June 2015 Community Focus

JUNE 2015

Pleasant Hill • Concord • Martinez • Lafayette • Walnut Creek

Reaching Over 50,000 Homes & Businesses

ourcommunityfocus.com

IN THIS ISSUE: • JOHN MUIR LAND TRUST • AS RUSS SEES IT • 2015 GRAD ANNOUNCEMENTS

There are over 550* reasons

er Summ ived rr a s a h y!

—Enjo

to choose the Flaskerud Team— Don, Norma and Erik— as YOUR Realtor! *The number of homes sold in PLEASANT HILL by Don, Norma, and Erik!!

1 Realtor for ALL your Real Estate needs

Call Pleasant Hillʼs #

Don & Norma Flaskerud Erik Flaskerud

RE/MAX Today 367 Civic Drive #7 Pleasant Hill, CA 94523 Visit them at www.PleasantHillRealEstate.com or email DonaldFlaskerud@Remax.net or EFlaskerud@Remax.net

925-338-2980 Don, Norma, and Erik’s listings...

423 Soule Ave, PH — $775,000 15 Ardmore Ct, PH — $830,000 118 Sylvia Dr, PH — $569,000 104 Lockwood Ln, PH — $699,000 201 Patterson Blvd, PH — $775,000 1767 Ruth Dr, PH — $575,000

EXPIRES 6/30/15

CalBRE #s — Don: 00971602, Norma: 00867031, Erik: 01891688

Love, hope, success, family, security.

Matthew C Rinn, Agent Insurance Lic#: 0F99232 www.myagentmatt.net matt@myagentmatt.net Bus: 925-671-0222

Some things we all have in common.

There’s nobody like me to protect the things we all value.

Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.

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june 2015 • ourcommunityfocus.com

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Photos By Adam Weidenbach

John Muir Land Trust Unveils Saving Contra Costa Campaign

L

inus Eukel, executive director of the former Muir Heritage Land Trust, has announced the organization has changed its name to John Muir Land Trust, effective immediately. According to Eukel, “John Muir is an icon whose name is synonymous with the principles of conservation upon which our land trust was conceived over 25 years ago. We have adopted his full name as most accurately symbolic of our ongoing mission today.” The name change was announced at the organization’s Pure Muir Gala that took place at the U.S. National Park Service John Muir National Historic Site in Martinez.

JMLT’s name change comes at a pivotal moment, as the organization has recently unveiled its Saving Contra Costa campaign to raise $25 million. “We have already protected over 2,000 acres of prime Contra Costa open space that would have otherwise been developed. With this campaign, we aim to more than double that number,” said Eukel.

The campaign began with efforts to acquire a spectacular 44-acre property called West Hills Farm, immediately adjacent to the Mount Wanda section of the John Muir National Historic Site. Mount Wanda is a 325-acre parcel that was protected by the fledgling land trust in 1991. The West Hills Farm acquisition is scheduled for completion at the end of May, as $1 million in project costs are raised. Eukel says, “If not for protection by JMLT, the property would be developed as residential housing.”

Eukel also announced the next major element of the Saving Contra Costa campaign, a large and critically important property called Carr Ranch. The ranch is located in central Contra Costa at the southern boundary of Lamorinda (Lafayette, Moraga, & Orinda), adjacent to Alameda County.

It features over 600 acres of stunning ridgelines, unique rock formations, gorgeous valleys and sweeping views of the eastern Bay Area, delta and surrounding hills.

According to Eukel, “Carr Ranch has been owned for nearly 100 years by the Carr family. It exemplifies the cultural legacy of California ranches and the families that have taken care of them.” Discussing the importance of regional water he continues, “The past four years in California have been the driest on record in 80 years, and perhaps the last 400. Ongoing drought, climate change and population

growth pose significant threats to our local water supplies.

Situated in the Upper San Leandro watershed, adjacent to the Upper San Leandro Reservoir, JMLT acquisition of Carr Ranch provides a onetime opportunity to permanently protect high quality Bay Area drinking water at its source.”

In terms of wildlife habitat, Carr Ranch serves as a prime example of local biodiversity. It is home to an exceptional variety of foliage, including coastal live oak woodlands, riparian woodlands, coastal scrub and annual grasslands. Nearly all of the property is critical habitat for the threatened Alameda whipsnake. Likewise, Buckhorn Creek and numerous ponds on the property provide breeding and foraging habitat for the endangered California red-legged frog. Carr Ranch is also home to golden eagle, mountain lion, American badger, western pond turtle and many other species essential to our ecosystem.

Once acquired by JMLT, Carr Ranch will be opened to the public, providing an unparalleled source of recreation for surrounding communities. Much like JMLT’s existing Fernandez Ranch property, Carr Ranch will offer myriad opportunities for hiking, cycling, birding and equestrian activities.

West Hills Farm represents the eleventh property to be protected by JMLT. Their previous acquisitions since 1989 include Fernandez Ranch, Franklin Canyon, Acalanes Ridge, Sky Ranch, Dutra Ranch, Gustin Ranch, Mount Wanda, Contra Costa Goldfields, Pacheco Marsh, Bodfish Preserve and Stonehurst. Carr Ranch will represent the twelfth property under John Muir Land Trust’s protection.

The total project budget for Carr Ranch is $7 million and JMLT hopes to close escrow by June 2016. With this major acquisition, the organization will be well on its way to achieving the goals set forth in the Saving Contra Costa campaign. According to Eukel, “It has been just over 100 years since John Muir’s death, but his legacy of conservation is more relevant than ever.”

Contributions to the Saving Contra Costa Campaign can be made at the John Muir Land Trust’s website, www. jmlt.org.

The battle for conservation will go on endlessly.

It is the universal warfare between right and wrong.

– John Muir

ourcommunityfocus.com • june 2015

3

Julie Says

The Road More or Less Traveled

As we enter June, there are just a few days left in the life high school students have grown comfortable with. Moving on might be welcome, but it will be hard. I hope to help ease the transition with brilliant words of wisdom presented in a selection of quotes from commencement speeches -- some serious, some not so much. Here we go. Let’s begin with a serious one:

“Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life. Don’t let the noise of others’ opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition.”

Steve Jobs, co-founder with Steve Wozniak of Apple Computers Next, a spot-on piece of advice referencing one of Mr. Jobs’ marvels of technology:

“If your head is in your phone, the scenery never changes. So don’t worry about documenting the moment. Experience the

moment.”

David Carr, New York Times columnist, writer and author Have you noticed there is a lot of metaphorical talk about “paths” and “roads” in commencement speeches? For example:

“There is no straight path from your seat today to where you are going. Don’t try to draw that line. You will not just get it wrong, you’ll miss big opportunities.”

Sheryl Sandburg, technology executive and author More astute “path” commentary:

“Follow your passion, stay true to yourself, never follow someone else’s path unless you’re in the woods and you’re lost and you see a path, then by all means you should follow that.”

Ellen Degeneres, comedian, actor and talk show host Please take note of the observation below – so true!

“The road to success is dotted with many tempting parking places.”

Unknown

Fortunately, everyone’s favorite author has some encouraging words about navigating your path/road:

“You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose.”

Dr. Seuss, from Oh, The Places You’ll Go I think the next quote is another way of saying “seize the day.” Sigh.

“You will never have more energy or enthusiasm, hair or brain cells than you have today.”

Unknown Along with all the graduation chatter regarding paths, roads and journeys, we also hear a lot about being true to oneself as a unique individual. So I’m sure you will appreciate this:

“A graduation ceremony is an event where the commencement speaker tells thousands of students dressed in identical caps and gowns that “individuality” is the key to success.”

Robert Orben, comedian and author High school students have spent years

taking classes required to graduate. If you are tired of school and the one-size-fitshardly-anybody educational system, then pay attention to this:

“The unfortunate, yet truly exciting thing about your life is that there is no core curriculum. The entire place is an elective.”

Jon Stewart, comedian, writer, television host

But of course, if you are headed to college, there will also be a core curriculum there. Sorry.

Congratulations to all of our graduating high school seniors. As you follow your heart and steer yourself along the path of your choice, listening to your inner voice, don’t get stuck in a tempting parking place, do get beyond the core curriculum, realize your potential, and get your darn head out of your phone. There. That’s all you need to know. Good luck.

Happy graduation, have a wonderful summer, and all the best to our high school seniors.

Reach Julie at julieakross@comcast.net

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june 2015 • ourcommunityfocus.com

6680 Alhambra Ave. Box #132 Martinez, CA 94553

(925) 335-NEWS (6397)

INSIDE

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Outdoor Music

Local Sports

23

to

Bourbon Bonanza

Book Reviews

32

19 21

30 Juneteenth Celebration

COVER: ..............................................

Sunset by the Lake Summer Series, Pleasant Hill City Hall PHOTO BY: Susan Wood

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ourcommunityfocus.com • june 2015

5

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Metamorphosis

Chalk Artist Visits Valhalla Elementary

BY MARJI CALBECK, VALHALLA ELEMENTARY PRINCIPAL

On May 18 and 19, Valhalla Elementary students and staff were given the opportunity to work with an extremely talented and internationally known chalk-drawing artist, Mark Wagner. The two day project started with Mark sharing some of his stories and artwork with the students, including images of his chalk drawing that is in the Guinness Book of Records for being the largest in the world.

Over the course of two days, every student and teacher was able to join Mark on the playground to contribute to a collaborative piece dedicated to the memory of Carole Larson, our former art teacher who passed away in March.

It was truly a remarkable experience to participate in this project. The students were quick to take to the ground and create beautiful butterflies and other imaginative designs. Mark’s enthusiasm and artistic nature provided a perfect environment for the students to engage in their work. Watching each child and adult draw and create was inspiring. The resounding amount of focus and attention given to each drawing was a great reminder of the important role art can play in education by allowing students to have multiple ways to

Chalk artist Mark Wagner talks about the playground art project.

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june 2015 • ourcommunityfocus.com

express themselves.

This opportunity came about as the result of the efforts of the chairperson for our annual art fair, Nicole Sylvester. The theme of this year’s art fair, held on April 1, was “urban art.” Through her research on-line, she learned about Mark’s work and contacted him. He was not able to come for the art fair, but he offered to come and do the assemblies and create an artistic work on the playground. From there the project morphed into an opportunity to create a beautiful memory of Mrs. Larson and tie it into a display for open house on May 20. The students were able to take their parents out to the playground and show them the specific part they had in creating this beautiful tribute to their beloved art teacher.

Additionally, this project was a perfect culminating activity to show how art can so wonderfully connect all the themes we have strived to develop and nurture all year, including community building, problem solving, risk taking, creativity, innovation and a love of learning. To find out more about Mark and his amazing art, visit his website at: www.heartsandbones.com.

More photos can be found on the Community Focus website, www.ourcommunityfocus.com.

Estate Planning

Charitable Giving in Your Estate Plan

BY DANIEL DuREE

Estate planning is an unfortunate necessity in our lives. Most people select children or other family members as sole beneficiaries without much further thought. However, if you are passionate about causes in your community, I encourage you to consider leaving a small part of your estate to support those causes and leave a meaningful local impact. Based on my experience dealing with trust administrations and distributions, there are a number of reasons to consider leaving a small gift to a local cause that you already support.

Minimal Impact to Heirs and

Outsized Effect on Your Chosen Cause. Because there are generally multiple beneficiaries, any small amount left to support a local cause results in a very small impact on the inheritance of any one beneficiary.

Say, for example, that a person passes away leaving an estate worth six hundred thousand dollars and three adult children beneficiaries. Each child will receive two hundred thousand dollars. Now think if that person left one percent of their estate to a local cause they support. That would leave six thousand dollars to the local nonprofit. To most local groups that is a very substantial amount and can have a large impact on accomplishing their mission.

Six thousand dollars can feed and

Life Insurance

educate a lot of children, save a lot of animals, conserve a lot of open space or increase access to the arts for a lot of people. That six thousand dollars can change multiple lives. At the same time, receiving one hundred and ninety eight thousand dollars instead of two hundred thousand dollars for the beneficiaries is probably not going to make a major difference in their lives.

With Modern Medicine Beneficiaries are Older. In the vast majority of cases, “children” are at least in their fifties or sixties when the last surviving parent passes away. I recently had a client I assisted whose son was born in 1940. The client is in great health and her son is seventy-five. We should all be so lucky, but the reality now is that

THE LAW OFFICE OF

DANIEL L. DUREE

Ensure Information is Accurate

BY COLLEEN CALLAHAN

I sell life insurance. One of the interesting and gratifying parts of my job is meeting with people that are purchasing life insurance for the first time. It is enjoyable to ask questions and hear their stories. I like to know why they are buying. In fact, it is crucial to know why before one can determine how much.

Often the impetus is to cover a mortgage, protect income, or provide for children or a spouse. There is a desire to protect loved ones, assure they will have the ability to stay in their home, and give children a solid education. These conversations are filled with talk of dreams.

A seasoned life insurance agent also experiences the other end of the spectrum, receiving the call that a client has died, offering condolences, and getting to work on processing the claim. This is the less commonly discussed part of the process, and

sensitivity is vital.

Last month, I was appalled to hear an advisor in an investment office take that call. The first question I heard was, “Do you have a copy of the death certificate?” The advisor asked a couple additional questions and then said, off handedly, “Oh, my condolences, by the way.” I left the office before the conversation ended; I had heard enough.

I have delivered checks to surviving spouses/partners, friends, a beneficiary whose spouse committed suicide, and an estranged son that we were tasked with locating. It is important to handle that painful part of the insurance process with tact. The survivors are grieving.

To those of you that have life insurance, an annuity or a retirement account, be certain that the beneficiary is correct. It is very uncomfortable to discover that a former spouse is still listed as a primary beneficiary.

Colleen Callahan Insurance Services is located in Pleasant Hill. Contact her at 925-363-5433 or ccallahan@ callahaninsurance.com.

the lives of child beneficiaries are often well established by the time they receive any inheritance, and the impact of that gift has less of an effect on their lifestyle or financial stability.

