• July 2012
Delivered to Over 40,000 Homes and Businesses
Photo courtesy Main Street Martinez
Photo by Todgomes.com
• 4th of July Celebrations................................ page 7 • Wine Walks & BBQ Winners.................... page 10 • Retiring Educators.......................................page 12 • Spring 2012 All-League...............................page 18
• Rankin Park Then & Now............................... page 20 • Hike for Life!.................................................... page 23 • Snake Season..................................................... page 28 • Blues & Brews.................................................... page 32
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July 2012
JULIE SAYS
Ghostly Summer Adventures
2835 Contra Costa Blvd., Suite E | Pleasant Hill, CA
By Julie Ross and buildings cling to sheer drop-offs, In the April issue of Community and there is a seriously strange vibe to the Focus, my article featured the town of place. Guanajuato, Mexico, best known for its Also note that getting to Jerome is not museum filled with the mummified refor the faint of heart. The town is a mile mains of former townsfolk. I invited readhigh up in the hills and is reached by a ers to share their own weird travel tales. seemingly endless road snaking its way Reader Adrianne Roe alerted me to one up and up and then up some more. You of her favorite “haunts,” the ghost town of will, however, be rewarded with fantastic Gold Point, Nevada, which has been lovviews in addition to the feeling you have ingly preserved since 1981 by a gentleman stepped onto the set of a horror movie. If named Sheriff Stone. He and a couple of you happen to be in the area on the first friends bought and began restoring the old Saturday of any month, you can forget post office and other deserted buildings. Sheriff Stone encourages travelers to “Vacation in the about ghosts while you take in the Jerome Art Walk and visit twenty-five galleries and studios. The annual Ghost Old West.” He describes accommodations in Gold Point Walk is scheduled for October 12 and 13 this year for any as “rustic on the outside.” A trip to the website confirms brave souls out there. this. One can choose from the more “deluxe” Radkie If you aren’t able to follow Adrianne’s recommendaHouse or opt for one of the four standard cabins, includtion to visit Gold Point or make it out to Jerome this suming the perhaps aptly named “House of Payne.” Food is mer, there are plenty of other noteworthy ghost towns served family style at the Main House, where one can west of the Mississippi. Check out Garnet, Montana; listen to Sheriff Stone spin a colorful yarn or two. VisiSouth Pass City, Wyoming; St. Elmo, Colorado; Terlingua, tors to Gold Point are welcome to browse through Stone’s Texas or Goldfield, Arizona for a “spirited” taste of Ameri115-pound album containing no fewer than 8,000 ghost can history. Happy summer! town photos. Really. By chance, Adrianne’s note about Gold Point reached Contact Julie at julieakross@comcast.net me shortly after my family had returned from our spring break trip to the Grand Canyon, which included a blast-fromthe-past stop in the ghost town of Jerome, Arizona. Back in the early 1900s, Jerome was proclaimed to be the “wickedest town in the West,” full of gamblers, stagecoach robbers, claim jumpers and such. By the time my husband Murray and I discovered Jerome in the 1970s, the town had Photo Courtesy of Berthold Steinhilber, Gold Point Nevada cleaned up quite a bit from its outlaw heyday. Artists and PLEASANT HILL counterculture types had made USE YOUR LOCAL PRINTER the town home and opened up 222 SUMMER IS IN FULL SWING a few charming galleries and SWIM TEAM, YMCA, cafes. SUMMER CAMPS…. On our visit this year, WE ARE YOUR LOCAL PRINTER we found a lot more activPLEASANT HILL ity in Jerome, but somehow it PROGRAMS INVITES seemed much spookier than FLYERS I remembered -- one could T-SHIRTS, HATS, CUPS ETC. ETC. imagine paranormal goingsWE PRINT IT ALL www.minutemanpressph.com on without much difficulty. Pleasant Hill City Hall Photo by Susan Wood Photography Rickety, witchy looking houses
Minuteman
Press
925-256-6444
Independent & Locally Owned
PUBLISHERS Becky Coburn, Jennifer Neys, Elena Hutslar info@ourcommunityfocus.com A Monthly Publication delivered to over 40,000 Homes and Businesses in Pleasant Hill, Martinez, Pacheco, Lafayette and Walnut Creek
ADVERTISING advertising@ourcommunityfocus.com SPORTS EDITOR Chuck Nan martinezsportsed@aol.com GRAPHIC DESIGN Trish Heaney, Debra Wilson COPY EDITOR Alison Clary
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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.
July 2012
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HOUSING NEWS
July 2012
Real Estate Update
The fiercely competitive seller’s market we entered into earlier this year rages on as we head into summer. Making things even more challenging for those unfortunate people out there looking for a place to call home is a rental market that is no more forgiving. The bottom line: if you want to get into a good house in a good neighborhood, you’ve got your work cut out for you. You also better plan on spending more than you expected. Interestingly enough, this daunting prospect is further constraining one source of housing inventory that, over the past few years, has been quite plentiful: short sales. Many homeowners who were considering dumping their underwater homes via a short sale are choosing instead to work towards a loan modification or just plain do whatever it takes to keep their mortgage paid. This newfound desire to continue being a homeowner is further fueled by a newfound optimism in the future of the
By Nathan Hitchcock housing market. After years of dropping values, many homeowners felt more like they were coming home to a boat anchor than a home. Mathematically, dumping that bad investment made perfect sense. Throw in some good old pessimism about what the future holds for home values and a short sale became a no-brainer for many. But watching the value of your home rise by about 15% in five months is something even the Grinch would have difficulty being pessimistic about. The feeling on the street among prospective and current homeowners has shifted dramatically. It’s now no longer a question of if home values will return to their former levels, but rather when they will return. So what is a prospective homebuyer to do? My advice: don’t despair. The faint-of-heart are already starting to fold under the pressure. From what I can glean from my daily interaction with the market, the volume of competition has somewhat dropped off over the past couple of weeks.
It’s possible that it is just a seasonal fluctuation. May is typically an extremely busy month in the real estate market, and June usually brings a bit of a respite. The end of the school year is a major reason for this lull; as a parent, I can certainly attest to the number of distractions this time of year brings. But another reason is that many buyers are fed up with being repeatedly outbid by competing buyers. Facing the reality of having to spend significantly more than they had intended, many buyers are simply heading back to the sidelines to see how everything unfolds. So stay strong and don’t give up your quest just yet. If you play your cards right, you may just find your dream home while your competition is sulking in the corner or sipping a Mai Tai on their summer vacation. Nathan Hitchcock is the managing broker of Hitchcock Realty, he can be reached at nathan@hitchcockrealty.com or (925) 825-1100.
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July 2012
-F ashione d l O d o o G d
4th of July! urth of July o F in
Family fun ALL DAY at Pleasant Hill’s 4th of July!
Pleasant Hill Fun entertainment ALL DAY on the stage & lawn!
6:30am Registration for Firecracker 5K Fun Run 8:00am Start of Pleasant Hill’s 8th annual Firecracker 5K Fun Run 9:30am Start of Pleasant Hill’s famous hometown Parade 10:30am Party-in-the-Park Lots of games: Burlap sack races, Bean bag toss, Water balloon toss, Tug-O-War, Watermelon eating, Rubber chicken toss, Family relay Rootbeer floats, popcorn,Live entertainment, Kids Petting Zoo 7:15pm Cover2Cover (the band that puts a fresh spin on old classics) and Fireworks over College Park High
LUMBERYARD— music from the “great fountain of musical gestation era”– mid 60s-mid 70s hits Jinx Jones & the King Tones— old time Rockabilly and Rock ‘n Roll fun Buttons Z Clown Watermelon eating contest!
PLUS! Great food from
Back 40 Texas BBQ (in the park) Slow Hand BBQ (6:30 at CPHS)
THANK YOU...to all the businesses and individuals who made this possible! Grand Sponsor / Crackling Finale
Allied Waste Services Don & Norma Flaskerud AAA Insurance Patrick & Shirley Campbell Foundation City Arms East, LLC Advanced Eyecare Optometry Back 40 Texas BBQ Concord Feed Daily Digital Imaging Donaghu Graphic Designs Jim & Margi Alkire Jim & Sandy Bonato David Deutscher Co. Councilmember David Durant/ Network for Good Cresco Equipment
Loja Pleasant Hill, LLC City of Pleasant Hill Sponsor / Starburst Comcast Dan Chao Insurance Agency Pleasant Hill Lions Club
Pleasant Hill Coin & Jewelry Exchange Pleasant Hill Recreation & Park District Rotary Club of Pleasant Hill State Farm Insurance– Matthew Rinn Agency
Patron / Kaboom Pete Sabine & Lori O'Brien / Gas System Engineering Pacific Union International Golden Gate Petroleum Play It Again Sports Irvin Deutscher YMCA PH Chamber of Commerce Councilmember Michael Harris PH Community Focus & Dawn Block PH Community Foundation John F. Kennedy University Rappicci's Italian Ice Magoo's Grill
Slow Hand BBQ The Kensington TaylorMade Water Systems Trujillo and Vinson, LLP
Supporter / Oooooooh Mr. Lucky's of Pleasant Hill Hillcrest Veterinary Diablo Trophies & Awards Hospital Payless Painting Eames Hardware & Supply Ken & Eileen Housfeld Rubios Far West Sanitation & Storage Jo's Sushi Bar Santiago & Associates Fast Signs Don & Linda Mayo Seel & Wright, LLC Grace Cleaners Karen Mitchoff, Contra Simons Structural Engineering Mayor John & May Hanecak Costa County Supervisor Jack Weir, Councilmember Richard & Gloria Henne Donor / Aaaaaaah
All Out Baseball C & M Party Props Chipotle Coco Swirl Country Waffles
Fast Signs Five Guys Hamburgers Debby Fleckinger George Hardistry Hair at the Ritz Innovations
Jack's Restaurant and Bar Kelly Ann's Day Spa Melo's Pizza Peet's Coffee Robyn and Chris Rice RSC Equipment Rental
Christine Sampson, State Farm Insurance Sinful Bliss Cupcakes Viano Vineyards Wild Birds Unlimited
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A Grand Old Flag Parade
Join us in downtown Martinez this Fourth of July for a hometown parade on Main Street. Over 40 entries, including many community groups, will march down Main St. beginning at Court St. to Alhambra Ave. This year’s theme is “It’s a Grand Old Flag” and prizes will be awarded to those who incorporate them in to their parade entry. A Flag Raising Ceremony at the Veterans Memorial Building will take place at 8-8:15am, at 930 Ward St. Then head over to the pancake breakfast from 8-10am. Breakfast includes pancakes, sausage, eggs, juice or coffee. Price is $3 for kids up to age 10 and $6 for adults. The breakfast is sponsored by Roxx on Main and is located at 627 Main St. After the breakfast, join us on Main St. for a hometown parade beginning at 10:00am. Entries include CERT (Community Emergency Response Team), Cub Scout Pack 184, ATA Martial Arts, Soroptimists International, Martinez Rotary Club, Shell
Oil Products, and more! There’s still time to get your club, business, group, or school in the parade. It’s free to enter and awards are given immediately following the parade at the review stand! And, don’t miss the City of Martinez Fourth of July Fireworks display at Waterfront Park. Fireworks begin at dusk and will last approximately 25 minutes. This first time event would not be possible without the generous support of these businesses: Shell Oil Products US Martinez Refinery, Sign Me UP, KKDV 92.1, Claycord.com, The UPS Store on Arnold Dr., Allied Waste Services, Marty O’s Concessions and Catering, Roxx on Main, Ron’s Tow Service, California Pacific Federal Credit Union, and a special thanks to the City of Martinez. For more details visit www.mainstreetmartinez.org or call (925) 2283577. For more information about the city fireworks visit www.cityofmartinez.org
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PLEASANT HILL CITY BUZZ First, I’d like to report that the Pleasant Hill Youth Summit pilot on May 24 was a huge success and over 500 Pleasant Hill youth participated.1 Things they liked most about Pleasant Hill, in prioritized order, were: 1) In & Out Burger, 2) youth programs, and 3) the convenience of everything. Changes they would most like to see in Pleasant Hill, in prioritized order, were: 1) lower gas prices, 2) more carnivals and 3) allowing dogs in more places. The most asked question was how Pleasant Hill got its name. This question has stumped even professional historians for decades. There are various theories, most of which date to the late 1800s. As
July 2012
Mayor’s Message
John Hanecak, Mayor of Pleasant Hill a result, when school resumes in the fall, In addition to these activities, you I will ask our youth to use their creativity might like to visit your favorite busiand critical thinking skills to help answer nesses, including some of our newest: this question. I’ll keep you posted. Safeway, Golfsmith and In & Out Burger. Summer has arrived and many As some have heard, Pleasant Hill will activities await us. If you are enjoying a proudly welcome the arrival of Nord“staycation,” or have some time throughstrom Rack (next to the new Safeway) out the summer and fall, come join us at and Zachary’s Chicago Pizza (downour popular Sunset by the Lake summer town). I have been asked why these concerts, the Plaza Concerts, the Pleasbusinesses decided to locate in Pleasant ant Hill Farmers’ Market, the Fourth of Hill and make significant investments July festivities and the Blues and Brews during such challenging economic times. Festival. Peruse this issue for display ads I believe these decisions are the result listing dates and times of these events or of a unique combination of committed see the Pleasant Hill Outlook newsletcommercial property owners, an ideal ter or click on the 2012 Festival Calenlocation, solid demographics and a supdar on the city’s website: http://www. portive community and city. ci.pleasant-hill.ca.us. I want to thank the Finally, I’d like to remind everyone many organizations, businesses and inthat our city council will be discussing dividuals that make these events possible and deciding our two-year budget later for everyone to enjoy. this month. I want to thank our city staff for their commitment to improving the
Stimulating the Economy
Retail Marketing, Promotional Events and Banner Programs all underway Pleasant Hill’s Economic Development Committee has been developing and implementing new initiatives to help stimulate, retain and attract businesses. Since the creation of the Economic Development Committee in 2011, the committee and city staff have explored programs that involve design, economic assistance and business promotion to revitalize and strengthen the city’s assets. Business Concierge Program at City Hall Some projects completed to date include: the implementation of an expanded “business concierge” approach for service delivery to customers; promotion of new businesses in the city through a special “Open For Business” insert in the November 2011 edition of the Outlook; and a business survey in February 2012, included with all business license renewals. Other projects include a new comprehensive business resources guide for business promotion and attraction, and a commercial real-estate broker outreach program that includes roundtable discussions on how the city can better assist them in attracting new business. Retail Marketing Incentive Program In April 2012, the city launched the Retail Marketing Incentive “Pilot” Program, which provides “matching grants” to qualified Pleasant Hill retail businesses. The program started with an initial allocation of $47,500 and, to date, all program funds have committed to providing assistance to twelve retail businesses and one neighborhood shopping center. The program will include a comprehensive marketing plan and direct advertising to promote additional sales. Special Events and Banner Programs In addition to completed projects, the committee has been working with the Chamber of Commerce on a new Contra Costa Boulevard banner program to promote “Dine, Shop, Enjoy Pleasant Hill” to encourage local shopping. The city also has an ongoing collaboration with downtown property owner Loja Group, LLC and the chamber on events like the Farmers’ Market, Downtown Plaza Concert Series, Wine Walks and the Art, Jazz and Wine Festival, all events that continue to draw visitors to downtown. For more information on any of these programs, contact Kelly Calhoun, Economic Development Manager at (925) 671-5213 or email her at kcalhoun@ ci.pleasant-hill.ca.us.
