May 2017 Community Focus

COMMUNITY

FOCUS

MAY 2017 Reaching Over 50,000 Homes & Businesses

ourcommunityfocus.com

IN THIS ISSUE: • FARMERS’ MARKET SEASON • PILLARS OF THE COMMUNITY • MEMORIAL DAY OBSERVANCES

PLEASANT HILL • CONCORD • MARTINEZ • LAFAYETTE • WALNUT CREEK

Enjoying the Journey Reflection on the Past Year

BY DR. LOUISA ASSEO

For a sun-loving girl like me, my adventures usually lead me to the beach and the water. However, a few weeks back, while visiting dear friends in Oregon, we took a trek up to Mount Bachelor in search of a much colder adventure. How did my friends convince me to brave the snow? A sled dog ride! And what an exhilarating experience it was.

The sled dogs were amazing animals. They are Alaskan Huskies, a specially bred group of dogs that are playfully called “the most expensive pure-bred mutts.” Not to be confused with the well-known Siberian Husky breed, these dogs are a blend of northern breeds built for pulling, speed, and

endurance. They are about 50 pounds in size and can vary in coloration, hair coat length, and eye color. What they all share as a breed is that they are sweet, high-energy dogs that love to run.

When the empty sled approached, all 50 dogs in sight started bouncing, barking, and running in circles as if to say, “Pick me! Pick me!” Ten dogs were chosen to lead our adventure. Once these darlings were secured to the sled, I could feel their excitement heighten.

To add to our experience, we got the extra pleasure of having our musher be the father of the famous Rachel Scdoris – the first legally blind woman to complete the Iditarod. We climbed into our sled, the brake was released, and we were off. The companions left behind stopped barking and changed their chorus to a howling of disappointment as we sped away.

Racing through the clean, white snow surrounded by snow-topped evergreens was one of the most peaceful experiences I have had – despite the view of 10 bounding dog butts in front of us. At that moment, it was clear that these dogs – although touring people over the same course day after day – were happiest when they were running, coasting downhill, and pulling uphill with all their might – basking in the enjoyment of the journey.

I began reflecting on my first year of creating and operating Oasis Veterinary Hospital. Like these dogs, this is what I was built to do. The ups and downs, the coasting, and the struggles of the past year have been rewarding and fulfilling as well as challenging and tiresome. But just like these sled dogs seeing the empty sled come into view, I too find excitement at what each new

day holds in store. It has been quite a pleasure to serve the community and its furry, scaly, and sometimes feathered friends during this past year. It has been amazing to connect with old friends and meet so many new friends, and I am looking forward to the future! Now, where is that sled?

Dr. Louisa Asseo, owner of Oasis Veterinary Hospital, can be reached at (925) 954 – 8087, 6635 Alhambra Ave, Suite 100, Martinez, or visit oasisveterinaryhospital. com.

Oasis Veterinary Hospital proudly sponsors the

PET ADOPTION CONNECTION www.ourcommunityfocus.com

SMALL TALK WITH TERI independent & locally owned

by Teri Norbye PUBLISHERS: Becky Coburn Jennifer Neys Elena Hutslar info@ourcommunityfocus.com ADVERTISING: Community Focus Central County Homes info@ourcommunityfocus.com COPY EDITOR: Alison Clary GRAPHIC DESIGN: Trish Heaney

SPORTS: Sport Story Submissions info@ourcommunityfocus.com CONTACT INFORMATION: Community Calendar calendar@ourcommunityfocus.com Content & General Inquiries: info@ourcommunityfocus.com SUBMISSION DEADLINES: All articles must be sumbmitted by the 15th of each month.

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MISSION STATEMENT The Community Focus is a free, independent, monthly publication dedicated to highlighting the vibrancy of the local businesses and residents while strengthening and building connections within our community.

COVER:

It is Farmers’ Market season again.

INSIDE

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Principals’ Corners

Whimsical Fairy Gardens

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&

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The Book of Joy

Farmers’ Market Coupons

to

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19 22

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may 2017 • ourcommunityfocus.com

Meet Wendi Whittles, who lives in Pleasant Hill with Craig, her husband of 18 years, and their two sons, Colton and Connor. Wendy works as a special education assistant providing autism intervention services for young children in the Mt. Diablo School District. She loves it and would recommend the job to anyone. Her favorite way to relax is to hang out with her friends with a glass of wine.

How did you become a special education assistant? I had to take a proficiency exam. There’s a math component, and I don’t do math. So I went online to IXL Math, did 2,000 math practice problems, and I passed!

What’s your morning routine like? It’s crazy! I’m an early-riser and get up at 5:30am.

My husband is already out the door by then. I have half an hour to myself to have my coffee and get my quiet time in the house. Then I get the kids going, take my shower, get ready for work, and make school lunches for my kids.

Biggest pet peeve? Making school lunches. Normally, on Sundays, I’ll call Zachary’s, get a medium pizza, and my kids will have pizza and fruit for lunch throughout the week.

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3

Fireworks Amped

Estate Planning

BY NORMA FLASKERUD

Over the years we have donated a large amount annually to the 4th of July Commission. It all started about 15 years ago when I walked to College Park High School to watch the fireworks. Before I sat down, they went off and were over far too quickly. The next day I approached Don about fund-raising for the fireworks. We decided then to become major donors and have done so for years.

This year we offered to increase our donation from $2000 to an additional $5000 in the form of matching other donations. We can increase the drama and length of the fireworks by up to 50% if we get donations totaling $5000 because matching funds would bring the total up

BY DANIEL DuREE Congratulations!

Your tax return has (hopefully) been filed and you can move on to far more exhilarating activities like finally taking care of (or revisiting) your estate plan.

When starting the estate planning process, what should be your top priorities? Although probate avoidance is often the most talked about goal in the process, incapacity planning and the nomination of guardians if you have minor children are just as important, if not more.

Nominate Guardians for Minor Children in Your Will

By executing a simple will, you can nominate potential guardians for your minor children. Although a judge would need to make the official appointment if anything happened to you, your nomination carries a lot of weight in the decision making process.

Incapacity Planning

In California, if you are alive but incapacitated and have not appointed an agent to act on your behalf for both health and personal care as well as financial decisions, you will be subject to the court supervised conservatorship process. However, you can opt out of this system by creating an Advance Healthcare Directive for personal and healthcare decisions and a Durable Power of Attorney for financial decisions.

Advance Healthcare Directive

By creating and signing an Advance Healthcare Directive, you can document your healthcare wishes and appoint an

Help us Raise Money for 4th of July to $10,000!

If you are a school teacher, we suggest asking students to donate as a class with pennies, nickels, or whatever they want so they can be a part of the 4th of July celebration. Teaching why we do fireworks on the 4th of July would be a learning experience. We get tons of visitors and want to make it especially grand for all.

We are proud to be American, proud of our country, proud of its heritage, and proud to be residents of the wonderful town of Pleasant Hill.

Please send donations to: Pleasant Hill 4th of July Commmission, PO Box 23272, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523. Make checks payable to 4th of July Commission.

Call The Flaskerud Team for all your real estate needs. Don and Norma: 925338-2980 or DonaldFlaskerud@Remax. net or NormaFlaskerud@Remax.net.

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may 2017 • ourcommunityfocus.com

agent to carry them out in the case where you are incapacitated.

Durable Power of Attorney

The financial corollary to the Advance Healthcare Directive is the Durable Power of Attorney for Finance. With this document, you appoint an agent to carry out enumerated financial actions on your behalf if you are incapacitated.

And Yes, Probate Avoidance Also

Don’t think that I was going to forget about the mortal enemy of all estate planning professionals, the probate process (cue ominous music). While nominating guardians for minor children and planning for potential incapacity are top priorities, avoiding probate is still vital to protecting your assets and ensuring an easy transition for your heirs. By setting up a living trust and transferring assets into it, you can avoid the unnecessary expense and delay of California probate.

In addition to probate avoidance, a living trust can provide more complex distribution schemes than a will, which can provide for mixed families and avoid giving large outright gifts to beneficiaries who may not be ready for such responsibility.

If you have any questions about how you can get the peace of mind that only comes from knowing your family is protected, please call my office for a complimentary consultation.

Daniel L. DuRee is a third generation resident of Contra Costa County and a licensed attorney practicing in Walnut Creek.

He can be reached at (925) 210-1400 or visit www.DuReeLaw.com.

925.210.1400 1535 North Main Street, Suite 240 • Walnut Creek

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TRUSTS • WILLS • PROBATE

Memorial Day Observances Cities Honor Those Who Gave All

Local Memorial Day observances will take place on Monday, May 29, to honor and preserve the memory of those who made the ultimate sacrifice in all wars and conflicts in service of our nation.

Martinez

The Martinez Memorial Day commemoration will begin at 9am at Alhambra Cemetery on Carquinez Scenic Drive. There will be a benediction, placing of the wreath and Sea Cadets posting colors. The ceremonies will resume at Ignacio Plaza (525 Henrietta Street) at 10am with messages from Mayor Rob Schroder and public officials, a keynote speaker, patriotic music, and benediction from Pastor Jim. The ceremonies will conclude with the 21-gun salute by members of American Legion Post 29 and VFW Post 1351.

After the ceremony, American Legion Post 29 will host brunch at the Veterans Memorial Building, 930 Ward Street. The 30-piece Mount Diablo Regional Concert Band will play during the meal. The community is encouraged to attend this and all American Legion activities.

Pleasant Hill

Elected representatives from state, county and local communities are invited to speak at the Contra Costa County Veterans Monument at the corner of Contra Costa Boulevard and Boyd Road at 1pm. The program includes a procession of massed colors of veterans’ organizations in attendance from around the county, a Sea Cadets

Color Guard, and the Military History Preservation Group Firing Party for the traditional 21 gun salute, followed by a playing of Taps. Recorded patriotic music will play throughout the program. A tent and chairs will be in place for your comfort, and refreshments will be served following the observance. The Veterans Remembrance Committee, established in 1924, participates in hospitalized veterans’ causes. They will assist in presenting the program and welcome your attendance.

Walnut Creek

The City of Walnut Creek’s Memorial Day observance will pay tribute to American GIs from the Civil War to present day with a unique program featuring live music and dramatic readings. The free event begins at 10am Monday, May 29, at Civic Park, and concludes with the laying of wreaths at the Veterans Memorial Plaza. The Walnut Creek Concert Band, under the direction of Harvey Benstein, will perform.

The National Cemetery

Honoring Veterans from the Bay Area and Beyond

More than 2,500 people will come to San Francisco’s Presidio and National Cemetery on Monday, May 29, to honor the memory of the men and women who sacrificed their lives while serving their country.

Parade

This year’s parade starts at 10:30am at the Presidio Officers’ Club, 50 Moraga Avenue at Arguello, and ends at the National Cemetery at 1 Lincoln Boulevard at Sheridan. Every year, it starts with the 191st Army Band followed by veterans organizations and distinguished guests. The parade lasts about 30 minutes.

Formal Program

After the parade, at approximately 11am, the formal program begins and features several speakers including both local politicians and veterans.

21-Gun Salute

The official program ends at noon with the 21-Gun Salute. This is conducted by the U.S. Army’s 75th Pacific Division.

Presidio Chapel

The Presidio Chapel, up the hill from the National Cemetery, is open for prayer and meditation from 12:30pm to 2:30pm. The chapel holds quite a bit of history and is only open for a few hours each week. If you see an attendant, make sure to ask if you can step into the lobby to take a look at the colorful mural behind the front desk. It’s one of SF’s masterpieces and is not open for visitors very often.

Tours

Following the program, the National Park Service will offer half-hour tours of the National Cemetery, and the Presidio Chapel will be open for prayer & meditation from 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm.

National Cemetery in the Presidio is a designated National Historic Landmark, dating from the 1846 war with Mexico. More than 35,000 veterans and their dependents are buried there. It has long been a tradition for the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts to decorate each grave in the cemetery with an American flag for Memorial Day.

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A Spin on DIY Whimsical Fairy Gardens

BY REBECCA SEIDENSPINNER

A recent trend has sprouted up in the garden. I want to share with you the most magical outdoor play space my daughter and I created together. This creative little space is called a fairy garden that’s full of magic!

How to make a DIY fairy garden: 1. Pick a container and location to create this magical space.

2. Choose the fairy house structure (a fairy house can be made out of an old broken pot, teacup, or even a birdhouse). We chose a mushroom house.

3. Look around the house for tiny treasures to add to your fairy garden, and make a water source such as a pond.

4. N atural accents like plants, sticks, stones, moss or tree stumps make a great addition to your fairy garden and make it a natural habitat for forest critters that may take up residence there.

5. A dd some twinkle lights or batterypowered candles to add a bit of sparkle in the evening.

6. M ichael’s has an entire aisle dedicated to small, outdoor fairy gardens.

It is spectacular. Don’t forget to bring your coupon. These tiny treasures can add up quickly.

This enchanted play space will encourage hours of make believe play.

It is whimsical and wonderful. With a sprinkle of pixie dust (gold glitter), fairies are sure to fly in from all over the world. Here are a few photos of friends with their fabulous fairy gardens.

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Avery’s fairy garden includes a rabbit named Hopper and a squirrel named Beatrice.

Park District and County Agree Stage Set for New Library and Potential Recreation Fields need to provide additional recreational field space for children and families to participate in healthy outdoor activities.

“With few vacant parcels left in Pleasant Hill, the district is committed to acquire and develop parkland when opportunities present themselves,” said Zac Shess, chairman of the district’s board of directors. “The district is thrilled to add this acreage, and we look forward to working with the community to develop another beautiful recreational facility that serves people of all ages.”

The city and the county can now move forward on an agreement for the transfer of approximately three acres at 1700 Oak Park Boulevard (the vacant property across Monticello Avenue from the current library building) for the new library location.

Supervisor Karen Mitchoff, who represents the area at the county, said she was very appreciative that the district agreed to keep the existing library operational while the new one is under construction.

“Pleasant Hill needs a new library to keep up with increased demand and new technologies,” Mitchoff said. “This is a great example of three public agencies working together to find a solution where everyone wins.”

Concurrent with the city and county discussions, the city can move forward

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with plans for the design and construction of the new library. The next step for the project is for the city to hire an architectural firm to begin the design of the building and landscaping improvements.

The library process will involve extensive community outreach and engagement through workshops and public hearings.

“This is wonderful news for our community. Our residents are going to be delighted with their new library and new recreational fields,” said Pleasant Hill Mayor

POTENTIAL PARK EXPANSION

MONTICELLO AVENUE

The Pleasant Hill Recreation and Park District, Contra Costa County, and the City of Pleasant Hill are pleased to announce that county-owned land in the city can now potentially be used for park and recreation uses and a new city library.

This has been made possible because the district and the county have reached an agreement that will provide land for these potential new uses.

The County Board of Supervisors voted to approve the agreement at their last board meeting on April 18. The Recreation and Park District, which is a special district independent of the City of Pleasant Hill, voted to approve the agreement at its last board meeting on April 13.

The agreement provides an option through the end of 2019 for the Recreation and Park District to purchase a fiveacre site (1750 Oak Park Boulevard) from the county for potential future recreational uses.

