November 2015 Community Focus

Pleasant Hill • Concord • Martinez • Lafayette • Walnut Creek

COMMUNITY

FOCUS ourcommunityfocus.com

IN THIS ISSUE: • MUSIC TO THEIR EARS • VETERANS DAY PROGRAMS • THANKSGIVING FENG SHUI

NOVEMBER 2015 Reaching Over 50,000 Homes & Businesses

Julie Says

Blame it on Peter Dukes

independent & locally owned

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COVER:

College Park music teachers Jorge Jimenez (center), Alexa Tsarnas and Bruce Rockwell.

PHOTO BY: Susan Wood Photography

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INSIDE

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to

Battle of the Creek

25 Time to Plant

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Local Real Estate

21 On the Stage

30 TwoLegged Heroes

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6680 Alhambra Ave. Box #132 Martinez, CA 94553

925-335-6397

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BY JULIE ROSS

Welcome to November, full into the fall season. Shorter days, colorful leaves, and welcome, cooler nights are upon us.

You might have noticed something else sneaking into our autumn experience.

Just take a look at my routine for today: Breakfast: Pumpkin bagels with pumpkin cream cheese • Pumpkin waffles • Pecan pumpkin instant oatmeal • Organic pumpkin toaster pastries • Pumpkin cranberry scones • Non-fat Greek pumpkin yogurt • Pumpkin spice granola Morning Activity: Carve turkey designs on large orange pumpkins and artfully arrange mini-pumpkins on the porch.

Lunch: Honey roasted pumpkin ravioli • Pumpkin spice rooibos tea (That’s all; still full from that big breakfast.)

Snack: Pumpkin tortilla chips • Pumpkinspiced pumpkin seeds Afternoon Activity: Research what “Pumpkin Pie Spice Cookie Butter” is, and how to use it.

Dinner: (Skipping the main course; going straight to dessert.) Mini ginger pumpkin ice cream mouthfuls • Pumpkin macaroons • Pumpkin cheesecake • Assorted Belgian chocolate pumpkins • Dark chocolate pumpkin spice salted caramels • Pumpkin panettone (Wash down with an ice cold KBC Pumpkin Ale.) Evening Activity: • Have Mack and Wylie do tricks in ex-

change for pumpkin-flavored dog treats.

Bedtime: • Moisturize with pumpkin body butter and enjoy a cup of pumpkin spice chai.

Yes, all of the pumpkin products listed above, plus 25 more, are listed in last month’s edition of Trader Joe’s Fearless Flyer. What is going on?

It dates back to 2003, when Peter Dukes, a Starbucks product manager, led his team in developing the Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL), the company’s most popular seasonal beverage of all time.

Twelve years ago, there were not many pumpkin products in the marketplace. And now, just look at the explosion of “everything pumpkin.”

Peter Dukes, who currently holds the title of Director of Espresso and Brewed Coffee for Starbucks in the Americas, effectively opened the lid on Pandora’s Box of pumpkin spice. In this year’s press release, Dukes is quoted as saying, “When you taste PSL, it tastes just like fall.” He did not add, “So let’s just put pumpkin spice in a whole bunch of random products and make everything taste like fall,” but he might as well have.

I will say there is one place where pumpkin pie spice can’t be beat. And that of course, is in pumpkin pies. Enjoy all this pumpkin madness while you can.

Next month, it will be “everything mint.”

Happy Thanksgiving!

You can reach Julie at julieakross@ comcast.net

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On the evening of November 20, the Betti Family and #HERSMILE 501(c)(3) nonprofit present their VIP Twilight Gala Fundraiser, beginning at 6:30pm, at the Oakhurst Country Club in Clayton. Tickets are now available for this very special event in honor of Jenna Betti’s Sweet 16th Birthday.

Jenna Betti passed away in March of 2014 from a tragic accident. The #HERSMILE charitable foundation’s mission is to bring hope, strength and inspiration to families that have been thrust into the unthinkable loss of a child or young families coping with the untimely passing of a parent. The organization is honored to present Will Tran, of KRON 4 News, as the event’s master of ceremonies. Mr. Tran’s spirit and energy will set the stage for an event with the finest party qualities.

The entertainment stage is also honored to present, straight from Austin, Texas, Taylor Rae Stearns, an exceptionally talented singer/songwriter and 2014 American Idol contestant. Enjoy her Alicia Keys and Nora Jones inspired music while you walk the gorgeous venue, enjoying your specially selected food and wine pairings. The evening will then shift into high

gear when one of the most in-demand bands for high-end specialty events hits the stage. Pop Rocks has joined stage performers such as Bret Michaels, Sugar Hill Gang, Sugar Ray, Tone Loc, and Coolio.

This band delivers hits, enthusiasm, and a fun spirit for a night to remember! The band stands out with an exceptional knack for bringing the crowd alive and leaving everyone in awe of their positive energy, excellent musicianship, and amazing show.

Purchase your tickets today and plan to have a meaningful, high-energy night while supporting a cause that helps people when life’s most tragic circumstances hit. A portion of your ticket may be taxdeductible. To order, go to #HERSMILE Twilight Gala or send your check care of #Hersmile, Cole Real Estate, 1135 Arnold Drive, #B, Martinez, CA, 94553.

Philanthropy Awards Waters Moving and Storage

After five years of honoring those who give of their time, talent, and treasure to the East Bay community, you’d think the well of exceptional honorees might be running dry. That could not be further from the truth.

On November 12, the East Bay Leadership Council will be at the Blackhawk Automotive Museum in Danville to honor an outstanding class of communityminded leaders who make the East Bay a more vibrant place to live and work.

A selection committee made up of local elected officials, community advocates, employer representatives, and nonprofit leaders reviewed more than fifty nominations submitted by nonprofits who shared personal narratives

explaining their contribution to the East Bay community.

Waters Moving and Storage, a family business in Martinez, was nominated by Peggy White of the Diablo Regional Arts Association and chosen as one of the honorees by the selection committee.

Peggy White highlighted Waters Moving and Storage’s thoughtful spirit and commitment to donating their services, materials, and use of their facilities to assist nonprofits in their endeavors. Over their 40-year history, they have proved time and again how they care about the East Bay community wholeheartedly.

For information about attending the event, visit tinyurl.com/eblcphilanthropy2015.

Veterans Day Programs & Observances

Local Observances

Year Round Support

Grace Presbyterian Program and Concert - Grace Presbyterian Church welcomes the public at 3pm on Sunday, November 8, to its free Veterans Day program and concert, featuring patriotic music by the Ashmolean Singers of Rossmoor. Following the program, there will be a reception in the Oak Room, with an opportunity to socialize and share experiences. Photos of Grace members, friends, and family who served their country will be on display. Grace Presbyterian Church is located at 2100 Tice Valley Blvd. in Walnut Creek. For more information, call (925) 935-2100.

Pleasant Hill - The County Veterans Monument, located in Pleasant Hill at the intersection of Boyd Road and Contra Costa Blvd, will be open for viewing on November 11 from 10am until 2pm to honor the service of local veterans. This is an informal observance without speakers and all are welcome. Recorded music will be played throughout the period, and small U.S. flags will be distributed to youth in attendance.

Martinez - We invite you to attend two Veterans Day ceremonies in honor and gratitude of veterans who have served our country. At 10am the Veterans Commission will host a ceremony at the Pioneer Cemetery on Carquinez Scenic Drive, and at 11am an extended ceremony will take place at the All Veterans Monument, at the corner of Alhambra Avenue and Berrellesa Street. The programs will include bagpipe music, prayer, flag raising, the Pledge of Allegiance, and Jennifer Oretel playing Taps. Martinez Veterans Chair Shane Bower will be the master of ceremonies.

Walnut Creek - Walnut Creek will honor those who have served our country on Wednesday, November 11, at 11am, at the Lesher Center for the Arts. There is no charge for admission. The ceremony will include a welcome from Walnut Creek Mayor Pro Tem Loella Haskew; a musical concert of patriotic songs, including a salute to all the branches of the armed forces, by the Walnut Creek Concert Band, under the direction of Harvey Benstein; an Honor Guard; and keynote speaker Lieutenant Colonel Andrew J. Frankel, who has deployed in support of Operations Northern Watch, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom. We hope you can join us in honoring all who have served. For further information, contact Walnut Creek City Clerk Suzie Martinez, (925) 943-5819 or smartinez@walnut-creek.org.

Every Veterans Day, we are prompted to pause and acknowledge US veterans. It is an important tradition our nation observes in honor and support of its service members.

Our country has learned many lessons from its past. The heartfelt gratitude citizens and fellow veterans demonstrate to those who have served is remarkable. It is also a time to re-evaluate the effort each of us makes to personally know, understand, support, and honor our military veterans throughout the year.

Consider supporting one or more of the multitude of organizations whose mission it is to assist veterans of all generations. They work to provide innovative approaches to a vital question: How can we honor and support US veterans, the men and women who sign their names on that dotted line and pledge with their lives to defend our lives through their selfless service and sacrifice?

Here are just a few ways: Blue Star Moms: Organizes multiple missions to support boots on the ground and veterans through Care Packages, Veterans Outreach, Wounded Soldiers, Operation Postcard & Holiday Hugs, and Gold Star Parents. www.bluestarmoms.org.

Sentinels of Freedom: Provides 2-4 year, multi-faceted scholarships to severely wounded, post 9/11 veterans who pursue higher education after transitioning from the military. www.sentinelsoffreedom.org.

Wounded Warrior Project: Honors and empowers wounded warriors. Fostering the most successful, well-adjusted generation of wounded service members in our nation’s history.

The Green Beret Foundation: Provides immediate and long-term support to our wounded, their families, and families of our fallen. www.greenberetfoundation.org.

Operation Second Chance: Supports veterans and their families by building relationships and identifying and supporting immediate needs and interests. Dedicated to promoting public awareness of the many sacrifices made by our Armed Forces. www. operationsecondchance.org.

Semper Fi Fund: Helps wounded warriors focus on recovery and fulfill basic needs. www.semperfifund.org.

Veterans Employment Committee: Assists Contra Costa veterans in securing employment by lobbying for legislative support, doing vigorous outreach to veterans and veteran organizations. www.vecofccc.org.

Excerpt from Colleen Vomund’s, “Making a Deliberate Choice to Honor and Support US Veterans.” Colleen’s husband, Mark Vomund, honorably served in US Special Forces for over 20 years; he was combat deployed and endured both injury and permanent disability.

Read her story online at www.ourcommunityfocus.com, originally printed in the Nov. 2014 Community Focus.

Dinner to Honor Patriots

The Walnut Creek Elks Lodge #1811 would like to thank all who have served military duty as well as local law enforcement, fire service personnel and their families. On Sunday, November 15, at 2pm (dinner at 4:30pm), we are serving a free thank-you dinner at our lodge for all active duty military, veterans, Blue Star Moms, Gold Star Moms, and city and county law and fire enforcement providers. Any non-military guests will be charged a small fee of $5.00 per person. All you need is a military I.D.; DD 214; Department of Veterans Affairs Card; city or county fire, PD, CHP, or sheriff’s I.D.; or to show up in uniform.

This is a family event, so bring your spouse and children for a relaxing afternoon of conversation, fine food, and meeting the Elks. The Elks are a Fraternal Organization dedicated to charity and veteran service; as long as there are veterans, we will support them.

Every service member (and child) will receive a thank-you gift to help you as we roll into the holiday season.

All we ask is that you call the lodge and make a reservation; let us know who you served with, how many are coming, a contact phone number, and how many will be under the age of 18 so we can plan the gifts. This will be an open-seating buffet type event, so plan early and get your reservations in, as this will fill up fast. (Servers will be available for those who can’t go to the buffet.)

