa Blvd. • March 18 – Slow Hand BBQ, 1941 Oak Park Blvd. • March 25 – Wence’s Restaurant, 1922 Oak Park Blvd. Learn More: To become a FPHE member or learn more about 2014 campaign events, email contact@fphe.org.
Be a Part of Progress - Donate Today at www.fphe.org or mail the coupon below Questions? Email contact@fphe.org. Thank you for your commitment to education and our community.
HELP SCHOOLS THRIVE - GIVE $75! DONATE AT www.fphe.org
Donations to FPHE’s 2014 Annual Campaign reduce the impact budget cuts have on the 11 Pleasant Hill public schools. Your donation directly benefits language arts, math, science and enrichment programs.
I wish to contibute the following to Foundation for Pleasant Hill Education: $75
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Page 16
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There are several upsides to drought, starting with bringing attention to a resource most of us take for granted as infinite and cheap. We now need to become more aware, creative and skillful in how we use and reuse water, that liquid giver of all life. What’s a home gardener to do this summer? • Plan with your neighbors what each of you can grow and share, e.g., you grow lettuces and herbs; your neighbor grows squash and peppers. Trade lemons for figs. • Trade your lawn, or at least some of it, to grow part of your own food. A 1,000 square foot patch of grass uses between 3500 – 8500 gallons of water per month. You can grow an incredible amount of tasty edibles with less than that, contributing to bee and butterfly health as well as your own. Besides, well-planned edible gardens make a lush and beautiful landscape! Concerning vegetables, John Jeavons (www.growbiointensive.org) offers great advice such as: • Start seeds in seed flats instead of sowing directly in the ground. There are several reasons to do this, but a big one is you save huge amounts of water because you only have to water a small space until seedlings are ready for transplant. • Make your own compost and get as much into the soil as you can. The more organic matter, of which humus and compost are critical components, the better the soil’s ability to hold water, so less water is needed. Other resources: • The Master Gardener office (http://ccmg.ucanr.edu/Ask_Us/). • Drop by Rodgers Ranch Urban Farm on Saturdays. We’re actively planning for summer vegetable gardening in drought, and we’re happy to show you what we’re doing or answer your questions. SAVE THE DATE! The Second Annual Rodgers Ranch Expo and Plant Sale is Saturday, April 5, 10am – 4pm. Last year’s sale was so successful, we’re doing it again with thousands of heirloom tomatoes, vegetables, herbs, natives and beneficial flowers, plus free instruction on how to help them thrive with less water than you might think. Check here for schedule, vendor and class updates: www.RodgersRanchUrbanFarm.org.
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Page 18
CORKS AND FORKS
March 2014
Pair Up With La Sommelierre Maria Terry
Fresh from the Garden Every year, spring feels like a new beginning. Many people make New Year’s resolutions to eat more healthfully starting in January; I think spring is a more natural starting point. Here is a wonderful menu that takes advantage of fresh produce and offers wines to pair with them. Keep in mind that vegetables are notoriously difficult to pair with wine because they have bitter flavors. I chose a lightly sweet/floral white wine to offset the bitterness and a red wine lower in tannin, since tannin is the bitter component in a red wine. Start with a salad of “less bitter” greens. Choose butter lettuce for its mild flavor, baby romaine for crunch,
and young spinach for color. For added texture, include vegetables like mushrooms, green onion, and some diced Campari tomatoes (surprisingly good year-round). Top your salad with a dressing that is not too acidic, like the Tarragon Vinaigrette listed here. Pair with a white wine like Verdelho. Originally from Portugal, Verdelho is a white wine that reminds me of Pinot Grigio. It has soft citrus flavors accented by pretty floral
Spring Vegetable Soup with Pesto
INGREDIENTS Soup: 1 cup dried navy or white beans, rinsed 1 bay leaf 1 tsp. fresh thyme, finely chopped 2 medium leeks, diced and rinsed well 2 medium carrots, diced 8 ounces Red Bliss or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed 1 pound plum tomatoes, cubed 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth 4 ounces green beans, cut into 1/2-inch pieces 1 small zucchini, cubed 1 cup fresh shelled or thawed frozen peas Pesto: 2 small garlic cloves 2 cups (loosely packed) fresh basil leaves 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil DIRECTIONS Cover beans with 6 cups cold water in a
large pot. Bring to a boil; remove from heat. Let stand, covered, 1 hour. Drain beans; return to pot. Cover with 3 quarts cold water. Add bay leaf and thyme; bring to boil. Reduce heat to medium; simmer, partially covered, until beans are barely tender, about 2 hours. Add leeks, carrots, potatoes, tomatoes, broth, and 2 cups water. Simmer, partially covered, until the beans are tender, about 30 minutes to one hour. Make pesto: Finely chop garlic in a food processor. Add basil and process. Add cheese and oil; process until combined. Add green beans and zucchini to pot. Cook, uncovered, 20 minutes. Add peas; cook until soft, 5 to 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Divide among bowls; top each with 1 heaping teaspoon pesto. Yield: 6 Servings
notes. Quite a few wineries in California are choosing to make this wine in both a dry and lightly sweet style. Of course, if you can’t find a Verdelho, Pinot Gris/Grigio works in a pinch. Next, we have salad’s quintessential partner, soup. Spring Vegetable Soup with Pesto has so many healthful ingredients; I feel healthier just reading the recipe! The good news is that it incorporates ingredients that soften the bitterness of the “green” ingredients and make it more wine friendly. The starchy richness of the beans and potatoes along with the sweetness imparted by the carrots and peas are helpful to a wine pairing. When choosing a partner for
Dr. Melissa Hubiak Email: drhubiak@skinsciencemedspa.com Phone: 925.334.2210
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Tarragon Vinaigrette
INGREDIENTS ¼ tsp. kosher salt 1 tbsp. white balsamic vinegar 4½ tbsp. olive oil ¼ tsp. egg yolk ½ tsp. honey ½ tsp. tarragon, chopped fine ½ tsp. shallots, chopped fine
Fresh ground pepper to taste DIRECTIONS Whisk together salt and vinegar. Add remaining ingredients and whisk for 15 seconds or until texture is thick. Yield: about 1/3 cup or enough for 6-8 salad servings.
this soup, I immediately think of Italian grapes because of their naturally higher acids. Dolcetto comes to mind because it has relatively lower tannins than some of its brethren. Another low-tannin red is Pinot Noir. For dessert, I wanted to share a recipe that I had as a child when visiting my grandmother who lived near the orange-growing capital of California, San Bernardino. This Fresh Orange Pie was so unique and delicious; I had to get the recipe from Edwards Mansion. It is possible to pair this dessert with an Orange Muscat wine, but perhaps sparkling water with orange slices would be a fresher ending to this deliciously fresh meal. So, go on. Pair Up! Find the Fresh Orange Pie recipe at www.LaSommelierre.com and www. ourcommunityfocus.com. Maria Terry is a Certified Sommelier and Wine Educator in the San Francisco Bay Area. www.LaSommelierre.com.
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Page 19
Improving Speed Through Strength
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Every week, parents contact us to ask how we can make their child quicker and faster. They believe speed ladders and box jumps are needed to accomplish this. Our response is that neither is needed; what their child needs is strength. Surprisingly, strength is the most overlooked area when it comes to creating speed, but it is the most fundamental. You can make a car go a little faster by putting on a car-
By Kevin Arndt bon fiber hood, new air filter, or spoiler, but unless you rip the engine out and replace it with one with substantially more horsepower, you won’t see the results you are looking for. Athletes will improve with box jumps, ladder drills and “plyometrics,” but until they start building up their strength, they won’t get significant results. This is not to say those things don’t have
their place, but they shouldn’t be the main focus when creating speed, at least not until they have the foundation first. To explain this a bit further, I’ll need to “geek up” a bit. When discussing speed in relation to athletes, we are truly discussing power. The formula for power is: Power = (Force X Distance)/Time. Each one of these can be improved upon. If we increase force or decrease time we can increase power (speed). Generally, parents are looking at the time part of the equation, but when talking about young athletes, the one that can be manipulated the most is usually force (strength). If we can increase total strength, power will increase, which will increase speed. The best way for a young athlete to increase speed is through strength training. Kevin Arndt is an athletic trainer at Forma Gum in Walnut Creek. Contact him via Kevin@formagym.com or visit www.formagym.com.
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Page 20
HOME TEAM
Jordan Signs With SSU
Congratulations to College Park senior Jessica Jordan for signing a letter of intent to play soccer at Sonoma State. Go Seawolves!
March 2014
DVAL Wrestling College Park will be sending twelve wrestlers to compete at NCS in Newark: Kailen Kelley - 106 (currently ranked 7th at NCS), Gavin Hughes – 113, Nate Prado – 120, Gabe Lomas – 126, Danny Croff - 132 (currently ranked 8th at NCS), Romello Monjaras - 152 (currently ranked 2nd at NCS), Marc Wilhelm - 162 (currently ranked 1st at NCS), Daniel Prast – 170, Cole Stockdale – 182, Kelan Bomar – 195, Matthew Zachery - 220 (currently ranked 1st at NCS), Wil Faraghan - 285 (heavyweight). : Submitted by Richard Burton Quentin Wright – 220 from Alhambra High School is currently ranked 2nd at NCS.