The five-acre site is home to the current Pleasant Hill Library and a vacant administration building. The library will continue to operate in its existing location until a new one is available, at which time the Recreation and Park District will transition the site into new recreational space.

The Recreation and Park District believes that this agreement is an important step in addressing a substantial, identified

Michael Harris. “When the residents of Pleasant Hill overwhelmingly supported Measure K in the last election, they clearly indicated that they wanted a new community library and better streets. We intend to fulfill our promises to the voters by investing in these improvements for them and their children.”

You can find more information about the projects at: www.pleasanthillca.org/ library, www.pleasanthillrec.com, www. cccounty.us/Mitchoff.

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City of Pleasant Hill

Mayor’s Message Memorial Day Memories©

Memorial Day is a time to honor those who died serving our country and is an opportunity to remember all who served our country in times of war and peace. It’s significance became abundantly clear when I visited Washington, D.C.’s famous National Mall.

I was awed by the grandeur of the World War II Memorial and its tribute to those who fought in that war, including my father, father-in-law, and uncles.

I was haunted by the anguish on the faces of the GIs on patrol in the Korean War Memorial. I wept openly as I read names on the granite walls of the Vietnam Memorial.

Walking the Mall, I was struck by two overpowering emotions, a great sense of sorrow for the thousands who lost their lives defending our country and a greater sense of pride for the sacrifices made by those who fought to preserve the principles that make our country great.

Three individuals epitomize the sacrifice of those who serve our country. My father was drafted in 1944 when I was barely a year old. He served most of the war in a remote area of India. The conditions were horrible. No real sanitation. Filth everywhere. While he saw no action, he was nonetheless a victim of the war.

When he came home years later, he was a stranger to me, having sacrificed the formative years of my life to serve his country. He died far too young at 56 from multiple myeloma. His doctors thought his exposure to toxins in India caused his disease. Thus, he was a casualty of the war along with those who died at Normandy.

I got to know Larry Block when I met his daughter Dawn 24 years ago.

A child of the Depression, Larry had a hard life in a poor family living in Coney 8

Island. Like many of his generation, Larry dropped out of high school to fight in World War II. He lied about his age and enlisted in the Navy at 17. What Larry didn’t know was that he would be ghastly seasick every day onboard ship.

Larry served on one of the first ships to land at Nagasaki after the atomic bomb was dropped. He died a few years ago from colon cancer, probably triggered by his exposure to radiation at Nagasaki. Like so many others, he, too, gave his life to keep America free.

My mother never served in the military, but she epitomized the sacrifice of those who serve our country in times of war. Like so many women of her generation, she raised her son while her husband served his country. My father and uncles were serving overseas, so to save money, my mother and I moved into a small flat with my grandparents, aunts, and cousin.

Most of what I know about those years has been told to me by my 101 year-old mother. She remembers the hardships they endured to make ends meet. It wasn’t easy, but somehow she did wonders with her ration book!

Keeping a family together while a spouse serves our country remains challenging today.

When Francis Scott Key penned “The Star-Spangled Banner,” he wrote we are “the land of the free and the home of the brave.” I think he got it wrong. We are “the land of the free because we are the home of the brave.”

Please join the Pleasant Hill community at 1pm on Monday, May 29, at the Soldiers’ Monument to honor all who served our country at home or abroard. Thank them and remember them for keeping our great country “the land of the free.”

may 2017 • ourcommunityfocus.com

Michael G. Harris, OD, Mayor of Pleasant Hill

Public Meetings City Council May 1, 15 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane, Council Chambers, 7:30pm. Contact: 671-5229 Civic Action Commission (No Meeting Scheduled for May) City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane, Small Community Room, 6:30pm. Contact: 671-5229 Architectural Review Commission May 4, 18 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane, Small Community Room, 5pm. Contact: 671-5209 Planning Commission May 9, 23 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane, Council Chambers, 6:30pm. Contact: 671-5209 Commission on Aging May 11 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane, Small Community Room, 5pm. Contact: 671-5229 Education Commission May 24 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane, Community Room, 7pm For Confirmation Visit: www.ci.pleasant-hill.ca.us

Chamber Calendar May 5 – PH Chamber Ambassador Meeting 8:30 – 9:30 am, City Hall Community Room, 100 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill May 6 – Pleasant Hill Farmers’ Market Opens (Ribbon Cutting at 10:30am) 9:00am – 1:00pm, Trelany Road Between City Hall and Downtown PH May 11 – Chamber Business Mixer 5:00 – 7:00pm, Pleasant Hill Dental, 1894 Contra Costa Blvd., Pleasant Hill May 18 – PH Chamber Board Meeting 8:00 – 9:30am, WiseGirl Ristorante, 1932 Oak Park Blvd, Pleasant Hill May 22 – Government Affair Committee 4:30 – 6:00pm, Back Forty Texas BBQ, 100 Coggins Dr., Pleasant Hill May 23 – China Trip 2018 – Informational Meeting 5:30 – 7:00pm, Pleasant Hill Chamber Office, 91 Gregory Lane, Suite 11, Pleasant Hill (location may change, contact Chamber) May 29 – Memorial Day Chamber Office Closed May 31 – Business Runway 2017: The Rising “Gig Economy” 12:00 – 1:30pm (Registration & Networking begins at 11:45am), JFK University, 100 Ellinwood Way, Pleasant Hill 680 Business Networking - 2nd & 4th Wednesdays & Thursdays, 8:00 – 9:00am, JFK University, 100 Ellinwood Way, PH OFF THE GRID Food Trucks – Wednesdays, 5 – 9pm, Trelany Road, PH Pleasant Hill Farmers’ Market – Saturdays*, May 6th - November 11th, 9:00am1:00pm, Trelany Road, PH *Saturday, October 7th; Closed for Annual Art, Wine & Music Festival Sponsorship Opportunities for 2017** Wine at the Plaza Summer Concerts, Thursdays, 06/01, 07/06, 08/03 & 09/07 Blues & Brews, Friday, 07/14 & Sat. 07/15 Art, Wine & Music Festival, Sat. 10/07 & Sun. 10/08 **To become a sponsor, please contact the Chamber Office for an application

City of Pleasant Hill

Pleasant Hill City News Registration Open for Firecracker 5K

It’s time to register for the Pleasant Hill July 4th Firecracker 5K Run and Walk school fundraiser. Celebrating its 13th year, the run has raised over $120,000 to benefit Pleasant Hill schools, and with your support it continues to grow each year. So, gather up the family, dress in your best patriotic gear, and join the fun while supporting local schools. During the registration process you will be asked to designate a Pleasant Hill school to receive the net proceeds from your registration fees. Entry fee is $30 for early bird entries before June 30, and $35 after June 30 and on race day. Discounts are also available for families and groups of three or more, and race t-shirts are not guaranteed after June 19. Register early for the best price at https:// raceroster.com/events/2017/12380/firecracker-5k.

Pleasant Hill Farmers’ Market Returns for the Season

Pacific Coast Farmers’ Market Association (PCFMA) is excited to announce the grand opening of the Pleasant Hill Farmers’ Market on Saturday, May 6. The market will be held every Saturday from 9am until 1pm at Trelany Rd. and Gregory Lane near City Hall. The opening day ceremonies will be a fun-filled celebration to kick off the start of a brand new season. “We’re very excited about the return of the Pleasant Hill Farmers’ Market,” said Nikki Fernandes, market manager. “The market will have lots of vendors offering all kinds of produce, hot foods, kids’ activities, and music – and all in a fantastic location next to the lawn and pond area at City Hall.”

On opening day, a ribbon cutting ceremony will be held at 10:30am. There will be live music, face painting, balloon sculptures, a storytime reading for children, seed planting and lots more. There are grassy areas next to the market for picnics and listening to music, and a variety of local farmers and food producers will be there throughout the season to provide fresh seasonal produce and hand-crafted foods to enjoy. Bring family and friends and support your local farmers’ market, the epicenter for local fresh produce. The market will remain open until October 28.

Senior Spring Cleanup Day in Pleasant Hill

The Civic Action Commission, in partnership with the Commission on Aging and the Pleasant Hill Senior Center, is holding its first annual Senior Spring Cleanup Day on Sunday, May 7. The event is intended to benefit seniors in Pleasant Hill who may need some help with clearing weeds, trimming shrubs, and other light landscaping. The Commission is also in need of volunteers to participate in this intergenerational event. Volunteers who pre-register are also invited to a free pancake breakfast, hosted by the Pleasant Hill Senior Center, at 8:30am on the morning of the cleanup. Work on the projects is expected to begin at 10am and be completed by 1pm. For volunteers who do not pre-register, a $5 donation will be charged for breakfast at the door. Register now as a volunteer or signup for assistance (for seniors aged 65 and older, residing in Pleasant Hill) at www.pleasanthillca.org/seniorcleanup. Seniors who are interested and individuals who want to volunteer can contact Martin Nelis at (925) 671-5229 or mnelis@pleasanthillca.org for more information.

Pleasant Hill Business Owners

The City of Pleasant Hill Commission on Aging is in the process of developing and publishing a directory of Pleasant Hill businesses that offer discounts to seniors.

This directory of businesses with senior discount programs will be rolled out June 2017 and published on the ShopPleasantHill.org website. The directory will be available in print at a variety of venues and provided to local media sources for maximum exposure. If your business currently offers or is considering offering a discount to seniors, the commission would like to include your business and the type

City News Continued of discount offered in this directory. The directory will be refreshed biannually, so discounts should remain in effect at least through Summer 2019. The online version will include links to your business website, allowing access to current information. Complete and submit an online data sheet at www.pleasanthillca.org/seniordiscountbusiness (or request a form from Danielle Habr at dhabr@pleasanthillca.org) by May 19, 2017. If you have any questions, please contact Danielle at (925) 671-5221.

Citywide Garage Sale “Don’t Trash It – Sell It!”

Organized by Allied Waste Services and the Civic Action Commission, the Citywide Garage Sale on Saturday, June 10, gives Pleasant Hill residents the opportunity to hold their garage sales on the same weekend and get free promotion from the city and Allied Waste. Residents can register their sale at www.pleasanthillgaragesale. com. The organizers will publicize the streets (but not house numbers) that are hosting a sale that weekend. For more information, call Anne Baker at (925) 671-5806.

Draft EIR for proposed CarMax Dealership

As the Lead Agency under the California Environmental Quality Act, the City of Pleasant Hill has completed a Draft Environmental Impact Report (Draft EIR) for the CarMax Automobile Dealer, and the Draft EIR is currently available for public review and comment.

The project site is located at 65 and 77 Chilpancingo Parkway and includes demolition of the existing unoccupied former Kmart building and an existing operational McDonald’s restaurant and construction of up to approximately 45,289 square feet of structures/facilities for a CarMax automobile dealership on approximately 9.95 acres, constructed in two phases beginning in late 2017.

The Draft EIR has identified potential project issues, including: aesthetics, air quality/greenhouse gas emissions, geology and soil, hazards and hazardous materials, hydrology and water quality, noise, tribal cultural resources, among other issues.

After mitigation, the project would not have any significant unavoidable or cumulatively considerable impacts. Copies of the Draft EIR and all documents referenced in the EIR are available for public review at the Planning Division in the City of Pleasant Hill City Hall offices and the city’s website: www.ci.pleasant-hill.ca.us. The 45-day public review period for the Draft EIR ends on May 25. For further information, contact Troy Fujimoto, project planner, at (925) 671-5224 or tfujimoto@pleasanthillca.org.

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9

City of Martinez

Mayor’s Message

Do you ever wonder why that street was paved and not this one, or why this got done and not that? How does a city choose which projects to complete and which ones have to wait?

Most city councils like Martinez’ develop a stragetic plan. This vehicle sets a path for the future, prioritizes services and allocates resources. It informs the community about city services, needs, priorities and the capacity of the organization. A strategic plan provides a framework for budgetary decisions and helps focus our limited finances and staff.

Martinez started this process with a study session on January 25. We discussed the various council subcommittees and their responsibilities and then reviewed the draft five-year financial forcast and current vision, mission statement and goals.

At the second study session, held on February 25, the vision, mission and goal statements were amended and finalized.

Here are the final versions: Vision Statement: Martinez is an inclusive, family-oriented, safe community with small town waterfront character and diverse neighborhoods, complemented by plentiful parks and open space. Martinez has an historic downtown with a legacy of culture and the arts that fosters a vibrant and sustainable

economy and strives for a well maintained infrastructure and a responsive, high performing government.

Mission Statement: The City of Martinez will provide efficient and sustainable, responsive, high performing public services and well maintained public facilities that enhance the safety and livability of the community and support fiscal stability and a healthy local economy through business development.

Goal Categories: Sustainable Fiscal Health; Infrastructure Improvements; Safe Community; Economic Health; High Performing Government; Enhanced Quality of Life.

I am sure that these three statements sound very esoteric and not very realistic. They did to me until I really thought about what they are saying.

These three statements lay the foundation for the city council and city staff to build a budget, set priorities, allocate resources, and provide municipal services to its residents. From these statements, we developed the following top action items for the next two-year budget:

Complete the Marina Master Plan; Implement Measure D (1/2 cent sales tax for roads and streets) ; Develop and implement a Community and Economic Development Department; Continue to implement Homeless Initiative; Adopt

Rob Schroder, Mayor of Martinez

the Project Stabiliztion Agreement (PSA); Complete and adopt the Martinez Master Plan; Add a crime analyst position to the police department; Continue the Alhambra Hills acquisition negotiations; Enhance the Martinez community image.

These are all Tier 1 items and considered the highest priorities of the city council. There are dozens of other action items on the city council “wish list” which have been placed in either Tier 2 or Tier

3. Unfortunately, there are not enough resources to complete everthing we would like to complete.

The city council will be reviewing the action items on all tiers several times each year and may make changes in priorities as we move forward and/or additional resources become available.

If you would like to review these documents in more detail, you can find them on the city’s website: www.cityofmartinez.org.

Special Recognition

Deputy City Clerk Mercy Cabral retired on April 28 after working for the city for more than 30 years. Mayor Rob Schroder, along with the city council, presented her with a Retirement Proclamation honoring her for her service with the City of Martinez from 1983 to 2017. “It’s been an honor and a privilege to serve the city and its residents of Martinez. I leave at the right time, (when) we have a wonderful, committed council, and they had the wisdom to select an excellent city manager, Brad Kilger. There is so much to be grateful for, but all I can say is I take you all with me in my heart,” said Cabral at the April 16 council meeting. Melissa Woodin has been hired as her replacement.

Committee Selected

The Council voted unanimously to approve Stephen Fretz, Peter Kappelhof, Satinder Malhi, and Marta Van Loan to serve on the Measure D Citizen’s Oversight Committee. Along with the city treasurer, these members will be charged with reviewing the city’s expenditures of Measure D, the “Martinez Road Improvement and Maintenance Measure,” to ensure the funds are spent in compliance with the requirements of the measure adopted by Martinez voters on November 8, 2016. Both Mayor Schroder and City Treasurer Robinson screened all applications, 13 in total, and those above were selected.