For reservations, call 925-935-1811. Walnut Creek Elks Lodge #1811, 1475 Creekside Drive, Walnut Creek.

Painting Workshop

Sign up for a FREE two-day workshop and paint a self-portrait as a way towards self-expression and self-understanding.

The Contra Costa County Arts & Culture Commission offers portrait painting workshops to county veterans at no cost. Workshops take place in Martinez at ARTU4iA, a working art studio led by noted artist John Kleber.

Work with other Vets

Veteran and artist Geoffrey Meredith assists in workshops to help veterans of all services, all ages, and all service dates to network and tell their story. November 3 & 5,1 - 4pm; November 17 & 19, 6 - 9pm. No experience is required. All paint materials are supplied. Space is limited to 15 participants per session. Must be a veteran living in Contra Costa County. Register today at AC5.org. ourcommunityfocus.com • november 2015

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Estate Planning

Holiday Season Estate Planning Reflections

BY DANIEL DuREE

This month’s turkey and pot-pie fueled extravaganza, collectively referred to as Thanksgiving, marks the beginning of another holiday season and the winding down of yet another year. As we gather with our loved ones and reflect on 2015, it is the perfect time to consider the changes in our lives and how we have provided for them in our estate plan. This month I will talk about a few key areas to think about in the estate planning area that change over time as your family situation changes.

Is your successor trustee still the person you want it to be? Often, when children are young, parents will have a sibling or even a parent named as the successor trustee of their trust and also as guardian of any minor children. Over time, as the children grow older and become responsible adults, it is often better to make the children (who are usually the beneficiaries) the successor trustees. Also, think about whether your successor trustee has moved out of the area or is just not the ideal person for the job anymore.

Are there new family members for whom you wish to provide? Families grow and change over time and differ-

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ent members have different needs. Are there any new members of your family that were not included in your trust that you would like to provide for? It is not uncommon for specific gifts inside a trust to be used for educational purposes for younger members of a family.

Are all of your assets properly titled in the trust? I feel like a nagging parent bringing this one up, but it is truly the most important part of the estate planning process and it doesn’t end when you set up your trust. I recently assisted

a client with his father’s probate where there was a trust, but the largest asset by far (the house) wasn’t in it. There is no way around this except for probate. Have you moved, bought a new property, or refinanced? About half the time, in these circumstances, the property doesn’t end up in the trust.

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

Insurance News Open Enrollment - Don’t Delay

BY COLLEEN CALLAHAN

It is hard to think about Thanksgiving when Open Enrollment for individual medical insurance is here again. This is the time of year when it is important to consider how you have used your health plan during the past 10 months and how you think you will use it next year. It is important to take a look at the options available to you. Primarily, make sure the physicians you want to see continue to be contracted with the insurance company you select. It is important to remember you can obtain coverage directly with an insurance company OR through Covered California. It is also important to remember you are making this decision for the entire year. If you change insurance companies, make sure you pay the new premium on time and stop paying the old premium. It is nearly impossible to get a refund if you have paid

too much. If you miss a payment, it is also nearly impossible to get reinstated.

For those of you with a Bronze Level plan, it feels as if you really do not have insurance; the deductible is high, and you have to meet the deductible before you have coverage for an office visit or prescription medications. It is worth comparing the Bronze and Silver. The additional cost could be manageable; you will have a lower deductible and some coverage before meeting that deductible. It really is worth evaluating carefully.

If you plan to make changes, do it early; the lines and wait times for help when calling the insurance companies or Covered California will be long. Set yourself up with a cup of coffee, a good book (maybe something Michael Harris has suggested), start dialing first thing in the morning, and expect to wait and wait.

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

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Smart Tactics in a Slowing Market Keep the Seller’s Edge with Proactive Steps

BY GLENN ALLEN

As we round the corner towards the end of 2015, real estate markets are cooling down. The effects of slowing in the US economy, the reduction of first time buyers’ ability to purchase homes, and general economic uncertainty are all dampening the recent seller’s market.

With the median list price of properties up and inventories growing compared to earlier this year, there is definitely some cause for concern. Prospective home buyers have more homes to look at, and their

dollar doesn’t stretch as far as it did before.

With the added pressure of rising rates, they are bound to be more discriminating.

Don’t let this information dissuade you, though. You can still get the price you want; you just need to be smart about it.

Here are some proven ways to make your home stand out above the competition and give prospective buyers that extra incentive to make an offer on your home.

Enhance and Stage

The purpose of staging is to help the buyer visualize themselves in your home by creating an inviting and livable space.

Staging isn’t just beautification. Done right, it removes the obstacles that might

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trigger doubt and replaces them with solutions. For instance, investing in custom storage for a small but visible closet lets prospective buyers know that they will have enough space for their own things.

Some other tips are: • Repair cosmetic damage, like cracks in the drywall, chipped paint, or a broken porch railing.

• Make sure your whole house, including the windows, is sparkling.

• Remove the clutter.

• Create “spotlight zones” that suggest innovative uses for the space. For instance, create a home office in a hallway vestibule or underneath a stairway.

• Focus on curb appeal to make the buyer’s first impression a positive one.

Have a Pre-Sale Inspection Done

Making a pre-sale inspection of your property available to prospective buyers gives you a huge psychological advantage. Essentially, you are telling them, “I have nothing to hide.” It’s also a big advantage for you. The inspection may reveal problems with your home that you are unaware of. Knowing in advance what those problems are gives you the opportunity to address them before the property goes under contract, which can save you thousands of dollars.

Price Your Property Right

There are few cases where a seller

can afford to let their property just sit on the market, waiting for that perfect buyer. Most sellers need to make a quick sale. Moreover, properties that don’t sell within a month of being listed get “stale.”

Prospective buyers and their agents lose interest, showings go down, and the result may be one or more price reductions.

Listing at the right price involves extensive research into comparable properties in your area - and listening to your agent’s advice. Sellers can be their own worst enemies when it comes to pricing their home for sale, letting attachment to the property color their judgment. The agent is your trusted voice of reason.

Go with an Experienced Local Agent

Real estate experience matters the most in a changing market. I’ve had my eye on the East Bay real estate market swings for over 26 years, and I know how to act swiftly and decisively to get my clients the highest price possible.

To find out more about how to develop a winning strategy for your home, please contact me at 925.709.1000 or visit www.TalkToGlenn.com. You can also read more articles about staging and pre-sale inspection at www.GlennCF.com.

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Is the Housing Market Leveling Off?

Yes. Buyers who have been sitting on the sidelines for months or even years are beginning to catch a break. The real estate market is still thriving and sellers are still seeing great profits and multiple offers, but there has been a leveling off.

The local economy is benefitting from record low unemployment. Some markets with closer proximity to work, such as San Francisco and Palo Alto, are still too expensive for many, but this brings good news to sellers in surrounding areas where buyers will turn.

This year in late spring and early summer, the Bay Area reached pre-recession highs and double-digit appreciation, but in July and August sales in Contra Costa County dropped 14.5 percent.

That said, sales are still up 3.6 percent from last year and represent the highest sales in a three-month summer period since 2006, according to data from CoreLogic. The slow-down may have been attributed to the threat of rising interest rates that the Federal Reserve decided to hold off on for the time being. This has caused a resurgence in early fall inventory. With a stronger economy, low unemployment, and higher inventory, buyers have a better chance of buying their dream home.

Oddly enough, I’m still seeing many homes in the area with asking prices above fair market value and no comparable sales to justify it. I am beginning to wonder if homeowners are being given accurate market data. When the real estate market is in a state of flux or just beginning to transition, this is the most crucial time to price property correctly, especially this late in the year, otherwise, we face the holidays and the possibility of having to wait and try again in the new year. It is still absolutely possible to get top dollar and over asking prices with an effective pricing strategy. One of worst things a seller can do is price their home too high and have multiple price reductions, giving buyers the idea they can low ball. Overpriced homes will also scare away potential FHA and VA buyers

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who would have otherwise been qualified at the right price.

When the Federal Reserve finally makes the decision to raise interest rates, the market will change much more drastically. Rates have been kept at 0 to .25 percent as a way to help the economy rebound, and now that it has and is reaching a healthy level, normal borrowing costs will return. This could come as soon as December or March, so buyers and sellers should still strike while the iron is hot. FHA and VA buyers will also become more competitive players in the housing market when the interest hike is rolled out. This is why it’s so important to select your realtor carefully and not be afraid to ask questions. For most people, buying and selling real estate are the largest financial decisions we make.

For more up to date information and real estate expertise, trust Marson and Candelori. We are your Pleasant Hill neighbors and want you to love where you live.

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9

City of Pleasant Hill

Mayor’s Message

September was a busy month, but I did manage to sneak away for a wonderful cruise to Alaska to enjoy the beautiful and rustic scenery. I was even able to squeeze in an exciting day of fishing in Ketchikan. Back here at home, thanks to city staff, the Civic Action Commission and numerous volunteers, our 11th Annual Community Service Day was a great success. Volunteers spread across the city to work on several projects, helping our seniors, schools, and charity organizations. Food was collected for the Food Bank and bicycles were repaired and restored for those in need. Of course, the Lions Club was out in force cooking up a great pancake breakfast for all. Thanks for another successful Community Service Day!

I also had the privilege of representing Pleasant Hill on an economic development trip to China. I joined representatives from 15 different cities around the Bay Area, from Martinez to Menlo Park, in an effort to build the foundations for future economic relationships with local Chinese governments and businesses.

We traveled to Yangcheng and Chengdu, meeting with local government officials and business leaders and touring business and educational facilities. Among some of the communities, we started sister city talks as well as the initial stages of business exchange discussions. On October 14, a delegation from Chengdu traveled to the Bay Area and the discussion of future opportunities continued.

But, let’s not slow down. Winter is just around the corner, with El Nino bringing hopes of ending the drought,

possibly greater than we have seen before. In anticipation of a much-predicted ‘El Nino’ winter, city maintenance staff has been active over the past several months inspecting creeks, ditches, storm drains, and catch basins to ensure they are clear of debris and obstructions.

Most of the creeks through the city are on private property, and homeowners whose property backs directly onto a creek are responsible for keeping those portions of the creek free of debris and overgrown vegetation. The city mailed out notices during the summer reminding all homeowners of this requirement.

Of the approximately 500 affected homes, around 97% are in compliance with creek clean-up efforts. The city is now working with the remaining few homes to ensure that mitigation efforts are completed prior to any heavy rainfall this winter.

Maintenance staff is also working with Civicorps (formerly known as the East Bay Conservation Corps) to finish cleaning up all publicly owned creek areas. Volunteers from Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) will also assist staff in filling 2,000 sandbags for emergency situations. Sandbag stations will be set up November 2 in the parking lots at City Hall (100 Gregory Lane) and the Community Center (320 Civic Drive).

Residents may fill their own sandbags at these locations, with a limit of ten sandbags per household. Get the winter preparation done early.

Don’t make it all work and no play.

Join me for family fun at the 8th annual Light up the Night Holiday Celebration

SUBMIT A STORY Have something to share?

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november 2015 • ourcommunityfocus.com

Ken Carlson, Mayor of Pleasant Hill

in Downtown Pleasant Hill on December 2. This is a great way to get the holidays started. Arts and crafts vendors will help in holiday gift buying or decorating, and Santa is all set to arrive and join in the many festivities in Downtown Pleasant Hill, including the lighting of a 25-foot decorated tree in the small plaza next to Pasta Pomodoro at 6pm. Music, dance performances, and caroling will also be

on stage at two locations on Crescent Drive. There will be free horse drawn carriage rides; free hot chocolate, coffee and cookies; music, Studio A Dancers, and caroling on two stages; an “Elf on the Shelf” treasure hunt; free pictures with Santa; holiday arts & crafts fair; and tree lighting at 6pm.