Of course not everyone has a local cause they are passionate about and there are often family needs that clearly take precedence. If, on the other hand, there is a local cause that you support and your family has already been provided for, consider leaving a small part of your estate to that cause to create a meaningful and lasting impact on your community.

Daniel L. DuRee is a third generation resident of Contra Costa County and a licensed attorney practicing in Walnut Creek. He can be reached at (925) 2101400 or visit www.DuReeLaw.com.

Estate Planning Attorney

925.210.1400 1535 North Main Street, Suite 240 • Walnut Creek

Please call today for a complimentary consultation at my office or in your home.

www.DuReeLaw.com

TRUSTS • WILLS • PROBATE

ourcommunityfocus.com • june 2015

7

Finding the Right Realtor Qualities to Look For

BY GLENN ALLEN

Whether you’re in the market for a new home or need to list a property you already own, finding the right agent is essential. A well-matched Realtor forms a partnership with their client, sharing values and using proven strategies to make

the deal happen. The five criteria I discuss here will go a long way toward helping you choose an experienced agent who can be a trusted advisor and negotiator.

Good Listening Skills. Your broker needs do more than show the house and handle paperwork. An empathetic listener can translate what you tell them into a plan of action. If you’re a buyer, they should be able to read between

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the lines to separate must haves from non-essential wish list items. If you’re a seller, they should be able to respect your opinions without allowing you to make costly errors when setting or negotiating the selling price.

Reputation. Good real estate agents have made a name for themselves. Other brokers respect them, and former clients have positive things to say. This is important for a couple reasons. The more positive exposure your agent has, the better able they are to negotiate deals with other brokers, and in a service oriented profession like real estate, visibility means access to more properties and contacts, which can expedite the buying and selling process.

Versatility. Although some brokers specialize in a real estate niche, ideally you want someone who deals in a broad market. A versatile agent understands real estate dynamics, e.g. how a new condo development affects the property value in surrounding homes, whereas a niche agent will simply show you a condo in the new development or a home near it, as though the two properties had no larger interrelationship. The Realtor with the big picture experience is the one who can pinpoint with greater accuracy how good an investment your property is.

Technological Savvy. A whopping 92 percent of people use the Internet as a

tool in their real estate searches, according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR). The Realtor you choose must have access to the most sophisticated databases in the industry so they are able to find properties that meet your criteria down to exact specifications. You should be able to access their website both from a desktop and a mobile device. Ideally, they are not only expanding their contacts through social media networking, but have also created a website that contains valuable client resources that you can use throughout the process.

Resonant Core Values. When choosing your Realtor, service, integrity, stability, communication, and contribution are critical core values. Your broker needs to be a rock you can depend on to get the job done, no matter how stressful the prevailing market is. Dissonant values lead to indecisiveness and conflict.

Always go with the broker who speaks an ethical language you can relate to.

More information, including 10 Questions You Need to Ask Your Agent, can be found at www.Talktoglenn.com.

Please contact me for a free, no obligation consultation.

Glenn Allen, RE/MAX Real Estate agent, can be reached at glenn@TalkToGlenn.com, 925-709-1000 or visit www.

TalkToGlenn.com/blog, phsalesreport. com and enhanceandstage.com.

You’re a little curious right?

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Call today for instant price quote or set up a free estimate for a guaranteed price!

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Moving You On To Better Things 8

june 2015 • ourcommunityfocus.com

FREE STAGING

Call

Glenn 925.709.1000 or visit

www.EnhanceAndStage.com

ic LIVE Mus & FUN 6-8pm!

Jun 7...Sunday Paper Bay Area Funk & Roll

Free!

sunset by the lake

summer concerts On the lawn by the lake at

Pleasant Hill City Hall

Bring items of non-perishable food to donate to the Crisis Center.

Jun 21...The Fundamentals Red Hot Rockin’ Soul

Gregory Ln & Cleaveland Rd

Jul 5...Extra Large

FOOD

Beverage & every co sales ncert!

Taste of ‘Santa Cruz’ lively & fun

Jul 19...Fast Times 80s Dance Party Music

Aug 30...East Bay MUDD Classic Fun & Soul

Sep 6...Big Jangle Tom Petty Tribute Band

Restaurants tentatively scheduled to sell food:

Aug 2...MOFO Rockin’ Blues Band

Jun 7 Jun 21 Jul 5 Jul 19 Aug 2 Aug 16 Aug 30 Aug 2

Aug 16...Groove Doctors Variety Dance Party Band

Steel Smokin BBQ El Aquila Drewski’s Pizza My Way Steel Smokin BBQ Drewski’s El Aquila Steel Smokin BBQ

Visit www.pleasanthillconcerts.com for all concert information.

Sponsored by Pleasant Hill Civic Action Commission RE/MAX Today

Series Sponsors

Don & Norma Flaskerud Erik Flaskerud Erin Springer Anderson Realtors DRE#00971602

City of Pleasant Hill

Concert Sponsors

Sheila’s Daycare Casey Strand Chiropractor Dallimonti’s Italian Restaurant Sept 6

Pleasant Hill Citywide Garage Sale If you’re a buyer...

Don't trash it — Sell it!

Saturday, June 6, 2015

• Go to www.pleasanthillgaragesale.com to find households taking part in the citywide garage sale.

• Start early but not before listed times. Experienced shoppers come early to find the best buys.

• Bring a reusable bag, which will allow you to carry heavier items more easily and to protect fragile objects.

Buyers, Be a Contest Winner...

• Register the address of your sale by going online and entering your information at the webite www.pleasanthillgaragesale.com.

• You may also register your garage sale by calling (925) 671-5806.

“Like” the garage sale on Facebook at www.facebook.com/pleasanthillgaragesale.

• Deadline to register is Thursday, June 4, 2015.

• Best Find: Post your best find on our Facebook page for a chance to win a great prize.

• Best Upcycle: Transform your garage sale find into something new. Post a photo of your “upcycled” find on our Facebook page. Best ones will be displayed at the Summer Concert at City Hall on July 5. Best in show wins a fabulous prize!

If you’re a seller...

Questions?

Online: www.pleasanthillgaragesale.com

Phone: (925) 671-5806 Email: abaker@republicservices.com

• To direct traffic to your sale, post street signs (not in public rights of way) and advertise online or in newspapers. Please take all signs down after your sale.

A joint effort by the City of Pleasant Hill & Republic Services to protect the environment and conserve resources through reuse.

Sponsoring Businesses:

ourcommunityfocus.com • june 2015

9

City of Pleasant Hill

Mayor’s Message Shaping the Image of Pleasant Hill: City Gateways Project

Over the course of the past year, the city has conducted a series of public workshops and community meetings to solicit insights and opinions from residents, businesses, and community leaders to help define design concepts for our city gateways.

What do we mean by City Gateways?

City gateways are often defined as entry points to a city or town that reflect the character and aspirations of a community. Gateway features should help tell the story of the community and reflect the community’s sense of place. The current gateway features in Pleasant Hill have served the community well for many years, but they are aging and need to be replaced.

The city engaged with WRT, a landscape architectural design firm, to help with the community outreach process and develop design concepts based on feedback and input from these meetings. The city also conducted an online survey and received 225 survey responses.

The meetings and survey helped define the unique qualities of Pleasant Hill and identified the main entryways into the city that welcome visitors as well as the public destinations that

10

need additional signage to help people navigate them.

We also used group meetings with the city’s Architectural Review Commission, Planning Commission, Chamber of Commerce, and the Pleasant Hill Rec & Park Board to focus on understanding the natural features of the community and the social fabric of residents, students, families and businesses that make up our community.

What happens next?

The final community design workshop was held on May 11, and the next steps for the project include developing specific cost estimates for the final design concepts and then taking the Draft Master Plan back to the city’s Architectural Review Commission and Planning Commission for input before a final public presentation is made to the city council.

The community process has been good, and what has clearly emerged is the community’s passion for the place where they do business or call home.

The feedback and opinions of many have resulted in design concepts that will reflect the unique character and aspirations of our community well into the future.

I am particularly grateful to our economic development manager, Kelly Calhoun, who has been stalwart in

june 2015 • ourcommunityfocus.com

Ken Carlson, Mayor of Pleasant Hill

guiding and managing this project.

Upcoming Events

The 16th Annual Sunset by the Lake Summer Concert Series began on Sunday, May 24. Organized by our very own Civic Action Commission, this everpopular concert series has become a mainstay of summer entertainment in Central Contra Costa and is attended by thousands of residents and visitors.

There are eight additional concerts this year and the complete schedule is available at www.pleasanthillconcerts.com.

Don’t Trash It; Sell It. That’s the slogan for the 3rd annual citywide garage sale on Saturday, June 6, throughout the city. If you want to host your own garage sale, you can list it online for free at www.pleasanthillgaragesale.com.

Last year, more than 100 homes participated in the event. It was a garage sale hunter’s paradise and will be again this year. If you want to check out the listings with map locations, go to the website above and click on the browse ad button.

Public Meetings Architectural Review Commission June 4, 18 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane, Small Community Room, 5pm. Contact: 671-5209 Civic Action Commission June 3 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane, Small Community Room, 6:30pm. Contact: 671-5229 City Council June 1, 15 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane, Council Chambers, 7:30pm. Contact: 671-5229 Library Task Force June 8 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane, Large Community Room, 11am. Contact: 671-5229 Planning Commission June 9, 23 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane, Council Chambers, 7:30pm. Contact: 671-5209 Education Commission June 24 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane, Community Room, 7pm For Confirmation Visit: www.ci.pleasant-hill.ca.us

Chamber Calendar 6/11 - Business Runway: Access to Capital, “Show Me the Money” 7:3011:30am, John F. Kennedy University, 100 Ellinwood Way, PH. 6/11 - Business Mixer at Rehabilitation Services of Northern California 5-7pm, 490 Golf Club Road, PH. 6/18 - “Wine at the Plaza” Thursday Summer Concert Series 6-8:30pm, Downtown Plaza in Pleasant Hill (between Sweet Tomatoes & Jack’s).

6/29 - Green Business Committee 4-5pm, Daily Digital, 3440 Vincent Road, Suite I, PH. 6/29 - Government Affairs Committee 5:30-7pm, Back Forty Texas BBQ, 100 Coggins Drive, PH. 680 Business Clubs Business building & networking, meets twice monthly. Call office for more information. 680 Professional Women’s Networking Group, tailored for women, meets once a month. Call office for more information.

OFF THE GRID Food Trucks Wednesdays 5- 9pm, Trelany Road, PH. Farmers’ Market Every Saturday 9am-1pm, Trelany Road, PH.

City of Pleasant Hill

City News Hilton Homewood Suites a Go

At the May 5 city council meeting, councilmembers considered an appeal by Pleasant Hill Citizens for Responsible Growth of the planning commission’s decision to approve the development plan for the Hilton Hotel project on Ellinwood Drive. The motion to deny the appeal was voted 4 – 1, with councilmember Harris dissenting

“I’m pleased to see that there has been significant change in and dramatic reduction in the size, massing and appearance of the structure from what was originally proposed. I’ve been struggling to find an issue that I thought was clearly in favor of the appellant,” said councilmember Flaherty. Pleasant Hill Citizens for Responsible Growth cited issues related to parking and preservation of historical resources in its appeal of the planning commission’s March 10 approval of the development plan for the 83,969-square-foot hotel.

“Everything that the staff has recommended and that the planning commission has approved is well within the parameters that the city council established…This was about trying to make sure that the project that we ended up with really did fit more with the location where this is,” said councilmember Durant.

The council approved the project with three conditions as follows: 1. The developer is required to consult with Native American tribes regarding possible cultural or heritage areas before any substantial grading or demolition work on site begins.

2. A seven-foot barrier must be created with suitable plant materials on the berm facing towards the residential area off Ellinwood Drive.

3. The hotel must record all car license plates of guests staying at the hotel.

DVC Plaza Redevelopment

A study session by the ARC was held on May 21 to discuss the extensive remodel and renovation of existing retail buildings at the southern half of the DVC Shopping Plaza between Chilpancingo Parkway and Golf Club Road by Merlone Geier Partners.

The proposal includes the following: a 432,000 sq. ft. auto dealership (see building 1), International Education Center (see building 5), new landscaping, hardscape and parking lot improvements, a new dog park along Grayson Creek next to Chilpancingo Park; a new walking/bicycle trail extending from Golf Club Road to Chilpancingo Parkway adjacent to Grayson Creek; a new 1,350 square foot building and an illuminated 67-foot high freestanding “visibility” sign located at 61 Chilpancingo Parkway, to be seen from Contra Costa Boulevard. As the meeting was a study session, no action was taken.

There will be more opportunity for the public to provide feedback on the upcoming project.

City News Continued ners of the race were Pumped Up Kids, with second place going to Team Davies and third place to the 79 Cent Bananas. Nearly $2,000 was raised for the Foundation for Pleasant Hill Education.

Jack’s Tap Room

The ever-popular Jack’s Restaurant and Bar in Downtown Pleasant Hill is close to opening Jack’s Taps at 60 Crescent Drive. Access to the taproom will also be available through the restaurant. Façade improvements are currently in progress. The owners plan to have 20 mostly local and West Coast breweries on tap, including: Drakes Brewing Co. “Denogginizer” San Leandro; 21st Amendment Brewing Co. “Hell or High Watermelon” SF; High Water Brewing Co. “Campfire Stout”; Cali Craft, “Cali Coast” and Deschutes, “Fresh Squeezed”. “The place is really taking shape, and we are still slated for an early June opening. Should be a fun place to hang out and drink great beers!” said coowner John Marcovici.

