Nov'13focus final

•november 2013

Delivered to Over 40,000 Homes and Businesses

Fall in Sonoma Photo by SusanWoodPhotography.com

• Lets Talk Turkey . ...........................................page 4 • New Garden Angel ..................................... page 19 • Benzie: World Champion .......................... page 20 • High School Homecoming . ...................... page 22

Local Authors . ................................................... page 27 Riding the Rails ................................................. page 33 New Mt Diablo Superintendent ...................... page 37 Business Service Directory . ............................. page 39

Page 2

www.ourcommunityfocus.com

November 2013

FREE!

Pre-Trip Safety Check of Tires, Alignment, Brakes, Struts/Shocks, Battery, Tire Air Pressure

Get your vehicle travel ready with a free

PRE-TRIP SAFETY INSPECTION

AT NO CHARGE WE CHECK YOUR BRAKES, SHOCKS, ALIGNMENT, TIRES, BATTERY, AND SUSPENSION. NO APPOINTMENT NEEDED.

VISIT US: www.lesschwabmartinez.com

Martinez • 3800 Alhambra • 925.370.6382

Family is why we do it all.

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

0907504.1

We all feel the same commitment to care for our families. Helping you meet your insurance needs is part of my commitment to you.

Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there. CALL ME TODAY. ®

State Farm, Home Office, Bloomington, IL

November 2013

www.ourcommunityfocus.com

Celebrate Remembrance

The Hospice of the East Bay invites the public to participate in the annual Tree of Lights ceremonies for both Martinez and Pleasant Hill. For twenty-seven years, the Tree of Lights ceremonies have offered citizens throughout Contra Costa a way to celebrate and memorialize the lives of their friends and loved ones. In addition, the funds raised at all eleven trees throughout Contra Costa County allow Hospice of the East Bay to offer end-oflife care for everyone in the community regardless of insurance status or ability to pay. The ceremonies include music, reading of the memorial names, refreshments, and the magical moment when the Tree is lighted…rain or shine!

Lights can be dedicated for a minimum gift of $25; donors have the option of having their name listed in the tree lighting program for a gift of $100 or more; and tax-deductible tree sponsorships range from $250 to $10,000. Proceeds from Tree of Lights ceremonies benefit the patients and families in our communities under the care of Hospice of the East Bay. Established in 1977, Hospice of the East Bay is a not-for-profit agency that helps people cope with end of life by providing medical, emotional, spiritual, and practical support for patients and families, regardless of their ability to pay. For light purchases, donations, sponsorships and event questions, please call (925) 887-5678 or visit www.MartinezHospiceTree. com or www.PHHospiceTree.com. To learn more, visit www.hospiceeastbay.org.

Page 3

Veterans Day Events

To honor our veterans for service to their country, we invite you to join in Veterans Day ceremonies at various locations throughout Martinez and Pleasant Hill on Monday, November 11.

In Pleasant Hill:

The Contra Costa County Veterans Monument at Boyd Road and Contra Costa Blvd. will be open 10am - 2pm to mark the heroism of local veterans. Questions about the monument’s proud history will be answered and refreshments will be served to the strains of patriotic music. All are welcome to commemorate the service of our veterans.

In Martinez:

We invite you to attend two Veterans Day ceremonies in honor and gratitude of veterans from the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. At 10am there will be a ceremony by the Veterans Commission at the Alhambra Cemetery on Carquinez Scenic Drive.

At 11am there will be a ceremony by the Veterans Commission at the All Veterans Monument at the corner of Alhambra Avenue and Berrellesa Street.

Martinez Tree of Lights This year’s tree lighting will be held on Saturday, November 16, at 5pm at the majestic oak tree located on Morello Avenue, north of Arnold Drive, and will be dedicated to the Kinder Family in memory of Jacob Kinder and John Kinder and in honor of Paula Kinder’s mother Mable Stewart. Join Martinez Mayor Rob Schroder, chamber of commerce members, city council and Martinez residents as the East Bay sky is brightened this holiday season by honoring the lives of loved ones.

Pleasant Hill Tree of Lights The magnificent oak tree located on Gregory Lane near Cleveland Road will be lit on Thursday, November 21, at 5:30pm. The welcomed return of this tree lighting will be in honor of Pleasant Hill Police Officer Robert Eugene Lauderdale. A reception will follow immediately at the Pleasant Hill Teen Center located at 147 Gregory Lane.

Photo by SusanWoodPhotography.com

www.ourcommunityfocus.com

Page 4

JULIE SAYS

November 2013

Let’s Talk Turkey

My brother who lives in Alberta wished me Happy Thanksgiving on Columbus Day this year. No, I reminded him, while Canadians are busy with their birds (or vegetarian/vegan alternatives) on the second Monday in October, Thanksgiving in the United States is not celebrated until the fourth Thursday in November.

These seemingly arbitrary harvestbased dates made me wonder about how the whole Thanksgiving holiday evolved, so I did a bit of research.

Maybe you historian types are already aware of this, but I was disheartened to learn the Pilgrims did not actually wear those quirky black hats with the big buckles. Nor did they necessarily eat turkey at the initial feast with Native Americans. Evidently, there is some sort of proof that the Wampanoag Indians brought five deer to the gathering (sadly, not as guests, but as the main course).

Anyway, before I further spoiled the holiday for myself by uncovering more fallacies, I chose not to delve further into the historical development of Thanksgiving Day. Instead, I decided to write about something only tangentially related -- wild turkeys.

By the growing population of healthy birds in our midst, one would think the wild turkey was native to California. Not so. Those big flocks hanging around our neighborhoods are descendants of wild turkeys introduced to California fifty years ago from Texas and Colorado.

Wild turkeys are omnivores. They eat mostly nuts, fruit, seeds and other plant matter, but occasionally they supplement their diet with insects, salamanders, small reptiles and snails. For a nest, the female turkey scratches a shallow depression, about an inch deep and a foot across, and lays between 4 to 17 eggs. The natural habitat of wild tur-

By Julie Ross keys is open forests with interspersed clearings, but they seem to be doing just fine at the corner of Ridgeview and Cliffside in Pleasant Hill also.

Wild turkeys can run 25 miles per hour (take that, Usain Bolt!) and fly 55 miles per hour. This seems implausible for such a heavy bird, which can weigh up to 20 pounds. I can tell you firsthand, however, how powerful their wings are. As a volunteer in the wildlife hospital at Lindsay Wildlife Museum, I have been challenged with restraining a wild turkey while it is given medicine.

Not so easy holding those wings down!

Only male turkeys make that charming gobbling sound. Females yelp as well as cluck. A wild turkey has a wingspan of four feet or more and has 6,000 feathers. They typically live three or four years in the wild.

Does the name turkey have anything to do with the country Turkey? Why, yes it does, but via a case of mistaken identity. When Europeans encountered wild turkeys in America,

they incorrectly identified the birds as a type of guinea fowl, known as “turkey fowl” because they were imported to Europe through Turkey.

Today’s domestic turkeys are the descendants of those brought by explorers from Mexico to Europe in the 1500s. Later, English colonists introduced domestic turkeys to the United States. Barnyard turkeys are much heavier than wild turkeys and are not so good at running or flying. Farm turkeys can also be distinguished from native wild turkeys by their tail tips. Domestic turkeys generally have white tail tips, like the subspecies that originated in Mexico, while wild turkeys in North America have chestnut brown tips.

Now that you have plenty of fodder for discussion around the holiday dinner table, I will sign off. Have a Happy Thanksgiving!

For advice about living in harmony with wild turkeys, call Lindsay Wildlife Museum. You can reach Julie at julieakross@comcast.net

Independent & Locally Owned

PUBLISHERS Becky Coburn, Jennifer Neys, Elena Hutslar info@ourcommunityfocus.com A Monthly Publication delivered to over 40,000 Homes and Businesses in Pleasant Hill, Martinez, Pacheco, Lafayette and Walnut Creek

ADVERTISING Reba Bower 925-348-1724

Reba@ourcommunityfocus.com SPORTS EDITOR Chuck Nan martinezsportsed@aol.com GRAPHIC DESIGN Trish Heaney COPY EDITOR Alison Clary

View the Focus online: www.ourcommunityfocus.com

CONTACT INFORMATION: Community Calendar:

calendar@ourcommunityfocus.com

Content & General Inquiries:

Member

American Association of Orthodontists

info@ourcommunityfocus.com

6680 Alhambra Ave. Box #132 Martinez, CA 94553 Phone: (925) 335 - NEWS (6397)

MISSION STATEMENT Specialist in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics

Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics

3147 Putnam Blvd.

Pleasant Hill, CA 94523

TELEPHONE 925.933.0435

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.

www.ourcommunityfocus.com

November 2013

PLEASANT HILL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Please verify schedule at www.pleasanthillchamber.com • 925-687-0700

11/26 & 11/27 – 680 Breakfast Club Networking 8:30-10am.

11/1 – Ambassador Meeting 8-9am.

Pleasant Hill City Hall.

11/7 – Business Expo 2013 4-7pm.

Crowne Plaza Hotel, Concord.

CALENDAR SPONSORED BY

11/12, 11/13 & 11/14 – 680 Breakfast Club Networking 8:30-10am.

MARTINEZ CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Please verify schedule at www.martinezchamber.com • 925-228-2345

For More Information Regarding the Ambassador Meeting – If interested in becoming an ambassador, contact us at (925) 228-2345 or email info@martinezchamber.com.

11/7 - Five Chamber Business Expo, Thursday 4-7pm at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, 45 John Glenn Drive, Concord. Free to the public. Call the Martinez Chamber for more information and to reserve your booth.

11/20 – Business Mixer 5-7pm. Chateau III, 175 Cleaveland Rd., PH. 11/21 – Board of Directors Meeting 8-9am. Pleasant Hill City Hall.

11/11 – Office Closed - Veterans Day

11/21 – Hospice of the East Bay Tree Lighting & Reception 5:30pm. PH Teen Center, 147 Gregory Lane.

Hire My Husband

All kinds of Interior and Exterior handyman projects.

• Interior Painting • Quality Home Repair Projects • Handyman Services Contractor Lic. # 943231

www.HireMyHusband.com

925-969-0133 PRESENTED BY:

BUSINESS2013

EXPO

9TH ANNUAL

Page 5

11/16 – Hospice Tree of Lights – Saturday, 5pm, At Morello Avenue, north of Arnold Drive. Join us for the 26th Annual Martinez Tree of Lights Ceremony. The tree lightings throughout Contra Costa County have served the dual roles of comforting members of the community who have incurred a loss as well as raising funds to support Hospice of the East Bay’s services. For more information call the Chamber or Kathy Kavanagh @ 925-887-5678.

11/20 - Chamber Mixer – Wednesday, 5:30 – 7:30pm at The UPS Store, 1155 Arnold Drive, Martinez. Co-hosted with the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Great networking, food, fun, raffle prizes (bring a raffle prize and have your business announced!)

11/28 & 11/29 – Office Closed – Thanksgiving Holiday

CALENDAR SPONSORED BY

WILL FRISBIE

Your Community Payroll and Tax Pro’s 1620 Pacheco, Blvd., Ste B Martinez, CA 94553

www.LA1040.com

ph: 925.330.2982

Rinn Chosen for Board

Matthew Rinn, a local State Farm agent and 2011 Pleasant Hill Business Person of the Year, was selected from a group of twelve applicants to fill the vacancy on the Contra Costa Community College District board through December 2014. Rinn is the chairman of the Pleasant Hill Chamber of Commerce and also serves on both the Irvin Deutscher YMCA Advisory board and the Pleasant Hill Education Commission.

The Contra Costa Community College District includes Diablo Valley College campuses in Pleasant Hill, Brentwood and San Ramon, Los Medanos College and Contra Costa College.

Ribbon Cutting Boston Market - Pleasant Hill

Thursday, November 7, 2013 - 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm Crowne Plaza Hotel, 45 John Glenn Drive, Concord Five Chambers are participating in this huge business expo: Concord, Pleasant Hill, Martinez, Lafayette & Hispanic Chambers of Commerce

For more information, please contact your Chamber of Commerce

Concord: www.concordchamber.com • Martinez: www.martinezchamber.com Hispanic: www.H5C.ORG • Pleasant Hill: www.pleasanthillchamber.com Lafayette: www.lafayettechamber.org

FREE

MAKE GREAT CONTACTS

ADMISSION

NETWORK

WITH LOCAL BUSINESSES

Boston Market celebrated their new Pleasant Hill Chamber membership with a ribbon cutting attended by chamber ambassadors, board members and the mayor of Pleasant Hill. Boston Market serves ribs, chicken, hand carved meats, homestyle sides and desserts for individuals or family style. Feeding a group? They cater too! 2180 Contra Costa Blvd. Hours are Mon-Sat 10:30am-10pm and Sun 11am-9pm.

Page 6

www.ourcommunityfocus.com

Strong Schools Benefit the Community Four of Pleasant Hill’s elementary school principals showed their support for the Foundation for Pleasant Hill Education (FPHE) by dining out at Magoo’s Grill in September. Magoo’s teamed up with FPHE throughout the month of September by donating 50% of food sales when guests brought in their FPHE flyer. All the ladies enjoyed the great salads!

FPHE is now on eScrip! For those unfamiliar with eScrip, every time you shop at an eScrip merchant, like Safeway or Lunardi’s, and use your club card, credit and/or debit card, FPHE earns funding for its school grant program - funds that will directly benefit Pleasant Hill’s public schools. Sign-up is easy! Visit http://www.escrip.com/ to either sign-up for a new account or, if you already have an account, simply add the ‘Foundation for Pleasant Hill Education’. The more people sign up, the more funding FPHE will receive, so please spread the word. It’s a simple act that will have a huge impact!

Since 2009, FPHE has awarded over $157,000 and 187 grants to the eleven public schools within the Col-

PHCF Expands Board Photo and Article by Betty Geishirt Cantrell

lege Park High School feeder pattern.

This year, the foundation awarded 37 grants. FPHE thanks and applauds all 2013 donors for placing a high priority on local education and realizing that strong schools benefit the entire community.

For information visit fphe.org.

The Pleasant Hill Community Foundation is very pleased to welcome five new members to its Board of Directors: Wendy Komori Stager of St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, Aloma Levine of Innovations Day Spa, Giles Miller of the East Bay Community Foundation, Adrianne Roe of Leading Edge Pest Management and Marian Woodard of Rodgers Ranch Urban Farm & Teaching Gardens. These new members bring unique perspectives from the faith-based community, nonprofit community-based organizations and local small businesses.

The Pleasant Hill Community Foundation is an all-volunteer organization that has served Pleasant Hill for the past 26 years. It supports educational, recreational and cultural organizations through grants and fundraising for major projects. It also provides scholarships to College Park High School graduates and stipends to the winners of the Community Plus Award. The Pleasant Hill Community Foundation provides an avenue for donors to support Pleasant Hill by accepting tax-deductible donations. Find out more on our website at www.PHCommunityFoundation.org.

Can You Change Your Luck?

Back row LtoR: Sandy Bruketta, Hidden Valley; and Liz Kim, Strandwood. Bottom row: Marji Calbeck, Valhalla; and Cheryl Kolano, Gregory Gardens.

Run for Education 2013 The 11th Annual Shell/MEF 5K/10K Run for Education on October 6 raised $50,000 for the Martinez Education Foundation (MEF). More than 560 runners and walkers competed in the event, with 63 runners continuing on to the 10K with a route that spun off from the 5K and went up the hills to Carquinez Scenic Drive.

The 5K race began at 8:30am at the corner of Estudillo and Main Street. It turned up Alhambra Avenue, over to Berrellessa, turning on Marina Vista and then back down Escobar and finishing up on Court Street. More than 100 people volunteered to make the event a success, including dozens of

November 2013

students from Martinez Junior High School and Alhambra High School and many Shell refinery workers.

All ages participate in the run, and prizes are awarded for the overall winners as well as for various age groups. The Shell/MEF Run For Education started in the fall of 2003 and has steadily grown every year. Originally a 5K event, in 2012 a 10K course was added to the run. MEF uses the Run proceeds to give grants to Martinez schoolteachers for needed technology and other equipment in classrooms. The Run is the largest annual fundraiser for the Martinez Education Foundation, with Shell the primary sponsor.

The dictionary defines luck as “the force, considered the result of chance, that seems to operate for good or ill in a person’s life.” But is luck really just the “result of chance,” or can we, perchance, take some steps to ensure good luck by doing the following?

Pay attention to your surroundings.

You won’t spot good luck unless you look for it.

Strike up conversations with strangers.

You might meet the love of your life or make an important business contact.

After you meet someone interesting, follow up with a note or phone call.

Stay relaxed, even in a pressured situation; it will help you be more aware.

Vary your routine. Walk on the other side of the street or try a new lunch spot.

Be aggressive about making changes you want. Still thinking about moving across the country? Just go, already!

Follow your hunches and gut feelings.

Many seemingly random occurrences are actually the result of good subconscious

decisions.

Treat nagging doubts as alarm bells.

They’re often right, even if you can’t pinpoint the reason.

Expect good fortune. If you think something’s going to happen, you’ll be more likely to spot it when it does.

Believe in lucky charms. A four-leaf clover doesn’t have special powers, but the confidence it gives you is very powerful.

Smile. People will smile back and, suddenly, you’re off to a good start.

Outlast bad luck. Often a negative turn of events creates unexpected opportunities for good results.

Wishing you a lifetime of good luck!