Public Meetings Best Mechanic

10

may 2017 • ourcommunityfocus.com

City Council Meeting May 3, 17 City Hall, 525 Henrietta Street, 6-9pm. Contact: 372-3500 Zoning Administrator Meeting May 3, 17 City Hall, 525 Henrietta Street, 4-6pm. Contact: 372-3500 Design Review Meeting May 10, 24 City Hall, 525 Henrietta Street, 4-6pm. Contact: 372-3500 Planning Commission Meeting May 9, 23 City Hall, 525 Henrietta Street, 7-11pm. Contact: 372-3500 For Confirmation Visit: www.cityofmartinez.org

City of Martinez

Temporary Dog Park Site

On April 5, the city council adopted a resolution designating the John Muir Amphitheater as a temporary dog park site for a period of up to three years. The construction of a dog park in Martinez has been a topic of discussion since the early 2000s. The Park Recreation Marina and Cultural Commission (PRMCC) established a Dog Park Subcommittee in 2012 to evaluate city owned sites. Recently, however, a group of supporters began advocating to the city council for a dog park in Martinez. Over the past twelve months, the city has held a series of meetings and workshops to identify a good location.

On January 16, staff held a meeting with some of the dog park enthusiasts to review the schematic plans and estimate for the berthers’ (aka launchers’) or Albatross’ parking lot. Due to the high cost of constructing even a temporary dog park at the berthers’ site and the opposition of state lands, staff looked for other options in the Marina/Waterfront Park area that might be able to accommodate the facility, one of which was the John Muir Amphitheater. This site would require fewer improvements than the berthers’ site.

A site visit to the amphitheater on January 28 was well attended by the dog park group. The site drains well and has perimeter fencing, shade trees, benches, water, adequate surfacing, adequate space, and nearby parking. Although the amphitheater is currently booked for nine events this summer, staff indicated the dog park would be closed during those events, and notice of closure dates would be posted at the amphitheater.

Improvements required would include replacing broken fencing as well as adding gates, drinking fountains, waste bag stations and minor paving at dog entrance areas.

The estimated cost for the dog park improvements is $35,000. In addition, an existing fence along the amphitheater ramp must be replaced and permanent drinking fountains will be installed at an estimated cost of $15,000.

Based on input from the State Lands Commission staff, it is extremely unlikely a dog park would be approved on city marina property. Council approved a temporary dog park at the amphitheater with a three-year time limit. This should provide adequate time for a permanent site to be identified and grant funding pursued.

Professional Baseball Team Looking at Martinez

At the April 5 city council meeting, Mayor Schroder reported Kevin Riley, owner of the Vallejo Admirals, who had previously made a request to bring a professional team to Martinez and utilize the newly renovated Waterfront Park ball fields, had contacted him.

Mayor Schroder told Mr. Riley that his next step was to go to the council and inform them of the process to move forward. Mayor Schroder said, “We all decided that we wanted one of the ball fields in the cloverleaf to be designed with the possibility of having a professional team there. It is the intent of the league to expand their teams by the summer of 2018.” The professional baseball team topic will be placed on the agenda as a presentation in the future.

The Martinez Open Space and Park Protection initiative was recently launched. The initiative will increase protections for all open space and parkland in Martinez by requiring approval by Martinez voters for changes to more intensive development on these lands.

Currently the city council has the ability to convert these lands to other uses. The initiative says these lands can still be converted to more intensive development uses like housing or commercial, but the initiative will require that any such change be approved

by Martinez voters.

“This initiative looks to the future. Our open space and parklands will be under more and more pressure from population increases in and around Martinez. The initiative gives us all a voice in the future of these treasured places,” states Mark Thomson, one of

the proponents of the initiative.

Mark Thomson, Kerry Kilmer, and Tim Platt signed the Notice of Intention for the initiative. It is being supported for signature gathering by the local group Martinez Open Space and Park Protection Committee. The Sierra Club and Thousand Friends of Martinez have endorsed the initiative.

The initiative petition is now ready for signature by Martinez voters. Supporters are collecting approximately 3500 signatures to put the initiative on the ballot. Then a public vote will be held to turn the initiative into law.

Kay Cox, speaking for Thousand Friends of Martinez said, “This initiative gives all of us a say in the future of our open space and parks. That makes sense, because open space and parks affect everyone’s quality of life. We ask the citizens of Martinez to sign the initiative to get it on the ballot.”

There are also two provisions included in the initiative. To read the provisions and to learn more about signing the initiative petition and how to help or make a donation, visit the Martinez Open Space and Park Protection Committee website at: www.martinezopenspace.org. The committee can also be contacted on their Facebook page, Martinez Open Space, and via e-mail at martinezopenspace@outlook.com.

New Open Air Market

On May 2, head to the 700 & 800 blocks of Main Street in Martinez for the first Open Air Market. This event will be held on the 2nd Sunday of each month through October, from 10am-2pm. The Open Air Market will join the Farmers’ Market and feature local businesses and non-profit organizations as well as vendors selling vintage wares, antiques, and arts & crafts.

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City News Continued

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City of Walnut Creek

Mayor’s Message

With the arrival of spring, we hope you take time to visit our open space and parks. We have more trails to explore than any other city in the state. Within just a few minutes (maybe a little longer for some of us), one can leave the hustle and bustle of the city and be immersed in nature. Enjoy the flowers, the views, and the wildlife. Don’t forget to have your cell phone charged when you start because there are so many beautiful pictures you will want to take.

Also, consider visiting Old Borges Ranch and take a step back in time.

The ranch was established in 1899 by Francisco Borges and is a great example of a late 19th and early 20th century cattle ranch. You can see many of the original buildings and structures of the ranch, along with many farm animals cared for by the Pleasant Hill 4-H. This is a wonderful activity for families and anyone interested in history. Educational programs are conducted at the ranch for school-aged children and civic groups, and reservations can be made through our supervising ranger, Nancy Dollard.

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Rich Carlston, Mayor of Walnut Creek

an urban feel, please enjoy our parks and recreational facilities. If you are like me, you may enjoy a walk around our downtown, which is a terrific way to relax, view our public art, and feel the vitality of our city. Finally, don’t overlook our downtown art, history and nature walks. You will find them quite fascinating and educational.

Work to improve the Lesher Center will be commencing soon. The project involves creating a larger space in front of the Lesher Center and improving access.

The first phase of the project is set to begin soon. This phase entails creating a portal directly from the parking structure into the courtyard at the center as well as covering over the courtyard. This will allow people to enter the theater from the parking structure through the large portal without being exposed to the elements.

Turning to another important community program, the Walnut Creek Police have launched Project Lifesaver, designed

to assist residents who are caring for loved ones with Alzheimer’s, dementia, autism, or other cognitive condition that might cause them to wander away from caregivers. Citizens who meet eligibility requirements can be fitted with a band that will allow them to be tracked should they become lost or missing. There is a cost to participate in the program, but it is limited to the cost of purchasing the equipment for the enrollee. Through this program, it is hoped that the safety of those suffering cognitive conditions will be improved.

Finally, the city council will be reviewing steps the city will take in regard to the recreational use of marijuana. We are engaged in community outreach. The community survey closed on April 30, but please make your thoughts known so that the council can have a clear picture of the desires of the community.

Again, enjoy the weather and all that Walnut Creek has to offer.

Public Meetings Design Review Meeting May 3, 17 Council Chambers, 1666 North Main Street, 7pm. Contact: 943-5819 City Council Meeting May 2,16 Council Chambers, 1666 North Main Street, 6pm. Contact: 943-5819 Planning Commission Meeting May 11, 25 Council Chambers, 1666 North Main Street, 7pm. Contact: 943-5819 General Contractor Lic#652185

For Confirmation Visit: www.walnut-creek.org

City of Walnut Creek

Walnut Creek City News

Project Lifesaver

In April, the Walnut Creek Police Department announced their involvement in Project Lifesaver. The Project Lifesaver program will be offered to Walnut Creek residents who are caring for loved ones with Alzheimer’s, dementia, autism, or other cognitive condition that makes them likely to wander away from caregivers. Ninetyfive percent of Project Lifesaver participants who go missing are located in less than 30 minutes.

Citizens in the Walnut Creek community who meet eligibility requirements can be fitted with a waterproof bracelet or ankle band that would allow WCPD to track them should they become lost. Their department is equipped with locating devices that utilize radio frequency waves to locate the transmitters that the program clients are issued. The bracelets must be worn on the enrolled citizen’s wrist or ankle 24/7.

The cost to participate in the program is $300 the first year and $25 each subsequent year. There is a limited number of partial to full sponsorships available on an as needed basis if financial hardship exists. The cost to participate solely goes to purchase equipment for the enrollee; no funding goes to Project Lifesaver or WCPD. If a Project Lifesaver citizen goes missing, the caregiver should contact WCPD immediately. Trained WCPD personnel will respond to the missing person’s last seen location and begin searching for the individual using Project Lifesaver radio frequency tracking equipment. Project Lifesaver is a completely voluntary program.

You must qualify in order to participate. To learn more, or if you have any questions pertaining to the program, visit www.walnutcreekpd.com and click on the Project Lifesaver tab. You can also call 925-943-5898 or email Program Manager Lauren Gehring at Gehring@walnutcreekpd.com.

Whole Foods Supports the WCLF

Make every nickel count when you shop at the new Whole Foods Market on Ygnacio Valley Road. Now through July 2, you’ll have the option of donating your five-cent reusable bag credit to the Walnut Creek Library Foundation. Your nickels will help the library fund the purchase of a new Early Literacy Station for the Ygnacio Valley Library.

Host Families Sought

Walnut Creek has a new partner on the other side of the globe. In December, city council passed a resolution formalizing the city’s partnership connection with Kita City, Japan. Kita City has a long history within the Walnut Creek community. For 17 years, they have participated in a formal student exchange program with the Seven Hills School and for the past two years participated in a summer exchange program with Las Lomas High School.

This summer, the two cities are partnering on a program for teens. Ten Kita City students along with local students, ages 14-18, will participate in a week-long photography workshop through the city’s Center for Community Arts. The program begins on August 14. Kita City is looking for host families for the 10 students. Those interested in hosting a Kita City student should contact Mihoko Malian at mmalian@comcast.net for more details.

Proposition 64 Online Survey How Should the New Marijuana Law Work in Walnut Creek?

The City of Walnut Creek asked for community input through an online, 15-question survey as it develops plans for implementation of Prop 64. The survey ended on April 30, with over 1500 responses.

The approval of Proposition 64 legalized recreational marijuana use by those over 21. In addition, it permits cultivation of up to six plants per private residence

City News Continued and opens the door to commercial marijuana operations such as retail sales, commercial cultivation, and processing facilities. Under Prop 64, local governments have the ability to regulate commercial marijuana operations as well as aspects of personal use. Questions included, “Should the city ban stores that exclusively sell marijuana and related products in the city?” Over 60% responded “no.” Over 70% of respondents responded “yes” to the question: “If you support allowing commercial marijuana cultivation, do you support allowing both indoor and outdoor cultivation?” Over 50% believed city should permit all types of commercial marijuana activities. The city council may discuss the results of this survey as early as the May 16 council meeting.

Old Borges Ranch Day Needs You!

Old Borges Ranch Day is Saturday, May 13, and volunteers ages 14 and up are needed. The day is filled with hands-on activities and games, crafts and livestock demonstrations. Our open space rangers need as many extra hands as they can get to make the day a resounding success. Morning and afternoon shifts are available.

Call Supervising Ranger Nancy Dawson Dollard at 943-5899 ext. 2135 or email her at dollard@walnut-creek.org.

Walnut Creek International Short Film Festival

Come celebrate the 4th anniversary of the Walnut Creek Short Film Festival as it delivers three days of brilliant filmmaking to downtown Walnut Creek. The Short Film Festival brings films less than 30 minutes long, many from across the globe, to Contra Costa audiences at the Century 14 Theater in the heart of downtown Walnut Creek. Each year, we are honored to present amazing stories from many genres, with this year’s selections delivering stunning examples of world-class short films and the best of creative filmmaking. There will be over 100 short films, with international entries from over 20 countries, plus filmmaking events and special screenings. Each day will be multiple blocks of films, with a focus on thrillers, science fiction, documentaries, animation, world cinema, and of course, brilliant comedy shorts. On Friday, opening night, the journey begins with a look at some of the best films from the past four years, including a great selection of short films, plus two world cinema blocks for those that love foreign language films. Check out www. walnutcreekshortfilmfestival.com for the full schedule and more details. Tickets available to purchase online.

Family Art Festival

On May 6, head to Shadelands Art Center to enjoy art making stations, crafts, refreshments, music, demos, and more. They will have a fun passport and map to guide you to all of the activities. Complete it and win a prize! The event is from 10am-2pm, free, and open to the public. Shadelands Art Center is located at 111 N. Wiget Lane in Walnut Creek.

City Council Supports Vote on NUSD

On Tuesday, April 18, the Walnut Creek City Council moved to adopt a resolution that supports a process for consideration and a potential vote by residents within the proposed new Northgate Unified School District. Northgate Community Advocacy for our Public Schools (NCAPS) requested that the city council consider a resolution related to their request. The city has been advised that a petition has been submitted to the Contra Costa County Superintendent of Schools asking for an election to allow the creation of a new unified public school district from the attendance areas of the Northgate area schools currently administered by Mt. Diablo Unified School District (MDUSD). Although the city does not have decision-making authority regarding the proposed creation of a new school district, the resolution expresses the city council’s support for a ballot measure process. ourcommunityfocus.com • may 2017

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REMEMBERING PILLARS An Advocate for Children The Legacy of Joe Ovick

The Contra Costa community is grappling with the unexpected loss of an outstanding citizen, Joseph A. Ovick, who passed away suddenly on March 30, 2017.

An ardent advocate for children, a dedicated ambassador for education, and a passionate believer in protecting our natural history, Joe, and his devotion to making the community a better place for children will truly be missed.

In addition to his devotion to education, he was an active member in the larger community.

Joe earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees at San Jose State University, in his hometown. He went on to later earn his Doctorate Degree in Organizational Leadership from the University of La Verne. Beginning his professional career in education as a substitute teacher, Joe quickly developed an aptitude for working with children, specifically in a special education setting. In Santa Clara County, Joe went on to work as an assistant principal and then as a principal. His hard work paid off as he was appointed director of special education for Santa Clara County. Later, he continued working fervently and took posts with the Contra Costa County Office of Education, serving as the director of special education, the assistant superintendent for student services, the associate superintendent for busi-

ness, and finally as the Contra Costa County Superintendent of Schools, a position from which he retired in 2014 after 18 years. Karen Sakata, his successor as the county superintendent of schools, describes Joe as “down-to-earth, warm and sincere, and he truly cared about public education and kids. And kids always came first. Every decision he made was what was best for the students of Contra Costa County.”

In addition to his devotion to education, he was an active member in the larger community in which he lived and loved. His generous spirit led him to serve in the Pleasant Hill Rotary Club and on the board of the John Muir Land Trust (JMLT), whose executive director, Linus Eukel, wrote, “Joe’s words were always wise and his presence in the room lightened everyone’s mood.