Contra Costa Library’s Summer Reading Program

This summer, Contra Costa County Library encourages all ages to rock out at the Summer Reading Festival 2015: Read to the Rhythm, which runs Saturday, June 6 through Saturday, August 15. Starting June 6, reading records will be available in community libraries and online at ccclib.org. Participants use the reading record to track their reading time and earn prizes. Pre-readers may share a book with a parent, sibling, or friend.

Pleasant Hill Summer Bike Challenge

In an effort to encourage youth biking, 511Contra Costa is rolling out a new biking program in Pleasant Hill called the “Summer Youth Bike Challenge.” This program runs June 24 - August 29 and challenges youths to ride their bikes to various recreational destinations around town, including public parks and athletic fields, the aquatic park, city hall, library, farmers’ market, and Downtown Pleasant Hill.

Participation in this program is free and open to all Pleasant Hill students in grades K-12. Bike to at least 12 of the 16 challenge squares on the card (similar to a Bingo game card) and cross off each square when complete. Many of the squares also offer free treats along the way. Kids can turn in their completed challenge cards at any of the 7 events listed in the challenge by August 29 to be entered in the iPad Mini drawing.

Get your Challenge Card by going to the YMCA, PH Aquatic Center, PH Library or online at: www.ourcommuntiyfocus.com or www.511contracosta.org/SBC. Print out the Challenge Card and iPad Drawing Entry Form. “As a resident of Pleasant Hill, I appreciate that our town has so much going for it, including our abundance of clean parks, bike friendly neighborhoods, and the canal trail with new, safer street crossings, all of which make the bike challenge a perfect fit for the city,” said Kirsten Riker, 511 Contra Costa Program Leader.

MON-SAT 11-6

Amazing Race’s Amazing Turnout

The Foundation for Pleasant Hill Education held the 3rd annual Amazing Race on Sunday, May 3, with 32 teams that included more than 100 participants. Teams made six stops with several activities at each stop, including preparing an emergency pack with the Pleasant Hill CERT team to bouncing ping pong balls onto a piece of bread spread with Nutella. The race ended at city hall with a special appearance by Jon and Kris Buehler, runners up from Season 6 of the TV show, “The Amazing Race.” The win-

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11

City of Martinez PHOTO BY STAHLBERG

Mayor’s Message

We are facing a fourth consecutive dry year and our reservoirs are as low as they have been since the drought of 1986 to 1991. In 2013 California received less precipitation than any year since it became a state in 1850. All indications are that it will take years to recover from this dry spell and refill our storage systems. It is time that all of us accept the fact that California is a desert and we must capture the rainfall in wet years and adjust how we use water in our personal and business lives. Where there is no water there is no economy, no jobs, and no life.

The situation is so dire that the governor declared a state of emergency and mandated a 25% statewide reduction in water use on April 1. This unprecedented action drives home the severity of the drought and the need for all of us to cut

wasteful habits and treat water as a precious commodity.

Both the Contra Costa Water District (CCWD) and the city water system serve the City of Martinez. The city system purchases raw water from CCWD, treats it at the city water treatment facility, and pumps it to a number of hilltop reservoirs. The drinking water is then delivered to over 10,000 customers located in the western half of the city, as well as the areas of Vine Hill and Alhambra Valley.

CCWD recently adopted a 25% Drought Management Plan, and the city recently declared its intent to take the same action at a public hearing to be held on July 1. Under the mandate by the governor, we must reduce water usage by 25% compared to 2013 usage or be subject to fines of $10,000 per day for each day in violation

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Rob Schroder, Mayor of Martinez

of the regulations. The city water system and many city residents and businesses are subject to the CCWD proposed restrictions and pricing adjustments. It is important that we treat all residents equally. The Martinez City Council will likely adopt a conservation program that parallels CCWD’s program.

The new conservation regulations will include the following prohibitions: • Using potable water to wash sidewalks, patios and driveways • Allowing runoff when irrigating with potable water • Using hoses without automatic shutoff nozzles to wash cars • Using potable water in a decorative water feature with no recirculation • Irrigating outdoors more than twice per week, during daylight hours, and within 48 hours following measurable precipitation

Martinez Public Works crews have already reduced watering of landscaping to twice a week and cut back watering times

by 25%. More efficient sprinkler heads are replacing old and wasteful systems, and we are using large amounts of recycled water to irrigate medians and parks. In fact, residents that are serviced by the Central Contra Costa Sanitary District (CCCSD) can obtain up to 300 gallons a day of recycled water for personal use.

My family is trying to do our part as well by installing shut-off valves on all showerheads and cutting back outdoor watering to twice a week (for only 5 minutes per station). We also have 5 gallon buckets in each shower to catch running water while waiting for it to turn warm.

That water is used to irrigate the garden and potted plants.

For more information on the emergency water regulations and tips on how to conserve our precious water resources, visit the State Water Board’s website at: http:// www.swrcb.ca.gov/waterrights/water_issues/programs/drought/emergency_regulations_waterconservation.shtml.

Public Meetings

City Council Meeting June 3, 17 City Hall, 525 Henrietta Street, 7-11pm. Contact: 372-3500 Design Review Meeting June 10, 24 City Hall, 525 Henrietta Street, 4-5pm. Contact: 372-3500 Planning Commission Meeting June 9, 23 City Hall, 525 Henrietta Street, 7-11pm. Contact: 372-3500 Zoning Administrator Meeting June 3, 17 City Hall, 525 Henrietta Street, 4-5pm. Contact: 372-3500 For Confirmation Visit: www.cityofmartinez.org

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Chamber Calendar

If interested in becoming an ambassador, contact us at (925) 228-2345 or email Rachel@martinezchamber.com.

6/20 – 6/21 – 9th Annual King of the County BBQ Challenge & Music Festival, Father’s Day Weekend, 11am-6pm. Family Fun, Lip Smackin’ BBQ, Live Rockin’ Music, BBQ Competition, Arts & Crafts Booths, Kid’s Rides & Activities, Pony Rides, Water Balls, Petting Zoo, Microbreweries & Wineries. Free admission & parking.

Vendor booths still available! We’re still taking BBQ competition applications. Call the Martinez Chamber for more information!

6/22 – Chamber Office Closed

City of Martinez

City News 4th of July Celebration The 6th annual Martinez 4th of July parade begins at 10am on Main Street in downtown Martinez, with fireworks at the marina at approximately 9:30pm. Over 2,000 people gather to watch the colorful, patriotic parade. The kids’ decorated bike parade returns this year. The kids will gather at the beginning of the parade, and all participants will receive an award. Come with a decorated bike and meet at the parade staging area before 10am at Court & Main St. Awards will be given immediately following the parade at the judges reviewing platform. For more information, call the Martinez Parks and Recreation at 372-3510.

Schedule of Activities: 8 - 10am: Pancake breakfast, sponsored by Roxx on Main, 627 Main St. 9 - 9:15am: Flag raising ceremony, Veterans Memorial Building, 930 Ward St. 10am: Hometown parade on Main Street, beginning at Court St. & Main St. and ending at Alhambra Ave. & Main.

King of the County BBQ The 8th Annual King of the County BBQ challenge and music festival is June 14 and 15 at the Martinez Waterfront Park Marina. At this family event you will enjoy Lip Smackin’ BBQ, live music, and more. Admission and parking are free. Sponsored by the Martinez Chamber of Commerce. See ad on page 5.

Drought Management Plan

At the May 6 city council meeting, a resolution declaring the city’s intent to implement a temporary water consumption pricing adjustment of up to $0.50 per unit of treated water used was approved unanimously. Further, a public hearing is set for July 1 to consider the pricing adjustment, the establishment of a Drought Management Plan, and the introduction of a city 25% Drought Management Plan as mandated by the governor of California.

According to City Engineer Tim Tucker, “the drought management program includes mimicking a .50/unit (748 gallons) temporary pricing adjustment that would only last as long as the governor’s executive order is in place. A family of 4 uses about 350 gallons of water per day. If they do not conserve water, they will have the water consumption portion of their bill increased by $5. If they reduce their water consumption by 25%, they will see a reduction of about $5-7 in their monthly bill overall. The overall goal is to have customers reduce water consumption by 25%.

Our residents are going to be charged the same as the Contra Costa Water District residents.”

Free Recycled Water for Residents

Residents can receive free recycled water from the Central Contra Costa Sanitation District, 4797 Imhoff Place in Martinez. Eligible communities include Lafayette, Martinez, Pacheco, Pleasant Hill, and Walnut Creek. The recycled water can be used to hand-water lawns, gardens and landscaping to help save drinking water supplies.

The fill station is located at the Household Hazardous Waste Collection Facility (HHWCF), 4797 Imhoff Place, and hours of operation are Monday through Saturday, 9am to 3:30pm. Prior to using the fill station for the first time, you must complete and bring a Residential Recycled Water Use Application/Agreement, found on the website: www.centralsan.org. Blank Agreements are also available at the HHWCF.

City News Continued gency notifications that are relevant to you neighborhood. Please be assured that your Nextdoor website remains private, and police staff will not be able to see any of the content on your neighborhood website, except for the direct replies to the posts. The Martinez PD looks forward to communicating with citizens on Nextdoor to make Martinez an even better place to live. To access Nextdoor, visit nextdoor. com, enter your address, your email address, and click “find your neighborhood.”

Fridays on the Main and First Fridays!

Join the Martinez community in a fantastic event happening every Friday night on Main Street in downtown Martinez -- Friday’s on the Main and the farmers’ market. Fridays on the Main features classic cars and live music on the 600 & 700 blocks of Main Street, 6 -8pm, and a farmers’ market on the 800 block of Main Street, 4 - 8pm. On the first Friday of each month, join the “Blast from the Past” dance party, 6 - 8pm. All ages are welcome, and our over-21 guests will be able to sip a craft beer or fine wine while enjoying the band! Retro attire is encouraged! Both events run through September 11, 2015.

Moving With Pets Helpful Tips to Keep Rover Safe

BY SUZANNE LOOKER, “Your Pet Friendly Realtor” at Pacific Union Real Estate

Moving to a new home can be stressful on your pets, but there are things you can do to make the process as painless as possible: 1. Update your pet’s tags.

2. Ask for veterinary records.

3. Keep medication and food on hand.

4. Seclude your pet from chaos; keep them in a safe, well-ventilated area. (I have pet sitters available.)

5. Play it safe and travel with your pet in a crate.

6. Get ready for takeoff; when traveling on a plane, ask the airline about pet requirements.

7. Find a new veterinary clinic and emergency hospital; ask for a referral from your vet.

8. Prep your new home for pets; they may be frightened and confused, so make the new space friendlier and familiar with water bowls, litter box, toys, bed, etc.

These simple steps will help make it easier on your furry family members during a move. For more information on how the Ford-Looker Team can help you sell your home or help you purchase a home, contact Suzanne at 925-917-9070, Suzanne.

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Police Department using Nextdoor

The Martinez Police Department is using Nextdoor, a private social network, in an effort to build stronger and safer neighborhoods and better communicate with citizens with the assistance of technology. Currently, the police department shares important information with the public through Facebook, Twitter, and Nixle. The addition of Nextdoor will assist the Martinez PD in sharing important news and emer-

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ourcommunityfocus.com • june 2015

13

City of Walnut Creek

Mayor’s Message

According to a quote generally attributed to Mark Twain, “Whiskey is for drinking, water is for fighting over.”

Recently, the governor announced the first-ever mandatory water restrictions, recently imposed by the State Water Resources Board. Those restrictions seek reductions in water use of 25% or more.

As a result of its Climate Action Plan (adopted in April 2012), the city has already reduced water usage in several areas through the installation of low flow toilets, low flow shower heads, flow meters, mulching around plantings, and by replacing inefficient irrigation systems. In 2012, the city adopted a Water Efficient Landscaping Ordinance. That ordinance applies mostly to new developments, but it does apply to existing single-family

homes where more than 5,000 sq. ft. of landscaping is being changed. According to the information supporting the ordinance, approximately 60% of the water used by a single-family home is used for landscape. This works out to 100,000 gallons/year just to maintain landscape that does not belong in a Mediterranean climate. Modification of the ordinance is one of the items that the city council may consider in the future. Further actions are included in the 2015 Drought Management Plan, which the city council approved on May 5, 2014.

By way of an important example, the city has about 80 acres of turf. We do want to keep watering those turf areas that are used for sports activities, but city staff has identified 17 acres that are not used for such purposes

Bob Simmons, Mayor of Walnut Creek

and has stopped watering those grass areas. You will see signs that say “Water Conservation Area.” On about five of those 17 acres, the city is moving forward with plans to convert the lawn areas this fall to drought tolerant vegetation. Future plans may see additional areas converted to drought tolerant vegetation. While you will still see flowers in the downtown planters, those are being watered with free, recycled water obtained from the Central Contra Costa Sanitary District. The city has also stopped watering grass that is in the median strips in roadways.

Probably the largest median strip is on Tice Valley Road near the entrance to Rossmoor. In addition, the city-owned Boundary Oak Golf Course reduced its water usage from 2013 to 2014 by 20%. It will adopt further measures this

year, but it will also try to preserve the fairway grass and the greens.

So, I think the city has taken significant actions to respond to the drought. As the drought continues, I am confident that the city will continue to focus on the areas that must be watered, and reduce or eliminate the watering of ornamental landscaping in other areas. We will see things change in our city.

While more action may be necessary, my question for you is what have you done, and what more can you do?

If you want to know what you can do, please contact the water district in your area. The website for the Contra Costa Water District is www.ccwater. com and the website for the East Bay Municipal Utility District is www. ebmud.com.

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Enjoy a special wine tasting event throughout downtown Walnut Creek!

Receive a complimentary wine glass and map at the starting location, City Hall in Walnut Creek, 1666 N. Main St., and begin your tour of your favorite wineries! The Wine Walk features wine tastings in downtown shops, restaurants, and businesses, and fun prize drawings. Enjoy the beauty and unique experience of downtown Walnut Creek, all at your own pace! Must be 21 or older to participate. Tickets are $30 online through Eventbrite using the Walnut Creek Downtown website: www.walnutcreekdowntown.com. Ticket sales will end on June 17 at 11:00am. Tickets are also available at Mechanics Bank 1350 N. Main St. and Walnut Creek Downtown 1666 N. Main St., ground floor.