Start by calling me for your future real estate needs!

Sincerely, “Lucky” Dave Kelley, Broker BRE# 00470111. Your Local Real Estate Expert Since 1973, Realty Executives, Olympic Realtors. Dave@WhatAboutRealEstate.com, 800-881-4282.

PAID ADVERTORIAL

November 2013

www.ourcommunityfocus.com

Page 7

www.ourcommunityfocus.com

Page 8

PLEASANT HILL CITY BUZZ

Mayor’s Message

Michael G. Harris, OD, Mayor, City of Pleasant Hill The Contra Costa County Library celebrated its 100th birthday this summer. And despite what my wife says, there is no truth to the rumor that I was their first patron! But I have been a regular patron for dozens of years. Whether it’s reserving books online, viewing their webpage, or visiting the Pleasant Hill Library in person, I seem to connect to our library on a daily basis.

When I was a kid, I felt really lucky that there was a public library across the street from my school. I could stop there on my way home and browse through hundreds of books, looking for just the right ones to take out. I still remember how proud I felt the first time I showed a librarian my very own library card. Ever since that special day, I’ve always kept my library card in my wallet. I still get a thrill when I walk into the Pleasant Hill Library and use my library card to check out books with the newfangled self-checkout machines.

I love books. I’m an avid reader, and I’ve been writing a book review column for the Community Focus for the past year.

Reading as many books as I do, it just doesn’t “pay” to buy all of them when I can borrow them from the library for free.

When I check my account online, I get excited when I see that a book I reserved is waiting for me at the library.

Going to the library is like exploring

the world without leaving home. I can find books about mysterious places I’ve never been, famous people I’ve never met, and magnificent adventures I’ve never had. Through library books, I get to enjoy all these wonderful experiences and more.

Today’s libraries are more than just book repositories. They are gathering places for the entire community. When I walk into the Pleasant Hill Library and see a group of parents with young children listening to a librarian reading a story, a huge smile comes to my face. What a joy it must be for parents to share these special occasions with their children, knowing that story time will open their young eyes to the wonders of the world.

The programs and the people at the Pleasant Hill Library are truly wonderful and enrich our lives. You can help our library by becoming a member of the Friends of the Pleasant Hill Library. I’m a life member. You can learn more about the great work they do by visiting their website at http://ccclib.org/friends/phl. html.

The City of Pleasant Hill is committed to extending library hours so we all will have more opportunities to visit the Pleasant Hill Library and see what it has to help us grow and learn. Personally, I am committed to exploring all options for building a new library in Pleasant Hill. In the meantime, I hope you will continue to enjoy all that our library currently has to offer. When I look in my wallet, I find many important things, but none is more valuable than my library card.

Public Meetings Architectural Review Commission November 7, 21 Small Community Room, 5pm Contact: 671-5209

Education Commission November 27 Large Community Room, 7pm Contact: 671-5229

City Council November 4, 18 Council Chambers, 7:30pm Contact: 671-5229

Planning Commission November 12, 26 Council Chambers, 7:30pm Contact: 671-5209

Civic Action Commission November 6 Small Community Room, 6:30pm Contact: 671-5229

All meetings take place at City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill.

For Confirmation Visit: www.ci.pleasanthill.ca.us

City Hall Offices Closed on Monday, November 11 in Observance of Veterans Day and November 28 & 29 in Observance of Thanksgiving.

November 2013

Keep It Local

By Kelly Calhoun, Economic Development Manager The month of November is the start of Dollars spent in local businesses have more impact on your community by creating and the busy holiday season. As you begin to sustaining jobs, funding more city services think about and plan your holiday celebrathrough sales tax, and investing in neightions, don’t forget the importance of shopping locally. Pleasant Hill has a wide variety borhood improvements. of retailers and shopping options and plenty • Jobs and Wages – Local businesses create jobs in the community. of restaurants for feeding that pre or post • Entrepreneurship – Supporting local enshopping appetite. trepreneurs fuels America’s economic inno The average consumer, according vation and prosperity. to the National Retail Federation, spends • Environmental Sustainability – Local about $700 during the holiday season.

Making all of your holiday purchases within stores help sustain vibrant, compact and walkable city centers, which is essential for the city can have a profound impact on our reducing automobile use, and air and water local economy and help form a synergy to pollution. create new jobs locally and generate more • Diversity – A market place or city that has economic growth within the community. a variety of diversity of businesses is the best Here is a top ten list for why shopping loway to ensure innovation and stable prices cally benefits the community: over the long term and provide the commu• Protect Local Character and Prosperity – By choosing to shop at local businesses, you nity with a broader range of product offerings. can help maintain a diversity of businesses • Local Food – Local restaurants and stores and create and support local jobs. are more likely to carry locally produced • Community Well-Being – Locally owned and operated businesses build strong neigh- foods, which supports local agriculture.

• Support Local – Local businesses support borhoods by sustaining communities and other local businesses. contributing to more local causes.

• Local Decision Making – Local ownership If you are looking for shopping or dining resources during the holiday season, means people who live in the community visit us on ShopPleasantHill.org and like and feel the impact often make important us on Facebook at ShopPleasantHill. Enjoy decisions locally.

Pleasant Hill this holiday season!

• Keeping Dollars in the Local Economy –

City News Closing the Book on Barnes & Noble

The Barnes & Noble located in the Pleasant Hill Shopping Center on Contra Costa Boulevard is closing. Their lease expires on January 31, 2014, and the store could close for business shortly after the holidays. A new lease has been signed by HomeGoods to occupy the 21,000 square foot space. Jenny Smith, senior leasing agent with Regency Centers, said, “HomeGoods will take possession of the space shortly thereafter, in early February, and begin their tenant improvements. We do not yet have an opening date for them, but I would assume they would be open by the summer.” HomeGoods is a home furnishings store that offers exclusive home fashions, including accent furniture, lamps, rugs, bath and bedding, decorative accessories, children’s furniture, seasonal merchandise, and wall décor. Kelly Calhoun, economic development manager for Pleasant Hill said, “HomeGoods will be a benefit to the city and bring new opportunity to that center and potentially twice the amount of tax revenue of Barnes & Noble.”

Light up the Night in Downtown Pleasant Hill

Join Santa and others in lighting up downtown Pleasant Hill for the holiday season on Wednesday, December 4, 5pm-8pm. Enjoy a holiday crafts fair on Crescent Drive, carriage rides, caroling and Studio A dancers on the plaza stage.

Also, free hot chocolate and cookies, as well as merchant giveaways, will be available for the entire family. For more details, see the ad on back page.

November 2013

www.ourcommunityfocus.com

Page 9

Mayor’s Message

Live theatre will soon return to downtown Martinez. On September 18, the Martinez City Council approved the commencement of nePhoto by Stahlberg gotiations for a sublicense of the Campbell Theatre with Onstage Repertory Theatre.

The agreement, which would run through December 31, 2014, should be ready for final approval in the next few weeks, hopefully, with holiday performances in late November and into December.

The Campbell Theatre, located on Ward Street in downtown Martinez, is a two-story building with approximately 5700 square feet. The city has leased the building from the Bisio family since 2005, and it was the home of the Willows Theatre Company Cabaret up until August of 2012. The former auto parts store and county storage facility underwent extensive remodeling

MARTINEZ CITY BUZZ

Rob Schroder, Mayor of Martinez and renovations. Over $1,000,000 in private acting classes and a variety of K-12 “Young personal property by lenders as collateral, donations went into those renovations and we were legally prohibited from opening the Artist” performances. Onstage is also willinto the construction of their production ing to rent the space to another event holder theatre. facility near the John Muir Amphitheatre in The personal property in the Campbell for special performances beyond their scope Waterfront Park. or expertise. This is an important compoTheatre consisted of various sound, light The theatre opened in 2007 with a nent of the vision for the Campbell Theatre ing, stage and concessionaire equipment. performance of Danny Goggins’ worldThrough months of negotiations and delays, as Martinez is home to many talented artists renowned comedy, Nunsense. For the next that perform at venues downtown. the city recently acquired title to this propfour years, the Campbell Theatre held hun Within six months of renewed operty, and all liens and demands have been dreds of performances and brought thouerations of the Campbell Theatre, the city satisfied. This placed the city in a position sands of people to downtown Martinez. The will evaluate the success and future of live to move forward with a sublicense for the theatre closed in August of 2012, and the theatre in downtown Martinez. There are theatre to a third party manager. After a seWillows declared bankruptcy in November ries of Requests for Proposal (RFP), the city no hard numbers on how many people atof 2012. tended past performances at the Campbell chose Onstage Repertory Theatre.

Although the Campbell Theatre closed Theatre, but if you talk to downtown res Onstage is a non-profit theatre with their doors and the building has been sitting taurateurs, they were packed with people over 35 years of experience and strong ties empty for over a year, the City of Martinez attending the theatre. I am confident that to a number of other local theatre compais still obligated to pay rent through the exattendance for upcoming performances will nies. Onstage envisions directly booking piration of the lease in December 2014. We music, stand-up comedy, business meetings, be strong. had hoped to open the building for other theatre companies and promoters to use for live theatre, comedy, lectures, meetings and City Manager Resigns gatherings. Unfortunately, due to the bank The Martinez City Council met on October 18 in a special closed session ruptcy and liens placed upon the Willows’ to conduct a public employee performance evaluation for City Manager

City News

Philip Vince. Following the closed session, Mayor Rob Schroder announced the city manager, who has held the position since 2008, offered his resignation effective immediately. Assistant City Manager Alan Shear will assume the role of acting city manager. “In the next few weeks the city council will meet in closed session to discuss the possibility of appointing an interim city manager and the process for filling the position permanently,” said Mayor Schroder.

Small Business Saturday

Head to downtown Martinez on Saturday, November 30, and support our community. When you shop at local small businesses, you help our community grow. Together, let’s continue to support the Shop Small ® initiative all year.

Breakfast with Santa

On Sunday, December 8, 8:00am - 11:00am, enjoy a fun-filled holiday breakfast with Santa at the Senior Community Center. Join Santa for pancakes, sausages, scrambled eggs, juice and coffee. Bring a camera because this is sure to be a great photo opportunity. Homemade crafts will be for sale.

Cost: $3.50 Adults, $2.00 for children (10 years and under). Location: Martinez Senior Community Center, 818 Green Street. Call 925-370-8770 for information.

Public Meetings City Council Meeting November 6, 20 6:30-11pm Contact: 925-372-3500

Planning Commission Meeting November 12, 26 7-11pm Contact: 925-372-3500

Design Review Meeting November 13, 27 3-5pm Contact: 925-372-3500

Zoning Administrator Meeting November 6, 20 3-5pm Contact: 925-372-3500

City Offices Closed on Monday, November 11 in Observance of Veterans Day and November 28 & 29 in Observance of Thanksgiving.

All City Meetings at City Hall, 525 Henrietta Street, Unless Otherwise Indicated.

For Confirmation Visit: www.cityofmartinez.org

www.ourcommunityfocus.com

Page 10

November 2013

IN FOCUS•IN FOCUS•IN FOCUS•IN FOCUS•IN FOCUS•IN FOCUs • IN FOCUS•IN FOCUS•IN FOCUS•IN FOCUS•IN FOCUS•IN FOCUS

Paddock Bowl

Paddock Bowl, the hidden gem of Pacheco, has been welcoming bowlers of every age and ability since it opened in August 1952. This twenty-lane house has seen many changes over its sixty-one years as a community fixture, from the filling in of its indoor pool in order to add more lanes, to the addition of its favored Celestial Thunder on Friday and Saturday nights when the bowl comes alive with thunderous music and cosmic lights.

One thing has remained a constant: the friendly and helpful staff of Paddock Bowl make its patrons feel like family.

With staff being almost as longstanding as the building itself, each employee brings their own flavor to the business. Be it a cheery smile or a willingness to help you figure out how

to pick up that dreaded 10 pin, each employee adds to the charm that makes it a family-friendly environment we all crave in this fast-paced world.

Perhaps no one knows the feeling of family at this establishment better than owner Ron Rutherford. He not only met his wife Eunice here, but, on occasion, he can be seen playing on the race cars in the arcade area with his young grandson.

Ron is what makes this place feel so warm, and he’ll welcome long-time patrons with a hug or go down to the lanes to give new bowlers an insider’s perspective on how to roll that perfect strike. So, whether you are looking for a place to hold your next fundraiser, child’s birthday party or, perhaps, your husband’s surprise 50th, remember,

Sell Your Home Without an Agent Martinez, Pleasant Hill, Concord - If you’ve tried selling your home yourself, you know the minute you put the “For Sale by Owner� sign up, the phone started ringing off the hook. Unfortunately, most calls aren’t from prospective buyers, but rather every real estate agent in town, hounding you for your listing.

Like other “For Sale by Owners,� you’ve been subjected to a hundred sales pitches from agents who will tell you how great they are and how you can’t possibly sell your home by yourself.

After all, without the proper information, selling a home isn’t easy. Perhaps you’ve had your home on the market for several months with no offers from qualified buyers. This can be a very frustrating time, and many homeowners have given up their dreams of selling their homes by themselves. But don’t give up until you’ve read a new report

entitled, “Sell Your Own Home,� which has been prepared especially for home sellers like you. You’ll find that selling your home by yourself is entirely possible once you understand the process.

Inside this report, you’ll find ten inside tips to selling your home by yourself, which will help you sell for the best price in the shortest amount of time.

You’ll find out what real estate agents don’t want you to know.

To hear a brief recorded message about how to order your FREE copy of this report, call toll-free 1(800) 5979215 and enter 1236. You can call any time, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Get your free special report NOW to learn how you really can sell your home yourself.

This report is courtesy of East Bay

Residential Realty, BRE 01245396. Not intended to solicit buyers or sellers currently under contract.

Copyright Š 2013

PAID ADVERTORIAL

Paddock Bowl has something for everyone.

Paddock Bowl has youth leagues with certified coaches on every pair and a youth director who just might be a bigger kid than your toddler. There are family style leagues and evening

regulars in addition to outstanding deals like the beloved dollar delight nights and the famous Monte Carlo special. One thing is certain, once you visit Paddock Bowl, no other will compare, and you will find yourself calling this place home.

PADDOCK 5915 PACHECO BLVD. PACHECO

925.685.7812 www.paddockbowl.com

BOWL

JUNIOR LEAGUES For age 8 & under and

CELESTIAL THUNDER

FAMILY BOWLING

BIRTHDAY PARTIES

Live DJ and Blacklights Friday & Saturday 10PM-1AM

9 & over with certified instructors

WINTER LEAGUES

FREE SHOE RENTAL M-F till 6pm for Kids under 18

RESTAURANT • BAR • ARCADE

BUY 2 GAMES GET 1

FREE

Mention you saw this ad in the Community Focus and receive ONE FREE game with the purchase of two games.

MEET LIVE

WILD ANIMALS JUST INCHES AWAY

Go “underground� in our newest exhibit THE BURROW and discover animals that live beneath your feet.

Watch live honey bees at HIVE ALIVE! Learn what jobs they do at our new exhibit HIVE TO HONEY~HONEY BEES AND BEEKEEPERS AT WORK. Cosponsored by Mount Diablo Beekeepers Association

Every visit to Lindsay Wildlife Museum is a new experience 1931 First Avenue, Walnut Creek at Larkey Park t XJMEMJGF NVTFVN PSH t (925) 935-1978 MEDIA SPONSOR

MEDIA SPONSOR FOR THE BURROW

November 2013

www.ourcommunityfocus.com

Page 11

Page 12

www.ourcommunityfocus.com

Incapacity Planning for a Family Member

By Daniel DuRee Transitioning management of Finan Last month, I cial, Personal, and Healthcare deciwrote about using sions a durable power Similar to the trust management of attorney in case succession above, most Durable Powers you someday lose of Attorney and Advance Healthcare dicapacity. But what rectives do not take effect until a person if you have a family member who has an estate plan in place is deemed incapacitated by two doctors.

However, if a family member is slowly but is already starting to lose capacity due to dementia, Alzheimer’s, or simply losing capacity but is presently still old age? With some basic steps, you can competent, they can create an immedismoothly transfer management of finan- ate durable power of attorney and/or advance healthcare directive to transition cial, personal, and healthcare decisions without going through the painful proc- this decision making to another person.

With an immediate durable power of ess of declaring someone incapacitated. attorney, for example, the creator can Transitioning management of a Trust still write checks, file their taxes, etc., but Generally, a person will serve as trustee of their trust until they pass away their agent can also do these things on their behalf. So, instead of management or are declared incompetent by two going from only the principal havseparate doctors. Only at that time will ing authority to only the agent having the successor trustee take control and start managing the trust property. How- authority, there is a smooth transition where both parties have legal authority ever, management can be transferred to manage the principal’s finances. more easily by amending the trust and If the deteriorating capacity of a making the first successor trustee a cotrustee. This way, the original trust crea- loved one is addressed early enough, you can transition management tor can still help manage the property smoothly without having to resort to alongside the co-trustee and eventually declaring the person incapacitated or leave the co-trustee to do most of the going through the painful conservatormanagement. Another benefit to this ship process. is the original trust creator never needs Daniel L. DuRee is a third generato be declared incompetent and may tion resident of Contra Costa County remain a co-trustee until their death. and a licensed attorney practicing in This simplifies tax preparation as well Walnut Creek. He can be reached at because a separate tax return must be (925) 210-1400 or visit www.DuReeLfiled when the creator of the trust is no aw.com. longer a trustee or co-trustee.

