• june 2013
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Martinez Farmers’ Market. Photos by SusanWoodPhotography.com
• Martinez Events..............................................page 3 • Bishop – Oasis in High Country............... page 12 • AHS Auto Repair Winners......................... page 16 • Meet the Grads............................................. page 18
• Local CD Review............................................. page 24 • Home Plate Heroes.......................................... page 26 • Rodgers Ranch.................................................. page 33 • Community Events........................................... page 38
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June 2013
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7th Annual King of the Pacific Coast Farmers’ County BBQ and Festival Market 25th Anniversary
Join us for the 7th Annual King of the County BBQ Challenge & Music Festival on June 15 & 16 at the Martinez Marina Waterfront Park from 11am-6pm daily. A perfect way for the entire family to spend Father’s Day! Enjoy lip-smacking BBQ from the professionals at Back Forty BBQ, Kinder’s Meats and the new Smokehouse 10 (as recently featured on Discovery Channel’s BBQ Pitmasters TV show), as well as an amateur BBQ competition sponsored by Les Schwab Tires. BBQ competition spaces are filling fast; rules and application can be found on the event website at www.CountyBBQ. com. This is your chance to showcase your backyard barbequing prowess and earn amazing trophies, cash awards and bragging rights as King of the County!
Enjoy a variety of California’s top bands live on the Xtreme Scaffolding stage: The RevTones, ZenKali, Aces Up, Maxx Cabello Jr., The Big Jangle, Chris Gardner Band, Rockinghorse, Garageland Rodeo, Caroompas Room and BigCat Tolefree. Also, kid’s activities, rides, as well as arts & craft vendors, microbreweries & wineries. FREE parking & admission. Presented by US Shell Oil Products and hosted by the Martinez Chamber of Commerce. Be sure stop by the Home Depot booth for a chance to win the ultimate BBQ set-up! For full event details, amateur BBQ application and vendor display information, please visit www.CountyBBQ.com or call the Martinez Chamber at 925.228.2345.
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Each of the Pacific Coast Farmers’ Markets (PCFMA) will be celebrating their anniversaries at different locations this year. On June 23rd, the Martinez Farmers’ Market will be hosting the event filled with a variety of special features to mark the occasion, including an enter-to-win sweepstakes with a Grand Prize of $2,500! There will be a photo exhibition of the farmers whose hard work and commitment bring fresh local produce to our weekly markets and a timeline banner showing the growth of the sustainable food-to-table movement, noting PCFMA’s role its success over the last 25 years.
Other anniversary activities will include: free cake, kids’ activities and arts and crafts, an appearance by Mr. Carrot at each market, cooking demonstrations with the Cookin’ the Market chefs, fun promotional giveaways such as recycled bags, pens, or mugs and lots of enter-to-win contests. To see a full list of anniversary locations, visit: www. pcfma.com. Martinez Farmers’ Market hours: Sundays, 10am – 2pm, Main Street at Estudillo Street: year-round. Thursdays, 10am-2pm, Court Street between Main & Escobar Street: till October 24, 2013.
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June 2013
JULIE SAYS
Here Comes the Idiom Challenge
If you get butterflies in your stomach, put your foot in your mouth, or burn the midnight oil, we are in the same boat. It’s true whether we are spilling the beans, telling a fish story, or just putting in our two cents. Our speech is full to the brim with idioms. Idioms add nuance to our language and communicate in a way that literal words cannot. Sometimes vivid, sometimes cutting or humorous, idioms allow us to expand our range of expression, often using fewer words but saying more. I have been working like a dog, really knocking myself out, and putting my nose to the grindstone to figure out a new word challenge. I believe I have finally hit the nail on the head or at least put my finger on something. So here it
By Julie Ross is: write a paragraph of 100 words or less, using as many idioms as you can. The topic of your paragraph is completely up to you. You can describe a person, place or thing; talk about an experience such as sitting in traffic, attending a performance, or participating in a business meeting; or you can draft an ad, jot down a short book or compose a movie review. The only rule is that your paragraph has to make sense. Entries will be accepted through June 30 and a winner will be announced in the August issue of Community Focus. Please email your Idiom Challenge paragraphs to julieakross@comcast. net. You may enter as many times as you wish. Entries will be judged on the basis of creativity and number of idioms used in a grammatically correct way. The
Independent & Locally Owned
winner will receive four guest passes to Lindsay Wildlife Museum. If the winner is already a member, he or she will receive a $25 gift certificate to spend in the museum store. It’s really no skin off my nose if this challenge is not your cup of tea, but if you do choose to try your hand, I’m all ears! Send comments to julieakross@ comcast.net.
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SSaturdays, aturdays, 9 aam-1 m-1 ppm m • RRain ain oorr SShine hine In Season: Strawberries from Medina Berry Farm are in their peak season, and raspberries and blackberries are here too! Surprise somebody you love with a beautiful rose (or a few!) from Rose Lane Farm, a 5-acre backyard farm in Brentwood specializing in roses and heirloom vegetables. Blueberries are here! And Lone Oak Ranch has ‘em waiting for you.
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June 2013
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Hern Family Settled at Home Aaron Recovering Rapidly From Injuries With memories, emotions and scars of the Boston Marathon terrorist attack still vivid in their minds, the Hern family returned to Martinez on the last day of April to resume lives that were disrupted and impacted forever. Coming home by May 1st was the primary objective for the Herns because it happened to be Aaron Hern’s birthday. Aaron sustained serious physical injuries as a result of the second blast at the marathon, but thanks to initial responders and the medical staff at Boston’s Children’s Hospital, Aaron was able to be home on his big day and is currently on a fast track to complete recovery. On May 1st the youngster turned twelve-years old, and he reached another milestone by having 86 staples removed from his left thigh after two surgeries. After a few days of decompressing at home, parents Alan and Katherine
By Chuck Nan their lives and activities, made a public appearciting walks in the park, ance before a significant family outings and simple number of local media excursions. The mother outlets on May 3. Exuding of two put it in a nutshell great personal strength, when she said, “Listen to they approached the your children.” session with poise and Aaron’s recovery dignity in light of what process includes about six was thrust upon them in weeks of physical therapy. the preceding days. He is also nursing a punc Alan read a prepared tured eardrum, which statement in which he exwill heal over time, and has short-term pressed profound gratitude to the comhearing loss in one ear. One week after munity, businesses, local sports teams, he arrived home, he returned to Marfriends and the many folks he didn’t tinez Junior High on a modified class know for their kindhearted outpourschedule. ing of generosity and support over the Alan indicated that Aaron doesn’t weeks since the tragedy. really feel he deserves the significant Faced with a situation where she amount of attention he has experienced. could have lost one or both of her children, Katherine spoke from the heart as In Boston he was visited by First Lady a loving mother. She asked all to contin- Michelle Obama and members of the Oakland A’s. He was a guest of the ue to use prayer as a quest for strength. She asked parents to spend quality time Warriors during a playoff game and he threw out the first pitch at the A’s vs. with their kids by being involved in
Giants game on May 29. Abigail Hern, 10, was with her father and brother waiting for Katherine near the finish line when the bomb exploded in their vicinity on the racecourse. She was not injured physically, but was witness to the catastrophic mayhem and deadly scene that followed. At this point, the Herns are returning to normal life. It is clear that through their strength and resolve the family is healing by immersing themselves in what they have done all along: work, school, sports and community activities with family and friends. Warriors’ head coach Mark Jackson summed up the Herns saying, “Aaron is a dynamic young man and he comes from a great family.” Perhaps, like the Herns, we all may never have an understanding of this or other heinous acts, but will come to find triumph in our noble will by knowing peace that leads to closure.
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June 2013
Real Estate Update
By Nathan Hitchcock lopsided losses to start the season. coaches (one of whom I am honored As I write this, I suspect more than a few recent and blessed to call my wife), and her my eight-year old amazing teammates for their wonderful home buyers out there can relate to daughter’s softball how the girls felt. Anyone who is or accomplishments. But it’s also because team just finished was in the hunt for a home this year the team’s journey this season holds second in its end of more than likely has written several if an important lesson for anyone who is season playoff series, not a dozen or more offers on homes, currently facing the daunting task of narrowly losing the only to receive the dreaded “I’m sorry, buying a home in our local real estate championship game by a single run. but the sellers have chosen to go with Despite coming up one win short of the market. another offer” call from their Realtor in whole enchilada, I could not have been You see, the team’s season did not response. Anger, frustration, hopelessstart out nearly as rosy as it finished. more proud as I watched them line up ness, fear, dread, and worse are all but About half of the team had never so on the field holding gleaming trophies inevitable feelings. over their heads, their little faces barely much as picked up a softball bat before So what guidance can these and couldn’t tell you the difference able to contain elated smiles. I know, I downtrodden buyers draw from my know, this is a real estate column, not a between first base and the pitcher’s daughter’s softball team? With a posisports column. So why the heck are we mound. Additionally, three of the four tive mindset, an enthusiastic attitude, coaches had never coached before, and talking softball? and a dogged persistence, anything the one who had was not in charge. I confess. It’s in part so that I is possible. Rather than employing The result, not surprisingly, was two can publicly praise my daughter, her the traditional technique of berating the girls to watch the ball, bend their knees, and hustle, the coaching staff chose instead to cheer the girls on, celebrating every tiny accomplishment they could find. The girls responded By Daniel DuRee
NY State May Keep All of $40 Million Estate
You may have heard about the State of New York possibly ending up with the $40 million estate of a man who died without a will. While this may sound absurd, it is more common than you think. Almost every state, including California, has a provision in the probate code that if a person dies without a will and has no ascertainable heirs, their property goes to the state. This rule is called (I am not kidding) “escheat.” So what does happen if a person dies without a will? Well, the probate code describes exactly the order in which spouses and relatives receive the property of the deceased. These distribution schemes are far too convoluted to talk about here, but it is surprising how arbitrary they are. There is no provision in the code for the property of a deceased person to go to any entity other than relatives or the state. Without a will, there is no inquiry by the probate court regarding what the deceased person would have wanted. The probate court simply follows the code, and if no heirs can be
found, the property reverts to the state. In the case of the New York man, he was a holocaust survivor as well as a member of his local synagogue. He likely would have preferred that his property benefit his local community, but there is no allowance for this in the probate code. Proper estate planning is about maintaining control of your life as you age -- control over your property, personal affairs and medical care. The decisions the state makes for you may not be the same as the decisions you would make. Please call my office to talk about how to put your wishes into proper legal documents so that you can maintain control and not be left with whatever the state thinks is best for you and your family. Daniel L. DuRee is a third generation resident of Contra Costa County and a licensed attorney practicing in Walnut Creek. His practice focuses on wills, trusts, probate, and estate planning. He can be reached at (925) 210-1400 or visit www.DuReeLaw. com.
“Nathan was a dream to work with. Very professional, hardworking and easy going. He put our needs before his.” Joe Resident
amazingly, ultimately becoming one of the powerhouses in their division. More importantly, they had fun and supported each other along their journey together. In my entire real estate career, I have never had a client tell me as I handed them the keys to their new home that they wished they had bought “that other house.” Call it God’s will, fate, luck, or wherever else your beliefs lie, but without exception, every one of them felt in hindsight that it was meant to work out the way it did. The bumps in the road were simply experiences that better helped them realize what they truly wanted in their next home. So keep your chin up and a smile on your face and enjoy the journey. I promise you your next home is waiting for you out there somewhere. Nathan Hitchcock can be reached at nathan@hitchcockrealty.com or (925) 825-1100.
WE ARE NOT #1... AND WE ARE PROUD OF IT. Our goal is not to sell the most homes, it's to get YOU the most for YOUR home. That comes with quality, not quantity. Call or click today and experience the difference for yourself.
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June 2013
Page 7
Chamber Ribbon Cuttings
Colleen Callahan Insurance Services
Wence’s Restaurant
Colleen Callahan Insurance Services is an independent insurance agency providing high quality, personalized service for a variety of insurance needs. We research, advise, educate and assist in planning all aspects of your insurance needs. For employers, we offer assistance designing, implementing, and maintaining employee benefits including: medical, dental, vision, disability, life, 401k, and voluntary benefits. For individuals and families, we assist in customizing life, medical, disability, and long-term care insurance. We’d love to help with your insurance needs. Visit us at 140 Gregory Lane, Suite 170, Pleasant Hill or call (925) 363-5433 and speak with Colleen, Kelly, Cary, or Aaron. We’re all here to help! www.callahaninsurance.com.
Since it’s grand opening in October, Wence’s Restaurant has offered a fresh and tasty variety of California Cuisine in Pleasant Hill! Wence’s is a family owned business where even the smallest details matter to ensure every customer is pleased with their food and dining experience and is eager to return. Friendly hosts, bartenders and servers will provide you with impeccable service, while Chef Gerardo Wence and his highly skilled kitchen staff will prepare an outstanding meal for you and your family, friends and guests! Wence’s also offers catering services at your site and hosts private parties at the restaurant for larger groups to celebrate special events. We host corporate events, fundraisers, birthday parties, reunions & weddings. Our banquet options allow us to accommodate you with either a buffet style or a formal dining option for all occasions.1922 Oak Park Blvd., Pleasant Hill • (925) 566-8971, Email: alex@wencesrestaurant.com.
PLEASANT HILL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Please verify schedule at www.pleasanthillchamber.com • 925-687-0700
6/7 - Ambassador Meeting - 8-9am. Pleasant Hill City Hall. 6/11 – Leadership Lunch - 11:45-1pm. Maggo’s Grill, 1250 Contra Costa Blvd., PH. RSVP to Rodjharris1@gmail.com. 6/12 – Fundraiser for PH Chamber 11am-9pm at Round Table, 716 Contra Costa Blvd., PH. 6/12 – Ribbon Cutting - 4:30 pm. Round Table Pizza, 716 Contra Costa Blvd., PH. 6/14 – Ribbon Cutting - 9am. Corner Bakery, 35 Crescent Dr., PH.
Sweet Tomatoes, Crescent Drive, PH. 6/24 – Green Committee Meeting 4-5pm. Back Forty Texas BBQ, 100 Coggins Drive, PH.
Flaskerud Re/Max Office
6/24 – Governmental Affairs Committee Meeting - 5:30–7pm. Back Forty Texas BBQ, 100 Coggins Drive, PH. 6/27 – Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting – 5pm. Hyatt House, 2611 Contra Costa Blvd., PH. CALENDAR SPONSORED BY
6/19 – Chamber Mixer - 5 -7pm. Hyatt House, 2611 Contra Costa Blvd., PH. 6/20 – Board of Directors Meeting - 8-9am. Pleasant Hill City Hall Community Room. 6/20 – PH Chamber Wine Tasting at Plaza Concerts - 5:30-8pm. (3rd Thursday of June, July, August & September). Located between Coldstone Creamery &
MARTINEZ CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Please verify schedule at www.martinezchamber.com • 925-228-2345
Ambassador Meetings – If interested in attending, contact us at (925) 228-2345 or email info@martinezchamber.com. June 15 & 16 - Father’s Day Weekend – 7th Annual King of the County BBQ & Music Festival. Saturday and Sunday at the Martinez Waterfront Park from 11am – 6pm. Family Fun, Lip Smackin’ BBQ, Amateur BBQ Competition, Rockin’ Music, Arts & Crafts Booths, Kid’s Rides & Activities, Microbreweries & Wineries. Vendor space available. Free admission & parking. Visit www.CountyBBQ.com or call the Martinez Chamber for more information!
6/17 - Chamber Office Closed 6/20 - Educational Series - Tips & Techniques for Building Your Business, presented by Harriette Heibel, 12pm -1:30pm. Doors open at 11:30. Creekside Church Multi-Purpose Room, 444 Fig Tree Lane (Morello to Midhill), Martinez. Chamber members free, non-members $20, bag lunch included. RSVP required at least 2 days prior. Call the Chamber office at (925) 228-2345 or email info@ martinezchamber.com. Space is limited. 6/20 - Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting - 4:00pm. Hall Closet Thrift Store, 100 Glacier Drive, Martinez.