We miss him terribly. Joe was one of those rare people

An ardent advocate for children, a dedicated ambassador for education, and a passionate believer in protecting our natural history, who dedicated his life to making the world around him a better place for all of us.” JMLT’s 2017 Pure Muir Gala is dedicated to Joe’s memory.

County Education Board President Mike Maxwell,

a fellow Rotarian and Joe’s great friend, says, “He was a leader. People followed Joe. He had the mindset to serve the community first – the kids, the parents and his staff.” Mike added, “He and I had a long history, and he was responsible for bringing me to both Rotary and CCCOE. Even after all these weeks, I still cannot believe it.”

Another fellow Rotarian, Matt Rinn, says, “Joe’s

Joe’s positive impact on our community may never be fully known by those who will benefit from his work. positive impact on our community may never be fully known by those who will benefit from his work, but there are numerous individuals who are in a much better spot than if he did not do what he did for their development. Joe was one of the good ones, and his legacy will continue in many aspects.”

Joe’s passion and dedication to students and the community is evident by his life-long work and by the impressions he made on like-minded colleagues.

Joseph Ovick is survived by his wife, Debbie, and two sons, Jon and Bjorn. Contributions in lieu of flowers can be made to John Muir Land Trust, East Bay SPCA, the Bonnie J. Addario Lung Cancer Foundation, or the Kennedy-King Memorial College Scholarship Fund.

Joe Ovick’s Favorite Organizations John Muir Land Trust www.jmlt.org East Bay SPCA www.eastbayspca.org Bonnie J. Addario Lung Cancer Foundation www.lungcancerfoundation.org Kennedy-King Memorial College Scholarship Fund, Ltd. www.kennedyking.org Joe and Debbie Ovick. may 2017 • ourcommunityfocus.com 14

Joe Ovick’s work leaves an impact. Susanwoodphotography.com.

OF OUR COMMUNITY Never Give Up

Darren Dent’s Focus Was Love of Life and Family

“Ball, high. Ball, high. Ball, high.” This was the second batter the 10-year-old pitcher struggled with. He looked to his coach, expecting a frustrated reproach.

What he got was a huge Darren Dent grin and a booming suggestion: “I’d looove to see one in the dirt.”

Coach Darren. In our circle, he was Coach Darren of the PHBA Raptors, a then younger version of the Pleasant Hill Hawks baseball team. He coached basketball and soccer too – anything that any of his four kids was involved in – imbuing in those teams his genuinely positive approach to sports and life. If your family ever had the great fortune to be part of one of Coach Darren’s teams, you were impacted forever.

The 2006 Raptors was the last team Darren coached. His mid-season ALS diagnosis was as good as a death sentence to us all and the disease would move quickly to take control of his body. His ability to move and communicate was visibly affected, but his mind would stay sharp. Most would understandably have called it quits to spend time with their families, take care of business, and rail against the unfairness of it all, but not Coach Darren. He remained a positive role model throughout the remainder of the season, demonstrating that life needs to be lived and every moment seized. Nothing was ever taken too seriously, as laughter was a continual occurrence on and off the field despite the pain he felt.

The rest of the season didn’t have much to do with baseball for the team parents. We soon all donned Never Give Up bracelets in his honor, cheered louder and felt happiness and sadness deeper. It surprised no

one that Coach Darren finished out the season, with a joyful league win, no less. The year ended with a lasting memory for all. The Raptors had the privilege of taking the field along with the Oakland A’s while Coach Darren threw out the first pitch. Our cheering section was the loudest and proudest as well as a bit emotional. Proud of our sons but even prouder of our coach on the mound, wearing the biggest grin, appreciating life’s special moments, knowing none of them is guaranteed.

Darren William Dent, lovingly nicknamed “Hoody,” among others, passed away peacefully on February 26, 2017. He was just 51 years old and had been living with ALS for 11 years. In 2009, he wrote in his blog about the “very lonely decision” he would soon need to make – whether or not to go on a ventilator. “There are so many factors to consider. It is very overwhelming!” he wrote. “I can’t fathom the thought of no longer being part of my kids’ lives or never being able to see them ever again.”

When it came down to it, he chose to extend his life to be around for his children. In a speech from his memorial service, Darren’s sister Ramey said, “From my brother I learned that our kids are the most important

priority, period. Trevor, Ryan, Kyle and Carly, you were always his most important priority.”

Ramey also wrote, “Family and friends are the most important thing in life, and even better when your family are your friends and your friends are your family.

I was lucky enough to have a best friend who also was my brother. Darren was fun, and his lust for life was contagious, even when he couldn’t move a muscle.”

In spite of his long battle, ALS didn’t define Darren.

Instead, his zeal for life, love for his family - children, grandchild, sisters, parents, and dear friends; hard work, grit, and determination; mastery of the BBQ; happiness gleaned from watching a racehorse called Runningforhoody and a great love of sports and betting; honesty described by family as “brutal” and “take-noprisoners”; his openness, wicked sense of humor, and thunderous laugh, rarely withheld, paint his picture.

Darren’s parents, Bill and Parry Dent, were his primary caregivers over the last several years. Parry read aloud a letter she wrote to him: “Your ALS journey has been profound and brought new meaning to the terms life challenge and inner strength. I see you cope with this disease with incredible dignity, courage, grace, bravery, as well as great sorrow, but with amazing humor and laughter, as well... That joy of life that you were born with still comes through, loud and clear! Caring for you is an honor and labor of love, and I couldn’t be more proud or more in awe of you. I’ll love you forever, Hoody---you truly are my son, my hero.”

Donations can be made in Darrren Dent’s memory to to the ALS Association at webgw.alsa.org.

Coach Darren with his Raptors’ baseball team.

Throwing out the first pitch at an A’s game.

Darren with his sisters Kelli, Talli and Ramey.

If your family ever had the great fortune to be part of one of Coach Darren’s teams, you were impacted forever.

ourcommunityfocus.com • may 2017

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CP Principal

Looking Forward to Spring

JOSEPH G. ALVAREZ PRINCIPAL, COLLEGE PARK HIGH SCHOOL

Let me start off by saying how much I am looking forward to spring and baseball season and, more specifically, Oakland Athletics baseball! Being born in Oakland, I am a fond follower of all Oakland sports.

Another fun sport I like is basketball. College Park’s fantastic math teacher Chris Gray spearheaded a “statsketball” team that included seniors Jordan Levy, James Andrews, and Connor Heuerman. Together, they won the American Statistical Association’s inaugural Statsketball Tournament by developing a mathematical model to select teams in the NCAA Basketball Tournament to maximize their points

under the contest’s scoring rules while staying under a given budget. This is a pretty impressive accomplishment.

More information can be found about this contest and their work by reading the Wall Street Journal article at www. wsj.com.

I am genuinely grateful to and proud of all our CPHS students for their commitment and efforts in making our school and community better places each and every day. Last month, I mentioned that two of our students, Thomas McDowell and Maxwell Morehead, had advanced as finalists in the National Merit Scholarship Program, which recognizes and honors academically talented students across the country. I am very pleased to let you know both students were selected to receive a Merit Scholarship of $2500.

Please join me in congratulating these

outstanding scholars.

We have successfully completed our WASC (Western Association of Schools and Colleges) accreditation committee visit. During their threeday stay, the committee visited our classrooms and talked with community members and district and CPHS staff.

What became abundantly clear to the committee is that we have a FANTASTIC school. The committee left many commendations and a few recommendations for follow-up. Over the next six weeks, we will work together on an action plan that will involve community feedback to address the recommendations and help tailor our professional development around follow-up activities. Our focus will be on continuing to make CPHS the best 21st century school it can be.

To leave you with a few fun notes,

the staff nearly beat the students (61-62) in our annual staff vs. student basketball game, where the students’ valiant efforts narrowly pulled out the victory. We had a very successful junior prom, where students were well entertained and truly showed the Falcon spirit. Thank you to leadership teacher Mrs. Thomas and our creative and spirited leadership class for coordinating a great event.

And speaking of creative… there are lots of creative and fun ways to keep informed on College Park campus activities and initiatives. Please check us out on Twitter.com/cphsfalcons, Facebook (College Park High School), our emailed newsletter, Falcon Flyer (created by our fabulous PTSA), College Park TV (CPTV) and the Student Bulletin found at cphs. mdusd.

High School Performances

Another Band Accolade

College Park Theater Presents Noises Off

Don’t miss the craziest comedy College Park Theater has ever put on stage as they perform Noises Off! Final shows are on Wednesday, May 3, through Friday, May 5, at 7pm. Tickets for students are only $5. Come witness the hysterics as the cast plays a group of actors producing a show on its way to Broadway--only to see it all go wrong. Performances are in the multi-use room.

CP Choirs Present Summer of Love Concert

The award-winning College Park Choirs presents a Summer of Love pops concert of ‘60s music at 7pm on May 25 and 26. This groovy pops concert experience features music of the late ‘60s to commemorate the fiftieth anniversary of the hippie revolution in San Francisco. Musical selections include favorite hits by The Beatles, The Mamas & The Papas, The Turtles, Simon & Garfunkel, The Byrds, Crosby, Stills & Nash, and more.

Fresh from their successes at the recent California Music Educators Association (CMEA) choir festival last month in Lafayette, CPHS choir director Bruce Rockwell explains the current high spirits of his choir students: “Everybody worked very hard this year, and our concert choir just garnered a ‘Unanimous Superior’ rating at the CMEA festival – the first time a College Park choir has brought home that distinction since the 1970s! Our spring pops concerts are always such a treat for our students and audiences, the perfect way to end a wonderful year of music making. And this year’s Summer of Love theme is going to make for an especially fun and entertaining night for the Pleasant Hill community.”

The Summer of Love concert will be held in the College Park High School MultiUse Room, and tickets are available online: $10 for adults, $5 for students, and free for children 7 and under. The choir program’s spring pops concerts always play to sell-out crowds, so purchase your tickets in advance at www.collegeparkchoirs.com to make sure you get in.

Congratulations to Northgate’s Jazz Band I and Instrumental Music Director Greg Brown, who executed their signature “party on the stage” exuberance for a huge, first-place win in the High School Big Band Division at the Next Generation Jazz Festival competition, March 31 - April 2. Jazz Band I has won NextGen four years in a row, which is unsurpassed in the 47-year history of the festival. Bands from all over the country submit audition tapes to participate in the competition, and what makes this achievement all the more extraordinary is that only eight students from last year’s Jazz Band I are in the band this year. This win allows Jazz Band I to play at the 60th annual Monterey Jazz Festival this September.

You can catch the hottest show in high school jazz at their annual gig at Yoshi’s, Monday, May 22, at 7pm and 9pm. Closer to home, come on out to hear Northgate’s extraordinary classical program at their spring concert at the Lesher, Tuesday, May 16, at 7pm. Northgate High School’s Concert Band, Symphonic Band, Orchestra and Wind Ensemble take the stage at the Lesher’s beautiful Hoffmann Theater under the direction of Mr. Greg Brown. Tickets available at the Lesher Center for the Arts website.

Northgate’s Jazz Band I wins first-place win in the High School Big Band Division at the Next Generation Jazz Festival competition.

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may 2017 • ourcommunityfocus.com

Carondelet Honors AHS Principal Students Receive Jefferson Award

On April 6, Carondelet was pleased to honor eight amazing students with Jefferson Awards for their outstanding community service. Jefferson Awards is a national organization that supports, encourages, and recognizes high school students who perform extraordinary service. Each year, Carondelet allows faculty, staff, students, and parents to nominate a member of the community who has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to service. “The Jefferson Awards allow us to celebrate the vibrant culture of service at Carondelet. Our students have done amazing work and demonstrated such passion for serving the dear neighbor. We are extremely proud of all they have accomplished,” said Carondelet Principal Kevin Cushing.

The recipients for Special Project were Sophia Anderson, Class of 2018, and Cassidy Tshimbalanga, Class of 2018. The recipients for Continuous Service were Lauren Cademartori, Class of 2018; Kathleen Stein, Class of 2018; Ashley Ng, Class of 2017; Katherine Pappas, Class of 2018; Annabelle Vasconi, Class of 2020, and Lauren Wolf, Class of 2018.

Sophia A. founded a non-profit

organization called Para Ti Global in her freshman year.

Cassidy T. launched 5forFlint in 2016.

Lauren C. has been volunteering with the Down Syndrome Connection of the Bay Area since her freshman year.

Kathleen S. has completed over 480 hours of service at Camp Krem, a camp for people of all ages who are living with a range of disabilities. She has worked in their summer Communications Readiness Program with Lauren C. Ashley N. started volunteering at the Animal Rescue Foundation in 6th grade.

Currently, she volunteers at the Lindsay Wildlife Experience as a senior interpretive guide. Katherine P. performs ongoing community service as a committed volunteer of Habitat for Humanity East Bay/Silicon Valley. Annabelle V. has been volunteering through the National Charity League for many organizations, including the Bay Area Rescue Mission, Children’s Hospital in Oakland, and Swim a Mile for Women’s Cancer. Lauren W. is a member of The Marine Mammal Center’s Youth Crew Program, with over 270 hours of service and counting.

She was also chosen to sit on the inaugural TMMC Youth Advisory Board.

In April, eight Carondelet students were honored with Jefferson Awards for their outstanding community service.

CP Robotics Club

The robotics club placed ninth out of 41 teams in the first robotics competition, March 17-19. The club competed against teams from across the country and from as far away as Turkey. This was the first year the team competed, and it was only one of six rookie teams. It was recognized as Alliance Captain and awarded the Judges Award for Just in Time Engineering. To learn more about robotics, please follow the CPHS Robotics Club on Twitter @Robotics_CPHS.

SkillsUSA Technical Careers TOM DOPPE, PRINCIPAL, ALHAMBRA HIGH SCHOOL

As I mentioned in my last column, I want to highlight our different career pathways. This month I’ll share the great work in our health and medicine pathway, but first I want to share with you the impressive news related to SkillsUSA. SkillsUSA is an organization that partners with industry and schools to support technical education career programs and competitions. After a recent regional competition, 19 Alhambra students qualified to compete in the state competition in San Diego April 21 – 23. Alhambra has competed at Skills USA since 2014, and we have always placed well; last year, in fact, we had a student go on to the national competition.

On to our health and medicine pathway... the current sequence of courses students take include: medical biology, medical chemistry, and public health. In the first two courses, students cover biology and chemistry standards through the lens

of health and medicine while also getting early exposure to college and career experiences (guest speakers, college trips, etc.).

In the capstone course, public health, students start to get real world, work-based experiences.

Starting in the second semester, students have a job placement one day a week at a public health organization in the local community. This year we have students working at the Contra Costa Crisis Center, National Alliance for Mental Illness, Contra Costa Regional Medical Center, C.O.P.E. (Family Support Center for Counseling Options and Parent Education,) Loaves and Fishes of Contra Costa County, WIC of Contra Costa County, and the Food Bank of Contra Costa County. We are so appreciative of our community partners and could not do it without them, but we could use even more. As interest in the class continues to grow, so does our need for internships; so if you or your employer think there is a potential for an internship in the field of public health, please feel free to contact me directly.