November 2013

Real Estate Update

By Nathan Hitchcock ders? Fortunately for my sellers, there are Across the board, still numerous buyers out there who are numbers reflect a slowstrongly committed to winning the biddown in the local real ding war, even if there are fewer players to estate market. Pending defeat. and closed sales are It’s important to note that this slowing both down, and while is not exceptional for this time of year. our inventory of homes People simply are not as interested in buyfor sale has essentially remained flat for ing real estate as the holidays approach. the past couple of months, average and median sales prices, as well as the percent- This time around, though, many prospective buyers are back on the sidelines age of list price received, have all dropped because they are plain fed up with the slightly.

A softening market is not just evident bidding wars. I spoke to one such former in the numbers. Active Realtors out on the prospective buyer last week who expressed great fear over the rapid escalation street can feel the shift too. Open houses in prices, noting that it felt far too familiar this spring were brimming with prospecto the bubble years. tive buyers, literally resulting in standing The real question, however, is what room only in many cases. While this past weekend’s open houses were by no means will the market do come January? Will the ghost towns, in my estimation, the volume drop in competition attract sidelined buyers? They will almost certainly have more of visitors was down by 75%. inventory to tempt them as well. This time We’re also seeing the softening around, we’re carrying a much higher demonstrated in the number of offers received on properties. Recently, I had the level of inventory into the holidays. Active listings are up 33% for single-family fortunate opportunity to list a home for homes and a whopping 87% for attached sale when the home two doors down had homes compared to this time last year. closed escrow two weeks prior. Thanks This increased inventory will likely to the limited number of models in this create a more stable marketplace where particular neighborhood, the home was values increase much more moderately. identical in nearly every way. It was a fanThis more “sane” marketplace, I believe, tastic opportunity to compare the market will indeed foster an environment that is conditions over a two-week timeframe. attractive to these disenfranchised buyers.

Both homes were listed at the same price, and both eventually sold nearly 10% Perhaps the Bay Area will finally then achieve that mysterious “normal” market over asking and within $1,000 of each that has eluded us for so long. other. However, the listing from seven weeks prior received nine offers, while my Nathan Hitchcock can be reached newer listing received only three. Why the at nathan@hitchcockrealty.com or (925) same sales price with two thirds fewer bid- 825-1100.

THE LAW OFFICE OF

DANIEL L. DUREE Estate Planning Attorney

925.210.1400 1535 North Main Street, Suite 240 • Walnut Creek

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

www.DuReeLaw.com

WILLS • TRUSTS • HEALTHCARE DIRECTIVES POWERS OF ATTORNEY • PROBATE

“Nathan was a dream to work with. Very professional, hardworking and easy going. He put our needs before his.”

Joe Resident

WE ARE NOT #1...

AND WE ARE PROUD OF IT. Our goal is not to sell the most homes, it's to get YOU the most for YOUR home.

That comes with quality, not quantity. Call or click today and experience the difference for yourself.

925.825.1100 • www.hitchcockrealty.com

November 2013

www.ourcommunityfocus.com

After-School Program Gains Popularity

The Pleasant Hill Recreation & Park District’s Teen Scene After-School Program has seen its overall membership exceed the total participation for 2012 and daily enrollment has doubled to an average of 44 students per day.

“My children and I really like the bright, open space of the new Teen Center and the friendly staff,” says Noel Emkjer, a mother of two middle school students. “Compared to other day care alternatives, the Teen Scene AfterSchool Program is a step above the rest.”

The district now offers a 10-visit punch card option that enables parents the flexibility to work childcare around their own schedule. In addition, the Teen Scene After-School Program (school dismissal – 6:00pm) has monthly and weekly options for families who need more consistent participation.

After school program offerings include: Something Scrumptious (cooking) or crafts, outdoor fitness and Wii

as well as access to computers, sport equipment, foosball, ping pong, pool and air hockey. The Teen Scene provides enrichment classes and monthly events. The snack shack is available and the district has daily bus transportation from Pleasant Hill Middle and Valley View Middle Schools; students walk from Sequoia Middle School to the Teen Center.

“Every program through the Teen Scene is designed specifically with teenagers in mind,” says Katrina Hunn, teen program supervisor, Pleasant Hill Recreation & Park District. “And I’m confident that the significant increase in the after-school enrollment indicates we are successful in meeting the needs of both our teens and their parents.”

If you have a child in grades 6-12 and would like to sign up or purchase a membership, visit the Pleasant Hill Teen Center at 147 Gregory Lane or visit online: to www.phteenscene.com.

Page 13

Rec and Park Updates News from PHR&PD Celebrate the Holidays at Pleasant Hill Recreation & Park District Venues: Planning a holiday party? Pleasant Hill Recreation has the perfect venue for your next holiday celebration with family, friends and/or co-workers. Contact Ryan Herriman, facilities coordinator, at (925) 798- 8788 Ext. 689 or email rherriman@ pleasanthillrec.com to reserve your space.

New Community Center Grand Opening in January 2014! Watch for more details coming soon. For Community Center bond construction updates, visit pleasanthillrec.com.

Donate to Capital Campaign Fund! Call (925) 882-0896 to offer your support.

New Pleasant Hill Recreation & Park District Website Coming Soon! Visit pleasanthillrec.com at the end of November and be the first to check it out.

PHRec Events November 24 – 38th Annual Turkey Trot (8.4 Mile Run) at Briones Regional Park.

Enter annual race at Briones Regional Park and win a turkey! Pre-register by November 20 and receive a free t-shirt! Go to www.pleasanthillrec.com or call (925) 682-0896.

December 14 – Breakfast with Santa Two Sessions: 8:30 – 9:45am and 10:1511:30am at Senior Center (Chateau Hall) Santa is taking time out of his busy schedule to join you and your family for a morning of holiday cheer, breakfast and live entertainment. Breakfast includes pancakes, sausage and more. Must pre-register

by December 10. Admission per person: $8.50/$7.50 (Dist. Res).

Tots/Youth Activities Add a Little Music to Your Child’s Life With Beginner Music Classes Available Now. The Village Music School offers a wide variety of music programs for children 4-13 years old. Register online at pleasanthillrec.com or call PH Recreation office (925) 682-0896.

Tiles for Teens Support the Pleasant Hill Teen Center. Purchase a brick tile and your name, or that of a family, friends or company name will be forever commemorated at the Pleasant Hill Teen Center. Tiles will be installed on a large planter along the exterior of the Teen Center along the walkway. 4” x 8” Tiles: $100 (up to 30 characters). See the flier and order form or purchase online now at phtc. engravedbricks.com.

Aquatics New Fall Swim Mount Diablo Dolphins Now Registered With USA Swimming and Gets New Logo. Check out the action at pleasanthillrec.com.

Find Your Perfect Christmas Tree! Dolfins Tree Lot Opens November 29 Winslow Center Parking Lot, 2590 Pleasant Hill Road. Support the Dolfins Swim Team to raise important funds for meet operations, equipment and swimmer incentives for the 2014 season.

Get a Jump on the Competition With Winter Swim Clinics High School Pre-Season Clinic (grades 9-12) and Winter Swim Clinic (grades 8 & under) are now open for registration.

Register online at pleasanthillrec.com or call (925) 682-0896.

Page 14

www.ourcommunityfocus.com

Scouting for a Cause

Photo and article submitted by Telzey Gourley hangers on the doors of their neighbors, Sequoia Elementary in Pleasant Hill and come back the following weekend has very active cub scouts in Pack 405.

November 16, 2013 - to pick up the food Throughout the school year and even and take it to a local food bank. If you are summer, these cub scouts keep busy with willing to help, we ask that you place your exciting outings, fundraising and service canned food donation by your mailbox. projects, including selling popcorn, taking In addition, the Cub Scouts will particifield trips, participating in parades, hiking various local trails, and the ever-famous… pate in the Toys for Tots holiday drive in December, during which children and Pinewood Derby.

One of Scouting’s foundational princi- families donate a toy or toys to a needy ples is “doing a good turn daily,” and Scouts child in the community. Please consider giving to this worthy charity during the at all levels participate in good turns and holiday season wherever you see the donaservice projects. One of the most importion barrels. tant upcoming projects is Scouting for Thank you to all the parents who Food. It’s been a project of the Boy Scouts dedicate countless hours to Pack 405. of America for decades. Scouts go out on one weekend - November 9, 2013 - to place Scouting could not be done without you.

Cub scout Pack 405 from L to R: Mason Gourley, Forest Canari, Nick Gutteridge, Jakob Schmidt, Kurtis Enloe and Anthony Cardinale. .

RehabCare Therapy Services, providing outpatient physical therapy and personal training in Pleasant Hill, CA. •We offer therapy services for orthopedic, sports and musculoskeletal dysfunctions as well as post surgical conditions and work related injuries.

•We specialize in geriatric rehabilitation by offering one on one personalized sessions to help restore motion, strength and a greater degree of independence.

•We offer personal training at affordable rates.

•We work with most insurance plans •We handle worker’s compensation

Our primary goal is to help patients return to their highest possible level of function.

399 Taylor Blvd., #208, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523

925.692.1160 • www.rehabcare.com

November 2013

Girl Scout Silver Award

By Marissa St.Marseille, Kelly Crawford, and Julianne Bhak

The Silver Award is the highest award a Girl Scout cadette can earn. A cadette can be a girl from 6th to 8th grade. There is a long process to earn this award, but the final steps include making a difference in the community. As a group of three from Troop 31061 in Pleasant Hill, we decided to work with the elderly at Aegis, a residential living home for elderly people in Pleasant Hill. The residents we worked with have dementia and Alzheimer’s. Dementia is a term used to describe a condition where the brain’s cognitive ability is impaired to the point where the victim’s memory, judgment, language skills and ability to think are severely compromised. Alzheimer’s is an irreversible progressive brain disease that slowly destroys memory, thinking skills, and, eventually, the ability to carry out the simplest tasks of daily living.

Aegis is a facility that has comfortable living for elderly who need assistance.

They provide many different activities such as hand and nail care, painting, ball toss, bingo, etc. We volunteered to spend quality

time with the residents and learned how to adapt and be flexible with people that have dementia and Alzheimer’s. Some days you need to help the residents be active and some days they are very excited and active on their own. We learned how to treat them with respect and adjust to their way of living. Working with the residents is beneficial to them and they really enjoy it. Working at Aegis was a new experience; we learned a lot and we helped a segment of our community.

We hope that our work on this project will bring a new awareness into the community about Alzheimer’s and dementia. We would like people to know about volunteer opportunities at Aegis and the difference you can make in the residents’ lives just by volunteering a few hours a month. Also, if you have a loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s or dementia, or in need of assisted living care, Aegis is in your own backyard.

For more information on volunteer opportunities or resident inquiries please contact Aegis at: 925-939-2700.

www.ourcommunityfocus.com

November 2013

IN FOCUS•IN FOCUS•IN FOCUS•IN FOCUS•IN FOCUS•IN FOCUS

UPS Store Martinez

The UPS Store, owned by Jerry and Marie Knutson, is located on Arnold Drive in Martinez, and has been in business for ten years. It has grown from providing shipping and copies to mailboxes, a full notary staff, and design and extended print services.

“When I bought this store I didn’t know what to expect. There have been some tough times, but we have learned to grow from them. We have learned to adapt to our client’s needs and, many times, we are the firemen when people need problems solved right away. It is definitely hard work owning your own business, but our community has been good to us, so we make time to give back,” said Jerry.

His wife Marie added, “We have been working with the Martinez Chamber since we opened the store, and they have always been very supportive. It gives us the opportunity to meet new customers and find new ways to be involved in our community.”

The UPS Store 272 offers consumers and small businesses a wide range of products and services in one convenient location. Their one-stop-shop of product and services includes: high technology printing and finishing services, including banners and posters, computer rental, faxing, notary services, packag-

ing, shipping, mailboxes and more. They are happy to provide personalized service to individuals, but also are proud to list clients including Oracle, Crowne Plaza, County Connection and GeoNexus.

The store, its owners and their employees won the Business of the Month Award for the Martinez Chamber in 2004, 2006, 2008, 2010, and 2013, and the Small Business of the Year Award from the Hispanic Chamber in 2010. Jerry and Marie are members of the Martinez Chamber of Commerce, Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Martinez Yacht Club, and EPS Industry Alliance (Loose Fill Collection Partner).

“The UPS Store continues to be an outstanding Martinez business with great customer service and is a steadfast community partner,” said former city council member Janet Kennedy. “Their strong commitment to Martinez, both personally and professionally, is something that we need more of in our community!”

The store will be hosting a joint mixer with the Hispanic and Martinez Chambers November 20 at 5:30pm.

Visit www.theupsstorelocal. com/0272 for more information or visit them on Facebook and LinkedIn. Contact Jerry Knutson at (925)372-7662 or store0272@theupsstore.com.

Page 15

Winter Trip Ready?

By the Hagin’s Staff when cold. Drivers in sub-zero driving When the temperature drops, we temperatures should check their owner’s start wearing coats to protect ourselves manual for manufacturer recommendafrom the cold, but most people don’t tions. realize their vehicles also need some Check all fluid levels & condition extra protection during the winter.

- including engine oil, transmission fluDeep down, you know your car should id, transfer case fluid, differential fluids, be checked before hitting the road this power steering fluid, brake fluid, windwinter, but with so many other things shield washer solvent and antifreeze/ to do, some folks put it off. A few quick coolant. steps are all it takes to help your vehicle Check the belts and hoses - belts perform its best this winter. An investcan become cracked, frayed and worn. ment of an hour or so to have your veHoses can crack & leak. These are hicle checked is all it takes to have critical to the proper functioning peace of mind and help avoid the of the electrical system, air concost and stress of a breakdown ditioning, power steering and during your winter road trip. cooling system.

Here is a list of just some of

Check the tires - inthe items you should check cluding tire pressure and before the cold weather tread. Uneven wear sets in or before headindicates a need for ing out on that winter wheel alignment or road trip. possibly suspension Battery - Very repairs. Tires should also be checked for cold temperatures will reduce a vehibulges and bald spots. cle’s battery power, so it’s important to Wipers and lighting - you should keep the connections clean, tight and check the windshield wipers and intecorrosion-free. If your vehicle’s battery rior and exterior lighting before your is more than three years old, it’s wise to winter road trip. have it tested.

In a short amount of time, we can Antifreeze - The mixture of antiidentify how road-ready your vehicle freeze (coolant) and water inside your vehicle’s radiator is typically 50:50. Don’t is and then take steps to have the probmake the mistake of adding full strength lems fixed before you head out for your trip. A few hours of your time is a small antifreeze. Coolant should be drained sacrifice compared to the inconvenience and refilled at least every two years in and potential safety hazards of breaking most vehicles.

Oil - Use the oil your vehicle manu- down away from home. Call Hagin’s Aufacturer recommends in winter, as it will tomotive (925) 228-5115, haginsauto@ haginsauto.com. flow more easily between moving parts

1155-C Arnold Dr., Martinez 925.372.7662 Tel 925.372.6507 Fax store0272@theupsstore.com www.theupsstorelocal.com/0272 Offer valid at this location only

NOW YOU DO Get 10% Off Your Next Vinyl Banner, Gloss Poster or Foam Core Mounting Mention this ad to receive special pricing

Expires November 30, 2013

Call M-F 8am-5pm or scan the QR code below for an appointment

Includes 5 quarts of standard chevron oil Replace oil filter and oil filter gasket Top off under hood fluids Check tire pressure and reset maintenance light Complimentary Visual Vehicle Inspection *Coupon must be presented at service counter and can’t be combined with any other discounts / offers.

www.ourcommunityfocus.com

Page 16

Hit the Ice this Winter

Imagine twinkle lights, stars above, ice below your feet, holiday music & an occasional snowman sighting right in Downtown Walnut Creek! That’s what you’ll find at Walnut Creek on Ice - Walnut Creek’s outdoor skating rink in Civic Park. Walnut Creek on Ice is presented by Raymond James, Walnut Creek Downtown & the Walnut Creek Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau. The rink is open daily November 15 through January 12, 2014. The rink features special events, birthday parties, a skate school, family discount nights & more! Admission is $11 (non-peak) & $15 (peak & holiday) and includes skate rental. For more cool details, visit www. iceskatewalnutcreek.com or call 925.935.SNOW (7669).

November 2013

Holiday Frolic & Snow Park Presents

Downtown Martinez At the Main Street Plaza near Starbucks & BofA

Friday, Dec. 6 1:00pm-9:00pm Saturday, Dec. 7 10:00am-5:00pm Sunday, Dec. 8 10:00am-5:00pm

A Snow Sledding Hill & Iceless Ice Skating!

IceSkating Snow Park Fri., 12/6 1-9 Fri., 12/6 1-9 Sat., 12/7, Sun., 12/8 10-5p Downhill Sled Rides $3.00 each or 4 for $10 or One-day pass $15 For Snow Park only.

A COMMUNITY OF MUSICIANS

GRAND OPENING

SATURDAY NOVEMBER 9 12-5PM

Sat., 12/7, Sun., 12/8 10-5p Downhill Sled Rides

Snow play area for 5 years and under only $3-20 minutes

Skate on the iceless rink with real skates!

Kids $7 • Adults $10 incl. skate rental

Fri., 12/6, 6:30pm On Main St. Plus free jumpers, face painting crafts & more!