Having been RE/MAX agents for 20 years, Don and Norma Flaskerud are honored to become brokers/owners of a RE/MAX office with their son Erik. Now they are close to their main clientele, the citizens of Pleasant Hill, and can invite other Realtors to work with them and enjoy all the benefits of working for RE/MAX in a very convenient locale. There is ample parking and easy in and out access. A conference room has already been put to use and they’re happy to make it available for your group; just give them a call! Don, Norma, and Erik invite you to stop in for a visit, a chat and a cup of coffee at their new office. 925-676-5859. 367 Civic Drive, Suite 7, right off Taylor Blvd.
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Page 8
PLEASANT HILL CITY BUZZ “Summertime, and the livin’ is easy…” This line from the Broadway hit musical Porgy and Bess certainly describes summertime in Pleasant Hill. Our city hosts a great lineup of special, easy livin’ summertime events during the next few months with plenty of fun for the entire family. Here are some highlights: Farmers’ Market (Saturday, May 4 – November 16) The farmers’ market, located in the downtown plaza (next to Jack’s Restaurant), runs weekly on Saturdays through November 16 and features the freshest produce, baked goods, cooking demonstrations, and live music. Go to www. pcfma.com for more information. Sunset by the Lake Summer Concerts (May 26 – September 1) The Civic Action Commission hosts the 16th Annual Summer Concert Series on the lawn at City Hall. I hope you can join me for our annual family friendly and extremely popular concert series in the relaxed atmosphere and cozy confines by the lake at City Hall. (Yes, I know it isn’t really a lake, but “Concerts by the Lake” sounds a lot more summerlike and romantic than “Concerts by the Fishpond.”) The lineup this year includes local favorites Cover 2 Cover, East Bay MUDD, Zoo Station (U2 cover band),
June 2013
Mayor’s Message
Michael G. Harris, OD, Mayor, City of Pleasant Hill and Dave Martin’s House Party. Local and enter many competitions for great Blues & Brews Festival eateries will have food and treats for sale prizes. Or, just come for the show to (Saturday, July 27, at Pleasant Hill at each concert. For more details and the enjoy music and food and vote for your Park) full concert schedule, check out www. favorite cars. For more details, see www. If you like great music and adult pleasanthillconcerts.com. beverages on a warm summer afternoon, pleasanthillrec.com. Downtown Plaza Concert Series (June Get more information about all the annual Blues & Brews Festival is the 20, July 18, August 15 & September 19) these and other summertime activiplace for you. For more details and to This year, downtown Pleasant Hill is ties at www.pleasant-hill.net/festivals. I purchase tickets go to www.bluesandhosting concerts on the third Thursday hope you enjoy these great summertime brewsfestival.com. of June, July, August and September in events. And don’t forget the sunscreen! American Iron Car Show the plaza area between Sweet Tomatoes (My sincere thanks to Martin Nelis, (Sunday, August 11 in downtown and Jack’s Restaurant. Each concert is the city’s public information officer, for Pleasant Hill) from 6:30pm to 8:30pm. The series feaproviding information in this column.) Bring your pre-80’s American car tures four of the most popular bands in the Bay Area with Cover 2 Cover on June 20, Fast Times on July 18, Dave Martin’s Citywide Garage Sale House Party on August 15, and The On May 18 & 19, the City of Pleasant Hill held their first annual citywide garage Fundamentals on September 19. The sale, co-sponsored by the Pleasant Hill Civic Action Commission and Republic ServicPleasant Hill Chamber of Commerce es. During April and May, over 170 sellers went online at PleasantHillGarageSale.com and placed a free ad that listed their address and description of items being sold. Buywill also host a wine stroll the evening of ers could browse the ads and pick and choose which yard sales they wanted to visit. each concert. For more details, check out Buyers could even view all the garage sale listings on a map, zoom in, and click on www.shopdowntownpleasanthill.com. individual yard sale icons for more details. Fourth of July Celebration According to Anne Baker, recycling coordinator for Republic Services, the city Yes, you guessed it. This annual wide garage sale concept began in Antioch two years ago. She wanted to establish one in Pleasant Hill since the website had already been developed. She contacted favorite will be held again on July 4. Pleasant Hill’s Public Information Officer Martin Nelis with the idea, and he was very reThis year’s theme is “We the People – ceptive. He took it one step further by involving the Civic Action Commission. An American Melting Pot” with grand “Hopefully, working with the commission now that the relationship has been esmarshal and former City Manager Jim tablished, we can go further next year with reuse ideas,” said Baker. She felt an addiAlkire. Come early for the Firecracker tional idea next year might be to have a Reuse Round Up event shortly after the citywide garage sale, where items could be dropped off at a designated location and 5K Fun Run, stay for the parade, fun and given to local non-profit organizations in Pleasant Hill and the surrounding areas. food in the park, and then return in the evening for an amazing fireworks display at College Park High School. For more information, go to www.phjuly4.com. (Here’s a riddle for the kids. Do they celebrate a Fourth of July in England? Kids, when you figure it out, ask your parents if they know the answer.)
City News
City Calendar of Events
Architectural Review Commission June 6, 20 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane Small Community Room, 5pm Contact: 671-5209 City Council June 3, 17 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane Council Chambers, 7:30pm Contact: 671-5229 Civic Action Commission June 5 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane Small Community Room, 6:30pm Contact: 671-5229
Education Commission June 26 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane Large Community Room, 7pm Contact: 671-5229 Planning Commission June 11, 25 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane Council Chambers, 7:30pm Contact: 671-5209 For Confirmation Visit: www.ci.pleasant-hill.ca.us
This boat was for sale at the Citywide Garage Sale on May 18 &19. The owner received several offers for the vessel and was even presented with $5,000 cash from one potential buyer.
Economic Development
With the opening of the Corner Bakery on 35 Crescent Drive this month, the economic health of Pleasant Hill strengthens. Another boost will be the grand opening of Nordstrom Rack near the Sun Valley Shopping Center this September. The In N Out Burger on Contra Costa Boulevard opened a year ago last May and was the 2nd highest producing store in any city with a single store in California. “This information is based on data from the 1st quarter of business operations,” said Kelly Calhoun, economic development manager for the City of Pleasant Hill. “We generally hear from many of the larger national brand or chain retailers that the stores located in Pleasant Hill are typically the highest performers in their operations,” she said. A new Facebook page has been created to increase local shopping and dining, called Shop Pleasant Hill. According to the page, “Shop Pleasant Hill is an initiative of the City of Pleasant Hill to encourage residents and visitors to shop, dine, stay in, and enjoy Pleasant Hill.”
June 2013
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MARTINEZ CITY BUZZ
Mayor’s Message
Rob Schroder, Mayor of Martinez tal improvements throughout the city. When cities Rankin Park and Tavan Field have been go through their completely rebuilt. Major paving projbudget process on ects have been completed including an annual or biMain Street, Shell Avenue, Muir Road annual basis, they and Reliez Valley Road. One of the three also review and major entrances into downtown Maradopt a five year tinez, Marina Vista, was completely reCapital ImprovePhoto by Stahlberg built with new sidewalks, paving, unment Program (CIP). In Martinez we derground utilities, lighting and street have a two-year budget, so we consider furniture, including a historical entry our CIP every two years. sign. At the city’s water plant the main The CIP program and budget conraw water pipeline that carries water tains priorities, descriptions, and funding plans for all projects the city intends from the reservoir to the water plant was replaced and a maintenance dredge to construct within the next five years. was completed at the marina. The Martinez City Council held a CIP Projects that have been recomworkshop last month and city staff premended in the 2013-2015 CIP include sented the proposed plan. To prepare continuing upgrades to parks, the wafor the workshop, city staff performed ter system and paving; sidewalk requite a bit of legwork. First, they conplacement; additional traffic signals at ferred with the finance department to Alhambra Avenue at C Street, Arnold determine the fund balances available for capital projects. Next were a series of Drive and Pacheco Blvd.; downtown parking meter upgrades; and improvemeetings with each department of the ments to our public buildings (city hall, city for their input. The goals set at the recent city council retreat were also con- Amtrak Station, Senior Center and Corporation Yard). sidered. After the workshop, city staff makes The final draft of the CIP will be adjustments from the input of the coun- before the city council for formal adoption on June 19. We welcome input to cil and the public and presents a final the CIP up to and including that meetproject list to the city council for foring. If you have a capital improvement mal adoption. The CIP is then sent to project that you would like to be conthe Planning Commission for review to sidered, please email City Engineer Tim make sure it is consistent with the city’s general plan, after which it is incorporat- Tucker at ttucker@cityofmartinez.org or any member of the city council. You ed into the 2013-2015 biennial budget. can find our emails on the city’s website Over the last two years, the City www.cityofmartinez.org. of Martinez has completed many capi-
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City News Main Street Matters
Benjamin Moore Paints is going to repaint twenty Main Streets across America and Martinez is one of four California cities competing for a Main Street Makeover. If Martinez wins, they will paint 3 blocks of the Main Street! Their website states: “Main Street is a part of all our histories, which is why we should all take care of them, preserve them, and work to keep their businesses thriving.” Cast your vote by going to www.paintwhatmatters.com. On the map, choose California, then click on “Martinez.” You’ll be asked to confirm your choice by clicking “Vote now.” You can vote once per day through June 30. You can request others to vote by using the social media button. You can also check out our Downtown Martinez Facebook Page where you can find the post and easily hit the “share” button. Benjamin Moore will be completing all of the projects over the next year with the help of local retailers and painting contractors.
Grad Night Donations At the May 15 city council meeting, Mayor Schroder presented donation checks for high school Grad Night in the amount of $500 each to Sara Stafford and Phil Philbrook, representing Alhambra High School, and Jessica Pacheco, representing College Park High School. Every year, the city council sets aside $500 for the two high schools for their Grad Night, an all-night, drug and alcohol-free celebration for high school graduating seniors. “Every kid who comes to Grad Night leaves with memories of their last night with their classmates as well as a bounty of things for dorm rooms and things like that. I can’t emphasize enough how important this event is and how safe it is for the kids,” said Philbook. Grad Night for Alhambra High takes place at the AHS Commons. College Park’s Grad Night takes place at Centre Concord.
Backyard Composting Workshops The City of Martinez is hosting free backyard composting workshops and offering high quality compost bins for $58. Composting your yard trimmings and food scraps is easy, great for your yard and garden, kind to our environment and good for you too. Save money, save water, and conserve natural resources. To find out how to attend our next free workshop, held on Saturday, June 22, from 10am to noon at City Hall, email comptrsvp@cityofmartinez.org or call (925) 372-3531.
Annual Fishing Derby Kids aged 5-12 are invited to participate Saturday, July 6, from 10am - noon for a morning of free fishing at the Martinez Marina. Bring your fishing rod; we will supply the bait! Everyone who participates receives a prize. A parent or guardian must accompany all children to sign photo/liability release. Pre-registration is required by Thursday, July 3, to participate. To register, contact Martinez Recreation (925) 372-3510. Space is limited to 40 children. No fishing license is required.
City Calendar of Events City Council Meeting June 5, 19 6:30-11pm Contact: 925-372-3500
Planning Commission Meeting June 11, 25 7-11pm Contact: 925-372-3500
Design Review Meeting June 12, 26 3-5pm Contact: 925-372-3500
Zoning Administrator Meeting June 5, 19 3-5pm Contact: 925-372-3500
All City Meetings at City Hall, 525 Henrietta Street, Unless Otherwise Indicated. For Confirmation Visit: www.cityofmartinez.org
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June 2013
Local Photographer Gets Published Nationally Local photographer Tod Gomes of Pleasant Hill has had a successful photography business in the Bay Area for over 12 years. He photographs family portraits of all sorts and specializes in sports-themed portraits, especially in-
action photography. Recently, Tod was featured in the May 2013 magazine issue of Professional Photographers of America (PPA), which showcased his talents in an educational article. PPA is the leading photographic organization in the country. Tod Gomes is one of less than 4.3% of professional photographers who are members of the Professional Photographers of America (not including amateurs or enthusiasts) in the state of California with the Certified Professional Photographer (CPP) status. To celebrate this accomplishment, Tod is offering clients a once in a lifetime deal for portraits created by Tod Gomes Photography. For more information on this offer and to view Tod’s portfolio, please visit www.todgomes. com. You can also call or text your questions to 925-787-1063.
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June 2013
Historic and Beautiful 395: A Town-by-Town Series Part 5: Bishop - Oasis in the High Country Barely over an hour south of Mono Lake lies Bishop, a seemingly dusty cow town from out of a Louis L’Amour novel modernized with a casino, gas stations and fast food store fronts. However, don’t let first impressions shy you away from the hidden gem that is this little town. After making the big bend in the road, the town reveals itself more fully: modern motels, a great visitor center (an A-frame on the left), a wonderful breakfast waffle house and a premier temple to photography. Backpacking and camping supplies and support options abound. On the outskirts of town are a great Native America Indian museum, a fine Thai food restaurant, amazing lakes, trout fishing, hiking trails, an ancient Bristlecone Forest, and a richly rewarding museum of western Americana and railroading. On the topic of what is closest to my heart - food - is a must-stop at Jack’s Waffle house for breakfast. Be prepared to take your turn, as it’s a popular place among both tourists and locals. For dinner, the Visitor Center staff was very fond of a restaurant located at the little regional airport called Thai Thai. Though hard to believe, this small restaurant has garnered praise from folks all over the country for their fresh ingredients, a sophisticated menu and amazing flavors that reflect the personal and award winning talents of the chef. I was there on a Wednesday night and was treated to an evening of soft New York-style club jazz by a sax player who
Story and Photos by Christopher Vardas has worked the casino circuit from Vegas North of town, a few miles along to Reno for years. Another must stop is Highway 6 (where Highway 395 turns the Great Basin Bakery at the south end of south), is a wonderful and extensive outtown (cinch your belt before entering.) door complex called Laws Railroad Mu The enthusiastic staff at the Visitor seum and Historic Site. For a very nominal Center outlined an array of activities and fee you can access old, historic buildings ideas to fill a week’s visit. They can provide filled with examples of western Ameriyou with good maps and tips on visiting can life from the late 1800’s through the all points south of Bishop including Lone 1930’s, including a print shop, hairdresser, Pine, the Alabama Hills and Mt. Whitapparel, pharmacy, school, blacksmith, livney. With their help, we visited a small yet ery, saloon and so much more. Additionwell-designed Native American museum, ally, friendly people will inform and direct lovingly prepared by members of the Paiyou to fascinating active workshops, a static ute-Shoshone tribe. Check ahead because steam train display (you can go into the the museum has limited hours and staffengine cab), locomotive oil and water towing. The museum, though modest, is full of ers, century-old fire engines and so much great historical information, artifacts and more. The grounds are flat and easily acdisplays that beautifully educate the viewer cessed by families and seniors alike. Bring not only about the local Indians but the water, good shoes and sunscreen and take nature of aboriginal life. Allow an hour to frequent breaks under the refreshing shade enjoy this wonderful museum. trees. This is a great morning stop before
heading out for more high country adventure. Note: there are loads of wild rabbits roaming the area. Despite their cuddly looks, they are not to be trusted with your fingertips! This is a must-bring-your-camera place that requires at least 2-3 hours to enjoy properly. Another gem worth a stopover is the Mountain Light Photography Gallery. Originally the photographic home of world-famous photographer Galen Rowell, the store front art gallery houses a collection of some of the finest landscape photography to be found anywhere. Worthy of any art museum collection, the work is a testimony to the passion of fine art photographers who find and capture inspirational images from the Sierra Nevada and the area surrounding Bishop. This is a definite mustsee. To the west, up Highway 168 from downtown Bishop, is an amazing array of high country lakes and landscapes to satisfy camper, fisherman, hiker and photographer. South of Bishop, you can connect with Highway 168 eastbound to access the rare and magnificent Bristlecone Pine forests. Bear left up the Westgard Pass Road and left again up the White Mountain Road to the Schulman Grove Visitor Center and access the Bristlecone Pines. Check in town to make sure the road is open and, if you go, bring a jacket and hat, even in summer, as this is another high altitude destination. Did I mention sunscreen, too? View more of Christopher’s photos at www.VardasPhotography.com.