Hawks are Champions
Falcon Danny Croff wrestling at Maria Carillo High School in Santa Rosa. Photo by Richard Burton.
A Sea of Purple The Pleasant Hill Hawks 14U team earned the championship trophy February 17. Kneeling – Abe Ledesma, Ian Torres, Jack Belfiore, Tyler Nelson, Brandon Hatcher, Grant Smith. Standing – Coach Don Wildes, Pat Curran, Manager Paul Damhesel, Jared Hedrick, Ryan Birdwell, Cole Gifford, Nick Cirelli, Garret Swartz, Ryan Flannigan, Coach Doug Seandel, Coach Elliot Davidson. Photo by Jennifer Hendrick.
CTK Wins it All
Christ the King’s 3rd grade basketball team, CTK 2, beat Santa Maria in the semifinals, then defeated it’s sister team, CTK 1, in the championship game on February 2, with a final score of 17 to 15. The championship game was played at St. Mary’s gym in Walnut Creek.
Team from LtoR: #9 Eden Swint, #5 Morgan Blair, #21 Samantha Cox, #7 Amira Cebalo, #20 Emily Fosker and #24 Sierra Walton. Coaches from LtoR: Ed Cox, Brad Swint and Parris Walton. Submitted by Parris Walton.
The College Park 6th Man have filled the bleachers with the shade of purple this season to cheer on their beloved basketball team. Once again the Falcons are DVAL champions. Last year the Falcon fans were treated to a whirlwind of NCS playoffs that had them traveling to Sacramentio’s Sleep Train Pavillion for the CIF Division II state championships.
March 2014
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Page 21
HOME TEAM
Local Teams Look for Success on the Diamond By Chuck Nan Four core members of the Alhambra supplanted teammate Kylie Perez, twoFalcon Boys and Lady Bulldogs time defending MVP of the circuit, from varsity softball team signed Letters of Stacked with Talent her freshman and sophomore seasons. Intent with various colleges to continue Spring is on the horizon and that Perez had an outstanding year herself their academic and athletic careers. Erin means softball and baseball are about to Enke (Central Methodist, Missouri), Hai- with a .618 average, 12 home runs and 51 hit the field in full swing. Two local prep RBIs. She also boasted 18 stolen bases. ley Sparacino (St. Mary’s), Nicole Curry squads possess very talented nuclei that Enke was selected as the 2013 (Cal-State Bakersfield) and Kylee Perez helped them enjoy success last season. DFAL Most Valuable Pitcher with her (UCLA) have seemingly played together Now, they look to carry that momentum 20-2 record and 1.03 ERA. She also had forever and form a strong foundation for into 2014. The College Park baseball and nine shutouts and 124 strikeouts (in 95 Alhambra softball teams are hands-down the Lady Bulldogs. innings). At the plate, Enke batted .452 Curry was the 2013 DFAL Most favorites to win their leagues, and they with six home runs and 24 RBIs. SparaValuable Player with her .474 batting are expected to advance far in the North cino had a fine campaign as well with a average, 12 home runs and 44 RBIs. She Coast Section (NCS) playoffs. .407 average, 25 RBIs and 19 steals. Cara DiMercurio, Madeline Cervantes, Kaitlyn Emigh, Sinead Wiley, Court The Alhambra Bulldogs girls’ soccer team won their home playoff game against ney Kelly, K.K. Boyd and Shelby Clemons Concord on February 19 by a score of 1-0 but lost the February 22 away playoff game all return to provide support to this very against the #1 seed Miramonte by a score of 4-1. Under the direction of Coach John experienced club with high expectations. Badger, the Division II Lady Bulldogs ended their season with a record of 4-4-4 in league The Lady Dogs start the season and 9-5-4 overall. Photos by Paul Saroni. March 8 at always-tough Concord. Then they play the top teams from the Diablo Valley in the Queen of the Mountain tournament. In early April, Alhambra will play at the Michelle Carew Classic in Orange County with 32 of the best high school teams in California, Arizona and New Mexico. The tournament is in Anaheim Hills and hosted by Canyon HS. Paul Buccellato begins his fifth season as head coach of the program. In 2013, the Bulldogs were 23-3-1 overall, including a perfect 12-0 DFAL mark. Alhambra lost in the NCS Division II semi-finals to Clayton Valley Charter, 10-5. For College Park, seven juniors who have provided verbal commitments to play at the Division I level for Pac-12 Conference schools lead the Falcon’s baseball team. Nick Oar, Trevor Larnach, Joe DeMers, Jeffrey Mitchell, Chris Brown, Noah Burnham and Willie Ma-
Alhambra Girls Soccer
civer all made decisions this past summer on where they would like to continue their careers beyond the prep level. Oar has selected Stanford, Larnach is headed to Oregon State, DeMers and Maciver have chosen the University of Washington, Mitchell selected UC Berkeley, Brown is headed to UC Davis and finally, Burnham is headed to UC Santa Barbara. Last season, the Falcons sported a 20-6-1 record (.759), including an impressive 10-2 mark in league play. CP advanced to the NCS Division II semifinals, only to drop a heartbreaking 12-11 decision to Casa Grande in 13 innings. This season, they are out to prove they have one of the best teams in the Diablo Valley. Coach Andy Tarpley, starting his third season at the helm, and team are the prohibitive favorite to win the DVAL this season. However, Clayton Valley Charter could provide some valid opposition for the league title. CP opens the season with three challenging road games. On March 8 they travel to Heritage. The following week, they continue with two more away, at Monte Vista and at Acalanes, before coming home to face Mt. Diablo in the league opener. The Falcons will also face traditional rival Alhambra, Vacaville, Deer Valley and compete in the rugged Elite 8 Tournament at St. Francis. Alhambra baseball, off a 16-10 season a year ago and an NCS appearance, opened its season in late-February. After three-straight road games, they return home March 8 to face St. Patrick-St. Vincent. The Lady Falcons softball team looks to improve from their 2013 season. The team schedule was not available at press time.
Opening Day Parades Martinez Youth Baseball and Softball parade will take place on March 8 at 10am, leaving from City Hall Plaza. The parade will make its way to Alhambra Ave., then on to Main Street. The parade is followed by a picnic at the Marina’s picnic area.
Alhambra’s #8 Katie Christman focuses on defense against Miramonte at the February 5 home game.
Alhambra’s #29 Lindsey Alford shields the ball.
Pleasant Hill Baseball Association’s opening day parade will begin at 8am on March 8 at the intersection of Boyd Road and Patterson Boulevard and end at Pleasant Hill Middle School. There will be food and games for the kids. Come see the new Pleasant Oaks Fields!
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Page 22
March 2014
HIGH SCHOOL HAPPENINGS
College Park Photo Exhibit
Submitted by Carol Teltschick, S3 Coordinator, College Park High School “Maybe you can’t do anything to change “going deep” and using photography as a Students at College Park High The AjA Project, based in San Diego, the Quad, so you try to change yourself,” tool to identify issues as well as enviSchool are excited to announce their specializes in youth-based participashe said. “You need to build self-confision solutions. We hope you will come upcoming photographic exhibit: Life As tory photography programs. Under dence, but that’s hard when you’re a teen.” share students’ discoveries about what’s We Know It, in which students examine the S3 program, AjA has been working Megan added, “There is a superficial unworking at College Park and what we can their relationships with school at both in College Park classrooms, coaching derstanding by adults that kids are kids improve. the personal and universal levels. students and teachers on techniques for and will always say things like ‘oh I hate Senior Matthew McKinley says, school, it’s boring.’ Sometimes that’s true, “This project taught me to go deeper but there can be things underneath, like with my photography and my creativCoach Edgar Sagastume took over the College Park boys soccer program in 2003 with bullying and anxiety.” Preparing for this ity.” Yearbook in junior year gave him a old uniforms, dated equipment and a program that was unrecognized and lacked exhibit helped Kara learn to think more sense of belonging and confidence and respect. With the help of his assistant coaches, Edgar brought the soccer program to deeply about her topics and realize how is his favorite place to be on campus. He a competitive and respected level, going to NCS seven times in the past eight years, much she wants adults to understand her hated school as a freshman, but looking taking 2nd place the last three years and earning one league title. However, Sagastume takes the most pride in the men he has created off the field, having taught life feelings. Megan improved her composiback, he is amazed at how much he has lessons through the sport he loves, including patience, sportsmanship, dedication, hard tion and crystallized her plans to become changed and wishes photography and work and competiveness. Ken Cheda, team manager and Edgar’s right hand man cooking classes had been available to him a professional photographer. for the past eight years, has worked behind the scenes to make sure the program was Meet students, teachers and supportsooner. Matthew’s least favorite place on well- equipped, schedules organized, and apparel ordered. Ken is known as the team ers at the Life As We Know It opening on campus is the Quad, which he describes cheerleader and motivator. Together, with their dedication and love for the kids and the March 3, 6 - 8. The exhibit runs March 3 as “okay but feels superficial.” game, Ken and Edgar have made the College Park soccer program what it is today. - 14; M, T, W 8:30 - 5pm; Th 8:30 - 6pm; Seniors Kara Garasky and Megan F 8:30 - 1pm; Pleasant Hill City Hall, 100 Berberich aren’t fans of the Quad either because they feel judged and uncomfort- Gregory Lane. The California Safe and Supportive able there. They love their photography Schools (S3) grant, a statewide initiative room because “it’s more accepting,” and they deeply enjoy the work they do there. to improve academic achievement by understanding and improving school cliKara said photographs are a good way mate, made Life As We Know It possible. for students to show their true feelings.