Call the city of Martinez for info (925) 372-3510

At the Main St. Plaza Fri., 12/6 12-5 & 7-9 Sat. 12/7 & Sun. 12/8 10am-5pm Santa visit is free.

Professional photos available to purchase.

Parade Holiday Light Parade

Santa!

All kids must be accompanied by an adult for all activities!

Event may cancel without notice due to weather. No refunds.

• New & Used Gear • Half off 1st Month’s Lessons • Special Live Performances

1934 Oak Park Blvd., Pleasant Hill

W-F 3-7, Sat 12-5, (925) 899-6595

For more information contact Main Street Martinez, Inc. (925) 228-3577 or visit www.mainstreetmartinez.org Presented by Sponsored by

www.ourcommunityfocus.com

November 2013

Discover Downtown Martinez www.MainStreetMartinez.org Barrel Aged Restaurant

& Cocktail Lounge Classic Cocktail Lounge and Modern American Comfort Food Restaurant. Offering the finest ingredients and classically crafted cocktails.

AS LOW AS

Featuring Toast to Tuesdays Trivia Wednesdays Sunday Brunch & More

PER MONTH

Happy Hour • Spirit Education Classes • Outdoor Patio Seating • Voted Best Restaurant 2012 • Voted Best Specialty Cocktail Program 2013 • Voted Best Martini 2012

Live Jazz Th, Fri, & Sat

Tue-Thur 11am-12am • Fri-Sat 11am-1am • Sun 10am-10pm 823 Main Street, Martinez, CA • 925-228-7795

www.BarrelAgedbar.com • Find us on Facebook!

EK MONKEY TAP HOUSE

611 Escobar St. Martinez, CA 94553 53 925.228.8787 ph • 925.228.8769 fax ax

WE CATER!

Do you have a big event coming up? p?

Don’t want to cook?

Let CMTH take care of all your catering needs!

We Offer A Variety Of Fresh And Healthy Ingredients, Many Locally Sourced. Snacks Or Full Meals, Pick Up, Drop Off Or Full Service.

Starters • Salads • Sandwiches • Entrees • Desserts For more information call General Manager Kevin Sharp at (925) 250-6904 or Email: Kevin@creekmonkey.com

info@creekmonkey.com • www.CreekMonkey.com

What’s

UP?Martinez

in downtown

Nov. 23 Nov 30 Dec. 6, 7, 8 Dec. 14

By Appt.

Year Round

Earlier Than The Bird Small Business Saturday Holiday Frolic & Snow Park Santa Beer Crawl Downtown Ghost Walk Sunday Farmers Market

Main Street Martinez PO Box 776 Martinez, CA 94553 www.MainStreetMartinez.org (925) 228-3577 facebook.com/downtownmartinez

ANTIQUE CORNER

2 Floors - 20 Dealers Antiques & Collectibles • Vintage and Fun Finds ER TOMTION S U C ECIA R APP DAY! 9 ov.

Sat., N-5pm 10am g on Sale! thin s!

Everyfreshment e R

500 Ferry St. in Historic Downtown Martinez Open Every Day 925-372-9330

Page 17

www.ourcommunityfocus.com

Page 18

CORKS AND FORKS

November 2013

Pair Up With La Sommelierre Maria Terry

Food & Wine Gift Giving II Last year, I offered suggestions for the best wines to give as gifts based on their ability to pair with the most foods.

This year I am providing three homemade food items that are great for gift giving, and I am adding suggestions for wines to pair with them.

The first food gift is a classic breadstick called Parmesan Grissini (recipe on website). In general, salted bread is delicious with any wine: sparkling, rose, red or white. This recipe includes crushed fennel seeds, which add the subtle flavor of black licorice, crushed red pepper to give a kick of spice and, of course, Parmesan cheese. The perfect pairing partner is a buttery Chardonnay. Look for Chardonnays that have undergone malolactic fermentation and are aged in oak barrels. The oak will

complement the low notes of the licorice and the Parmesan will echo the buttery/dairy flavor provided by the lactic acid from the secondary fermentation.

The next food item is Curried Cranberry Snack Mix. Bold curry flavors in this mix require wine that is very fruit forward. Additionally, the flavor of dried cranberries is often found in red wines; it is a smart mix-in.

I also loved the addition of French-fried onions. Fried onions are terrific with wine because they have a sweet/savory quality that brings out the fruit flavor in the wine. Fruit forward varietals like Grenache and Pinot Noir are my first choice pairings, but just about any red wine will be fantastic.

Sweet treats are always welcome and Fleur de Sel Toffee will fill the bill, especially since sweet and salty combi-

Curried Cranberry Snack Mix INGREDIENTS 6 cups Corn Chex 3 cups Rice Chex 1 can (6 ounces) French-fried onions 2 cups miniature pretzels 1 1/2 cups honey-roasted peanuts 1/3 cup butter, cubed 3 tablespoons honey 2 tablespoons honey mustard 1 1/2 teaspoons curry powder 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 1/2 cups dried cranberries, divided DIRECTIONS In a large bowl, combine the first five ingredients. Place the butter, honey,

rry We ca ’s women g in th o cl too!

honey mustard, curry powder and garlic powder in a small microwave-safe bowl.

Microwave, uncovered, on high for 1 to 1 1/2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds or until mixture is smooth. Pour over cereal mixture and toss to coat.

Place half of the mixture in a large microwave-safe bowl. Microwave, uncovered, on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring after each minute. Stir in 3/4 cup cranberries. Immediately spread onto waxed paper; cool completely. Repeat with remaining cereal and cranberries.

Store in an airtight container.

Yield: 4 quarts Boutique Style Consignment Store “Bay Area Parent” Magazine Family Favorite Since 2004!

We Are

PACKED with Winter and Holiday Clothing!

Shop now for best selection!

Tu-Sat 10-6, Sun-Mon 11-5 www.aweechange.com • 925.930.8442

1551 Palos Verdes Mall (near Lunardi’s) Walnut Creek WHEN YOU SPEND

25

Spendings of pre-tax savings cannot combine with other coupons or Comback Bucks. EXP 11/30/13

nations are all the rage. I like the idea of pairing toffee flavors with a little known, fortified wine from the LanguedocRoussillon region called Banyuls. It is made from Grenache grapes and has the flavors of toasted nuts, fig newton, dark chocolate and hints of roasted coffee. It is rich and thick and will echo the caramel flavor of the toffee. As a bonus,

the salt in the toffee will make it more wine friendly as it balances the wine’s high sugar content and tames any rough tannins.

So, go on. Pair Up! Maria Terry is a Certified Sommelier and Wine Educator in the San Francisco Bay Area. www.LaSommelierre.com.

Fleur de Sel Toffee INGREDIENTS Vegetable oil, cooking spray 1 pound (4 sticks) unsalted butter 2 2/3 cups sugar 1/3 cup water 1/4 cup light corn syrup Fleur de sel, for sprinkling DIRECTIONS Coat a rimmed baking sheet with cooking spray. Bring butter, sugar, water and corn syrup to a boil in a large saucepan, whisking frequently until sugar dissolves and butter melts.

Cook, undisturbed, until mixture registers 300 degrees on a candy thermometer--about 12 minutes.

Whisk toffee mixture, then immediately pour onto prepared sheet, tilting pan to spread over entire surface. Let stand for 30 seconds, then sprinkle with fleur de sel. Let cool. (Do not move the pan for first 30 minutes.)

Break toffee into pieces.

Keep covered for up to 1 week.

Yield: 2 Pounds

www.ourcommunityfocus.com

November 2013

Page 19

New Garden Angel, Lisa Meyers

By Lesley Stiles ness grows. As we traverse the cool season, Gently slice off the top, scoop out seeds we look forward to a stunning winter garand save them to sprinkle with salty olive den overflowing with kale, broccoli, spinoil and roast for crunchy tidbits alongside ach, cauliflower and much more. nibbles at the Thanksgiving gorge. Create Tramping through pumpkin farms a layered casserole inside the pumpkin by and farmers’ markets always induces juicy throwing sliced zucchini, chopped onion, imaginative ideas for cookies, pies, cakes grated Parmesan and cooked spinach into and savory dishes. Especially charmthe cleaned pumpkin. Top off with eggs ing are those divinely inspired Cinderella beaten with cream and seasoned with salt pumpkins. Deep red and magenta to an and pepper. Put the top back and place almost make-believe orange, the Rouge on baking sheet in 350* oven for about an Vif d’Etampes looks like something out hour until the egg mixture has set. of a fairytale. Also known as a Cinderella Use the rich flesh for pie, cookies and pumpkin, owing to the resemblance of a breads by cutting off the top, slicing in half famous getaway coach, this French heirand scooping out seeds. Place in a baking loom cucurbit makes for excellent, longdish with a ½ inch of water, cover and bake lasting décor. Legend has it that the Pilat 350* until soft. Puree or mash and use grims may have cultivated this variety and according to your recipe. You will likely served it at the second Thanksgiving dinhave several recipes worth of pumpkin puner. Don’t be captivated by her squashed, ree from just one pumpkin, so I measure deeply ribbed good looks alone though, as it out according to recipes and freeze it in the molten orange flesh is creamy sweet, batches for later culinary tricks and treats. beckoning to be a pie filling as much as a Add chocolate chips atop any pumpkin savory treat. cookie or bread recipe for a surprisingly addictive sweet. My motto: Two for décor and one to eat now. You will never buy a Homemade Ravioli since 1925 can of pumpkin again.

We have been greatly blessed with ridiculously gorgeous days and chilly eveHOMEMADE MEALS - JUST HEAT & EAT nings in our valley as the season changes Come and Visit our Production Line and see Ravioli Made the Old-Fashioned Way and local flora and fauna in neighboring yards don sunset colors day and night, Ravioli Flavors with leaves turning crazy hues of almost Beef • Chicken • Spicy Chicken • Cheese unnatural reds and ghoulish oranges. This Cheese & Basil • Seafood • Butternut Squash Vegetarian • Portabella Mushroom • Sweet Potato

College Park Organic Garden and Diablo Day Community School Organic Garden both have a new garden angel by the name of Lisa Meyers. Her company, Meyers Homegrown Organics, has been selling vegetable seedlings and plants at the Pleasant Hill Farmers’ Market all summer, and as her season nears a successful end, she has donated a huge amount of winter vegetable seedlings to our gardens for the students to plant, coaxing a long and fruitful winter crop from a living gift. Lisa and her husband Phil live in Pleasant Hill, but Lisa is a Martinez native herself. Lisa and Phil’s inspired gift is the definition of fullfledged community involvement in the gardens and have put an apple-cheeked rosy glow on all of our students’ faces. We are immeasurably grateful and will surely support Meyers Organics in the future. We wish them a fruitful season as their busi-

MOLINO’S RAVIOLI FACTORY

Sauces • Cannelloni • Lasagna • Fresh Pasta Poleta Pie • Soup • Potato Gnocchi • Large & Small Ravioli • And Much More

Large or Small

www.MolinosRavioli.net

32 79

HOLIDAY DINNER Starting at 95 * Turkey and four sides!

Grayson Rd.

17

Homemade Ravioli 50 * Dinner-To-Go A 22.50 Value!

Incl. your choice of small beef/cheese box of Ravioli, pint of sauce, and 1/2 loaf of garlic bread

Gregory Ln. Pleasant Hill Road

15% OFF Special Events

2150 Pleasant Hill Rd. Pleasant Hill, CA 925-934-7075

Taylor Blvd.

CATERING Available

Boyd Rd.

Molino’s Ravioli

50 *

Whole Roasted Garlic Crab

with Garlic Noodles & Mushrooms and Half loaf Garlic Bread!

2 OFF 00 *

PLUS FREE 1/2 LOAF GARLIC BREAD A 3.45 Value!

With any purchase of $20 or More

* With coupon. One coupon per day. Not valid with any other offer. Does not incl. tax. Expires 12/31/13

THE GARDEN

time of year is always challenging for adults to resist the urge to steal candy from wee ones who are amped into complete sugar induced joyfulness and almost unhinged in the belief that they won’t notice a few missing peanut butter cups. Hope everyone was a little naughty and sated that annual gig.

As our craze-inducing season creeps up and stalks us with holiday décor before Thanksgiving menus even hit the planning stage, consider the fact that a good hike in the hills around us can induce an amazing endorphin created narcotic haze as well as a good yoga class can. So while you are gearing up for the frenzy, take time to heal in and out and enjoy the amazing valley we call home.

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.

Homemade Peanut Butter Cups Makes around 4 Dozen

Ingredients:

1 cup creamy unsalted peanut butter 4 tablespoons unsalted butter ½ cup turbinado sugar or brown sugar ½ cup powdered sugar

Directions:

2 teaspoons coarse sea salt 32 ounces high-quality dark chocolate or chocolate chips

Mix together peanut butter, butter, sugars, and salt in a bowl. Taste, then add more salt if needed.

Roughly chop chocolate and melt it in a double boiler or in microwave. Arrange mini cupcake wrappers on a baking sheet. Pour just enough chocolate in to fill the bottom of the wrapper about 1/8 of an inch. Let set in fridge for 10 minutes. While the chocolate is chilling, begin shaping heaping teaspoons of peanut butter and sugar filling into flattened balls that will fit into mini cupcake wrappers on top of chocolate. Remove chocolate from the fridge and pop a ball into each one. Reheat remaining chocolate and pour into cupcake wrappers to cover the balls. Sprinkle the tops with a little extra coarse sea salt if you like and let set in fridge at least 20 minutes. Remove and pack into airtight containers, or devour all you can in the next hour and give the rest to friends and family.

Page 20

HOME TEAM Stephenson: MVP The October edition of Baseball America named Martinez resident Robert Stephenson the Reds’ most valuable minor league pitcher in their system. In 2013, missing a month with an injury did little to slow down the right-hander. The Reds’ 2011 first-round pick started the 2013 season where he finished 2012, Class-A (Low) Dayton.

The injury kept him out of the Midwest League All-Star Game, but that was all that could slow him down. Stephenson, 20, was 5-3 with a 2.57 ERA in 14 starts, strikingout 96 and walking 20 in 77 innings.

Stephenson made four starts at High Class-A Bakersfield, striking-out 22 and walking just two with a 3.05 ERA in 21 innings. He then moved-up and made four starts at Double-A Pensacola, struggled with his command, but still fanned 18 in 17 innings.

www.ourcommunityfocus.com

November 2013

Season Ticket

By Chuck Nan of the Jacksons. Salido also had a rushing Oxnard, Ca. in October to contend for the CP: Off to Strong Start touchdown.

National PAL Boxing title versus competi The College Park (CP) varsity football The Falcons earned their first league tors from across the country. Cordon fights team (5-2-1), coached by Bill Kepler, is off win over Mt. Diablo, 47-7.

In all, CP out of the Old School Boxing Gym in to a strong start for the 2013 season. With a amassed 502 yards rushing with Ray Concord. tie and two losses as blemishes in their first Jackson, Sprung and Salido all breaking the Cordon earned his title in early Octoseven games, the Falcons offense has been triple-digit threshold, combining for 405 ber as he beat Victor Rodriguez of Nampa, strong throughout three non-league wins yards and five scores among the trio.

Idaho, in his semi-final bout. He then went and two DVAL victories over area oppo CP enjoyed a homecoming game vicon to defeat Jamirr Arthur from Atlantic nents. tory vs Concord Minutemen October 25, City, New Jersey. Cordon was king of the In early-September, Ray Jackson and 35-26. Scoring touchdowns were Salido, Ray ring in the 13/14-year-old 95-pound diviTimmy Jackson (no relation) helped CP Jackson(2), Timmy Jackson and Sprung. sion. With his win, Cordon earned the right come from behind to defeat Dougherty ValJohnsonbaugh kicked 5 PAT’ s . to head to the Northern California Silver ley, 21-10. Ray made two scores and Timmy Alhambra Student is Ring Champ Gloves Boxing Championships, held in checked-in with one.

American Canyon.

Alhambra High School freshman Later in the month, Ray Jackson scored Angel Cordon is now the town’s latest boxtwo touchdowns as the Falcons triumphed ing champion. The 14-year-old traveled to over Pinole Valley on the road, 27-14. Timmy Jackson and Trevor Sprung each scored once. The next week, the school notched their third win as they tamed Hayward. 3220. Quarterback Dimitri Salido was 6-of-7

Diablo Futbol Club’s 13U girls Arsenal team made posters for East Bay firefighters and visited their firehouses to thank them for all their hard work putting passing with two touchdowns, one to each

Benzie: World Champion

By Chuck Nan Harry Benzie, a resident games), Benzie sported a of Martinez, and his San .588 batting average with Francisco Seals 75-and-older four home runs and 39 RBIs. men’s softball team have won Overall, the team fashyet another title. Benzie and ioned a 61-23 record. In the his teammates just returned championship tournament, from Las Vegas, where they Benzie was 7-for-12 (.583) were crowned the 2013 Major with seven RBIs. World Champions. The club

Benzie helped the finished with a 7-1 record in Seals average nearly 20 runs the tournament. per game. In tournament play, Benzie Benzie has played on several chamwas dominant when it counted as he pionship teams over the past 15-plus batted .600 and hit three of his four years of his career. For the season (37 home runs of the year. Congratulations.

Arsenal Gives Back

out the Mt. Diablo blaze and keeping surrounding neighborhoods safe.

Sundays 9:00 & 11:00 a.m.

LOPC.org

Programs for Kids 6-mos. through 12th grade LAFAYETTE-ORINDA PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH Where everyone is welcome, nobody is perfect and anything is possible with God.