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June 2013
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CORKS AND FORKS
Pair Up With La Sommelierre Maria Terry Raspberry Beret Fresh raspberries were on my mind this month. Wine made from grapes offers a variety of flavors, including the flavor of raspberry, even though there isn’t a raspberry anywhere near the fermenters when the wine is made. Yeast is truly nature’s little miracle worker, creating brand new flavors from what the grapes give them. Of course, we do find wines made from a variety of fruits and vegetables that actually taste like their antecedents. As long as there is a sugar for the yeast to consume, you can make wine from it. A terrific place that makes grape wines is The Terraces at Quarry Vineyards in Napa, just off the Silverado Trail. I had the pleasure of meeting with Ryan Calder on a warm spring day, and we started our tasting with his new Rosé blend. The wine
is an ingenious blend of (white) Riesling grapes, early-picked Zinfandel, and saignée of Cabernet Sauvignon. Each component leaves its delicious footprint on the wine. The low-alcohol Zinfandel gives the wine an unmistakable berry quality; the Cabernet imparts a deeper tobacco, earthy quality; and the Riesling contributes the perfect high note of stone fruits like peach and apricot. Light and refreshing, this wine is a great partner for a starter of Watermelon and Red Onion Salad with tangy, spicy Raspberry Dressing. Cabernet Franc wines can also exhibit berry flavors, but the fruitiness is usually offset with black olives and rich soil. Maybe that sounds odd, but those dark flavors keep wine from tasting like alcoholic KoolAid. Bring out red fruit flavors in wine by drizzling grilled chicken with Leslie Stiles’
Cayenne Pepper Truffles INGREDIENTS 1 pound semi-sweet, good quality chocolate, chopped 12 ounces unsalted butter 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper 12 tablespoons heavy cream 2 ½ cups powdered sugar MIXTURE 1/3 cup powdered sugar 2 tablespoons cocoa powder 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground ginger DIRECTIONS Melt chocolate, butter and cayenne. Stir until smooth. Remove from heat and mix in cream and powdered sugar. Cover and chill overnight. Scoop truffles and roll into desired halls. Roll in topping mixture to coat truffles. Store in refrigerator until serving time. Yield: 3-4 Dozen
shop for
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balsamic glaze (Pair Up, Feb 2010 www. LaSommelierre.com). Add mashed potatoes and roasted carrots to the plate and you have a super fast supper that is elegant enough to serve your most discriminating guest. For dessert, see if you can find wine made from fruits other than grapes. (If you can’t, a ruby port will substitute nicely). I happen to have had the fortune to come
across black raspberry fruit wine. Try the recipe for Cayenne Pepper Chocolate Truffles to nibble on while you sip the super sweet, concentrated raspberry flavor. Both are so intensely flavored, the smallest amount will satisfy your sweet cravings. So, go on. Pair Up! Maria Terry is a Certified Sommelier and Wine Educator in the San Francisco Bay Area. www.LaSommelierre.com.
Watermelon and Sweet Red Onion Salad
RASPBERRY ESSENCE 12 ounces frozen raspberries 1 (750 ml) bottle red wine (something with ripe fruit that’s good enough to drink) 1 cup sugar 1/4 teaspoon black pepper DRESSING 6 tablespoons Raspberry Essence 1/4 cup raspberry vinegar 2 tablespoons finely minced shallots 1 tablespoon honey 1/4 cup safflower oil 1 tablespoon Asian chile sauce 1/4 teaspoon salt SALAD 2 medium red onions 2 bunches watercress 3 pounds fresh watermelon, preferably both red and yellow 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves Fresh berries -- raspberries, blackberries, blueberries DIRECTIONS In a sauté pan, combine the raspberries, wine, sugar and pepper. Place over high heat, bring to vigorous boil and boil until 2 cups remain. Immediately pour MON-SAT 11-7
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the sauce through a medium meshed sieve, forcing all the pulp through the sieve by scraping it with a metal spoon. The sauce will last indefinitely in the refrigerator, but it may need to be thinned slightly with water before using. In a medium bowl, combine all the dressing ingredients, then taste and adjust the seasonings. Peel the onions, then cut into thin slices and separate into individual rings. Toss the onions with the salad dressing and marinate for two hours in the refrigerator, turning over every 30 minutes. Remove and discard the woody stems from the watercress, then refrigerate the sprigs. Cut enough watermelon into 1 to 2-inch cubes knocking away the seeds, to yield 8 cups. Cut the mint leaves into shreds and set aside. Just before serving, arrange a bed of watercress on six chilled plates -- or a single platter -- and top with watermelon. Arrange the onions attractively on top. Drizzle the dressing over the melon and onions. Garnish with the mint and fresh berries and serve at once. Yield: 6-12 servings SUN 12-5
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June 2013
Start a College Fund Now According to the College Board, for the 2012/2013 school year, the average cost of one year at a four-year public college is $22,261 (for in-state students), while the average cost for one year at a four-year private college is $43,289. By starting today, you can help your children become debt-free college grads. The secret is to save a little each month, take advantage of compound interest, and have a sum waiting for you when your child is ready for college. The following chart shows how much money might be available for college when your child turns 18 if you save a certain amount each month. But keep saving for your own retirement, too. Many well-intentioned parChilds Age Now Newborn 4 8 10 14 16
$100 per month $38,735 $26,231 $16,388 $12,283 $5,410 $2,543
ents put their own retirement savings on hold while they save for their children’s college education, but doing so potentially sacrifices your own financial security. Located at 1330 Arnold Dr. Suite #249 Martinez, CA 94553. Securities and advisory services offered through FSC Securities Corporation, a registered broker-dealer member FINRA/SIPC, a registered investment advisor. Fixed and/ or traditional insurance services offered through Gene A. Schnabel are not affiliated with FSC Securities Corporation. Not NCUA insured - may lose value - no credit union guarantee. For more information contact Gene A. Schnabel, Retirement Solutions. at 925-370-3750 or 800474-6655
$200 per month $77,471 $52,462 $32,776 $24,566 $10,820 $5,086
$300 per month $116,208 $78,693 $49,164 $36,849 $16,230 $7,629
$400 per month $154,941 $104,924 $65,552 $49,132 $21,640 $10,172
Table assumes an after-tax return of 6%, compounded monthly. This is a hypothetical example and is not intended to reflect the actual performance of any investment.
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June 2013
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IN FOCUS•IN FOCUS•IN FOCUS•IN FOCUS•IN FOCUS•IN FOCUS
New You Dance Center
NYDC owner and studio director AJ Rogers has a passion for movement and rhythm he has nurtured since he was twelve. After taking his self-taught hip hop skills to new levels by pushing through a week-long “intensive” with So You Think You Can Dance choreographer Brian Friedman, and winning numerous awards from other notable choreographers, AJ has emerged with more confidence, enthusiasm and dedication than his ripe young age of 23 would suggest. In July of 2012, AJ put his clear vision and wealth of practical experience toward the opening of NYDC in Martinez. The center focuses on making the education of proper dance form and technique an enjoyable experience. Students study disciplines from beginning ballet to tumbling and competitive hip-hop in an environment that feels like family. Its two new studios boast beautiful sprung/lifted or “floating” dance floors, as well as a quiet space for homework, and parents are welcome to observe their children in class through two viewing areas without distraction or disruption. As a director, AJ feels fortunate that he has a healthy mix of both male and female students at NYDC; in fact, it tends to be more heavily weighted on the male side, which makes the center unique. He and his teaching staff have consist-
ent, common goals for NYDC students. “New You” refers to the idea that when you push yourself even a little bit forward, you become a new person. As 14 year-old Hailey Bower attests, “AJ - Thank you for pushing me until I am so sore I feel like my legs are on fire, until I can’t walk in the mornings, until I get bruises on my feet. Thank you for putting in time and making all of us at New You, new yous.” See NYDC dancers in action at their upcoming recital on Saturday, June 29, from 10am – 1:30pm at Martinez Junior High School. For tickets please contact the NYDC office at newyoudancecenter@gmail.com or call us at 925-293-4726, or look for them in the Martinez 4th of July Parade!
Dancers Jessica Caswell, Hailey Bower, Martin Koev & Director AJ Rogers
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IN FOCUS•IN FOCUS•IN FOCUS•IN FOCUS•IN FOCUS•IN FOCUS
Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital
Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital (HVH) has again achieved the highest level of veterinary excellence following a thorough reevaluation by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA). Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital earned AAHA accreditation after a rigorous review of the hospital’s practice protocols, medical equipment, facility, and client service. The Pleasant Hill veterinary practice, first certified in 1994 and operating since 1976, is led by Joseph A. Thibedeau, DVM, Louisa M. Asseo, DVM, and Hospital Administrator Jane Thibedeau. HVH works with dogs, cats, rodents, reptiles, and rabbits. They are open Monday through Friday, from 8am to 6pm, and on Saturday from 8am to 4pm. “I would like to congratulate Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital on vigilantly keeping up with advancements in veterinary medicine and adhering to the Association’s high standards,” said Michael Cavanaugh, DVM, DABVP, who is AAHA executive director and CEO. “They are clearly committed to doing their very best, as evidenced by the hard work and effort they put into this voluntary process.” No practice is legally required to become accredited, but Hillcrest insists on continued reaccreditation. AAHA is the only organization
in the United States and Canada accrediting companion animal hospitals based on standards above and beyond state regulations. Accredited animal hospitals must adhere to more than 900 individual standards in 19 areas, including focus on patient care and pain management, surgery, pharmacy, laboratory, exam facilities, medical records, cleanliness, emergency services, dental care, diagnostic imaging, anesthesiology and continuing education. “We support our animal patients and their families with the best diagnostic, medical, and surgical methods, providing complete veterinary services for pets,” according to Dr. Thibedeau. The staff at Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital loves animals and considers them members of the family. Their slogan “The hospital with the family touch,” operates on this principle. Only the top small animal hospitals in the United States and Canada earn accreditation by AAHA. To maintain accredited status, Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital must continue to be evaluated regularly by AAHA. Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital, located at 2211 Morello Ave. in Pleasant Hill, can be reached at 925676-1909 or online at http://www. hillcrestvet.com.
The Hillcrest team, pictured L to R: Krishna Tesar, Dan Howland, Julia Aplin, Heather Konefal, Dr. Joe Thibedeau, Jane Thibedeau, Dr. Louisa Asseo, Lauren Meneghetti, Christina Sands, and Rhonda Cayford. Not pictured are Liz Platt, RosaNeva Hiraga, Alexandra Hughes and Esmeralda Fitzsimons.
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June 2013
Northern California Ford/AAA Repair Champions The Alhambra High School team of Joey Exner and Ryan Geoffrey took first place in the Northern California Ford/ AAA Auto Repair Championships, thus making Alhambra High the two-time champions. Ryan and Joey, both seniors, qualified for the state “hands-on” competition by taking a written knowledge test last February. Ten teams from Northern California and ten teams from Southern California qualified for the state test. The two boys, along with Automotive Technology Teacher Brian Wheeler, had about six weeks to prepare for the competition, held at the Blackhawk Auto Museum in Danville on May 3. During the competition, each of the ten teams was given a faulty new Ford ve-
By Jaki Jones hicle and an hour and a half to diagnose Alhambra High School that has been the the car and repair it. The issues varied, Northern California winner for the past but many of the problems were electritwo years. cal. Each team had the same basic tools Exner and Geoffrey each received and a “hood closing time,” which meant $30,000 scholarships to the Universal as soon as their car was repaired, they Technical Institute (UTI) in Sacramento closed the hood and judges recorded the to further their automotive education. time. The cars did not get judged if they They will also have opportunities to go couldn’t make it across the finish line. to some Ford trainings. The winners “This was a startling year (because) there from last year’s competition are currently were only two teams that got their hoods training at UTI. “There is so much in closed and made it across the finish line; this for the kids. I told the guys who are ours was the first,” said Wheeler. up at UTI right now, ‘you’re going to go Northern California competes with to college; it’s good you’re doing this and Southern California simultaneously, and you can do whatever you want with your although a Southern California high automotive career if you have a degree— school has come away victorious the past make college your second stop,’” said few years and moved on to the nationWheeler. wide finals in Dearborn, Michigan, it is Wheeler has 130 automotive students each year, including three classes
Is Your Battery Okay?
Submitted by Hagin’s Staff A dead battery is by far the biggest charged and load tested. If it fails the reason roadside services are called out. load test, it is time to replace it. To reduce the risk of being stranded with a The best way to determine the condition of your battery is to perform a load dead battery, you should have it load test. We offer this service at Hagin’s Au- tested every oil change or every three months. You should also have the water tomotive. Give us a call if you have any level checked and topped off, although questions about your vehicle. some batteries are sealed and can’t be There are three common reasons serviced. Inspect for signs of corrosion why your battery could fail: 1) the at the battery post and battery cable lights, radio, etc. were left on; 2) its terminals and, if present, have the cortime is simply up. The life expectancy rosion cleaned off and install anti-corof a battery is 3 – 7 years, depending rosion pads on the battery post. on it’s quality and operating condi For help with you battery or any tions; 3) the alternator is not chargother car concerns please call us at ing the battery. Whatever your battery 925-228-5115. failure is caused by, you should have it
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of freshman. “My goal is not just to get them through here and not just to have them work on cars, but to have careers. The electronics’ guys always do better than everybody else -- the guys who can diagnose the complex problems and fix them. I have great kids to work with and it’s a real privilege working here,” continued Wheeler. In case you were wondering, Wheeler has 24 young women taking his classes, evenly spaced from 9th through 12th grade. This is his fourth year teaching at Alhambra High School. He spent 30 years in the automotive repair industry. The Ford/AAA Student Auto Skills Competition offers millions in scholarships each year to the best young automotive technicians competing at both the state and national level.
Ryan Geoffrey, Brian Wheeler, Instructor and Joey Exner. Photo by Ford/AAA Photographer
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June 2013
Page 17
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June 2013
Grad Announcements
Anthony Baleto, Nick Burnham,
Cody Teifel, College Park
Dakota Valdez, College Park
Lucas Kelso, College Park
Kevin Wildes, College Park
Cody, congratulations on your gradu-
Congratulations on your success. We
Lucas congratulations on your gradu-
From PHBA t-ball to Cuesta College.
ation!! We are very excited to see you
are very proud of you. All our love,
ation. You have found a path to suc-
Congratulations!! Love, Your families.
attain your goals in the years to come.
Mom & Dad
cess regardless of what life has tossed
We love you and are very proud of
in your way. I am very proud of you
you! Love, Mom, Dad, Melissa & Knox
and the man you have become. Mom & Tyler
Bryan J. McWatters, College Park
Max Creamer, College Park
Congratulations to you my son. We
Congratulations Max! You’ve done the
have had an amazing journey and
Devin Humm, College Park
hard work and now your opportunities
cannot wait for many more amazing
Here’s to you, Devin! We are so proud
are endless. We are so proud of you.
Peter J. Schoemann, College Park
years of your life. I love you and am so
of the young man you have become.
Good luck at San Diego State. Dad,
Congratulations on your graduation
proud of you. Mom
We know whatever you choose, wher-
Mom, Brett and Ryan.
and cheers to your academic and
ever you go, you will be successful.
athletic success. Your commitment to
We love you, Mom & Dad
school, Falcons’ NorCal Champion basketball team and Diablo Futbol Club will serve you well as you move on to CalPoly in San Luis Obispo.
Nelson Fisher, College Park
Nevada Huie, College Park
Congratulations Nelson. We are so
Congratulations Nevada we are so
proud of you and all that you have ac-
Kelly Martz, College Park
proud of you! It has been a great joy
complished at College Park. We are
Congratulations Kelly! We are so proud
to watch you become the man you
excited to see what lies ahead for you
of you and your accomplishments.
are today. Looking forward to seeing
at HNU. Love always Mom, Dad and
May your experience at Cal Poly next
what life has to offer you!
Noah
year be the start of the next successful
Your family is so proud of you, Wilson!
chapter in your life. Love, Mom, Dad
Pursue what makes you happy and
and Amy
success will follow. “Change the World
Wilson Jones, College Park
and Think Differently.”