Leaving a Legacy
AHS Blood Drive
Alhambra High School student leadership is hosting a community blood drive on Tuesday, March 25 from 2-6pm in the AHS Gym. There is an on-line link to sign up: https://www.bloodheroes.com/index.cfm?group=op&step=2&opid=582203.
Artistic Handiwork Alhambra High School art teacher Kristen Holmberg’s Advanced Art students explored using hands as inspiration for their works. They were given black paper, white pencils (optional additional colored pencils) and told to create a piece involving hands and/ or movement using contrast and a value scale.
Theresa Grube
Lauren Carpoff
L to R: Edgar Sagastume’s sons, Coach Edgar, Coach Ken Cheda, his children and Coach Matt Kendall.
Record Setting Season
The College Park women’s soccer team finished league play with a 12 -0 record setting a DVAL record as the first women’s soccer team to go undefeated in DVAL.
March 2014
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Page 23
HIGH SCHOOL HAPPENINGS
CP’s Rock(well) Solid Choir Program
By Jaki Jones ative space for students. When they come of 8th graders at the local middle schools There is harmony in the College in here, they know they can leave all their to highlight the program, hoping to draw Park choir due to the efforts of conducmany of them into the College Park music troubles behind. I believe that whatever tor Bruce Rockwell. He took over the problem a teenager has, choir can help. department as freshman. One of the neglected program four years ago with To be part of a group where there is a lot selections included “Some Nights” by the only two choirs and sixty students, half of buy-in, everyone believes in what we’re group Fun. In April, he will travel with of which were disinterested and resentdoing and is involved in this life affirming his students to Anaheim for a Disneyland ful for being assigned to the class. At the experience is a rare gift for high school performance tour. beginning of 2013, Rockwell had eightystudents.” At College Park, the ratio of girls to eight students voluntarily enroll and he The choral program is supported by boys in choir is almost 3:1. Rockwell says, expects over one hundred students next two fundraisers: a dessert show in the fall “It’s a cultural perception that’s local, and school year. There are several factors that and the Bella Notte Italian Dinner show we can change that. There are schools have helped drive the increase in popuon March 14, when the multi-purpose where the boys’ choir is the cool thing larity. Television shows like Glee and The room at College Park is transformed into to do, but getting the freshman guys in Voice, along with the movie Pitch Perfect, an Italian restaurant with food and baked is always a challenge, and we are workhave helped renew interest in singing, goods made by parents and donated by loing on that.” His students do most of the and Rockwell is taking advantage of cal restaurants. The highlight is the variety choir recruiting through word of mouth, this surge. He gives his students exciting performance opportunities and welcomes recommending the program to those they believe would be good candidates. collaboration and creativity. “I let them choose some of their own music, particu- The high school currently offers larly when performing for the school. We a Mixed Concert Choir and an all-girl The 32nd District PTA Reflections Treble Choir. Next year a Mixed Chorus do perform a lot of popular music, but Showcase was held on Saturday, Februwill be added; his long-term goal is to get also a lot of classical, jazz, and Broadway ary 1 at Alhambra High School. This 10% of the student body into the choir show tunes that I select as well,” he said. year’s showcase displayed the projects of program. “I want to make it a nice creHis students recently performed in front three College Park students, all sophomores, who worked with the theme, “Believe, Dream, Inspire.” The students are: Anthony Cannon who submitted a photograph; Amelia Carlson who submitted a photograph and Finn Erickson who submitted a music composition piece. Amelia’s submission was chosen in the high school photography category to represent the 32nd District PTA at the California State PTA Convention to be held in May in Los Angeles. The Reflections Program is an arts recognition and achievement program for students and is sponsored by the National PTA. The program offers students the opportunity to create works of art Bruce Rockwell, College Park’s Director of Vocal Music, gets his students ready for caroling around the campus, an annual tradition at the high school. outside of school projects for fun and experience. Students are encouraged to submit original works of art in the following categories: dance choreography; “Little Shop of Horrors” will be performed at College Park on April 3, 4, 11 film production; literature; musical comand 12. Curtain is at 7pm and April 8 & 9 at 4pm. “We have added the April position; photography and visual arts. 8 date to enlarge our audience from the senior residences and centers in PTSA Reflections Program Chair the area who can come by busload,” said Joan Lopate. Tickets are $5 for students and staff, $12 for general admission. Corrin Canale said, “Each year at the Reflections Showcase I am more imAlhambra High School will perform “Cabaret” from April 23-26, with a 7pm curtain. Tickets will be available at Alhambrahs.revtrak.net, or by calling: pressed with the quality of work sub925-335-5818. mitted by the students of MDUSD and
of music performed, including opera, madrigals, Frank Sinatra, and the Rat Pack. Tickets can be purchased online at: www.collegeparkchoirs.com. In addition, May 30 is the “British Invasion Rock Concert,” where several decades of British rock and roll is performed at the high school. And if being a choir director wasn’t enough, Rockwell, a former professional guitarist, will be starting up a beginning guitar program next year. “I think it brings in a whole different set of students into the music building and to all the benefits of music education.” He is currently writing grants for a class set of guitars. Clearly, there is a developing crescendo in music at College Park.
CP Reflections Results throughout Contra Costa County. This year the projects represented a personal level that I hadn’t seen in the past. Each photograph, song, movie, and piece of literature told a story about its creator and how a family member or friend has “inspired” them. I encourage more students, especially at the high school level, to participate in the Reflections program. It’s such a positive way for kids to express themselves.” Next year’s theme is “The world would be a better place if…” For additional information about the program visit: www.capta.org or email Corrin Canale at: atccanale@comcast.net.
Spring Performances
Pictured are sophomores Amelia Carlson and Finn Erickson, participants in the 32nd District PTA Reflections Showcase.
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Page 24
March 2014
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HATS OFF TO THE GRADS! Show them how proud you are! Page 12
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June 2012
Grad Announcements
Andrew Crosno, AHS It’s been a privi-
James Spellman-Hess, College
Jimmy Torres, College Park Mijo, you
lege to watch you grow into the man
Park Congratulations James! We are
have made us very proud, and we
you are today. We couldn’t be more
looking forward to watching you play
thank you for being who you are. We
proud of your hard work, dedica-
soccer for SFSU next year. Go Gators!
want to wish you luck at Chico State,
tion, and decision to join the USMC.
We are so proud of you and love you
and wish you nothing but the best
OORAH! Love, Mom, Dad, Kevin
very much! ~Your Family
Lucas Velzy, College Park Lucas is attending Los Medanos to pursue his goal of becoming a firefighter following in his late Grandpa’s footsteps. He is enrolled in the Emergency Medi-
always and forever. You have been
cal Technician and Fire Technology
such a wonderful son, and brother. We
Courses. Congratulations Luke! Love,
love you very much and will miss you!!!
Mom & Dad.
Love, Dad and Mom
A dream daughter, Demi Tzanis, Col-
Janette Danielson, College Park
lege Park Dearest Demi, Words cannot
You’ve worked incredibly hard for 4
express the pride we feel in having
years, endeared yourself to multitudes
been blessed with you as a daughter.
of friends and made your whole family
Kameron DuQuette, AHS Kameron
We are so proud of you! You are an
Wishing that all your dreams come
very proud of your accomplishments.
Samantha St.Germain, College Park graduates with honors while lettering
extraordinary young woman filled
true in the adventure of your life! Love
We know you’ll have great success at
in football and lacrosse. This fall, he will
with grace, determination and kind-
Mama & Tony
LMU. Love, Mom, Dad and Christina
attend the University of Oregon be-
ness. We are excited to watch your
cause he had a vision; worked hard,
incredible journey unfold at UCLA and
had faith and believed in himself. “It is
beyond! We love you, Mom and Dad
A better choice awaits you at Astound. ORDER TODAY.
not important WHAT you believe, only THAT you believe.”
Jessica Gardner, College Park Jessica will pursue her dream of a career
Dominic Bilotti, College Park we are
in medicine at the University of Ari-
so very proud of your accomplish-
Tyler Shaw, Bentley School
zona, majoring in neuroscience. She
ments! Beyond 2012 awaits you. “If you
Congratulations Tyler! We wish you
volunteers at John Muir Hospital and
can imagine it, you can achieve it. If
attended a ten-day series of medical
you can dream it, you can become it.”
seminars in Boston last summer for
We love you- Mom, Dad and Patrick
Sam Randall, Alhambra High Con-
success as you embark on your amaz-
gratulations! So proud of you and all
ing journey at Hilbert College in NY, as
you’ve accomplished these past 4
you study Criminology and continue
aspiring physicians, an experience she
years. Good luck at Cal Poly. The best
your passion of playing baseball. We
wrote about in the Focus last October.
is yet to come. With much love, Mom,
are so proud of you! Love, Mom and
Good luck, Jessica!