Join me Downtown to kick off the holiday festivities!

Public Meetings Architectural Review Commission Nov. 5, 19 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane, Small Community Room, 5pm. Contact: 671-5209 Civic Action Commission Nov. 4 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane, Small Community Room, 6:30pm. Contact: 671-5229 City Council Nov. 2, 16 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane, Council Chambers, 7:30pm. Contact: 671-5229 Library Task Force Nov. 9 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane, Large Community Room, 11am. Contact: 671-5229 Planning Commission Nov. 10, 24 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane, Council Chambers, 7:30pm. Contact: 671-5209 Education Commission Nov. 25 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane, Community Room, 7pm City Office Closed on Nov. 11, 26 and 27.

For Confirmation Visit: www.ci.pleasant-hill.ca.us

Chamber Calendar 11/4 – Member Orientation 5-6:30pm, City Hall Large Community Room.

11/10 – Ribbon Cutting 5:30pm, Skin Deep, 200 Gregory Lane, Suite B-101, Pleasant Hill.

11/11 –Chamber Office Closed for Veterans Day 11/12 –Business Mixer 5-7pm, Chateau III, 175 Cleaveland Rd, Pleasant Hill.

11/17 – Ribbon Cutting 5:30pm, Mountain Mike’s Pizza, 30 Golf Club Road, Pleasant Hill.

11/19- Hospice of the East Bay Tree of Lights Ceremony 6:30-8pm, Oak Tree on Gregory Lane next to Pleasant Hill Park. Reception in Teen Center, immediately following.

11/26-11/27 – Chamber Office Closed for Thanksgiving.

11/30 - Green Business Committee 4-5pm, Daily Digital, 3440 Vincent Road, Suite I, Pleasant Hill.

No GAC meetings until January 2016 OFF THE GRID Food Trucks Wednesdays, 5-9pm, Trelany Road, Pleasant Hill.

Now-11/14 - Farmers’ Market Saturdays, 9am-1pm, Trelany Road, Pleasant Hill.

City of Pleasant Hill

Pleasant Hill City News Pleasant Hill Reads!

This is the 4th year the library has organized Pleasant Hill Reads with the aim of getting whole families and residents of all ages together to share one wonderful story in the month of October.

Pleasant Hill Community Library Manager Patrick Remer and Library Assistant Will McCall handed out over 800 copies of Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library, by Chris Grabenstein, to every 5th grader in Pleasant Hill’s public schools. This was made possible with the generous support of the Friends of the Pleasant Hill Library, Foundation for Pleasant Hill Education, Rotary of Pleasant Hill, Pleasant Hill Education Commission, and Sequoia Parent Association.

Remer said, “My favorite part of handing out books is always the ‘No way!’ moment, when you first tell kids they can keep the book. Pleasant Hill students are very lucky to have access to a wonderful array of stories through their school libraries and public libraries, but there is still something special about building your own personal library and having a book you can call your own.”

The library held several exciting events to tie in with the story including a library “lock-in” with the author after hours, where readers enjoyed a pizza party and Skyped with author Chris Grabenstein. There was also a citywide scavenger hunt where participants could download and print a scavenger hunt inspired by the book. The coordinates and clues lead you back to the library where a secret stash of prizes was hidden. Remer added that, “The scavenger hunt has been a big hit with the classes. We’re always trying to figure out how to bring a story alive for readers, and ‘gamification’ is one way to give kids a way to live out a narrative and interact with puzzles the way the characters do. That’s basically what the author has done with this story: turned an adventure into one big game you can read! Also, kids love riddles and can’t resist a good mystery with prizes at the end: one boy solved it the afternoon after I visited.”

City News Continued per Bowl Week. The program is for communities that are not in San Francisco, but part of the larger Bay Area community and provide opportunities to participate in regional celebrations leading up to Super Bowl on February 7. Catalano said, “ There are special privileges for the first 50 cities to sign up as a super community, and we were one of the first 50. On December 19, there will be 50 days until Super Bowl 50, and on that day residents will be invited to participate in the Golden Wave, a virtual wave that will ring the Bay Area. Each community will receive an appointed time to invite residents to step outside and light up the night sky with their mobile phones or flashlights and carry the wave of golden light across the Bay Area.” More information on Pleasant Hill’s appointed time will be available in the December issue.

Cupcake Closure

Sinful Bliss Cupcakes on Crescent Drive in Downtown Pleasant Hill has closed. According to a sign posted on the window the owners are relocating back to the Midwest after 5 years at that location.

A Helping Hand

College Park students taking part on Community Service Day to clean up their campus.

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Community Library Manager Patrick Remer with 5th grade students in Mrs. Hewgley’s class at Valhalla Elementary.

Annual Light Up the Night

City staff is currently working on details for the annual Light Up the Night in Downtown Pleasant Hill, scheduled for Wednesday, December 2, 5 - 8pm. You can join Santa and the community in lighting up Downtown Pleasant Hill for the holiday season. The event features a holiday crafts fair, carriage rides, caroling, an “Elf On The Shelf” treasure hunt, and Studio A dancers on the Plaza Stage.

City Part of NFL Super Community Program

At the October 19 city council meeting, City Manager June Catalano discussed the “Super Community” program, an NFL program that provides Bay Area communities with information and guidelines for hosting and promoting local events during Su-

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11

City of Martinez PHOTO BY STAHLBERG

Mayor’s Message

If you ask any mayor, councilmember, or city manager what they would most like to have more of at their disposal, I bet it would be more resources to provide municipal services. Resources include income from taxes and fees, as well as investment in the community by businesses and individuals. In order to increase available resources, most cities have at least one employee dedicated to economic development. Unfortunately, Martinez does not currently have such a position, but it will consider an economic development program after the first of the year. In the meantime, Martinez relies on the Martinez Chamber of Commerce, Main Street Martinez, and the efforts of individual council members and the city manager to promote economic development when opportunities arise. My recent trip to China with other Bay Area mayors was one of those opportunities.

About six months ago, Pittsburg Mayor Pete Longmire and San Pablo Mayor Kathy Chao Rothberg announced at the Contra Costa Mayors Conference that they had both recently returned from a trip to China that was organized and hosted by a non-profit known as China Silicon Valley. They briefly reported on their trip and the economic benefit it could have for each of our cities. They extended an invitation to all Contra Costa mayors to

be part of an autumn trip planned for late September. After speaking with Pete and Kathy, I decided to contact China Silicon Valley for more information. The following week I met with Victor Wong, president of the organization, who outlined the goals and itinerary for the autumn trip, and I decided that attending would be an economic development opportunity for Martinez.

On September 19, a group of fourteen Bay Area mayors, accompanied by business leaders and the staff of China Silicon Valley, traveled to Beijing and on to Yancheng. The group included Tim Grayson of Concord, Ken Carlson of Pleasant Hill, Brant Anderson of Lafayette, Ken Chu of Moraga, Robert Storer of Danville, Eve Philips of Orinda, and the mayors of Stockton, Menlo Park, Sunnyvale, Alameda, and Morgan Hill.

Our meetings in Yancheng were the first in a series with Chinese city and county mayors, high-level party members and business leaders. Each of the Bay Area mayors had the opportunity to introduce their city to our Chinese hosts and provide written material (translated to Mandarin) for their review. We also toured many manufacturing plants and technology and data centers. Most days started with breakfast meetings, followed by visits to several parts of the host city, and ended

Thank you for voting us your local favorite!

Public Meetings City Council Meeting Nov. 4, 18 City Hall, 525 Henrietta Street, 7-11pm. Contact: 372-3500 Design Review Meeting Nov. 25 City Hall, 525 Henrietta Street, 4-5pm. Contact: 372-3500 Planning Commission Meeting Nov. 10, 24 City Hall, 525 Henrietta Street, 7-11pm. Contact: 372-3500 Zoning Administrator Meeting Nov. 4,18 City Hall, 525 Henrietta Street, 4-5pm. Contact: 372-3500 City Offices Closed: Nov. 11, 26 and 27 For Confirmation Visit: www.cityofmartinez.org

Chamber Calendar

11/11 – Office closed for Veterans’ Day.

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for our last series of meetings and facility tours. We then traveled to Hong Kong, where we caught our flight home to San Francisco.

Since returning home, many people have asked if I felt the trip was successful and beneficial to Martinez. I believe that the contacts we made with business and government leaders in China will be of some benefit to all of the cities that participated, as long as we continue fostering the relationships that have just begun. Just a few weeks after returning home, I was among a group of several mayors who helped welcome Chengdu City Mayor Tang Liangzhi to the Bay Area.

I expect this to be the first of many visits from our new friends in China.

11/7 – Hospice Tree of Lights Saturday, 5pm. Morello Avenue, north of Arnold Drive.

Join us for the 29th 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.

JANET CONCEPCION-MANALO, D.D.S.

12

with formal banquets hosted by the local Chinese government.

After two days in Yancheng, we traveled to Shanghai and on to Chengdu, in the far western portion of China. While in Chengdu, we were honored guests at the 2015 Western China Overseas High Tech and High Talents Conference. This conference focused on emerging technologies and attracting talented professionals to China to contribute to economic growth and improvement. Sustainability and cleaning up the environment was a major topic.

After five days in the Chengdu area, about half of the Bay Area mayors group left for home and the other half, including me, traveled on to Guangzhou (Canton)

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

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Rob Schroder, Mayor of Martinez

11/12 - Chamber Mixer Thursday, 5:30-7:30pm. Co-Hosts: Kiwanis of Martinez and Les Schwab Tire Center at the Kiwanis Youth Center, 750 Allen St., Martinez. Great networking, food, and fun. Bring a raffle prize and have your business announced.

11/26 & 11/27 – Office closed for Thanksgiving holiday.

City of Martinez

Martinez City News Susana Park Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

A ribbon cutting was held on October 20 at Susana Park, with the mayor, city council, parks and recreation, marina, and cultural commission in attendance. Susana Park is the latest Measure H project accomplishment since the passing of the Bond in 2008. The one- acre park, located on Susana Street and Estudillo Street, has a performing stage, picnic area, park benches, lighted pathways, and imported trees from all over the world.

Martinez Ranked 30th As a Best City

In WalletHub’s 2015’s Best & Worst Cities for California Families, Martinez ranked 30th out of 240 California cities. WalletHub analysts searched for the Golden State cities that are most conducive to family life. They compared 240 cities in total across 22 key metrics. Their data set ranges from the number of attractions, to the number of pediatricians per capita, to unemployment rate. Martinez also ranked 5th in Most Playgrounds per Capita, 36th in Education, Health & Safety, and ranked 29th in Affordability. Visit wallethub.com/edu/ to view other rankings.

Small Business Saturday is November 28

When you shop at local small businesses on Saturday, November 28, you help the community grow. Stop by the Main St. office between 10am-2pm on November 28 to pick up a complimentary shopping bag and a passport. Take the passport with you to visit at least four of the participating businesses and they will place a stamp to show you were there. Then turn in your completed passport to any of the participating businesses. Be sure to print your name and phone number clearly and you will be entered into a drawing to win a $50 downtown gift card!

Visit mainstreetmartinez.com for participating businesses.

New Leadership

Chamber Hires New Executive Director

The Martinez Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors is pleased to announce the hiring of Julie Sabbagh as its new executive director. Julie comes from the Vacaville Chamber of Commerce, where she held the position of director of operations for four years. Prior to the chamber, she was the office manager at the Vacaville Conference & Visitors Bureau.