June 2013
www.ourcommunityfocus.com
CP Baseball Grads This is truly the end of an era as most of these boys have played together for years, citing that their favorite baseball memory was participating in the Cooperstown tournament together at age twelve. Baleto, Wildes and Burnham are planning to play together then join teammates Acton, Martz and Utler at Cal Poly. (Utler is deciding between Cal Poly and San Diego). Hennessy is headed to NY for college. Hantos, and Tamaru are hoping to play for DVC where Demers will be studying and Bodishbaugh plans to “protect us from fires.” Good luck boys!
Time to retire the CP baseball gear for these seniors: Back L to R: managers Tanner Utler and Jack Demers, Kelly Martz, Nick Burnham, Tommy Acton, Daniel Bodisbaugh. Front L to R: Kevin Wildes, Nick Tamaru, Sean Hennessy, Stephen Hantos, and Anthony Baleto.
Nelson Fisher
Signs Letter of Intent College Park High School senior Nelson Fisher signed an NCAA Division 2 letter of intent to play mens volleyball at Holy Name University. He was the 4-year varsity starting setter for CP and played 5 years with Diablo Valley Volleyball club. He will be majoring in Sports Biology.
Page 19
Soaring to New Heights
By TJ Tamura, College Park Junior source of fresh energy for the team, and When people think about track and he is always working hard at practice to field, visions appear of runners, high “get better and vault higher.” jumpers, long jumpers, and throwers. Tony Vasquez explains that “pole However, visit any track and field event vaulting is a unique sport, and there is and far off in the distance you will see nothing else quite like it.” another more mysterious event taking I agree with everything my teamplace – the pole vault. This group of mates have said about why they pardedicated, and often overlooked athletes practices day in and day out with one goal ticipate in this sport, however, there is something else that keeps me coming out – to jump higher and higher. It becomes to the “Pit” – breaking the school record a significant aspect of their life, as they of 14’8.5”, which was set back in the realize they have joined a special group 1970’s. I’ve got 1 ½ track and field seasons that begins to function more as a family than individual athletes. The College Park left with the Falcons to accomplish this goal. So the next time you are driving on High School Falcons, led by their Coach Viking Drive and see the lights on at the Mr. Holland, are no exception. Here is track, take a peak over the west side of the what some of the vaulters have to say about the sport, their teammates and their fence and watch the pole vaulters as they soar to new PR (personal record) heights individual goals. and make their mark on the history books Jenna Carroll, a junior at College of College Park High School Sports. Park and first year pole vaulter, says she began vaulting because “it seemed thrilling and fun.” She reflects,“it lived up to my expectations and then some, because we have our little pole vault family now.” Jenna is joined by two other first-year female vaulters, Mayuko Butterfield and Katelyn Cunningham. Mayuko, a sophomore, agrees: “Our club is like a family.” She also added that vaulting is a very technical sport that requires an immense amount of concentration and focus to improve. There is always more to learn about the sport. Kai Barnes, a sophomore and first year vaulter for the boys, describes the vaulting team as “the best group of friends I could ever ask for.” Kai has been a major TJ training for DVAL, where he earned first place.
Friends, Always
Photo by Janice Kelso
CP seniors, friends since kindergarten at Strandwood Elementary, enjoy their pre-senior ball party. Back row: Lucas Kelso, Nick Burnham, Sean Ewing, Taylor Williams (began 4th grade Strandwood), Nicole Santos, Katie Choiniere, Claire Alden, Hannah Webb, Dakota Valdez, Maddie Monahan, Savannah Roll and Alyssa Jordan.
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Page 20
HOME TEAM
June 2013
CP Track and Field Highlights
Senior Kendall Stuscavage set two new meet records at the DVAL championships. She ran the1600M with the record time of 5.08.21, and the 800 in a time of 2.22.24. She came in 3rd in the 400 with the time of 1:01.62 and anchored the winning 4 x 400 relay team with Olivia Ray, Erika Kemp and Victoria Miguel with
the time of 4:13.64. Kendall was awarded DVAL Girls MVP by the league coaches. On May 18, at the North Coast Sectionals (NCS), Kendall had personal best times and placed 3rd in the 800 meters with the time of 2:16.97 and 4th in the 1600 (5:02.01). Jamie Busby - a freshman, won the
MPHFC United Takes First Congratulations to the Martinez-Pleasant Hill Futbol Club’s team United for taking first place in the U14 girls’ division at Comstock Shootout on April 27 and 28 in Carson City, Nevada! United faced several strong opponents in their bracket and advanced to the championship game to face the Hawks, a South Tahoe Futbol Club team. The match was even until late in the second half when United scored and edged out the Hawks 1-0 to win first place. In the four games played, United scored eight goals while allowing only one. Congratulations to all United’s players and coaches.
Standing LtoR: Coach Ken Olmsted, Kelly Seto, Vanessa Hughes, Helena Contreras, Callie Johnson, Madison Dunlap, Sarah Exner, Nikki Rucki, and Coach Ali Nikooei. Kneeling: Tatiana Nikooei, Madeleine Gorham, Abby Lee, Caitlin Logan, Lindsey Alford, Josie Baca and Mackenzie Goulding. Seated: Taylor Smith and Mackenzie Duarte.
U16 Titans Win Concord
The Titans took home first place medals from the Concord Cup May 19 and placed 3rd at the Davis World Cup on May 27.
Back row LtoR: Coach Allan Troche, Alex Ewing, Cole Hutslar, Tim Kennen, Ray Muhlenkamp, Dylan Nye, Lee Verrall, Owen Casebeer, Andrew Stone and Coach Susan Feierabend. Front row: Daniel Elerding, Alan Hernandez, Dylan Troche, Michael Zamora, Jared Rayl, Elias Peters, Dakota Seidenspinner, Roarke Hadfield and Coach Molly Zamora. Photo by Nick Rayl.
DVAL 3200M (11:52.88), and came in second in the 1600M in a time of 5:18.01. She placed 11th and 12th at NCS respectively. At DVAL, freshman Ray Jackson took 1st in the 100M (11.14), and 2nd in the 200M with the time of 22.78. Sophomore Mayuko Butterfield placed 1st in the triple jump (33.01.5), and 300M Hurdles (49.20) and placed third in the Pole Vault (height of 8’) at DVAL. She gained personal bests in all events at NCS, placing 9th, 12th and 10th respectively. TJ Tamura took first place at DVAL in Pole Vault with the height of 12’ and placed 5th at NCS with the height of 13’ 4 - his personal best.
The boys 4 x 400 relay team (Edgar Hernandez, David Phair, Parker Mason and Andrew Tabone) came in 1st at DVAL avenging regular season losses to Northgate and Clayton Valley, with their season best time of 3:33.64. Coach Llacuna remarked, “As coach I was pleased with the effort and the fact that many athletes set personal bests during the DVAL and NCS meets. It was my first year at College Park. Due to my late hiring we had no preseason, starting our training over 2 months after the rest of the league. It was a good foundation-building year and we look towards greater success in the coming years. I am already excited about next year.
Lady Bulldogs Take DFAL
The Lady Bulldogs had another successful season, boasting an overall record of 23-3-1 and 12-0 in league play. They had their sights on the North Coast Sectional (NCS) championships, having beaten Northgate 11-1 in their first playoff game May 21 and Carondelet 6-5 on May 24. Alhambra boasted some hitting power with a team average of .418 and a national ranking of 102. Junior shortstop Kylee Perez ended the season with a batting average of .618, scoring 46 runs, 51 RBIs and 42 hits including 12 home runs. Bella Gonsalves had 38 hits, scored 38 runs and batted .458. Sophomore catcher Courtney Kelly, batted
.467 and had 31 RBI’s. Second-baseman Hailey Sparacino ended her junior year with a .407 average, with 35 runs, 28 RBIs and a team-best 12 doubles. Nicole Curry, .474, collected 12 home runs, 9 doubles and 44 RBIs. Erin Enke, pitcher (20-2, with a 1.03 ERA) contributed to the team averages, batting .452 with 28 hits, 6 of them home runs, and 24 RBIs. Alhambra was seeded second in NCS behind number one Petaluma. They came up short, losing to Clayton Valley in the semi finals, 5-10 on May 29. The young Bulldog team will be sure to have another run at the NCS championships next year.
Sabotage Wins
AYSO select U12 girls Sabotage took first place at Comstock Shootout with 3 shutouts in the tournament. In the championship game they allowed just one goal, bringing them to a tie and having to go to PK’s to decide the winner. Goalie Victoria Gray blocked all kicks made by MDSA1, allowing no goals. Sabotage was triumphant with a score of 3-1.
1st row: Meagan Jensen, Erin Moore, Bella Puljiz, Izzy Berkowitz and Isabella Hankin. 2nd row: Coach Jeff Foerste, Alyssa Walker, Rylee McCormick, Katie Foerste, Coach Bob Puljiz, Sloan Sullivan, Victoria Gray, Jackie Brown, Jessica Miller and Coach Carl McCormick. Submitted by Lia McCormick.
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June 2013
Page 21
HOME TEAM
DVC Swimming/Diving - Top Athletes in State The Diablo Valley College swim team hosted the Big 8 Conference Championship April 18-20 in Pleasant Hill. The Vikings won both the mens and womens titles, breaking a number of meet records in the process. On April 25, DVC competed at the CA Community College State finals in Los Angeles, which was comprised of athletes from 33 colleges. DVC women received second place and the men placed third. Standout athletes include: Monty Randall, College Park grad and DVC freshman, broke two Big 8 Championship meet records in the 100 and 200yard butterfly. At the State Championships Monty placed 1st in the 200 (1:50.11) and 1st in the 100 (48.40), narrowly missing the record of 48.13. Lee Ward, a sophomore, broke the Big 8 Championship record in the 200-
Shaila Yoder
yard free, placed 1st in the 500 and 2nd in the 100. In the State Championship, Ward placed 3rd in the 500 (4:29.10), 3rd in 200 (1:39.48) and 8th in the 100 (46.69). Women’s sophomore swimmer Shaila Yoder broke a record at the Big 8 in the 50yard breaststroke and placed 1st in the 100. At State she set a state record in the 50-yard
AHS NCS Qualifiers
Congratulations to Alhambra High Track and Field NCS Qualifiers: Jack Robinson (High Jump) 5’10, placed 11th at NCS. Selena Haefke (Shotput) 30’4. Selena scored her personal best at NCS at 31’11, placing 8th. Allie Timbrell (1600) 5:08.33. Allie’s personal best was 5:06.49 set on April 27, for first at Sacramento Meet of Champions. Kay Bromley (100 H) 17.47 and (300 H) 50.55, placing 9th at NCS in the 100 H with 17.28. Joel Timbrell (800) 1:59.41. Sires Ceasar (Shotput) 40’4. Ciazonne Foster, Harits Abdurrohman, Jose Gonzales & Keith Farwell (Mens 4x100 relay) 44.94, placing 9th at NCS with a time of 44.52. Keith Farwell, Jack Robinson, J’Bari Bonner & Harits Abdurrohman (Mens 4x400 relay) 3:34.85.
Lee Ward
breaststroke with a time of 29:43 and placed 1st in the 100 (1:04.69). Sophomore Taylor Henry placed 1st in the 50 free and tied for 2nd in the 50 fly at the Big 8 event. At the State event, she placed 6th in the 50 free (24.67), 5th in 50 fly (26.46) and 7th in 50 back (27.97). Freshman Riley Hagan placed 1st in the Big 8 mens 50 and 100 free and 2nd in the 50 fly. Riley placed 10th in the 50 fly at
State (51.87). Hannah Voegtly, sophomore and YV grad, tied for 2nd in the 50 fly and placed 3rd in the 100 fly and 4th in the 50 back at the Big 8. At State, she placed 1st in fly (25.87), 6th in 50 back (27.88) and 7th in the 100 fly (58.83). The mens 400-yard medley relay team placed first in State (3:25.00): Mitchell Youhanna (FR), Lee Ward (SO), Monty Randall (FR), Riley Hagan (FR). Lady Vikings placed second in State’s 200-yard medley relay (1:46.97): Chrissie Adarme (FR), Hannah Voegtly (SO), Shaila Yoder (SO), Taylor Henry (SO). Both DVC freshmen divers placed at the Big 8 and at State. Shelly Jones placed 2nd at the Big 8 in the 3 meter, 8th in State’s 3 meter, and 6th in the 1 meter. College Park grad Will Griffiths, placed 6th in the 1 meter at Big 8 and 15th and 14th at State’s 3 meter and 1 meter respectively.
DVC Women All American
Chrisse Adarme, Alyson Haylor, Taylor Henry, Caitlin Hornbuckle, Shelly Jones (Diving], Jaymee Krochka, Lauren McCullough, Nadeen Nasaar, Katie O’Connor, Erin Ranahan, Emily Saccullo, Hannah Voegtly, Shaila Yoder
DVC Men All American
Austin Akre, Steven Gordon, Will Griffiths (Diving), Riley Hagan, Blake Hollis, Dominic Patterson, Montana Randall, Jacob Reynolds, Tyler Sayre, Nick Viana, Lee Ward, Mitchell Youhanna
Tigers are Champs
Pitch and Run Winners
Pleasant Hill Baseball Association (PHBA) hosted a Pitch, Hit and Run competition on Sunday, April 7 at Pleasant Oaks Park. The event was sponsored by Major League Baseball and was for boys and girls ages 7-14. PHBA presented awards to the winners of each age bracket on Sunday April 14 at the snack shack at Pleasant Oaks Park. Winners include Aiden Foster, Aidan Roe, Brianna Meredith, Megan Upshaw, Samuel Restuch, Aidan Payne-Kraus, Joey Alvazian, Ryan Bleeker, Olivia Lee, Amaya Lee, Nic Doorlay, Ben Roe, Ashley Rolandelli, Marissa Raynor, Emma Woodworth, Gabbie Ferron, Evan Doorlay, AJ Speer and Leila Foster.
The PHBA American League for 9/10 year-old boys division was loaded this year. With eighteen teams, it was the largest division in the league. Coached by Jim Pedrotti, Damon Hansen and Guy Benedetto, the Tigers finished the regular season with a record of 7-7, earning the 9th seed in the championship tournament. In the second round, the Tigers beat the 15-0 Rockies in an amazing 2-0 game that featured great pitching and defense. The championship finals featured the Tigers vs. the Phillies in another good pitching duel that saw the Tigers come out on top 5-2. The Tigers’ pitcher, Dylan Fortini, appeared in every playoff game without giving up a single run. Both Jimmy Pedrotti and Brandon Crawford batted 4-9 during the playoffs, and defense was anchored by All-Star catcher, Miguel Ledesma. All the boys contributed during the 4-0 playoff run. Way to go Tigers! Story submitted by Jim Pedrotti. Photo by Kathy Pierce.
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June 2013
Pleasant Hill Middle School Track Meet
The annual Pleasant Hill Middle School all-school track meet was held on May 15-17. Throughout the 3-day meet 8 records were broken. Below is a list of the top winners in all 10 events. Congratulations to all the competitors!
6th Grade 50-Yard Dash, Boys: Josh Chambers, 6.71, Girls: Charley Stoudt, 6.92. 100-Yard Dash, Boys: Josh Chambers, 13.29, Girls: Charley Stoudt, 13.29. 220-Yard Dash, Boys: Josh Chambers, 30.37, Girls: Charley Stoudt, 31.84. 440-Yard Dash, Boys: Angelo Fernando, 1:09.96, Girls: Julia Hagedorn, 1:12.7. 440 Relay, Boys: Kyle Crossman, Riley Noon, Ian Pascual and Jonathan Poff, 1:01. 68, Girls: Jasmine Brown, Julia Hagedorn, Jenna Jacoby and Sloan Sullivan, 1:02.61 – NEW RECORD. Mile, Boys: Mark DeBoer, 6:16.14, Girls: Olivia Bielskis 6.35:32. Shot Put, Boys: Elias Davis, 34’1.5”, Girls: Fabiola Salgado, 24’.5”. High Jump, Boys: Josh Chambers, 4’7” – NEW RECORD, Girls: Lindsay Simpson 4’0”. Long Jump, Boys: Kyle Burkhart, 12’11”, Girls: Jasmine Brown 11’10”. Softball Throw, Boys: Ian Pascual, 186’6”, Girls: Megan Downing, 130’6”.