Dad, Ellen & Jake.
Dad
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March 2014
Page 25
THE GARDEN
Taste Anticipation Cherished moments at our school garden education sessions celebrate instances of taste anticipation as fluffy, roiling clouds bind us to early spring. The brilliant green grass on the hills pulls up thoughts of steamed asparagus with blood orange aioli. As your skin begins to register something softer than just cold air, you realize that spring is eminent and heralds the arrival of new and wonderfully provocative seasonal produce. Regardless of the dry and short winter, the anxious pull of the sumptuous transports us to the steamy side of the kitchen to concoct yummy, light-filled dishes. Hearts beat a little quicker, perched on the edge of
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with cucumbers and garlic at will. Taste anticipation is a slow burn that lasts all spring into summer when, finally, first cherries and stone fruits come along to satiate it. Not quite there yet, but it sure is nice to think about and look forward to after a long, dry winter. Trails are begging you to get on them. Will you accept their plea? It is so nice and green, and salamanders are so plentiful; you must watch underfoot so as not to harm these amazing little creatures that return to the lagoons at Briones, year after year. Get up there! Happy spring! Lesley Stiles is a graduate of the California Culinary Academy, sustainable caterer and school garden educator. Contact Lesley at lesleystiles@ comcast.net, www.lesleystiles.blogspot. com and visit her new website: www. lesleystilesfoods.com.
Spring Vegetable Soup Ingredients:
3 stalks of green garlic, sliced thin 1 head of cauliflower, small flowerets ½ pound of broccoli, small flowerets 2 carrots, sliced 2 ribs of celery, sliced ½ pound of asparagus, sliced with woody ends removed
2 tablespoons olive oil ½ cup quinoa 4 cups vegetable stock 2 tablespoons fresh, chopped cilantro Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
Heat olive oil in large soup pot. Add the green garlic, carrots and celery. Let sweat on medium heat for 3 minutes. Add cauliflower and sauté for 3 more minutes. Add stock and bring to a boil. Add quinoa and simmer for 10 minutes. Add broccoli and asparagus, and simmer for a few more minutes until they are bright green. Add fresh cilantro and season with salt and pepper. Makes 8 Cups
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Page 26
March 2014
In the Mix We just celebrated the 50th anniversary of The Beatles’ first appearance on the Ed Sullivan Show -- a moment in time that changed the lives of so many people and inspired future musicians such as myself. This was not just a moment that changed The Beatles’ lives, but one that changed the music industry forever. It became the blue print for entertainers for decades to come. Seventy-three million people watched that night. Even if you are not a fan, you cannot argue the impact and sheer talent of these lads from Liverpool. They revolutionized the marketing of a band: everything from the haircuts, movies, songwriting and the recording process. I believe they were the most prolific band in musical history. It was fifty-one years ago March 22, 1963, that The Beatles’ very first album, Please Please Me, debuted in the U.K. What makes this album special is that they recorded the majority of the record in just thirteen hours! And it did not stop there. In seven years, that’s right, just seven years, they released eleven more albums that included some of the most influential music of the century. Many consider Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band the greatest rock record of all time. So in the spirit of “Beatlemania” 2014, I tried making a list of my favorite top ten Beatles’ songs. This is an ex-
Dallimonti’s
By Paul Cotruvo, Cover2Cover and The Big Jangle tremely difficult task because I consider the best McCartney rocker vocals ever! No matter what, the chord led to a great all Beatles’ songs classics (although a 10. “I am the Walrus” from Magical pop song that captured 1964. handful of tunes may be considered Mystery Tour. Most likely the most 7. “Yesterday” from U.S. album Yesterthrow away tracks). Nonetheless, here I controversial pick for my top ten, but the day and Tomorrow or U.K. album Help! go: structure of this song, the production, Probably the most covered song in 1. “A Day in the Life” from Sgt. Pepand the lyrics stir up a debate of the inmusical history. Here’s a little trivia: The per’s Lonely Hearts Club Band. A great working title of the song was “Scrambled terpretation of the meaning to this day. collaboration from Lennon/McCartney. All I can say is Goo Goo g’joob! Eggs” (with the working opening verse, One of the most influential songs of all Well, there you go, let the contro“Scrambled eggs/Oh, my baby how I time. versy begin! Love or hate this list, you love your legs”). 2. “I Saw her Standing there” from cannot deny the power of this music and 8. “Here Comes the Sun” from Abbey Please Please Me. This is the song that Road. Written at a time when the Beatles its relevancy in 2014. This music will live started it all. An early Beatles’ rocker. So forever! Send me your lists! were in turmoil, this is another gem by glad they left the “1, 2, 3, 4” in the intro. George Harrison, who went over to Eric Quote of the month: Classic! Clapton’s house, sat down and wrote this “And in the end, the love you take is equal 3. “The Long and Winding Road” from to the love you make.” song. Let it Be. No doubt this was written by 9 .“I’m Down” from Past Masters. One of Lennon–McCartney from “The End” Paul McCartney as a look back at the Beatles’ career as tensions mounted and the end was near. 4. “Dear Prudence” from The Beatles. John Lennon at his finest vocally and lyrically. Mia Farrow’s sister, Prudence, Congratulations to Paul Cotruvo, inspired the song. Also, John Lennon recipient of Pleasant Hill’s 2013 has stated it is one of his favorite Beatles’ Citizen of the Year and songs. PH Rec & Park’s Community Service Award! 5. “While my Guitar Gently weeps” from The Beatles. George Harrison’s inspired song of the Eastern concept that whatever happens is meant to be and there’s March 6: Chris Cain Band, Armando’s, 707 Marina Vista, Martinez, 8pm no such thing as coincidence; every little March 8: Angelique Kellogg & me!, Roxx on Main, 627 Main St., Martinez, 7pm item that’s goes down has a purpose. It March 14, Matt Tidmarsh & Dan DeShara, Roxx on Main, 627 Main St., Martinez, 7pm featured Eric Clapton’s magnificent lead March 17: Ken Cooper & Dave Martin “Clambake,” Dallimonti’s, 1932 Oak Park guitar solo. A guitar player’s dream! Blvd., Pleasant Hill, 6pm 6. “A Hard Day’s Night” from A Hard March 20: Sin Silver, Rocco’s Pizzeria, 2909 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek, 8pm Day’s Night. It features “The Chord” March 28: Jinx Jones & Jessica Rose, Armando’s, 707 Marina Vista, Martinez, 8pm debate that still goes on today. What March 29: The Big Jangle, Dallimonti’s, 1932 Oak Park Blvd., Pleasant Hill, 9pm exactly are the notes and instruments for March 30: Fonky with an O, Armando’s, 707 Marina Vista, Martinez, 4pm the opening chord of the song anyway?
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March 2014
Relay for Life Comes to Pleasant Hill
Cancer survivors (those who have or have had cancer) are invited to a FREE tea and cookies gathering on Monday, March 17, from 10am to noon, hosted by Diablo Valley Oncology, 400 Taylor Blvd., Pleasant Hill. The American Cancer Society (ACS) and its Relay For Life of Pleasant Hill will sponsor the event, where cancer survivors and their caregivers may learn more about the services and programs that ACS provides. Survivors may also sign up for this year’s relay, to be held in June. There is no registration fee for survivors, and
they do not need to raise funds to participate in the survivor ceremonies at the relay. The June 7-8 Relay For Life will be held at the Pleasant Hill Middle School. It is not a race or run. Teams form beforehand and raise money. At the relay, teams educate visitors on cancer awareness and keep at least one member on the track for 24 hours to signify that cancer never sleeps, and neither does the fight against cancer. For more information, go to www. RelayForLife.org/PleasantHillCA. For questions, e-mail relayforlifeph@yahoo. com or call 925-944-4898.
Page 27
Young Children’s Forum The public is invited to the 10th annual Young Children’s Issues Forum on Saturday, March 29, from 8:30am – 2:00pm, at the new Pleasant Hill Community Center. This year’s theme is Speak Out for Children: Educate and Advocate. This free community event is sponsored and organized by the Contra Costa Local Planning Council for Child Care and Development (LPC) and is coordinated by the Contra Costa County Office of Education (CCCOE). This award-winning special program is a favorite forum for legislators, local elected officials, public agency representatives, business leaders and the community to address current children’s issues through presentations and question-and-answer sessions. Invited legislators include: Congressman George Miller, Senator Mark DeSaulnier, Senator Loni Hancock, Senator Darrell Steinberg, Assemblywoman Susan Bonilla, Assemblywoman Joan Buchanan, Assemblywoman Nancy Skinner, and Assemblymember Jim Frazier. Ted Lempert, executive director of Children Now, will be the guest modera-
tor and will lead state legislators and local officials in discussion about the national movement towards Universal Quality Early Care and Education, current state legislation, and the potential impact of California’s early care and education programs. Dr. Joseph A. Ovick, Contra Costa County superintendent of schools, will open the event with an overview of the importance of early childhood education. In celebration of the 10th year anniversary of the annual Young Children’s Issues Forum, Dr. Michael Pritchard will deliver a special keynote presentation. Recently, the California School Public Relations Association (CalSPRA) awarded the Young Children’s Issues Forum with their highest accolade in their annual Excellence in Communications Awards by earning the California Gold Award. For more information about the Young Children’s Issues Forum, please contact Ruth Fernández at (925) 942-3413. This is a free event, but attendance registration is required. To register and for more details please visit: www.plan4kids.org.