way our financial information is reported; it helps the city achieve its goals as we move forward to implement our general plan. You’ll find the budget documents on the city’s website, attached to our June 18 city council agenda. Please contact city staff and/or your council members if you have any questions or comments. 1 The pilot consisted of over 450 youth
completing an initial four-part questionnaire and then 250 students voting on those ideas to generate a list of priorities. The pilot focused primarily on College Park and Valley View students (along with some students from PHMS and CTK). The summit was made possible through the support of our 6th-12th graders, the Mt. Diablo School District, the Pleasant Hill Recreation and Park District, and the City of Pleasant Hill. A special thanks to Superintendent Steven Lawrence, College Park Principal Paul Gengler, Valley View Principal Ean Ainsworth, former College Park Principal Barbara Oakes, Co-President of the College Park PTSA Kathleen Strange, Pleasant Hill City’s own PIO Martin Nelis and a great group of committee members.
City Calendar of Events Architectural Review Commission July 5, 19 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane Large Community Room, 5:00pm Contact: 671-5209
Education Commission July 25 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane Large Community Room, 7:00pm Contact: 671-5229
City Council July 2, 16 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane Council Chambers, 7:30pm Contact: 671-5229
Planning Commission July 10, 24 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane Council Chambers, 7:30pm Contact: 671-5209
Civic Action Commission July 4 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane Small Community Room, 6:30pm Contact: 671-5229
Zoning Administrator July 12, 26 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane Public Works Conference Room, 5:00pm Contact: 671-5209
For Confirmation Visit: www.ci.pleasant-hill.ca.us
♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦
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July 2012
Mayor’s Message Time has been tough for all of us in this sputtering economy and that includes local and state government. For the last several years, all one hears is that cities and the state have multimillion and multi-billion dollar deficits and are cutting services, reducing salaries and benefits, and laying off employees. In Martinez we had a structural deficit of $700,000 that we solved by eliminating some management positions at the top of our organizational structure, freezing new hires, cutting overall general expenses and negotiating reductions in health care and retirement costs to the city with our employee groups. Recent review of the first year of our two-year budget shows that we will end the year with a very small surplus of about $2,000 and a total unrestrictive reserve fund of $3.5 million (or about twenty percent of
Rob Schroder, Mayor of Martinez our General Fund). ever. They do it because they love Marti The forecast for the next year is that nez and the people of the community. sales tax income could increase by one Over the last few years, public empercent, but we are planning for it to reployees have taken a beating in the press main flat. Property tax income reduction and editorial pages, but very little of that has finally bottomed out and is expected criticism is deserved, especially here in to remain flat for at least the next year. Currently, city staff is working on a fiveyear financial forecast to keep the city fi Last year the city of Martinez invited nancially healthy so it can weather these the community to collaborate on “Downtough economic times. In my opinion, one of the major rea- town Matters,” a series of workshops and sons that Martinez has managed to min- multiple city tours designed to refresh the vision for the historic downtown area. imize reductions of service to our citi One noticeable outcome is the inzens and still remain relatively healthy stallation of the new “Flex-Space” dining is due to the hard work and sacrifice of platforms directly in front of several reseach and every one of our 126 employtaurants on Main Street. These 16’ or 32’ ees. Dedicated public servants include platforms (the size of one or two parking people like City Manager Phil Vince, spaces) are designed with railings to promen and women in the corporation vide a safe and enjoyable al fresco experiyard, recreation, pool, water treatment ence. plant, planning, engineering, finance, In early June, the first platforms and maintenance, as well as officers who were installed outside of Compass Star patrol our streets twenty-four hours a and Roxx on Main. Roxanne Cole, ownday. They have made personal sacrifices er, has been pleased with the results so and taken on more responsibility than far. “I have yet to notice any increase in business, but the positive comments are worth every penny. It’s an invitation to Planning Commission Meeting dine at Roxx, whether inside or out. We July 10, 24 7:00pm-11:00pm are building counter bars to increase seatContact: 925-372-3500 ing and encourage gathering for the eveZoning Administrator Meeting ning. We want people to have an evening July 4, 18 out and not rush; a place to gather and
Design Review Meeting July 11, 25 3:00pm-5:00pm Contact: 925-372-3500 Park, Recreation, Marina & Cultural Commission July 17 7:00pm-11:00pm Contact: 925-372-3500
MARTINEZ CITY BUZZ Martinez. On behalf of the city council and the entire community of Martinez, I would like to thank the employees of the City of Martinez for their dedicated service. You are appreciated!
Outdoor Dining Room
City Calendar of Events City Council Meeting July 4, 18 7:00pm-11:00pm Contact: 925-372-3500
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3:00pm-5:00pm Contact: 925-372-3500
enjoy music, food, wine and friends,” said Cole. Additional platforms have been installed at Marty O’s Pizzeria on Main Street and Ferry Street, and Copper Skillet is planned as well. “Pacifica Pizza and Lemon Grass have applications and we will order the materials for those as soon as we know when we can get the new pavement completed on the 500 block of Main,” said Dave Scola, Public Works Director for the city. The platforms are designed for use year round. On May 16, the city council allocated $75,000 of Traffic Impact Fee funds for the “Flex-Space” Program. Because the platforms can take up as many as two parking spaces, the restaurant will pay a monthly parking space use fee of $60 per space. Each platform costs $5,000, and participating restaurants pay a $1200 portion with their application fee. Half of the materials used to construct the platforms are purchased in Martinez.
July 4 City Offices Closed All City Meetings at City Hall, 525 Henrietta Street, Unless Otherwise Indicated For Confirmation Visit: www.cityofmartinez.org
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Al fresco dining at Roxx on Main
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PLEASANT HILL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Please verify schedule at www.pleasanthillchamber.com • 925-687-0700
7/6 - Ambassador Meeting, Pleasant Hill City Hall, 8am - 9am 7/6 – Wine Walk /Plaza Concerts, Downtown Pleasant Hill $20 includes wine glass, passport & hors d’oeuvres. Enjoy music by David Martin’s House Party. Tickets available at http://julywinewalk.eventbrite.com/ or (925) 687-0700, or in front of Pasta Pomodoro at the event. 5:30pm8pm. 7/10 – Leadership Lunch – Shaadzee Bakery Bistro, 60 Crescent Dr., Pleasant Hill, 11:45pm 1pm
music at Pleasant Hill Park. Unlimited Beer Tasting Wristband $30 when purchased in advance! (See our back page ad for more details!) 126pm.
July 2012
First PH Wine Walk
7/30 – Green Committee, Back Forty Texas BBQ, 100 Coggins Dr., Pleasant Hill, 4pm - 5pm 7/30 – Government Affairs Committee, Back Forty Texas BBQ, 100 Coggins Dr., Pleasant Hill, 4:30pm - 6pm
CALENDAR SPONSORED BY
7/14 – Ribbon Cutting – Play it Again Sports – New location 1150 Contra Costa Blvd., Concord. 11am 7/18 – Multi-Chamber Mixer – Contra Costa Country Club, 801 Golf Club Road, Pleasant Hill, 5pm - 7pm 7/19 – Board of Directors Meeting, PH City Hall, 7:45am 7/21 – Blues & Brews Come out and enjoy a day of beer tasting, delicious food and free
MARTINEZ CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Please verify schedule at www.martinezchamber.com • 925-228-2345
Ambassador Meeting – If interested in attending, contact Reba at (925) 228-2345 or email Reba@martinezchamber.com 7/4 – Chamber Office Closed, Happy 4th of July 7/4 – 4th of July Parade, Wednesday, 10am - Downtown Martinez 7/6 – 7/8 – Carnival Butler Amusement – Friday thru Sunday – Rides, Games, Food & Fun. Located at Hwy 680 & Hwy 4 (Pacheco Exit off Hwy 4), All Day Wristbands: $20 Advance Sale Tickets (at the Chamber office), or visit www.martinezcarnival. com; $25 at the Carnival. Call the Martinez Chamber for more information.
7/19 - Educational Series – #2 Advanced Social Networking for Business, (Part 2 of 2) Presented by Robin Fox, Social Media Coach, Thursday, 12pm -1pm – Doors open at 11:30. John Muir Best Western Inn, 445 Muir Station Rd. Chamber Members $10, Non-Members $20, Bag Lunch Included. Please RSVP (required) to the Chamber at (925) 228-2345 or email Reba@martinezchamber.com. CALENDAR SPONSORED BY
Photos by susanwoodphotography.com
King of County BBQ
7/12 – Chamber Mixer – Thursday, 5:30 – 7:30pm – Connolly & Taylor, 4000 Alhambra Ave., Martinez. Great Networking, Food, Fun, Raffle Prizes (bring a raffle prize and have your business announced!)
Ribbon Cutting
Marty O’s Pizzeria Open for Business
Photo by RichardCash.com
Marty O’s Pizzeria had their Ribbon Cutting and official Grand Opening celebration on June 21 with over 400 guests in attendance. The party carried on for days with live music, dinner and drink specials. The Marty O’s menu features pizza combos, pasta, sandwiches and even smoothies and deep fried dill pickle spears. The Focus spoke with owner, Marty Ochoa at his restaurant recently and asked if this casual, sports-themed eatery is his dream come true. He joked, “That’s what they tell me!” Marty O’s Pizzeria is located at 802 Main Street in downtown Martinez. For more information on Marty O’s Pizzeria, call 925- 228-7792 for visit facebook: MartyOsPizzeria.