As always, thank you for your support. tdoppe@martinez.k12.ca.us

Zachary’s Pizza Art Contest

Contest runs through May 31.

Zachary’s recently announced their popular biennial art contest, with submissions due May 31, 2017. Winning art will be displayed and rotated on the walls of Zachary’s for years to come. Winners also receive a $100 Zachary’s gift certificate, two Zachary’s t-shirts, and an invitation to a party celebrating the winners. The contest is open to contestants of all ages, from the young to the young at heart.

According to their press release, “We Past winner Katia Novak’s art. look for bright, colorful, and bold art. Saturated colors are recommended. Paint or other strong forms of media are encouraged. Winning artwork must include the logo or the words “Zachary’s” or “Zachary’s Chicago Pizza.” Artists often incorporate images or themes of our pizzas. Art submissions must be one of four size options: 26” x 26”, 24” x 36” (vertical or horizontal), 32” x 32”, or 36” x 48” (vertical or horizontal). Precut paper is available at the restaurants during the contest.”

Zachary’s started collecting these fun pieces from their art contest beginning in the mid-1980s and has continued the tradition every two years or so since then.

Visit http://zacharys.com/zacharys-art/ for more information. ourcommunityfocus.com • may 2017

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Idle Free Pledge

Read My Mind

BY SUPERVISOR KAREN MITCHOFF, CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, DISTRICT IV

I am in my third year serving on the Bay Area Air Quality Management District’s (BAAQMD) Board of Directors.

The Air District is tasked with regulating stationary sources of air pollution in the nine counties that surround San Francisco Bay. The board oversees policies and adopts regulations for the control of air pollution within the district.

One of our recent initiatives has been educating our community on changes we can make that help improve our air quality. BAAQMD has identified car exhaust as the number one source of poor air quality in the summertime, with negative impacts on public health that include aggravated asthma, coughing or difficult breathing, decreased lung function, cardiovascular problems, and chronic bronchitis. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that idling in personal vehicles wastes about 3 billion gallons of fuel and generates about 15 million tons of carbon dioxide annually. U.S. Dept. of Energy states that eliminating the unnecessary idling of personal vehicles would be the same as taking 5 million vehicles off the roads.

BY MICHAEL G. HARRIS, OD

Every now and then a book comes along that is so inspirational and meaningful it becomes a must read. This list includes Viktor Frankl’s Man’s Searching For Meaning, Mitch Albom’s Tuesdays with Morrie, Harold Kushner’s When Bad Things Happen to Good People, Randy Pausch’s The Last Lecture, and Ethan Hawke’s Rules For A Knight. (By the way, if you haven’t already read these treasures, what are you waiting for?)

Last year, Nobel Peace Prizewinners His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Archbishop Desmond Tutu wrote The Book of Joy, a most worthy addition to those marvelous books. The result of a weeklong celebration of the Dalai Lama’s 80th birthday, this book provides their collective wisdom on how to find “lasting happiness in a changing world.” It is their special gift to all of us.

They believe the purpose of life is to find happiness, and that the ultimate source of happiness is within us. Since we create most of our suffering, we can also create our own joy. Joy takes many shapes: pleasure, wonder, pride, gratitude, bliss, and satisfaction.

How can we live with joy in a world filled with suffering? Remember that pain is inevitable, but suffering is optional.

Sadness is the most direct challenge to joy. The way through sadness and grief is to use it as motivation to generate a deep sense of purpose. “Our greatest joy is when we seek to do good for others.”

We are meant to care for and interact with others. The old adage “Money can’t buy happiness” is wrong. It can if you spend it on others!

They cultivated eight pillars of joy: perspective, humility, humor, acceptance, forgiveness, gratitude, compassion, and generosity. Of these, compassion and generosity are the two qualities they believe lead to long-lasting happiness.

The Dalai Lama’s approach to life is basically: Why be unhappy about something if it can be remedied? (Just

Huge Impact on Air Quality

The BAAQMD has instituted an Idle Free Pledge. Individuals who take the Idle Free Pledge agree that they will turn off their vehicle’s engine when it is parked or not in use, such as when waiting to pick someone up from school, sports practice or the library, sitting at a drive-through or car wash, or checking email and voicemail. The BAAQMD finds that individual drivers can save fuel and reduce their carbon footprint by up to 1,500 pounds of greenhouse gases per year if they go “idle free.”

I will be presenting this Idle Free Pledge to the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors at our meeting and encouraging my colleagues as well as our county to take this pledge.

For individuals who take the Idle Free Pledge, this could lead to a reduction of personal funds spent on gasoline.

Because the Idle Free Pledge will also reduce the amount of ozone emitted by vehicles, health care costs associated with the negative health impacts of gasoline emissions could also decrease.

We have an opportunity to realize our climate action plan goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions with one simple change. By doing our part to incorporate this change in habit, we can provide cleaner air for Contra Costa County children and reduce the occurrence of asthma and other health impacts in our community.

JENNIFER L. MARTIN, D.D.S. Specialist in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics

2015

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401 GREGORY LANE, SUITE 126 PLEASANT HILL, CA 94523 925.676.8485 FAX 925.676.0288 www.drjennifermartin.com

may 2017 • ourcommunityfocus.com

©

The Book of Joy

fix it!) And why be unhappy if it can’t be remedied? (There’s nothing you can do, so why worry about it.) To be truly happy, you must accept the fact that frustrations and hardships are part of life. The question is not “How do we escape unhappiness?”

The question is “How can we use it as something positive?”

Acceptance allows us to move into the fullness of joy. When we accept the present, we can forgive and release the desire for a different past. Forgiveness does not mean we are accepting the wrongdoing of others, but it is the only way we can heal ourselves and be free from the past. When we forgive, we take back control of own fate and our feelings.

We become our own savior. Not forgiving robs us of the ability to enjoy and appreciate our life. Being trapped in a past fills us with anger and bitterness. Forgiveness allows us to move beyond the past and appreciate the present.

Gratitude is one of the key dimensions of joy as it connects us to other people. Compassion connects the feeling of empathy to acts of kindness, generosity, and altruism. Self-compassion is closely connected to self-acceptance. It’s hard to love others as you love yourself if you don’t love yourself.

Generosity is not just about giving money, but how we give our time. “Money can buy happiness if we spend it on others. That’s the ultimate goal of human life – to live with joy and purpose.”

The book ends with a series of “joy practices” to overcome the obstacles to joy and cultivate the eight pillars of joy. I agree with the authors that rejoicing in your day and your relationship with your community is the greatest joy. Try it and see for yourself!

RECEIVE UP TO $10 FREE WHEN YOU USE YOUR CALFRESH/EBT (SEE MARKET MANAGER FOR DETAILS)

ourcommunityfocus.com • may 2017

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MARTINEZ Farmers’ Market CLAYTON Farmers’ Market

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Saturdays • 10AM - 2PM GREGORY LN.

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Bulldogs’ Hot Bats

Alhambra Softball Off to a Great Start

BY ANDY ARMOSINO

Alhambra High School’s Junior Varsity Softball team is off to a fast start this season after winning their first two nonleague games and then snapping off five more straight victories to win the recent 33th Annual Napa High School JV Softball Tournament.

In game one against Analy from Sebastopol, Sarah Sheppard lead the attack going 3-3 while Aleena Quintero and Baylee Gibson blasted homeruns in the 11-2 drubbing. Lauren Titus and Naliah Drake contributed singles, and pitcher Lauren King scattered four hits and struck out 10 in five innings.

Windsor did not put up much of a fight in game two either, and King was dominant once again, mowing down nine Jaguar batters in just four innings.

Sheppard continued her torrid hitting with three more base knocks while team captain Ari Bethel had two of her own, including a double and three RBI’s. Rhyanna Mechling added a triple in the 11-0 shutout.

Captain Saedy James caught fire against California High from San Ramon in the nightcap, with three hits in three chances and adding three stolen bases to total seven for the day. And, of course, it was business as usual for Sheppard with two more singles and a double. Gibson added two hits, and Hannah Platt chipped in a single and stole three bases as the Bulldogs chewed up the Grizzlies 10-3.

Saturday brought a rematch of Friday’s final as the #4 seeded Cal High

got a second chance at the #1 Dogs. And, once again, the Grizzlies left the wine country disappointed, this time by a score of 8-3. Quintero hit her second homerun of the tourney, and Amy Wiebens added a pinch-hit bomb of her own. King and Platt added two hits apiece, including a threebagger for Platt.

The championship game featured the Bulldogs against the #2 seed and unbeaten Petaluma Trojans, and as it turned out, the fans got much more than their money’s worth. The Dogs left the bases loaded twice in the first two innings without pushing across a single run. Petaluma seized the opportunity and built a 4-0 lead before AHS finally scored a run. The Trojans seemed to be on cruise control for the next several innings, but that was soon about to change. Still down 4-1 in the bottom of the seventh, James gathered the troops in a last ditch effort pep talk to try and get something started, and then leading by example, followed with a single. Gibson then smashed the second pitch she saw high off the building wall beyond the left field fence to make it a 4-3 game. With players and fans on their feet, Sheppard stepped into the box and hit a towering fly ball off the left center field fence but was held to a long single.

It didn’t matter, though. A fatigued King came up next and had just enough left in her tank, helping her own cause by delivering the knockout blow, a high drive down the right field line and well over the fence for the walk off victory. Pandemonium followed.

SOCCER TRYOUTS U15-U19 STARTS MAY 1ST FOR DIABLO FC!

Since 2015, we have placed 41 of our players into playing soccer at a 4 year college!!

We encourage you to come tryout for Diablo FC. Diablo FC values players of all ages and abilities. We have teams for all different levels of play.Our top teams all play in the National Premier League (NPL) and play in the top tournaments in the country including Surf Cup, Surf College Cup, November Nights, Player’s Showcase, and many more.

Our NPL Teams have placed players in the following colleges in the past 2 years to play college soccer: Yale, UC Berkeley, St. Mary’s, Colorado State, Sacramento State, Portland, Portland State, Army, Cal State Fullerton, San Jose State, University of Pacific, University of San Francisco, Bradley, West Point, San Francisco State, Chico State, Sonoma State, West Point, UC San Diego, Chaminade, Cal State East Bay, Sacred Heart, Holy Names and many more!

We offer financial aid and have monthly affordable payments options!

For questions or more information contact: Director of Coaching • Zach Sullivan • docdiablofc@gmail.com

To register for tryouts go to www.diablofc.org Born in 2003-1999 May 1 & 8 (Mondays) Mt. Diablo HS 6:00pm-7:30pm (2003 Boys and 2003 Girls) 7:30pm-9:00pm (2002 Boys and 2002 Girls

May 3 & 10 (Wednesdays) Mt. Diablo HS 6:00pm-7:30pm (2001 Boys and 2001 Girls) 7:30pm-9:00pm (2000/99 Boys and 2000/99 Girls)

Call backs will occur for our NPL teams over the first few weeks in May.

Mt. Diablo HS- 2450 Grant St. Concord ourcommunityfocus.com • may 2017

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Goodbye and Hello

College Park Coaching Staff Changes

BY JIM KECK, COLLEGE PARK ATHLETIC DIRECTOR

As we all know, life brings change.

This holds true with our coaching staff.

Long time basketball coach Troy Faulk announced that he will be stepping down effective immediately. Coach Faulk shared his difficult decision with the team on April 25. Saying goodbye to a program he has been dedicated to for nine years wasn’t easy. Faulk always expected his student-athletes to be all in, and has held the same expectation for himself. His new job and family commitments have led him to take some time away from the team and the sport he loves.

Coach Faulk has coached at College Park since 2008, serving as a varsity assistant. He was on staff for three DVAL championships, and the Nor Cal /State Finals run in 2013. In 2015, Coach Faulk took over the head coaching position, leading the team to a DVAL championship season, NCS birth and posting a 22-7 record. During Coach Faulk’s three years as head coach, they posted a 49-33 overall record, won two DVAL championships, and advanced to NCS each season.

One of Coach Faulk’s key contributions during his tenure has been the College Park team room in the small gym.

The space has lockers, record boards, team benches, and a flat screen TV for

teams to take advantage of. This room is not only used by the basketball programs but our volleyball teams as well. Troy made it a priority to push this project to completion with paperwork and fundraising.

Coach Faulk’s lasting contribution will always be the young men he has mentored during his time here at CP. He has always asked his players for their best and they have responded in kind. His professionalism, attention to detail, and passion for the game will be missed. There were handshakes and more than a few teary eyes when Troy discussed his decision with the team.

Thank you Coach Faulk for your dedication and service here at College Park.

You will be missed.

College Park would like to welcome the new girls’ volleyball coach, Melissa Ralls. Coach Ralls played for two years at Merced College as a Libero. She brings seven years of coaching experience to College Park, having coached at the middle school, high school and club levels. Coach Ralls currently coaches at Pacific Rim Volleyball Academy in the offseason. She has met with the team and will be announcing her staff and plans for team workouts shortly.

Coach Ralls fills the position previously held by Kent Perkins who stepped down for family and health reasons.

Dodgeball Champs 2017

Falcons vs. Dogs

The College Park Falcons and Alhambra Bulldogs squared off on April 18 with the Falcons’ 2-run lead in the first paying off for a 2-1 win. CP’s Kellen Kozlowski pitched 5.1 innings allowing 3 hits, while Jordyn Eglite went 6 innings and allowed 2. Braeden Gowdy wrapped up on the mound for the Falcons. Tyler Boyce, Eglite and Trent Green had one hit each for the Bulldogs. Falcons Chris Gardner and Ian MacIver each had a knock.

CP junior Christian Encarnacion-Strand faces AHS senior Jordyn Eglite at home on April 18.

Headed to Oregon

College Park senior, Nick Lombardi, signs National Letter of Intent to play basketball for Lewis and Clark in Portland, Oregon.

CPHS Volleyball

College Park celebrates with a trophy at the Surf City Volleyball Tournament held in Santa Cruz on April 15.

Winners of the annual College Park Dodgeball Tournament are Forrest Steele, Ryan Zimmerman, Jackson Driver, Thomas Seibel, Tyler Stokes and Dylan Ban. may 2017 • ourcommunityfocus.com 24

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WALNUT CREEK SOCCER CLUB

2017 TRYOUTS SCHEDULE U15-U19 (1999-2003)

Registration is open for any child, ages 5 through 18, to play soccer regardless of ability or experience.