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END-OF-LIFE PUZZLES: EXPLORING THE QUESTIONS
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Hillcrest Congregational Church invites you to join us as we explore Life’s Puzzles. The series will be held Wednesdays at 7pm. Come to one or all of the series. March 12 – Compassionate Choices - Can We Decide When and How to Die? March 19 – What Would "A Good Ending” Look Like for Me? March 26 – A Helpful and Complicated Tool – Advanced Directives April 2 – How Long, O Lord?
Hillcrest Congregational Church • 404 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill Visit our website at hillcrestucc.org. Like us on Facebook
Sunday Worship
— 9:00 & 11:00 a.m.
LAFAYETTE-ORINDA PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 49 Knox Drive, Lafayette CA 94523
925-283-8722
Page 28
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March 2014
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March 2014
To Read or Not to Read By Zane Dundon, Senior, De La Salle HS
The Road by Cormac McCarthy is a bleak examination of human resilience and the will to survive, and it’s one of the best books I’ve ever read. That said, The Road is not for the faint of heart. McCarthy forces you to examine the best and worst of humanity in the most inhumane circumstances and, as a result, it can be very depressing at times. The story revolves around a man and his son, both unnamed, who travel through a barren, post-apocalyptic America with only each other for company. Their unending, sometimes desperate, search for food, shelter, and other basic necessities is sometimes inspiring and always tragic. They encounter very few people beside themselves, but the times they do are some of the most suspenseful and thought-provoking scenes in the book. The bleak landscape and hardships the characters face make the novel’s tone exceptionally dark, but the relationship between the man and his son remains a source of hope throughout the novel. Their commitment to each other and to survival in dire circumstances is one of the central themes of the novel, and it provides a light in an otherwise dark book.
McCarthy’s writing style is very unique, and it enhances the atmosphere of isolation and despair in the novel. For the majority of the book, his writing is very direct and minimalist. Much of the description is not even in complete sentences, but conveyed in images stated in harsh, direct language. However, at various points in the book, McCarthy writes in very eloquent prose that stands in sharp contrast to the writing in the majority of the book, emphasizing the importance of these passages. In addition, McCarthy often ignores traditional punctuation, such as quotation marks for dialogue, and sometimes he shifts between first and third person narration. McCarthy’s unique writing style, as well as his striking ability to convey the emotions of the man and his son, makes this novel one-of-a-kind. The plot, although very engaging, is second to the characters and feelings in the book, and the fact that McCarthy never explains exactly how the earth was reduced to an ash-filled wasteland emphasizes this fact. The Road, although relentlessly depressing at times, is ultimately hopeful about human nature and the resilience of the human spirit. It is an exceptional book.
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Read My Mind © Book Reviews by Michael G. Harris, OD
Spring Reading Many of you do “spring cleaning.” If you prefer ”spring reading,” here are some new books to consider. As a big Nelson DeMille fan, I was really excited when his latest book, The Quest, was published late last year. Unlike other popular authors, DeMille writes very few books and often goes years before his fans can relish another one of his gems. Imagine my dismay when I learned that this book was a retread of a shorter book he wrote some 40 years ago. It’s the age-old tale of the search for the Holy Grail, the cup Jesus drank from at the Last Supper. This time, the hunt takes us to the Ethiopian jungle in the 1970s. We follow three journalists in their search for this ancient relic after learning its hidden location from a dying priest. While the story is entertaining, it’s obvious that DeMille wrote this before he gained skill as a truly spellbinding author. If you want to read DeMille at his best, I recommend Plum Island, The Charm School, and The Panther. Speaking of Jesus, Reza Aslan’s Zealot: The Life and Times of Jesus of Nazareth is one of the most controversial books I’ve reviewed. Aslan is an Iranian-American professor and religion scholar. His premise is quite simple: Jesus was a zealot, that is a rebel, rather than the Messiah. Jesus simply wanted to free his fellow Jews from Roman rule. The fact that Aslan is Iranian and was a Muslim before converting to Christianity (he has since converted back) is causing quite a stir in the religious
community. Regardless of your personal views, you will find this book stimulating dinner conversation. Thomas Healy’s book, The Great Dissent, tells the story of how Supreme Court Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes “changed the history of free speech in America.” His dissent in the famous 1919 Abrams case moved the Court in the direction of allowing freedom of speech unless the speech presented a “clear and present danger.” This fascinating history of our First Amendment and how one man moved our country into the era of true free speech will open your eyes to how great a Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes really was. Norman Rockwell is an American icon known best for his Saturday Evening Post illustrations. His life, however, was far from idyllic, as shown in Deborah Solomon’s biography, American Mirror: The Life and Art of Norman Rockwell. Rockwell was subject to constant fits of depression and went so far as to have a live-in psychologist in his home. He married several women who became alcoholics. In spite of all of this, Rockwell is perhaps America’s best-known artist. Solomon’s biography is full of many of his famous illustrations and paints a picture of a man who turned to his art to escape from his life. It is a worthwhile read for anyone interested in Americana. Bill Bryson is the prolific writer of such diverse books as A Walk in the Woods, A Short History of Nearly Everything, and At Home. His latest book, One Summer, chronicles the amazing string of events that took place during the summer of 1927. These include Lindberg’s flight across the Atlantic; Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig’s assault on baseball’s home run record; the introduction of the first major talking picture, The Jazz Singer; the start of Mount Rushmore; the Sacco and Vanzetti’s murder trial; and Philo Farnsworth’s invention of the first working television. Even if you think you know about these events, Bryson’s in-depth analysis will give you new insight into all the remarkable events that took place that “one summer.”
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March 2014
News From Pleasant Hill Recreation and Park New Pleasant Hill Community Center Now Open! Come tour the new facility and sign up for classes. Now accepting rental reservations for weddings, corporate meetings, reunions and events. Contact Ryan Herriman at rherriman@pleasanthillrec.com or (925) 771-7639 for RSVP. New Community Center Location: 320 Civic Drive in Pleasant Hill. Ready to Play Ball at Pleasant Oak Park! Enjoy this completely renovated PHR&PD park and sports center located at 2 Santa Barbara Road (across from PH Middle School). New picnic areas available for outdoor party rentals. Pleasant Hill Senior Center Wins 2013 CPRS Award for Outstanding New Facility Congratulations to PHR&PD for statewide recognition of this beautiful venue for seniors and the greater Pleasant Hill community. Pleasant Hill Preschool 2014-2015 Registration Opens Saturday, March 8, 9-11am at Pleasant Hill Community Center, 320 Civic Drive. Learn more at pleasanthillpreschool.com. Breakfast with Bunny (1–10 yrs with parent) Saturday, April 12, 8:30 -9:30am at Pleasant Hill Senior Center. Pre-register by April 4. Enjoy breakfast and crafts with Bunny. Bring camera. Admission: $8.50/$7.50 (Dist. Res.). Parents must register as well. “Egg”-Citing Egg Hunt! Saturday, April 19. Start times vary by age group! Location: Pleasant Hill Park, 147 Gregory Lane, PH Giant egg hunt by age group and free entertainment by Dana Smith (juggler) and music by Strawberry Fields. Pre-registration required.
Wine Women & Shoes Benefit Event May 18, 2-5pm at Pleasant Hill Community Center. Shop the latest in shoes, accessories and more. Sip wine, savor bites & kick up your heels for a fashion show. Buy Tickets here: http://cccwinewomenandshoes.com. Partnership for Success -Summer Job Fair (FREE) March 5, 10am-1pm. DVC Cafeteria, 321 Golf Club Road, Pleasant Hill PLAN EARLY! PHR&PD Youth Summer Camp Information available March 10! Fairytale Princess Party March 19, 3:30-4:30pm (Pre-register by 3/12), Winslow Center Assembly Room, 2590 Pleasant Hill Rd. Be a princess for a day with Queen Mom or King Dad! Keep Your Kids Moving! Register now for these fun youth fitness activities at pleasanthillrec.com. Youth Spring Break Tennis Camp April 21-25, Monday-Friday, 9am at College Park Tennis Courts. NFL Sponsored Youth Flag Football Spring Program Games: May 3 – June 14 (Saturdays only). Registration closes Friday, April 18. Fee: $145/$130 (Dist. Res). NFL sports shirt, football and flag belt included. 2014 Dolfins Swim Team (open to swimmers 18 & under) Special in-person registration day, March 22, 10am-12pm, District Office, 147 Gregory Lane.