In her new role as executive director, Sabbagh will focus on economic and business development while looking at innovative ways to enhance the chamber’s programs and services.

Chairman of the Board Adam Hoffert stated, “Julie is a wonderful hire because she has the knowledge, skills, experience, passion and commitment to lead the chamber forward.”

Sabbagh is a graduate of the Western Association of Chamber Executives Chamber Academy and currently serves on their

Emerging Leaders Council. “I’m excited to meet with chamber members and to connect with local business owners,” said Sabbagh.

Sabbagh plans to hit the ground running. Among her first priorities are meeting with city officials and area business leaders.

“I really want to build on Chairman Adam Hoffert’s efforts in enhancing the local business climate and promoting the City of Martinez as a tourist destination. Members will begin seeing a more visible chamber.

We’ll be expanding our reach by more actively utilizing media outlets and looking at options to enhance our members’ benefits,” said Sabbagh.

“I also believe that one of the greatest ways we can help members to grow their businesses is by advancing Martinez as a community. Through collaboration, Martinez will become a must visit, must relocate and must do business with city,” she added.

Upcoming Holiday Events

Lighting of the Tree of Spirit: The magical glow of the evening’s festivities begins at 5:30pm, on the corner of Court St. and Pine St., with the twinkling of hundreds of lights on the Tree of Spirit. With a flip of the switch, a special guest will put the razzle-dazzle into this majestic tree. Music and the Wishing Bowl return.

Children’s Light Parade: The family-friendly light parade begins at 6:30pm at City Hall and ends on Main St. at Ferry St. Everyone is invited to participate and free parade lighted wands will be handed out to the first 600 children that register in advance for the parade. Musicians, performers, lighted vehicles, and floats are needed! Little ones, decorate and drive your electric ride-on vehicle, tricycle, or wagon in the parade. To register for the parade and light wand, or for more information about the above city-sponsored events, call (925) 372-3510.

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13

City of Walnut Creek

Mayor’s Message A Walker’s Paradise

Recently, it was stated that Walnut Creek has more miles of trails per capita than any city in Contra Costa County. I can’t verify that statistic, but it sounds right. In addition to about 100 miles of named trails in our open space areas, there are several regional trails that go through our city. They are the Iron Horse Trail, the Contra Costa Canal Trail, the Briones-Mt. Diablo Trail and the Ygnacio Canal Trail. Then, there are some local trails, such as the Sugarloaf-Shell Ridge Trail and the Shell Ridge-Lime Ridge Trail.

When combined with our great weather and our very walkable downtown, Walnut Creek truly is a walker’s paradise.

The city continues to work on making walking safer, particularly near schools.

This year, significant enhancements near the Buena Vista School were completed, and the city is working with the county

and the City of Lafayette on extending the Lafayette-Moraga Trail to the Iron Horse Trail. The Pedestrian Master Plan is in the works, with the intent to make walking in downtown Walnut Creek even safer.

Over the last year, I have led a monthly mayor’s walk. As with my first time as mayor in 2012, I wanted to highlight how very walkable our community is and encourage people to walk. Walking is one of the keys to leading a healthy and active life.

The first was a four-mile walk in downtown Walnut Creek and we visited many of the residential construction sites that had raised a lot of concern in our community. Some of those projects are now done, and a couple of others are nearing completion. There was a lot of public interest, which is a very positive thing, so we did that walk twice in the same day.

Public Meetings City Council Meeting Nov. 3, 17 Council Chambers, 1666 North Main Street, 6-11pm. Contact: 943-5819 Design Review Meeting Nov. 4, 18 Council Chambers, 1666 North Main Street, 7pm. Contact: 943-5819 Planning Commission Meeting Nov. 12 Council Chambers, 1666 North Main Street, 7-11pm. Contact: 943-5819

Bob Simmons, Mayor of Walnut Creek

Several of the walks, including the last one in October, visited parts of our marvelous open space areas. Most of those included a portion of a nearby residential area. In one of the open space walks, we visited the Concrete Arrows, a remnant of a nationwide construction project from the 1920s for lighting a path for airplanes to deliver mail from coast to coast. In another, we visited a labyrinth and went through two tunnels under Ygnacio Valley Road.

We also walked between Sugarloaf and Shell Ridge Open Space areas and helped dedicate the new pickleball courts in Rudgear Park. One walk was along

Geary Road west of Buena Vista to highlight the nearly completed reconstruction of Geary Road. This was the final action in a 30-year effort to make traffic flow more easily by dedicating a center lane for left turns only making it more pedestrian and bicycle friendly.

Over 400 people have joined me, and we have walked almost 50 miles together.

The most populous was the walk into the Saranap area, when we had more than 130 people with us. I am sometimes asked which walk I enjoyed the most. My answer is usually the same: whatever walk I am taking.

A Record Year!

The October 10 Community Service Day had a record 1,300 volunteers helping at 49 different projects. 34 volunteers of all ages helped clean the equipment at the All Abilities Playground at Heather Farm Park; 175 volunteers cleaned an estimated 15,000 children’s and teen books in the libraries; 26 teens painted a mural for the teen area at the Ygnacio Valley Library, and 140 volunteers at four parks spread the equivalent of 73,000 square feet of mulch on old ornamental lawns. This work will reduce the city’s water consumption by 2.1 million gallons per year.

In the downtown, 19 volunteers cleaned and prepped the surfaces of 10 utility boxes, which have now become the “canvas” for new artwork, and at the Trinity Center (homeless respite center), 20 volunteers helped spruce up the building and landscaping. Nearly 400 volunteers spruced up the campuses of 11 of our public schools. We collected 6,500 pounds of food for the needy.

For Confirmation Visit: www.walnut-creek.org

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Volunteers helping clean books at the downtown Walnut Creek library on Community Service Day.

City of Walnut Creek

Walnut Creek City News Future of Aquatics at Heather Farm Park

In 2014, the city council directed staff to seek a partner to finance, construct, operate, and maintain a new aquatic center in Heather Farm Park and work with the city to serve future needs of this aquatics community. The Clarke facility was designed and built in the early 1970s and houses three swimming pools. The age and condition of the facilities, including the bathhouse, present a challenge to the future of the city’s aquatic programs, and the public’s ability to enjoy the aquatic experience is diminished due to the condition of the amenities.

The city issued a Request for Qualifications earlier this year, and the council formed an ad hoc committee to guide the review. The city’s vision is to identify a long-term community partner that will deliver high quality and sustainable aquatic services for the next 30-plus years, including developing the concepts for a future facility with limited or no city capital contribution. The committee identified two potential partners for the council to consider: Harley Ellis Devereaux and Walnut Creek Aquatics Foundation.

At the October 6 city council meeting, Harley Ellis Devereaux and Walnut Creek Aquatics Foundation presented their proposals. “At some stage there is going to have to be some type of agreement coming back to the council for approval. We want a clear scope of work, a clear timeline, developing cost numbers and information on the funding sources for construction. Both proponents also raised the issue about stepping in early to operate Clarke, and I think we should also ask that that be coming back.”

In a 4-1 vote, with Mayor Simmons dissenting, council identified Harley Ellis Devereaux, an architecture and engineering firm based in Michigan, as the preferred partner for a future aquatic facility in Heather Farm Park.

Lemonade Coming to Walnut Creek

The Los Angeles-based restaurant chain is moving into the former La Boulange space at 1384 Broadway Plaza in spring of 2016. According to their website, Lemonade caters to people looking for a quick lunch or a healthy grab-andgo dinner for the family and serves “seasonal California comfort food.” The menu includes Marketplace Vegetables, with nearly 20 options that are designed to mix-and-match, a variety of hearty braised meats, sandwiches, and six seasonal lemonade flavors daily. Guests grab a tray and choose from a buffet of prepared hot and cold dishes displayed behind the counter and select a portion size of 1, 2, or 3. Director of Marketing JoAnn Cianiculli said they chose Walnut Creek because “It’s a beautiful community and I think people will really appreciate our food and what we do--it’s so seasonal and Californian. I think it’s the perfect fit!” she said. Prices range from $11 to $30.

Meanwhile, California Pizza Kitchen will remain open at its current location at 1120 Broadway Plaza while they work on their relocation. Plans are in the works to build a new restaurant just up the block at Newell and North Main but keep their current restaurant at Broadway Plaza open until the move next spring.

Patrons will be able to view the renderings and see the progress in the coming months.

City News Continued

Leisure Sports Inc., the owners of Club Sport Valley Vista, intends to lock the doors on January 31, 2016. Neighbors believe their motivation is to keep the club vacant until neighbors complain and the city is forced to rezone it to allow a housing development.

Valley Vista is a 6-acre facility and home to the Barracudas swim team, and the 19 tennis courts serve the De La Salle and Carondelet tennis programs, a junior tennis program serving over 120 youth as well as 77 adult tennis teams, 5 Junior Leagues, and 2 major Sectional Championships.

Nancy Juracka, a club member, said, “I am a senior and could attend other gyms for free, but this club to me is worth every penny that I pay for it. It is hard to explain, but there is such a feeling of family there. It makes me feel sad that we will lose previous recreational space that we will never be able to get back.

So many families have their children in swim team, and this is such a wonderful social outlet for families to meet each other. Many times before, the owners tried to rezone, but the city would not approve. It now looks like they are just trying to force their hand by vacating and letting it become an eyesore. I am not sure what the city can do at this point unless the members come up with an offer that the owners will take.”

A Change.org petition has been formed under “Committee to Save Valley Vista Swim and Tennis.” As of this printing, there were over 1,500 supporters. The property is zoned for recreation in the city’s general plan, and the city council would have to approve a plan amendment to permit houses there. Leisure Sports Inc. has continued to own and manage the club for the past 21 years. There are 19 lighted outdoor tennis courts, a complete fitness facility, with state-of-the-art fitness equipment, a group fitness classroom, and an Olympic-sized pool. One petitioner said, “The city council has made very sound and thoughtful decisions in so many ways that make Walnut Creek stand out in the Bay Area as an exceptional community in which to live. I trust that the city council members will again tap into their wisdom in this situation and support leaving this location a recreation only zone.”

Valley Vista Swim and Tennis Club On Friday, October 2, over 200 people came out to the corner of Oak Road and Treat Boulevard to protest the closing of ClubSport Valley Vista Tennis and Swim Club in Walnut Creek early next year. ourcommunityfocus.com • november 2015

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P L E A S A N T H I L L R E C R E AT I O N & PA R K D I S T R I C T

2 8 T H A N N UA L

Holiday Festival

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T he magic continues!

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December 9 | 5:00-8:30 pm

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Pleasant Hill Community Center 320 Civic Drive

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PH Rec & Park

Announcements and Events

Winter Break Camps for Youth & Teens Keep your kids active and engaged over Winter Break: KIDSTOP Winter Break Camp (Grade K-5), Youth Tennis Camp (6-12 yrs.), and Winter Break at the Teen Center (Grade 6 & up; siblings Grades 3 & up). Visit pleasanthillrec.com for details.

NBA/WNBA Youth Basketball League (CoEd - Grades 3-5 & 6-8) 8 weeks starting 1/9. Saturday games, 10:30am-3pm, PH Education Center Gym, 1 Santa Barbara Rd. Learn skills, coordination, agility, team work, and sportsmanship through practice drills. Register online.

Teddy Bear Tea November 4, 3:30-4:30pm, Community Center: Perera Pavilion. Enjoy tea and cookies with parents. Young guests receive Teddy Bear. Dress-up clothes encouraged. Online pre-registration required. Parents must also register. Admission: $9.50/$8.50 (Dist. Res.) FREE! Holiday Boutique & Craft Fair November 21, 9am–2pm, PH Senior Center.