All tryouts will be held at Heather Farm Fields TRYOUT SESSION #1 May 1 Field #1 • 4pm-5:30pm (‘99-‘00) Boys & Girls May 2 Field #1 • 4pm-5:30pm (‘03) Girls • 5:30pm-7pm (‘02) Girls • 7pm-8:30pm (‘01) Girls May 3 Field #1 • 4pm-5:30pm (‘01) Boys May 4 Field #1 • 4pm-5:30pm (‘03) Boys • 5:30pm-7pm (‘02) Boys

TRYOUT SESSION #2 May 8 Field #1 • 4pm-5:30pm (‘99-‘00) Girls • 4pm-5:30pm (‘99-‘00) Boys May 9 Field #1 • 4pm-5:50pm (‘03) Girls • 5:30pm-7pm (‘02) Girls • 7pm-8:30pm (‘01) Girls May 10 Field #1 • 4pm-5:30pm (‘01) Boys

TRYOUT SESSION #3 May 13 Field #1 (Boys) Field #2 (Girls) • 9am-10:30am (‘03) Boys & Girls • 10:30am-12pm (‘02) Boys & Girls • 12:30pm-2pm (‘01) Boys & Girls • 2pm-3:30pm (‘99-‘00) Boys & Girls

New Eagle Scouts

Five College Park seniors, Daniel and Sean Elerding, Matthew Kaneda, Kevan Tabatabai, and Joey A. Higgins, from Boy Scout Troop 401 of Pleasant Hill, under the guidance of Scoutmaster Dennis Kameya and Assistant Scoutmaster Steve Miller, will be awarded the rank of Eagle Scout at the Eagle Scout Court of Honor ceremony on May 21. Daniel’s project entailed building three benches and five bow racks for the Briones Archery Club. Sean’s project was building four gun racks for the Martinez Gun Club. Matthew’s project included building two communion tables for his church, Christian Layman Church. Kevan’s project was building an information kiosk for Rodgers Ranch Heritage Center. Rodgers Ranch wants to inform their visitors about the benefits of rain barrel use and water conservation. Joey A. Higgins’ Eagle Project was to build steps and handrails along with a pathway at the Rogers Ranch Heritage Center to increase accessibility.

May 11 Field #1 • 4pm-5:30pm (‘03) Boys • 5:30pm-7pm (‘02) Boys

Visit our website one day prior for possible changes to tryout schedule.

Register at www.wcsc.org prior to tryouts.

CS Cake Ad February 2015.pdf

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1/26/15

2:50 PM

Daniel and Sean Elerding, Matthew Kaneda, Kevan Tabatabai and Joey A. Higgins (not pictured).

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EXPIRES 5/31/17

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Play and Splash All Summer Long!

Join the Y Today!

IRVIN DEUTSCHER FAMILY YMCA

350 Civic Drive Pleasant Hill CA

Free!

T: 925-687-8900 www.IDFYMCA.org

sunset by the lake

summer concerts

Pleasant Hill City Hall Gregory Ln & Cleaveland Rd LIVE MUSIC & FUN! FOOD & BEVERAGE sales!

6

On the lawn by the lake at

-8 pm

Cruda May 28...Carne !

Hot, Hot, HOT! Jun 11...Trouble with Monkeys

Monkees tribute band

Jun 25...Frankie G. High-energy blues & grooves

Jul 9...The Bell Br Hot country rock others & roll

Jul 23...Aja Vu ues Rock and jazzy bl Aug 6...East Bay Mudd Classic fun & soul

Sponsored by Pleasant Hill Civic Action Commission

Visit www.pleasanthillconcerts.com for all concert information.

Aug 20...The Big Jangle Tom Petty tribute band

Oasis Veterinary Hospital

Sep 3...Groove Do Variety dance pa ctors rty band

Club of Pleasant Hill

ourcommunityfocus.com • may 2017

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Pair Up

Spanish Whites

BY MARIA TERRY

A trip to Spain is definitely on my bucket list. It is a wine destination that has it all: red, white, dry, sweet, sparkling and still. They also have amazing food. Oh yeah, they do have some cool cultural things and it’s quite pretty, but in all honesty, I’d primarily go there to eat and drink.

I like to start my meals with sparkling wine, so why not start my trip to Spain in sparkling wine country? Penedés is in the northeastern region of Spain, about an hour from Barcelona. Cava is Spanish sparkling wine, and only wines produced in the champenoise traditional method may be labeled Cava. I find most Cavas to be dry, crisp, and citrusy. It is a terrific partner with just about any food that has lemon as an ingredient or anything on which you might be inclined to squeeze

a lemon. The Fava Bean Dip listed here reminds me of traditional chickpea hummus, rich and smooth. It gets an additional boost of tartness from goat cheese and lemon. It is great with chips or veggies for dipping.

As you enjoy your starter, make your main course, a classic Spanish tortilla.

This dish confuses many people because they call it a tortilla even though there are no flour or corn based products used.

Others refer to it as an omelet because it uses eggs, but it is often served cold and there is no complicated act of eggs being folded over a cheesy filling. To me, it is most like an Italian frittata, which is basically an egg holding together various ingredients. The classic Spanish version classically incorporates potatoes and onions. The recipe below or at www.LaSommelierre.com utilizes sweet potatoes, thyme and a touch of nutmeg.

The resulting dish is both sweet and savory. Complement the tortilla with a

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white Spanish wine called Godello and a side salad made from arugula topped with toasted pine nuts, dressed with a squeeze of lemon, a drizzle of olive oil, and a sprinkle of salt.

Some consider Godello Spain’s answer to Chardonnay. Grown in Galicia, which is in the northwest region of Spain, the Godello grape is versatile and somewhat neutral. This means it is good at reflecting the methods of the winemaker.

Producers in Bierzo age Godello in oak barrels, which makes richer, fuller wines.

On the other hand, the Godellos from Valdeorras tend to be aged in steel tanks, giving them a fresher, livelier quality. In any case, the base fruit has the same citrus, melon and tropical fruit flavors that are often found in California Chardonnays.

A nutty end to your Spanish evening is a Tarta de Santiago (www.LaSommelierre.com), which is also from Galicia and similar to a Jewish Passover cake. It is possible that this Spanish dessert is related to the classic Passover dish because the Jews came to Galicia in the twelfth and thirteenth centuries. Its almond flavor is

Fava Bean Dip INGREDIENTS ½ cup chopped garlic, cooked until soft, in one tbsp. of olive oil 2-3 lbs. fresh fava beans, shelled and cooked (about 2 cups) 1 teaspoon lemon zest 2 tbsp. lemon juice ¼ cup water 5 ounces goat cheese Salt and pepper DIRECTIONS Place beans, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, and water in food processor, pulse until smooth. Stream in a tablespoon or two more of olive oil while puréeing.

Add goat cheese and pulse until just combined. Add more water if thinner consistency is desired. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve with fresh cucumbers, red peppers, and jicama.

Yield: 2 Cups

..........................................................

enhanced by the addition of lemon and orange zest. It is delicious with a sweet version of citrusy Cava. Do be sure to ask your retailer for help finding a sweet one since it is often difficult to tell by the label. If you can’t find a sweet Cava, a sweet Prosecco or Moscato will work.

So, go on. Pair Up!

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

Sweet Potato Tortilla (Spanish Omelet) INGREDIENTS 3 tablespoons olive oil 1 large onion 3 sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into thin rounds 8 eggs ¾ teaspoon sea salt Freshly ground pepper ¾ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg 3 tablespoons chopped parsley 1 small tablespoon thyme leaves DIRECTIONS In a 10” cast iron or ovenproof skillet set over medium-high heat, heat oil, and add in onions to caramelize, stirring constantly for 1 minute. Turn down heat to low and cook onions until they begin to turn golden. Add in sweet potatoes and stir to coat in oil and onion mixture.

Cover with lid and cook until sweet potatoes are tender, about 10 minutes.

Transfer to a large bowl and set aside.

Keep skillet over hot flame.

In a small bowl, whisk together eggs, salt, pepper, nutmeg, parsley, and thyme. Pour over sweet potatoes and stir to incorporate.

Add remaining tablespoon olive oil to skillet and pour in sweet potato-egg mixture. Let cook over medium heat until the edges seem to firm up, about 5 minutes, then transfer to oven to cook.

Tortilla is ready when all the egg has set, about 20 minutes. Let cool slightly before flipping tortilla over onto a plate and slicing to serve.

Yield: 6-8 servings

..........................................................

In the Garden

Cherries, the Treasured Tiny Stone Fruit

BY LESLEY STILES

I know that non-Californian and especially non-Bay Area natives love to wax ecstatic about how our home has no seasons and how elsewhere they’ve walked five miles in below zero weather in the winter, and the humidity in the summer can kill ya, and we won’t even get into the amazing fall colors...blah blah. Anyway, I have been to a few places, and I disagree because spring in our area disproves any of that hooey.

The air takes on a velvety quality and blood starts racing in sluggish veins, quickening smiles as well as other parts of the

Crispy Romaine Salad Roasted Duck Cherry Balsamic Drizzle INGREDIENTS 1 head romaine lettuce, medium chopped ½ cup crumbled feta cheese ¼ cup chopped green onion ½ pound roasted duck, shredded 2/3 cup Bing cherries, washed, pitted and halved ¼ cup chopped, toasted local almonds 3 tablespoons good, fruity olive oil 3 tablespoons Balsamic drizzle (recipe follows) Toss lettuce, feta, green onions, duck, and cherries together in a large bowl with olive oil and drizzle. Garnish with almonds.

Cherry Balsamic Drizzle 3 cups pureed cherries 3 cups balsamic vinegar 2 cups red wine ½ cup honey DIRECTIONS Pour wine and balsamic vinegar into a non-reactive saucepan. Bring to a boil and reduce by half. Add cherries and reduce by one third. Add honey and simmer for 5 minutes.

To this base you can add rosemary, tarragon, orange peel or crushed cranberries as variations.

Use for a dressing on salad with olive oil or as a sauce to grilled chicken, roasted duck or vegetables. Store covered in fridge for up to 2 months.

Makes 2 Cups

..........................................................

body. Along with varying arrays of impossibly beautiful flower hues and tree varieties, we grow or partake in a dizzying amount of vegetables and fruits. Spring drops flavor bombs of cherries, apricots, asparagus, peas, fava beans, green garlic, and so many more that I’m excited just banging out the words on my keys.

With most crops available from other parts of the world year- round, it is fast becoming a lost pleasure to cling wildly against the tides. Sadly, many of the younger set have no idea what taste anticipation or seasonal eating even means. Cherries are the exception, mostly to the rule of endless availability. In Northern and Central California, cherries reign supreme. Difficult to mess with their season, they start to come on intensely in late April and early May and go until late June. About February the seed of an idea starts to play in the brain. Yes, our memory says, I remember those cherries; it seems they had a cup of juice in each one.

Every year farmers and their scientists come up with new exciting “breeds” of moneymaking love to tempt the general consumer of George Washington’s favorite fruit, selling more and more each year.

Anticipation around cherry season pulls as strong as Mavericks Tide on our sense of taste come springtime. Farmers’ markets abound with juice heavy temptations of America’s most beloved tiny stone fruit.

Early, mid and late season varieties move in and set up shop, allowing shoppers to load more than digestion can generally handle into reusable bags. Bing cherries are pretty amazing: sweet, juicy and what you remember eating as a kid. Rainiers are the pinkish white ones that are amazing in pies due to their cloyingly sweet insides and tart lining just under the skin. Eaten out of hand from the farmers’ market to distraction, I suggest getting your fill before driving home.

After out-of-hand consumptions have been narcotically exhausted, brave souls may begin to pit. Pit enough for a crisp or pie or, better yet, creamy vanilla scented bread pudding or almond flavored French toast. Cherries are remarkable with savory delights and manage particularly well with fowl and honeyed balsamic. Mimick-

ing George and trying to grow your own cherries does not always meet satisfactory levels of fruition, however. Cherry trees must be paired sexually opposing each other, much as humans, to reproduce. Same sex, celibate, and even self-pollinating trees, may disappoint.

Summer gardens should be in and going great guns at this point, but if you have been a slacker, don’t beat yourself up. Just get going and plant some food in your yard.

Hiking is at peak season in the local hills, where greens and wild flowers beg to be fawned over after such lush rain gave them all new life. Get out and move it to lose it!

Lesley Stiles is a graduate of the California Culinary Academy, sustainable caterer and school garden educator. Contact Lesley at lesleystiles@comcast.net, www. lesleystiles.blogspot.com and visit her new website: www.lesleystilesfoods.com.

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2015

(925) 939-7060 | SusanWoodPhotography.com | susanwoodphoto@hotmail.com

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40 Golf Club RD., Pleasant Hill 925.676.2420 • WWW.ELTAPS.COM ourcommunityfocus.com • may 2017

29

In the Mix With Angela Warren

BY PAUL COTRUVO

College Park graduate Angela Warren had a vision.

And that vision was to own and operate an intimate restaurant with a local, hometown feel. That dream came to fruition last year when she opened WiseGirl Ristorante Italiano & Cocktails in Pleasant Hill: a very successful venue with a speakeasy vibe. But what was great about Angela’s dream is she wanted to include a local music scene as part of the restaurant, something not too many owners would take on. I applaud her effort. She has turned this venue into an amazing nightspot that has become a favorite for locals. Thursday nights are mainly reserved for “acoustic” acts, which makes it a great start to the weekend. Friday and Saturday nights feature bands of all genres. Country, blues, rock, tribute bands, and dance bands pack them in on a regular basis. However, I am

not just writing to promote this venue but to feature a person who truly has one of the biggest hearts around. I know WiseGirl is successful not only because of the great atmosphere and food but because Angela is genuine and thoughtful. She has the amazing gift of making you feel like you are her best friend. As she is an amazing human being, entrepreneur and businesswoman, she had a few minutes for this interview, so let’s meet Angela Warren.

PC: What interested or inspired you to become a business owner?

AW: My inspiration comes from a long family history of being in the restaurant business. I wanted to be a doctor when I was growing up. Somehow all of my life choices ended up allowing me opportunities to become a restaurant owner. Many things drive me, but ultimately, I think it’s important for women to be in business, to take chances, to use their talents. Don’t get me wrong; it’s a lot of sacrifice to own a business and balance motherhood and all

of life’s demands. I just have to stay grateful for all I have and keep pushing forward.

PC: Do you play any instruments or sing?

AW: I sang from the time I was a little girl and into young adulthood. I was even in the church choir (hymnal, choir robe and all!) I really haven’t sung in my adult life, unless you count the evenings spent among friends at the restaurant with a little liquid courage to help.

PC: Why do you have music in your restaurant?

AW: Music is a way to connect everyone -- a universal language, a way to break bread with people and bring them together.

PC: What have been some of the highlights of WiseGirl?

AW: There have been many. Most recently, there was a night where you (Paul) played with Acoustic Jangle, and the collaboration of talent was magical. Carlos Reyes made a guest appearance along with several other local musicians. It was pure joy. The energy was amazing. WiseGirl is fortunate to have these special nights fairly often.

PC: Do you have any future plans for WiseGirl, or possibly opening another venue?

AW: For now I have to keep this a secret. I can tell you that I will continue supporting live music and all of the amazing talent that plays at WG.

Angela Warren. Photo by Jessamyn Photography.

PC: If you were a song, what song would you be and why?

AW: Toby Keith’s “I Love This Bar.” The lyrics are priceless. For the most part, with a twinge of humor, they express how I feel about WG.

“I love this bar/It’s my kind of place/ Just walk in through the front door/ Puts a big smile on my face/It ain’t too far, come as you are.” The song basically says all are welcome, regardless of who they are or what they do out in the world. There’s no judgment; it’s a place for everyone.