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Fountains Temporarily Go Dry

The city of Walnut Creek is doing its part to conserve water by temporarily turning off the public fountains, including the fountain head on Main Street and the fountain in front of Il Fornaio Restaurant, on Broadway. According to Gayle Vassar, communications & outreach manager for the City of Walnut Creek, “The fountains will go back on as soon as we have the ‘recycled & recirculating water’ signs made.”

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Final ‘Conversation with the Mayor’ Mayor Bob Simmons wraps up the six-month “Conversation with the Mayor” program with a final gathering on Tuesday, June 9, at the Shadelands Arts Center auditorium, 111 N. Wiget Lane. The program begins at 7pm.

The goal of the “Conversations with the Mayor” is to provide an opportunity for residents to interact with the mayor in a low-key setting. Since February, Simmons has met community members in a variety of locations throughout Walnut Creek, including Heather Farm Community Center, the downtown library, the Elks Club Lodge in the Creekside neighborhood, Rossmoor, and the Lindsay Wildlife Museum.

“I hope people will come and share what’s on their minds,” said Mayor Bob Simmons. “I won’t be giving a prepared presentation; instead, this is intended as an opportunity for citizens to come and talk with the mayor about Walnut Creek.”

SUMMER 2015 Visit our website to register now!

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Pedestrian Master Plan

A draft of the Walnut Creek Pedestrian Master Plan is available for public review on the Walnut Creeks Walk website, www.wcwalks.org. There is still time to provide your feedback to city staff. Public comments will be received through Friday, June 19, 2015. The Pedestrian Master Plan (PMP) is the first citywide planning effort focused on making walking in Walnut Creek safer, easier, and more popular. Particular attention will be paid to improving access to schools, transit, and within the downtown, as well as to open space areas, parks, and neighborhood shopping centers. The planning effort relies on the public’s involvement to help shape the PMP. You may also contact Jeremy Lochirco, senior planner at the city at (925) 943-5899 ext. 2251.

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visit:www.dvc.edu/college4kids ourcommunityfocus.com • june 2015

15

As Russ Sees It

Is it Just Me? De La Salle High School, Diablo Valley College & Pleasant Hill Middle School Pools

BY RUSS CARROLL

Recently I watched a commercial for a dating site. The site was specific to “farmers’” (which, in itself is a bit creepy) dating needs and was clearly designed to bring together folks that have similar interests. This is awesome… I wish I had thought of it.

However, let’s pump the brakes just a bit. The ad that I saw displayed a guy stating: “I’ve been around livestock all my life. I knew exactly what I was looking for.” He then hugs a nice looking gal on the couch next to him. “Around livestock all my life?” Is he looking for a date or a new cow? Is he speaking to the fact that he can recognize quality livestock or that he is sensitive and perceptive? The women I know in my life would have hit me in the face and run from the couch. Maybe I should

SUBMIT A STORY Have something to share?

Deadline for submissions is the second Friday of each month. info@ourcommunityfocus.com

pretend to be a farmer. If a gal hangs around after the “livestock” comment, I may want in on this deal.

I am standing in line at the local pet store. I have my dog on a leash. I am holding a bag of dog food. A lady goes by and asks in passing, “Is that your dog?” Inspector Clouseau responses raced through my mind. Being the gentleman I am, I simply replied in my best Clouseau accent, “What dog?”

I drive into the car wash line the other day where I sit behind 6-7 cars.

I wait 15 minutes or so. When I finally win the lottery and it is my turn with the genius that will determine my needs, he asks, “Car wash today?” Every bone in my body wanted to respond with, “No, I thought this is where I come for the drive through colonoscopy.” Seriously, I fasted for no reason?

Ok, never mind. While I am here, let’s get the car washed.

The check-out clerk asks, “Did you find everything OK?” “No, I still need a few items, but I thought I would go ahead and get in the check-out line.

Here is my list of missing items. Can you have someone run to get them for me?”

Insanity surrounds us. But…..that’s just how I see it.

Russell Carroll can be reached by email at russcarrollemail@gmail.com.

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During a new patient’s first visit, we allow sufficient time for a comprehensive L to R: Hazel (Hygienist), Dr. Janet Concepcion-Manalo examination. We take diagnostic radio- (Dentist), Francesca (Treatment Coordinator) graphic images and intraoral photos and then discuss your dental health and goals before proceeding with any treatment.

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Coming from a family of dental practitioners, Dr. Concepcion-Manalo is well acquainted with the profession’s demands for quality and excellence. Inspired by her parents, both dentists, she decided to carry on the family legacy and earned her doctorate degree in dental medicine from Manila. In 2000, she worked alongside her parents as an associate dentist and was involved in dental and medical outreaches within various communities around the country. In 2001, she decided to broaden her horizons and moved to New York City. While there, Dr. Concepcion-Manalo was privileged to have worked with some of the most well respected names in the field of dentistry. In 2003, she volunteered her dental services by joining World Missions New York during one of their outreaches in Kingston, Jamaica. She received further training at UCLA (2004, 2007 in Restorative Dentistry) and earned her license to practice in the State of California in 2007. From the moment she decided to pursue dentistry, Dr. Janet ConcepcionManalo has been committed to providing the highest standard of dental care possible for all her patients. She continues to improve her knowledge and skills as a dental professional by attending seminars and conferences as well as utilizing the latest technologies in the field of dentistry. Dr. Concepcion-Manalo resides in Martinez with her husband and two daughters.

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17

In the Mix - Outdoor Music

“Summertime and the Livin’ is Easy” Yep!

BY PAUL COTRUVO

‘Tis the season for the summer concerts series in our neck of the woods.

Over the years, many of our local cities have stepped up to the plate and brought fantastic entertainment for our listening or dancing pleasure. Usually held in local parks or downtown venues, the popularity of free outdoor concerts has grown over the years. They have become great meeting places to catch up with friends and neighbors or just hang out with the family and expose the youngsters to live music.

For example, at the Pleasant Hill Sunset by the Lake Concert Series, you can listen or dance on the “dance lawn” or hang in the back with the kids and play some catch. These events are truly family friendly. So grab a blanket and a picnic basket and check out some of

the best local talent. Here’s a little guide and some recommendations:

Sunset by the Lake Summer Concert Series always has great bands, and this year is no exception. They’re held on the lawn in front of City Hall (corner of Gregory and Cleaveland), every other Sunday, 6 - 8pm. Some of the highlights this year are: Sunday Paper on June 7, The Fundamentals on June 21, MoFo Party Band on August 2, East Bay Mudd on August 30, and closing out the series on September 6, (a gratuitous plug for my band), The Big Jangle.

The annual Pleasant Hill Blues and Brews Festival will be July 18.

Held at Pleasant Hill Park from noon – 6pm, this event is always a great time.

This year’s lineup features The Chris Cain Band, Frankie G & The Conviction, Spinout, Caroompas Room, and The Used Blues Band.

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ing Concerts in the Grove Series on Saturdays, 6:30 – 8:30pm. Some of the highlights of this annual event are: The Boys of Summer on June 6, Mustache Harbor on June 20, Loose Blues on July 18, and Forejour on August 29.

If you can’t wait until the weekend, Thursday nights have been thrown into the mix. The 27th Annual Music and Market Series in Todos Santos Plaza in downtown Concord always offers a wide range of music. Catch the legendary David LaFlamme on June 11, the all-girl tribute to Led Zeppelin, Zepparella, on July 9, and a great Michael Jackson Tribute Band, Foreverland, on August 20. These shows start at 6:30pm.

Over in Moraga there’s music on Thursday evenings, 6:30– 8:30pm, at the Moraga Commons Park off of Moraga Blvd. Some of this year’s highlights

are Stealin Chicago on July 23 and The Spazmatics on August 13.

Starting June 18, every third Thursday in Downtown Pleasant Hill off Crescent Drive, there will be live music, 6:30– 8:30pm. Friday nights over in Martinez, the annual Friday’s on the Main and Market is held 6 - 8pm. This one is fun because it also features a car show.

Let’s just say there are many diverse and fun shows to see. I’m positive I’ve left out some great events -- so much to see and so little time. Make sure you check out each city’s local website for more information, and I will see you out there! Go out and support local music!

Quote of the Month: “It’s a smile, it’s a kiss, it’s a sip of wine … its summertime!”

-Kenny Chesney

Paul’s Picks

June 7: The Sunday Paper, Pleasant Hill Summer by the Lake Concert Series, City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill, 6pm June 10: The Hopeful Romantics, Armando’s, 707 Marina Vista, Martinez, 8pm June 12: Alvon Johnson, Armando’s, 707 Marina Vista, Martinez, 8pm June 18: The Big Jangle, Downtown Pleasant Hill on Crescent Drive, 6:30pm June 21: The Fundamentals, Pleasant Hill Summer by the Lake Concert Series, City Hall 100 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill, 6pm June 27: Jinx Jones, Back 40 BBQ, 100 Coggins Drive, Pleasant Hill, 6pm

JUNE SPECIAL BREAKFAST & LUNCH

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june 2015 • ourcommunityfocus.com

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Team Chelsea Champs

Rowing Victory

Congratulations to Pleasant Hill Martinez Soccer Association’s U12 Boys Select Team Chelsea, for the championship win at the President Day’s Cup tournament in Cupertino. Chelsea finished their first day of the tourney with 1 win and 2 draws. The second day of the tourney was a challenge as they faced their opponents. Despite no subs for the first game, they played hard and won (2-1), and the second game ended in a penalty kick shootout (ending score was 6-5). Chelsea came out strong against the talented Crushers in the championship, finishing the game with a 6-3 victory.

The Oakland Strokes Rowing team, one of the top clubs in the nation, took 2nd place, in both the Novice 8-man and the 4-man boats (missing gold by less than 1.5 seconds) at the U.S. Rowing Southwest Regional Regatta recently held in Sacramento. Two of the team members, seniors from College Park High School, both began the sport just last September and have been recruited to join rowing teams in San Diego in the fall. Kevin Forsyth committed to UCSD and Justin Stokes to USD.

Pictured front row (L to R): Finn Morabe, Jesse Dalton, Sebastian Fowler, Zachary Perez, Jamie Alderman. Back row (L to R): Coach Dante Morabe, Adam Hassouneh, Samuel Gruen, Malik Hassouneh, Liam Williams, Jack Watkins and Coach Seth Watkins. Coach Paul Taheney is not pictured. Photo and article submitted by Shareena Fowler.

Pictured front to back: Nikita Lilchenko (Miramonte), Kevin Forsyth and Justin Stokes (College Park) and Brandon McWilliams (St. Mary’s High School). Photo by Alice Forsyth.

ourcommunityfocus.com • june 2015

19

Growing in Popularity

Carondelet #1 in State

In just the third year of the College Park HS Girls Lacrosse program, seventy-three girls came out to play. CP was able to field varsity, JV and frosh/soph teams.

The varsity team earned third place in DVAL and qualified for NCS for the first time with a No.12 seed. Molly Ferrari (11) and Brooke Bechter (10) earned First Team AllDVAL. Cassidy Vaughn (12) and Kelly Seto (10) were selected for Second Team All-DVAL and Ashley McCormack (12) and Maddy Gorham (10) were selected as Honorable Mention players for DVAL.

Coach Andy Alkire said, “We lost in the first round of the NCS playoffs but were very happy to have the opportunity to participate. We finished the season with a 12-10 record. We will miss our graduating seniors but are very excited about all our returning players.”

Carondelet’s Mikayla Scott (10), Christina Chenault (12), Julianna Ruotolo (11) and Avery Avina (11) ran the 4 x 400m relay at the Sacramento Meet of Champions, May 2, at American River College in Sacramento with a winning time of 3:46.24, securing first place in state and ranking 12th in the nation.

This photo was taken at the Arcadia Races in April. Pictured (LtoR): Mikayla Scott (10), Avery Avina (11), Christina Chenault (12), and Julianna Ruotolo (11). Submitted by Gina Ruotolo.

College Park JV Lacrosse

The College Park Falcons Men’s JV Lacrosse team finished their season on May 5th with an 11-4 record. The Falcons started their season on February 28th at the Baggtagway tournament at Alhambra High School. College Park took 2nd place with wins against Campolindo, De La Salle & Clayton Valley. The Falcons scored 116 goals in the regular season with 47 goals scored against them. Submitted by Lia McCormick.

Graduating seniors top row, L to R): Ashley McCormack, Olivia Alkire, Cassidy Vaughn, Angelica Rodriguez, Paige Latson, Megan Alkire. Bottom row: Kelsey Hall, Alexis Marnofski, Kendal Stoudt and Genesis Cassidy.

Bulldogs Break Records

Alhambra swimmers set four new school records at the DFAL Championships in May at Campolindo High School. Sophomore Mackenzie Duarte broke the girls team record in the 100-yard breast stroke (1:07.23), and freshman Tony Moore broke the boys 100-yard breast stroke team record (59:54). The Alhambra girls powerhouse relay team of Maddie Buck, Mackenzie Duarte, Julia Paulazzo, and Jamie Wanket broke both the medley relay (1:56.89) and freestyle relay (1:43.06) records.

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Champs at First CIF State Swim Meet Northgate Wins Men’s Title and Ranks 1st and 2nd in Nation

The year 2015 will be remembered as one of historic importance for the Northgate High School Men’s swim team. When the season began they returned to the pool as defending North Coast Champions that graduated only one scoring athlete from the 2014 squad. During the season the team trained at Clarke Swim Center at Heather Farm Park while they anxiously awaited the completion of their new pool on campus.