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Martinez Senior Activities 818 Green St. (925) 370-8770
Mar. 9 - Pancake Breakfast â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 8am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 11am. This delicious breakfast includes pancakes or toast, sausage, eggs, orange juice and coffee. Everyone is welcome. Cost is $3.50 for adults/$2 for children 10 and under. Handmade crafts, perfect for gifts, will be on sale during the breakfast. Mar. 7 & 14 - AARP Smart Driver Course â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 10am - 2:30pm (with a 30 minute lunch break). Program helps seniors recognize their limitations and learn how to reduce accidents and regain driving privileges. Students will receive a Certificate of Completion, which may offer insurance discounts. Checks payable to AARP at the time of registration; cash cannot be accepted. Cost: $15 for AARP members, $20 for Nonmembers. AARP members, please bring your membership card to the first class. Mar. 21 - The Vagabond Players Present: Social Security by Andrew Bergman 1pm. Social Security is a 1986 hit Broadway comedy dealing with the timely issue of married couples caring for an aging parent. A one-hour performance followed by a light buffet. Cost: $10 members/$12 non- members. Mar. 21 - Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Be Informed Series: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Veteran & Surviving Spouse Long Term Care Benefits- Serving Those Who Served Our Countryâ&#x20AC;? at 10am. Presented by Mariel Thompson, Case Manager, for Littorno Law Group. Veteran Benefits are said to be an underutilized resource available to millions of veterans and their families. There will be a question and answer period. Call the office (925 370-8770) to put your name on a list.
Motivational
Mar. 4 - Senior Mardi Gras Party 3pm. Tickets: $10 Presale / $15 at the door. Celebrate with some wonderful wine selections (non-alcoholic available) and appetizers.  Mar. 13 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; FREE Care Management Information Series: â&#x20AC;&#x153;When Do You need Fiduciary services?â&#x20AC;? 2-3:30pm. RSVP: (925) 798-8788. Apr. 4 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; FREE Laugh, Love & Learn 2014 Information Fair 8:30am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 1pm. Info at: (925) 798-8788. Apr. 9 - Special Travel Presentation: Explore Your World With Us! 6-7pm. Learn about exciting upcoming travel adventures offered by PHR&PD Travel Services. 6pm Florida, South Dakota, Australia/New Zealand; 7pm - South America, Portugal, India. Schedule subject to change. Call 798-8747 to RSVP and confirm times. Apr. 19 - Easter Pancake Breakfast & Spring Boutique 9am-11am. Tickets: Adults (11+) $5 / Children (5-10 yrs) $3 / 4 & under: FREE. Get Quilting! Sign up for Beginning Quilting, Beyond the Basics and Basics + to create a beautiful family heirloom and build friendships with other quilters! Visit phseniorcenter.com for more information & registration. Join a Weight & Strength Class Strengthen your muscles for a healthier you! Sign up at phseniorcenter.com. Senior Club Membership still available! $15 Call (925) 798-8788 for more info.
Inspirational
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March 2014
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Page 33
Soroptimists of Martinez Updated by Gay Gerlack, based on historic material from Martinez Historical Society newsletter article by Harriett Burt Rain was reported on the evening of November 14, 1942, when sixteen local businesses and professional women met at the new Masonic Temple on Mellus Street to officially charter the Soroptimist Club of Martinez. This club has served Martinez for seventy-two years. “Soroptimist” is a coined word that combines Latin words that mean “the best for women.” The common goal of Soroptimists is to help women and children throughout the world. Formed during World War II, the Martinez Soroptimists immediately offered funds and members’ time on Sundays to help supply and staff the Martinez U.S.O. Canteen on Ferry Street. They raised money to furnish a recreation room for service personnel at Camp Stoneman in Pittsburg and joined with other California clubs to provide an ambulance for Oak Knoll Naval Hospital. Local Soroptimists made their most outstanding contribution to the war effort when the effects of the war came closest to home after the Port Chicago explosion in July 1944. Soroptimist clubs from as far as Connecticut and as near as San Mateo-Burlingame sent checks for $25 to $50, which, when matched by the
Martinez Club, paid for a registered nurse to support Port Chicago children in a recreational camp set up that summer while their parents worked to restore order. At war’s end, the Soroptimist Club of Martinez joined with other service clubs and community groups to establish the municipal swimming pool. The Soroptimists donated $900 towards the $80,000 cost. During that same time they raised $200 for the new Camp Fire Building on Estudillo Street and gave a $100 scholarship for a graduating Alhambra senior. Through the years, the Martinez Soroptimists have participated in helping other local groups, such as the Martinez Historical Society’s Home Tour, Main Street Snow Park, Alhambra’s Homecoming Parade, Relay for Life, various Main Street Martinez events and, since its inception in the 1970’s, the club has sponsored the Martinez Chamber of Commerce’s Woman of the Year award. In recent years, the Martinez Soroptimists joined other clubs to host the Get Real Academy for high school senior girls. This day-long event consists of workshops on preparation for personal finance, job applications and interviews. This year’s Get Real Academy will be held on March 7. For additional information about the Soroptimist International of Martinez, visit www.soroptimistmartinez.org.
Prom Dress Drive
A new project, initiated by Martinez Soroptimist President Stacy Lompa, is the Prom Dress Drive. Prom dresses will be available to junior and senior girls at Alhambra High School. If you would like to donate slightly used or new dresses, please call Stacy at 925787-3745 to have them picked up, or you can deliver them to June Rogers, Local 302, IBEW Meeting Hall, 1875 Arnold Drive, Martinez.
We Look Forward To Seeing You There!
1625 Oak Park Blvd. Pleasant Hill, CA 94583 925-935-5222
R.S.V.P
From LtoR: Evonne Siguenza, June Rogers, Kendra McKeen, Ann Stanley, Stacy Lompa, Beverly Gomer, and Patricia Eileen Fisher.
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March 2014
Elder Abuse: Suspect It? Report It. By Pleasant Hill Commission on Aging It is a sad fact that older adults are sometimes physically and emotionally abused. Some seniors are not able to report abuse for themselves. They may be afraid the caregiver will try to get back at them. They may not know who to complain to about the abuse. But no senior should have to suffer. If you suspect abuse of an elderly family member, friend, or neighbor, speak up! How do you know if a senior could be a victim of abuse? Look for these situations and symptoms. Examples of physical abuse include: hitting, withholding food, tight restraints, unwanted sexual contact, and being locked in a room for punishment. Some symptoms of physical abuse are bruises, broken bones, sudden weight loss, burns, bedsores, or cuts. Examples of emotional abuse include: yelling at the elder, threats of harm or punishment, and attacking an elder’s dignity through humiliation. Some symptoms of emotional abuse are being afraid to talk openly, anger, being upset, and depression.
Here’s how you may give a confidential report of suspected elder abuse. • If there is immediate danger, call 911. • Call Contra Costa County Adult Protective Services toll-free at (877) 839-4347, a 24-hour hotline. • If abuse is occurring in a long-term care facility, call the Long Term Care Ombudsman at (925) 685-2070. What happens after a report is made? Trained professionals will look into the conditions of the elder’s care. If abuse is found, a plan will be developed to aid the senior and stop the abuse from happening again. Here are two online resources for information about elder abuse. Be informed. Be watchful. Speak up for vulnerable seniors. For more information contact the Contra Costa County Adult Protective Services at www.co.contra-costa. ca.us/index.aspx?NID=2754, or the California Advocates for Nursing Home Reform at www.canhr.org/abuse/index. html.
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March 2014
Page 35
How You Can be a Neighborhood Hero Did you see news coverage of the recent storms on the East coast? You may recall that people in Atlanta were stranded in cars for eight or more hours. Anyone stuck in a car had to wait and hope that someone, somewhere, might have the ability (and generosity) to offer assistance. Did you notice that people who came out to help weren’t firefighters, police, or other emergency service personnel? One woman used Facebook to organize people to help. Other people just went out on their own to do whatever they could. And a lot of people just sat in their cars for hours on end in the freezing cold. CERT was created to make sure that you and your neighbors won’t have to wait and hope that help will come; you will be the one trained to provide it. When trained by CERT, you will learn how to prepare for emergencies and assist yourself, your family and your neigh-
By Carolyn Morgenstern, Pleasant Hill CERT Medical Treatment Chair bors. Then you become part of a team sign up today! If you’re already trained function effectively when disaster strikes of CERT-trained neighbors who move in CERT, but don’t remember it well – instead of being paralyzed by fear. CERT systematically into the wider community come to our refresher courses or take the provides you with all three. to provide assistance until first responders If you’ve been thinking about CERT, training again! Sign up at www.pleasantake over. thillcertsignup.com or call Jim Bonato at stop putting it off and sign up today! If One small example of how CERT 938-5433. you’re just hearing about CERT now, training can help us all: A lot of people in Atlanta talked about not having food, water, or blankets in their cars. Maybe the city wasn’t well prepared, but neither were the people. CERT training teaches us to keep emergency kits at home, work and in By the Hagin’s Staff our cars. gins to slip. Eventually, the clutches burn How often should I service my CERT training is good to have for two out and the transmission stops working. transmission fluid and filter? Most new reasons. owner’s manuals say it isn’t necessary and The only way to repair the damage is with 1. You’ll know how to prepare so you can a transmission overhaul, which can easily some new synthetic transmission fluids stay calm and take steps to stay safe. cost $4000 or more on a late model vehiclaim to be “lifetime fluids” or have no 2. You can apply your training to help cle. recommended service interval, but that’s other people stay calm and safe. As for the service, it is important why transmission shops are making a Studies show that when we have to use only the manufacturer’s specified fortune replacing burned out automatic training, a plan, and a set of familiar skills, transmission fluid and filter. Using the transmissions. Changing the fluid and we can almost go on “auto-pilot” and wrong fluid or a filter that does not pickfilter every 30,000 miles will protect your up the fluid properly can cause shifting investment. issues or burn up the transmission. You The number one cause of transmisshould have the transmission fluid level sion failure is lack of maintenance, priattitudes toward inspected at every oil change, and the marily not changing the fluid and the filschool. Clubs transmission should be inspected for any ter. An automatic transmission creates a provide a safe and lot of internal heat, and even normal driv- signs of leaks or damage. If any are found, supportive environthey should be repaired immediately. The ing can push fluid temperatures well bement, fun activities, cost of having your transmission serviced yond safe limits. Once that happens, the supportive relationby a professional every 30,000 miles is life of the fluid begins to plummet. Heat ships with peers and minimal compared to replacing or overdestroys the fluid’s lubricating qualities adults, increased hauling the transmission when it fails. and friction characteristics, which interopportunities to learn and develop, and See you soon, feres with the operation of the transmisrecognition of achievement. Hagin’s Automotive, located at 3725 sion. If the temperature gets above 250 Boys & Girls Clubs of the Diablo Alhambra Avenue in Martinez, can be degrees F, rubber seals begin to harden, Valley has been an integral part of the reached at (925) 228-5115 or via their leading to leaks and pressure loss. At Martinez community and surrounding higher temperatures the transmission be- website at www.haginsauto.com. area for more than 50 years, providing services to thousands of young people through ongoing partnerships with families, volunteers, educators, businesses and community leaders. These clubs offer quality after-school and summer programs at little or no cost to families. Best Mechanic The club is open after school on M, Tu & Th; F: 2 - 6pm; and W: 1 - 6pm. Programs include Character & Leadership Development; Education & Career Development; Health & Life Skills; The Arts; and Sports Fitness & Recreation. To learn more, please call (925) 2283896 ext. 102, or visit www.bgcdv.org.