November 2013

www.ourcommunityfocus.com

Page 21

HOME TEAM

Honest & Reliable

Heritage Hot Shotz

Heritage Hot Shotz (U10 Girls) won their first tournament at the Dublin Fall Classic in September. Led by Coach Matt Kendall and Asst. Coach Cecil Desouza, the girls went into the championship game fired up and ready to go.

The team brought their “A” game to the field and played well together. It was a tough game, but they came out victorious after two overtimes and PKs. The Hot Shotz were the first ones to step on the field at 7am on Saturday and the last ones to leave at 7pm on Sunday evening. “Tired and happy” described the mood of the girls, coaches and parents.

SALES • INSTALL • SERVICE FREE ESTIMATES ON ALL EQUIPMENT INSTALLATION

Call us for all of your heating & cooling needs.

• ALL MAKES & MODELS • ALWAYS PROMPT & RELIABLE Please Contact Mike Hammer • Owner & Operator

877- 586-8302 925-229-2779

www.HammersHeatingandAC.com Providing Superior Services throughout the East Bay for over 20 years Lic.# 672344

LtoR Top: Coach Matt Kendall, Kaela Standish, Grace Ciabattari, Sofia Sosa, Daniela Perez, Kyley Davis, Victoria Diaz and Asst. Coach Cecil DeSouza.

Bottom: Jamie Ellman, Belle DeSouza, Caitlynn Turner, Kaila Murillo and Lily De La Torre.

Bulldogs Take First Photo and Article Submitted by Lisa Hollidge

A BAY AREA FAVORITE SINCE 1946

ORDER YOUR HOLIDAY

TURKEY OR PRIME RIB TODAY Catering available for pick-up, delivery or on-site • Holiday Parties • Business Luncheons • Corporate Events Martinez 536 Center Ave 925-957-1400 Pleasant Hill, 2227 Morello Ave, 925-798-2333 Concord, 1776 Arnold Industrial Way, 925-825-2333 Walnut Creek, 1293 Parkside Dr, 925-952-9000 Walnut Creek, 1831 Ygnacio Valley Rd. 925-952-9393

www.kindersbbq.com

Alhambra’s Lady Bulldogs take home the first place trophy from the Freedom High School Water Polo tournament September 27 and 28. They beat Marin Academy 12 to 6, Pinole Valley 18 to 1 and Newark Memorial 16 to 7.

They took first place at the Pinole Valley tournament in October as well.

Page 22

www.ourcommunityfocus.com

November 2013

College Park and Alhambra Homecoming 2013

College Park Homecoming Court: Freshman Lady Emily Egbert, Sophomore Duchess Breanna Eales, Junior Princess Lauren Canale, Seniors Sara Beth Maney, Jamie Merjano, Kristen Tabone, Brianna Vassar, Queen Tayler Hopkins, King Trevor Sprung (father pictured), Brandon Hutslar, Kevin Neys, Saya Santos, Timmy Jackson (not pictured), Junior Prince Barune Thapa, Sophomore Duke Raymond Muhlenkamp and Freshman Lord Forrest Steele. Photo: TodGomes.com

Falcon Ray Jackson ready to score. Photo by TodGomes.com

College Park crowd goes wild. Photo by TodGomes.com

Alhambra’s King-Dylan O’Shea & Queen- Hailey Ferrer. Photo by AHS senior, Nicole Thayer. Court nominees: Candy Bennett, Carly Bergerhouse, Alicia Cauthen, Jenna Shikuzawa, Camille Woerner, Molly Woerner, Marena Yarnell, Harits Abdurrohman, Josh Armosino, Michael Bull, Abel Calderon, Monte Cabrera, Dalton Dollar, Calvin Roth, Jarod Tiangsing and Danny Yoeono. Pictured are nominees Sabrina Schulhauser and Ellen Randall with Mikaela Walsh. Photo by Steve Schulhauser.

Junior Girls LtoR: Hannah Hatch, Mia Dirito & Caitlyn Doolittle. Photos by Carmina Regner

Sophomore Boys LtoR: Savion Prieto, Matthew Regner & Juman Purewall. Photo bombed by Matthew Beck

November 2013

www.ourcommunityfocus.com

Arsenic and Old Lace Come see another amazing production by the brilliant thespians of College Park High School as they perform the classic comedy Arsenic and Old Lace

by Joseph Kesselring. This play features Dean Engle as Mortimer Brewster, EmCOLLEGE PARK HIGH SCHOOL PRESENTS

ARSENIC &

OLD LACE

ily Dow as Aunt Abby, Dakota Bragato as Aunt Martha, Becca Kefer as Elaine Harper, David Dean as Jonathan Brewster and Caz Aquino as Dr. Einstien.

The Brewster sisters, Abby and Martha, are the kindest and most generous old ladies in Brooklyn. Their father left them set for life and there isn’t a charity they haven’t donated to. They dote on their nephew Mortimer, a reluctant drama critic, who’s just become engaged to Elaine, the adorable girl next door.

They all think they have the perfect life until a ghastly secret is revealed and they receive a rather unwelcome visitor. Is this night like every other? I think not.

The play will be performed at College Park High School on Nov. 7 & 8 at 7pm, Nov. 13 at 4pm, and Nov. 14, 15 & 16 at 7pm. Tickets are $5 for students, $7 for senior citizens and $10 general admission. Buy tickets on line at http://intouch. mdusd.org and at the door.

College Park News Sophomores Take PSAT for Free

On October 16, approximately 462 College Park sophomores took the PSAT test free of charge. For the first time, the Mt. Diablo Unified School District provided all sophomores the opportunity to take this test without paying. The district wrote a grant in conjunction with the College Board and news of the funding came in September. Due to the large amount of students who took the test last month—733 students, including freshman and juniors—the high school went to a special testing schedule that day.

College Park staff proctored the 3-hour test in classrooms, and students who did not take the test were instructed to arrive at 11am. “It’s a great thing for kids and parents. It’s going to give us a lot of valuable data for our 10th graders and it will give parents some guidance as to what their child has the aptitude for— whether they do well in STEM classes or if they have an aptitude to take a particular AP test—it’s another tool that can be used to decide what pathway your child is to travel through College Park,” said Principal Paul Gengler.

Taking the PSAT test prepares students for the SAT and ACT tests in their junior and senior years. The PSAT test also identifies students likely to succeed in AP courses and encourage those students who might not otherwise have thought of taking AP courses.

Be an Organic Garden Guardian

Established in 2006 by parents Lesley Stiles and Stephanie Jacob, the College Park organic garden is a hidden treasure on campus. The garden is tucked into the southwest corner of the school behind E wing and has grown abundant amounts of everything, from peas and tomatoes to lettuce and lavender over the seasons.

The produce harvested from this state-certified garden is used in the school cafeteria, in classrooms, and in special “Cooking in the Quad” demonstrations at lunchtime.

But the garden needs your help! We are looking for a garden coordinator who can act as a liaison between Lesley and Stephanie (now graduated parent-alums!) and the PTSA and school community to ensure that the garden remains a vital part of the College Park experience. If you are interested or would just like more information, please contact Lesley Stiles at lesleystiles@comcast. net or Stephanie Jacob at stephaniejacobharrigan@gmail.com.

Page 23

HIGH SCHOOL HAPPENINGS

Service Projects at AHS

The Alhambra High School student leadership is asking the community to help with two of their service projects during the holidays.

The “Mitten Project” (adopt a family) provides gifts for a family/child during the holiday season. Families, individuals, even clubs and sports teams can “adopt a family” and help. Presents, preferably gift wrapped, can be dropped off at the school by Tuesday, December 10. You can also donate a gift card so leadership students can shop for the gifts. The Canned Food Drive helps with a holiday meal for local families in our community. Drop off cans of green beans or canned corn to the main office by December 10. Sign up to participate in one or both projects by going to the Alhambra High School webpage at http://ahs-martinez-ca.schoolloop.com and click on “Mitten Project Sign Up” under Announcements on the right hand side.

Alhambra Leadership teacher Marianne Griffin, along with Bonnie Anderson, coordinator at the First Baptist Church on Alhambra Avenue, have worked together for years coordinating the canned food drive and “Mitten Project” between Alhambra student leadership and the church. “These are opportunities for any members of our community. Student leadership helps coordinate and gets the classroom/student groups involved in raising money and getting gifts and/or cans. It is a really great partnership!” said Griffin. For questions about the programs, contact Mrs. Griffin at mgriffin@martinez.k12.ca.us.

Helping CP Families

The College Park PTSA has created a simple way to give back to the community through their year-round outreach program. However, there are many College Park families who are in need of some extra help this holiday season, and the PTSA would like to provide each of these families with a gift card to TARGET to assist in making their holiday special.

“The gift cards are used for basics like groceries and shoes, and some students are excited to purchase a gift for their parent. Last year we had a check come in from a family who had received help from us previously. There was a letter expressing their gratitude and explaining they were in a position to help others now. That was a great moment for this program,” said PTSA’s Community Outreach Committee Chair Susie Johnson. In the past, the PTSA was able to give at least $100 gift cards, but last year, that was cut in half due to lack of donations and increasing numbers of kids in need. All the students’ names are kept confidential.

If you would like to contribute to this worthwhile program, donating online through the PTSA webstore is easiest. Select this link [http://collegeparkptsa.revtrak.net/tek9.asp] and click on Donations. All donations are tax deductible and the deadline for holiday assistance this year is Friday, December 13.

If you would like to send a check, make it payable to CPHS/PTSA, write “Outreach” on the memo line, and mail to: College Park PTSA “Outreach,” 201 Viking Drive, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523.

Career Night at CP

CP students and parents, join four to six industry professionals at a career night focused on Engineering, Manufacturing, Architecture and Construction. They will also share advice on the types of classes and work-based experiences (like internships) students should engage in now to better prepare for college and career opportunities.

Wednesday, Nov. 20, 6:30-8pm, Multi-use room at CPHS. Organized by the Pleasant Hill Education Initiative.

www.ourcommunityfocus.com

Page 24

Have a great Thanksgiving!

510 Over 51 0*reasons to choose the Flaskerud Team, Don, Norma and Erik, as YOUR Realtor! *The number of homes they have sold in PLEASANT HILL ALONE!!

For details on the current value of your home, contact the Flaskerud Team at 925-676-5859.

Call Pleasant Hill’s

1 Realtor

#

for ALL your Real Estate needs

Don & Norma Flaskerud Erik Flaskerud

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

Don and Norma’s listings...

All listings are in Pleasant Hill.

925-676-5859

113 Poshard St (coming soon!)

127 Hardy Cr – $599,00 94 Sylvia Dr – $539,000 1590 Terry Way – $529,000 740 Camelback – $540,000 255 MacGregor Rd – $799,000

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

OUTLET PRICES for sofas, mattresses and all furniture!

• We sell a Macy’s brand and Ashley Furniture among others.

• We deliver everyday of the week and its free!

• $75 off every sofa and mattress if you mention this ad!

• We also can take away your old sofa or sectional.

Locally owned and a family small business. We Make Deals!

925 370-7636 742 Arnold Drive, Martinez

742 Arnold Drive, Martinez www.martinezfurniture.com

November 2013

IN FOCUS•IN FOCUS•IN FOCUS•IN FOCUS•IN FOCUS•IN FOCUS

Have You Met the New Neighbors?

Astound (www.astound.net), a residential and business-class broadband services company offering stateof- the-art digital video, high-speed internet, phone and fiber services, announced the company has extended its fiber-optic network to Martinez and is now offering services in most areas after months of construction.

Construction will continue through December.

Astound says they are thrilled to have moved into the neighborhood to offer cable and broadband services to Martinez. When asked what makes Astound different from big national companies that service Martinez, Astound Bay Area Vice President of Operations Doug Schulz replied, “Reliability; not just in the quality services we deliver to our customers, like ultra-fast internet that only Fiber-tothe-Home can deliver, but the way we treat our customers.” Schulz went on to say, “Martinez residents and businesses are fortunate to have a choice in providers, but having the ability to choose a provider that has some of the highest customer satisfaction scores in the industry is simply awesome!”

Astound is a local company that is committed to delivering the best entertainment at the best price, and, most importantly, with the best local service and customer care.

Astound cautions Martinez residents that current providers probably aren’t happy that Astound is now available in Martinez and may try to lock customers in a contract to prevent them from trying Astound’s award-winning service. Doug Schulz was happy to add, “That’s what makes competition so great; consumers have a choice, and the company that provides the best service and customer care earns customer trust and their business.”

Astound welcomes Martinez residents and businesses to try their riskfree, 30-day, money-back guarantee to see what a difference it makes to do business with a local company that cares. CALL 877.993.7051.

With years of remodels behind us we look forward to helping you make your house the home you've always wanted.

SAMUELS CONSTRUCTION ALL PHASES OF CONSTRUCTION PLANS AVAILABLE Kitchens • Bath Remodeling Tile • Cultured Marble Granite • Additions Windows • Doors Concrete • Foundations Driveways • Patios • Fences General Contractor Lic#652185

samcon60@gmail.com • 925.260.4448 313 Gloria Drive, Pleasant Hill

MEMBER

November 2013

www.ourcommunityfocus.com

Page 25

AT LAST.

That moment when you realize you can ditch your cable, internet and phone provider for one that will make you happy–it is here. Oh, how good it feels to have a choice. Astound is in the neighborhood, which means you may already have a local choice, a friendly choice, and a better choice than what you have now. So jump for joy, run around the block, high-five the neighbors, because you’ve got a choice to connect happily.

MORE SMILES NOW IN MARTINEZ!

Don’t lock yourself in to so-so service when you can get happy with Astound.

A better choice choice has just moved into the neighborhood.

Sign up today for priority installation.

1-877-993-7051 | astound.net

Page 26

www.ourcommunityfocus.com

November 2013

In the Mix One Thursday night last October, I ventured down to Open Mic Night at Roxx on Main in Martinez, a hidden gem that features small plates of excellent food and great wine. Open mic nights provide an opportunity for anyone to get on stage for 15 minutes to perform in front of a live audience. These shows have been gaining popularity and give singer-songwriters, poets, musicians and vocalists an outlet to work on their craft. There is no telling who might walk in - could be a professional musician trying out some new material or high school kids playing in front of their first live audience.

Roxx on Main owner, Roxanne Cole, had a vision for a unique restaurant, but she also had a passion for music. She enlisted Mike Spinelli (an employee) and his music partner Jill Collard, to host the open mics.

“There are so many stories that come along with open mic nights,” Roxanne says.

“There are people scared to death to get up, but our welcoming crowd gives support.

The common theme is ‘everyone’s welcome.’

I’ve had people that have never been able to sing live, and now they are over the top.”

Local musician and current host Chris Bryant, added, “the variety!” is what makes the nights so special. “Just in the last month, I’ve had classical, rap, blues, soul, solo ukulele, accordion, just about everything. That’s what makes it fun.”

Singer-songwriter Angelique Kellogg concurs. “It’s a fantastic crowd of open-

Dallimonti’s

By Paul Cotruvo, Cover2Cover minded musicians and something different have the friendliest staff, including the won- goes to 10pm. If you plan on coming down for everybody. And it’s a family friendly derful Alyssa Rose, who was, unfortunately, to perform, this has turned into a very environment, which encompasses what popular event, so you should show up about too busy working to give me a quote, but Martinez is all about.” Another singer-song20 minutes early and sign up. I want to wish will always treat you like one of the family. writer, Mark Jeffrey Davison goes for the everyone a Happy Thanksgiving! Now go I have been a musician for forty years excellent food and wonderful musicianship, out there and support live music! now, and started out in a place just like claiming, “The sound in this place in unQuote of the month: this. There are no TV sets on the wall, no comparable. You cannot get a better sound As we express our gratitude, we must never attitudes, just a great atmosphere of people in the Bay Area; that’s why I’m here!” forget that the highest appreciation is not to getting together for a good time around The musicians support each other here, utter words, but to live by them. music. not only in kindred spirits, but musically.

- John Fitzgerald Kennedy Open Mic Night begins at 7pm and What might start as a single, can end as a five-piece band. Harp player Jay Olson noted, “The level of musicians is always November 2: Jim Caroompas & The Sisters of Mercy, Roxx on Main, 627 Main St, Martinez, 7pm good. Besides the fact that you get your 15 November 2: Fleetwood Mask, Lafayette Town Hall, 3535 School Street, Lafayette, 8:00pm minutes, people interact with each other.

November 2: The Big Jangle, Dallimonti’s, 1932 Oak Park Blvd., Pleasant Hill, 9:30pm That’s the big thing; musicians playing with November 3: Hopeless Romantics, Armando’s, 707 Marina Vista, Martinez, 4:00pm each other.” Bassist Bruce Holloway agrees, November 14: Frankie G. & The Conviction, Armando’s, 707 Marina Vista, Martinez, 8:00pm November 14: Lumberyard, Round Up, 3553 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette, 9:00pm “It’s a nice atmosphere for improvisation.”

November 21: The Smokin J’s, Round Up, 3553 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette, 9:00pm An exciting aspect of the open mic November 24: MSTV, Armando’s, 707 Marina Vista, Martinez, 4:00pm night is that one act is picked each week to be the “spotlight,” and gets a full half hour to play. On this particular night, Terry Miles was the spotlight. “I love coming here because I’ve always wanted to play in an open forum like this,” he said. “I thought, man, BREAKFAST & LUNCH this is cool... just fell in love with the place.