7th Grade 50-Yard Dash, Boys: Arthur Pectoom, 6.24, Girls: Stephanie Neys, 7.07. 100-Yard Dash, Boys: Arthur Pectoom 11.78, Girls: Sophia Cervantes-Llamas, 12.79. 220-Yard Dash, Boys: Arthur Pectoom, 27.18, Girls: Sophia Cervantes-Ilamas, 30.06. 440-Yard Dash, Boys: Arthur Pectoom, 1:00.93, Girls: Sophia Cervantes-Llamas, 1:08.43 – NEW RECORD. 440 Relay, Boys: Anthony Alcorn, Armando Cruz, Jacob Eide and Jose Moreno, 56.83. Girls: Marlo Allen, Francesca Monti, Olivia Schmidt and Jazmin Schwab 1:01.56. Mile, Boys: Jacob Eide, 5:38.63, Girls: Annie Klopstock, 6:36.14. Shot Put, Boys: Zachary Wilson, 32’11”, Girls: Adriana Gonzalez, 29’1.5”. High Jump, Boys: Nicholas Bayley 4’8”, Girls: Sophie Harrington, 4’4” – Tied Record. Long Jump, Boys: Brian Solorio, 15’5”, Girls: Francesca Monti, 13’7.5”. Softball Throw, Boys: Dean
Jones, 225’2” – NEW RECORD, Girls: Emily Ochoa, 131’10”. 8th Grade 50-Yard Dash, Boys: Nick Lombardi 6.10, Girls: Lucy Murov, 6.76. 100-Yard Dash, Boys: Brandon Menjivar, 11.49. Girls: Lucy Murov, 12.36. 220-Yard Dash, Boys: Tre Brown, 27.83, Girls: Lucy Murov, 29.72 – NEW RECORD. 440-Yard Dash, Boys: Luis Macias, 1:00.42, Girls: Gabby Tambazidis, 1:10.09. 440 Relay, Boys: Sean Rigley, Luis Macias, Brandon Menjivar and DJ McInnis, 52.63. Girls: Caryssa Salling, Katie Christman, Priscilla Renteria and Cassie Silva 1:02.01. Mile, Boys: Reece Burkhart, 5:15.93, Girls: Gabby Tambazidis, 6:26.50. Shot Put, Boys: Colton Uribe, 39’.4”, Girls: Sarah Wehrer, 31’2”. High Jump, Boys: Tre Brown, 5’0”, Girls: Kayla Bingham, 4’2”. Long Jump, Boys: Sean Rigley, 16’7”, Girls: Gabby Tambazidis, 14’2” – NEW RECORD. Softball
Throw, Boys: Saul Montoyo, 246’10” – NEW RECORD, Girls: Molly Seibel, 178’4” – NEW RECORD.
Gabby Tambazidis readies herself for the mile.
Now Enrolling for JULY PERFORMING ARTS SUMMER CAMP
Get ready for a SUPER SUMMER with CAMP SUPERSTAR! Are you looking for a fun, friendly and local camp for your children to participate in this summer? The Village Music School staff has a dynamic and engaging summertime arts program lined up right here in Pleasant Hill. All families throughout the community are invited to take advantage of this great time, an introductory camp that focuses on the performing arts: CAMP SUPERSTAR! Children aged 5-11 are welcome to join Village Center for the Arts for a no-experience-necessary summer camp full of music, games, arts & crafts, movement, theatre and more! Campers will have so much FUN creating, playing games and exploring the world of music and the arts in an all-inclusive, encouraging environment. Referral Special - Spread the Word! Village is offering a special promotion for anyone enrolled in Camp Superstar who refers a friend to enroll. Campers will receive 25% off their half-day tuition for each friend they refer who participates in the camp. This offer has no limit; if a camper refers 4 friends who participate, that camper will receive complimentary tuition for a full week, half-day camp!
Camp Dates: (campers are welcome to attend one week or all three): Session I: July 8-12 | Session II: July 15-19 | Session III: July 22-26 Camp Times: (campers are welcome to attend in the morning, afternoon or all day long!) AM 8:30am-Noon | PM 1pm-4pm | ALL DAY 8:30am-4pm (extended care available for additional fee).
Call 925-676-8400 or visit VillageCenterfortheArts.org to get more information about any of our programs or to REGISTER TODAY! Village Music School has been providing music education programs to the community for over ten years. Call anytime to inquire about private music lessons or any of the fun group classes offered at Village Center for the Arts.
Village Center for the Arts - 1720 Linda Drive Pleasant Hill, CA 94523 PAID ADVERTORIAL
Seventh graders Sophia Cervantes-Llamas, Francesca Monti, Sophia Harrington, Stephanie Neys, Mindy With and Maila Manlapeg, competing in the 100-yard dash.
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June 2013
Page 23
Recreation and Park Updates
Teen Center Concert Series ready to ROCK! The walls of the Pleasant Hill Teen Center will be shaking on June 7 as College Park bands Brick and Sitting on the Floor headline the Teen Center Concert Series, starting at 7pm at 147 Gregory Lane. All ages are welcome! Tickets are only $5 and are available ahead of time at the Teen Center, but will also be sold at the door. Drinks and snacks will be available for purchase at the snack shack. For more information on the Teen Center Concert Series, call the Teen Center at (925) 691-5645. It’s Family Camp Out Time! On Saturday, June 29, join the fun as Pleasant Hill Park becomes Camp Pleasant Hill. Enjoy your STAYCATION with time outdoors as you introduce your kids to camping. This is fun for the whole family with activities, crafts, campfire with s’mores, music and an outdoor movie at sundown. Snacks, dinner and breakfast will be available for purchase from the Teen Center snack shack. Check
in starts at 3pm on Saturday, June 29, with activities beginning at 4:30pm. For more information or to register visit www.pleasanthillrec.com or call (925) 682-0896. PHR&PD participates in the World’s Largest Swim Lesson Tuesday, June 18, 8:00-8:30am – FREE! (pre-registration required). Join Pleasant Hill Recreation & Park District, along with kids and parents at aquatic facilities across the county and around the world as they set a new Guinness World Record ™ for the largest simultaneous swimming lesson ever conducted in order to spread the word that Swim-
ming Lessons Save Lives! ™ swimming is a life-saving skill for children and a vital tool to prevent drowning, the second leading cause of unintended, injuryrelated death for children ages 1-14. Research shows if a child doesn’t learn to swim by the third grade, they likely never will. The World’s Largest Swimming Lesson™ was created to serve as a platform to help local community aquatic facilities and the many different national, regional and state-wide water safety and drowning prevention organizations work together to tell this important story on a local and national level. Pre-registration is required. Check in begins at 7:30am at the Pleasant Hill
Aquatic Park Pool, 147 Gregory Lane. All students must be in place and ready to start the lesson at 8:00am in order to qualify for the Guinness World Record attempt. All students must have a signed aquatics liability waiver on file. Summer Fun at the Teen Center The Teen Center has a number of options for summer fun. The Xtreme Camp includes three trips each week full of adventure. This five-day camp also includes swimming and a weekly potluck BBQ. If you are looking for something a little more flexible, the Teen Center will have a Summer Drop-in Program Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday afternoons from 1-5pm for a daily rate of $10. The Summer Drop-in Program includes all the amenities of the Teen Center (i.e., pool table, foosball table, games, Wii, computers) as well as swimming on Wednesdays. For more information or to sign up for the Xtreme Camp or the Summer Drop-in Program, call (925) 691-5645 or visit www.pleasanthillrec.com.
YMCA Celebrates Kids
On Saturday, April 27, the Irvin Deutscher Family (IDF) YMCA celebrated YMCA’s Healthy Kids Day® with a free community event to encourage kids to get moving and living healthier. Healthy Kids Day, the Y’s national initiative to improve families’ health and well-being, took place at 1,900 YMCA locations nationwide to kick-start healthier behaviors throughout the summer, a critical out-of-school time for children’s health. Over 150 kids along with their parents participated in fun, active play and educational activities such as pool games, family relay, yoga for kids and arts & crafts. Pleasant Hill Mayor Dr. Michael Harris and the IDF YMCA Board Chair started off the event with a Family Fun Walk. For more about the Y and its great programs for kids and families, please call 925-687-8900 or visit the Y’s website at www.YMCA–CBA.org.
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www.ourcommunityfocus.com
June 2013
In the Mix I can’t believe it’s the beginning of summer 2013! And when it’s time for summer vacations, there’s nothing better than throwing some music on in your car for the long ride or sitting in your backyard sipping your favorite beverage while waiting for the burgers to cook on the grill. This month I’d like to review some great new CDs that feature local musicians: a little something for everyone. I highly recommend any or all of these: 1. Sacred Ground by California Transit Authority (CTA) In 1969, the band we now know as Chicago rocked the music world. Initially called Chicago Transit Authority, the band debuted its album by the same name before the City of Chicago’s transit company took legal action and the band renamed itself Chicago. Their specialty of fusing blues, jazz and rock was truly innovative. But as the years went by, the band went for more of a pop sound and, frankly, lost some of its distinctive and energized high-octane mix produced on their debut album. Original drummer Danny Seraphine decided to put a band together called California Transit Authority and get back to that jazz/rock genre. He recruited accomplished guitarist/ composer and former Walnut Creek resident, Marc Bonilla, whose coproducing and co-writing are front-
Dallimonti’s
By Paul Cotruvo, Cover2Cover and-center throughout the project. rave reviews and is a throw back to the word with drama and passion. Not sure how Marc finds the time as Neil Young Harvest period of the West Some of the highlights are “Gotta he also works on the hit show Justified, Coast country-rock scene. But that’s Write Love Songs,” an infectious littours and records with Keith Emernot to say this album is a retread, quite tle pure pop tune; “Stars Align,” a tune son (Emerson, Lake and Palmer), and the opposite. It is an uplifting modern written by her father Brian Walker, also records his own material. Marc alternative country album. I would say another great local Martinez resident; was also featured a few years ago on this album has a very laid back, honest and “Family Band,” a song which is the very first Come Together show in feel to it and its sparse instrumentalike a great little bluegrass anthem and Pleasant Hill. CTA is built on Serawill have you singing at the top of your tion brings out the great songwriting. phine’s beloved music heritage of blazSome of these songs have even ended lungs in your car. My favorite song, ing brass, taut funk, searing guitars, up being a part of the Counting Crows though, is a remake of the Blondie and adventurous musicianship. song “Dreaming.” She slows it down to set list. Danny and Marc’s second album, Some of the highlights are: “Four a great folk song. Sacred Ground, has all new original White Stallions,” “Mercy,” “Angeline” 3. Tender Mercies by Tender Mercies material and is everything they could and “Ball and Chain,” but overall, this Tender Mercies is the side project of have hoped for. The vocals are shared album is great from start to finish. This two members of the Counting Crows, by Marc, Larry Braggs (Tower of Powguitarist Dan Vickery and local Walnut would be a great road trip CD! er), and Will Champlin (son of legen Look for these albums at your local Creek resident and drummer Jim Bodary Bill Champlin of Sons of Champgios. The band actually goes back many music store or you can download them lin fame and Chicago singer for many at iTunes and other online services. years, when Dan met singer-songwrityears). Bill even shows up and delivers Quote of the month: er Patrick Winningham at the Hotel a knock out performance on the song “It’s a smile, it’s a kiss, it’s a sip of wine Utah in San Francisco. The band’s de“Full Circle.” Highlights are the title ... it’s summertime!” - Kenny Chesney but album was released last year with tune “Sacred Ground,” “I’ll Love You More Than You Ever Know” and Bonilla’s “Staring at the Sun.” Get this one now! June 6: The Chris Cain Band, Armando’s, 707 Marina Vista, Martinez, 8pm 2. Gold Rush Goddess by Melody June 8: The Famous Three-O, Dallimonti’s, 1932 Oak Park Blvd., Pleasant Hill, 9:30pm Walker June 9: Zoo Station, Pleasant Hill Summer by the Lake Series, 100 Gregory Lane, 6pm Former Alhambra High School June 13: Frankie G & The Conviction, Armando’s, 707 Marina Vista, Martinez, 8pm graduate Melody Walker, along with June 13: Ken Cooper, Rocco’s Pizzeria, 2909 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek, 8pm partner Jacob Groopman, describes June 23: East Bay Mudd, Pleasant Hill Summer by the Lake Series, 100 Gregory Lane, 6pm their music as “Americali,” Americana June 29: Delta Wires, Armando’s, 707 Marina Vista, Martinez, 8pm music with a California twist. It’s a perJune 29: The Big Jangle, Dallimonti’s, 1932 Oak Park Blvd., Pleasant Hill, 9:30pm fect description of their music, which touches on bluegrass, folk, jazz and pop. This CD is a perfect blend of all those genres. Melody’s vocals are spot on and draw you in as she fills every
PAUL’S PICKS FOR JUNE
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June 2013
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925.228.8787 phone • 925.228.8769 fax
Page 25
‘Cold Stone On-Site' 2013 Summer Tour
June 1st, 8th, 15th Pleasant Hill Farmers’ Market 22nd & 29th Crescent Drive at the Downtown Plaza June 9th Sunset by the Lake Concerts
WE CATER!
ZOO Station (U2 Tribute Band) - Pleasant Hill City Hall
June 14th Lafayette Concerts - Rock the Plaza
Azure Moon
June 20th Summer Concert Series
Mixed Nuts - Moraga Commons Park
Do you have a big event coming up? Don’t want to cook?
June 21st Lafayette Concerts - Rock the Plaza
The Floorshakers
June 23rd Sunset by the Lake Concerts
Let CMTH take care of all your catering needs!
East Bay Mudd - Pleasant Hill City Hall
June 24th Drew Gooden’s Celebrity Golf Tournament
We Offer A Variety Of Fresh And Healthy Ingredients, Many Locally Sourced. Snacks Or Full Meals, Pick Up, Drop Off Or Full Service.
Round Hill Country Club - Alamo
June 27th Summer Concert Series
Because (Beatles Tribute Band) - Moraga Commons Park
June 28th Lafayette Concerts - Rock the Plaza
Starters • Salads • Sandwiches • Entrees • Desserts
The Buzztones
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For more information on our catering menu & booking details, please call General Manager Kevin Sharp at (925) 250-6904 or Email: Kevin@creekmonkey.com
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sic u M E V LI 6-8pm!
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FOOD & Fun every c Pleasant Hill City Hall
Gregory Ln & Cleaveland Rd
oncert
Join us for all the concerts this summer! Jul 7...Spin Out Jul 21...Bell Brothers Aug 4...Dave Martin House Party Aug 18...Cover2Cover Sep 1...Gumbo Stew The following restaurants are tentatively scheduled to sell food:
tion Jun 9... Zoo Sta U2 Tribute Band
May 26 Jun 9 Jun 23 Jul 7 Jul 21 Aug 4 Aug 18 Sep 1
Taqueria Los Gallos Slow Hand BBQ Steel Smokin BBQ Covey Pizza Zachary's Pizza Kinder’s BBQ Kinder's BBQ Taqueria Los Gallos
Ice cream and shaved ice available for purchase at all concerts!
Visit www.pleasanthillconcerts.com for all concert information.