Quote of the Month: Music doesn’t lie. If there is something to be changed in this world, then it can only happen through music. ~~ Jimi Hendrix

Paul’s Picks May 4: Lumberyard, WiseGirl, 1932 Oak Park Blvd., Pleasant Hill, 9pm May 6: Caroompas Room, Armando’s, 707 Marina Vista, Martinez, 8pm May 18: Sin Silver, Rocco’s, 2909 Ygnacio Valley Rd., Walnut Creek, 8pm May 24: Bob Dylan Birthday Celebration with Jim Caroompas and Paul Cotruvo +

Special Guests, Armando’s, 707 Marina Vista, Martinez, 8pm May 27: Tender Mercies, Armando’s, 707 Marina Vista, Martinez, 8pm May 27: Billy Schaub, Rocco’s, 2909 Ygnacio Valley Rd., Walnut Creek, 8pm May 27: Fast Times, Dan’s Bar, 1524 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek, 10pm May 28: The Sunday Paper, Armando’s, 707 Marina Vista, Martinez, 4pm VENUES: Armando’s: 707 Marina Vista, Martinez - www.armandosmartinez.com Back Forty: 100 Coggins Drive-Pleasant Hill Wise Girl: 1932 Oak Park Blvd. Pleasant Hil - www.wisegirlph.com Dan’s Bar: 1524 Civic Drive Walnut Creek - www.dansbar.com Roxx on Main: 627 Main St. Martinez - www.roxxonmain.com Rocco’s Pizzeria: 2909 Ygnacio Valley Road Walnut Creek CA -www.roccospizzeria.com 30

may 2017 • ourcommunityfocus.com

P L E A S A N T

H I L L

C H A M B E R

O F

C O M M E R C E

It’s Your Business.

Consumers are more likely to do business with a company May 2017 if it’s a member of their local chamber of commerce.

YOU DON'T WANT TO MISS THESE UPCOMING OPPORTUNITIES

Don't miss another Chamber Event. Sign up to receive alerts on the day of the event.

Just text the words "notify ipleasanthill" to the number #313131.

Welcome New Members

Intention Advertising

Elena Hutslar

(925) 408-6142

John Muir Land Trust

Linus Eukel

(925) 228-5460

LarryLogic Productions

Laurance Hunt

(925) 864-6301

Bay Commercial Bank

Lynn Lu

(925) 476-1859

Conference Direct

Lisa Jarvis

(925) 288-1443

Local Happenings Magazine

Robert Briseno

(707) 652-3223

Have you heard about the new “Gig Economy”? Attend our Business Runway seminar on May 31 to learn how this new trend can help grow your business. Looking for additional exposure for your business? Call me today and learn more about how we can make this happen in our 2017/18 Destination Guide and Business Directorydeadline is May 19! Lastly, always wanted to visit China?

Join the chamber April 6-14, 2018 for an unbelievable price of $2,099 (includes roundtrip airfare, 4 and 5 star hotels, 3 meals a day while visiting China’s top attractions). Thank you for your continued support and see you around Pleasant Hill.

Steve Van Dorn President & CEO

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

www.pleasanthillchamber.com

ourcommunityfocus.com • may 2017

31

As Russ Sees It

The Simple Life is Okay with Me

BY RUSSELL CARROLL

Like any great athlete (ha!), if you play a game at the highest level, the game begins to slow down. Well, let me just say that the game has slowed way down for me. Goals, needs, and expectations are all pretty much in neutral. My life is pretty simple right now, and I have to say that I like it.

I’ve got nothing to do and all day to do it.

I first noticed a trend when my girlfriend said, “Let’s get outside today, it’s beautiful.” So I went outside and sat in a folding chair on the deck. Apparently, this was not what she had in mind.

I’ll give her credit though; she sat right down next to me. Later she said, “Let’s go out!” So I went back outside and sat in a folding chair on the deck. Apparently, I missed that call too. Trying to rouse me she said, “Let’s go get sushi.” I said, “There’s tuna in the cupboard.” Apparently, I missed that one as well.

It started to hit me awhile back when I was filling out an online profile.

When I got to the section for date of birth and clicked the drop box for year of birth, it took forever to scroll down to my year. It was like being on the wheel of fortune; the wheel just kept spinning! I

knew I was getting really lazy when I answered certain questions on the profile.

Place of birth? My answer: “Hospital.” Did you graduate high school? My answer: “Barely.” Graduation date? My answer: “Karen Cavoto.” Sex? “Yes, but rarely. Any ideas?”

I knew it was going south when I started reading the AARP magazine and took telemarketing calls so I had someone to talk to. When I get those calls I always like to answer, “Hey buddy, what’s up?” The other night I found myself in Safeway wearing slippers. My only thought was,“God, please don’t let me run into someone I know.” I checked to make sure my zipper was up and headed in like I owned the place. I mean slippers are one thing, but the barn door being open is another.

Regardless, I am still happy to be me.

After all, it’s not the years; it’s the miles. I think I got a few miles left, and I have the best stories ever! After all, I am a great dad. I borrow money from my son. It’s awesome. I say, “Hey bud, you got a few bucks to loan me?” It’s just like all those years when the kids asked to borrow money and I was well aware I’d never see it. Now that I am AARP eligible, it feels great to steal money from my children.

After all, I am way ahead on this scorecard. But…that’s just how I see it.

2015

THANKS TO OUR CUSTOMERS FOR VOTING US #1!

2013 • 2014 • 2015 32

may 2017 • ourcommunityfocus.com

Bay Area KidFest

A Potpourri of Entertainment and Activities for Families

The 28th annual Bay Area KidFest on Memorial Day weekend, May 27-29, is one of the Bay Area’s longest-running family events, and this year has three days of jam-packed entertainment, activities, food and fun planned in downtown Concord.

In a spacious outdoor setting at Mt. Diablo High School, KidFest features free, non-stop entertainment on the main stage, the super popular Wild About Monkeys Show, Python Ron’s Reptile Kingdom, Robert Castillo’s BMX Freestyle Team, and the chance to meet and have your photo taken with Batman and Curious George.

There are dozens of other free kids’ activities, including Kid’s Town America, face painting, balloon hats, spin art, keepsake handprints, slides, crawls, kiddie golf, soccer, and much more included in the low admission price.

This year’s KidFest is offering an all-day, all-ride wristband to be used on

all the thrilling rides, including zip line, Bobble Lagoon, roller coaster, Zippy Pet cars, Xtreme Lasertag, Euro-Bungy trampoline, Spider Mountain, Ferris wheel, giant slide, petting zoo, pony rides, train and more rides. Advance sales of wristbands, including a free admission ticket, are offered on the KidFest website for a limited time at www.

KidFestConcord.com.

There’s also an eclectic food court, arts and crafts, and exhibitor booths.

For the seventh year, KidFest presents a special Memorial Day ceremony at noon on Monday, May 29, with the 17-time champion Concord Blue Devils C Drum and Bugle Corps, Mt. Diablo High School Jr. ROTC color guard, and music honoring America’s service people, past and present, sung by Janelle Feraro.

For the fifth consecutive Claycord reader’s poll, KidFest was voted Best Community Event. This category covers

events in Pleasant Hill, Martinez, Clayton, Concord and Walnut Creek. KidFest has won this category every time the poll has been held.

Admission is just $6 with a donation of canned food to the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano or $7 without donation to the Food Bank. Babies under 24 months and seniors 65+ are free.

On Saturday, attendees can double the discount deal by bringing two canned goods to get $2 off an admission.

Proceeds from Bay Area KidFest benefit local educational, health and sports groups. KidFest continues for the 22nd year as one of the major annual donor events for the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano.

KidFest is open 10am – 6pm on Saturday and Sunday and 10am – 5pm on Memorial Day Monday. KidFest is held at Mt. Diablo High School, 2450 Grant St. in downtown Concord, just off Highway 242.

Wild About Monkeys Show

On-site vehicle parking is $5, with plenty of free street parking around the site also available.

For more information, visit www.

KidFestConcord.com.

Free with admission!

May 27, 28 & 29

Entertainment stage Kid’s Town America Bounces and Crawls Balloon Art & Handprints Face Painting & Spin Art Da Island Way Dancers Memorial Day Ceremony

Memorial Day Weekend Downtown Concord 3 s Showy! a Da BayAreaFestivals

Sat & Sun 10am - 6pm • Mon 10am - 5pm

ALL SHOWS FREE with admission

@BayAreaKidFest

4 s Showy! a Da

FREE Goody Bag to first 500 families each day

featuring Concord Blue Devils

W! NE ay D l l A Ride s All band ist Wr

Plus (extra charge)

Eclectic Food Court Roller Coaster & Laser Tag Zip Line & 15 other rides Pony Rides & Petting Zoo Exhibitor Booths

Meet & Greet s how 3 S ay!

D a

14th Spring Diversity Festival Sat 11am - 1pm on stage

Python Ron’s Reptile Kingdom

Muir Station Smiles

Concord

KidFest in Concord at Mt. Diablo High School, 2450 Grant St. KidFest proceeds benefit local education, youth sports & health non-profits

(925) 671-3287 Produced by

www.KidFestConcord.com

AY URD SAT ECIAL s SP 2 Can g f Brin $2 of for ission adm

*Admission $6 per person with canned food donation; $7 without donation.

Babies under 24 months and seniors 65+ FREE!

2016 Best of Claycord

5 Times Voted Best Festival by readers of Claycord.com AttrActions, progrAms & schedule subject to chAnge.

ourcommunityfocus.com • may 2017

33

Generations Celebrate Easter

The Alzheimer’s Respite Program and St. Catherine’s Preschool collaborated to provide Easter fun for both the respite clients and the preschool students. Bringing different generations together to share experiences, knowledge and skills is so important, and this was intergenerational programming at its finest!

Respite center staff members Edna Esposito and Linda Valenziano came up with the idea of collaborating with St. Catherine’s Preschool to provide students with Easter fun. They contacted Preschool Director Kelly Pola to see if they would be interested in participating in the event. Without hesitation Pola agreed, and the respite program started planning. Respite clients made Easter bags for each child, filled Easter eggs with goodies, and then went down to the park to hide all the eggs in preparation for an Easter egg hunt.

On the day of the event, the respite clients waited for the preschool kids at the park. The kids arrived, and the respite clients helped them on their hunt to find the all the eggs. The Easter bunny made an appearance (thanks to the Martinez Recreation Department), and a fun day was had by all!

Martinez Senior Activities

818 Green Street, Martinez 925-370-8770 Wednesdays – Jack’s Sweet 100 Line Dances 10:30am – 12pm. Line dancing to country-western, popular and Latin music. Enjoy the exercise while meeting friends new and old. Fee: $3 members, drop-ins welcome Thursdays - Bingo. Sales at 12pm and play from 1-4pm. $5 per pack, $30 guaranteed minimum prize for 10 games.

May 12 - AARP Driver Safety and Refresher 10am-3:15pm. This course is designed for drivers ages 50 and older to help update driving skills and knowledge of the rules and hazards of the road. Signups are available in person or by phone (925-370-8770).

May 14 - Pancake Breakfast 8-11am. This delicious breakfast includes pancakes or toast, sausage, eggs, orange juice and coffee. Everyone is welcome. $4.00 for adults/$2.50 for children 10 and under. Volunteers needed! If you’re interested in helping set up, serving breakfast or cleaning up, please contact the front desk at (925) 370-8770.

Pleasant Hill Senior Activities 233 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill 925-798-8788 May 5 - LAUGH, LOVE AND LEARN 9:30am-1pm at the PH Senior Center. Senior Live Well Forum: A day full of educational and uplifting speakers with lunch. Featured programs: “Get the Facts on Medical Marijuana,” presented by Eloise Theisen, RN; “Frauds & Scams Targeting Seniors,” presented by FBI Special Agent D. Strange; “A Day in the Life of a Romance Author,” presented by author Gretchen De La O. Tickets: $35, register at www.pleasanthillrec.com. Come early for the FREE Ultimate Senior Resource Fair from 8:30am-1pm. Over 50 vendors from the local area and free giveaways.

May 7 - Pancake Breakfast 8:30-10:30am. All ages welcome! Enjoy a stack of pancakes, eggs, sausage, orange juice and coffee. Adults (11+) $5; Children (5-10) $3; 4 & under free!

FREE! Care Management Program Series 2nd Thursday each month, 2-3:30pm. Call 7988788 to RSVP. FREE! May 11 - “Talk Therapy,” presented by Senior Outreach Services. June 8: “If I Drink That Much Water, I’ll Have to go to the Bathroom,” presented by Carlton Senior Living.

Sons of Italy Annual BBQ

The Sons of Italy Diablo Valley Lodge #2167 will hold their summer BBQ on Sunday, June 4, 11am – 3pm at the Viano Vineyards on Morello Avenue in Martinez. The public is invited to join us. This is a catered event by Steel Smokin’ BBQ of Pleasant Hill. Wine may be purchased at Viano Vineyards. Music entertainment by Eddie Togonon.

Reservations are required and seating is limited. This is an adults only event. The price is $25 per person for non-SOI members and $20 for SOI members. For reservations, contact Anne Mobley at 925-788-8824 or whiterabbit531@sbcglobal.net.

This chapter of the Sons of Italy meets once per month at various local locations on the third Thursday of the month at 6pm.

Brain Awareness Month

The Pleasant Hill Commission on Aging and the Alzheimer’s Association are cosponsoring a FREE lecture series. All three lectures will be held from 2-3pm in the City Council Chambers at City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill. Please call (925) 671-5221 to register for the following lectures: June 8 “Healthy Living for Your Brain and Body” June 15 “Maximize Your Memory: Tips and Strategies” June 22 “Know the Ten Signs: Early Detection Matters”

The lectures will include the latest scientific research about how nutrition, physical and brain exercise, and social engagement affect your brain health. Find out the difference between normal and abnormal memory loss as we age and how you can work to increase your memory.

34

may 2017 • ourcommunityfocus.com

May 26 - Memorial Day Program & Ice Cream Social 1:30pm. Free for all ages! Celebrate our veterans and remember those we lost with a program featuring PHSC’s very own Golden Notes Chorus and Olympic High School’s JROTC. Enjoy a refreshing ice cream treat sponsored by Carlton Senior Living.

Visiting Alcatraz

Pictured are some members of the Pleasant Hill Senior Center who enjoyed a sunny day in March visiting and touring Alcatraz Island.

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ourcommunityfocus.com • may 2017

35

Wish Upon a Star

Peter Pan Foundation Performs for Special Needs Audiences

The Peter Pan Foundation (PFF) performs its annual original musical, Wish Upon A Star, at Diablo Valley Col-

lege on Memorial Day weekend. This is a spectacular show, with eight shows throughout the weekend and a cast of

more than 200 performers. Princesses, heroes, villains and more make this musical adventure great fun for the whole family. This show is PPF’s biggest event and fundraiser of the year, with proceeds donated to UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital Oakland.

This year, the foundation is doing something really special. For the afternoon matinees, groups who may not normally have the opportunity to enjoy live musical theater have been invited. For the Saturday matinee, we are offering discounted tickets to senior communities in the area and even taking a few “mini” shows to their facilities

for those residents not able to come.

For the Sunday 2pm show, we have partnered with hearing-impaired communities and hired an American Sign Language interpreter for the performance. For Monday’s matinee, we have partnered, once again, with Easter Seals East Bay for special needs children, children with autism, and their families.