A delicious time was had by all at the Martinez Chamber’s 6th Annual King of the County BBQ Challenge. Below are the winners. Saturday’s Winners — First Place - Chicken: Coast Smoke • Ribs: Steel House BBQ • Chef ’s Choice: Colin Mendenhall - Second Place - Chicken: Shell V-Power • Ribs: Smokin’ Bones • Chefs Choice: Danny Chavez - Third Place - Chicken: Kyle’s Killer Que • Ribs: Bear B Que • Chefs Choice: Smokin’ Mos Sunday’s Winners — First Place - Chicken: Big Shot BBQ • Ribs: Kahuna’s Bones • Chef ’s Choice: Big Shot BBQ - Second Place - Chicken: Dog Day Spice Rub • Ribs: Big Shot BBQ • Chef ’s Choice: Joana Fowler - Third Place - Chicken: Twin Pillars BBQ • Ribs: Team Meeder • Chef ’s Choice: Shell-V-Power
July 2012
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PHCF Announces Community Grant Awards The Pleasant Hill Community Foundation has awarded its annual Community Grant Awards which serve children, seniors and families. The proceeds from our annual fund appeal provided the following awards: funding for College Park Grad Nite; new book collections for the Pleasant Hill Library; a television for the Alzheimer’s program at Rehabilitation Services; live musical theatre for youth at Diablo Theatre Company; weather reporting at Pleasant Hill Instructional Garden; new instruments for Maharlika Cultural Troupe; the exercise program at the Pleasant Hill Senior Center; the school newspaper at Pleasant Hill Middle School; hardware and software updates at Project Second Chance; and the food
bank at Monument Crisis Center. Community Grant Awards Chair Jill Anderson stated, “The Pleasant Hill Community Foundation is very thankful to all the people who have generously donated. Their philanthropy has enabled us to provide much needed support to our local community organizations, which is even more important in these tough economic times.” The Pleasant Hill Community Foundation turns twenty-five this year. Join us for a birthday celebration on August 24 at 5:30pm at the Pleasant Hill Aquatic Park. More information is available on our website. Please visit us at www.PHCommunityFoundation.org.
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CTK Honors Martha “Meta” Evanson By May Hanecak ident by the number of priests she served In 2011, Christ the King Church celover the years including: CTK’s Pastor Faebrated its Diamond Jubilee of 60 years ther Brian Joyce; Associate Pastor Father in the community and Christ the King School honored its 50th Anniversary. It is Donie O’Connor; and retired Associate Pastor Father Brian Timoney. They and clear that 2012 is another significant year for Christ the King with the retirement of many others will miss her dearly. When asked about the number of priests she had Martha “Meta” Evanson after forty-eight served, Meta, at the age of 91, quipped years of dedicated service. that, “they’ve gotten better looking every Meta began working as the houseyear.” keeper and cook for the CTK Rectory Mayor John Hanecak recognized during a cool Easter Sunday on March Meta’s contributions to the community 29, 1964. Her first client was Monsigwith a proclamation at her retirement nor Wade, who enjoyed tuna sandwiches dinner at the Contra Costa Country Club every day for lunch. Meta’s exceptional ability to prepare a on June 4. Bishop John Cummins was also in attendance to recognize Meta for fine meal, like an Irish Stew, and manage a rectory for a large parish, was clearly ev- her tremendous years of service.
FPHE Grant Recipients
On May 18, the Foundation for Pleasant Hill Education (FPHE) awarded $36,600 to support educational activities in Pleasant Hill public schools. The grants were funded as a result of FPHE’s 2012 Annual Campaign and various other 2012 fundraisers. Since 2009, FPHE has awarded over $120,000 and one hundred fifty grants to the eleven public schools within the College Park High School feeder pattern. This year, the Foundation received fifty-eight grant requests and
awarded fifty-three grants to the eleven schools. Every school that requested a grant received one. FPHE grants are awarded based on a combination of criteria, including the number of students impacted and the contribution to or support of language arts, math, science, or other key curriculum areas. A detailed list can be found on the FPHE website, www.fphe.org. FPHE thanks and applauds all 2012 donors for placing a high priority on local education and realizing that strong schools benefit the entire community.
Gregory Gardens Elementary school teachers will use their grant money to purchase items including classroom sets of U.S. maps, a world map and/or globes for kindergarten, 1st, and 3rd grades; multiple classroom sets of science programs/materials for kindergarten and multiple classroom sets of literature programs for kindergarten and 1st grades.
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July 2012
Celebrating Retiring Educators
The Martinez Unified and Mt. Diablo Unified school districts said farewell to several teachers at the end of the 2011-2012 school year, some who had careers that spanned over twenty years. The Focus is honored to highlight a few of those dedicated educators and to wish them well in their retirement. Shelly McHale has been teaching in the MDUSD since 1975. Educated as an elementary school teacher, she accepted the job as a P.E. teacher at Glenbrook Middle School. “I loved the subject and the grade level, so I never went back to the classroom,” she said. Also trained in conflict management, McHale implemented a program at Glenbrook and Pleasant Hill Middle in which students are trained to mediate conflicts among their peers. “I love this program and the fact that I was able to have relationships with the students on an entirely different level than in my regular teaching.” McHale says about the many student and peer relationships she’s developed and enjoyed over the years, “Seeing students years later and having them remember things about our years together is a treasure. I have also had many second-generation students, which reminds me of how long I’ve been doing this!” “To teach middle school you need a constant sense of humor and cannot take yourself too seriously,” she says. “These kids are funny; always making us laugh! They are still so young and are always trying to prove to us how old they are! They are constantly testing us and testing themselves (to say nothing of testing their parents), but deep down they just want to be respected, accepted and loved. If we as teachers can remember that, then we will reach them and have a good relationship with most of them!” McHale and her husband Tom have three daughters and seven grandchildren, and they look forward to more quality time with family. But she will miss “bantering with my friends, having crazy conversations in the lunchroom and being connected to something I’ve done for thirty-seven years... teaching!” Also retiring from MDUSD: Beverly Jacobs retired from Fair Oaks Elementary. She worked in the district for thirty-one years, twenty-eight of those as a
Shelly McHale. Photo by Stephanie Neys
2nd grade teacher. Cindy Flood-Pease began her teaching career in 1981 at St. Peter Martyr School in Pittsburg, where she taught third grade until her oldest son was born. Cindy returned to teach 2nd grade at Mt. Diablo Elementary, then went to Meadow Homes to teach 5th and 1st. She finished her career teaching kindergarten for ten years at Hidden Valley. “I’ve always been most excited by student growth, particularly in reading, and I see the most growth in kindergarten and 1st grade. I look back happily and absolutely love that I have taught so many children to read and (hopefully) love literature,” she said. Cindy and her husband are moving to more open country on the other side of Sacramento. Pleasant Hill Elementary said goodbye to 2nd grade teacher Valerie Boysen and Principal Jennifer Voris who was principal for five years. “Thanks to Jennifer, PHE has reading and math support for struggling students, and this year, we implemented an after school computer class for second language learners to help them learn English,” said Office Manager Lorraine Helton. “She is regularly seen around campus and in classrooms and knows almost every student by name. Jennifer has worked tirelessly to improve PHE and we will miss her and Sitka, our therapy dog.” “After a successful career in education, Peggy McGurk is turning in her playground whistle,” said Strandwod Principal Liz Kim. Peggy taught at Strandwood for fifteen years and has been in the Mt. Diablo district for seventeen, having begun as a special education teacher at Strandwood. After working as a program specialist then returning to the classroom at Rio Vista Elementary, she came back to Strandwood in 2002, where
Peggy McGurk. Photo by Jennie Dye
she taught both 1st grade and kindergarten. “Peggy has influenced so many students and families. Her grace and nurturing personality have soothed many scrapes and bruises, both emotionally and physically for students. Her ability to befriend the parents of her students has provided counsel to them as well. Our wish for Peggy is the joy of an ‘endless summer!’” said Kim. After eighteen years in the district and seventeen at Valhalla, Diane Criner is moving with her husband to a quieter lifestyle in Idaho. Criner taught kindergarten, 2nd and 3rd grades. “What motivates me is seeing my students get excited about learning as we discuss different subjects each day. I also enjoy seeing my former students. I can see how they have been successful and are moving forward in their lives, and I know that I’ve had a small part in that success. I will miss working with truly wonderful colleagues and being around students and parents who are happy to be at Valhalla,” said Criner. Husband Larry Criner was the
first sworn DARE officer. He is leaving the PHPD after twenty-six years. Sandra Conley is retiring after twentyone years working in special education. “The last three years I have held a full inclusion position in the autism magnet programs at Valley View Middle and Concord High. I have loved every minute of working on an excellent team!” said Conley. After six years as Principal of John Swett, Marj Pampe will be retiring. Office Manager JoAnn Buccellato said, “She was a great leader and was able to really pull people together; our test scores went up and we received the California Distinguished School Award for the second time. Replacing Pampe as principal will be Adam Welcome from the San Ramon Valley School District. Also retiring is Sharon Ruddell, Library Media Assistant at Morello Park Elementary, after thirteen years with MUSD. The district also said goodbye to seventeen-year Alhambra High teacher Susan Kimmel, and twenty-eight year Alhambra High teacher Sarah Gallagher, as well as twenty-year Martinez Junior High teacher Sue Brunton, and ten-year teacher Janice Vinco. Even more MUSD Retirees: Mary Cerri, teacher – twelve years at John Swett; Marcia Kent, teacher – twenty years at John Swett; Darlene Pepper, teacher – twenty-four years at Las Juntas Elementary; David Biles, teacher – twenty-eight years at John Swett; Patricia Gallagher, teacher twenty-five years at John Swett.
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Saturdays, SSa aatturddaays, 9 aam-1 m--11 ppm m • RRain aiinn oorr SShine hine July 7 - Enter to win 4 tickets to Pleasant Hill’s annual Family Camp-Out. July 28 - The Cookin’ the Market chefs will be on hand to demonstrate how to make simple and fresh dishes made with market ingredients.
CITY OF PLEASANT HILL
Your Food, Your Community, Your Farmers’ Market
July 2012
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July 2012
CORKS AND FORKS
Pair Up Mendocino Getaway One of my favorite things to do is drive along the north coast of California. The landscape is amazing, and I love the wines from the region. Higher latitude and a closer proximity to the ocean usually mean wines with a touch more acid and tart fruit flavors. In my opinion, Navarro Vineyards and Winery makes the best Gewürztraminer in California. Navarro’s zippy wines pair perfectly with all kinds of cheese. To the right you’ll find you will find a selection of wine and cheese pairing recommendations. Apples and grapes are good fruits to add to a cheese plate because they won’t overpower the wine. The fruit won’t really improve the taste of the wine, but it will taste good with the cheese. In fact, fruit pairs well with cheese for the same reason that wine does; the acids in fruit and wine cut through the fat in cheese. Another fantastic Mendocino winery is Goldeneye. They have one of the most
With La Sommelierre Maria Terry area with benches that sit right out over elegant properties in this rural area. the bluffs. I plan to buy a bottle of Navarro Goldeneye specializes in Pinot Noir, and 2007 Riesling dessert wine to pair with the you will feel like one of the rich and fabreathtaking sunset. mous tasting on their patio. This summer So, go on Pair Up! they are pouring four Pinot Noirs, two Maria Terry is a Certified Sommelier Chardonnays and a Vin Gris (pronounced and Wine Educator in the San Francisco ‘VAN GREE,’ a rosé from Pinot Noir). Bay Area. For more great wines and While you are there, they will give you the information please visit Maria’s website at option to choose from three small plates www.LaSommelierre.com. to pair with the wines: cheese, charcuterie or duck paté. Do consider buying a Pinot Noir to take away with you. Because of its silky Banana Lime tannins and bright acidity, Pinot Noir Black Cherry Mango Blue Bubble Gum Orange works beautifully with a range of dishes Blue Raspberry Passion Fruit Blueberry Pina Colada from seafood to red meat. This makes PiPink Cotton Candy Cherry Chocolate Root Beer not Noir the quintessential wine to take to Coconut Rock and Roll Fruit Punch Strawberry a restaurant or a party when not everyone Grape Tiger’s Blood Green Apple Tutti Frutti is eating the same thing. Lemon Watermelon This year, when Dan and I visit the area, we will be staying at the Sea Rock SUGAR FREE FLAVORS Blue Raspberry Green Apple Inn in Mendocino. It is situated just a few Cherry Watermelon Orange Lime minutes north of town and has breathtakGrape ing ocean views. They have a lovely lawn
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July 2012
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Senior Helpers Opens AFA CARES Affiliate
As the need for education about Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias climbs at an unprecedented rate, Senior Helpers of the San Francisco Bay Area opened an Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) affiliate office within its agency on June 1 to provide additional information and support services to the community. The AFA Care and Resource Education Services (CARES) affiliate office is a collaboration between AFA, a leading national nonprofit organization, and Senior Helpers, one of the nation’s largest in-home senior care companies. Nationwide, eleven AFA affiliates within Senior Helpers offices will kick off beginning this summer. The one-stop resource center features trained community educators who provide resource referrals including books, DVDs and other educational materials about dementia, caregiving and successful aging. The center will also provide access to AFA’s licensed social workers, initiatives and services nationwide, and various programs and events to educate and engage the community. They offer free, confidential memory screenings to the public on the third Saturday of every month from 10am to 1pm. “It’s exciting to bring these additional educational opportunities and resources to our local families,” said Jenny Lind, owner of Senior Helpers of the San Francisco Bay area. “With the overwhelming responsibilities on families affected by dementia, we want to do our part to help them navigate the disease and make a real difference in their quality of life.”