Get an early start on holiday shopping at the Holiday Boutique. Choose from a huge selection of handmade items. Over 40 craft vendors!

40th Anniversary! Turkey Trot Trail Run (All ages) November 22, 9am-1pm. Experience the tradition of an 8.4-mile race in the beautiful hills of Briones Regional Park.

Winners take home a turkey! Not for beginning joggers. Rain or shine. Pre-registration ends 11/11. Register: Call (925) 682-0896 or email sgeorge@pleasanthillrec.com.

Mark Your Calendars! Breakfast with Santa December 5, 8:30-9:45am or 10:1511:30am, PH Senior Center, Chateau Room. Join Santa for a morning of live entertainment, holiday cheer, and pancake breakfast. All attendees must register. Preregister online by 12/3. Admission: $10.50/$9.50 (Dist. Res.)

A F REE evening of holiday fun! * Visit the Frozen©-inspired kingdom with 2 princesses * new LEGO© winter village * live music * arts & crafts * food * holiday marketplace * Santa * train rides * and lots more!

For details, call (925) 676-5200 or pleasanthillrec.com

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november 2015 • ourcommunityfocus.com

PH Rec Holiday Festival 2015 - FREE Wednesday, December 9, 5–8:30pm, PH Community Center, 320 Civic Drive. Don’t miss the most magical holiday festival in Contra Costa County! Meet Santa and TWO Frozen©-princesses. Enjoy NEW! LEGO® winter village, youth performances, arts & crafts, new Holiday Express train, and holiday marketplace. Dinner available for purchase. Sponsored by Republic Services.

New Year’s Eve Celebration (21+yrs) December 31, Chateau Room, Senior Center, 233 Gregory Lane. Dance your way into 2016! Live music by Fog5! VIPs enjoy delicious pre-party dinner. No host beer, wine, and cocktails. Photo booth. Traditional balloon drop. Space limited. Tickets available 11/1 at pleasanthillrec.com. VIP Ticket: $85 pp, Dance Party Ticket: $50 pp.

New Winter/Spring SPOTLIGHT Arrives Early December Get a jump-start on your new year’s resolutions!

Discover Downtown Martinez www.MainStreetMartinez.org

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JOIN US FOR SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY

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A big day for Small Businesses!

It’s the fifth annual Small Business Saturday® when people across the country come out and shop to support their favorite local businesses.

Look for special incentives offered by American Express when you use your American Express card to shop small.

Shop downtown Martinez for a unique holiday shopping experience! www.MainStreetMartinez.org

SAT. NOV. 28TH

ourcommunityfocus.com • november 2015

17

Feng Shui by Maria

ONLINE EXTRA Find an extended article and more on the Bagua Map at

Blessings in Time for Thanksgiving “Be thankful for what you have and you’ll end up having more…” ~~ Oprah Winfrey

Oprah speaks wisely about all the blessings that surround us. Feng Shui utilizes your positive connection to your environment to help clear the way for blessings to enter your life.

What better time to celebrate your blessings than at Thanksgiving, when people gather with friends and families to share love and feelings of gratitude.

Your home is a vessel for all these good feelings, therefore the more harmonious and welcoming you make it, the more you let the blessings in. As we begin to plan for entertaining, it’s important to also prepare your home’s Feng Shui energy. Preparing a home for holidays implies a clean home with a fresh energy, so clearing clutter and cleaning will be the initial desired Feng Shui steps.

Thanksgiving is represented by

the Earth Feng Shui element, or the earth bounty. This element is represented by shades of yellows, ceramics, and rectangular shapes.

In Feng Shui, as in nature, each element is enhanced by a supporting element. Earth is enhanced by the Fire element, represented by shades of red, cone shapes, and representations of animals, people, or fire. An example of combining the two elements is using candles as the fire element and a variety of earthenware containers as earth element. All of these as part of your home’s décor will bring positive Feng Shui energy to your Thanksgiving and strengthen the feelings of being grounded with family and

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We provide comprehensive, state of the art treatment options for children and adults right in office.

We offer but are not limited to: • Children’s dentistry with kids movies, prize box, friendly and compassionate • Cosmetic porcelain crowns, white fillings, bleaching • Root canals, extractions, implants • Dentures, implant overdentures • After work and weekend appointments available • New patients complimentary xrays and exam

925.689.1020

www.pleasanthillfamilydentistry.com • phfdent@gmail.com 18

november 2015 • ourcommunityfocus.com

www.ourcommunityfocus.com friends.

These gatherings usually take place in the dining room around a bounty of food, good will, and laughter. Our dining rooms become an oasis for nourishing and renewing our bodies, hearts, and spirits.

Since the dining room plays a key role in sharing your Thanksgiving meal and sharing your blessings, there are a few enhancements that help make your dining experience a pleasant and enjoyable one. There are also a few things that are not recommended.

Here are a few general Dos and Don’ts to ensure your dining room is following the Feng Shui guides of comfort and safety: • Comfort is inherent in the positive flow of Chi. Make sure your furniture is comfortable. If not, replace or pad the chairs, and make sure each chair has a pleasant view.

• Ensure safety by making sure that there are no sharp edges on the table or chairs. Soften sharp edges or glass tables with cloths or table runners.

Round and oval tables are more Feng Shui friendly.

• Make sure your dining area is de-

fined enough to have its own identity; screens, plants, lighting, area rugs, and furniture placement can help define the space.

• Choose art that relaxes and inspires you and is congruent with the Bagua Area* in which the dining room is located.

Dining Room Don’ts: • Mirrors, especially large ones, can over activate a room that is meant to be tranquil, and make your guests uncomfortable. If possible, avoid mirrors in dining rooms, or break the reflection with plants, screens, candles and vases.

*The Feng Shui Bagua (Ba-gua) Map is represented as a grid of nine sectors.

The Bagua comes from the Chinese philosophy, “The I Ching,” and literally means “eight trigrams,” with the center being for centering and grounding.

Maria McCullough, a Benicia resident, is the owner / founder of Feng Shui

by Maria (www.fengshuibymaria.com) and is a speaker and educator with over 20 years of experience. She specializes in residential, landscape, and business consultations. She is a graduate of the Western School of Feng Shui and has personally trained with Terah Kathryn Collins, founder of the Western School of Feng Shui, specializing in Essential Feng Shui® and author of numerous books, including “The Western Guide to Feng Shui.”

DVC Hall of Fame

Just Move

BY STEVE WARD, HOF FOUNDER

DVC’s Athletic Hall of Fame (HOF) has inducted former NFL football players and Major League baseball players, among other sport greats. More significantly, however, we have inducted former studentathletes who became college graduates, teachers, business owners, coaches, fire department captains, military and government personnel, health professionals, and even a university chancellor.

The Diablo Valley College’s Viking have a storied athletic history, from its athletic beginnings in the fall semester of 1950, when it was called East Contra Costa Junior College, to its present, and it continues to be written every year.

Since founding the HOF in 2005, I have been blessed by many who have given money or their time, and I am especially grateful to the HOF Executive

BY KEVIN ARNDT, FORMA TRAINER

Al Davis, the legendary coach and owner of the Oakland Raiders used to have a saying, “Just win baby!”

His motto was winning trumped everything else. This same principle can be applied to getting in shape and feeling better. Just move. Most of us feel the only way to get into shape is to go to the gym. Although there are endless benefits of going to a gym, there are endless ways to get into shape that don’t always include lifting weights or getting on a treadmill. I should be telling everyone that going to a gym and hiring a personal trainer is the only way to go, but I’ve realized that doesn’t work for everyone.

A couple of years ago my wife and I decided to go on a hike in Tahoe. We had a 1-year old at the time, so we wanted to do something that was relaxing and had nice scenery. The objective wasn’t to get a great workout, but rather just be outside. Well, the hike ended up being insanely longer than what was described, about 5 miles longer, in one direction. But it was a gradual incline, with some obstacles to climb, jump, and dip under. This ended up being one of the best workouts we have ever had; more importantly, is was some of the most fun we’ve ever had.

Honoring Sports Heroes

Committee who helped rediscover our past. This academic school year marks the 65th year of intercollegiate competition at DVC!

The 2016 inductees are: Chappie Lisle, former head tennis/volleyball coach, and asst. football coach (’64-’84); Al Lewis, men’s basketball (‘85-’87); Chuck McInnis, baseball (‘85-’86); Kristen Elms, women’s soccer (’08-’09); Paul Gambs, baseball (’88-’89); Kim Bierwith, women’s swimming (’08 &’09); Jennifer Kawakami, women’s volleyball & basketball ’08-’10); Ann BurrisSchultz, women’s track and cross-country (’90-’92) and Lauren McCullough, women’s swimming (’13) (posthumous).

You are invited to attend the award banquet on Feb 18, 2016, at DVC’s Norseman Restaurant. For tickets, contact Steve Ward at 925-969-2762 or sward@dvc.edu Reservations required by January 8.

DVC Athletic News

BY MATT SCHWAB DVC Womens Soccer - The gritty Diablo Valley College womens soccer team forged to a 2-2 draw against visiting Northern California power San Joaquin Delta in the Big 8 Conference on Oct. 16. The Vikings (5-3-5, 2-2-3, 7 points) twice overcame one-goal deficits against Delta (11-1-2, 4-1-2, 14 points), which had shut out 11 of its first 14 opponents. Hannah Mazolewski scored on a penalty kick in the 82nd minute to tie it 2-2, after Karla Ramos was dragged down in the box. A clutch performer, Mazolewski also scored the winner in the 90th minute in a 2-1 triumph over American River on Oct. 9. Making the Delta draw even more impressive, the Vikings were playing without brilliant center back Katelynn Cunningham and central midfielder Icela Rodriguez, who were both out with quad strains. After Delta took a 1-0 lead on a goal in the 27th minute, Julia Curran equalized on a gorgeous goal made possible by a beautiful cross from Hailey Sigur, who beat a defender on the right and sent the ball to the far post. Curran volleyed it into the back of the net. Curran also had two assists in a 4-2 loss to host Modesto Junior College on Oct. 13. Scoring for DVC were Gabby Silva and Ashley Scannell in the 82nd and 87th minutes, respectively. Next home games are November 6 at 3pm vs. American River and November 10 at 3pm vs. Modesto.

DVC Football - The Vikings (3-3, 1-0 in Bay 6 Conference) dominated on defense in a 33-0 blowout of De Anza (2-4, 0-1) at Viking Stadium in the conference opener on Oct. 16. Known for its prolific passing attack, DVC limited the Dons to just 11 first downs and 115 yards of total offense. De Anza was 0 for 9 on third-down conversions. State-leading quarterback Drew Anderson was 21-for-36 passing for 356 yards and four touchdowns against De Anza, with scoring strikes to Marcus Armstrong-Brown, CJ Cornwell, Nick West and Dominic Paoletti. D’Amora Cooper ran for 114 yards on 26 carries. Kory Lamberts had a team-high four total tackles, Marcus de la Pena had an interception, Kyle Trego recovered a fumble, and Brandon Brown belted field goals of 44 yards and 29 yards. With 62 receptions this season, Cornwell is tops in the state by a whopping 14 catches. Cooper, averaging 100.7 yards a game, has moved up to eighth in the state in rushing with 604 yards on 110 carries.

Last home game is November 6 at 7pm vs. San Mateo.

A Simple Principle

People that know me well know I love structure. I love to have a workout designed for four months in advance and stick to it. I operate best that way, or I used to. That hike opened my eyes to realizing some of the best workouts can be a walk with a loved one, a bike ride, or playing with your kids.