Love the people and the atmosphere. It’s a second family to me. It’s my little escape.”

Any fear of being the featured artist, I won2 Eggs with your choice of 1/2 waffle or 2 flapjacks, dered? “You always want to do your very Country Cookin’ at its and 2 strips of bacon Old Fashioned Best best and fear making a mistake, but we’re all or 2 sausage links or 1/2 ham PLEASANT HILL friends here, so nothing to be fearful of.”

2390 Monument Blvd.

All Day 687-4100 Terry also wrote a beautiful and touchKohls Shopping Center Everyday ing song about Roxx on Main, encompassing his and just about everyone’s opinion.

In talking with most of the performers and audience members, the common consensus was: “Great food, great people.” Roxx does

PAUL’S PICKS FOR NOVEMBER

NOVEMBER SPECIAL

$4.99

Restaurant www.dallimontis.com

Come for the food stay for the music!

FRIDAY KARAOKE NIGHT • GRAB THE MIC AND ROCK OUT LIVE MUSIC EVERY SATURDAY 11/2 The Big Jangle • 11/9 Lumberyard 11/16 Tamsen Donner Blues Band • 11/23 Loose Blues • 11/30 The Shillz • A Family Tradition Since 1982 • Open for Lunch & Dinner • Reservations & Take Out Available • Small Banquets Welcome • Full Bar & Wine List • A Touch of North Beach in your Neighborhood

1932 Oak Park Boulevard, Pleasant Hill. 925-944-5224

Sign up for our Birthday Club on our website and get a

FREE MEAL

99¢ LATE NIGHT SPECIAL Friday and Saturday 10pm - Midnight

99¢ per piece of Sushi 99¢ per skewer • $5 Sake Bomb for two Many more offers...

1918 Oak Park Blvd, Pleasant Hill 925-705-7065/7066 (PHONE) • 925-705-7067 (FAX) www.kobejapanrestaurant.com

Up to $30 for your Birthday Hibachi Dinner www.kobejapanrestaurant.com

November 2013

www.ourcommunityfocus.com

Page 27

Local Authors The Community Focus is proud to introduce three recently published books by local female authors: Deborah Lee Rose, Pamela Ann Will and Gretchen de la O.

Deborah Lee Rose

Walnut Creek’s Deborah Lee Rose is an internationally published, award-winning author of 14 children’s books including her newest titles, The Spelling Bee Before Recess, Jimmy the Joey and Someone’s Sleepy. The Spelling Bee Before Recess is her fourth collaboration with illustrator Carey F. Armstrong-Ellis, who helped create Deborah’s bestselling series, The Twelve Days of Kindergarten, The Twelve Days of Winter and The Twelve Days of Springtime. “The success of those school stories, based on the rhythm of The Twelve Days of Christmas, got me thinking about adapting ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas,” Deborah explains. “I loved the sound of the verses where the reindeer names are called out and I wanted to write a school story that had a similar kind of call-out, and that gave me the idea of creating a fictional spelling bee.” Deborah based the story on her childhood memory of losing the school spelling bee, an event that pushed her to become a huge reader and a professional writer. She was also inspired by her own children’s spelling experiences in elementary school. To make the book universal, she drew vocabulary from spelling lists used by schools across the country. The Spelling Bee Before Recess includes three spelling lists that can be used for spelling bees at home, in school, at the library, or for community events.

This is Deborah’s 25th year writing children’s books, and her very first book, The People Who Hugged the Trees, is still included in major school reading anthologies and used for live performances for school groups. Her new nonfiction book, Jimmy the Joey, tells of the rescue of an orphaned baby koala by Australia’s Koala Hospital. Her new rhyming book for very young children, Someone’s Sleepy, has also been made into a song and will be a downloadable lullaby by Grammy-winning singer/songwriter Tom Chapin.

Visit Deborah’s website at deborahleerose.com. Her books are available through Amazon.com and Barnes and Noble.

Pamela Ann Will Martinez resident Pamela Ann Will released The Snicky Guide To Falling Asleep on the Apple iBookstore last September. Written with the goal of helping sleep-deprived parents, The Snicky Guide features an adorable eightpound Miniature Pinscher who has mastered the art of the power nap. Pamela says that the book is the result of Snicky’s uncanny ability to sleep anytime and anywhere, coupled with the fact that her niece recently had a baby.

“I kept seeing my niece post on Facebook that she wasn’t getting any sleep. On the other hand, my new rescue dog Snicky seemed to be sleeping all the time. I started taking pictures of Snicky’s quirky sleep style and The Snicky Guide was born.” The Snicky Guide has a gentle message, adorable photos, and an innovative storyline that sets the tone for an enjoyable bedtime. If you have trouble getting your child to bed, this 23-page guide is the perfect addition to your iBooks library. You can purchase the book on iTunes for $2.99.

Gretchen de la O Gretchen de la O, author of the steamy new adult romance series, Wilson Mooney, just published the third and final book, Beyond Eighteen, on October 2. After leaving readers reeling from the heart stopping cliff-hangers in the first two books, Almost Eighteen and Eighteen at Last, Beyond Eighteen delivers the blood boiling drama, and skin tingling excitement of a truly forbidden love. Beyond Eighteen is a continuation that pushes its reader’s past taboo and plunges them front and center into Wilson and Max’s existence. This romantic tale goes far beyond the discovery of first love and the pressures of family dynamics. It takes the reader on a journey they never want to end.

By day, Gretchen teaches computer, by night she dons the cloak of motherhood, wifehood, and authorship. She is making her way through self-publishing and is truly learning to let go with every curve and bump in the creative process. She enjoys writing in the first person about first loves and first times. She is a firm believer that anything is possible if you set your mind to it, and what you expect out of life, always finds a way of showing up. Gretchen happily lives in Pleasant Hill with her husband and three boys.

You can connect with Gretchen on her website, www.gretchendelao.com or on social media: www.facebook.com/booksbyGretchendelao and www.twitter.com/delaogk. The Wilson Mooney Series is available through Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble, Kobo, iBooks, Smashwords and Createspace.

Page 28

www.ourcommunityfocus.com

November 2013

Finance your NEW or USED AUTO loan and receive a $100.00 GAS CARD!* JOIN TODAY

Receive a FREE Gift!

SHELL WESTERN STATES FEDERAL CREDIT UNION Offers membership to any person who lives, works, worships, volunteers, has a business or attends school in the City of Martinez & Pacheco

Shell Western States offers many great services: FREE Checking FREE Bill Pay & Home Banking Interest rates as low as 1.90% High Yield Rates on Savings Accounts Retirement Solutions / IRA Rollovers First Order of Checks FREE

SWS

1700 Pacheco Blvd., Martinez CA 94553

925-228-4545

Visit us on the web: www.swsfcu.org *No refinances/must meet underwriting criteria.

November 2013

www.ourcommunityfocus.com

To Read or Not to Read

By Zane Dundon, Senior, De La Salle HS

Thomas Harris’s The Silence of the Lambs is a hair-raising psychological thriller that examines humanity’s capacity for good and, more often, for evil. There are few characters as memorable or frightening as Hannibal Lecter. His utter lack of morality combined with a façade of cultural refinement produces a terrifying, paradoxical monster that cannot be imitated. But Lecter is just one piece of Harris’s brilliant work; the other characters are exceptional as well.

The novel opens when Clarice Starling, a young FBI trainee, receives an assignment from Jack Crawford, head of the behavioral science division of the FBI. Starling is to present a questionnaire to Hannibal Lecter, an infamous incarcerated serial killer and former psychiatrist. However, what Crawford doesn’t tell Starling is that his real purpose in sending her to Lecter is to get his help in catching another serial killer on the loose, Buffalo Bill.

As Starling becomes more involved in the Buffalo Bill investigation, she becomes more dependent on Lecter for help in analyzing the killer’s mind.

In return for his help in the investiga-

tion, Lecter requires that Starling tell him about her life. As Starling grows increasingly desperate to catch Buffalo Bill, she allows Lecter further and further into her mind. The complicated relationship between Starling, a driven FBI trainee, and Lecter, a cannibalistic serial killer, is one of the most interesting parts of Harris’s novel, and it illustrates why The Silence of the Lambs is considered a classic of the psychological thriller genre.

One of Harris’s greatest strengths as a writer is that his characters are incredibly believable. Although best known for his portrayal of the chillingly analytical Dr. Lecter, Harris’s other characters, such as the maniacal Buffalo Bill, are also prime examples of his skills as a writer. The Silence of the Lambs is widely considered to be one of, if not, the best psychological thriller of all time, and although the movie adapted it well, the book delivers a different yet equally chilling experience.

Also, if you like The Silence of the Lambs, check out Red Dragon and Hannibal. They have many of the same characters as The Silence of the Lambs, but can be read separately.

Read My Mind ©

Page 29

Book Reviews by Michael G. Harris, OD other coach, man or woman.

Good Sports!

She taught young I’ve always been a big women from diverse backsports fan and love reading grounds the importance of books about sports heroes. hard work, teamwork, and Recent books highlight leadership. Her personality several who were really “good and style made her a much sports!” beloved coach and mentor.

Even though he coached In her book, Summitt discusses her the dreaded LA Lakers, Phil Jackson many triumphs and disappointments. is a legendary basketball coach who She comes across as very human managed to win with class and Zen. and openly discusses her battle with Jackson’s biography Eleven Rings: The Alzheimer’s disease. While everyone Soul of Success recounts his younger years in North Dakota, his playing days will enjoy this book, I think it will be especially meaningful for mothers who in the NBA, and the eleven champiface the challenge of balancing work onship teams he coached during his and family. Pat Summitt will be an illustrious career. Whether it’s dealing with Michael Jordan, Dennis Rodman, inspiration to you and your children.

While some of today’s baseball Shaq, or Kobe Bryant, Jackson’s laidplayers use illegal substances and lie back style seems to bring out the best about it, it’s nice to read a book about in his players. He calls his approach a ballplayer who achieved success to coaching “mindful leadership.” His ability to get the most out of his players through hard work and determination.

John Rosengren introduces us to such proves that this Zen master knows his a player in Hank Greenberg: The Hero stuff.

Of Heroes. When Greenberg joined the Even if you don’t like basketball, Detroit Tigers in 1930, he wasn’t the you will enjoy this well-written book first Jewish major leaguer, but he was by perhaps the smartest coach ever. the first to gain any notoriety.

How can you not like a book about Greenberg led the major leagues sports that quotes Rudyard Kipling, with 58 home runs in 1938. He was a Buddha, Napoleon, Martin Luther hero to Detroit Tigers fans and one of King Jr., and the Dalai Lama? My America’s most prominent Jews. Nonefavorite quote from the book (and a lesson for all of us) is the Chinese prov- theless, Greenberg heard anti-Semitic slurs wherever he played, even though erb: “Fall down seven times. Stand up he was one of the greatest sluggers of eight.”

Pat Summitt is more than Jackson’s his era.

Rosengren illustrates the struggle equal when it comes to college basketGreenberg had balancing his Orthoball. Summitt’s life and brilliant career dox Jewish upbringing and his career. as the women’s basketball coach at the Many chastised him for not playing in University of Tennessee are portrayed the World Series on Yom Kippur, the in her recent biography Sum It Up, holiest day of the Jewish year. which captures her “1,098 victories, a Greenberg’s challenges in overcouple of irrelevant losses, and a life in coming religious prejudice preceded perspective.”

Jackie Robinson’s struggle with racial Summitt grew up in the tobacco prejudice by nearly two decades. Some fields of Tennessee, learned basketball from her brothers, became a basketball say Greenberg’s example on how to surmount prejudice and thrive in the star, won Olympic Gold, and became major leagues was an inspiration to head coach of the University of TenRobinson. For his generation and those nessee “Lady Vols” at the young age of who followed in his footsteps, Green22. She led the team for the next four decades and won more games than any berg was “the hero of heroes.”

www.ourcommunityfocus.com

Page 30

Long Term Care

By Colleen Callahan, CLU, CASL, LUTCF Based on the 2013 survey for November is Long-Term the East Bay, the annual cost Care Awareness Month. The of a semi-private room is listed intention is to encourage baby at $94,000. It lists the cost for boomers to get started with part-time care at home as proper planning. Adding a $55,000 annually. A two or long-term care policy to that three-year stay in a nursing holiday gift wish list would be home comes with a hefty price. an upbeat way to approach

Long-term care insurthe holiday season. Long-term ance can help pay for those expenses. There care (LTC) is the assistance needed over are several ways to qualify for benefits: the an extended period of time to manage a chronic condition. The care can be provided inability to perform two out of six activities of daily living, a physician certified medical at home, in a nursing home or in another necessity for a nursing facility, or a cognitive facility. Medicare does not cover much in the realm of LTC. Long-term care insurance impairment. Benefits can be paid on a daily, is intended to protect against loss caused by weekly or monthly basis. You can work aging and to protect against spending down with a qualified agent to design a plan that assets. Without a plan, most people will self- suits your needs and budget. Couples can insure the risk and rely on family by default. be eligible for discounts, and the benefits do not have to be identical. Of course, one Medi-Cal requires one to deplete or spend down assets before the government will pay must have good health to qualify!

Colleen Callahan Insurance Services for the care.

The cost of care is shocking. Genworth, is located 140 Gregory Lane, Suite 170 in Pleasant Hill. She can be reached at 925a financial security company, has a great 363-5433. Â cost of care calculator on their website.

PAID ADVERTORIAL

November 2013

Go Green This Holiday

Consider these great green tips for gift giving this holiday season!

Buy Energy-Saving LED Holiday Lights: LED lights use 90% less energy than conventional lights and can save your family up to $50 on your energy bill during the holiday season. You can find LED lights at many major retailers, including Target, Costco and Ace Hardware.

Reduce Waste: Between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day, Americans generate 25% more landfill waste than during the rest of the year. Bring your own bags to carry gifts, consolidate shopping trips to cut back on gas, and consider sending holiday cheer with handmade cards, or via the Internet, telephone or in person to cut back on paper waste.

Make Your Own Wrapping Paper: Be creative! Wrap gifts in the Sunday comics, magazines, paper grocery bags, old scarves or cloth bags. If every family in the U.S. wrapped three gifts with reused materials, it would save enough paper to cover 45,000 football fields!

Recycle Your Wrapping Paper: If you do choose to use regular wrapping paper make sure to recycle it, but only if it is non-metallic paper. Metallic wrapping paper and ribbon are NOT recyclable, so please put them in your blue garbage cart.

Recycle Your Christmas Tree: Recycling holiday trees is easy! Keep an eye out for a billing insert in your Republic Services bill that will detail when your tree pick up will occur.

Purchase Quality Gifts: Look for gifts that are long-lasting & reusable. If shopping for electronics look for the most energy-efficient models. Purchase gifts made from organic or recycled materials and avoid materials like PVC. Choose items that have minimal, recyclable packaging. For the person that has everything, make them a nice personalized gift (gourmet dinner, cookies, massage) or donate to charities in their name.

Shop Green: Consider doing your holiday shopping at Contra Costa County Green Certified Businesses. Find local businesses at www.greenbiz.ca.gov.

Presented by the Pleasant Hill Chamber of Commerce Green Committee

Jim and Jackie Winkel

Helping Families Make Safe Choices 925-808-1578 www.carepatrol.com

www.ourcommunityfocus.com

November 2013

SENIOR CALENDARS SPONSORED BY:

Linda J. Weihofen

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

Martinez Senior Activities 818 Green St. (925) 370-8770

It’s Membership Renewal Time for 2014! It is time to renew your membership, still a bargain at only $10 per person per calendar year. You will continue to receive an informative monthly bulletin, get to sign up for trips when first available, save money on special events and much more. We will begin signing up Friday, November 1. For any new member signing up prior to the end of the year, we charge $10 for 2014, and the months of November and December are free. What a bargain the first year: 14 months for $10.

Pilates Class – New Class. Mondays: 11am – 12pm. Pilates helps to improve your flexibility, increase core strength and improve joint mobility, which helps prevent injuries. It also increases one’s body awareness through focus, balance and concentration. This class is so beneficial to your physical being and a great way to unwind and relax. Cost: $5 per class. Instructor: Maureen O’Neil.

Nov. 15 - Holiday Bazaar and Lunch 9am – 2pm. Lunch is served from 11:30am – 1pm. You will find white elephant items, beautiful jewelry, plants, cards, crafts, glass & crystal items, holiday decorations and much more.

Don’t miss out on that “treasured item” you can’t live without. Lunch will consist of pasta, salad, garlic bread, coffee and tea. For dessert you can purchase something delicious from our bake sale area.

Dec. 31 - New Year’s Eve Bingo Bash. Doors open at 5:30pm and games begin at 7pm. Food * Prizes * Bingo – Everyone is Welcome Don’t miss the fun! We will be playing some new games, and prizes will be given out throughout the evening. There will be 16 games with 16 winners, with a prize given to a lucky recipient after reach game. $40 guaranteed minimum “pot” for the regular games. “Pot” size depends upon sales and may be increased. Refreshments will be served. Cost: $5 for one 10-game regular pack. Note: There will be lots of prizes, such as a free trip to a gambling casino and movie passes. Please call the office to sign-up so we can plan our menu.