Besides providing education and resources on an ongoing basis, Lind said she hopes the monthly memory screenings “will show our commitment to how important getting ‘checked out’ can be.” It is estimated that 588,208 Californians aged 55 and older are currently living with Alzheimer’s disease, and according to the California Department of Public Health, this number will nearly double by 2030. The opening of the AFA CARES affiliate offices from coast-to-coast reflect the alarming crisis of Alzheimer’s disease, as evidenced by the government’s release of the nation’s first Alzheimer’s plan in mid-May. Moreover, it marks an immediate response to the plan’s call for greater awareness and education, delivery of care-related services to families, and public-private partnerships to accomplish objectives. When Lind opened her Senior Helpers agency in July 2008, she had been looking for a business that “fostered thoughtful and compassionate values,” she said. “I felt like it was a perfect match for me because it reminded me of Sunday nights with my grandfather when he expressed his wish to stay at home, near his family.” About the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America: The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America, based in New York, is a national, nonprofit organization that unites more than 1,600 independent member organizations nationwide with the goal of providing optimal care and services to individuals with dementia, their caregivers and families. Its services
include counseling and referrals by licensed social workers via a toll-free hot line, e-mail, Skype or live chat; educational materials; a free quarterly magazine for caregivers; and professional training. For more information, call tollfree 866-AFA-8484 or visit www.alzfdn. org. About Senior Helpers: Senior Helpers connects professional caregivers with seniors who wish to live at home as opposed to a nursing or assisted living fa-
cility. The company has 300 franchises in 39 states and one in Canada offering a wide range of personal and companion care services to assist seniors living independently, with a strong focus on quality of life for the client and peace of mind for their families. Senior Helpers strives to be the leading companion and personal care provider that offers dependable, consistent and affordable home care. For more information, visit www. seniorhelpers.com.
Martinez Senior Activities 818 Green St. (925) 370-8770 July 8 - Pancake Breakfast 8am – 11am. Pancakes or toast, sausage, eggs, orange juice and coffee. Everyone is welcome. $3.50 adults/$2 10yrs. and younger. Handmade crafts, perfect for gifts, will be on sale during the breakfast. July 20 - BART – Clipper Card 11am- 2pm. BART representatives are coming to our center to bring us the Clipper Card. This is an all-in-one transit card that keeps track of multiple passes, ride books or tickets. The Senior Clipper card will automatically calculate the discounted cash fare or monthly pass fare each time you use it. You must apply for a Senior Clipper card in person; minimum age is 65 years old. After filling out a short form and showing proof of eligibility you will receive your free Senior Clipper Card immediately. The following forms of I.D. are accepted: birth certificate, driver’s license, identification card, Alien Registration/Permanent Resident Card or passport. You can add cash value to your Clipper Card at a Clipper retailer such as Walgreens on Alhambra Ave/Alhambra Way or at any of the 44 BART stations.
Pleasant Hill Senior Activities 249 Gregory Lane (925) 798-8788 July 17 - Backyard BBQ 12pm. Enjoy a classic backyard BBQ on a wonderful July afternoon munching on a hot dog with all the fixings and playing baggo with friends. $5 member/$6 general. Purchase your tickets at the Little House before the event. Pleasant Hill Senior Center Little House. July 25 - Classroom in the Community: “Dehydration” 10:15 - 11am. Free program. The first ten people to register will receive a free lunch from our CC Café, compliments of SCAN Health Plan. Otherwise you may still reserve a meal for $2. Lunch at 11:30am. Pre-registration is required for lunch. Call 798-8788 to register. St. Andrew’s Church, 1601 Mary Dr., Pleasant Hill. July 27 - Root Beer Float Happy Hour 1pm. Enjoy FREE root beer floats on a hot summer afternoon! Please RSVP at 798-8788 so we can get an accurate count for floats! Rodgers Smith Park, Gregory Ln., Pleasant Hill.
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Champions!
The Nor Cal Shockers 16U softball team won the ASA Davis Fast Pitch Tournament June 9-10. During Saturday’s pool play they had three comefrom-behind 1-run wins to secure the number one seed going into Sunday’s elimination round. They dispatched their first two opponents Sunday 5-2 and 6-4, but pesky Napa battled all seven innings in the championship game, tying it up 2-2 with two outs in the bottom of the 7th, forcing an international tie breaker (with each team starting their at bat with a runner at 2nd base). The Shockers pushed 2 across in the eighth inning to
go up 4-2 to secure the victory performing a clean 6-0 sweep over the weekend. Established in Martinez in 1996, the NorCal Shockers are a registered 501(c)3 organization that offers girls from ages eight to eighteen an opportunity to pursue their athletic and educational dreams. Through national competitions sanctioned by the Amateur Softball Association, Premier Girls Fastpitch, Triple Crown Sports, and other governing bodies, the girls learn commitment, dedication, teamwork and sportsmanship, while developing skills and character traits to prepare them for high school and college competition.
LtoR: Tailor Simpson, Isabel Sanchez, Madison Reidel, Raegan Ternes, Danni Humphrey, Jasmina Cross, Janae Adams, Kennedy Silay, Rayna Damacion, Chanler Powell, Jazz McIntosh, Mekenna Sanchez, Sam Spina and Amie Perkins. Not pictured are Maddie Monahan, Carley Johnson, Shelby Clemmons, Manager Patrick Monahan, Head Coach Matrin Soares, Assistant Coaches Brian Humphrey and Ron Cross. Submitted by Patrick Monahan.
CTK Volleyball
Christ the King 6th and 7th grade girls volleyball team earn third place in tournament.
Back Row: Coaches- Thom Martin, Elizabeth Murphy, David Hermelin Middle Row: Caitlin Logan, Kelly Ruff, Hailey Chimienti, Vanessa DalPiaz, Sarah Peterson, Abby Rogers, Isabel Hermelin Front Row: Julia Paulazzo, Kayla Loftus, Kelly Plant, Madison Ohrman, Brooklynn Martin. Submitted by Heidi Coad-Hermelin
July 2012
Dogs Beat Falcons By Al Boyce To open the second half of play, Bulldogs Now Two-for-Two in Series the Dogs’ Dino Del Fiorentino took the In the second annual Alhambra second-half kickoff back for an 80-yard versus College Park Alumni Football touchdown run. The two-point convergame, the Bulldogs prevailed once again sion was successful with alum Jake Boyce in full contact, tackle football on May 19. grabbing the pass. The Dogs scored once The game was started in 2011 as part of the two school’s fundraising efforts to help again on a fourth-and-long with a 50-yard touchdown pass from Wes Von Tonder to support their high school alma maters. Boyce for a 16-6 lead going into the fourth Equipment for the games was supquarter. plied for a small fee by Alumni Football USA. The company also supplied the game After several great plays by both teams, the Bulldogs put in a new quarterofficials and public address announcer. back, Manny Preciado. Midway through It addition, they will send a DVD of the game to each player. Alumni Football USA the quarter, Preciado rolled-out to his left is very experienced with this type of fund- and a threw a 40-yard pass to Boyce, who raiser, as they have run hundreds of games was in traffic between two Falcon defenders when he leaped up for the completion throughout the country. and took it into the end zone from the During these tough economic times, Falcons’ 10 yard line. funding for sports and donations have The Dogs then faked the PAT, with dropped, and the boosters are always Del Fiorentino taking the snap from looking for new ways to cover the evercenter and rushing in for the two-point widening gap of cost for school sports. conversion, making the score 24-6 BullFundraising alumni games have been dogs. The Falcons scored once again and gaining momentum throughout the naadded a two-point conversion to make the tion. final 24-14. The football game last year saw twenty-six players from both Alhambra and The Falcon’s onside kick was recovered by Jeff Partain. The Bulldog’s offense College Park suited up. The Bulldogs won ran out the remaining five minutes of play that first game 14-6. This year, five players returned from the 2011 Alhambra team. In with a sustained ground attack to secure all, Alhambra was able to suit up 15 players. the victory. Other key alumni for Alhambra inCollege Park, looking to avenge their loss cluded Abel Conteras, Anthony Pimentel, from last year, suited up 31 players. Geno Rambel, Jacob Johnson, Dominc The Falcons jumped out to an early lead on their first drive and scored a quick Rico, Keifer Plummer, Bob Butler and “Big” Al Boyce. Boyce, a 1976 alum, was six, but their two-point conversion atthe oldest player on the field. tempt was stopped short of the goal line. The 2013 game will be played in May After a safety was called on the Falcons in and will shift to a night game with a 7:00 the second quarter, the score at halftime pm start. was Falcons 6, Bulldogs 2.
July 2012
High Praise for AHS Star Praise for Adesida from the Alhambra girls track and field team for winning both the discus and shot put events at the North Coast Section (NCS) Tri-Valley Championships held in Livermore in mid-May. Adesida unleashed a throw of 41 feet, 3 inches in the shot put and 140 feet, 9 inches in the discus to win both events easily. The next week, at the NCS Meet of Champions, Adesida was tops again in the
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HOME TEAM
By Chuck Nan discus throw with a heave of 141 feet even. to the 2012 WCC All-Academic Team. This was tenth best in the state and qualiThe big left-hander had a 3.39 GPA in fied her for the CIF State Meet in Clovis. Business Administration. Waterman is a The senior also took sixth in the shot put. 2009 graduate of Alhambra. Her distance in the discus was a personal Waterman tied San Francisco’s singleand school best. season record with seven saves in 2012. The 6-5, 230-lb. reliever was dominant in Falcon Netters his third season on the hilltop, going 4-3 The College Park High boys’ volleywith a 2.36 ERA in 27 appearances. Waterball team outlasted visiting San Ramon man struck out 40 and walked just 12 in Valley to pick up a 3-2 win (25-27, 27-25, 45 2/3 innings pitched. 25-15, 17-25, 15-13) in the NCS Division While the Martinez native served priI quarterfinal on May 18. Nelson Fisher led the Falcons with 43 assists, 6 digs and 2 marily as the Dons’ closer throughout the year, he finished the season with consecukills. Bo Hunter also had 16 kills, 7 blocks tive 6-inning and 5 2/3-inning performand 9 digs in the victory. No. 4 seed CP ances. Waterman came out of the bullpen then advanced to play No. 1 De La Salle in in the third inning against Pepperdine on the semi-finals and fell 3-0. The Falcons May 6 and tossed 6.0 innings of two-run were a perfect 12-0 in DVAL and 22-8 for ball, allowing just four hits. On May 12 the season. against Santa Clara, Waterman went 5.2 First Title Since 1994 innings and allowed just two runs on four Coach Matt Lisle and the College hits again. Park baseball team celebrated their first Just days later, Waterman was selected outright league title since 1994. The Falby the Washington Nationals in the 2012 cons clinched by beating visiting Northgate 2-0 on May 15. Freshman Joe DeMers Major League Baseball Draft. Waterman was chosen in the 13th-round (414th was superb as he tossed a one-hit shutout overall). On June 11, he signed a contract with eight strikeouts in the victory. CP and will now report to Auburn, New York finished 11-1 in the DVAL. The Falcons for his first professional experience. The earned the No. 5 seed in the NCS Division “Doubledays” are in the Single-A New II playoffs. There they handled Maria CarYork-Penn league. rillo and Newark Memorial. The Falcons then faced eventual champion (three-time) Top Frosh Sydney Babiak of Martinez was Campolindo and fell short. The Falcons named the 2011-12 Female Freshman finished 20-7 overall with DeMers sportAthlete of the Year for Bentley School of ing a 9-2 record. Lafayette. Babiak, a golfer, was also named Dandy Don All-Academic and second-team all-league and helped her Drafted school to the Bay Counties League title. Junior pitcher Elliott Waterman was Lady Diamond Dogs one of four members of the University of The Alhambra girls’ softball team had San Francisco baseball team to be named
grand plans for their postseason run in the NCS playoffs. After a dominant regular season, the Lady Bulldogs rolled-over Casa Grande and Arroyo. They then had a rematch with Petaluma, a school they had defeated one month prior. This time, it was the Trojans who took the hard-fought one-run victory. The Dogs finished 22-5 overall. Sophomore Kylie Perez earned league MVP for the second-straight season. She batted .568 with 15 home runs. Fellow sophomore Erin Enke was named the circuit’s top pitcher. Sergi Is Tops College park wrestler Brian Sergi was named the 2012 Male Athlete-of-the-Year by the Contra Costa Times. The senior grappler won the state championship in the 138-pound class. First, Sergi captured the DVAL title. He then went to the NCS meet where he won five consecutive matches to claim the crown. Sergi then advanced to the state meet ranked third in the state by The California Wrestler. There he won his first three matches in convincing fashion to set up a semifinal match against Natrelle Demison of Bakersfield, who was ranked No. 2. Demison had eliminated Sergi in the 2011 event. The match went into overtime, where Sergi scored first in a 7-4 “sudden victory” to advance to the championship. Sergi put the final punctuation on his prep career with a hard-fought 4-3 over Shayne Tucker, ranked No. 1. Tucker had previously beaten Sergi 7-2 in an earlier season tournament.