Series Sponsors City of Pleasant Hill
Concert Sponsors
Jun 23...East Ba y MUDD Funk/R&B
Sponsored by Pleasant Hill Civic Action Commission
Sheila’s
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Page 26
THE GARDEN
Happy Summer Gardening
By Lesley Stiles As solar heat and water provoke June boasts the tugboat-sized vegetables, beneficial longest daylight and mischievous pests both grow with hours of the year in a mob mentality in the garden. Lady the Northern Hemibugs - good, snails - bad. We keep orsphere. Icelandic folkganic in all our gardens, and my motto lore says bathing nais the more you plant good stuff, the ked in morning dew less trouble you have with weeds and on June 24 will keep aging at bay, and pests. We have been told that Sluggo if you are wearing pearls, the stone of is good for snails and slugs because it health and longevity, you’ll be doubly is compressed wheat gluten that exblessed. pands in stomachs of mollusks. As for Perhaps this is why young cougophers, voles or moles go, you’re on ples worldwide tie the knot in June, your own. Start smart and if you are or maybe it’s because June is named using boxes to grow gardens, cover after Juno, the Goddess of Marriage. bottoms many times over with chicken June brides make last minute, needless wire before adding dirt. This will alpreparations, while June grooms dismost certainly keep out burrowing critconnect from the madness by getting inebriated, realizing that anything they ters, short of physical violence. We just learn to coexist with them and try to do or say could be catastrophic at best and wedding-canceling at worst. These devour as much as they do, only quicker. rituals can possibly be attributed to Happy gardening, and if you are the ancient Celtic planting traditions, which revolve around massive amounts not gardening, take full advantage of all the seasonal farmers’ markets open of food and drink for the masses, and all over our valley right now for breathlead to the current tradition of numertaking, tongue tickling, almost as fresh ous weddings in June. It could always as ours fruits and veggies that will keep be the nice weather as well. you away from the doc. Enjoy all that Our summer gardens carry on the Diablo Valley and Northern Cali these rituals by producing sweet consummer has to offer. I love corn fritfusions of tiny cherry tomatoes and ters, so it is only natural to make zuccucumbers, all gangly on vines, with beans gaining length as we speak. Tiny chini fritters as well with your abundance of this crop. peppers hide at ends of spent blooms, Lesley Stiles is a graduate of the soaking up so much summer sun you California Culinary Academy, suscan almost hear the rustle of laughter tainable caterer and school garden as the blossoms fall to reveal plump educator. fruits. Blueberries, strawberries and Contact Lesley at lesleystiles@ raspberries entice, abstractedly hanging off vines in a series of gentle curves, comcast.net, www.lesleystiles.blogspot. com and visit her new website: www. as we force ourselves not to pick, not lesleystilesfoods.com. just yet.
June 2013
A School Garden By Jaki Jones held a couple of small fundraisers which When Jennifer Vanya saw a plot of helped connect the children and parents land beside the library at Valhalla Elementary two years ago, she knew it could at school to the project,” she said. The first crop planted last fall was be tamed into an organic garden. After harvested in February and included a vaspeaking to the president of the parent riety of lettuces, winter greens and root club and Principal Marji Calbeck about the promise of an edible garden on cam- vegetables. The vegetables were prepared by parent volunteers and samples were pus, Vanya was immediately given the served to the entire school. “We made a green light and the Valhalla Edible Garsalad from different lettuces and greens, den project was born. In the fall of 2012, the Valhalla Dads we sautéed chard, arugula, cabbage, and beet greens with garlic, and one of the Network built the first three raised garmoms made the most extraordinary root den beds. The beds were filled with soil on Community Service Day last Septem- vegetable latkes. It was such a huge team effort by the parents,” continued Vanya. ber and seeds were planted in October, May 1 was the official groundbreakleading to an abundant winter harvest. ing ceremony, revealing the irrigation This spring two additional beds, a three system, picket fence (to keep the deer sisters mound and an irrigation system were added bringing in a little more than away), and two additional growing ar350 square feet of working garden space. eas primed and ready for a summer harvest. An added benefit of the garden is “My primary role in the garden has the educational component; teachers can mainly been as a project coordinator, incorporate garden activities into their but at times I have hauled dirt, planted curriculum next fall. seeds, taught classes that stopped by to ask what is growing, and walked around Vanya recommends that anyone interested in starting a school garden take the school handing out vegetables to the advantage of the resources available such kids. I have no formal training as a garas the Contra Costa County Master Garden coordinator, just my own life expedeners and the California Department of rience and love of gardening,” admitted Education. Social media and parent inVanya. volvement is essential, and she is grateful Once the project had gained moto parent Stephen Hoeft for his dedicamentum, a bounty of generosity from tion as the co-creator of the garden projthe community followed. “The most ect. amazing part of the project has been “The garden is there to teach the the range of donations: everything from children and give them a calm space to lumber for the garden beds and fence, connect with nature, and that is surely a plants, soil, and volunteer labor, to a benefit to any school,” Vanya adds. grant from a private donor. We also
Zuchinni and Herb Fritters
Ingredients:
2 pounds of assorted squash, grated 2 garlic cloves, peeled and chopped 3 tablespoons of chopped fresh basil 3 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
2 eggs, beaten 1 cup dried bread crumbs 1 bunch chopped scallions Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
Directions:
Mix all of the above together and season with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a frying pan and drop the batter by 2 tablespoons at a time. Cook until golden brown and flip. Drain on paper towels and serve immediately. Serves 4.
The official groundbreaking ceremony of the Valhalla Edible Garden project took place on May 1. Jennifer Vanya, Principal Marji Calbeck, Mayor Michael Harris, teachers and community members were among those in attendance.
www.ourcommunityfocus.com
June 2013
Page 27
Oakmont Memorial Park on Memorial Day
Oakmont Memorial Park Cemetery in Lafayette with the landmark white towering spires of its “Inspiration Chapel” visible throughout the valley has long been known for the beauty of its hilltop location, magnificent landscape and spectacular views of Mount Diablo and the Briones Regional Preserve.
But Oakmont Memorial Park is more than a beautiful memorial garden, it is an integral part of the community and recognizes its responsibility to serve. Open to the public 365 days a year, the Park sponsors a series of events throughout the year which are fun, free and open to the public. Its most popular event is the Memorial
OAKMONT MEMORIAL PARK
Is Honoring Veterans with a 25% Discount on
Day Celebration honoring our American heroes. The free event featured interesting guest speakers, a helicopter flyover tribute, free barbeque and one of the most impressive American flag displays in Northern California. This moving display is a favorite of local Veterans and nonveteran families alike. Made up of actual Veteran Memorial burial flags and over four thousand individual Veteran marker
flags it represents just a portion of the thousands of America Veterans interred over the years at Oakmont Memorial Park. Families and the entire community were encouraged to experience the real and original significance of the day. For information about Oakmont Memorial or to schedule a no-obligation tour of the Park contact: Thomas Corbett, Community Service Representative at (925) 216-4785 or tcoak8@gmail.com.
pre-need purchases for traditional or cremation placement. (excludes opening/closing)
Through June 30, 2013 Contact: Thomas Corbett/Veteran Specialist (925) 216-4785 or tcoak8@gmail.com Your DD-214 could be worth thousands!
Photos by SusanWoodPhotography.com
County Connection Youth Pass The school year is almost over and summer is just around the corner. Following a decades-old tradition, The County Connection is offering a deeply discounted Summer Youth bus pass to help students get around during the summer. The 20-Ride Summer Youth Pass sells for $15 and is available now for youths age 6-18. Summer Youth passes are accepted on all County Connection fixed-route buses. County
Connection allows more than one person to use a single bus pass, making it easier for families with multiple children, or for those planning group outings. The pass is valid from June 9 through September 30, and is available through the mail, at most sales outlets, or online. For more information about this program, call Customer Service center 6767500 or visit www. countyconnection. com.
IT’S A SELLER’S AND BUYER’S MARKET You need a Professional to get the best price for your home! You need a Professional to navigate your purchase in this market! I’m here for you and your Pets!
Suzanne Looker ‘Your Pet Friendly Realtor’ 925.917.9070 suzanne.looker@pacunion.com DRE#01440575
Community Focus 4.75”w x 5.375” h
Page 28
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Fire Safety for Summer By Jim Bonato, Pleasant Hill CERT Program Manager matches out of reach from our curious I’m going to take a detour from children; install smoke detectors on every earthquake preparedness and discuss fire floor of the house and in each sleeping area; prevention. This past winter, rainfall in central Contra Costa County has been 75% don’t overload wall sockets; and keep 5 lb. of the yearly average, and the fire season has fire extinguishers charged and handy in the kitchen and the garage. started early. If you do experience a home fire, get Homes close to open spaces are vulnerable to the sparks and embers of a grass- the family outside quickly and call 911. A home fire can easily double for each minute fire. Three words to remember: remove, it burns. Once outside, NEVER go back reduce, and replace. Remove weeds, dead grass, shrubs, and trees from the yards. Re- inside for a pet or something you want to save. Almost everyone who attempts this duce the density of plants and ladder fuels (i.e., those fuels extending from the ground is overcome by toxic fumes or acrid smoke and becomes a victim. to tree canopies). Replace hazardous vegetation with less-flammable, irrigated plants Did you know that most home fires start in the kitchen? Yes, from stovetop or other low-growing ground covers. grease fires. Many of us baby boomers have Many of us enlist our gas-powered lawn mowers into weed-cutting duty. Keep been taught from early on to use baking in mind that a spark thrown when a mower soda to extinguish this type of fire. “Where in the heck is the baking soda?” will be a blade hits a grass-hidden rock is enough likely harried thought. An easier and safer to start a fire, so be sure to remove rocks way to extinguish this type of fire is to slide before mowing. a cookie sheet over the top of the pan – it’s Several easy and basic things we can handy, it’s fast, and you don’t have to rumdo to reduce fire risk inside the house are: mage through the spice cabinet to find it. keep ignition sources like lighters and
June 2013
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 St. (925) 370-8770
6/9 - Pancake Breakfast 8am – 11am. This delicious breakfast includes pancakes or toast, sausage, eggs, orange juice and coffee. Everyone is welcome. Cost: $3.50 for adults/$2 for children 10 and under. Handmade crafts, perfect for gifts will be on sale during the breakfast. 6/30 - Clarinet Fusion Performance. Doors open at 1:30pm. Performance is 2pm – 3:15pm followed by a light buffet. Clarinet fusion is a unique ensemble of all the clarinets used in bands and orchestras, and some rarely used. They will play a mix of classical, concert band favorites, popular and patriotic music for our enjoyment. Cost: $5 members/$8 non-members. Call Center for tickets: (925) 370-8770. No tickets sold at door due to buffet. Bingo! - Ongoing 1-3:45pm. Thursday afternoons. Come play Bingo and bring a friend! We begin selling cards at 12pm. 7/12 & 7/19 - AARP Driver Safety Training Program (2 consecutive Fridays). 11am – 3:30pm (with a 30 minute break). This 8-hour classroom course is designed for motorists over the age of 50 to help refine existing skills and develop safe, defensive driving techniques. Cost: $12 for AARP members/$14 non-members. Check with your insurance company for discounts given upon course completion. Classes fill up, call to register early: (925) 370-8770. Give checks payable to “AARP” to instructor on first day of class. Hula for Exercise (NEW CLASS) Mondays - 5:30-6:30pm and Thursdays 10:30-11:30am. Basic hand, foot and body movements of the hula set to Hawaiian music will be taught. You will learn a hula song per session. Wear comfortable clothing and bring water. Rosemarie Ramos, Hula instructor, is from Hawaii and has over 20 years of dancing hula, performing, teaching Hawaiian crafts and sharing her aloha in the community. Classes held at Center. Fee $40 (8 weeks). Call Center to register: (925) 370-8770.
Pleasant Hill Senior Activities 233 Gregory Lane (925) 798-8788
Healthy Lifestyle Series 1-2pm (Wednesdays). A 5-week series presented by the Pleasant Hill Wellness Center provides all the information you need to feel better from now on. Remaining classes are: June 5 - Nutritional Supplements & Natural Healing; June 12 - Making Healthy Menu Choices While Dining Out; June 19 - Staying Active; June 26 - The Importance of Core Strength, Balance & Flexibility. Only $5 for the Series. Held in the Senior Center classroom. Space is limited. Call 925-798-8788 to pre-register. 6/11 - 6/25 - Basic Computer & You 10-11:30am (Tuesdays). This is a hands-on experience where you will learn basic computer functions such as how to turn on the computer, log on, navigate with a mouse and find software applications. Instructor: Walter Sanchez. In the PH Senior Center computer lab. Cost: $45/$40 for members.
Limit one coupon per customer. Not valid with other offers.Restrictions apply. Valid and redeemable only when presented at a participating location. The UPS Store centers are independently owned and operated. © 2010 Mail Boxes Etc., Inc. Exp. 5/31/2013
6/13 - 7/25 – Yoga & Wellness 11am-12pm (Thursdays). Deep breathing is beneficial to the cardiovascular and immune system. Bring a yoga mat & light blanket. Wear loose clothing. Instructor: Maxine Davis. In the PH Senior Center classrooms. Cost: $75/$69 for members or $13 drop-in per class. *No class on 7/4. 6/24 - Art of Impressionism Workshop 2-4pm. Create artwork in the style of Claude Monet, founder of French impressionist painting. Additional $10 art supply fee collected in class. Instructor: Jaleh Alavi & Bahram Khamjani. Held at the Senior Center arts & crafts room. Cost: $30/$26 for members.
www.ourcommunityfocus.com
June 2013
Page 29
Home Plate Heroes It’s a scorching hot Saturday afternoon at Pleasant Oaks Park in Pleasant Hill. Volunteer umpires Scott Allen and Chris Baker, dusty with infield clay and marking chalk, are seated at a picnic table beside the ball fields where each man, just minutes earlier, notched his seventieth game of the 2013 Pleasant Hill Baseball and Softball Association (PHBA) season. During the short respite before duty calls them to stand behind home plate for yet another two-hour youth contest, Allen and Baker, chief adversaries in a diabolical challenge called “Iron Ump,” relish a bit of camaraderie, along with a simple hot dog and soda – their only compensation for a full day’s work. What exactly is driving these guys to such an extreme feat of volunteerism? Well, it’s partly that PHBA’s new Chief Umpire promised a trophy and a hearty ham sandwich (essentially bragging rights for a year) to the Iron Ump, the one who completes the most assignments. However, for both Allen and Baker, the motivation for their community service runs deeper.
By Brockton Brennan
Volunteer Umpires Chris Baker (left) and Scott Allen are locked in a battle for PHBA’s Iron Ump trophy – and a hearty ham sandwich. Photo Credit: Brockton Brennan
“I’m making amends for a misspent youth!” chides Allen. “Seriously,” the father of three PHBA players continues, “I enjoy giving back to this community that supported me when I was young, and where I’ve lived my whole life. Some people may think umpiring is a ‘thankless job.’ But, I don’t see it that way. The kids [players] really appreciate it. And occasionally they’ll even give me a compliment. I do this for the kids.” Baker, who previously served as Chief
Umpire, believes that PHBA’s brand of adult-volunteering not only provides a structured environment for the kids, but that it’s also good for The Game. “PHBA is an all-volunteer league,” explains Baker, who has also coached his two children. “Coaches, scorekeepers, grounds crew, cashiers at the snack shack – and umpires – are all in this together. The collaboration among neighbors and friends seems to breed tolerance, and so the kids are witnessing a good lesson.”
That’s not to say things are always peachy-keen. Recalls Baker, “Ok, so this one time, I rung up my neighbor’s son on a called third strike. Afterward, I mentioned that I’d like to come by to use the pool. My neighbor said maybe I should wait a few hours, because the little guy was still steamed!” So, how did these two men with such high ideals, get so caught up in a quest for a ham sandwich? “On Opening Day, Chris calls me and says that he did four games, and who’s going to catch him?” Allen says between big bites of his hot dog. “I told him, ‘See you at the finish line.’” Three months later, with the season nearing an end, Allen and Baker are tied at seventy games apiece. And neither expects the Chief to cut that sandwich down the middle. Slurping the last of their sodas, the two competitors rise from the picnic table and give each other a good-natured fist bump before walking back to their respective fields, whereupon each simultaneously dons his mask and calls out, “Play Ball!”