Page 31

Thank You Pleasant Hill From the Pleasant Hill Civic Action Commission cle Works and Trailtechnique (for their 9th Annual Community Service Day; help in repairing more than 70 bikes for You Made the Difference needy kids) More than 1,000 volunteers par• Oak Park Church volunteers ticipated in the 9th Annual Community • The Girl Scouts (who helped collect Service Day on Saturday, September 28. almost 2,752 lbs. of food for the Contra There were 33 projects citywide includCosta Food Bank) ing: ten schools, eight senior homes for • Starbucks (for coffee donations) senior residents, PH Library, four Rec & For the first time this year, the Civic Park District sites, Ellinwood Creek, PH Action Commission organized eight Instructional Garden, and lots more. A projects at the homes of senior residents. special thank you goes to the following organizations and businesses that contrib- Sheila Cotruvo, Andrew Pierce, Steve Oldenbourg and Patty O’Malley led a uted to the event: dedicated group of volunteers to do land• The Pleasant Hill Lions Club (for scaping and yard work for these residents, breakfast at the park) and they were very grateful for the assist• Pleasant Hill Recreation & Park Disance. trict (for providing their facility for the There are too many schools, church breakfast and registration) • Republic Services (for donating bottled groups, businesses, organizations, and names of individuals to list, but we thank water) you all for your dedication, hard work • Pleasant Hill Police Department, and commitment in giving back to your Bicycle Trails Council of the East Bay, community.

Devil Mountain Cyclery, Pegasus Bicy-

Pleasant Hill Senior Activities 233 Gregory Lane (925) 798-8788

Discounted Senior Club Memberships Now Available. Come see why over 3,000 other seniors are now members of the Pleasant Hill Senior Club. Purchase a year-end membership for only $5, valid through December 31, 2013. To join, contact the Pleasant Hill Senior Center at (925) 798-8788.

Nov. 1 – Dec. 20 – Food Drive for Contra Costa Food Bank. Collection containers will be in the lobby of the Senior Center at 233 Gregory Lane. We accept nonperishable and unopened food (no glass or expired items). Most needed items include: peanut butter, whole grain cereals, hearty soups, beans/lentils (dry or canned), canned tuna/chicken, canned fruit in juice, canned vegetables in water, brown rice, whole wheat pasta, canned tomatoes.

Volunteers of all ages made a difference at the home of Carol Abfalter.

Nov. 15 – Pleasant Hill Police Presents “Safety for Seniors” – 1pm.

The Pleasant Hill Police officers will discuss ways to avoid financial scams and opportunities that appear valid but later prove to be scams. They will also discuss senior safety and crime prevention at home and away. Call Pleasant Hill Senior Center (925) 798-8788 to reserve your spot. Event is free and located at the Center’s Chateau Room.

Nov. 23– Holiday Boutique - 9am – 3pm. Get an early start on your holiday shopping! Visit our Holiday Boutique and choose from a huge selection of quality handmade items at affordable prices.

Fridays through March 31, 2014 – Soup’s On at the Pleasant Hill Senior Center from 11:30-12:30pm. Chef’s Lunch offers a “Soup & Savory” menu. For $5, hot soup is paired with a hot sandwich or another menu item. No reservations required. Just drop in!

Volunteers sew crafts for St. Marks Lutheran Church.

www.ourcommunityfocus.com

Page 32

November 2013

135 Mason Circle Concord, CA 94520 Tel: 925-­‐459-­‐5615 • Fax: 925-­‐798-­‐3673 DC Solar is proud to be the supplier of the Solar Eclipse™ Mobile Solar Generator and Solar Com™ Dark Area Cell Coverage Provider

The Solar Eclipse™ is a revolutionary new product that provides pure, renewable, mobile energy to customers in the Agriculture, Construction, Entertainment, Event Emergency Preparedness, Stage & Lighting, and Telecommunications industries – just to name a few. The Solar Eclipse™ is a smart solution, especially when compared to a standard diesel powered generator. It’s cost effective, requires no fuel, is noise and emissions free and requires minimal maintenance.

In a world demanding clean energy solutions, the Solar Eclipse™ delivers pure energy without the carbon footprint of its diesel counterpart.

For Leasing Inquiries Please Call Our Hotline 888-­‐349-­‐3485

www.dcsolardistribution.com

Take Back Your Yard

MOVING & STORAGE, INC.

Show mosquitoes that you’re the boss.

Get rid of them with Mosquito Squad, the most trusted professional mosquito elimination for everyday outdoor living.

Our priorities are clear…

We are dedicated to quality service and customer satisfaction!

Excellent - Experienced - Efficient Residential & Office Experts Family Owned and Operated Since 1975 Relocation and Storage Services 1 Month FREE storage at our new facility Call today for instant price quote or set up a free estimate for a guaranteed price!

800-232-9977

Moving You On To Better Things

Eliminates ticks and other biting insects, too.

TRIAL OFFERS, FIRST SPRAY

100% Satisfaction

Guaranteed.

$ 49 $ 69

1/2 acre or less (Regular Price $99-$119)

1/2 acre to 1 acre (Regular Price $149-$169)

Call today 925.262.8453 or visit MosquitoSquad.com

No Bugs. No Bites. No Kidding.

First time customers only. Limit one coupon per property. Not valid with other offers. DPR BL: 39227

© OLB MSF_6252_T_003

www.ourcommunityfocus.com

November 2013

Page 33

Riding the Rails

By Richard Patchin

Source of material is from the November 2006 Issue of the Martinez Historical Society Newsletter and parts of a lecture at the Martinez Senior Center on September 29, 2006.

“Done.” This was the telegraph message sent east to Omaha and Chicago and west to Sacramento and San Francisco at 12:47pm on May 10, 1869, from a remote area of Utah. It reported the completion of the greatest single engineering feat in the history of the United States: the building of the transcontinental railroad. Many historians argue that this event was not equaled or surpassed until an astronaut walked on the moon.

By the end of the century, a network of tracks had been laid throughout the American West. Contra Costa County was no stranger to railroads, even when the transcontinental was built. In 1862, the Pittsburg Coal Mining Company incorporated a railroad to connect its mining operations in Somersville to Pittsburg Landing, where coal was transferred from rail cars to barges for the trip down river to fuel burgeoning industries around the Bay. Other lines were planned and promoted by prominent citizens such as Simon Blum, Charles Sherman, Elam Brown, Hiram Mills, John Larkey, Charles Fish, John Tormey, J.

Also known as the Muir Trestle or Alhambra Trestle, this railroad bridge crosses the Alhambra Valley, just south of Highway 4.

H. Carothers, T. A. Brown, Francisco Galindo and John Strentzel. Their objective was to get agricultural products to the shoreline for shipment down river. The Carquinez Strait was recognized for providing ideal conditions for harbor facilities, particularly a deepwater channel close to shore. Builders realized that a line from Oakland along the south shore of the Strait and beyond would allow a low level access to the Central Valley, a crossing to the north shore, and service to developing port facilities.

The Northern Railway Company was incorporated on July 19, 1871, to build a line from Oakland to Martinez.

Antiques & Things

Holiday Boutique Saturday!

November 16!

9am - 5pm! !

This was no easy task, but the entire line was open from Tracy through Martinez to Oakland in 1878. This service lasted until 1879, when the route changed to cross the strait at Benicia. The Central Pacific then began rail ferry service.

With rail and waterway service, wheat production exploded. By the early 1870s, wheat acreage had doubled from one million to two million. By the end of the decade, over three million acres were planted in wheat. The Port Costa shoreline became the unrivaled center of California wheat trade. Trains through Martinez carried nearly all of the wheat from the San Joaquin Valley, while grain trains from the Sacramento Valley crossed at Benicia.

Martinez shared in the boom by shipping millions of tons of grain from its own Grangers’ Wharf, built in 1876.

But the boom was short-lived. Just

as rail expansion opened the valleys of California, railroads brought new producers to the marketplace from other parts of the world. By then, many farmers in Contra Costa had heeded the advice of orchardist John Strentzel to plant fruit and nut trees and vineyards.

Railway competition brought the Santa Fe to the area. Its line required bridges, tunnels, including the 5,560foot Franklin tunnel, and a 1,630-foot trestle across the Alhambra Valley.

The trestle was billed as “the largest steel bridge in California and the most modern in the world.” Martinez citizens granted rights-of-way and donated land, and George Fraser provided a site for a station and warehouse.

Added note: There are few authoritative sources of history available on the bridge. According to a post on the forum www.trainorders.com: The bridge was built around 1899-1900, and goes by a number of names. It crosses the Alhambra Valley, so Alhambra Valley trestle makes sense. In History of the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railway, Keith Bryant calls it the Alhambra viaduct, giving its length as 1600ft and height as 75ft (Keibel’s book gives the length as 1680ft). Santa Fe’s Muir station was located just east of the bridge, so it is also called Muir Trestle. Its “real” name, so far as the railroad is concerned, is woefully unromantic, “Bridge 1170.7,” denoting its milepost location. According to Keibel’s book, the bridge was completely rebuilt in 1929 into the structure we see today, with new piers and larger deck girders.

SAVE BIG THIS SUMMER ON ALL WINDOW TREATMENTS! Join us for our ! annual holiday boutique.!

25

•Meet our dealers!

5807 Pacheco Blvd! •Shop for seasonal & gift items!

Pacheco, CA 94553!

•Enjoy refreshments while you shop 925-685-8930

As featured on

Call Today To Schedule Your Complimentary In-Home Consultation

925-229-4263 www.budgetblinds.com Financing Now Available

SERVING THESE ZIP CODES: 94525 • 94530 • 94547 • 94553 • 94569 • 94564 94572 • 94801 • 94802 • 94803 • 94804 • 94805 • 94806

Page 34

www.ourcommunityfocus.com

November 2013

Giving Thanks for Family Pets Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital ... Since 1976 PAID ADVERTORIAL

*NEW* Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital Joseph A. Thibedeau, DVM Louisa M. Asseo, DVM t XXX IJMMDSFTUWFU DPN

PRESENTS

HAPPY HOUR M–F 11AM-5PM ASK INSIDE THE STORE FOR DETAILS!

www.ourcommunityfocus.com

November 2013

How to Have a Good Night’s Sleep, Naturally

By Myra Nissen, CCH, Certified Homeopath cause early-morning wak According to the Mayo ing and trigger hot flashes Clinic, someone who expeor night sweats. Engage in riences poor sleep at least relaxing activity before bed. three times a week conTake a warm Epsom salt tinually over the period of a bath. month has chronic insom Make a list of all the nia. things that keep you up Things that prevent before bed. You will know restful sleep include: persistent stress, depression, use of stimulants how to deal with them in the morning.

If you remember something that didn’t (caffeine, alcohol, sugar, or highly make it on the list, dismiss it. It probsalted foods), side effects of medicaably wasn’t that important. tion, erratic schedules, and hormonal If Changes Don’t Work, changes.

Homeopathy May Health-related risks from lack of The right homeopathic remedy sleep include: a high propensity for accidents, obesity, hormone disruption, lifts underlying issues to help you sleep.

The remedy must fit the symptoms. For diabetes, heart problems, depression, example, Nux vomica can help a light and substance abuse. sleeper who is sensitive to noise, wakes Most adults need 7-9 hours sleep. up at 3-4 am, or can’t sleep after abuse Binging on extra sleep to overcome sleep loss may seem like the right thing of sleeping pills or alcohol. Ignatia-amara may help someone who develops to do, but a recent Harvard Mediinsomnia after the loss of a loved one. cal School study found that it doesn’t There are many more. work.

I can help you sleep better. ConSimple Things To Do To tact me. Mention Community Focus Improve Sleep for a free, 20-minute assessment and Dietary and lifestyle changes can complementary homeopathic sleep-aid help, but it’s best to try one change at a while the supply lasts. Myra Nissen, time. Give it three weeks before trying CCH, RSHom(NA), 925.826.3858, another. Avoid alcohol. Alcohol before www.MyraNissen.com. bed may help you fall asleep, but it can PAID ADVERTORIAL

shop for

bargains,

shop for

foster children

Page 35

The Shaking is Over...Now What?

By Jim Bonato, Pleasant Hill CERT Program Manager “Phew! The shaking from that temblor seems to be over, but my gosh…

I’ve been told there may be aftershocks.

Thank goodness I ducked under the kitchen table to protect me from the falling plates and glasses. What’s that smell? Gas!” Past articles in this paper (available on www.communityfocus.com) have focused on being prepared. This month I’m going to talk about what to do AFTER a major earthquake strikes.

First, check yourself and others nearby for any injuries and administer first aid if needed. Call 911 only to report a life-threatening emergency.

Put on gloves, a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, and shoes to protect you against loose debris and broken glass.

These are the biggest causes of postearthquake injuries.

Check your home for any hazards or safety issues. If you hear the hiss of gas or smell gas, open windows, leave the house, and turn off the gas at the gas meter. DO NOT attempt to turn the gas back on…that’s a job for PG&E only. If you notice sparks from house wiring or electrical equipment, turn the electricity off at the main circuit box.

Put out any small fires safely with a fire extinguisher. Immediately fill the bathtub with water – this and your water heater will be a good water source for you. Clean up any spills from gasoline or household chemicals.

If the quake struck during the day, family members will most likely be separated. Everyone should call a pre-determined, out-of-state relative, to check in, give their locations, and provide their anticipated next actions.

Everyone should know their family’s pre-arranged gathering site and head there if safety permits.

If you have an emergency handcrank radio, turn it on and tune it to KCBS AM 740 for updates on the quake’s aftermath and damage to the region’s infrastructure – road closures, water main breaks, gas line ruptures, etc. Stay away from those areas.

If your home is damaged, grab your emergency earthquake kit and safely exit. Beware of falling chimneys, downed power lines, and anything overhead that may fall and injure you.

Once you are safe and your home is reasonably stable, check on your neighbors, particularly the elderly, and see what help might be needed.

Be wary of aftershocks. Large quakes are always followed by aftershocks, and some are larger than the original quake. Treat each aftershock as a fresh quake in terms of safety.

Thinking about the actions you WILL take following a major earthquake, putting together your emergency earthquake kit, and having a family plan will give you and your family confidence that you have prepared well.

A PROUD RECIPIENT OF DIABLO MAGAZINE’S FIVE STAR AWARD FOR 2012-2013! !

Youth Homes Auxiliary Thrift Shop raises money in support of the needs of young people in the care of Youth Homes, Inc.

"#$%&!'()!*+,-%./!0(1!/-+-*.,%2!3-!$/!(%-!(0!.#-!.(4!56!(0!7-$+.(1/!,%!.#-!8$/.!9$':

<=>?@A@?9BB98>?@AC7@ DEF98>?@GA8H9= !"#$%&'$%()*$%+*%"%,"&%+-%.+/0% "%1+2"&)+2%"&%345%)6%7"1$%)2% 8+9-%:"7$%;)&'%$#$-<% &-"26"=&)+2%=>+6$1?

SENIOR 5% DISCOUNT EVERYDAY 15C Vivian Dr Pleasant Hill, CA (Behind Jack in The Box)

925-798-5561 Hours: Mon-Sat 10 AM – 4 PM

Suzanne Looker 34)+'$/&0$5'6&-.7*$8&,70)'" !"#$%&'&$()'$*)+$,-.$*)+'$/&012

!"#$!%&$!'&' ()*+,,-$.//0-123+4),5/,$4/6 789:'%;;'#&#

www.ourcommunityfocus.com

Page 36

November 2013

Solutions for Incontinence One of the most common urological problems I treat is urinary incontinence - the loss of control over urination. In some instances it’s as minor a problem as losing a few drops of urine while running or coughing. In other cases, one may feel a strong, sudden urge to urinate just before losing a large amount of urine.

Many patients experience both symptoms.

Both women and men can become incontinent from neurologic injury, birth defects, stroke, multiple sclerosis, and physical problems associated with aging. Women experience urinary incontinence twice as often as men due to pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, and the structure of the female urinary tract. Incontinence in men is mostly related to prostate problems, but there are other neurological and bladder problems that contribute.

By Parminder Sethi, MD

Urinary incontinence solutions exist for virtually every form of in- The panel will review risk factors, causes, is not inevitable with age or and types of incontinence and offer the latcontinence. “something you have to live est data on medications and treatment op Dr. Parminder Sethi is a Urologist at with.” Urinary incontinence tions for improving quality of life. Speakers Pacific Urology. He specializes in treatis a medical problem. People ing patients with urinary incontinence and include urologists Dr. Brian Hopkins and aren’t aware that a specialty exDr. Parminder Sethi, along with specialist bladder dysfunction. To reach Dr. Sethi, ists for the management and Linda Adams, LVN. Location is the Walnut call 925-830-1140. care of incontinence condiCreek Library, Oak View Room, 6-8pm.

On November 14, 2013 join an entions. Highly effective, miniAdmission and refreshments are free. gaging panel of leading medical experts mally invasive treatments are available, and Please register in advance, 877-433-2873. regarding male and female incontinence. most can be done in the outpatient setting.