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Xtreme Stands Out
PHMSA Xtreme U-10 Girl’s Select soccer team won their third consecutive tournament at Davis World Cup over Memorial Day weekend. As reported earlier, Xtreme took first at the Comstock Shootout in Carson City, NV in April and were the victors at the Concord Cup tournament May 19-20. At Davis World Cup, exciting goals were scored by Kelly Hunyada and Bella Puljiz, and multiple goals were scored by Alyssa Walker, Julia Betti and Rylee McCormick. Xtreme outscored their opponents 36-1 over the three-day, six-game tournament. Eight of the nine players scored at least one goal. Strong defense was provided by Samantha Monroe, Chloe Taylor and Katie Foerste and the stellar goalkeeping of Arianna Safarians. Xtreme ended their season with 27 wins, 4 ties and 4 losses. They scored 150 goals & had 19 shutouts.
July 2012
Fridays on the Main Downtown Martinez
Every Friday June-Aug • 6pm to 8pm Cars, Trucks, Bikes and Live Music! FREE! Restaurants Are Open for Dinner!
Music schedule subject to change. No Entry Fee All vehicle types welcome
MainStreetMartinez.org 925.228.3577
Back Row L-R Coach Paul Betti, Kelly Hunyada, Coach Armin Safarians, Katie Foerste, Alyssa Walker, Samantha Monroe, Coach Tom Monroe, Julia Betti. Front Row L-R Arianna Safarians, Bella Puljiz, Chloe Taylor, Rylee McCormick. Flag bearers: James Hunyada and Chase McCormick Submitted by Stacy Monroe.
Spring 2012 All-League COLLEGE PARK Baseball Most Valuable Pitcher: Joe DeMers (9) First Team: Anthony Baleto (11), Dominic Bilotti (12), Luke Van Holten (12) and Athan Koutsoubinas (12) Second Team: Jeffrey Mitchell (9) and Jimmy Torres (12) Honorable Mention: Tommy Goonan (12) and Jake Harr (12) Lacrosse Most Valuable Player: Jakob Ternes (12) First Team: Brett Bechter (12) Second Team: Jake Gonzalez (11), Jeff Smitherns (11) and Miles Wood (11) Honorable Mention: Jack Diggs (9), Nevada Huie (11) and Brian McWaters (11) Softball First Team: Laurel Poff (10), Kierra Willis (11) and Kelsey Weise (10) Second Team: Natalie Persson (10) and Gina DeLuca (12) Honorable Mention: Maddie Monahan (11), Tailor Simpson (10) and Nicole Hughes (9) Boys Tennis First Team: Eric Lofquist (12) and Maxsim Tsukanov (9) Girls Track & Field First Team: Kendall Stuscavage (11) 400m & 800m Second Team: Kendall Stuscavage(11) 1600m, Amanda Baker (12) 400m, Katrina Guytingco (9) 300H, and Olivia Ray (10) PV Honorable Mention: Olivia Ray (10) 400m, Emma Arlen (10) 800m and Claire Cox (9) HJ Boys Track & Field First Team: Parker Marson(10) 1600m, Hiroki Butterfield (12) 300H, Max Assael (10) HJ and Dmitriy Petrovykh (11) TJ Second Team: Hiroki Butterfield (12) 400m, Joshua Levy (11) TJ and Steven O’Brien (10) Discus Honorable Mention: Soroush Aboutalebi (12) 200m, Hiroki Butterfield
(12) TJ and Steven O’Brien (10) SP Boys Volleyball Co-Most Valuables Players: Bo Hunter (12) and Nelson Fisher (11) First Team: Alex Kalustian (11), Charles Liu (11) and Nick Horton (11) Second Team: Devin Humm (11) and Noah Fisher (9) Honorable Mention: Dipen Patel (12) Boys Golf Co-Most Valuables Players: Carlos Mena (12) and Austin Collier (12) First Team: Ramon Alejo (12), Dimitri Salido (10) and Pat Thompson (12) Second Team: Andy Tripp (11) and Max Creamer (11) Honorable Mention: Rhyan Hughes (12) ALHAMBRA Baseball First Team: Anthony Taliaferro (11) Honorable Mention: Jordan Hill (12) Gold Glove: Michael Hewitson (122) Boys Lacrosse First Team: Andrew Crosno (12) Honorable Mention: Vincent Martinez (12) Softball Most Valuable Player: Kylee Perez (10) Most Valuable Pitcher: Erin Enke (10) First Team: Shannon Devries (12), Nicole Curry (10), Hailey Sparacino (10) and Bella Gonsalves (11) Second Team: Courtney Kelly (9) and K.K. Boyd (10) Honorable Mention: Jaz McIntosh (11) and Shelby Clemons (9) Boys Track & Field First Team: Eric Richard (12) LJ, 100m Girls Track & Field First Team: Praise Adesida (12) SP, Discus Honorable Mention: Melissa Grube (12) 100m H Boys Volleyball Second Team: Marcus Lau (11) Honorable Mention: Brandon Dugan (11)
Downtown Martinez
ghost walk Take the 1-1/2 hour guided walking tour through Historic Downtown Martinez to discover the hidden past, little known facts and tales of days-gone-by. Tours conducted by Central Valley Paranormal www.cvparanormal.com Spirits Main Street Martinez, Inc.
4th & 5th Fridays each month, 8:00pm. $25 per person. Tour starts at Main Street Martinez, 649 Main St. Suite 106. For more information visit www.MainStreetMartinez.org or call (925) 228-3577
Space is limited, advanced ticket purchase recommended. No children under 12 years allowed. Ages 12-17 years must be accompanied by an adult. Bring a flashlight, wear comfortable shoes.
Martinez Peddlers Faire Antiques & Collectibles | Arts & Crafts Show
Sat., August 4th, 8am-4pm
Downtown Martinez Featuring over 100 booths along Main St. & Ferry St.
in downtown Martinez. John Humphries, collectibles author, radio and tv host, will evaluate your treasures (up to 3 carry-in items) for a $5 donation to the Martinez Historical Society. At Main St. & Ferry St. - All Day!
MainStreetMartinez.org • 925.228.3577 Shell Oil Products US Martinez Refinery
July 2012
www.ourcommunityfocus.com
The Gift of Mobility
Neil Donoghue, his wife Pam and children lived for eight years in Chad, Africa. After seeing disabled Chadians and Darfur refugees having to crawl in the dirt to get around, Neil asked about the availability of wheelchairs, but the lack of any social programs made them impossible. Neil repaired “American” style wheelchairs to start, but without any paved roads or sidewalks in Chad, the chairs just fell over. Instead, he began to fabricate hand-crank, tricyclestyle wheelchairs from pipe and used bicycle parts. After fabricating the first sixty, Personal Energy Transportation (PET) contacted him and sent containers of partially assembled hand-crank wheelchairs. Now 460 disabled individuals have mobility. PET started twenty years ago in Missouri and has sent over 27,000 chairs to the poorest countries without charge to the recipient. Their mission statement is: PET International seeks to reflect the love of Jesus Christ by bringing the gift of mobility and dignity to those in developing countries who are unable to walk. Designed for the remotest parts of the world, PET chairs have foam-filled tires, a sturdy frame, hand-crank system, and can be maintained by the recipients. Each PET is manufactured by volunteers in the USA and is given free of charge to the disabled in the poorest of developing countries. The chairs give mobility to children and adults who cannot use their legs, but still have use of their arms and hands due to polio, birth defects, wars, landmines, accidents, leprosy, etc.
Neil and Pam saw the difference mobility made to disabled individuals after receiving PET chairs; they could be a part of the community again, go to school, start a business, or simply get around. One little boy wanted a wheelchair because, with mobility, he could finally go to school. Neil and his family returned to Rio Vista in December 2011. Neil, Peter Mulders - a neighbor of Neil’s sister, Mary - and a host of other excited volunteers are joining forces to become the California PET affiliate shop. The PETs will initially be built for Africa, and when the first container of two hundred are finished, Neil and other volunteers will travel to the destination country to help with distribution. Recently, Mary contacted Neil for a more local matter. Mulders runs half-marathons and 5K runs with his non-verbal, autistic son, Will (Team Willpower). The problem is Will is outgrowing his jogging stroller. Neil’s shop will fabricate a new jogger for Peter and Will to use in their daily runs and races. Will is an inspiration to everyone who knows him, and Team Willpower’s next run will be the 5K Firecracker in Pleasant Hill on July 4. Look for “PET Rio Vista, Ca” in Pleasant Hill’s Fourth of July parade. For more information, volunteering or donations on PET, look on Facebook under “Wheelchairs for the Least of These,” and check out Personal Energy Transportation at www. petinternational.org.
LtoR: Neil Donoghue (missionary), John Bento (president of Lions Club Rio Vista), Peter Mulders (Martinez resident and part of team Willpower) and Kirby Goering (director of PET Kansas) pose after a twoday PET wheelchair-building seminar in Kansas.
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Inaugural Science Class By Jaki Jones included the use of nanobot technology, to A Plaque Prevention Pill, Memory a Pocket MD, an at-home, portable blood Hat and Vital Chip were just some of the analysis devise that can diagnose sympideas created by students in teacher Janet Spencer’s Principles of Biomedical Sciences toms in minutes and provide treatment options. class at College Park this year. “Principles of Biomedical Sciences is The class was part of Project Lead the the first class in a four-part series, and this Way, a hands-on program involving an inwas the first year we offered the class. I will novative science, technology, engineering, have a section of Human Body Systems, and mathematics (STEM) education curriculum and including real-world problem the second course, next year. Each course has units that involve biotechnology, chemsolving. istry, microbiology and physiology. My vi The class, consisting mostly of juniors sion for the students is to offer new science and seniors, began the year with the elective courses that provide meaningful observation of a “dead body” played by laboratory exercises that fit with health College and Career Advisor Sheila Welsh. The students first made assumptions about career themes,” continued Spencer. The funding for the class and materiher death, then later analyzed her auals comes from California SB70 fundtopsy report and concluded what diseases ing. Spencer also works under a grant and health conditions led to her demise. supervised by April Treece, Director of Throughout the year, the class looked at the Contra Costa Economic Partnerthe health issues the body indicated, such ship, and Joanne Durkee, Director of Adult as diabetes, heart conditions and bacterial and viral diseases. “The activities and labo- Education in the MDUSD. Spencer will be attending her second ratory exercises are all based on real world session of training this summer, going applications. For example, they performed through an intensive nine months of curheart rate, blood pressure monitoring riculum in nine days. and EKG tests on each other,” explained The enthusiasm for the Principles of Spencer. Biomedical Science class was far reaching. As a culminating project, students “The class has caused our students to reworked in groups to create their intervenintroduce Health Occupations Students of tion to a modern medical disorder. The America (HOSA) as a club next year. That project began in April and concluded organization gives them invaluable leaderwith writing virtual grants to fund their ship opportunities and opens the door projects. Students delivered a Powerpoint to programs leading to health careers,” presentation in front of the class and a remarked Spencer. A positive outcome panel of judges. Medical solutions ranged from a monthly Plaque Prevention Pill that indeed.
Biomedical period 2 competition winners from LtoR: Back Row, Jeff Krutilla, Brett Bechter, Dipen Patel. Front Row: Natalie Rhoades, Lauren Meneghetti, Jena Gonzalez, Vincent Nyugen. Not pictured: Zahra Hamidi. Period 4 competition winners, not pictured, were Tyler Newhouse, Gillian Henry, Tom Hester and Abbey Mulligan. Their intervention was called the Vital Chip.