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THE PURCHASE OF 4 OR MORE TIRES
Discount applies to regular retail pricing. Minimum purchase of $150 before tax required. Not valid with any other offers. Must present coupon at time of estimate. One offer per vehicle. No cash value. Additional
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www.ourcommunityfocus.com
June 2013
IN FOCUS•IN FOCUS•IN FOCUS•IN FOCUS•IN FOCUS•IN FOCUS
Who is Maureen Ingalls? Maureen Ingalls and her husband nior Real Estate Specialist) and QSC (Quality Service Certified). As of this Fred have lived in Martinez since issue of the Community Focus, Mau1979. Son Mike is in the mechanireen has sold 465 Martinez homes and cal engineering field and daughter countless others throughout Contra Kathleen is in physical therapy (Dr. Costa County. Maureen is your advoKat owns her own clinic in Kalispell, cate when you buy or sell real estate in Montana). Martinez. Today, Maureen enjoys a satisfy Throughout Maureen’s career, ing career in real estate. Her familiarshe continually updates her clients ity with Martinez and Contra Costa about the value of their real estate inCounty has benefited many clients. vestment. In turn, her clients know She has been a full-time professional to trust her knowledge concerning real estate agent specializing in Marthe status of current real estate valtinez properties since 1985. Her outues. They know she can accurately standing performance has placed her on top of the competition, earning her advise them on matters of home improvements, the timing of real estate numerous awards and recognition. purchases and Her greatest property resale. reward comes Maureen from customer will be the first satisfaction to tell you that and a job well ACCORD she is most done. pleased to re In addiport increasing real estate values to tion to being a member of the Martinez Chamber of Commerce, Maureen her clients, but she also knows the dynamics of real estate and how values keeps up with the constantly changcan change! Knowing the local real ing field of real estate by attending estate market is one of Maureen’s perseminars that offer advanced study in fected skills! listing, selling, investment, taxes and Maureen Ingalls, CRS, GRI, more. She is a broker and has earned SRES, QSC License #00894262 BROthe designations of GRI (Graduate of KER Associate with RE/MAX Accord the Real Estate Institute), CRS (Certi(925) 370-1680 fied Residential Specialist), SRES (Se-
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Page 31
CWP Intern Making Strides John Vanni Jr. (JJ) is making an impact in the College Works Painting (CWP) internship in the Norcal Division. In only a few months he has exceeded his peers and been noticed for entrepreneurial ideas by the CWP President. This internship has been offered for twenty years now, and JJ is the first to expand his business to commercial companies by painting the Nor Cal Courts warehouse in Martinez and working with real estate agencies.
Showrooms also in Santa Clara & Milbrae
JJ attends San Francisco State University and is a hitting instructor at Mike Murphy Baseball. JJ’s goal is to take his experiences and customer service from baseball and apply it to his business. Reference letters from clients demonstrate to future firms and employers how hard he has worked for client satisfaction. JJ is excited to ensure you are happy with the result of a freshly painted house or business this summer. JJ will work with you to get the best price for the job now, while saving you money from weather damage in the future. Consultations for home and business owners are absolutely free with JJ and College Works Painting. If your house is in need of fresh exterior paint, please call College Works Painting at (888) 450-9675 and tell them you would like John Vanni Jr. to
manage the job. Or, you can email him directly at jjvanni2@gmail.com. If you mention this article, JJ will give you an extra 2.5% discount in addition to the other discounts that come with the College Works Painting program. More importantly, you will have JJ’s personal attention and he will ensure quality work from CWP painters at an excellent value.
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Page 32
Read My Mind © Book Reviews by Michael G. Harris, OD
Hail to the Chief Every year, dozens of books are written about the presidents of the United States. Here are some recent bestsellers that caught my eye. “Politics make strange bedfellows.” That’s the first thought that came to mind when I read Ike and Dick: Portrait of a Strange Political Marriage by Jeffrey Frank. These two fellows were definitely “the odd couple of politics.” If you’re old enough, you’ll remember Dwight D. Eisenhower as a great solider and hero of World War II. He was also the overwhelming choice for president in 1952 and 1956 with Dick Nixon as his running mate. I thought Eisenhower’s famous “I LIKE IKE” campaign buttons were very clever. They were so popular that my Dad made me “I LIKE MIKE” campaign buttons when I ran for eighth-grade class president. (I won, so they must have worked!) In contrast to Eisenhower as a widely loved and respected fatherly president, Nixon will always be remembered as “Tricky Dick,” a title he earned early in his political career. During his run for the US Senate, he hinted that his opponent was a communist even though he knew she wasn’t. He continued his “dirty tricks” as Eisenhower’s running mate and later during his presidency. In spite of the differences in their character, personality, and age - Eisenhower was old enough to be Nixon’s father - Ike and Dick established a relationship that lasted until Eisenhower’s death in 1969. The many trials, tribulations, and triumphs of their “political marriage” make Ike and Dick thought-provoking reading for anyone interested in politics or US history. At a 1962 dinner honoring Nobel Prize laureates, President John F. Kennedy said, “I think this is the most extraordinary collection of talent, of human knowledge, that has ever been gathered together at the White House, with the possible exception of when Thomas Jefferson dined alone.” This legendary
quote is our introduction to Thomas Jefferson: The Art of Power, Pulitzer Prize winning historian John Meacham’s recent bestseller. Is it possible that one man wrote the Declaration of Independence, founded the University of Virginia, and more than doubled the size of our country through the Louisiana Purchase? Jefferson is even more remarkable because he was also a keen scientist, a noted inventor, a renowned architect, and the consummate statesman. But there were also fascinating contradictions in this Renaissance man. How could someone who proclaimed that “…all men are created equal...” still own slaves? Meacham’s book gives us incredible insight into the genius of our third President. (If you want to learn about other fascinating presidents, read Meacham’s bestseller American Lion: Andrew Jackson in the White House and David McCullough’s Truman.) You can skip Bill O’Reilly and Martin Dugard’s books Killing Kennedy: The End of Camelot and Killing Lincoln: The Shocking Assassination that Changed America Forever. I found nothing new or enlightening in either of these books. Perhaps the fact that I lived through the Kennedy assassination explains the lack of insight I got from Killing Kennedy. That doesn’t explain the lack of anything new in Killing Lincoln, even though my wife claims I lived through that assassination as well. While these books may be factually accurate, they seem more like scandal rags than American history. If you enjoyed the movie Lincoln or want to really learn about the man most historians consider our greatest president, read Doris Kearns Goodwin’s bestseller Team of Rivals. Her portrayal of Lincoln during the Civil War and how he brought his rivals together to lead the country through the most perilous time in our history provides an amazing understanding of this great man’s heart and soul. Valuable lessons for today’s leaders!
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What Goes Around, Comes Around Rogers Ranch and the Importance of Historic Preservation in Pleasant Hill In 1868, when Patrick and Mary Rodgers moved to a wheat farm on 149 acres in what is now Pleasant Hill, they were one of nine families living and farming in this area. Wheat was the crop of choice, but soon changed to grapes, nuts and fruit. The ground was fertile and access to Port Costa made shipping possible. The Rodgers Ranch site was eventually subdivided and converted to an almond farm. This lifestyle lasted until after World War II, when children of farmers sold their property to developers and living in suburbs became the good life. Housing was cheap and the air was clean. Neighborhoods were built in a year, grocery stores replaced farmers’ markets, fast food chains replaced home cooked meals, automobiles replaced walking and riding horses, pharmaceuticals replaced herbal and home remedies, and consumerism replaced
By Denise Koroslev husband John Mattheson have turned the recycling and living off the land. open space on the hill into a large teaching When the Rodgers Ranch property was in garden and demonstrate techniques such danger of being sold to a developer over as conditioning the soil and bio-dynamic 22 years ago, a group from the Pleasant farming. Hill Historical Society preserved the site, Several years ago, the wheat barn was giving the community a peak at architecture common during the 1800’s and school dismantled and stored in containers on the property, but efforts to rebuild the barn are children a chance to experience life on a now in the works. Plans have been drawn 19th century farm. to show how the original barn used to look The Rodgers Ranch restoration project, now on two acres, has evolved into from the outside -- in fact, the site is on the the Rodgers Ranch Heritage Center. With National Register of Historic Places and help from the Pleasant Hill Recreation and cannot be altered -- but the interior will be updated so the building can be used yearPark District (the property’s current ownround. ers), the City of Pleasant Hill and commu Once housed in the old School House nity members, Friends of Rodgers Ranch on Oak Park Blvd and Pleasant Hill Rd., (FORR) restored the farmhouse, which is now used for school programs and classes. the Pleasant Hill Historical Society had to It is also home to the Northern California Unit of the Herb Society of America, which maintains an herb garden and hosts the annual “Herb Day” at the ranch. As interest in gardening increases, places to learn about gardening are needed. Master Gardener Marian Woodard and
move out when the building was condemned. Items have been stored at Rodgers Ranch, City Hall, and storage areas, and we invite volunteers to help with sorting and categorizing materials. Classes offered at the Rodgers Ranch Heritage Center remind us to appreciate and nurture the land around us. Active members are needed to help with heritage programs, site maintenance, historic preservation, construction, and fundraising. With your help, we can preserve the history of Pleasant Hill and provide the community with a look into the past. Please contact us at RodgersRanch@yahoo.com to see how you can help, or check our website www.RodgersRanch.org and become a member.
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June 2013
2012 - 2013 MDEA Academy Awards
The first annual Mt. Diablo Unified School District employees’ Academy Awards dinner took place at Centre Concord on May 17. Over 200 people were in attendance, including such notables as Tom Torlakson, Mark DeSaulnier, and Susan Bonilla. The event was sponsored by the Mt. Diablo Education Association (MDEA) and is the inspiration of MDEA President Guy Moore, who wanted to create an occasion that publicly celebrates and showcases the great work being done by the teachers and employees of the school district. Nomination forms were sent out to district employees two months prior to the event and reviewed by a nomination committee. Those sending the nominations had to describe in 250 words or less
why they felt the nominee was worthy of the award. The committee received 108 nominations from 37 different sites. The committee chose three finalists for each category. “The finalists are simply a handful of those worthy of recognition. We all do wonderful things for our students. The hope is that the Academy Awards will become a yearly event at which we can recognize more and more of the teachers, classified employees, administrators and volunteers who make MDUSD an awesome place to work and attend school,” said Laurel Burns, MDEA Vice President. Twelve individuals were honored with awards in the following categories: Outstanding Volunteer, Gerry Barrera; Outstanding Leadership, Gwendy LongyearHayden, Delta View; Outstanding Clas-
On May 23 the Pleasant Hill Recreation and Park District Board acknowledged the year long dedication and efforts of the members of the 2012/13 Pleasant Hill Teen Council. This year’s energetic group consisted of 25 students from a variety of schools in the area, including College Park and De La Salle High Schools and Valley View, Sequoia and Pleasant Hill Middle Schools. These students were selected through an interview process to work closely with the Pleasant Hill Recreation & Park District’s Teen Program. The students worked hard all school-year to plan, promote and implement programs, events and services for Pleasant Hill teens. Not only did they serve in an advisory capacity, they were one of the go-to groups to volunteer at over fifteen events in Pleasant Hill this year. The Art Jazz & Wine Festival, Trunk or Treat, Rodgers Ranch’s Expo and Community Service Day were just some of the
events teens helped set up, work and break down. Teen council members also volunteered their time twice this year at the Senior Center doing “Get to Know Your Gadget,” a workshop that assists seniors with questions about different technology gadgets. This year’s council had some extraordinary experiences, including being an instrumental part in the grand opening of the new Teen Center in Pleasant Hill. They worked hard to bring innovative ideas for programs and events to their peers, including the new Teen Center Concert Series featuring local teen bands. Interviews for the 2013/14 Teen Council were held in May. Applications are available each March for the following school year, and all students, middle school through high school, are encouraged to apply. For more information on the Teen Council, call Teen Supervisor Katrina Hunn at (925) 691-5645.
sified at a Site, Sandy Davis, Mt. Diablo High School; Outstanding Administrator, Liz Kim, Strandwood Elementary; Most Inspirational, Heidi Brown, Mt. Diablo Elementary; Creative Curriculum, Liz Manglesdorf, Sequoia Middle; Community Involvement, Jennifer Risken, Sequoia Elementary; Outstanding Classified Not at a Site, Debbie Hermens; Lifetime Achievement, Dr. Verna Ogden, Sequoia Elementary and Northgate; Student Advocacy, Charlie Litten, Foothill Middle; Teach-
ers of the Year, Shannon Prichard, Monte Gardens Elementary and Carissa Sugden, El Monte Elementary. Dinner was catered by Sunrise catering and served by the students of Mt. Diablo High School’s Serendipity program. Students from various schools also showcased their vocal, musical and artistic talents, and all funds raised for the awards event beyond those covering expenses will be used to benefit the arts programs within the school district.
Busy Year for Teen Council Strandwood Staff Pictured LtoR: Heidi Beck, “Outstanding Administrator” Liz Kim, Mary Schuster, Amber McCaffrey, Kathy Hoffmann and Tracy Bartlett. Photo Credit: Laurel Burns
MEF Announces Grants
Martinez Education Foundation (MEF) is proud to announce that it recently awarded grants in the amount of $104,054 to teachers and staff throughout the Martinez Unified School District. Schools receiving grants include Alhambra High School ($36,474), Martinez Junior High School ($15,298), Vicente/Briones High School ($5,197), Morello Park Elementary ($9,371), Las Juntas Elementary ($23,101), John Swett Elementary ($3,501) and John Muir Elementary ($11,112). Additional information about the grants can be found at MEF’s website at www.martinezedfoundation.com. MEF thanks and appreciates all of its donors and volunteers for their great support throughout the year and for enabling MEF to make our schools better!
FPHE Thanks Its Supporters
Foundation for Pleasant Hill Education (FPHE) is greatly appreciative of all their 2013 Annual Campaign donors. The donors listed at www.fphe.org are invaluable for allowing FPHE to enhance educational programs within the eleven schools in the College Park HS feeder pattern. FPHE specifically thanks the following businesses for their financial and in-kind contributions to FPHE during 2012-2013. Their generosity supports our schools and strengthens our community. AIG Bank of America Bank of the West CCC Library, Pleasant Hill Chevron Humankind Chipotle, Crescent Dr. City of Pleasant Hill Coco Swirl, Crescent Dr. Coldstone Creamery Community Focus Creative Marketing Arts Dallimonti's Restaurant Daphne’s Greek Café Déjà Vu, A Unique Boutique DeVino’s Pizza & Pasta Familiar Images FOG5 Band Grocery Outlet of Pleasant Hill
Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital Hitchcock Realty Hollis Banks, Face Painter Irvin Deutscher Family YMCA Jack’s Restaurant & Bar Kohl’s LUMBERYARD, The Band Macaroni Kid Magoo's Grill of Pleasant Hill Mary Jane’s Kindergarten & Preschool Massoni Day Care Mazza Grill, Crescent Dr. MJ Studios Art & Music Pasta Pomodoro, Crescent Dr. Paul Mitchell the School Pete’s Coffee & Tea, Crescent Dr. Pleasant Hill Chamber of Commerce Pleasant Hill Coin and Jewelry Pleasant Hill Rec and Park
Proclaim Promotions Ray Andrews, Magician RE/MAX Today, Don & Norma Flaskerud Republic Services Robert Half International Rotaract and Interact Members Safeway, CC Blvd. & Patterson Blvd. Shaadzee Bakery & Bistro Sinful Bliss, Crescent Dr. Slow Hand BBQ State Farm Insurance, Matt Rinn SW Contractors Sweet Tomatoes, Crescent Dr. Togo’s, Crescent Dr. Trader Joe’s, Concord UPS Store, Crescent Dr. Wence’s Restaurant Zio Fraedo’s Restaurant
FPHE, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, works in partnership with the local community to enhance the quality of education and provide enrichment opportunities for students in Pleasant Hill public schools. To donate visit www.fphe.org or send a check to FPHE, P.O. Box 23851, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523.
June 2013
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Shrimp Posture A Damaging Alignment
Get 5 “Second Opinions” At One Time
By Tonya Marie Amos, Aspire Pilates out. And although you may I refer to “shrimp poshear your mom’s voice in ture” as the damaging body your head telling you to sit alignment in which our tail up straight, this nearly peris tucked underneath us petual alignment eventually and we’re rounded forward becomes our set posture, like a giant “C.” Our spine which wreaks havoc on our is happiest when its three spine and joints. natural curves are honored Technically referred (neck, upper back & lower to as posterior pelvic tilt and kyphosis, back), and our core and other postural shrimp posture does not benefit from muscles are able to do their support the natural muscular balance and joint jobs. Unfortunately, many of us are stability that comes along with a percongealed into the unhealthy shape of fect postural plumb line against grava chair, whether we are sitting down or ity. Instead, it over-taxes our ligaments, walking around town. affects the discs, aggravates nerves, and In the United States, we begin our causes contractions in muscles that shrimp posture at a young age, by sitare forced to overwork. This can lead ting all day in school at a desk. As to pain and injury of the back, neck, adults, whether we are working a desk shoulders, hips, knees and beyond. job, driving a car, or relaxing on the Fortunately, we can combat this couch, we spend much of our day with posture. Build your core; find the right our hips tucked underneath us, torprop to support you behind the mid/ so rounded forward, and head jutted low back while sitting; escape your chair every hour; and stretch areas that get tight, especially the upper back, hip flexors (front of the hip), and hamstrings. SUMMER INTENSIVES: Do a quick check right now. Are Pilates for Athletes • Pilates for Dancers Modern Dance you resembling shrimp scampi? ReCore Strength to take your claim your humanity and give yourself game to the next level. a good stretch. Tonya Marie Amos is a fully certified Pilates instructor with over 1000 hours of training. For more information, contact please call (925) 680-4400 or go to www.AspirePilatesCenter.com.