The Peter Pan Foundation is so excited to bring music and magic to these under-served communities and offer them an opportunity to enjoy live musical theater. Tickets are available for all eight performances at www.peterpanfoundation.org.

Celebrating 75 Years Pictured are Maggie Kennedy playing Elsa and Jordan Ben-Shmuel as Anna. Photo by Leslie Noel.

Spring Catnap in 5...4...3...

Approved by Hillcrest

Veterinary Hospital For All Cats

Zachary J. Anderson, DVM Terri Lamp, DVM Joseph A. Thibedeau, DVM 2211 Morello Avenue Pleasant Hill, CA 94523 925-676-1909 www.hillcrestvet.com 36

may 2017 • ourcommunityfocus.com

The Diablo Women’s Chorale invites you to join them in celebrating 75 years in the community with their spring concert, Make Them Hear You! Music for Our Times, Saturday, May 20. Showtime is 2pm at Walnut Creek Presbyterian Church, 1801 Lacassie Avenue.

Director Lisa Forkish, accompanist Carolyn Wolf, and the Diablo Women’s Chorale present songs that celebrate the power of the human spirit and the connections between us. From classic poetic melodies to contemporary pop anthems, featuring music from a live band, it’s entertainment for the whole family and a great way to start the summer!

Advance purchase tickets are $18 general admission, $10 student, and $24 premium seating. Purchase at the door for $20. Call 1-800-838-3006 or go online at www.DiabloWomensChorale.org.

Diablo Women’s Chorale is a lively group of singers from the Bay Area that presents concerts in December and May. New members are welcomed in August and January.

Lisa Forkish is an Oakland-based vocalist, composer, arranger, and music educator. She served four years as music director for the University of Oregon’s a cappella group Division and was featured in the best-selling book Pitch Perfect, later made into a hit film of the same name. Lisa studied at the Berklee College of Music in Boston. She is part of the vocal music faculty at Oakland School for the Arts and is also the director of Vocal Rush, OSA’s award-winning a cappella ensemble. Lisa is also a founder of the Women’s A Cappella Association. This is her first season directing DWC. Carolyn Wolf taught elementary vocal music in Lafayette. She currently teaches music lessons privately, is the worship coordinator and accompanist at a church in Walnut Creek, and accompanies two choirs in Rossmoor. She has been involved with local theater companies and has accompanied DWC since August 2015.

Letter to the Editor Shadelands Ranch Pine Meadow and Alhambra Hills

For many Martinez residents, open space and parks are central to our quality of life. Trying to divide our community by pitting our need for more parkland, which Pine Meadow could provide, against the opportunity to acquire Alhambra Hills as a premium open space, serves no one. These sites fill two different needs.

Pine Meadow is a strong site for a park, even if only part of it is secured for public use. It is the last large site available in Martinez. There has not been a new park in Martinez for 20-plus years.

Demands have increased to expand existing park uses and add new uses.

Our general plan update says we need 29 more acres of parkland to accommodate population growth.

The Alhambra Hills encompass the

only land John Muir ever owned outright in Martinez. The land connecting Mt. Wanda to Briones is home to probably the oldest oak tree in Martinez and is jaw-droppingly beautiful open space.

We are a strong community. We invest in our future. We can do both.

There is money in the city budget, including a 2016 surplus of $2.7 million.

Councilmembers have spoken of a possibility of compromise on Pine Meadow.

Groups like Friends of Pine Meadow have found potential state and local grants to help.

We need to stand strong and help our city council see that working to make both a reality is what is best for all of Martinez.

Mark Thomson and Tim Platt

A Historic Preservation

Shadelands Ranch Museum, located at 2660 Ygnacio Valley Road, is a Walnut Creek treasure. Construction on this colonial revival house was started in 1902 and completed in 1903 for Hiram Penniman, one of Walnut Creek’s early settlers, with his wife, Carrie, and daughter, Mary. Much of the furniture and household items on display belonged to the Penniman family.

The house is administered by the Walnut

Creek Historical Society and is open for tours on Wednesdays and Sundays from 1- 4pm. The fee is $3 for adults, $1 for children 6-17, free for children under 6, and free for anyone with a Discover and Go pass available at the Walnut Creek Library. Come for a tour, learn about the origins of the ranch, enjoy the architecture and antiques, and see what life was like in Walnut Creek 115 years ago.

3RD ANNUAL CELEBRATE YOUR COMMUNITY Tuesday, May 16 5:00 to 7:00 pm Pleasant Hill Community Center

We Invite You and a Guest to Our 30 Year Anniversary Party and 2017 Community Grant Awards

PLAN INCLUDES:

TRUST AGREEMENT POUR OVER WILL GUARDIANSHIP TRANSFER OF REAL PROPERTY HEALTH CARE DIRECTIVE

Hosted wine and hors d’oeuvres Hope to see you at the party!

RSVP to info@phcommunityfoundation.org

Local dollars meeting local needs

LAW OFFICES OF

LAUREN SMYKOWSKI

1255 treat blvd. ste 300 walnut creek, ca 94597

www.smykowskilaw.com

ourcommunityfocus.com • may 2017

37

Business Directory Buck Shot & Any Reason

Local Qualit y You Can Trust!

Pleasant Hill

Fun "LIVE" Music from the 50’s thru 80’s For Any Occasion

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Special Shows for Assisted Living, Convalescent Homes & Hospitals

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

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handyman service

Specialized in Home & Commercial Repair RELIABLE & AFFORDABLE • Contractors License #777628 • EPA Certified Renovator www.budgethandymanservices.com Phone: 925.689.1339 • Mobile: 925.577.3025 Robert Angelsberg

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Advertisers

Agent 2000, Derek Knapp Antique Corner Bay Area KidFest Bryce Shumacher, Realtor Buena Vista Swim Club City of Pleasant Hill Cold Stone Creamery Diablo Futbol Club Diablo Valley Oncology Diablo View Veterinary Medical Hospital Dudum Real Estate Group

Ecomulch Ellinwood Exterminators El Tapatio Flaskerud - RE/MAX Accord Grocery Outlet Hagin’s Automotive Hammer’s Heating and A/C Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital Hire My Husband Home Detailers Housekeeping Irvin Deutscher Family YMCA Jack’s Restaurant & Bar Jennifer L. Martin D.D.S.

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REACH 200,000 CUSTOMERS!

John the Painter Julie McCoy – RE/MAX Accord Law Offices of Daniel L. DuRee Law Office of Jeffrey Hall, Inc. Law Offices of Lauren Smykowski Martinez Auto Body Martinez Early Childhood Center, Inc. Matt Rinn – State Farm Insurance Maureen Ingalls - RE/MAX Accord Moulding Company Oasis Veterinary Hospital Parkway Smiles Dental Peony Garden

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CALL TODAY FOR YOUR FREE ESTIMATE - 925-689-9823 38

may 2017 • ourcommunityfocus.com

Pleasant Hill Chamber of Commerce Pleasant Hill Rec & Park Ruth Bancroft Garden Samuels Construction Senior Helpers Shell Western States Federal Credit Union Stokley Property Management Services Susan Wood Photography Walnut Festival Association Walnut Creek Soccer Club Waters Moving and Storage Wence’s Restaurant WiseGirl Ristorante Italiano & Cocktails

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EXPIRES 5/31/17

Make Some Plans may

may 5-7

may 7

may 17

Firecracker 5k

Clay Arts Guild Sale

Like Magic?

Registration is open for the Pleasant Hill July 4th Firecracker 5K Run and Walk school fundraiser. Entry fee is $30 for early bird entries before June 30, and $35 after June 30 and on race day. Register early for the best price at raceroster.com/events/2017/12380/ firecracker-5k.

Shop handmade ceramics, including sculpture, garden decoration, kitchenware, and more! All artists are Clay Arts Guild members or Center for Community Arts instructors. Fri. 5-9pm, Sat. 10am-6pm, Sun. 10am-5pm.

Civic Park Studio, 1365 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek.

Senior Spring Clean Up

may 1

may 6

may 20

Fore! For ARF

Neighborhood Garage Sale #1

Rodgers Ranch Heritage Day

Multiple homes near Northern Pleasant Hill/ Martinez boarder, Morello, Chilpancingo, Elderwood. 8am-2pm. Sponsored by the Laura Wucher Real Estate Team. Call 925-595-8047 or email garagesalebylaura@gmail.com.

Experience life on a farm in the 1800s. Wash laundry in washtubs, churn butter, play oldfashioned games, make simple crafts, attend a “show and tell,” and enjoy cookies and lemonade. 10am-2pm, 315 Cortsen Rd., Pleasant Hill. Rodgersranch.org.

Join ARF for a day on the green and help animals in need at the popular FORE! ARF golf tournament. Noontime shotgun start. Blackhawk Country Club, Danville. FORE! Details at www.arflife.org.

The event is intended to benefit seniors in Pleasant Hill who need help with light landscaping and clean up. Register now to volunteer or sign-up for assistance (PH seniors aged 65 & older) at www.pleasanthillca.org/seniorcleanup or contact Martin Nelis at (925) 671-5229 or mnelis@pleasanthillca.org.

The Society of American Magicians Assembly #112 meets the 3rd Wednesday of each month, 7pm, at Veterans of Foreign Wars, 1919 Wendell Lane, Pleasant Hill. Open to all!

Contact Mark at 510.701.7207.

may 2

may 6

may 13

may 20

Pleasant Hill Garden Study Club

Neighborhood Garage Sale #2

Pleasant Hill Garden Club Plant Sale

Animals on Broadway

Monthly meeting with Michael Marchiano, presenting Attracting Birds. Guests are always welcome and free. PH Community Center, 7pm. 925-323-9314 or www.phgsc.com.

8am – 1pm. Concord Neighborhood of Holbrook Heights and beyond. Pick up a map of all the participating homes at 3207 Reva Dr., Concord at the corner of Reva and N. 6th St. Sponsored by Ryan Keller, Keller Williams Realty

Large, annual sale of plants and garden accessories at the Winslow Center, 2590 Pleasant Hill Rd, PH. For more information call 925323-9314 or visit www.phgsc.com.

may 3

may 6

may 13

may 21

Fresh Ink: New Music

The Man Who Lit Lady Liberty

Big Bag of Books Sale

Wine, Women & Shoes

Author/historian Richard Schwartz talks about his book The Man Who Lit Lady Liberty: The Extraordinary Rise and Fall of Actor M.B. Curtis. Hosted by Martinez and CC Historical Societies. 1–3:30pm, Shell Clubhouse, 1635 Pacheco Blvd., Martinez.

RSVP: mkting@cocohistory.org or (925) 229-1042.

Thousands of gently used books. Fill a grocery sack for $5. Sponsored by Friends of the Martinez Library. Proceeds fund library programs.

11am-4pm. Members admitted at 10am.

Memberships available at the door. Martinez Library, lower level, 740 Court Street.

925.229.1959.

Be there. Be Fabulous. Food, wine, shoe guys and a fashion show. It’s the most popular luxury fundraiser event of the season! Saturday, 2pm - 6pm, Pleasant Hill Community Center. Tickets: winewomenandshoes.com/ event/contracosta.

may 4

may 6 & 7

may 13

may 27 29

White Pony Express

Two Short Plays

Bay Area KidFest

Support White Pony Express during the upcoming East Bay Gives drive on Thursday, May 4. WPE has received the most donations in the last two EBG drives. To donate: www.eastbaygives@eastbaycf.org/whitepony-express.

Eugene O’Neill’s Shell Shock and Rita Creighton Smith’s The Rescue will be seen on a single bill May 6, 8pm, and May 7, 2pm, in the Old Barn at the Eugene O’Neill National Historic Site in Danville. Tickets available beginning April 1 at www.eugeneoneil.org. or call (925) 820-1818.

28th Annual Creek Cleanup

Hear it first at Live! From the Library. An exclusive sneak peek into the making of a newly composed work for cello, “Tangle Eye,” 7-8:30pm. Advanced RSVPs are appreciated and can be made online at www. wclibrary.org/live or at (925) 935-5395.

Downtown Walnut Creek creek cleanup begins with a continental breakfast at 8:45am.

Registration & check-in at 9am. Advanced registration is required and attendance is limited. More details & registration at www. friendsofthecreeks.org.

Join ARF in celebration of the special bond between pets and people at this spectacular, free community festival and fundraising Pet Walk at Broadway Plaza. Walk to save lives - help ARF raise $90,000! Register at www.arflife.org/arf-events/665/animals-onbroadway.

Three days of jam-packed entertainment, activities, food, and fun planned in downtown Concord. All-day ride wristbands, low admission fee and plenty of entertainment and activities free with admission. See page 33 for more information. For more information, visit www.KidFestConcord.com.

ourcommunityfocus.com • may 2017

39

2016 / 2017 CATAGORIES FOOD & DRINK

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Overall Favorite Restaurant

Chiropractor Orthodontist Dentist Salon & Spa Skin Care Gym

Martinez Pleasant Hill Walnut Creek

Burger Spot Martinez Pleasant Hill Walnut Creek

2016/2017

Vote Now!

at www.ourcommunityfocus.com

BBQ Seafood Steak Chinese Mediterranean Japanese Indian Sushi Mexican Thai Italian Ice Cream Frozen Yogurt Bakery Martinez Pleasant Hill Walnut Creek

Pizza

2016 2017 READERS’ LOCAL FAVORITES It’s time to vote for your 2016/2017 LOCAL FAVORITES in dining, shopping, services and more.

Voting begins now and ends MAY 19, 2017.

Please vote in as many categories as possible.

You may only vote once.

Martinez Pleasant Hill Walnut Creek

Breakfast

Handyman Services Contractor Painter Pest Control Fencing Cleaning Services Landscaping

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES Real Estate Martinez Pleasant Hill Walnut Creek

Insurance Martinez Pleasant Hill Walnut Creek

Sandwiches

SENIOR SERVICES Senior Care Services Assisted Living

Martinez Pleasant Hill Walnut Creek

Beer on Tap Martinez Pleasant Hill Walnut Creek

Wine Selection Martinez Pleasant Hill Walnut Creek

Happy Hour Martinez Pleasant Hill Walnut Creek

Sports Bar Martinez Pleasant Hill Walnut Creek

Bartender

Independent Coffee House Martinez Pleasant Hill Walnut Creek Martinez Pleasant Hill Walnut Creek

may 2017 • ourcommunityfocus.com

HOME IMPROVEMENT

Computer Services Photographer

Live Music

40

Dance Studio Martial Arts

Martinez Pleasant Hill Walnut Creek

Martinez Pleasant Hill Walnut Creek

Email info@ourcommunityfocus.com if you have any questions concerning the contest.

Martinez Pleasant Hill Walnut Creek

Martinez Pleasant Hill Walnut Creek

PET SERVICES Pet Sitting Pet Grooming Veterinarian Martinez Pleasant Hill Walnut Creek

AUTOMOTIVE SERVICES Mechanic Martinez Pleasant Hill Walnut Creek

Auto Body

BOUTIQUES & GIFTS Boutique Second-Hand Gifts & Collectibles Independent Market/Grocery