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Page 20
July 2012
MARTINEZ HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Rankin Park...Then and Now
Thank you to the Martinez Museum and Kristin Henderson for providing material for this article. With the recent ribbon cutting of the “newest” Rankin Park, we thought we’d share some of its history and photos of the earlier versions. Over the years, Rankin Park has undergone major renovations, giving each generation a backdrop for childhood memories and providing Martinez residents with settings for family picnics, weddings, and special events. Rankin Park is named after James Rankin, who came to this country from Scotland when he was 17 years old. A multi-talented man, he was a coal miner, storekeeper, and landowner in Martinez. He planted olive trees on part of his property, and many of these can still be seen on the hillside above the park. Rankin was elected sheriff in 1884 and served on the board of directors. Later he became the president of the Bank of Martinez from 1893 until his death in 1901. In 1937, Rankin Park was created
By Gay Gerlack the Three Little Pig’s houses. The Kiwanis with the purchase of the James Rankin property above Talbart Street for $12,000. Club of Martinez aided with the acquisition of materials for the playground, and Fashioned from an area that was overit was assembled by the high school weldgrown with brush and grass, the park ing classes. became one of the finest parks in the The softball field is named for A. Jostate. Everaldo P. Vanni was the director seph Tavan, whose philanthropy to the of public works and was instrumental in city resulted in many improvements, and building “Story Book Fairyland,” featurhe was a major donor in the purchase ing Humpty Dumpty, the Mayflower and
of the property. The other feature of the park is the completely rebuilt Rankin Park Aquatic Center. The original pool was designated as a living memorial to World War II veterans. With the completion of the Measure H renovations of the park, pool, and playing field, Rankin Park is, once again, one of the finest parks in the state.
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July 2012
Page 21
Recreation and Park Updates
Say good-bye to your average Music Camp! Are you ready for your child to have the week of his or her life? PopWay Music Camp provides a stage of fun for kids aged 8-12 to sing, dance and team-build while they improve their voice, stage presence and confidence. Students are introduced to basic vocal techniques, harmony, dance steps and choreography that will foster success and camaraderie. Our students will premier original “mashupsâ€? they help create! This is sure to be the most fun and creative week for them and their friends! Camp is held from 9am to noon at Village Music School with two sessions available. For more information or to register call (925) 682-0896 or visit www.pleasanthillrec.com. Summer is here‌ have you planned your summer BBQ? Time to start loading up on the charcoal and hotdogs‌. Pleasant Hill Recreation & Park District’s new picnic area, located on the Cleaveland Road side of Pleasant Hill Park, is quickly taking shape and will feature a new large prep table, BBQ and picnic tables. This new location has plenty of space plus close access to the pool and softball fields! If you are interested in finding out more on how to rent the new picnic site or any of the other picnic areas, please call (925) 682-0896. For weekly bond project updates as well as pictures from inside the buildings, visit www.pleasanthillrec.com and click on construction updates under the Bond Info tab. Looking For a Place to Hold Your Next Event?
The Pleasant Hill Recreation and Park District is now accepting 2013 rental applications for the new Senior Center and Teen Center. These brand new buildings will be the perfect venue for any event you plan! The Senior Center, set back from the street and located in a park setting, has many different room size options. From a small business meeting to a large wedding reception, all your needs are covered. Features include: a large commercial kitchen, raised platform in the multi-use room, overhead projectors with screens, beautiful pre-function area with skylights, large windows with a view of the park, plenty of parking, bocce courts and a horseshoe pit located within earshot. The Teen Center is much smaller than the Senior Center, but will provide a great space to hold a meeting, intimate gath-
New Senior Center main entry hall hosts many skylights, a great spacious pre function area.
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ering or your child’s birthday party. The main open room gives flexibility to your set up while the conference room provides privacy for meetings or presentations. Birthday party rentals will enjoy access to a pool table, foosball table and even the
sprayground with certain package deals. Complete rental information including pricing can be found by clicking on rentals under the locations tab at www. pleasanthillrec.com or calling the District Office at (925) 682-0896.
Read My Mind Book Reviews by Michael G. Harris, OD ogy books, philosophy books, and self-help Welcome to a new book review colbooks. (I need all the help I can get.) umn in your Community Focus. When I asked the publishers if they’d be interest I’m an avid reader of well-written ficed, they were most encouraging, so here it tion. I don’t particularly like trash novels. I goes. used to read every book written by James Quiet simply, I love books. I love to Patterson (who writes a new one every read. I learned to read before my fourth three months), Clive Cussler and Sue birthday and have been an avid reader Grafton, but I found them to be too forever since. As a six year-old, I started mulaic. Every one of those author’s books reading the morning paper at breakfast seems to follow the same pattern. I got and continue to do so every day. bored because I figured out “who done it� I read almost everything. I read sevafter the first chapters, so there are no sureral newspapers on a regular basis. (Of prises. That’s no fun. course, my favorite is the Community Fo- I love thrillers, mysteries, historical cus.) I subscribe to dozens of magazines, fiction, and science fiction, but I haven’t journals, and newsletters. I read junk found any great science fiction books mail and I must admit I read the Nationsince Isaac Asimov and A.C. Clark died. al Enquirer while waiting in the check I try to read most of the books on out line at the grocery store. Sometimes, the New York Times bestseller list. Rewhen I had nothing better to do, I would cent reads include Walter Isaacson’s bihang around Borders reading books. ography Steve Jobs, John Grisham’s latest They had really comfortable chairs! And novel, Calico Joe, and Jacqueline Kennedy: I didn’t have to buy the books after I read Historic Conversations on Life with John F. them. Do you think that’s why they went Kennedy. out of business? I currently have thirty-three books I’ve owned and read thousands of on hold at the Pleasant Hill Library, inbooks. Before the Internet, I was at the cluding Making a Difference by Sully Sullibrary reserving books so often that I lenberger, Madeleine Albright’s autobiogused to receive Christmas cards from the raphy Prague Winter, and Gillian Flynn’s librarians! Now I’m at the Pleasant Hill Gone Girl. Library on a weekly basis taking out and In the upcoming months, I’ll select returning books. the very best of what I’ve read for a book When I’m not reading a book, I’m review. I’ll also provide my list of “quick listening to an audio book. While travelpicks,� other books I highly recommend. ing, I read or listen to books on my iPad. And, I’ll even let you know what books I I often read several books at the same suggest you just skip. time. Well, I don’t exactly “read� them at I’d appreciate your feedback. I’d love the same time, but I’ve even been known to hear what you think of the books I reto read one book while simultaneously view and any recommendations you have listening to a different audio book. This for books I should read. drives my wife Dawn absolutely crazy! Reading is the best way for us to be entertained, educated, and enlightened. I So what kinds of books do I like to hope I can turn you and your family on to read? Just about everything. I especially some good books that do just that when love nonfiction, particularly history, biographies, politics, and sports. I read psychol- you “Read My Mind.�
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July 2012
Want To Be On Tour?
Gardens are now being sought to participate in the spring 2013 “Bringing Back the Natives Garden Tour,” which showcases pesticide-free, drought-tolerant gardens that provide habitat for wildlife and contain 60% or more native plants. The gardens featured in this tour will demonstrate that, from postage stamp-sized yards to large lots, beautiful California native plant gardens are possible for anyone. The goals of this free tour are to: • Provide Alameda and Contra Costa County residents with the opportunity to see first-hand a garden containing 60% or more native plants. • Illustrate that healthy, attractive gar-
dens can flourish with little water and without the use of synthetic chemicals. • Motivate residents to try gardening with native plants and use natural gardening techniques in their own gardens. Tour organizers are also seeking volunteers who will spend a morning or afternoon greeting participants and answering questions. More than 50 gardens located throughout Alameda and Contra Costa counties will be showcased on the tour, which will take place on Sunday, May 5, 2013. To volunteer, please complete the main tour registration form when registration opens in December 2012. To apply to have your garden on the tour, email Kathy Kramer at Kathy@
KathyKramerConsulting.net or call (510) 236-9558
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Page 23
P.H. Relay for Life
Hike For Life!
By May Hanecak On the weekend of May 19 and 20, is still fighting cancer. Sunday morning’s bedhead lap was also very enterPleasant Hill businesses and residents taining as the Starbucks’ booth kept came together to make a difference in everyone going around the clock. the 24-hour Relay For Life of Pleasant Hill at the PH Middle School track. In addition to the miles and miles of walking and socializing, there were With the endurance, commitment and booths with plenty of activities, live sore muscles of 54 teams, 411 particimusic and entertainment to feed the pants and over 30 businesses, more soul, and incredible meals to feed those than $65,900 was raised. The money tired bodies. The event is ideal for raised supports the American Cancer friends as well as families, with many Society (ACS) in its research, early depitching tents and camping overnight. tection, advocacy, education and relat Mark your calendar for the 2013 ed programs to fight cancer. Relay for Life of Pleasant Hill, which There were many unforgettable will take place on June 1 and 2. For moments at the event, from Saturday more information, log onto http:// morning’s inspirational survivors’ and www.relayforlife.org/pleasanthillca. caregivers’ lap to the afternoon’s up To volunteer for next year’s event, beat and fun conga line lap to the evening’s poignant lighting of the luminar- please contact Judi Richardson, 925ies, where each luminary represented a 957-9991 or go to relayforlifeph@aol. com. loved one who passed away from – or
By Karen Leffler, Hike Coordinator/Participant Is the Grand Canyon on your bucket list? Do you want to get in shape over the summer? How about enjoying nature and the great outdoors? Is your heart leading you to do something of service for people in need? If you answered YES to even one of these questions, Lazarex Cancer Foundation invites you to hear about a new Team For Life fundraising adventure called HIKE FOR LIFE-Conquer The Canyon®. It’s about life! Come Hike With Us! Open to all levels of ability from casual walkers to seasoned Patient Brittani Powell leads a happier life thanks hikers ages 18 to 80! Participants will preto Lazarex and Hike For Life. pare to hike at the Grand Canyon by taking but who are not yet done with their joura ten-week online training session and goney in life and refuse to give up. They help ing on local hikes led by experienced hike all patients, regardless of age, walk of life, leaders, all while fundraising on behalf of or type of cancer. The mother of Brittani end stage cancer patients who have been Powell, our Hike For Life VIP (Very Importold they have no more hope. We show you tant Person) says, “Because of Lazarex, my how! daughter progressed from having a giant Besides getting fit, your reward for cell tumor almost completely take over her training and fundraising is an expense paid body and her life to becoming a walking, four-day/three-night trip to the Grand Can- talking happy teenager.” Lazarex provided yon September 21-24, including a one- day financial assistance to defray the costs assoguided hike! Did you know that less than ciated with her participation in FDA clini1% of the millions of people that visit the cal trials. Grand Canyon ever step foot on a trail, and Training begins now. Space is limited. only 5% of that 1% ever step foot on a trail Do something good for your health and with a professional guide? You will have an celebrate life with us in the Grand Canyon opportunity to do both and experience the in September. Help build a bridge to hope, Grand Canyon in an extraordinary way. dignity and life for cancer patients and Lazarex Cancer Foundation provides their families. Contact Hike Coordinaresources for end stage cancer patients who tor Karen Leffler at 925-323-2996 or visit have been told they have no other options, www.lazarex.org
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www.ourcommunityfocus.com
July 2012
In the Mix with Sin Silver A few months ago, some friends and I were out on the town and we decided to get some pizza over at Rocco’s in Walnut Creek. I especially love going there because of the music on Saturday nights. It was the best decision I have made in a long time. In walked this young girl with a keyboard; she set up in about twenty minutes, sat down and proceeded to blow the roof off the place! When Irish singer Sin Silver started playing, the usually boisterous crowd fell silent and was thoroughly entertained. She sang everything from Journey, Van Morrison, and Billy Joel to some traditional Irish tunes. Needless to say, I became a fan from the first note. Being the shy person I am, I went over, introduced myself and asked her if she would like to be a part of a benefit I was putting on (which means FREE, NO PAY, and from someone she didn’t even know). Without hesitation, she accepted. I’m thinking to myself, no one could be this talented and nice (did I mention she did not know me?) Well, long story short, she played an original song, had a few in tears, and instantly made a roomful of new fans. Sin Silver is “The Real Deal”! She is an amazing singer songwriter and an awesome human being, so it was time to put her in the Focus! Silver says she was only four years old when she started playing piano and was taught by her concert pianist mother. (She also plays violin.) She was born