Golf Fore Kids Sake Boys & Girls Clubs of the Diablo Valley present their 10th Annual Golf Fore Kids Sake Tournament on Friday, April 25 at Roddy Ranch Golf Club, 1 Tour Way, in Antioch. Registration begins at 10:30 am. The tournament will be played as a 4-person scramble format and includes a $1000 hole-in-one prize, raffles, dinner, drinks and lots of fun! Individual golfers can play for $125 and includes green fees, cart rental, range balls and dinner, or you can purchase a foursome for $500. Sponsorships are also available, beginning at $100. The Boys & Girls Clubs golf tournament is one of four major fundraisers throughout the year that raises much needed funds to help sustain programs offered to our community’s youth. Research shows that Boys & Girls Clubs play a key role in reducing delinquency, increasing academic achievement, providing access to technology, developing career goals and improving
Transmission Service, What’s the Deal?
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March 2014
Prostate Gland Can Grow Over Time One of the most common urological conditions is an enlarged prostate gland. Prostate enlargement happens to almost all men as they get older. As the gland grows, it can press on the urethra and cause urination problems such as a weak stream, difficulty urinating, or the sensation of a frequent need to urinate. An enlarged prostate is often called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It is not cancer, and it does not raise your risk for prostate cancer. Various treatments include medical and surgical therapies. Lifestyle changes for mild BPH symptoms can provide some relief. Self care techniques include: • Urinate when you first get the urge. Visit the bathroom when you have the chance, even if you don’t feel a need to urinate. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, especially after dinner.a • Don’t drink a lot of fluid all at once. Spread out fluids during the day. Avoid drinking fluids within 2 hours of bedtime. • Avoid over-the-counter cold and sinus medicines that contain decongestants or antihistamines. These drugs can increase BPH symptoms. • Keep warm and exercise regularly. Cold weather and lack of physical activity may worsen symptoms. • Learn and perform Kegel exercises (pel-
By Parminder Sethi, MD changes in treatment. Patients can typically go home the day of vic strengthening exercises). Dr. Sethi is a Board Certified Urolosurgery or the day after, and recovery is • Reduce stress. Nervousness gist with Pacific Urology. He specializes very fast. and tension can lead to more in minimally-invasive BPH treatments, The treatment you choose will be frequent urination. incontinence, bladder dysfunction and based on how bad your symptoms are Men are typically startsurgery. Dr. Sethi was instrumental in and how much they bother you. Your ed on medications to see if developing Pacific Urology’s Continence doctor will also take into account other symptoms improve. Some Center for men and women. For more medical problems you may have. If you men notice considerable imhave BPH, you should have a yearly exam information call 925-609-7220 or visit provement while others do www.PacificUrology.com. to monitor your symptoms and discuss not. In general, most men tolerate the medications well, although some men PAID ADVERTORIAL prefer a surgical procedure to relieve symptoms. In other instances, surgery is unavoidable. Options performed in the doctor’s office that do not require surgery are By Jewel Johl, MD therapies that deliver targeted heat within the prostate to remove excess prostatic quality of life and alleviates A form of wheat germ tissue. These procedures do not require fatigue in patients with adcalled fermented wheat general anesthesia, although local anesvanced lung cancer and head germ is a mixture of natural thesia is typically given to increase patient and neck cancer. compounds created from an comfort. The patient is able to return Fermented wheat extract made from the ferhome shortly after the procedure and can germ extract also regulates mentation of wheat germ that resume normal activities within a few the body’s immune system uses baker’s yeast to concendays. These therapies are ideal for patients to not only fight cancer cells, trate certain naturally active who do not want to take daily medicabut also to decrease inflamcompounds called benzoquitions for the rest of their lives or do not mation and pain in patients suffering nones. It was first invented in the early want the risks of surgery. from various autoimmune conditions 1990s in Hungary and is now available Technological advancements have such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. as a dietary supplement in the U.S. made the surgical treatment of BPH less A study published in the journal Clinical A study published in the July 2003 invasive, simpler, and safer for the patient. issue of the British Journal of Cancer was Experiments in Rheumatology in 2006 Two relatively recent advancements have conducted in patients with colon cancer demonstrated that morning stiffness been the use of lasers to perform a resecwas reduced when patients used the who had undergone various treattion (removal of some tissue) of the prosfermented wheat germ, and half the ments such as surgery, chemotherapy tate and the use of bipolar resectoscopes. patients were able to significantly reduce and radiation. The study concluded their use of steroids. Reducing the that fermented wheat germ extract, in reliance on steroids allowed patients to combination with surgery plus radio/ have fewer side effects associated with chemotherapy, may inhibit progression these drugs, such as digestive problems, of cancer, including the formation of skin thinning, hypertension, increased new metastases, and may prolong the blood glucose, increased cancer risk, and survival of colorectal cancer patients. It weight gain. is important to note that there were no serious side effects from this supplement Please consult your doctor to see if this product is right for you. Dr. Johl is other than its unpleasant taste. a Medical Oncologist and Hematolo Besides the benefit of this extract gist with Diablo Valley Oncology. He in patients suffering from colon canwill be speaking at the Many Faces of cer, it has shown promising activity in terms of reducing disease progression in Colon Cancer on March 26, 2014, at the Cancer Support Community in Walnut patients who have melanoma with stage III disease, a deadly form of skin cancer. Creek. For more information about this educational event, please visit www. In addition to having direct anti-cancer dvohmg.com or call 925-677-5041. properties, this extract also improves
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Help to Quit Smoking By Richard Weissman, L.Ac., Acupuncture Wellness Center drawal symptoms when quit Cigarette smoking was ting. With acupuncture, pacommon and fashionable in tients experience a decrease in the 1960s. Second-hand smoke cravings, the taste and smell of was a smell on our hair, skin cigarettes becomes intolerable, and clothes. With each inhaand there is an increased state lation we breathed in 4,000 of calm and relaxation. chemicals, including arsenic, If you have ever atammonia, carbon monoxide, tempted to quit, you know lead, mercury and 50 canthere are multiple withdrawal symptoms. cer-causing agents. Smoking now causes You may have experienced: insomnia, fa443,000 deaths per year, according to the tigue, feeling jittery, cough, tightness in the Centers for Disease Control. It increases chest, dry mouth, constipation, irritability, the risk of stroke, lung cancer, aneurysm, infertility, many types of cancer and more. depression, anxiety and lack of concentration. Acupuncture addresses each client as It is difficult to quit because nicotine is an individual for the best results. Research addictive and causes a huge surge of “feel supports acupuncture’s role in balancing good” dopamine to be released. the body’s nerves and chemistry. This im Acupuncture addresses physical, proves resolution, energy, sleep, digestion mental and emotional addiction. The Naand focus. tional Acupuncture Detoxification Association promotes fine needles to five points Acupuncture Wellness Center is loon the ear. Along with treatment based on cated at 2261 Morello Avenue (complex behind Hillcrest Center/ Kinder’s) in Eastern diagnosis, these points from the Pleasant Hill For more information call radial pulse at the wrist and information from the tongue may effectively curb with- 925-671-2100. PAID ADVERTORIAL
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Nontraditional Shopping Styles By Tonya Marie Amos, Aspire Pilates knees and walk deeply, as I don’t get along with if in a squat. Your legs will grocery shopping; I avoid thank you. it at all costs. I won’t even Reach up high on shelves venture into a grocery store -Rise up on your toes a few until there is nothing edible times before pulling someleft in the house. When I fithing off of a shelf. This imnally do need to shop, I find proves leg strength and balthat doing simple exercise ance. Switch arms on the helps me get through this next round to challenge yourself. chore nicely. Here are some tricks to Pull items off bottom shelf - Inwork your body and mind while going stead of rounding your spine forward, through your shopping list. (Rememhinge at your hips and keep your spine ber to check in with your doctor first.) long. This works your legs while proDeep breathing – Activate your core tecting your back. muscles and decrease stress: Slowly Stand in line - Instead of exclusively inhale then exhale. Hold your belly in plotting on the chocolate covered pofor a few seconds then repeat. tato chips and celebrity scandals at Carry a basket - Use your bent arm checkout, balance on one leg. as an opportunity to work your bi Finding ways to incorporate excep strength. Switch sides often to ercise into mundane tasks is a great strengthen evenly and challenge your way to improve your health and makes coordination. these tasks more entertaining. While Push a shopping cart - Bend your you can do most of these shopping exercises without anyone noticing, the occasional person may wonder what you are doing. And what happens when that rare person does notice your Pilates for Athletes • Pilates for Dancers nontraditional shopping style? Deep Modern Dance down they’ll wish they had your enthuCore Strength to take your siasm for exercise and maybe even folgame to the next level. low your lead. Tonya Marie Amos is a fully certified Pilates instructor. For more information, please call (925) 680-4400 or go to www.AspirePilatesCenter.com.