By Judson Brandeis, MD Urology and Diablo Valley HIPPA laws, incompatiOncology have developed ble electronic medical records, a multi-specialty treatment and busy schedules someplanning approach for urotimes make it difficult for logic cancers like prostate, physicians to work as a team bladder and kidney. We bring on patient care. Despite cell cancer specialists from difphones, text paging, e-mail ferent disciplines together to and other modes of modern review and discuss individual communication, collaborapatient medical conditions. Our integrattion in health care seems to be getting ed group allows access to high-level, colmore and more challenging. However, laborative cancer care, including clinical coordinated medical communication is trials and cutting edge technology. After precisely what is required to successfully reviewing the patient’s medical history, manage patients with a cancer diagnosis. we consider all possible treatment options Caring for cancer patients requires and develop a recommended treatment treatment and diagnostics from doctors of different specialties. Surgeons perform plan. The patient is then invited to join the conference and ask questions. As a biopsies and surgical removal of canteam and at no additional cost, we work cer. Pathologists look at tissue samples with the patient to develop the most apto determine if cancer is present, and if propriate treatment plan. This is the only so, what type and how aggressive it is. multi-specialty Urology Tumor Board in Radiologist read imaging studies like CT the Bay Area that includes the patient in scans, MRIs and PET scans to look for the conversation. abnormalities that might be cancerous. If you are interested in being conMedical oncologists determine the type sidered for our monthly Multispecialty of cancer and how far it has spread, then Cancer Consultation, please contact the create a treatment plan, infusing chemoprogram coordinator, Leslie Wolfe at therapy if necessary. Radiation oncologists administer radiation to shrink or kill (925) 771-2622. Dr. Brandeis is a Board Certified the cancer cells. Urologist with Pacific Urology, with It is challenging for all of these speoffices in Walnut Creek, Concord, San cialists to simultaneously communicate Ramon Brentwood, Livermore and about a patient and next to impossible to Antioch. To contact Pacific Urology, call have the patient present and participate 925-609-7220 or visit www.PacificUrolduring this communication. I am pleased to announce that Pacific ogy.com. PAID ADVERTORIAL
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June 2013
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Pleasant Hill 4th of July
The 4th of July is only a few weeks away and the Pleasant Hill 4th of July Commission is working hard to ensure an entertaining day of celebration for 2013. The theme this year is, We the People – An American Melting Pot. Schedule of Events for Thursday, July 4th, 2013 • 7:50am – 100-yard dash for kids 7 and under • 8am – 9th Annual Firecracker 5K Fun Run! Save money and sign up online! Encourage family and friends to come out early and participate. All registration net proceeds support Pleasant Hill schools. 9:30am - Parade Enjoy the hometown 4th of July parade. It gets better every year! The Grand Marshal for the 2013 parade is Jim Alkire. Jim was the Pleasant Hill city manager from 1970 -1988 and he and his wife Margie have lived in Pleasant Hill for over 40 years. Jim is an Emeritus member of the Pleasant Hill Community Foundation, a past president of Pleasant Hill Rotary Club, and
was on the original 4th of July Commission. 10:30am – 1:30pm - Party in the Park After the parade walk over to Pleasant Hill Park. Back Forty Texas BBQ will have food and beverages for sale, games and activities for the kids, music by Jinx Jones and the Buzz Tones to enjoy, and the watermelon-eating contest! New this year for the kids – Zorbs! 6pm – gates open at College Park High 9:20pm (approx) – Fireworks The Fireworks show gets better each year! Slow Hand BBQ will return to provide food and beverages for sale. Cold Stone Creamery will also be on site to provide shaved ice, fried ice cream, and funnel cakes for sale! Local favorite, Cover2Cover will entertain the crowd again this year. Arrive early to set up your spot. Bring a blanket and jacket just in case. Visit us on Facebook: PleasantHill-4th-of-July-Commission. View our schedule of events online at www. phjuly4.com. Want to volunteer? Questions? Contact Allen Vinson at 9382373.
Blue Devils Family Day On Saturday, June 15 the Blue Devils Family Day Preview will take place at Diablo Valley College. The program begins at 7pm and features the 15-time Drum Corps International World Champions Blue Devils Drum & Bugle Corps. Also included in the program are the Blue Devils B and Blue Devils C Drum & Bugle Corps. A special feature is the combined Brass/Percussion Ensembles. Ticket box office opens at 4pm and gates open at 5:30pm. General admission tickets are $10.00 and kids under 8 are free. Advance tickets can be purchased at www.bluedevils. org or by calling (925) 689-2918, ext. 0. For more information contact Gail Schultz at: (925) 689-2918 ext. 3007.
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Mosquito Season
With springtime came the seasonal kick off of sports like baseball, softball and spring soccer. Ball fields are once again teeming with players and fans from day until night. But as the ball parks come to life with competitors and spectators, they come to life with mosquitoes as well. And this year the mosquitoes are off to an early start. With this health risk in mind, the Contra Costa Mosquito & Vector Control District recommends any players or spectators attending practices or games within two hours of sunset (before or after) should wear repellent to deter mosquitoes that can make anyone of any age ill. Since 2005, 39 county residents are known to have contracted West Nile virus and two have died. However, researchers tell us the vast majority of
people who contract West Nile virus do not receive a doctor’s diagnosis, so the true number of West Nile virus patients was not known until 2012. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention published statistics suggests up to 1,902 Contra Costa County residents have actually been infected with West Nile virus since the first known cases in 2005, but, for a variety of reasons, they did not get tested for the disease. Remember to dump or drain any amount of standing water because if there are fewer places for mosquitoes to lay their eggs, there will be fewer mosquitoes in Contra Costa County, and that makes nightly ball games and other activities not only more fun, but more healthy as well. For more information, visit the Contra Costa Mosquito & Vector Control District website, www.contracostamosquito.com.
Meals on Wheels Needs Your Help
Two hundred fewer Contra Costa County homebound elders will receive the daily nourishment they need from Meals on Wheels deliveries starting this year. Additionally, for the first time, the Meals on Wheels program has waiting lists of 70 or more homebound elders each day who need Meals on Wheels but can’t be served. Decreased funding and community donations are causing Meals on Wheels to significantly decrease the number of available meals and perhaps even reduce the number of daily delivery routes. Over 60% of Meals on Wheels Program funding comes from the charitable contributions by individual donors, foundation grants and
from the Meals on Wheels Program participants themselves. Community contributions from individuals and charitable foundations are the largest single source of support for Meals on Wheels in Contra Costa County and subsidize virtually all of the 365,000 deliveries to nutritionally at-risk homebound elders each year. For information on how you can help, contact Paul Kraintz at: (925) 335-3358 or email: Paul.Kraintz@ hsd.cccounty.us. Donations to Meals on Wheels can be sent to Meals on Wheels of Contra Costa, PO Box 3195, Martinez, 94553 or made via the website: www.mealsonwheelsofcontracosta.org.
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Contra Costa Interfaith Housing - The Business Advisory Board of Contra Costa Interfaith Housing is hosting a free Career Track Expo on Wednesday, June 26, from 10am - 2pm at the Concord Hilton. Our goal is to connect jobseekers of all levels with local hiring managers for present or future employment opportunities. Bring your resume, interview and network. For more information contact Lynden Tripp at lynden@ccinterfaithhousing.org or call: 925-9442244 Clayton Theatre - Comedians Monique Marvez and Clayton’s own Kyle Fitzgerald are performing a fundraiser for the Clayton Theatre Company on June 14 and 15 at Endeavor Hall in Clayton. Monique Marvez, the Latina writerperformer, has a signature brand of humor captured in her very funny Showtime Special “Not Skinny; Not Blonde,” which debuted in March. Kyle Fitzgerald graduated from Clayton Valley High School and aspired to a career in the NFL. Instead of tackling large sweaty men, his foray into radio sales led him to be featured on “The Monique and the Man Show,” a job as an Internet sports commentator, and stand-up comedian. For more information visit claytontheatrecompany.com or call: 925-222-9106. 40 Years at Oak Park - Oak Park Christian Center will be honoring Pastor Bill and Lynette Mathews for 40 years of faithful ministry on June 9 at 9am and 11:55am (identical services), with a receiving line from 10:20-10:55am. Under the Mathews’ Pastorate, Oak Park has grown from a congregation of 50 to one of over 500, all while the Mathews raised 3 kids, including one with extra special needs. Now with two daughters married and five grandchildren, this Cal Berkley grad and his wife, a former elementary school teacher, are frequently asked, “How did you do it all?” Their quick, humble reply is, “With God’s enabling grace.” 4TH Annual Bike the Bridges - On Sunday, June 9, at the Historic Martinez Waterfront. Hosted by Special Olympics Northern California, this is an excellent opportunity for the community to support and fundraise for local Northern California Special Olympics athletes while bicycling the scenic 25, 65 or 100 mile ride through the local countryside and over the Carquinez and Benicia bridges. Riders and non-riders can enjoy lunch provided by Outback and a beer garden hosted by various breweries. Registration opens at 7am and the event runs until 4pm. To learn more or sign up to participate, visit BiketheBridgesso.com. Law Enforcement Torch Run - On June 25 from 7am to noon, cheer on your local law enforcement heroes as they carry the torch for Special
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Announcements
Olympics during a run from city to city-- Brentwood to Pleasant Hill; Danville to Pleasant Hill; Pleasant Hill to Martinez to Benicia--culminating in Davis for the Special Olympics Summer Games.
College Park’s 50th Reunion - Class of 1963, it’s time for your 50th reunion! The celebration will take place at the Pacheco Community Center on Saturday, August 17, from 6pm to 10pm and catered by Outback Steakhouse. Cost is $50/ single and $85/couple. Mail checks to: Falcon Foundation, c/o 3129 Sonoma Valley Road, Fairfield, CA 94534. Deadline: July 15, 2013. For more information, email Jerry Pollard at: jerrypollard@yahoo.com.
1410 Locust Street, Walnut Creek. Sponsors are Diablo Valley Oncology, Pacific Urology, and Pyramid Alehouse. “Pints for Prostates” is a grassroots campaign that uses the universal language of beer to reach men with an important health message about their prostate health. Founded by a prostate cancer survivor who was diagnosed at the age of 48, this non-profit
Vintage Fashion Show and Luncheon - On Saturday, June 22, a small group of local women will be hosting a vintage fashion show and luncheon with 100% of the proceeds donated to Central County Homeless Outreach. The luncheon will have a menu and formal setting right out of the 50’s. Guests are encouraged to wear 50’s and 60’s elegance…think Audrey Hepburn, hats and gloves and leave those poodle skirts and pedal pushers home! Cindy Vorte at Alley Cats is providing many of the vintage garments in downtown Martinez. Eddie Toganon is donating music. Tickets are $25.00/person. For reservations or additional information call (925) 228-2233 or email Gay Gerlack at: ggerlack@aol. com. To learn more about the Central County Homeless Outreach, visit: http://www.homelessoutreach.net/. Gregory Taboloff Performance - Gregory Taboloff performs fantasies from world-famous operas on Sunday, June 9, at 2:30pm at the Lafayette Library Community Hall, 3491 Mount Diablo Blvd. The concert features Beethoven’s “Tempest” Sonata, Liszt’s Paraphrase of Verdi’s “Rigoletto” and Transcription of Wagner’s “Tristan and Isolde,” plus Taboloff’s own fantasies on Bizet’s “Carmen” and Strauss’ “Fledermaus.” Wine and cheese will be served. Admission is $35. Call (925) 609-5918 for available seating. Rodgers Ranch Round Up for ages 7-12 - “Farm to Table” on June 25: Learn what’s involved in growing and preparing meals in the 1800’s. Plant a garden, learn about composting, grind wheat, churn butter and make (and eat) pancakes. June 27: “Celebrating our Grand Ole Flag.” See how the national flag has changed over the last 200+ years. Make a flag, enjoy patriot games, stories, and crafts, and make ice cream. Sessions are from 9am-2pm. $40 per day, $5 sibling discount. Register for classes by calling 925-387-0158. Pints for Prostates - This fundraiser will be held on June 13 from 6-8pm at Pyramid Alehouse,
ABC Singers
Get Involved in Your Community … ABS Singers- ABC stands for “Any Body Can” Patriotic & Military Songs Program - Come join our sing-along at convalescent and assisted-living homes. To participate, just come when your schedule permits. Call only if you need details; otherwise, just show up at 6pm! Dates and Places June 4 – Legacy Nursing & Rehab, 1790 Muir Rd, Mtz. June 5 – Chateau III, 175 Cleaveland Rd., Pleasant Hill June 11 – Stonebrook, 4367 Concord Blvd., Concord June 12 – Bayberry Convalescent, 1800 Adobe St., Concord June 18 – Chateau Poets Corner, 540 Patterson Blvd., PH June 19 – San Miguel Villa, 1050 San Miguel Rd., Concord June 25 – Veterans Hospital, 150 Muir Rd., Martinez July 3 – Chateau II, then I at 2700 Pleasant Hill Rd., PH
Maxine Chan • (925) 969-9693 maxineabcteam@aol.com 531 Main Street • Martinez, CA 94553
June 2013
campaign raises awareness among men about the need for regular health screenings and PSA testing. With a $25 donation, you will receive the ‘Pints Package’ which includes a custom beer glass, beer, heavy hors d’oeuvres, and raffle tickets. Space is limited so RSVP at 925-677-5041 or at www.DiabloValleyOncology.md/contact.
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925.934.5545
www.thecarpetbutler.biz
LEADING EDGE
925-827-1200
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PEST MANAGEMENT, INC
Termite & Pest Control
(925)689-2222 • (800)471-5555 Lic. #PR6202
1936 Linda Drive Pleasant Hill CA 94523
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www.LeadingEdgePM.com
ENGINEERING & CONSTRUCTION
FREE
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• 2nd Floor & Room Additions • Foundation / Retaining Wall & Concrete Drive Way Repairs • Design / Permit & Build Services
Mark Ellinwood, Owner • PO Box 23774 • Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
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Where to Go & What to Do for Elder Care Flaskerud - RE/MAX Today Grocery Outlet Hagin’s Automotive Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital Hire My Husband Hitchcock Realty Home Detailers Housekeeping Housecleaning by Marli Irvin Deutscher Family YMCA Jennifer L. Martin D.D.S. JJ Vanni, College Works Painting Kobe Japan Law Office of Daniel L. DuRee Les Schwab Tires, Martinez
925.253.1000
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Linda J. Weihofen, Reverse Mortage Lindsay Wildlife Museum Main Street Martinez Matthew C. Rinn, State Farm Insurance Martinez Chamber of Commerce Martinez Furniture Co. Sofas & More Massage Envy Maureen Ingalls - RE/MAX Accord Meineke Car Care Center Moulding Company Myra Nissen, Certified Homeopath New You Dance Center Nor-Cal T-Shirts Oakmont Memorial Park Pacific Coast Farmers’ Market
Paddock Bowl Pleasant Hill Rec & Park Samuels Construction Senior Helpers Shell Western States Credit Union Splash Swim School Suzanne Looker, Pacific Union International Tod Gomes Photography UPS Store – Virginia Hills UPS Store- Arnold Drive USS Potomac Village Center For The Arts Waters Moving and Storage Youth Homes Thrift Shop Zachary’s Chicago Pizza
Summer Cleaning Special
6/30/13
Page 40
www.ourcommunityfocus.com
June 2013