By Paul Cotruvo • Peasant and the Pear in Danville on “Going to California” by Led Zeppelin. Sunday 7/1 and 7/29, 11am - 2pm. California is where I found my voice. • Bridges in Danville on Wednesday And even though so much music has 7/25, 5:30pm - 9pm passed through my fingers, there’s still • The Peasant’s Courtyard in Alamo on an ‘aching in my heart’....a longing if you Saturday, 7/28, 6 – 9pm will, for something more.” Sin Silver will appear with her band, I can’t say this enough, get out there “Sin Silver and the Avenue,” at Armanand support local music, and get out there and support Sin Silver; you will not do’s in Martinez on Thursday, August 9, 8- 10pm. Like Sin Silver and the Avenue be disappointed. on Facebook. Music available at www. Sin Silver’s solo schedule is: sinsilverandtheavenue.com and on • Petar’s lounge in Lafayette every TuesSin Silver in England to Irish parents, moved to iTunes. day night, 7:30 - 10:00pm (except on 7/9 Ireland when she was two, and after she Quote of the month: or 7/17). visited the United States at age nine, she • Armando’s in Martinez every 1st Friday “The most beautiful music of all is the vowed to come back and did so after getof the month for Happy Hour and a Half, music of what happens.” ting a special P3 visa to play music. – Irish Proverb 4:30 - 6:00pm. When asked about her musical heroes, Silver responded: “Bob Dylan – July 8: Hopeful Romantics, Armando’s, 707 Marina Vista, Martinez, 3pm incomparable; Neil Young - a force of naJuly 8: Petty Theft, Summer by the Lake Series, Pleasant Hill City Hall, Gregory & Cleveland, 6pm ture; Sinéad O’Connor - love her or hate July 14: Lumberyard, Dallimonti’s, 1932 Oak Park Blvd, Pleasant Hill, 9:30pm her, she always speaks her truth; David July 21 – 23: Annual Pleasant Hill Blues and Brews, featuring Lydia Pense and Cold Blood, The Chris Cain Band, Tip of the Top, Jinx Jones and the Kingtones, and Blue Conspiracy, Bowie - charismatic, chameleon like; Jack Pleasant Hill Park, Gregory and Cleveland, 12pm White - brilliant and, in my mind, hasn’t July 21: Annie Sampson, Armando’s, 707 Marina Vista, Martinez, 8pm reached his peak; Bruce Springsteen - the July 24: Sin Silver, Petar’s Pub and Restaurant, 32 Lafayette Circle, Lafayette ,7:30pm Boss!! And, of course, Townes Van Zandt -- one of my all-time greatest heroes – under-appreciated genius.” Silver says she is inspired to write a song when “a melody won’t leave me alone. I go to the piano…the music comes first and then the lyrics.” She regards one of her most memorable performances to be at a Happy Hour and a Half at Armando’s in Martinez where “The music flowed like wine, the crowd was perfect and there was no script.” As always, I asked my last interview question, “If you were a song, what would you be and why?” to which Silver answered:
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$30 Birthday Certificate Join our new Birthday Club and receive a $30 Birthday Certificate to spend at Kobe Japan Restaurant during the month of your birthday. You will also receive special offers and information about the latest happenings in our monthly newsletter. Please go to our website
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MOLINO’S RAVIOLI
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Regular Store Hours Mon- Sat 9am - 5:30pm • Sunday 10 - 5 2150 Pleasant Hill Road., 925.934.7075
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For complete menu visit, www. molinosravioli.net
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Page 26
July 2012
Joints Love to Move By Tonya Marie Amos, Aspire Pilates are beginning to talk to you. In other was never turned words, your joints are getting stuck in off, or you don’t one position for multiple hours, and want to climb that isn’t very healthy. If you can’t get over your sleeping up to stretch because the seat belt sign neighbor, you can use your uncomfortable seat as your arena to exBy Esther Catalya, MD ercise. trition that helps fight fatigue. Eating the Cancer related Although you may be stuck in right foods and getting plenty of fluids can fatigue can be a your seat, you can still get your cirgive added energy. symptom of your culation going to minimize joint • Delegate your needs by asking friends and cancer or a side efswelling and increase your comfort. family members for help with daily chores. fect of your cancer Think about the individual joints of • Everyone has their own way of relaxing. treatment. Normal your body, then gently mobilize them Reading, needlework, listening to music or day-to-day activione by one. Starting with your feet, creating small art projects tend to be relaxties can be draining, squeeze, then spread your toes several ing activities. and sleep may only provide a short reserve times. Circle your ankles a few times, • Consult your physician on what kind of of energy. Fatigue resonates to every part then reverse the direction. Gently bend exercise you are able to do such as walkof us, our physical, mental and emotional and straighten your legs under the seat ing, yoga, swimming or other activities. being. Seventy to one hundred percent of in front of you and contract the musExercising daily not only helps lower blood cancer patients experience fatigue during cles of the thigh. For a great lower back pressure but also helps improve appetite, treatment or post treatment. This lack of and hip release, gently circle your pelsleep and mood. energy causes a change in daily activities, vis as if you are stirring chocolate pud Each person’s fatigue is unique; it is hobbies, work and relationships. ding with your hips. Do the same stirimportant to talk to your doctor about There are things that you can do to what treatment may work best for you. help manage your symptoms: Keep a ‘Fatigue Diary’ to record your daily • Talk to your health care provider about routine and fatigue level on a scale of 0-10. managing symptoms. By keeping track of your diet, exercise and • Plan rest breaks in your day, but avoid daily activities, you may be able to learn long naps late in the day so you are able to 1029 Arnold Dr. Suite 9 Martinez, CA 94553 what works best to improve your energy sleep well at night. level. • Even when you are tired, allow friends Dr. Esther Catalya is a Medical Onto visit. Human connection is very imporask about our cologist and Hematologist with Diablo tant in battling depression, which is closely Valley Oncology, located at the California linked to fatigue. Enjoying the uplifting NEW PATIENT Cancer and Research Institute in Pleasant spirit of a friend also gives you more enSPECIALS! Hill. 925-677-5041 or www.DiabloValergy. Most insurances accepted. • Meet with a dietitian to help establish nu- leyOncology.md
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ring motion with your torso, making several circles in each direction. Shrug your shoulders a few times then circle them forward, up, then backwards. Moving on to the neck, very gently roll your head forward then side to side in a semi circle. Now just as you’ve done with your feet, bend and straighten your fingers, roll your wrists in circles, then bend and straighten your elbows. Doing these simple mobility exercises on a plane may not have you ready to run a marathon on landing, but it will at least cut down on the swelling and pain that comes from hours of sitting. Remember to drink lots of water to minimize dehydration, which also helps to keep your joints happy. Your newly found skills to survive “extra leg room” will help you hit the ground running and ready to enjoy your travel adventures. For more information, please call (925) 680-4400 or go to www.AspirePilatesCenter.com
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Page 27
THE GARDEN
July Brings Peak Sweetness Taste anticipation hits hard in July. Memories from my childhood: walking on the canal trail picking blackberries, and eating Satsuma plums from my mom’s tree with juice dripping down my arms. These images catapult into my mind from nowhere and jolt my taste buds into procure-and-eat mode. Going to the recreation center, manically riding bikes, playing ping pong, and having picnics on the grass at the pool with bologna sandwiches, strawberries, and ice cold Shasta root beer was basically summertime for us children growing up in Pleasant Hill. You have got to love summer in the Diablo Valley: soaring mercury during the day and the natural “air conditioner” of fog rolling in from the coast at night make for some amazing evenings. Dining al fresco on the patio and grilling an amazing bounty of choices for dinners
By Lesley Stiles and parties is almost insistent in our crisps or free form tarts and garnish summer DNA. Nice daytime heat forcwith homemade ice cream or honey es tomato vines to get thick and sturdy, sweetened crème fraiche. which allows for weighty, luscious fruit Do a stone fruit tasting for yourto develop and hold steady until ripe. self, friend, family or party, and notice Melons are starting to wake up and bask nuances of each fruit as you compare in the sunlight, getting sweeter by the flavors and sugar contents side by side. second and promising a nice breakfast We do this in our garden classes and or two in the near future. Douse cubes kids are amazed at the differences beof melon in plain, creamy yogurt and tween the white or yellow variety and sprinkle with nuts and blueberries. the differences in all the pluots or apri Whether or not you are growing ums. Even the same varieties of stone it, corn is showing up in farmers’ marfruits may taste surprisingly different kets trucked in from Brentwood and from different growers, and it is an enthe San Joaquin Valley. And it is sweet tertaining and interesting activity for this year. Cut off the cob and use raw in all involved. Stone fruits are also marsalads or sauté it with olive oil or butter velously tasty when grilled. Cut in half, and chopped fresh tarragon. July farmremove pit and brush all surfaces lightly ers’ markets bring peak sweetness in the with olive oil. Place on hot grill for a few form of Donut peaches, white nectarminutes. Use meltingly tender slices in ines and O’Henry peaches, to name a salads or topped with whipped cream. few. Filled to capacity with juice, these Terrifically fun summer activifruits are amazing to devour with closed ties are endless in our valley. Whether eyes -- truly miracles of nature. Cut into you’re swimming in lakes and pools, fruit salads or make into simple fruit
fishing, hiking, walking, boating, flying kites at the marina, exploring the Black Diamond mines, or camping out on Mt. Diablo or Briones, we have cheap or free local fun for the taking. Get outside and be smart about it with sunscreen, lots of water and an eye on the clock – essentials to having a fabulous experience in this amazing place we call home. Breathe deeply and enjoy life. PS…We have a new Farmers’ Market opening. The market will be on Wednesdays from 11am to 6 pm at the Pleasant Hill/Contra Costa Center BART Station. This market looks to be starting up on July 11, just in time for everything summer! 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.
Cucumber, Corn, Feta & Tomato Salad
Ingredients:
2 medium sized cucumbers, peeled, seeded and sliced 2 pounds of heirloom tomatoes cut up 2 ears of fresh corn cut off the cob ½ bunch fresh basil, chopped ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
2 cloves of fresh garlic, peeled and chopped Juice and zest of 1 orange 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil 2 tablespoons of seasoned rice vinegar Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
Directions:
Toss all ingredients together in a bowl, season w/ salt and pepper and serve immediately. Serves 4 to 6.
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Page 28
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July 2012
Snake Season Summer is snake season. Reptiles need the heat of summer to warm themselves so they can hunt and digest food. We know that snakes are not everyone’s favorite animals, but snakes do us a great service by helping control rodent
By Susan Heckly, Lindsay Wildlife Museum populations. The wildlife hospital receives to 5’ -- but usually shorter. Newly hatched about thirty snakes every year. The comgopher snakes are about 20” long. When mon reasons they are brought to us are threatened, a gopher snake will inflate they have been tangled in bird netting, its body, flatten its head into a triangular caught by cats, or run over by cars, bicycles shape, hiss loudly and quickly shake its or lawn mowers. tail to look and sound like a rattlesnake. The most common snakes in our They eat small mammals and especially area are gopher snakes. They are tan with like gophers, so are very beneficial for our dark chocolate blotches along the back. gardens. Gopher snakes are long -- sometimes up Rattlesnakes are also common. Their coloration and markings are somewhat similar to gopher snakes, which can cause some confusion. Rattlesnakes are the venturers themselves who make the heavy-bodied and can grow to over 4,’ but choices of what activities the Crew will do. closer to 3’ is more common. Newborn Young adults involved in Venturing will rattlesnakes are about 10” long. They don’t acquire skills in the areas of high adventure have rattles on their tails (that comes as camping, wilderness first aid, search & they molt and grow), so the tip of the tail is rescue, and arts and hobbies. In addition, rounded instead of pointed. they will experience positive leadership Generally shy and not aggressive, from adult and youth leaders and be given western rattlesnakes strike when threatopportunities to take on leadership roles. ened or deliberately provoked, but given Beginning July 12, Crew 1351 will room they will retreat. If you encounter meet Thursday evenings at 7:30pm in the a rattlesnake, the best thing to do is stop, VFW Hall on the corner of Court St. and back away slowly and leave the area. Most Ward St. in downtown Martinez. Gil Patton has been recruited to serve as the Crew Adviser. Mr. Patton brings many years of experience to the program. Anyone interested should contact the Crew at crew1351@gmail.com or stop by the July 12 meeting. Please pass this information along to any youth who may be interested in participating and to any adult who would like to help guide these young men and women in the adventure of life. For more information on Venturing go to: http:// www.bsa-mdsc.org/about-scouting/venturing.