Next time your kid wants to play with you, play. Do what they do. Run, jump, fall to the ground, chase “bad guys,” be a superhero.

Whatever they want to do. I guarantee it will be one of the best workouts you do.

Most people sit in an office all day staring at a computer, and then they go to the gym for an hour and stare at a TV. Some lift weights, some do classes, but not nearly enough go outside. Sometimes the only time people go outside is when they are walking to and from their car. If you are getting bored at the gym and becoming demotivated, try going outside and walking, do pull-ups at the park, or take a bike ride with a loved one.

This is a good time to mention that Forma has bikes you can use for free. There are different ways to get into shape; just look for them.

In the end, we are all aware of the positive aspects to being in shape. Don’t feel like there is only one way to do it. Be creative.

Enjoy movement. It doesn’t always have to be walking on a treadmill and watching the news. Movement can be fun, free flowing, and exciting. Just move.

Falcon XC at Mt. Sac

The College Park varsity squads traveled to LA to the worlds largest XC meet - Mt. Sac. Both teams competed strongly against the southern teams and many personal bests were recorded. The Falcons will next compete at DVAL league meet then onto North Coast in Hayward on November 21. ourcommunityfocus.com • november 2015

19

Falcon Polo Seniors

Local

Standouts

October 23 marked the last home game for these College Park seniors. While they still have league tournament to prepare for, they celebrate their season record of 12-7, and 3-1 in league play. Most having played 4 years together, these Falcons would agree their fondest memory and biggest accomplishment was beating their nemesis and friendly rival, Alhambra High in sudden death on October 13.

Following on the heals of their second Junior National Title in July, Deer Valley’s Jordan Ewert and his fellow Pacific Rim 18-1 teammate Campolindo’s Joe Worsley led the USA’s Under19 Youth National Volleyball Team to its best ever finish at the Fédération Internationale de Volleyball (FIVB) Under19 Boys World Championships in Resistencia, Argentina, this summer. The USA Youth Volleyball Team finished with a record of 6 wins and 2 losses, going undefeated in pool play before falling to Russia and Brazil in the playoffs.

Ewert led the Under 19 Team USA on offense with 77 kills, while Worsley, who is the team’s libero, spearheaded the squad’s defense with 69 digs and 70 perfect passes during the 10day competition in August. The Under 19 US Team finished 7th overall, improving 9 places over 16th place finish in 2013. This fall, outside hitter Jordan Ewert began at Stanford, while setter Joe Worsley headed off to the University of Hawaii, where he is expected to start. Submitted by Peter M. Crowley.

Pictured (L to R): Josh Deilke, Caden Tattenham, Cole Hutslar, Ryan Jones, Bryce Ulrich and Johnny Kaminek.

Reckless Wins PHMSA’s U12 Girls team, Reckless, placed 1st in the Dublin Fall Classic 2015 Gold / Silver U.S. Club Tournament. The girls gave a tremendous effort and played extremely well in the championship game, beating Danville’s Mustang Fire team in a shutout 2-0 game.

CP Hall of Fame College Park awarded their newest inductees on October 8 at the annual Hall of Fame Banquet. Jerry Pollard, director and founder of the Falcon Foundation, said, “There was a really cool moment in the proceedings when CP Pep Band, 40 strong, under the able direction of band leader Jorge Jimenez, played “Anchors Away” and inductees Whipple, June and White (who were appointed to the U.S. Naval Academy from the class of 1971) entered the room.

The following night, all inductees were introduced to the homecoming crowd at DVC prior to the game, and the evening ended with a tailgate after-party at Magoo’s Restaurant in Pleasant Hill. Saturday, a campus tour of the new stadium at College Park was given, followed by a catered lunch from Wingstop of Pleasant Hill.

Top row (L to R): Coach Denis McCarthy, Laura Howard, Casey Briethaupt, Lauren McAssey, Kira Funk, Kaitlyn Chang, Taylor Chow, Gigi Betti and Coach Bob Puljiz, Bottom row (L to R): Mallory McCarthy, Mia Puljiz, Kaeli Griffin, Joselyn Hom, Sierra Barker, Ingrid Decesaris, Jessica Cortez and Riley Lins. Submitted by Christina McCarthy. Photo Credit: Shannon Smith

Got Candy? Want Cash?

The orthodontics office of Jennifer Martin will be having their annual Halloween Candy Buy Back Friday, November 6 between 3pm and 5pm, at 401 Gregory Lane, Ste. 126, Pleasant Hill.

The candy will be donated to the Blue Star Moms and distributed to troops serving our country.

Anyone can participate. Call if you have any questions, 925.676.8485.

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november 2015 • ourcommunityfocus.com

Pictured in back row (L to R): Dave Whipple, Mick Sytkowski, Dr. Carl June, Norm White, Cross Country and Track and Field Coaches Steve Nesheim and Chuck Woolridge. Front row (L to R): longtime “Voice of the Falcons,” Oscar Rodriguez, and AllAmerican golfer Audra Kepler. Photo by Susan Wood.

Friday Night Lights Northgate Owns the Creek

BY PAYTON MANNIE, Northgate High School Sophomore

There is nothing better than Friday Night Lights.

The stage was set on the football field for the rival high school teams of Walnut Creek. The Northgate Broncos and the Las Lomas Knights went head to head in the annual Battle of the Creek on September 18. As both student sections chanted back and forth, the tension was building on the field. The game was close all the way up until the end. The final score was 41-35 Northgate. We own the Creek! I had the opportunity to interview the head coach of the Broncos, Mr. Ballard, and junior Brian Moorhouse, who plays tight end and linebacker. I asked Mr. Ballard what the Battle of the

Creek meant to him and his players, and he said, “This has a big tradition every year and it’s a big deal to the city of Walnut Creek and, of course, both the schools. These boys grew up together and it’s nice for them to have bragging rights over their friends.” When I then asked him how it felt to beat Las Lomas, he said, “Every win is a great feeling.

This time it felt a little more special, especially because last year the Knights beat us. It felt great to get the revenge we deserved.” The students of Northgate were eager for this game to start.

As a student at Northgate, I had a great time being a part of the loud and excited “12th man.” I asked Mr. Ballard what he thought about the 12th man and he remarked, “It’s the best I’ve seen in a few years. It was so loud with all the yelling and chanting, I couldn’t even hear through my headset.” Brian Moorhouse added that the 12th man

did a great job of pumping up the whole team. “The 12th man definitely helped them come out with the win.” I asked him how he and his teammates were feeling after the big win and he replied, “Everyone was feeling on top of the world. It was a great team win and I was happy to be apart of it. Winning this game meant a lot to the seniors,

especially. They had never beaten Las Lomas before. One of their team goals was winning the Battle of the Creek this year. It was nice seeing all our hard work pay off.” This win was definitely one to remember. Northgate’s final varsity DVAL game is on November 6 against Mt. Diablo before North Coast Section (NCS).

Special Event, Aviation & Adventure Photographer in Pleasant Hill, CA

San Francisco Bay Area photographer, Susan Wood chases light from land, sea & sky, delivering high quality images to corporate and non-profit clients, families, and individuals. Shooting with passion and high energy, her ability to “capture the moment” shines through in the wide variety of photographs she delivers.

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

ourcommunityfocus.com • november 2015

21

Welcome Pastor

Read My Mind

St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church in Pleasant Hill welcomed Reverend Dr. Ernie Hess as pastor on November 1. Dr. Hess and his wife, Carol, come to St. Andrews from Covenant Presbyterian Church in Atlanta, Georgia, where he was pastor. Carol was on the faculty of Chandler School of Theology at Emery University. Carol and Ernie have been in Atlanta for the last nine years. They have three children: Nathan, Marie, and Paul. Pastor Ernie and Dr. Carol are graduates of Stanford University and Princeton Theological Seminary.

Pastor Ernie is an avid guitar player, singer, and songwriter. He put together a band and led a contemporary service at the Presbyterian Church in Haddon Heights, New Jersey.

Ernie and Carol are excited to be moving back to the Bay Area, where Carol grew up and still has family. Her mother lives in Stockton, and their daughter, Marie, and her husband, Mitch, live in Ripon. St. Andrew’s has excitedly looked forward to their arrival and all the good works the congregation will accomplish in the coming years.

St. Andrew’s is located at 1601 Mary Dr., adjacent to Gregory Gardens Elementary School. Reverend Jim Crothers started the church in his Gregory Gardens home in 1951.

The first church building was dedicated in March of 1953 and the Celebration Center was built in 2010. St. Andrew’s has always been active in the community, with eight members receiving “Citizen of the Year” awards, including a former city manager and two former mayors.

BY MICHAEL G. HARRIS, OD

The Wright Brothers is the latest bestseller by Pulitzer Prize winning author and historian David McCullough. It is a masterfully told tale of two uneducated “bicycle mechanics” from little Dayton, Ohio, who changed the world and the course of history by building the first manned flying machine.

I have a real passion for books about aviation, but I’ve never read a more insightful and delightful book on the subject than McCullough’s. You might think you know the whole story of the Wright Brothers, but you haven’t heard everything about their daring deeds until you’ve experienced their story through McCullough’s wonderfully written saga.

He describes these minister’s sons and their family with such affection, depth, and splendid detail that they come alive on every page of this short, yet brilliant, account of their epic adventure. McCullough’s unbelievably thorough research includes thousands of letters, meticulously comprehensive notes on every aspect of their invention, and spectacular photographs, all over a century old.

McCullough follows their “Dayton Flyer” from its earliest imaginings to its first manned flight at Kitty Hawk on December 17, 1903, and from their flying demonstrations at home and abroad to the landmark patent cases that finally vindicated them as the rightful inventors of human flight.

Not only is this book a superbly described account of the invention of the airplane, it is one of the best written.

McCullough has a special way of putting pen to paper. Through his eyes, even the complex mathematics of how these homegrown geniuses determined the proper shape of an airplane wing comes alive.

By virtue of their Ohio upbringing, these self-made “workingest boys” had

New Beginnings for St. Andrews

Volunteer Drivers Meals on Wheels Needs Help

BY LEIGH SHUGHROU

Home delivered meals can be the difference between a senior living at home, or remaining in a costly hospital or skilled nursing facility. Meals on Wheels and Senior Outreach Services (MOWSOS) makes living at home a reality by delivering 760 meals each weekday. And they need your help.

Ten meal delivery routes are currently unfilled and in need of volunteer drivers.

160 home bound seniors are depending on MOWSOS to find people willing to donate two hours a week to feed a hungry, frail Contra Costa neighbor.

Ana is one of the clients on an open route in Antioch. She is 87 years old and confined to a wheelchair after suffering several strokes and two falls last year. “I initially tried to cook for myself, but burned a few pots, which worried my family,” says Ana. “The phone call to MOWSOS saved my life.” They provide me with a nutritious, balanced meal so that I don’t have to put myself in danger any longer.”

If you or a group of your friends are able to deliver meals once a week for two hours, please contact Carol Louisell at clouisell@mowsos.org, or call 925-937-8311.

Bingo Bash

Soroptimist Host First Annual

The Soroptimist International of Martinez is holding their 1st Annual Bingo Bash on Saturday, November 14, at the IBEW Local Union 302 Hall, 1875 Arnold Drive, Martinez.

The doors open at 6pm and bingo begins at 6:30pm.

The cost is $30.00 for ten games including the blackout. The grand prize for a lucky ticket holder is a four-day, three night stay for two as the guests of Ken and Gay Gerlack at their Lake Tahoe home. This exciting prize includes a room with a private bath, meals and entertainment.