The season was historically significant in that two weeks before it ended, the pool that will now be their home, was finally opened. It was historic in that multiple school records were set, and

because the team not only defended their North Coast title, they also went on to win the first ever CIF California State Swimming Championship Meet held May 22-23 in Clovis CA. Notable State meet results include: 200 Medley Relay- Calvin Kirkpatrick, Stanley Wu, Mason Tittle, Max Bottene 1:30.45 School and State meet record (1st, currently ranked #2 in the nation) 200 Freestyle Relay- Calvin Kirkpatrick, Stanley Wu, Erik VanBrocklin, Tate Lloyd 1:25.80 (8th) 400 Freestyle Relay- Mason Tittle, Calvin Kirkpatrick, Erik VanBrocklin, Max Bottene 3:00.58 School and State meet record (1st, currently ranked 1st in the

nation) Erik VanBrocklin- 200 freestyle 1:38.44 (9th), 500 freestyle 4:26.68 (2nd, school record) Mason Tittle- 50 freestyle 20.45(3rd), 100 Butterfly 48.54 (5th school record) Max Bottene- 100 freestyle 46.10 (8th), 100 Backstroke 51.01 (14th) Stanley Wu- 100 Breast 56.11 (5th)

Calvin Kirkpatrick- 100 Backstroke 50.09 (11th)

Many of the athletes participating in this seasons success will be graduating and moving on to swim in college next year, Mason Tittle, Calvin Kirkpatrick and Erik VanBrocklin will all be teammates at UC Santa Barbara and Stanley Wu will attend the University of Florida.

CP Alum Goes Pro Philadelphia Eagles Sign Raciti

On May 2, the Philadelphia Eagles announced they signed College Park 2010 graduate, Travis Raciti. According to PhillyVoice writer Jimmy Kempski, “The Eagles showed interest in him during the pre-draft process, and made him a priority undrafted free agent signing.” Travis Raciti played in 49 games (45 starts) for the San Jose Spartans as a defensive tackle and was one of just seven players in school history to serve as a team captain in multiple seasons (2013, 2014). Raciti was a two-time all-conference performer and tied for 10th on the San Jose State career list, with 27 tackles for a loss.

The three-time academic all-conference honoree also racked up 14.5 sacks in his career and graduated with a degree in business management.

Raciti attended College Park High School, where he was an all-state selection and played fullback, tight end, middle linebacker, defensive end, defensive tackle, and long snapper.

PRO DAY RESULTS: • 40-yard dash: 5.06 seconds • Vertical jump: 31’ 1/2” • Broad jump: 8’10” • Short shuttle: 4.66 seconds • 3-cone: 7.52 seconds • Bench: 21 reps of 225 pounds

Pictured (LtoR) Calvin Kirkpatrick, Erik VanBrocklin and Mason Tittle

NCS Tri-Valley Track

Several athletes from College Park participated in the NCS Tri-Valley Track meet on May 23. Many of the performances were personal bests. Most notably, junior David Phair, who won the 800 meter race in a time of 1:55.84 and sophomore Noah Hurley who placed fifth in the pole vault with a height of 13-00.

Additional NCS track and field results include: Northgate’s Nick Makrakis (1st place triple jump, 43-04.50; 4th place long jump 21-01.00) and Dylan Alves (3rd place triple jump, 43-01.50). Alhambra’s Jackson Norried (5th place high jump, 6-00), Raleigh Adams (1st place 110mH, 14.54 and 2nd place 300mH, 39.41), Marissa D’Atri (6th place 800m, 2:19.07) and Michael Viano (8th place 1600m, 4:26.73). These athletes will compete in the Meet of Champions at Cal Berkeley with the hopes of qualifying for the CIF State Meet on June 5 - 6. DVAL Track and Field MVP’s were awarded to Northgate’s Nick Makrakis and Sonja Chesnutt. ourcommunityfocus.com • june 2015

21

In the Garden

Heirloom Tomatoes are Summer Favorites

BY LESLEY STILES

We had no winter, so it comes as no surprise that June is upon us so soon…not!

How did that happen, again? School’s almost out, vacation time looms heavy, days are slowing down a bit, and, best of all, traffic is reduced to a simmer for a couple months.

Another year and “easy living” season bursts upon the scene with a seemingly illegal abundance of cherries, strawberries, and sexy stone fruits such as white and yellow nectarines, white and yellow peaches, apricots, and plums. Early peppers and

even early corn are all bowing tables at the farmers’ markets, crowding out winter squash and asparagus as their season wanes. Best of all, tomato season begins with Early Girls and Better Boys galore, crowding heirlooms that flood into markets while heavily pulling down delicate vines in gardens.

Heirloom tomatoes are a piece of the past we are fortunate and privileged to relive each summer. Seeds are passed down from year to year, unscathed by human gene splicing or scientific altering.

They may require a wee bit more love to ripen, and huge harvests are not the most common characteristic, but the intensity

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of the flavors is certainly a mind-blowing experience, as they come with incredibly different flavors and textures to suit any palate. With a Lemon Boy you actually taste hints of tart, yellow lemons. The names of tomatoes are always fun. Mortgage Lifter never fails to induce a smile and a thought for the farmer who paid his mortgage with his tomato crop.

Plucked from warm vines or purchased from a hard working farmer and eaten as juice drips down your arm, these dazzling fruits are a proven method of intoxication. Try a nice summer salad of peeled, seeded cucumber (lemon cukes go well with Lemon Boys), cubed avocado, crumbled goat cheese, and sliced assorted heirlooms in a bowl. Drizzle with really good extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle rice vinegar to taste. Then, toss with a handful of fresh chopped basil; historical beauties deserve dressing up in high fashion.

Thickly sliced fresh tomatoes on toasted sourdough slathered lasciviously with mayonnaise and a liberal sprinkling of sea salt creates a sandwich that causes a stutter and the need to catch your breath. Adding a slice of dill Havarti and slipping under a broiler or onto a hot grill for a few minutes is to experience the ultimate tomato gratin.

Caprese salad uses colorful coins of sweating, juicy, shockingly colored heirloom cherry and large tomatoes, glistening fresh mozzarella, gently torn basil leaves drizzled with lemon oil, and a generous sprinkling of salt and pepper to assure your status at any potluck. Heat olive oil in a sauté pan on medium heat; add copious amounts of chopped fresh tomatoes (seeds, skin and all, dang it), basil, and chopped fresh garlic; toss with steaming, hot, cooked vermicelli, and grated asiago; and season with salt and pepper to achieve the best pasta ever produced in your kitchen. Then consume al

MAY 2 thru NOV 14

fresco with unctuous red wine in our early summer in amazingly brilliant Diablo Valley land. Something to be grateful for indeed.

Time again to get up along with the sun to experience our hills and valleys, before said solar playmate aces you out with heat intensity, and enjoy the awakening of local creatures large and small.

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.

Fresh Corn and Tomato Risotto INGREDIENTS 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 red onion, chopped fine 4 cloves of garlic, chopped 2 cups Aborio rice 1 cup white wine 7 to 8 cups vegetable or chicken stock 2 cups fresh corn cut off the cob 1 cup chopped fresh heirloom tomatoes, your choice ½ bunch chopped fresh basil Kosher salt & freshly ground pepper to taste Manchego cheese for grating on top DIRECTIONS In a medium saucepan, heat the stock.

Heat olive oil in a wide heavy pan. Add the onion and garlic. Sauté for a few minutes and add the rice. Sauté the rice until opaque in color. Add the wine and let simmer for a minute. Add the stock a ½ cup at a time, allowing it to absorb after each addition stirring constantly. The rice will become creamy. Taste occasionally to check for tenderness. Add tomatoes and basil and season with salt and pepper.

Garnish with cheese. Serve at once.

Serves 4 to 6

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Pair Up

Local Organic Mulch, Soil and Compost

Bourbon Bonanza

BY MARIA TERRY

Sometimes it’s nice to forgo the meal and just snack your way through the evening. Bourbon is a good choice of beverage to accompany this kind of dining. It is a terrific sipping spirit that gets its name from the House of Bourbon, which ruled France in the 16th century. Bourbon whiskey is most often associated with the American South, and legally it can be made anywhere in the US. It must be made from 51% corn and aged in new, charred oak barrels for some period of time. The barrel aging of bourbon gives it a smoky aroma and flavor.

Begin your sipping adventure with a Kentucky Apple Cocktail accompanied

by Down South Bruschetta. The cocktail combines tart hard cider with sweet

Down South Bruschetta INGREDIENTS 1 French baguette, sliced into thin rounds 4 oz. soft goat cheese 4-6 small-sized Campari or 2-3 mediumsized vine-ripened tomatoes, chopped ¼”dice ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped fine 1 clove garlic, crushed 1 cup apple cider Olive oil and kosher salt DIRECTIONS Simmer the cider in a small saucepan until it’s reduced to about 2 tablespoons; about 30 min. It will thicken a bit more as it cools.

Note: the reduction goes from liquid to hard candy in minutes.

Drizzle bread with olive oil and sprinkle with kosher salt. Bake in 200° oven for 15 minutes or until crunchy.

Mix tomatoes, basil and garlic and drizzle with olive oil. Season to taste with kosher salt.

Spread goat cheese on cooled crostini and top tomato mixture. Drizzle with cider reduction.

Yield: about 16 Crostini

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maple syrup. Both enhance the fruit and spice from the bourbon. Down South Bruschetta is crunchy with creamy, tangy cheese. The apple cider reduction will echo the flavors of the apple in the cider, and the sweet syrup will offset the acidity in the tomatoes and the cheese.

For your next bourbon beverage, try a quality straight bourbon to sip on the rocks and pair with some thin-sliced country ham. Make it into sandwiches or just eat it by the slice. A straight bourbon must be aged for more than two years, and it cannot have coloring, flavoring, or other spirits added. Ham and bourbon are known as “the perfect midnight snack” because the flavors of cinnamon and walnut in the bourbon complement the saltiness of country ham, which is smoked and salt-cured, not cooked.

To signal the end of the eating, bring out this Caramel Apple Pie sprinkled with Bourbon Smoked Sugar from Bourbon Barrel Foods (bourbonbarrelfoods.com).

Choose a small batch bourbon made from a blend of the finest bourbons the producer has to offer. Small batch bourbons are rich and smooth. You can serve them straight up or on the rocks if it is still warm outside. You’ll love the brown sugar and caramel flavors that you’ll find in both the pie and the beverage.

So, go on. Pair Up!

Maria Terry is a Certified Sommelier and Wine Educator in the San Francisco Bay Area, www.LaSommelierre.com.

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Kentucky Apple Cocktail INGREDIENTS 1 ounce bourbon 1 teaspoon pure maple syrup Dash Angostura bitters 4 ounces hard apple cider Fresh apple slice DIRECTIONS Fill a tall glass with ice cubes. Add bourbon, maple syrup, and bitters. Top with hard apple cider; stir gently. Garnish with a fresh apple slice.

Yield: 1 Drink

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Grad Announcements

Andrew Stone, College Park Congratulations on your graduation!

Looking forward to what the future holds for you and wishing you joy in all you do. We love you, Mom, Dad, Emily, Lauren and Caitlin

Dylan Carroll, College Park We are all so proud of you. Your academic efforts this year have been outstanding. Your future is bright and we can’t wait to watch it unfold. Congratulations. Mom, Dad, Ryan and Ally

Kevin Forsyth, College Park “Work hard in silence, let success be your noise.” Congratulations on your academic and athletic success. We are looking forward to watching you row for UC San Diego. Love Mom, Dad and Jason

Marissa Huie, College Park Congratulations! We’re so proud of your accomplishments and the person you’ve become! Anything is possible all you have to do is believe in yourself.

Lauren Burns, Campolindo Woo-Hoo! Congratulations! We are proud of you!! Hope you’ll always find yourself as happy and full of big, crazy dreams as you are today. Love, Mom, Dad and Abigail

Jaquelyn Medina, College Park Your accomplishments are due to your determination. We know your future at USF will be successful. We are very proud of you! All our love, Dad, Mom, Ruben, Alex, Klaryssa, Gaby

Kevin Crosno, College Park We are so very proud of you and your hard work and dedication to school and basketball! We can’t wait to watch you succeed academically and soar on the basketball court next year! Love, Mom, Dad, Andrew

Noah Fisher, College Park Congratulations Noah! We are so proud you and what you have accomplished at College Park. We know continued success and adventures await you at Cal Poly next year. Love always, Mom, Dad and Nelson

Carrie Hunter, College Park Congratulations! We are so proud of your accomplishments and know you are going to be successful in your next life chapter. Look out UCLA! Love Mom, Dad, Jackie and Bo

Justin Stokes, College Park We’re so proud of you and excited about your next venture, attending USD and being a part of their crew team. We know you are going to do great. Love you, Mom and Dad

Lauren Canale, College Park Your determination and hard work make us proud everyday and your academic achievements have been amazing! Can’t wait to see all the new experiences you’ll have at UC Davis. We love you! Dad, Mom and Jacob

Rebecca Kefer, College Park Becca, you have grown into a wonderful adult who is ready for the next chapter of life. Have a fabulous time at UCLA. Love, Mom, Dad, Jillie and Alex

24

june 2015 • ourcommunityfocus.com

High School Reunion

Pleasant Hill High School Class of 1970 & 1971 Class Reunion When: Saturday, August 15, 2015, 5 – 10 pm Where: Pleasant Hill Teen Center, 147 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill Cost: $35 per person includes Mexican Buffet Dinner and Cash Bar (Beer, wine, soda, water) Entertainment by the Tuneriders!

RSVP: Chris Crecilius. Checks made payable to PHHS Class of 1970 and mail to: Chris Crecilius, 1730 Ayers Road, Concord, CA 94521, no later than June 15, 2015.

Plan to continue visiting the next day at the annual PHHS All-Class Picnic at Pleasant Oaks Park beginning at 11:00am. Bring your own picnic lunch/beverages. Questions? Contact Alexis (Paschall) Friedhaber at alexisloveselvis@yahoo.com or (925)787-0839.