High Adventure Crew
Martinez has a new high adventure Venture Crew sponsored by the VFW Post 1351. Crew 1351 joins Troop 1351 and Pack 1351 in providing the scouting experience to the youth of Martinez. Venturing is a young adult development program of the Boy Scouts of America designed for young men and women ages 14 through 20 (including age 13 if eighth grade has been completed). Venturing provides positive experiences that help young people as they mature and prepare to become responsible, caring adults. Venturing is based on a unique and dynamic relationship between youth, adult leaders, and organizations within communities. Local community organizations establish a Venturing crew by matching their people and program resources to the interests of young people in the community. The result is a program with exciting and meaningful activities that help youth pursue special interests, develop leadership skills, and grow to become good citizens. Crew 1351 is a youth-lead, adult-supported program, which means that while the program requires adult supervision, it is
snakebites occur when a rattlesnake is handled or accidentally touched by someone walking or climbing. When outdoors, stay on well-used trails and wear boots and long pants. Avoid tall grass and heavy underbrush where snakes may hide during the day. If a rattlesnake bites you, stay calm and call 911 to get emergency care as fast as possible. Don’t try to treat it yourself— no sucking out the venom, cutting “x”s over the bite site, no tourniquet, no ice. Just sit quietly with the affected area immobilized. Remove rings or watches that would constrict swelling. How can you tell the difference between a gopher snake and a rattlesnake? The biggest difference is their tails—gopher snake tails are pointed and rattlesnake tails have rattles. If the rattles are missing for some reason, or the snake is newborn, the tail will be blunt—compare a freshly sharpened pencil to a very dull one. For more information about Lindsay Wildlife Museum and ways you can help wildlife, visit www.wildlife-museum.org.
SOAR LIKE A
HAWK
Experience new interactive exhibits, behind-the-scenes programs and live wild animals! Visit Wednesday–Friday noon–5pm and weekends 10am–5pm. Go to www.wildlife-museum.org to learn more.
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30
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July 2012
Calendar
events Martinez Farmers’ Market Now through Oct. 25 - Thursdays, 10am-2pm , Court St., between Main & Escobar St. Year Round - Sundays, 10am-2pm , Main St. between Castro & Ferry St. Buy local produce and visit local shops and restaurants too! Pleasant Hill Farmers’ Market Saturdays through November 17. 9am to 1pm. Downtown Pleasant Hill http://www.pcfma.com/ Foster A Dream Backpack Drive - Hundreds of foster children need your help to start their school year off just like their peers with a NEW backpack and school supplies. Making a difference is as easy as 1-2-3. 1) Donate a new backpack filled with school supplies, 2) Hold a backpack drive, or 3) Make a donation. Visit http://www.fosteradream.org/ to download a supply list or to make a donation. 7/4 - 4th of July Hometown Parade & Celebration - 8am-11:30am Downtown Martinez: Flag Raising Ceremony, 8am, Veterans Memorial Building, 930 Ward St. Pancake
Free!
Breakfast 8am-10am, Roxx on Main, 627 Main St. Parade 10am. www.mainstreetmartinez.org. (925) 228-3577 7/4 – It’s a Grand Ole’ Flag 4th of July – Pleasant Hill. The celebration begins at 7:45am with a 100-yard dash for kids 7 & under, 8am Firecracker 5K Fun Run, 9:30am Parade, 10:30am-1:30pm Party in the Park, 6pm gates open to College Park for the 9:20pm Fireworks! 7/6 – Plaza Concert and Wine Walk. 5:308:30pm Downtown Pleasant Hill. Tickets available at http://julywinewalk.eventbrite. com/ or (925) 687-0700, or in front of Pasta Pomodoro at the event. 7/18 - The Society of American Magicians Assembly #112 meets the 3rd Wednesday of each month. We perform great magic and have loads of fun! Open to all! Round Table Pizza, 7pm, 2960 Treat Blvd., Concord, CA. Join us this month and learn magic! Information: Call Fred (925) 451-1292 7/15 - Rodgers Ranch Herb Day 2012 – 11am – 4pm. Attend our demonstrations, shop at the vendors’ booths and visit the HSA Herb Garden. Questions? Email
Summer Concerts
sic LIVonEtheMlau wn by the lake
Pleasant Hill City Hall Gregory Ln & Cleaveland Rd
6:00-8:00pm!
Free!
ncuhsa@gmail.com. To find us: www.rodgersranch.org/location. 7/24 & 7/26 - Rodgers Ranch Round Up - Heritage Days 9am - 2pm, $35 per day. Ages 7 - 12, Session 3: 7/24 – Sing and Play, Session 4: 7/26 – Job Day for the Kids 315 Cortsen Rd. Pleasant Hill. Email RodgersRanch@yahoo.co, or call Denise Koroslev at (925) 387-0158. Space is limited. Willows Cabaret Theatre Thru -7/21 “Vaudeville”; 7/13-15 – “Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka Jr.”; 7/23-8/19 “A Doll’s House” Www.willowstheatre.org, (925)798-1300. Fridays on the Main – Thru August, 6-8pm. Cars, Trucks, Bikes and Live Music! Free! Downtown Martinez.
At the library Pleasant Hill: Tuesdays - Doorstep Farmers Pick Up 5-7pm. Sign up with Doorstep Farmers, a local CSA, at www.doorstepfarmers.com. All subscribers will receive a 5% discount for choosing Pleasant Hill Library as their pickup location. Wednesdays - English Conversation Practice for Adults 1:30-2:30pm. This ESL group meets weekly. Ages 18+.
And on Sep 2...
Wednesdays - Mother Goose Storytime 11:15-11:45pm & 1:15-1:45pm. Ages 0-3.
3:30-8:00pm
Thursdays - Preschool Storytime 11:1511:45am. Ages 3-5.
a DOUBLE HEADER!
Fridays - Mother Goose Storytime 11:1511:45pm. Ages 0-3.
Jul 22...Tamsen Donner
Jul 8...Petty Theft
Join us for all the concerts this summer! Aug 5...Fundamentals Aug 19...Cover2Cover
CONCERT SPONSORS Aug 19
Jul 22
Aug 5
Aug 19
Casey Strand Chiropractor Aug 19
Sep 2 Sheila’s
Fridays - Contra Costa Teen Chess Club 3-5pm. Instruction, friendly matches, and tournaments. Interested in learning, improving your game, and meeting local teens? All levels are welcome. Saturdays - Story Time 11:15-11:45am. Babies, Preschoolers, Kids. 7/6 - One-On-One Computer Tutor 11am &12pm. Tutors help new computer users with all the basics including email accounts, Microsoft Word and Internet searches. Call for appt. for one-hour session. For adults. 925-646-6434.
Sep 2...The Bell Brothers Sep 2...Lumberyard
Organized by PH Civic Action Commission. Visit www.pleasanthillconcerts.com for all concert information. SERIES SPONSORS
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Daycare Sep 2
7/11 - Teen Advisory Group (The PHUN Team, Pleasant Hill United Nerds Team)
3:30-5:00pm. Meet other teens and the young adult librarian to share and plan what you want to see happen at the library. Room A. Ages 13-18. 7/12 - Hunger Games Party for Teens 2-3:30pm. There will be games, trivia, archery, and crafts related to your favorite book. Costumes are encouraged! The library will be accepting non-perishable food donations that day to give to the Food Bank of Contra Costa & Solano. Play some board games too! Room A. 7/17 - PH Book Club 6:30pm-7:45pm. The Wave, by Susan Casey. 7/28 - Zoomobile! 2:30pm. The Oakland Zoomobile pulls up to the Pleasant Hill library for a fun and furry show and tell. Kids can get up close and pet most of the small animals on show, while the Oakland Zoo’s animal experts tell us fascinating facts about these curious. Ages 5-14. Martinez: Tuesdays - Mother Goose Storytime 10:30am. Ages 0-3. 7/2 & 23 - Pajama Time 6:30-7:15pm. Come in your jammies and wind down with a warm story and a cool craft! Special events every month! Contact: Lea Stone, 646-9900. 7/9 - July Americana 6:30-7:30pm. There will be fun for all ages when “Spinning Wheel” plays bluegrass at the Martinez Library! Crafts and old-fashioned games for the kids, great music for everyone! 7/10 - Lego Workshop: We All Fall Down! 3:30 – 4:30pm. In honor of the 75th anniversary of the Golden Gate Bridge, we will explore Lego bridge building techniques at this free workshop. Come work with Lego sculptor Charles Esseltine! 7/10 - Book Discussion Group 6:45pm. Join us as we discuss Rumors of Peace by Ella Leffland & Farewell Summer by Ray Bradbury. Adults only. 7/30 - Ice Cream Workshop 3-4pm. Learn the easy way to make everyone’s favorite treat! Come prepared for a little culinary exploration; bring along your appetite. Ages 5-14. Registration Required. All Libraries Closed for Independence Day, July 4.
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TEEN SCENE
July 2012
AAUW Awards Local Scholarships
The Pleasant Hill - Martinez branch of American Association of University Women (AAUW) presented Tech Trek camp and college scholarship awards to eight students from local schools. It is the mission of AAUW to break down barriers for women and girls by promoting education and supporting personal and professional growth. Each recipient was honored by members, family, and friends at a June brunch. Four very deserving seniors were recognized for excelling in their high school years, not only with excellent grades, but also in community service and leadership ability. They were each awarded a $1,000 AAUW scholarship in recognition of their achievements. This year’s recipients were
Carielle Spangenberg and Samantha Viano from Alhambra High School, and Madelyn Kring and Amelia Lowry from College Park. Carielle is off to UC Berkeley to major in engineering. Samantha will attend Cal Poly and is interested in marketing in the wine industry. Madelyn will attend UC Berkeley where she will pursue medical and international studies. Amelia is headed to Chico State University and has an interest in business. Pleasant Hill - Martinez is proud to award these young women its 2012 scholarships. This branch of AAUW strongly supports its local scholarship fund in many ways. Two of the events that have become
Tikkun Olam Winners
Edgar Yap and Samantha St. Germain Win This Year’s Block–Harris Tikkun Olam Scholarships The 2012 Tikkun Olam Scholarships were presented to College Park graduates Edgar Yap and Samantha St. Germain by Dawn Block and Pleasant Hill Vice Mayor Michael Harris. The scholarship fund was established by Ms. Block and Dr. Harris to recognize outstanding students who epitomize the tradition of Tikkun Olam, which in Hebrew means “repairing the world,” for their work in helping others and making the world a better place. Edgar was honored for his many hours of volunteer service, including helping homeless families, rebuilding a house and church in New Orleans, and being a youth group leader at CTK. This fall, he will study Biology at UC Berkeley. He plans on becoming a doctor, assisting with developing countries’ health needs and running a free medical clinic for the
needy. As a young man who has demonstrated great leadership, commitment, and organizational skills, Edgar is a welldeserved recipient of this 2012 Tikkun Olam scholarship. Samantha was honored for her extensive work in helping underserved populations, including distributing clothing and food and working in soup kitchens. She also has organized blood drives, worked at the Monument Crisis Center and with Habitat for Humanity. This fall, Samantha will attend UCLA’s College of Engineering where she will major in Electrical Engineering. As a mature, intelligent, responsible young woman who possesses great integrity, Samantha is a most worthy recipient of the 2012 Tikkun Olam scholarship. Both Edgar and Samantha truly exemplify the tradition of Tikkun Olam - “repairing the world” - and have bright futures ahead of them.
a tradition are the September Italian Festa held at Viano Winery in Martinez, and a Silent Tea Party, which the membership generously supports. Tech Trek, a program that AAUW California started in 1998, is a science and math camp that encourages girls entering eighth grade to consider careers in science, math, engineering, or technology. The camp features hands-on activities in math, science, and related fields. All sleeping, eating, instructional, and recreational facilities are located on a variety of university campuses throughout California where camps are held. Campers are exposed to programs in fields such as astronomy, engineering, chemistry, marine biology, and environmental studies to enhance their learning
experience and introduce them to a variety of potential career areas. This year, four girls from Martinez and Pleasant Hill will attend the Tech Trek camp June 17 through 23 at the Sonoma State campus. The following local, outstanding students were chosen because of their passion for math and science: Alexis Williams (Martinez Junior High School), Kalina Ziegler (Pleasant Hill Middle School), Olivia Hunter-McElroy (Sequoia Middle School), and Angelica Alberti (Valley View Middle School). Congratulations to all of these exceptional young women. To find out more information about the Pleasant Hill - Martinez AAUW branch, please visit the website: aauw-ph.org.
The local scholarship girls L to R: Amelia Lowry (AHS), Carielle Spangenberg (CP), Samantha Viano (AHS) with co-chairs Ish Mendonsa and Elva Valli. Not pictured is Madelyn Kring (CP). Photos by Sherrie Moore
The Tech Trek camp girls L to R: Angelica Alberti (Valley View), Kalina Ziegler (P.H. Middle), Alexis Williams (Martinez J.H.), and Olivia Hunter-McElroy (Sequoia) with Tech Trek committee members Shelley Jacobson, Sherrie Moore and Joy Barden. Not pictured is Katrinka March, Tech Trek chairperson.
JENNIFER L. MARTIN, D.D.S. Specialist in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics
401 GREGORY LANE, SUITE 126 PLEASANT HILL, CA 94523 925.676.8485 FAX 925.676.0288 www.drjennifermartin.com Dawn Block and Michael Harris with Edgar Yap & Samantha St. Germain
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July 2012
Page 31
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