Seating is limited. For reservations, tickets or additional information contact June Rogers at: juner@ibewlu302.com.

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©

The Wright Brothers and Other Bios unfailing intellectual curiosity, grit, and the self-confidence to become the first in flight. And this was no simple task, as we learn from their numerous encounters with adversity and near disaster.

But no matter what went wrong, they found the inner strength and courage to continue on undaunted. It is a real treat to watch their story unfold through the eyes of this “master storyteller.” (For the story of a modern genius, read Ashlee Vance’s Elon Musk, the insightful look at the visionary who brought us Tesla and SpaceX and will one day take us to Mars.)

I wish I could’ve gotten as excited about H.W. Brands’ biography Reagan: The Life. Brands manages to capture Reagan’s unique charm and personality, but fails to prove his main contention that “Reagan was one of the two great presidents of the twentieth century, a true peer to Franklin Roosevelt.” Yes, Reagan faced economic problems and the Cold War. But most historians agree these difficulties pale in comparison to FDR overcoming the challenges of the Great Depression and World War II. Many scholars have rated Teddy Roosevelt and Harry Truman higher than Reagan.

Regardless, Brands’ portrayal of this “Brated” actor’s ascent to the presidency offers some interesting insights.

You can skip Tom Brokaw’s memoir, A Lucky Life Interrupted, the story of his recent battle with multiple myeloma.

Yes, he led a most fortunate life until this extremely deadly form of cancer interrupted it, but he seems to lose some perspective talking about his own woes.

Brokaw is much better at telling other people’s stories, as he did in The Greatest Generation.

Brent Schlender and Rick Tetzeli’s bio, Becoming Steve Jobs, is billed as an insider’s view of Jobs’ evolution from a “reckless upstart into a visionary leader.”

Yes, it provides a few interesting revelations, such as Tom Cook’s offer to donate a portion of his kidney to the desperately ill Jobs, but it adds little to Walter Isaacson’s splendid biography of the Apple founder.

A Local Jewel

Keeping Art Alive in Martinez

Another little-known treasure in Martinez is the Martinez Art Gallery. It began in 2007 as a non-profit co-op and currently has 20 working member artists. To become a member, artists submit their work for jurying. Some of the gallery artists are world renown and their work is collected internationally. The gallery is always staffed by one of the artists to offer information and answer questions.

Previously located on Main Street, the gallery moved around the corner to 630 Court Street last January, and will be moving to 610 Court Street soon. “As a non-profit, we have our share of business challenges. The further we are from Main Street, the more our walk-in traffic decreases. It’s really important for us to build community awareness,” said Cathy Riggs, artist and one of the gallery’s founders.

Like many retail businesses, a majority of the gallery’s sales occur over the holidays. Every November the gallery sets up a mini-show and boutique with locally made creative gift items. “We have a wide range of artwork and crafts, as well as prices, so there is something for everyone,” added Nancy Robinson, painter and gallery member. Everything is one-of-akind and items include jewelry, paintings, prints, cards, art glass, and photography.

All prices include sales tax, and 15% of sales are donated as art grants to Martinez schools. A layaway plan is also available.

Every two months the gallery curates a new show with an opening reception.

The theme of the next show is “Celebrate Martinez.” The public is invited to the

opening on November 13, from 6 - 9pm.

Refreshments will be served, and artists will be on hand to talk with visitors.

The Martinez Gallery is open MondaySaturday, 11am - 3pm, with extended holiday hours. 630 Court St. (moving to 610 Court St. soon), Martinez. 925-370-6270, http://gallery.martinezarts.org; Martinez Gallery is on Facebook.

MARTINEZ ART GALLERY

Unique,Creative Gifts Find the perfect something: Prints • Jewelry • Paintings Glass art • Photographs

STAT Med Expands

Now Serving Pleasant Hill

Studies show as many as 70% of emergency room visits are not life-threatening and can be treated in an urgent care setting with appropriately trained physicians, notes Dr. Samaniego, an emergency medicine specialist who founded STAT MED Urgent Care.

Following the success of its first location that opened in 2014 in downtown Lafayette, STAT MED is now expanding its communityfocused practice to Pleasant Hill and Concord on the corner of Contra Costa Blvd. and Sunvalley Blvd.

“Our goal has been to provide a more advanced level of immediate care, along with the outstanding healthcare experience that patients deserve,” says Dr. Samaniego.

This is why STAT MED is staffed only by ER trained professionals, making it uniquely able to handle diverse medical needs: routine care as well as more severe injuries or illnesses, and everything in between. Dr. Allan Drabinsky, another of STAT MED’s experienced emergency medicine physicians says, “Overwhelmingly positive and consistent feedback from our patients has confirmed we are meeting that need for immediate care without having to go to a hospital emergency room, which can be traumatic in and of itself – regardless of the severity of the injury. I am delighted we can deliver ERquality care in a calm, comfortable, private environment, where clients can avoid the chaos, crowds, long waits and higher costs of a typical ER visit. STAT MED is staffed with

the same quality of physicians and assistants that you’ll find in the ER, and we offer the same medications and diagnostic tools.” As healthcare reform continues its transformation, Dr. Samaniego notes that ERs will only become more crowded and more expensive.

STAT MED is equipped to deliver a full range of medical care with no appointment or referral required. Online registration is available to expedite your visit, though walkin wait times are typically minimal. Patients can expect to have one-on-one time with the physician and access to lab tests and X-rays performed on-site, allowing for convenient, well-coordinated care. STAT MED also specializes in sports medicine, providing prompt team physicals and sport injury treatment, as well as travel medicine/immunizations and occupational medicine/work injury requirements.

Both STAT MED locations are open 7 days a week, 365 days a year, Monday through Friday from 8am to 8pm, and weekends and holidays, 9am to 5pm. Two locations are available: downtown Lafayette, two blocks from BART, behind the Lafayette Mercantile Building (970 Dewing Ave.) and at the southwest corner of Sunvalley Mall, on the border of Pleasant Hill/Concord (901 Sunvalley Blvd.). STAT MED is a participating provider for most insurance plans. Please visit www.statmed.com for detailed information on the services offered.

Visit our special holiday boutique with gifts made by local artists.

15% of all sales is donated as art grants to Martinez schools.

630 Court Street, Martinez (moving to 610 Court St. soon)

925-370-6270

Check our website for holiday hours

maagallerymartinez.weebly.com ourcommunityfocus.com • november 2015

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Music to Their Ears

The Pioneering Music Program at College Park

BY JAKI JONES

A trio of teachers is working towards building a comprehensive music program at College Park High School. With the increase in music classes, a new instructor, and two added piano classes this year, there are also growing pains that stem from progress and expansion.

In only six years, the music program has flourished under the direction of instrumental music teacher Jorge Jimenez and choral teacher Bruce Rockwell, in their 5th and 6th years, respectively, of teaching at the high school. Rockwell oversees a beginning mixed choir, an all-girls treble choir, a concert choir, and beginning guitar classes.

“When I got that guitar class in the schedule for the first time in spring 2014, there were 120 students who signed up to be in it and only space for 60,” he said. In anticipation of another wave of interest, a second beginning guitar class was added this school year.

Jimenez directs a thriving instrumental music program. While he is the instructor for the audition jazz ensemble, audition wind ensemble, middle band symphony, and chamber orchestra, he also developed the curriculum for and piloted an AP Music Theory class, currently in its fourth year. “We 24

are the only high school in the district that offers AP Music Theory. This year I have 27 students in the AP class,” he commented.

The notion of adding a piano class to the music program’s repertoire began last spring, and both Jimenez and Rockwell worked to receive the necessary approvals from the district and school administration.

Due to its popularity, the school was able to accommodate two classes in the new piano lab, where every student has their own keyboard. The classes are currently in the piloting stage until approved by the school board this spring, making the course available to any district high school that wants it.

Enter another addition to the burgeoning music department: Alexa Tsarnas. With a Bachelor of Music degree in music education from Sonoma State, Tsarnas took over the introductory groups this year: freshman concert band, beginning jazz band, beginning string orchestra, and the two beginning piano classes.

Creating a comprehensive music program that exceeds other high schools in the district is likely to happen. “Bruce and I have really been looking at making the entire music department—choral and instrumental—more comprehensive, rather

november 2015 • ourcommunityfocus.com

than separate entities. Encompassing the more general music classes, like guitar and piano, will reach the student population that maybe did not start an instrument in elementary school, or didn’t join choir, or has limited musical background, but is willing to explore these two classes,” said Jimenez.

Rockwell would like to grow his program to add a 4th choir. He will spend the next year or two in that endeavor and also work on offering an advanced guitar class next school year. “It really has a transformative effect when you have a large portion of your student body in the music program.

Right now, around 24% of the student body is taking music classes at College Park, and we could certainly grow that to 30% pretty easily. It just improves everything; it improves test scores, attendance, and school culture. That is a really big reason to grow the program,” he explained.

The music building, however, has reached capacity and according to Jimenez, with the increasing strength of the music programs in the middle schools and high school, the solution is to build a performing arts center at College Park. Rockwell added, “We’ve outgrown these facilities

Photography by Franci

to where we really need more classroom space, a theatre and more ensemble space, practice rooms, etc. We have the ideal square footage here for the kind of theatre we need.” Several Falcon parents have expressed interest in forming a committee to look into grant sources. “This is a good ten-year project. It’s such a huge ball to get rolling that we have to start now and begin the research. No high school in our district has this,” said Jimenez, who is afraid it may come to the point where he has to turn away kids because there is no more room.

In the meantime, the teachers foresee a curriculum of multiple sections and levels of orchestra, piano, and guitar, and want to expand the program to include music technology courses, theatre tech, and an honor choir. Jimenez is optimistic and affirmed, “We will make things work as the growth happens. Give us a few more years, and we’ll have a fourth music teacher here.”

There are two upcoming music con certs: The Renaissance Holiday Feast for choir on November 13 and 14 at College Park and the Candlelight Holiday Concerts at St. Andrews Presbyterian in December that combine both choir and instrumental music.

On the Stage At Alhambra The Alhambra High School Drama Club’s fall production is Almost, Maine by John Cariani. The play is comprised of nine short plays that explore love and loss in a remote, mythical, almost-town called Almost, Maine.

Performances are at 7pm on Wednesday, 11/4; Thursday, 11/5; and Saturday, 11/7, and at 2pm on Saturday, 11/7. Tickets are available at Alhambra’s online web store, ahs-martinez-ca.schoolloop.com. Students and seniors: $8 presale, $10 at door; adults $10 presale, $12 at door. Drama Foundation is hosting a party for Drama Club alums, including a ticket to the matinee and a pizza party to follow for $25.

At College Park College Park High School’s Drama Department presents the hilarious classic comedy, You Can’t Take It with You. A very unconventional family shares an evening with their opposites, the snobbish and conservative parents of the boy who wants to marry the daughter of the other family.

Disastrous hilarity ensues when the evening literally explodes!

Performances are: Wednesday, 11/4, with a matinee at 4pm; Friday, 11/ 6, at 7pm; and Saturday, 11/7, at 7pm. All shows are held in the College Park High School multi-use room, 201 Viking Drive. Tickets are $5 students and $10 general admission. For more information, call 925-682-7670 x3245.

At Northgate The Northgate Marching Band took first place in their division at the 45th Annual Santa Cruz Band Review on October 17. In addition, Auxiliary took second place in their division. According to instrumental music teacher Greg Brown, it is the first time Northgate Marching Band has

placed first at the annual band review in the 19 years he’s been at the high school.