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March 2014
Community Announcements
Hospice of the East Bay has announced a Spring/Summer schedule for their support groups and workshops for adults, children and teens experiencing grief after the death of a loved one or the loss of a pet. Classes offered at Hospice’s Administrative Offices, 3470 Buskirk Ave., Pleasant Hill, and the Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation, 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek. Pre-registration is required for all groups and classes, except our drop-in group. To register: (925) 887-5681. Visit www.hospiceeastbay. org for schedule. Pleasant Hill Garden Study Club meets Tuesday, March 4, at 7pm. PH Community Center, 320 Civic Drive. Speaker: Patty Peterson, “From Lawn to Farm.” Guests are welcome & free; (925) 944-4898. www.phgsc. com. Pins for Paws - Join Contra Costa Humane Society for our annual bowling fundraiser Friday, March 7, 7-9 pm at Danville Bowl, 200 Boone Court. $15/child, $20/adults for two games plus shoes! Win a raffle prize or a contest. Proceeds benefit CCHS animals and programs. Advance reservations encouraged as we sold out last year! Come with friends and form teams. Reservations by mail or via www.cchumane.org. Contact 925-279-2247 for more information. Customer Appreciation Day at Antique Corner Saturday, March 8, 10:30am – 5:30pm. Join us for snacks and a storewide sale! 500 Ferry Street, Martinez, (925) 3729330. Big Bag of Books Sale, Saturday, March 8, 11am - 4pm, Martinez Public Library, 740 Court Street. Choose from a large selection of fine books, DVDs, audio books and fill a grocery sack for only $5. All proceeds from
this sale, sponsored by Friends of the Martinez Library, support library programs for children and adults.
Contra Costa Wind Symphony presents “Mountains and Canyons” Sunday, March 9, 7:30pm. The majestic settings of the Grand Canyon, Mount Diablo, Machu Picchu and the Shenandoah River serve as the inspirational backdrop for the upcoming spring concert, featuring the West Coast premiere of a new transcription of Ferde Grofé’s “Grand Canyon Suite” by Randol Alan Bass, as well as a reprise of Steven Reineke’s acclaimed “Mount Diablo: A Symphonic Portrait.” The concert will also feature Satoshi Yagisawa’s “Machu Picchu: City in the Sky” and Bass’s arrangement of “Shenandoah.” Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. Tickets (925)943SHOW (7469) or lesherartscenter.org, $25 adults, $18 seniors and COMPLIMENTARY TICKETS FOR STUDENTS; www. ccwindsymphony.org. The Society of American Magicians Assembly #112 meets 3rd Wednesday of the month at 7pm; Veterans of Foreign Wars, 1919 Wendell Lane, Pleasant Hill. Open to all! Contact Fred at (925) 451-1292. Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day and Fund a Need! Looking for a FUNdraiser for those in need in your community and beyond? Join us at Pleasant Hill Rotary Club’s Annual St. Patrick’s Day Fundraiser on Friday, March 14, 5:30pm at the amazing new Pleasant Hill Community Center! The Irish themed cocktail party features seven local restaurants providing a taste of Pleasant Hill. Guests can mingle, eat, and drink at their leisure. There will be a variety ways to give, from the live and silent auction to the raffle and instant
wine cellar. Tickets are $50. Contact Jim Bonato to buy or reserve tickets now (925) 938-5433 or JBonato@aol.com. WEAR GREEN! Corporate sponsorship opportunities are also available; email elizabethchapple@grossigroup.com.
Annual St. Patrick’s Day Dinner at Grace Episcopal Church! Hosted by the young people of Grace Episcopal Church, March 15. Happy Hour: 5:30pm. Dinner: 6:30pm. Join us for corned beef and cabbage and other goodies, beverages and musical entertainment! Grace Episcopal Church, 130 Muir Station Road, Martinez. Tickets are $20/Adult and $10/Child age 6-12. Call (925) 383-8386 or e-mail: jennifer.sabroe@sbcglobal.net. Diablo Oncology Events Improving Your Quality of Life: Oncology Rehab & Nutrition Wednesday, March 12, 6-7:30pm. Diablo Valley Physical Therapy and Lifestyle Center, 400 Taylor Blvd, #305, Pleasant Hill. This informative session will explain the benefits of oncology rehab, physical therapy and balanced nutrition. Alison Taba, DPT, will discuss appropriate therapeutic exercises to reduce stress and gain strength and energy. Tinrin Chew, RD, will share nutritional tips for developing a healthful diet that rebuilds your body’s cells and energy level. To register, visit ImprovingQualityOfLife.eventbrite.com or call (925) 677-5041 x272. The Many Faces of Colon Cancer Wednesday, March 26, 6-8pm, Cancer Support Community, 3276 McNutt Ave, Walnut Creek. Event will focus on the unique issues of colorectal cancer patients. Join an engaging panel of medical experts as they cover the most current information regarding pre-
vention, screening, treatment options, latest surgical techniques, oncology rehabilitation and survivorship. Please register as seating is limited. Admission and refreshments are complimentary. ManyFacesOfColonCancer. eventbrite.com or call (925) 677-5041 x272. Speakers: Prem Chahal, MD; Jewel Johl, MD; Samuel Oommen, MD; Alison Taba, DPT. Pitch, Hit & Run Competition & Home Run Derby hosted by Pleasant Hill Baseball Association, Sunday, March 23. Pitch, Hit & Run 8am to 4pm; visit www.PHBA.org for specific age-group times. Open to ages 7-14 with 4 levels of competition. (Birth certificate required if not a registered PHBA player.) Participation is free! Home Run Derby is $5 for 5 pitches and runs from 8am-4pm for ages 5-12 years, 4-5pm for ages 13-17 years, and 5-6pm for 18 years and over. Located at the new Pleasant Hill Baseball Association Sports Complex, Pleasant Oaks Park, 2 Santa Barbara Rd., Pleasant Hill. Common Core Night for Grades 6-12, March 25, 6:30-8pm. Find out what Common Core really looks like in the classroom and get answers from educators. Presented in conjunction with the Pleasant Hill Education Commission and will feature live demonstrations by experienced teachers in four different subject areas. Additional information from the library on resources that support this new learning model will be available. Adults only. Pleasant Hill Library, 1750 Oak Park Blvd. 925-927-3235. A Lenten Mission at Saint Catherine of Siena Church Monday, March 24 through Thursday, March 27, from 7 - 8:30pm, 604 Mellus Street, Martinez. Speaker, Fr. Jose Arong, O.M.I, will present: “Living Our Faith In Light of Pope Francis’ Encyclical Lumen Fidei.” For more information, please contact St. Catherine Parish Office at (925) 228-2230. Italian Catholic Federation Branch #13 annual Spaghetti & Meatball Family Fundraising Dinner Saturday, April 5, 5:30pm. No-host cocktails, 6pm dinner. St. Catherine of Siena Parish Hall, 604 Mellus Street, Martinez. $25 Family Deal includes 2 adults and 2 or 3 children 5 to 11 years old. Adults 12 years and older, $10; children 5 to 11 years old, $5; children under 5 years are free. Proceeds benefit scholarship and other programs. For tickets call 925-229-2665. The community is invited to a potluck dinner March 30 at 5:30pm, St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, 1601 Mary Drive, PH. Marty Brunstein, author of Two Among The Righteous Few, will be the speaker at 6:30pm. His book is the story of his in-laws, Jewish, who were in WWII hidden by a young Dutch couple. Come for program and dinner (optional). Contact Gayle Garrison for more information: (925) 798-7528, or tarheel61@ yahoo.com.
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