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Sean Campbell, College Park Congratulations Sean. We are proud of you and can’t wait to see what the future will hold for you. Love, Mom, Dad and Katie

Trace Bechter, College Park Trace, you make us proud every day in all you do! We look forward to watching your continued success at UCLA. Love, Mom, Dad, Brett, and Brooke

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COMMUNITY FOCUS ONLINE Sean Taheri, College Park It’s been so fun watching you play basketball for CP. We’re so proud of the young man you’ve become and excited for your future at Chico State! Love, Mom, Dad and Ryan

Zachary Christman, Alhambra High We are so proud of who you are and what you have achieved. The stars shine bright for your future Zach. We love you and know your father is proud too! Love, Mom and Katie

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A NCAA Signing Day Ceremony was held at College Park to recognize the following Spring 2015 athletes who will be playing their sport in college next year: Preston Kilwien, soccer at Florida Gulf Coast; Katrina Guytingco, basketball at Ateneo de Manila University; Alexandra Gonzalez, soccer at Sonoma State; Jackie Scharff, soccer at Sonoma State; Justin Stokes, crew at University of San Diego; and Kevin Forsyth, crew at UC San Diego.

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25

Alhambra Gets the Gold Gold Ribbon School Award

On May 5, State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson announced that 193 middle schools and 180 high schools have been honored under the state’s new Gold Ribbon Schools Awards Program, which is temporarily taking the place of the California Distinguished Schools Program. The schools honored in our community are: Alhambra High, Martinez Junior High, Foothill Middle, M. H. Stanley Middle, Las Lomas High and Concord High.

Schools applied for the award in January, based on a model program their school adopted that includes standardsbased activities, projects, strategies, and practices that can be replicated by other local educational agencies. The new award is recognizing middle and high schools this year and elementary schools in 2016.

Alhambra High School Principal Tom Doppe spoke with the Focus about their model program and the distinguished award.

CF: What model program earned Alhambra the title of California Gold Ribbon School?

TD: The program had to show how we are getting ready for Common Core State Standards and making that transition.

What we chose was more school wide and involved our 1:1 computing, where every student is provided with one Internet enabled Chromebook. They are to maintain the device and bring it to school every day.

CF: How do 1,200 high school students use a Chromebook for 1:1 computing?

TD: We use them for blended learning, from traditional classroom instruction to

online learning. We are trying to use technology to support and enhance instruction in the classroom. All of our students have Google accounts that give them the Google education suite, including Google Docs. We have a learning management system called Haiku that allows for Dropbox functionality, where students can work collaboratively; it allows students to extend their learning outside of the classroom. When our district brought forward the vision for 1:1 learning and computing in the classroom, there were four focus areas: collaboration; students were going to have real world experiences; different forms of online assessment; and digital citizenship that will prepare them for the workplace.

CF: What are the expectations for the teachers and students?

TD: We’ve never set an expectation for the amount of minutes, the amount of assignments, and the amount of time that students were on the Chromebooks, whether in school or at home. I’ve never administratively set that. We want teachers to have them as a known factor in the backpack so that as they create assignments knowing that it’s a given as much as pencil and paper. When they found opportunities to enrich the learning experience, enhance and support it through technology, they are able to do that. Some of our teachers use it more than others, and that’s okay.

CF: How is this program funded?

TD: A portion of the Measure K bond money was used to furnish computers and other electronic equipment. Currently at the

middle school, in all of the core classrooms, there are enough computers for every student to use in the classroom. In the 20152016 school year, every elementary school in the district will have a form of 1:1 computing in the fourth and fifth grade. The classroom will become a more dynamic place because of the technology. This award recognizes years of planning and hard work that the district has put forward to create a budget for the devices; they have a vision for how it would be distributed and implemented.

CF: How have the parents and community responded to the Chromebooks?

TD: I would like to recognize the support of the community. This is something progressive and we have had some parents who were skeptical, but in large part we really have seen a lot of support from the

community and I’d like to show our gratitude for that.

Student Viewpoint The Focus wanted to get the perspective of an Alhambra student who used the Chromebook for the first time this year.

Sophomore Katie Christman said, “I used the Chromebook mainly in English and history and I did use it everyday. I think the main problem for kids having the computers is they can get distracted with games and shopping, and it does make my eyes tired, but it’s definitely a great tool for us.

There have been technology issues with the Internet and sometimes teachers have to throw out assignments because of it.

But I like that all students have access to a computer and we can find the information we need. Overall, I think we should feel blessed to have it and get it for free because not all schools do this.”

MDEA Academy Awards

Hundreds gathered at Centre Concord on Thursday, May 14, to honor members of the Mt. Diablo Unified School District community that have made outstanding contributions. Nomination forms were sent out early February, then collected and tabulated by the Academy Awards Committee in March. Thirteen individuals were honored for outstanding service to the students. Teachers were honored for Creative Curriculum, Leadership, Courage, Most Inspirational, Community Involvement, and Lifetime Achievement.

There were also awards for Classified Employees, Administrators, Parent Volunteers, and Students. Gregory Gardens Principal Cheryl Kolano won for Outstanding Administrator and Valhalla’s Ken Ruiz took the award for Classified Employee at a School Site.

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 26

june 2015 • ourcommunityfocus.com

Gregory Gardens Principal Cheryl Kolano (standing, right) with her mom and step dad (seated) and family friend (standing).

Photo Credit: Darien Rule.

Art Contest Winner Afterschool Sports I Want to Hold Your Pizza

New Program at Middle Schools

BY JAKI JONES

Last March, Zachary’s Pizza announced it’s biennial art contest. To date, over 300 pieces of Zachary’s pizza art adorn the walls in all four restaurants. Pleasant Hill resident Katia Novak was recently selected as one of the winners for the second time. In 2011, Katia’s entry in the Zachary’s Art Contest placed her as one of three winners of the Zachary’s Young Artist Award.

Her “Hooked on Zachary’s” entry, currently hanging in the Oakland location, depicts a mermaid reaching for a slice of pizza attached to a hook on a fishing line. This time, the 19-year-old artist pays homage to the Beatles. The acrylic piece features the Fab Four floating in the sky surrounded by pizza slices. She added speech bubbles for John, Paul, George, and Ringo as a punny addition that references popular Beatles songs.

A committee was formed in November 2014 to explore a middle school sports program with the mission to “Engage students, parents, and community members in a safe and fun program of sports to prepare students for successful, healthy living.” Committee members include community representatives, middle school administrators, Principal of Valley View Middle School Ean Ainsworth, Principal of Foothill Middle School April Bush, an after school program manager, and district administrators. The committee met monthly through May 2015. One of the goals of this free program is to increase student engagement and opportunities for participation in extra-curricular and co-curricular activities for all middle school students.

A presentation was made at the May 18 MDUSD board meeting that specified the program will include uniforms, equipment, and, after surveying over 400 students, consist of four sports: soccer, flag football, basketball, and another TBD. Two co-ed teams will be formed for each sport with grade 6/7 and 7/8 combinations, except basketball, which will have 2 girls and 2 boys teams. Teams will be transported by district transportation, and games will be officiated by contracted officials. School teams will practice twice a week and play another school on the third day. A school site coordinator, along with the principal, will oversee this program, and coaches will be recruited from the site staff. The board unanimously approved the sports program, and funding will come out of the LCFF (Local Control Funding Formula) Budget.

The astonishing part is that she did not begin the project until two days before the deadline. “I knew about the contest for over a month and was just waiting for inspiration to strike. A few days before it was due I was reading this book I had on the Beatles and it kind of sparked, ‘why not just do the Beatles?’ I’m pretty much obsessed with them, actually. It was an obvious choice; it just took me awhile to realize that I should do it,” she said.

A complete list of Zachary’s Pizza Art Contest winners will be announced June 1 on their website. You can look for Katia’s Beatles painting hanging at the Pleasant Hill or Oakland location soon. Katia is headed to San Francisco State next fall, where she will pursue her passion for art, fashion and film.

You can view more of Katia’s art on her Tumblr page, katianovak.tumblr.com.

High School News

Alhambra Hires New VP

Alhambra High School welcomes new vice principal Chris Clausen. He is currently vice principal at Diablo View Middle School in Clayton. He will officially fulfill his position at Alhambra on July 1. Clausen replaces Michael DeFrancesco, who went to Martinez Jr. High as principal earlier this year.

Northgate Jazz Produces First CD

Northgate High School Jazz has produced their first-ever CD that combines 10 top-notch tracks from the jazz band over the years 2009-2015, with Greg Brown as music director.

The CD sells for $15. All proceeds from the CD sales go directly to benefit the instrumental music program at Northgate HS. For more information on how to get a copy of the CD, visit: www.northgatehs-pfc.com/nimb.html.

in July

ourcommunityfocus.com • june 2015

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SUPPORTING OUR LOCAL

Proudly Sponsored by Les Schwab Martinez

ORGANIZATIONS

MEF Run Logo Chosen The Martinez Education Foundation is pleased to announce the winners of its contest to design the artwork for the 13th Annual Shell/ MEF Run for Education, October 4, 2015. Students from Alhambra High School, Martinez Junior High School, Las Juntas, John Muir, John Swett, and Morello Park submitted 101 T-shirt logo entries. Thank you to all the students who participated. All of the designs were very creative, making the decision extremely tough. Dallen Graham from Alhambra won the overall award for his design, which will be used on the run’s T-shirts and publicity. Four runner-up designs were also selected: Randy Bright and Jeremy Abraham from Alhambra; Hawraa Aljanabi from Martinez Junior High; and Gloriana Alba from John Muir Elementary.

All selected designs will be on display at the MUSD office. The annual run is a popular community event that raises money for Martinez Unified School District Schools. Mark your calendar for October 4, 2015.

9th Annual Car and Bike Show On Sunday, May 17 the 9th Annual Les Schwab Car and Bike Show was held to benefit the Martinez Unified School District. Hot-Rod Hoodlums of Martinez and The Saints hosted the event. Admission was free and over 20 vendors and 150 car owners participated.

Garageland Rodeo provided the musical entertainment. One hundred percent of the proceeds from the annual show went to benefit Martinez students, with $1,000 going to Alhambra High School grad night and over $1500 going to the Martinez Education Foundation.

Pictured are: Terry Wygal representing AHS grad night, Les Schwab, Martinez owner, Dwayne Glemser, Charles Spencer with The Hot Rod Hoodlums and Executive Director Jason Botting.

Jenna Betti Memorial Tournament The Diablo FC soccer club is hosting its 2nd Annual Jenna Betti Memorial Tournament on August 15 – 16, 2015. It is to be held in Concord as well as some of the best fields throughout the East Bay and Diablo Valley.

This summer event for female soccer players is set to provide excellent competition with multiple brackets for ages 12 through 19. The event is in memory of Jenna Betti, who was part of the Diablo FC G99 family. She tragically passed away in March of 2014. Through this beloved sport she shared a special bond with her family and also her teammates whom she loved. Diablo FC is committed to this annual celebration of Jenna’s life and hope this event will continue to remind our community of the value sports has in our children’s lives and the joy and positive connections it brings them. How to Apply: www.hersmile.org.

Pictured are Jack Funk, Dallen Graham and Diane Beck.

FREE PRE-TRIP CAR CHECK Tires, Alignment, Brakes, Battery, Struts/Shocks, Tire Air Pressure

VISIT US AT:

www.lesschwabmartinez.com

Dwayne Glemser Manager

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3800 Alhambra, Martinez • (925)370-6382

june 2015 • ourcommunityfocus.com

No purchase necessary, must present coupon.

SENIOR CALENDARS SPONSORED BY:

Linda J. Weihofen

Reverse Mortgage Specialist 925.348.4267 • TALK2LW@yahoo.com Helping you to understand the NEW Reverse Mortgage

Martinez Senior Activities 818 Green Street, Martinez 925-370-8770

June 14 - Pancake Breakfast 8-11am. Pancakes or toast, sausage, eggs , orange juice and coffee. Everyone is welcome. Cost is $4.00 for adults/$2.50 for children 10 and under. Handmade crafts, perfect for gifts, will be on sale during the breakfast.

BART Tickets Did you know the Martinez Senior Center offers BART tickets? We have the green Senior BART ticket for adults 65 years and over, and the red BART ticket for children ages 5-12 years of age and persons with disabilities. Cost: $9 per ticket (value $24.)

Coming in July…

Catch Yourself- Maintain Your Independence Join us for this four-part class series, offered by John Muir Health Senior Services. K. Daly, an experienced adult education instructor and our Senior Jazzercise Instructor, will teach the sessions.

• July 6: Risk Factors for Falling, Individual Health Concerns &

Strengthening Exercises.

• July 10: The Activity Pyramid, Creating an Exercise Agenda

and Balance Exercises.

• July 13: Home Assessment, Medication Management,

and Stretching Guidelines.

• July 17: Maintaining Strong Bones, How to Fall (and get up),

and Strength Training

Community Foundation

The Pleasant Hill Community Foundation held its first annual Celebrate Your Community event on May 5 at the Pleasant Hill Community Center. It was a full house, with lots of supporters of the foundation, including Pleasant Hill Mayor Ken Carlson, members of the city council, members of the Rec & Park board, and a representative from Assemblywoman Susan Bonilla’s office. The foundation shared its story through a short video that explained its history and mission, along with photos of past grant recipients. It was a fun evening with lots of food and wine!

The foundation awarded community grants to the following programs: Adult Day Services Network of Contra Costa, College Park High School, Fair Oaks Elementary School, Friends of the Pleasant Hill Library, Hillcrest Congregational Church, Monument Crisis Center, Pleasant Hill Community Emergency Response Team, Pleasant Hill Rec & Park Teen Council, Pleasant Hill Rec & Park Kidstop Program, Rehabilitation Services of Northern California, Rodgers Ranch Heritage Center, Sequoia Elementary School, and Valley View Middle School.