PAID ADVERTORIAL For men and women with overactive bladder conditions who have failed to improve with pharmacological management, we can now provide a new treatment option that uses mild electrical pulses to stimulate the nerve that controls the bladder and sur­rounding muscles that manage urinary function. From pharmacologic management and behavioral modification to pelvic floor rehabilitation and minimally invasive reconstructive surgical techniques, effective

A Light on Lung Cancer

By Gigi Chen, MD ment of early stage lung cancer The most effective way to and improve overall cure rate. reduce the risk of lung cancer

The CT screening is is through prevention. Smokrecommended only for people ing is thought to be the cause of who are at high risk, and the 85% of lung cancer. With our benefit would outweigh the progress in smoking cessation, risk. High risk is defined as there is a recent decline in lung individuals aged 55 to 74 who cancer rates and mortality, smoke 30 packs per year or however, 19% of populations have ceased smoking within 15 years. Lung in the U.S. are still smokers. We also know cancer screening should also be done in a that the risk of lung cancer still takes many multi-disciplinary program, which involves years to decline significantly after smoking expertise in guiding the screening. cessation. Therefore, there is a need for an effective screening modality for lung cancer. Join an engaging panel of medical experts as they cover the most current information Previously, studies using chest x-ray regarding early detection, new screening as a screening modality have not shown recommendations, clinical trials, treatment that it reduces cancer related deaths. More options, surgical techniques, and survivorrecently, the National Lung Screening Trial, ship issues on November 16, 2013, 3–5pm, conducted by National Cancer Institute, at the Walnut Creek Library. Register by compared annual screening using low dose chest CT scanning with chest x-ray for three calling 925-677-5041 x272 or going online: www.shinealightonlungcancer.org years in high-risk individuals and found a Gigi Chen, M.D., is a Medical reduction in lung cancer deaths. Several Oncologist and Hematologist practicing observation trials, including the early lung at Diablo Valley Oncology, located in the cancer project (ELCAP), showed that low dose chest CT could identify early asympto- California Cancer and Research Institute, Pleasant Hill. matic lung cancer. This would allow treatPAID ADVERTORIAL

ADVANCED

HEARING AID CENTER Wondering If You Have Hearing Loss?

FREE Hearing Evaluation Consultation TESTING • SALES • REPAIRS • All Types of Hearing Aids • Custom Noise & Swim Plugs • Batteries & Accessories • Guaranteed Warranties • Financing Available • Trade In Discounts Yolanda Kananen ACA • Diana Foster Over 20 Years Experience

Licensed by the State of California Certified by the American Academy of Audioprosthology Certified by the National Board of Certification in Hearing Instruments

Pleasant Hill Area 925-674-8621

425 Gregory Lane #202 , Pleasant Hill

Open Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm We Accept Most Insurance Plans

A+ RATING

Now Serving Concord Area 925-687-3211 2353 Concord Blvd, Concord

www.hearingimproved.com

November 2013

www.ourcommunityfocus.com

Page 37

MDUSD Superintendent Speaks with MDEA

By Jaki Jones 30 (passed in November 2012 and saved reserve that I have seen, coming from a echelon in the district, MDUSD Superinmassive budget cuts to education), there place that did not have a reserve, is wonDr. Meyer responded tendent Dr. Nellie Meyer were some people who had to come in derful from a budgetary standpoint. But by saying, “We have too spoke to the MDEA (Mt. and cut programs for students. I’m lookmuch like your funding for categorical many tiers in this sysDiablo Education Assoing at how to reinstate that, and the best programs, it is our obligation to use the tem--that is something I ciation) Representative way is to start looking at the things that funding that we get from California for noticed right away--and Assembly at the Willow the students we have in front of us. Recog- students need.” we need to make sure Creek Center on Octo Dr. Meyer is working on setting up nizing the required 2% reserve, whatever that everyone has an eqber 7. After she presented feeder pattern meetings, possibly at the is over that is something that we should uitable amount of supher vision for the school high schools, to greet and talk with partalk about being put in places that would port, and that includes district and strategies for ents, and she will have a schedule anhave the most impact on students. I do salary and benefits. If working together for the believe that morale and respect that retain nounced shortly. Dr. Meyer’s three-year you look at the impact benefit of all students, Dr. Nellie Meyer on the student and think, term with the school district began on teachers and classified employees could she took questions from September 23, and her contract runs be resolved by analyzing where some of ‘which roles have the greatest impact,’ it’s teachers. through June 30, 2016. that money is going. Prior to Proposition the teachers’ roles in the classroom.”

Issues included teacher salary in There has been an ongoing effort to creases, Common Core implementation, Mt. Diablo Unified School District has launched a Facebook Page. The purnegotiate a 2013-14 successor contract the scheduling of IEP’s (Individualized pose of the District Facebook page is to celebrate, recognize and communicate Education Program) and professional de- with MDUSD, and teachers are currently information about the schools and the school district. Posts will share informaasking for a 7% salary increase. The disvelopment. But foremost on the minds of tion about celebrations, recognitions, information, spotlighting special protrict had a $42 million unrestricted endthe audience was salary, health insurance grams, people, schools, and district history. Inquiries and suggestions on inforing balance for the 2012-2013 school year, and declining morale; unhappy teachers mation to post can be emailed to facebook@mdusd.org. which is more than $34 million beyond impact student learning. In response to a the state-required 2% reserve. Dr. Meyer comment about the unfortunate teacher answered a question about teacher salafurlough days in May, 2011, and how it ries and the $42 million by saying, “The contrasted with raises among the upper

By Tonya Marie Amos, Aspire Pilates ably. Notice your belly rising We live in a fast paced, while inhaling (like a balloon high stress society that moves inflating) and falling while quickly and relentlessly to fulexhaling (like a balloon defill our daily tasks. One of the Tropical Pilates Retreat flating). Notice if your shouloutward signs of stress is the March 15th - 22nd, 2014 ders and neck are tensing with tendency to hold our breath.

7 Nights Relaxation for Body & Mind short, choppy breaths. Now Since breathing is literally life, Pilates, Cooking & Spanish Classes This is your chance to escape! begin slowing down your we should do it fully. www.MexicoPilatesRetreat.com breath to create a long, ex Breathing works wonders pansive rising and falling of your belly. in the body because it brings life-givEnjoy this slow, deep breath a few mining oxygen and nutrients to every nook utes, and then repeat later the same day. and cranny of our system. Breathing If you initially get dizzy, stop and wait a deeply helps our energy level and focus, few seconds, then start again. Sometimes strengthens the core, improves our posthat first big dose of oxygen after years of ture and flexibility, aids digestion, boosts holding your breath can be a bit of a surimmunity, and decreases neck, shoulder prise. and back pain. Creating a sense of calm A few minutes a day of mindful ness and relaxation, breathing also decreases stress and anxiety, while lowering breathing has a great impact on how you blood pressure. The brain and body need feel. And it can be done anywhere, at anytime. You’ll soon be calmer, more plenty of oxygen to function well, and focused, and better energized. You may breathing is key.

Specialist in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics even be able to skip that afternoon cup of Check in with your body right now.

Are your shoulders up around your ears? coffee!

401 GREGORY LANE, SUITE 126 Tonya Marie Amos is a fully certiAre you holding your breath or pantPLEASANT HILL, CA 94523 fied Pilates instructor. For more inforing quickly like a puppy?

To retrain your 925.676.8485 FAX 925.676.0288 body to take in the oxygen it craves, prac- mation, please call (925) 680-4400 or go www.drjennifermartin.com to www.AspirePilatesCenter.com. tice slow deep breaths. Sit or lie comfort-

Are You Breathing?

JENNIFER L. MARTIN, D.D.S.

www.ourcommunityfocus.com

Page 38

November 2013

Community Announcements

Support the Rebuilding of the Pleasant Oaks Park Playground. Join concerned parent Laura Fernandez at the PH Rec and Park District board meeting, 6pm on Thursday, Nov. 7 at the Rec and Park District Office, 147 Gregory Lane, to voice your opinion.

the difference to the children, families, and seniors who simply can’t afford enough food. www. foodbankccs.org.

Central County Homeless Outreach Winter Wish List With the onset of the cold weather, CCHO is especially in need of: Blankets, Sox, Tarps, Gas Cards, Food Cards, Jackets and Coats, Knit Hats and Gloves. Central County Homeless Outreach is looking for donations of clean, used or new items. If you have any to spare, you can reach Doug at 925-812-3511.

If you’d like to donate to CCHO, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, please visit www.homelessoutreach.net and make a donation on the Contact-Donate page.

Candy Swap! Calling all Trick or Treaters Donate to Blue Star Moms! The orthodontist office of Dr. Jennifer Martin is asking all trickor-treaters to bring your candy to the “Candy Buy Back” on Nov. 8 between 2:30pm and 4:30pm. The candy will be donated to the Blue Star Moms and sent to troops serving in the military. You can drop your candy at 401 Gregory Lane, Suite 126 in Pleasant Hill.

The Society of American Magicians Assembly #112 meets the 3rd Wednesday of the month at 7pm. Open to all! Contact Fred at 925-4511292.

Shine a Light on Lung Cancer, Saturday, Nov. 16, 3–5pm, Walnut Creek Library, Oak Room, 1644 N. Broadway in Walnut Creek. Attend this educational event focusing on the unique issues of lung cancer patients. Join a panel of medical experts as they cover the most current information on lung cancer. Speakers: Dr. Kristina Kramer, Dr. Michaela Straznicka and Dr. Gigi Chen. Sponsors: Lung Cancer Alliance, Diablo Valley Oncology and the Cancer Support Community. Register by calling 925-677-5041 x272 or online at: www.shinealightonlungcancer.org.

Admission and refreshments are free.

Pleasant Hill Garden Study Club meeting is Tuesday, Nov. 5, 7pm, Fellowship Hall at Faith Lutheran Church, 50 Woodsworth Lane, PH. Kipp McMichael presents Succulents in Small Spaces. Guests are welcome and free. Contact: 925-944-4898 or www.phgsc.com.

Navlet’s November Classes Saturday, 11/9, 10am – Concord: Houseplants Saturday, 11/16, 10am – Concord and 2pm – Pleasant Hill: Winterizing Your Garden with Buzz Bertolero, The Dirt Gardener.

Thanksgiving Donations - Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano There is still time to make a difference for your hungry neighbors.

You can help provide more than 14,000 holiday meals and 26,000 food baskets that enable recipients to cook a special holiday meal and help them with everyday grocery needs. Help make

Christ the King Parish Altar Society Holiday Boutique. Saturday, Nov. 16, 11am to 7pm, and Sunday, Nov. 17, 7am to 2pm. Christ the King Church – Msgr. Wade Center, 199 Brandon Road, Pleasant Hill, 925-682-2486. Proceeds go

6th Annual

T E X A S H O L D’E M P O K E R CHALLENGE Join the Pit Crew to learn how to play and support your poker buddies.

benefiting

Saturday November 23rd, 2013 Back Forty 100 Coggins Drive Texas BBQ Pleasant Hill, CA

To purchase tickets: www.TexasHoldemSO.org -‐Poker Ticket Plus: $75 per player -‐Poker Ticket: $50 per player -‐Pit Crew Pass: $25 per person -‐Table Sponsor opportunities, starting at $500 -‐Re-‐buy and add-‐on opportunities available -‐Complimentary valet parking

NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

L AW

E N F O R C E M E N T

To r c h R u n C a l i f o r n i a . c o m

Gary Brown (925) 288-‐4634 Gbrown@ci.pleasant-‐hill.ca.us or Tom Mueller (925) 288-‐4605

to different needs around the Parish. Boutique will have many Christmas items for holiday gift giving, jewelries, knitted items, raffle prizes and baked goods and more. Call Violet DeBorja, President of the Altar Society at 925-934-7832 for details.

Holiday Crafter and Vendor Faire Hidden Valley Elementary will hold it’s 2nd annual Holiday Crafter and Vendor Faire on Saturday, Dec. 7, 10am to 3pm, 500 Glacier Drive, Martinez. Santa will be stopping by for pictures; fourth graders will be having a bake sale; there will a wide variety of vendors to your holiday gift giving needs. Check out our Hidden Valley Elementary Craft and Vendor Faire Facebook page for details.

In Search of John Muir by Anthony Gavin, Movie and Reception. Tuesday, Nov. 19, 6pm, Martinez Library, 740 Court Street, 925-6469900. This film has been showing to standing room only crowds throughout the Bay Area!

Free parking after 6pm. Seating is limited; reserve your spot today. You may call, ask a staff member or register online at: http://ccclib.org/ locations/martinez.

Contra Costa Chamber Orchestra presents Acting Out, featuring Jonathan Knight playing the Arutiunian Trumpet Concerto. Saturday, Nov. 23, 7:30pm, Los Medanos College Recital Hall, Pittsburg. $5-$10 at the door; Sunday, Nov. 24, 7:30pm Lesher Center for the Arts, Walnut Creek. $10-$30 at the door. Tickets by phone 925-943-SHOW or online at www.LesherArtsCenter.org. The dramatic program also includes Bernstein’s Overture to Candide, John

Williams’s The Cowboys Overture, Suite from the Threepenny Opera by Kurt Weil and Stravinsky’s L’histoire d.

Diablo Symphony Concert Sea Interludes and Harold in Italy, Nov. 17 at the Lesher Center. In performing Benjamin Britten’s hauntingly beautiful Sea Interludes, we will celebrate the centenary of the birth of this great British composer. Berlioz’s Harold in Italy, inspired by Byron’s epic poem “Childe Harold’s Pilgrimage,” will feature violist Ellen Ruth Rose. Tickets are available at 925-943-SHOW (7469) or online at www.lesherartscenter.org, or at the Lesher Center Box Office.

Thanksgathering Service at Creekside Church, November 28, 9 -10am, 444 Fig Tree Lane, Martinez.

Welcome Aboard the Diablo Valley Lines!

The Walnut Creek Model Railroad Society (WCMRS) operates the Diablo Valley Lines (DVL) model railroad, one of the most mountainous and one of the largest exclusively HO scale model railroads in the United States. We we invite you to view our permanent 34’x56’ layout. The DVL is comprised of approximately 4,300 feet of hand-laid track on more than 175,000 individual ties with over 240 turnouts. Holiday Shows: Friday, Nov. 22, 8pm-10pm ; Saturday Nov. 23, 11am-6pm; Friday Nov. 29, 2pm-10pm and Saturday Nov. 30, 11am-6pm. Adults (13+) $3, seniors (60+) and children under 6 are $2. Walnut Creek Model Railroad Society is located at 2751 Buena Vista Avenue in Walnut Creek. For more information visit www.wcmrs.org or call 925-937-1888.

www.ourcommunityfocus.com

November 2013

Page 39

• BUSINESS SERVICE DIRECTORY •BUSINESS SERVICE DIRECTORY • BUSINESS SERVICE DIRECTORY • BUSINESS SERVICE DIRECTORY •

S.B PAINTING, INC.

Interior • Exterior • Commercial • Residential

Saul Bahary

sbpainting4u@yahoo.com www.sbpainting4u.com

Office 925.932.3193 Fax 925.932.2578 Cell 925.305.8686 Since 1982 • State Lic. #555600

FIRST TIME BUYERS Why rent when you can own?

Free list w/pics of homes available for under $1500/month*.

www.1stTimeBuyerList.com Free recorded message 1-800-597-9215 - ID#1234 *Conditions Apply

East Bay Residential Realty, BRE#01245396

the carpet CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING locally owned and operated established in '99

925.934.5545

www.thecarpetbutler.biz

NEW NAME SAME GREAT SERVICE YOU EXPECT! Find what you're looking for at

Antiques & Things

925-827-1200

sales@crsfbay.com • www.crsfbay.com 1936 Linda Drive Pleasant Hill CA 94523

(925) 685-8930!

Tue-Sat: 10am-5pm!

Sun-Mon: 11am-5pm! nicsnchips@comcast.net

5807 Pacheco Blvd!

Pacheco, CA 94553 "It's bigger than it looks!"

Mention this ad and receive 10% OFF.

Mark Ellinwood, Owner • PO Box 23774 • Pleasant Hill, CA 94523

ANTS • SPIDERS • MICE • RATS A Wee Change Acu-Wellness Center Advanced Hearing Aid Center Antiques & Things Aspire Pilates Center Astound BCI Cabinet Design Big Air Heating and Air Conditioning Budget Blinds CarePatrol Carlton Senior Living Cold Stone Creamery Coldwell Banker, Marlene Haws Colleen Callahan Insurance Services Concord Chamber of Commerce Country Waffles

Thank You Advertisers!

Creekside Church Dallimonti’s DC Solar Dave Kelly, Real Estate Broker Diablo Valley Oncology Donald W. Linck II, DDS Downtown Pleasant Hill Dr. Bob Schaefer Chiropractic & Weight Loss Flaskerud - RE/MAX Today East Bay Residential Realty Hagin’s Automotive Hammer’s Heating and A/C Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital Hire My Husband Hitchcock Realty Home Detailers Housekeeping

Jennifer L. Martin D.D.S. Kinder’s Kobe Japan Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian Church Law Office of Daniel L. DuRee Lemonade Accounting Les Schwab Tires, Martinez Linda J. Weihofen, Reverse Mortgage Lindsay Wildlife Museum Main Street Martinez Matthew C. Rinn, State Farm Insurance Martinez Furniture Co. Maureen Ingalls - RE/MAX Accord Molino’s Ravioli Factory Mosquito Squad Moulding Company

Music Encounter Nor-Cal T-Shirts Pacific Urology Paddock Bowl Pleasant Hill Chamber of Commerce Pleasant Hill Chamber Green Business Committee Pleasant Hill Coin & Jewelry Pleasant Hill Rec & Park RehabCare Samuels Construction Senior Helpers Shell Western States Credit Union Suzanne Looker, Pacific Union International UPS Store- Arnold Drive Waters Moving and Storage Youth Homes Thrift Shop

Fall Cleaning Special

11/30/13

Page 40

www.ourcommunityfocus.com

November 2013