If you would like to help the foundation fund these and more programs in the Pleasant Hill community, you can give through their website at www.PHCommunityFoundation.org.

Cost: $12 for the series. Limited to 25 participants.

4th of July Bingo Special – Thursday, July 2, 2015. Join us in celebrating the 4th of July with another “Special Bingo Day.” All regular games will have a $50 “pot” and prizes will be given out in between. Come join the party! We start selling the “packs” at 12pm. Games begin at 1pm.

EL TAPATIO

Pleasant Hill Senior Activities

JOIN US FOR HAPPY HOUR! MONDAY - FRIDAY 3 PM TO 6 PM SPECIALS ON HOUSE MARGARITAS & DRAFT BEERS FREE CHIPS AND SALSA TACO TUESDAY SERVED ALL DAY

233 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill 925-798-8788 June 5 - Senior Prom 5:30pm in SC Chateau Room. Want to go back in time to your high school prom? Here’s your chance! Dinner, dessert, photo booth and live music by the Paul Fontes Band. Tickets: $25 per person. Advanced ticket sales only (not available at door). Purchase tickets at Senior Center.

June 8 - FREE Planning for Social Security Retirement Benefits Workshop 6pm in the Chateau Room. This workshop provides valuable information on multiple strategies to potentially maximize your Social Security Retirement Benefits. Social Security is far more complicated than most people realize. The decisions made now can have an impact on the total amount of benefits you stand to receive over your lifetime. Topics covered: Spousal Benefits, Survivor Benefits and more. Please pre-register by calling the Front Desk at 798-8788.

authentic mexican restaurant

SUNDAY BRUNCH SERVED 10 AM - 2 PM

Open 7 Days: Mon - Sat 11AM - 9 PM • Sundays 10AM - 8PM

40 Golf Club RD., Pleasant Hill 925.676.2420 • WWW.ELTAPS.COM I’m not in trouble anymore!

I called Hire My Husband to take care of our “Honey Do List”!

Hire My Husband

2012, 2013 & 2014 Winner of the Angie's List Super Service Award 2014 Community Focus Readers’ Local Favorite

June 11 - CMP Series presents: “What is the Difference between Hospice and Palliative Care?” presented by Hopsice of the East Bay, 2pm in Senior Center dining room. Call (925) 798-8788 to reserve your spot, space is limited. Sponsored by the Chateaus of Pleasant Hill. For more info, call Dana Krider, Care Manager, at 798-8788.

• Interior Painting

June 16 - FREE Contra Costa Mosquito & Vector Control District Info 1pm in Chateau Room. Andrew Pierce, community affairs representative, provides valuable information about the district’s FREE services that are available to all C.C. county residents regarding mosquitoes, rats and mice, skunks, ground-nesting yellow jackets and ticks. Please pre-register by calling Senior Center or visiting the front desk.

• Handyman Services

• Quality Home Repair Projects Contractor Lic. # 943231

www.HireMyHusband.com

925-969-0133

ourcommunityfocus.com • june 2015

29

Earthquake Damage Read My Mind

©

Wow! A 3.6 Burst a Water Pipeline?

Pulp Fiction

BY JIM BONATO

The cause has not been determined, but was the water pipeline break in Walnut Creek on May 3, which happened around the same time as the 3.6 magnitude temblor on the Concord Fault, a coincidence? A 3.6 magnitude quake is considered relatively low-level, yet as we can intuit, even smaller quakes can affect major infrastructure. This ought to be instructive for all of us, particularly with respect to the Concord Fault, which doesn’t often get much attention in comparison to the San Andreas and Hayward faults.

What we locals need to be aware of is that geologists say the Concord Fault is “also capable of producing a catastrophic earthquake.” In a recent CC Times article, Matthias Gafni points out the possible impact to key facilities along the Concord Fault – not the least of which are five Bay Area refineries that process 40% of the state’s crude oil into usable fuels, a major fuel pumping station located directly above the fault, and the railroad and automobile bridges spanning the Carquinez Strait between Martinez and Benicia.

This infrastructure is vital on more than a local level. The pumping station pumps fuel through a pipeline from the refineries to service areas in the Central Valley stretching from Chico to Fresno.

Also served are seven military facilities and multiple public airports. Mr. Gafni states that a major quake on the Concord Fault could also buckle airport runways

BY MICHAEL G. HARRIS, OD

This month’s column is about “pulp fiction.” Not Quentin Tarantino’s 1994 movie starring John Travolta.

Rather, it’s the kind of popular fiction written for mass audiences that usually deals with “lurid and sensational subjects.” The term got its name because these books were printed on cheap “rough, low-quality paper manufactured from wood pulp.”

In this column, I’m using the term to describe the works by authors who churn out dozens of thrillers that are so similar, reading one is like reading another. Mind you now, I enjoy some of these escapist books and find many very entertaining. However, I generally don’t find them original, stimulating, or thought provoking. Let me give you some examples.

Perhaps the most prolific writer of this kind of fiction is James Patterson.

In the past decade alone, he has written over 100 books. Since 2011, he has published a dozen books a year. That’s one full-length book a month! I’m lucky if I can write one 600-word book review column a month!

Obviously, Patterson has help. In the recent past he has credited his numerous co-authors. Sure, he’s written different series with different heroes, including Alex Cross, Michael Bennett, Maximum Ride, and the Women’s Murder Club. I particularly enjoyed the creativity of the Maximum Ride series and it’s child heroes who are 98% human and 2% bird. (Yes, they can fly.)

I used to read all of his books, but soon found them to be repetitive and predictable. I had a hard time telling one book from another. While I’m no literary expert, what made Shakespeare a gifted playwright was that each of his works was original, different, and unpredictable. Not true with James Patterson novels.

Unfortunately, I feel the same about Clive Cussler, author of over 60 books, including the Dirk Pitt Adventures, the NUMA Files, and the Oregon File. If you’re looking for

and disrupt natural gas facilities that generate two-thirds of the Bay Area’s power.

If a 3.6 magnitude earthquake could cause a water pipeline to burst, what damage would a 6.0 earthquake bring to the region? Think for a second about how quickly we could recover if gasoline wasn’t available, major sources of power were interrupted, and transportation facilities to bring in aid were damaged. Are we prepared?

If you and your family or business would like to become better prepared, check out my previous articles at www. ourcommunityfocus.com under the Health and Wellness tab or go to www. ready.gov for some great tips.

In my May article, I promised to provide some websites to be better prepared for a major disaster such as a catastrophic earthquake. Here are some worthwhile websites to browse for great information: • USGS (great periodical: “Preparing Your Family for Earthquakes) www.earthquake.usgs.gov/pdr • Centers for Disease Control (yep, this is a good one) www.cdc.gov • Quakesmart (good for businesses) www.fema.gov/quakesmart • Safe-T-Smart (fasteners for business equipment and home items) www.safet-smart.com

For vendors of emergency supplies, Google “emergency preparedness supplies” for many great ideas and useful items to compile.

Jim Bonato is the Pleasant Hill CERT Program Manager.

Best Mechanic

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june 2015 • ourcommunityfocus.com

action-packed adventure with cool superheroes and devilish villains, Cussler’s books are the ticket. I used to be a big Cussler fan and really loved the adventures of Dirk Pitt and Al Giordino. I stopped reading Cussler when I realized that all his books were basically the same story.

Here’s how they go. Some ancient or historical artifact of colossal significance has been lost or stolen. The hero and his crew almost die rescuing a damsel in distress out of the clutches of an evil villain. Both the hero and the villain recognize the importance of the missing artifact and try to beat each other to its location. In the process, the hero’s crew dispatches most of the villain’s henchmen, while the hero just barely escapes death numerous times. In the end, the hero kills the villain, finds the missing artifact and returns it to its rightful owner, thus preventing some major worldwide catastrophe, and sails off into the sunset with the young damsel.

While not necessarily in the same genre, I have the same sense of déjà vu when I read books by Mary Higgins Clark, Danielle Steele, and Robert Ludlum. All are prolific authors whose books are certainly enjoyable, but definitely formulaic. Each has written over 50 books. Ludlum is such a prolific author that he was somehow able to write five books after he died in 2001.

Mind you, I’m not saying that pulp fiction is bad. I’m simply saying much of it is hackneyed and uninspiring. And just because you write lots of books doesn’t make you a great writer. Authors should be judged by the quality of their work, not the quantity.

Until her new book comes out next month, Harper Lee’s only novel was To Kill A Mockingbird. Next time you think about reading another book of pulp fiction, read it instead.

It will entertain, inform, and inspire you. And you won’t say to yourself, “Haven’t I read this before?”

PH Rec & Park

Upcoming Events and Activities Wine Women & Shoes Contra Costa Unlike Any Other Fundraiser in the County What do you get when you cross an elegant garden party with a fun, wild nightclub?

Wine, Women & Shoes! More than 300 fabulous guests came together on May 17 for the second annual Wine Women & Shoes luxury fundraiser in Contra Costa at the new Pleasant Hill Community Center. Guests shopped in a bountiful outdoor marketplace, sipped wines, nibbled on delicious food, tried on sexy shoes, mingled with friends and Shoe Guys and bid on one-of-a-kind auction items. Event proceeds benefit Pleasant Hill Recreation & Park District and Monument Crisis Center. Final results still pending.

Follow post-event coverage at facebook.com/wwscontracosta.

Register for 2015 SUMMER CAMPS! PH Rec offers a wide variety of preschool, youth and teen summer camps beginning in June through August 2015. Flexible full day and half-day recreation programs are available to fit your summer schedule. We also have many new and unique specialty camps to keep your child active and engaged this summer. Visit pleasanthillrec.com for details.

Family Camp Out on Father’s Day Weekend!

June 20: Check in is Sat. at 3pm and check out is Sun. at 10am at Pleasant Hill Park, 147 Gregory Lane.

Take Dad camping this Father’s Day! Join us as Pleasant Hill Park becomes Camp Pleasant Hill. Activities include: crafts, campfire with s’mores, music, and an outdoor movie. Hot dogs and hamburgers served for dinner and donuts, juice and coffee served for breakfast. Activities begin 4:30pm. $15/camper. Pre-register at pleasanthillrec.com.

SPLASH INTO SUMMER FUN! Pleasant Hill Aquatic Park Public Swim NOW OPEN. Spring Session: Now-June 14, Saturday, Sunday, 1-5pm. Summer Session: June 15-August 23, Mon-Thurs. 1:15-4:15pm and Fri., Sat. and Sun. 1-5pm. Facility includes: 25-yard pool with two diving boards, 20-yard shallow water training pool, sprayground, changing rooms with showers and restrooms and two picnic areas with BBQ pit/two tables. Call (925) 682-0896 for reservations.

FREE 6th Annual World’s Largest Swimming Lesson™ (4-15 yr old) June 18 at 10-10:30am (Check in at 9:30am) at PH Aquatic Park, 147 Gregory Lane. Join Pleasant Hill Rec as aquatic facilities around the world attempt to set a Guinness World Record TM for the world’s largest swimming lesson. Swimming is a life-saving skill for children and a vital tool to prevent drowning. Pre-register at pleasanthillrec.com.

FREE Pool Safety Day June 19 from 1-5pm at PH Aquatic Park, 147 Gregory Lane. Learn about pool safety from your local lifeguards, paramedics, firefighters and medical flight crew. Pools and sprayground will be open for public swimming.

Adult CORNHOLE Bag Toss Drop In Tuesdays 7-9pm at the Winslow Center, 2590 Pleasant Hill Rd. Try out the latest adult sports craze! Experienced players teach proper pitching techniques, rules and game strategies. $5 per person at door. Visit pleassanthillrecsports.com for info on Summer Cornhole play.

2015-2016 Pleasant Hill Preschool Registration for 2.6 years through Pre-K For more information, visit pleasanthillpreschool.com or call Preschool Director, Sarah Smith at (925) 676-5200 Ext. 626.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS! July 4 | Fun & Games in the Pleasant Hill Park. Free activities for the whole familiy.

Food/beverages available for purchase. Pool open at 11am.

July 17-18 | 6th Annual Blues and Brews Festival at Pleasant Hill Park, 147 Gregory Lane. Enjoy a day of live music and custom brew tasting. More info and beer tasting tickets available at bluesandbrewsfestival.com.

FAMiLY CAMP OUT! Join us as Pleasant Hill Park becomes “Camp Pleasant Hill!�

Saturday,June 20 A GREAT WAY TO INTRODUCE YOUR KIDS TO CAMPING! Includes activities, crafts, campfire with s’mores, music, and an outdoor movie.

Also includes hot dogs and hamburgers for dinner and donuts & coffee for breakfast.

Check-In: 3:00 pm; activities begin 4:30 pm; Check-out: Sunday,10 am Bring tent, sleeping bags, chairs, flashlight, snacks, change of clothes and personal items.

$15 per person

Register Now! pleasanthillrec.com or call (925) 682-0896 PLEASANT HILL RECREATION & PARK DISTRICT

Fun begins here!

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Register Now! pleasanthillrec.com | (925) 682-0896

ourcommunityfocus.com â&#x20AC;˘ june 2015

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Juneteenth Celebration Family Friendly Dance, Music & American History

BY TONYA AMOS

Grown Women Dance Collective and Aspire Pilates Center present their 6th annual Fallen Heroes, Rising Stars: A Juneteenth Celebration Through Dance on June 20 & 21.

The concert honors African American musical artists who have died since the year 2000, but will influence us for generations to come. This magical collective is comprised of retired professional dancers in their 40s and 50s, and a drummer in her 80s.

Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of African American liberation from slavery. The tradition dates back to June 19, 1865, when enslaved people in Texas were informed

by Union Soldiers, two and a half years after President Lincoln had signed the Emancipation Proclamation, that slavery

had “ended.” Today, Juneteenth celebrates African American freedom and encourages self-development and respect for all cultures.

The musical genius of Etta James, B.B. King, Michael Jackson, James Brown, and many others, combined with the marvel of “middle aged” dancers, twirling and soaring through space, and the telling of U.S. history through dynamic multimedia makes Fallen Heroes, Rising Stars a perfect marriage of the arts and education.

Crosscultural, cross-generational, and challenging the concepts of aging, this performance speaks to us about struggle, achievement and the common experiences that we all share as Americans.

Last year’s happy audience, ranging from sixteen months to ninety-five years old, found it difficult to contain their joy, surrendering to swaying and humming in their seats throughout the event. All leave the theater with huge smiles, beaming

Thursday, June 18, 2015

6pm-8pm

TH

R I A AL

HE N’S

ME

F

Pints Package $20 Donation includes beer, beer glass, and heavy hors d’ouevres.

‘Pints for Prostates’ is a 501c non-profit.

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june 2015 • ourcommunityfocus.com

that they are “proud to be American.” With so many people of different backgrounds brought together to celebrate history, music and dance, Fallen Heroes, Rising Stars speaks loud and clear to the power of art influencing who we are as human beings.

Fallen Heroes, Rising Stars: A Juneteenth Celebration Through Dance is presented at 8pm on June 20 and 2pm on June 21 at the California Theatre in Pittsburg. Former Alvin Ailey & Martha Graham dancers will teach a Master Dance Class Series in Concord. For more info or to purchase tickets, please call (925) 680-4400 or visit www.GrownWomenDance.org.

Grown Women Dance Collective was founded in 2009 to provide a positive and nurturing environment for mature female dancers to create beautiful work

that is relevant and accessible to diverse audiences. GWDC creates cross-cultural, cross-generational bridges through the arts, introduces concert dance to new audiences and underserved communities, and challenges the stereotypes of aging.

Tonya Marie Amos owns Aspire Pilates Center in Concord. For more information, please call (925) 680-4400 or go to www.

AspirePilatesCenter.com.

Urology News

Dr. Richard Long Joins Pacific Urology

Pacific Urology is pleased to announce the joining of Richard Long, MD, to their specialty group. Dr. Long is accepting new patients and will practice at Pacific Urology’s San Ramon, Concord, and Fremont locations.

For 15 years, Dr. Long practiced adult and pediatric urology in Bangor, Maine. He has extensive experience in robotic procedures and was a leader in launching the robotic program at Eastern Main Medical Center.

He moved his urologic practice to Fremont, California, in 2013. He serves as the vice chief of surgery at San Ramon Regional Medical Center and received the top urologist recognition from Oakland Magazine in 2014.

“I am very excited to join Pacific Urology’s large group and their parent company, Diablo Valley Oncology & Hematology Medical Group. Expanding to a group of seven urologists will allow each of us to focus more on our sub-specialty areas of interest, which will translate into even better care for our patients,” states Dr. Long.

Dr. Long’s areas of special interest are

minimally invasive robotic surgery, prostate cancer, and complex stone disease. “Robotic surgery expands the indications for laparoscopic surgery, allowing almost any surgery that used to be performed through an open incision to be done endoscopically. Overall, this results in shorter hospital stay, faster recovery, less blood loss, and (for some surgeries) better cancer control,” he continues.

Dr. Long earned his medical degree from the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis. He then completed a general surgery internship and urology residency at the University of Minnesota Hospital and Clinics in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Dr. Long is board certified by the American Board of Urology and is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons.

Pacific Urology is the surgical division of Diablo Valley Oncology and Hematology Medical Group. The multispecialty medical group specializes in treating urologic conditions and all forms of cancer and blood disorders. Locations include Walnut Creek, Concord, Pleasant Hill, San Ramon, Livermore, Antioch, Brentwood, and Fremont.

For questions or to make an appointment, call 925-937-7740.

P L E A S A N T

H I L L

C H A M B E R

O F

C O M M E R C E

It’s Your Business.

Consumers are more likely to do business with a company if it’s a member of their local chamber of commerce.

...and we’ve got thousands of potential customers for you!

Your business will benefit from the exposure it will receive as a sponsor of our upcoming events.

As a sponsor*, your business has an opportunity to receive the following:

Wine at the Plaza Concerts Downtown Pleasant Hill

Your logo on event banner and marketing material Display your promotional material ■ Personally meet hundreds of festival/concert-goers and promote your business ■ Your business recognized on Chamber website ■ 10’ x 10’ booth space reserved for your company ■ Tickets to give to your clients ■ ■

Sponsorship opportunities are limited, if interested, call us today!

925.687.0700

* As per event/sponsorship package

Fri. July 17 • Sat. July 18 “There’s no better way to let people know about what you do than to tell them! The Downtown Summer Plaza Concerts begin in June, Blues & Brews is around the corner in July and our biggest Pleasant Hill event, Art, Jazz & Wine Festival will be the first weekend in October!

PNC Mortgage Vitality Bowls Brightfern Specialty Foods Diamond City Jewelers Sequoia Signs & Graphics, LLC The Strong Agency - Farmers Insurance Dallimonti's Restaurant Waddell & Reed Financial Advisors Academy Mortgage Safe Home Anderson Organizing Severns Insurance - State Farm

Tom Stockl Mark Unterbach Bart Bright Rick Pedro Tom Schnurr Eric Strong Angela Warren Mike Chong Leanne Odom Cary Kennerley Connie Anderson Sallie Severns

(925) 330-4855 (925) 349-6845 (925) 381-4315 (925) 349-6200 (925) 300-1066 (925) 765-9096 (925) 944-5224 (925) 689-9600 (925) 229-0857 (925) 408-6224 (415) 412-3103 (925) 945-1541

Give us a call to find out how to promote your business to thousands of potential customers and have fun while you are doing it!”

Ann Luke President & CEO

91 Gregory Lane, Suite 11 • Pleasant Hill, CA 94523 • 925.687.0700

www.pleasanthillchamber.com

ourcommunityfocus.com • june 2015

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Make Some Plans june 2

june 5 & 7

june 15

june 20

Garden Club

Diablo Choral Concert

Sons in Retirement

Walking Tours

PH Garden Study Club Maryann Lewis presents “Aesthetic Pruning”. Free, guests welcome. 7pm, Pleasant Hill Community Center, 320 Civic Drive, PH. 925.944.4898 or www.phgsc.com.

Diablo Choral Artists present “Love,” featuring Johannes Brahms’ lovely Liebeslieder Waltzes. Mark Tuning, Music Director, John R.S. Walko, Accompanist.

6/5, 8pm, Mt. Diablo Unitarian Universalist Church, Walnut Creek; June 7, 3pm, St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, Orinda. Tickets: www.vmschorus.org.

Guests welcome at our monthly luncheon. Speaker, Duane Spencer, is one of the few forensic dental consultants in N. America and a member of State and Federal emergency response groups. 11:30am; lunch $15. Walnut Creek Elks Lodge, 1475 Creekside Dr. Reservations call 925.322.1160. www.Branch116.org.

june 6

june 15

Public Art Walking Tours Join the Bedford Gallery Docents on a guided walking tour of Walnut Creek’s wonderful public art collection. Tours start at 11am every third Saturday of the month and offer different routes throughout the year. Admission is $5 and includes a free pass to the Bedford Gallery.

Bedfordgallery.org/programs/walkingtours.shtml.

Basketball Tourney

World of Jazz Jam

The 4th Annual CF Shootout 3 on 3 Charity Basketball Tournament is being held to support the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and their mission to find a cure. Held Saturday at the DVC gym, 9am – 1pm, 321 Golf Club Rd, Pleasant Hill. Register a team at www.ourcommunityfocus.com/events/64107/3on-3-charity-basketball-tournament.

The World of Jazz Jam Players and singers in the Jazz realm are welcome: Jazz, R&B, Groove, New Orleans and Latin. Hosted by “All Of Us,” Craig Berletti: trumpet/organ/vocals, Harry Gold: guitar/vocals, Aaron Hipschman: drums, Eric Price: bass. Armando’s, 707 Marina Vista, Martinez, 7:30-10pm.

june 3

june 22-24

Southern Exposure III

Le Top Sample Sale

Under the baton of Artistic Director Martin Benvenuto, WomenSing, the adventurous East Bay women’s chorus presents a concert of Latin American music. 8-10pm, Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian Church, 49 Knox Dr., Lafayette. For tickets visit www. womensing.org.

Local children’s clothing company sample sale, offering high-end adorable playwear (for ages 0-7 years) at over 70% off retail prices. 9am 5pm. Tuesday ‘til 7pm. C.K. Enterprises, 2301 Arnold Industrial Way, Suite C, Concord.

june 13

june 17

Wine Stroll

Prop 13 Talk

Spend a relaxing afternoon strolling from business to business in downtown Martinez.

Stop in participating stores and restaurants to sample delicious wines and treats, 2-5:30pm.

Purchase tickets at www.mainstreetmartinez. org.

Ben Grieff of the community organization Evolve discusses closing commercial loopholes in Prop.

13 to provide more funds for education and public services. 7pm, Ygnacio Valley Library, 2661 Oak Grove Rd, Walnut Creek. Sponsored by the Diablo Valley Democratic Club. 925.946.0469 or www. dvdems.org.

june 4

june 20

Diablo Toastmasters

Piano Masterworks

Diablo Toastmasters Serving the Concord, Pleasant Hill, Walnut Creek area. Membership is open to all who wish to improve their communication and leadership skills. Club meets every Thursday from 7-9pm at El Tapatio, 40 Golf Club Rd., Pleasant Hill. www.diablotoastmasters.org.

Gregory Taboloff performs three centuries of piano masterworks, 3pm at the Lafayette Library Community Hall stage. For advance tickets email Ann Marie Taboloff at annbking1@yahoo.com or at gregorytaboloff@aol.com. Admission is $40, which includes wine and cheese at intermission.

june 13

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june 18

Book Sale

Zero Waste

Bag of Books Sale 11am - 4pm at the Martinez Public Library (lower level), 740 Court Street. Fill a grocery sack with your choice of gently used books, DVDs, and audio books for only $5.

Rodgers Ranch Heritage Center is pleased to announce that world-famous Bea Johnson, former Pleasant Hill resident and zero-waste lifestyle expert, will be speaking as part of the Sustainable Living Series. Enjoy refreshments from Corner Bakery, from 10am to noon.

june 2015 • ourcommunityfocus.com

Business Directory Local Qualit y You Can Trust!

Pleasant Hill

COLLISION

Buck Shot & Any Reason Fun "LIVE" Music from the 50’s thru 80’s For Any Occasion

Collision Repair & Painting • Frame Straightening Insurance Claims • Glass • Customs

Special Shows for Assisted Living, Convalescent Homes & Hospitals

www.PleasantHillCollision.com • email phcollision@aol.com 925-939-1160 • 1581 Oak Park Boulevard • Pleasant Hill

Contact Buck• 925-787-6149 www.buckshotozoneband.com

One Dog At A Time • Call for Same Day Appointments • Mon, Tue, Fri, Sat and Sun • 9am - 6pm and Some Evenings

• Drop in nail trimming Sunday & Monday's • Located in and Backed by Central Bark, Downtown Martinez

melonie jackson • 925-822-7858 821 Escobar St, Martinez

LEADING EDGE

PEST MANAGEMENT, INC. TERMITE SPECIALISTS Inspections, Eco-Friendly Treatments & Professional Repairs

800-471-5555

WWW.LEADINGEDGEPM.COM

Lic.#PR6202

Advertisers

Academy Water Polo Derek Knapp, Agent 2000 Aspire Pilates Center Bay View Yacht Charters Carlton Senior Living City of Pleasant Hill Cold Stone Creamery Colleen Callahan Insurance Services Colorz Hair Gallery Country Waffles Deja Vu Boutique Diablo Oncology Diablo Valley College

Downtown Pleasant Hill EcoMulch Ellinwood Exterminators El Tapatio Flaskerud - RE/MAX Today Forma Gym Glenn Allen Team – RE/MAX Hagin’s Automotive Hammer’s Heating and A/C Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital Hire My Husband Home Detailers Housekeeping Jack’s Restaurant & Bar Jennifer L. Martin D.D.S. Kobe Japan

Law Offices of Daniel L. DuRee Law Offices of Lauren Smykowski Les Schwab Tires Linda J. Weihofen Martinez Chamber of Commerce Matt Rinn – State Farm Insurance Maureen Ingalls - RE/MAX Accord Moulding Company Nash Iron Works Pacific Coast Famers’ Market Pacific Urology Parkway Smiles Dental Pleasant Hill Chamber of Commerce Pleasant Hill Rec & Park Samuels Construction

SAFE Credit Union Senior Helpers Shell Western States Credit Union SkinScience Medical Spa Suzanne Looker, Pacific Union International Transform FX Fitness Trio Skincare Inc. Waters Moving and Storage Wealth & Tax Planners Wence’s Restaurant YMCA

Spring Cleaning Special

6/30/15

ourcommunityfocus.com • june 2015

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Summer IES DOWNTOWN PLEASANT HILL

R E S T R E C CO N

C I S U + M E V I + L FREE

FREE Summer Concerts

LE T H E B I G JA N G 18 E JUN

H O US E PA R T Y DA V I D M AR T I N ’ S AU G U S T 2 0

Third Thursday 6:30pm - 8:30pm June September

INNERSOUL J U LY 1 6

T H E FU N DA M EN TA L S S E P T E M B E R 17

All concerts and parking are FREE! SPONSORED BY:

In the plaza next to Jack’s Restaurant & Bar Pleasant Hill Chamber Wine Tasting 6:00pm - 8:30pm

california-grown.com Located next to Atlas & Athena.

Tickets available at www.pleasanthillchamber.com or call 925-687-0700.

Performances subject to change.

Crescent Dr. at Contra Costa Blvd., Pleasant Hill, CA 94523. Visit www.ShopDowntownPleasantHill.com for event updates.

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june 2015 • ourcommunityfocus.com