Northgate High School Drama Club & Production Workshop present: Neighborhood 3: Requisition of Doom by Jennifer Healey. A dark performance where Suburban parents find their teenagers addicted to an online horror video game that uses a GPS system to map out their own neighborhood. As the line blurs between virtual and reality, both parents and players realize that fear has a life of its own. Viewer discretion advised.

Performances are at 7:30pm on Thursday, 11/5; Friday, 11/6; and Saturday, 11/7, and at 4pm on 11/8. Tickets: $6 presale, $8 at the door.

At Las Lomas Las Lomas’ High School drama department is recreating Arthur Miller’s The Crucible. Director Taron C. Hensley explains that Arthur Miller’s “timeless play reveals for us one of the uglier sides of human nature.” Motivated by fear, chaos, and the possibility of being accused next, the people of the town of Salem, Massachusetts, turn against each other, which leads to disastrous consequences.

Las Lomas’ production features sets, lighting, sound, costumes, makeup, props and publicity designed and built by over 50 students enrolled in the school’s two stagecraft courses taught by Hensley and Ms. Meredith Tate.

Performances are at 7:30pm on Thursday, 11/5, through Saturday, 11/7, and Thursday, 11/12, through Saturday, 11/14, in the Las Lomas theatre, 1460 South Main, Walnut Creek. $8 students and seniors, $10 general admission.

AHS Homecoming

Kayla Porche, Jacob Armosino , Matthew Regner & Peyton Ferrer. Photos by Carmina Regner

Queen - Adria Trees and King- Joey Miller. Photos by Carmina Regner

CAHSEE Suspended

On October 7, Gov. Jerry Brown signed Senate Bill 725 into law to temporarily suspend the administration of the California High School Exit Exam (CAHSEE). As a result, starting in 2016, high school students will no longer need to pass the CAHSEE to graduate. It also suspends the exam as a graduation requirement for the 201617 and 2017-18 school years, allowing educators and lawmakers time to decide whether to require a new test or use other measures for graduation.

In addition, the new law allows former high school students who failed the exam as far back as 2006 to be awarded diplomas, as long as they passed all of their required classes.

The change has to do with aligning CAHSEE with Common Core standards and partly to help relieve pressure on students by reducing the number of standardized tests they must take to graduate. The law goes into effect January 1, 2016. ourcommunityfocus.com • november 2015

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Bulldogs Help Out Run a Success Donations Aid Middletown Mustangs

Shell/MEF 5K/10K Shatters Records

The Valley Fire disaster devastated the town of Middletown and disrupted the lives of its students. Martinez resident and Alhambra High School senior Alicia Marazzani was so moved to help her peers at Middletown High School (MHS) that she organized a collection drive to benefit them. After seeing stories on the news, Alicia reached out to Bill Roderick, the principal of MHS, who lost his home in the fire, as did about a quarter of the students. Collection barrels were placed at all the Martinez School District schools, Martinez businesses, and several Mount Diablo district schools. The goal was to restore student life to normal, with donations aimed at high school kids.

Items collected for the donation drive included school supplies, gift cards for clothing and department stores, and even semi-formal dresses. Alicia and her Alhambra leadership classmates delivered three truckloads of donations and $1900 in gift cards to Middletown, where they saw the devastation firsthand and met with their leadership peers at MHS. The entire school was touched by the inferno, although the school grounds were left unscathed. Alhambra students heard stories of personal loss and how the Mustangs of Middletown are bouncing back. As students headed back to Martinez, they were left with the impression that this could happen anywhere.

Due to the fires, the Middletown homecoming game and dance were re-scheduled, but Alhambra Leadership went back up to Middletown in late October with a van full of fancy dresses and semi-formalwear to help make this year’s homecoming dance festive and memorable.

The recent 13th Annual Shell/MEF 5K/10K Run for Education shattered previous records in fundraising and participation. The Martinez Education Foundation (MEF) brought in $100,000 and drew close to 900 registrants to the 5K and 10K events. On a beautiful, sunny, fall morning, most participants either ran or walked the 5K route through downtown Martinez, while over 100 runners challenged themselves with the 10K route that winds up the hills on Carquinez Scenic Drive. Joel Timbrell of Martinez came in first in the men’s 10K category, and Rebecca Patrick of Martinez came in first in the women’s category. Will Allan of Martinez won the men’s 5K competition, and his wife, Lisa Allan, won the women’s event.

More than 100 people volunteered to make the run a success, including students from Martinez Junior High School and Alhambra High School and many Shell Refinery employees. The Alhambra High marching band performed in the downtown plaza before the race started.

Major event sponsors were: KevComp, PG&E, Brinderson, S&S Supplies & Solutions, Petrochem Field Services, Air Products, Dunkin & Bush, Philip Services Corp., VanDePol Petroleum, CS Marine Constructors, Baker Hughes, BASF, Delta Tech, Cat Spec, Turner Huguet Adams and Farr, Overaa, and Republic Services.

MEF is a community-based partnership of energetic volunteers committed to providing resources to enhance education opportunities for our children. Thank you to all runners, walkers, volunteers, and sponsors for making this a huge success!

Race Results: 5K Run/Walk Top 10 Results: Will Allen, Martinez, 16:33; Travis Selby, Nevada City, 20:42.2; Lisa Allen, Martinez, 20:43.3; Donovan Heinlein, Pleasant Hill, 20:45.7; Graham Manning, Martinez, 20:54.7; Alex Bullington, Antioch, 20:59; Tony Scardina, San Jose, 21:12.4; Josh Armosino, Martinez, 21:47.8; James Mason, Martinez, 22:23; Lev Afonine, Martinez, 22:36.2.

10K Run Top 10 Results: Joel Timbrell, Martinez, 37:00.9; Kevin Selby, Nevada, City 37:52.9; John Conrad Viano, Martinez, 38:59.2; Gusty Maat, Martinez, 41:58; Kevin Searls, Martinez, 42:12.6; Mark Ross, Martinez, 44:25.1; Rebecca Patrick, Martinez, 44:50.3; Kelly Osborne, Pleasant Hill, 45:39; Skyler Allio, Martinez, 46:53.1; Colby Thompson, Martinez, 46:54.1.

Rocketship Charter Denied

On October 21, the County Board of Education voted 4 to 1 to deny the Rocketship charter elementary school’s petition in Concord’s Monument corridor. Reasons included concerns about sufficient staffing to educate its English language learner (ELL) population, Rocketship’s use of non-credentialed teachers, and a lack of clarity surrounding its finances.

Pleasant Hill Middle School hosted the public hearing prior to the vote. The auditorium was packed, and the Mt. Diablo Education Association (MDEA) members wore yellow “NO Rocketship” t-shirts. Along with letters and e-mails, they vocalized their support of MDUSD. The MDUSD board initially rejected the Rocketship petition on August 10. Rocketship can now choose to appeal the decision at the state level.

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november 2015 • ourcommunityfocus.com

In the Mix

Susan Wood, Local Photographer

BY PAUL COTRUVO

No doubt about it, there is a connection between the power of music and photography. Even after the music has stopped, the image capturing that special moment remains. Over the years, photographers have captured some of the most famous images in history. Annie Leibovitz has shot some of the most famous rock and roll pictures of our lifetime, and she holds the distinction of being the last person to professionally photograph John Lennon. He was shot and killed five hours later. A few years ago, I had the pleasure of meeting one of the all-time great rock photographers, Baron Wolman. His pictures have captured many of the rock legends, but his most famous photos may have been taken at Woodstock. There are so many others: Jim Marshall, Linda McCartney, and Henry Diltz.

Right here, in our neck of the woods (yes, enter pun here), we have the wonderful Susan Wood. Shooting with passion and high energy, her ability to “capture the moment” shines through in the wide variety of photographs she has taken. Most likely, you have seen her work and were not even aware of it. She has shot the covers of the Pleasant Hill Rec and Park’s Spotlight and many covers of Community Focus. Twice she was voted one of the best photographers in the Community Focus Readers’ Local Favorites poll. It takes a special person to look at a subject, whether it is an individual, event, or wildlife, and capture the mood and essence of that

Paul’s Picks

very moment. It really is true -- a picture tells a thousand words. Now, I do not think Susan is going to give a thousand words, but she was gracious enough to give us a little interview.

PC: How old were you when you first took up the love of photography?

SW: I always envied creative people, but it took me until my mid-30s to realize that I, too, was creative - through the lens of a camera.

PC: What was your first camera?

SW: A Kodak Instamatic. Remember the old cube flash?

PC: Who are some of your inspirations?

SW: Annie Leibovitz, Ansel Adams, Anne Geddes, Tosca Radigonda, National Geographic magazine.

PC: What kind of setting do you prefer?

Indoor, outdoor?

SW: Upside down and backwards with the wind in my hair! I keep my hardhat, safety goggles, hiking boots, and camouflage in the trunk of my car. And, I never say no to a new adventure!

PC: What have been some of the highlights of your career so far?

SW: Flying with the Blue Angels in their c130; Fat Albert during Fleet Week; exploring Thailand with the Tourist Authority of Thailand; a day with Buzz Aldrin on the USS Hornet; shooting down from “the top” of the Bay Bridge (with my safety harness on) during its closure; helicopter air-to-air shoot of “Bear Force One,” (a dedicated helicopter to UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital) with CALSTAR; up close and personal for three weeks in the life of a mother hummingbird and her two chicks; gifting a family with “one last

November 7: Jinx Jones & The Kingtones, Armando’s, 707 Marina Vista, 8pm November 14: Caroompas Room, Armando’s, 707 Marina Vista, Martinez, 8pm November 19: Sin Silver, Rocco’s Pizzeria, 2909 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek, 8:30pm November 21: The Big Jangle, Dallimonti’s, 1932 Oak Park Blvd., Pleasant Hill, 9:30pm November 25: Lumberyard, Dallimonti’s, 1932 Oak Park Blvd., Pleasant Hill, 9:30pm November 28: Von Trapps, Dallimonti’s, 1932 Oak Park Blvd., Pleasant Hill, 9:30pm November 29: The Sunday Paper, Armando’s, 707 Marina Vista, Martinez, 4pm

memory” during the funeral of their 20 year-old son who lost his life in Afghanistan; shooting three of the last Doolittle Raiders; and, most recently, shooting the San Francisco Fleet Week airshow from the San Francisco fire boat.

PC: What is your view of the art scene here in Contra Costa County?

SW: CC County has so much to offer in diverse venues. Well worth exploring, and I am!

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

SW: “When You Believe.” A number of years ago, my life’s direction changed overnight, sending me into a tailspin. I had just started my photography business.

While I was digging my way out of the fear and pain, I discovered an inner strength that I never knew existed, and I never stopped believing that I could achieve what I wanted. There CAN be miracles when you believe - in yourself! My life ROCKS and I feel truly blessed with the

amazing people and photography opportunities flying my way! I am enjoying every minute of this incredible journey!

Please check out Susan’s website, www.susanwoodphotography.com.

Quote of the Month: You don’t make a photograph just with a camera. You bring to the act of photography all the pictures you have seen, the books you have read, the music you have heard, the people you have loved. - Ansel Adams

Holiday B outique & C rafts fair Saturday, Nov. 21 9:00 am – 2:00 pm

Pleasant Hill Senior Center 233 Gregory Lane Over 40 Craft Vendors k Handmade items from the Senior Center Boutique k One-of-a-kind gift ideas k Great Prices! k

FREE ADMISSION Start your holiday shopping here! (925) 798-8788 | pleasanthillrec.com ourcommunityfocus.com • november 2015

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In the Garden

Beautiful Pumpkins and Squash Make Savory Fall Fare

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BY LESLEY STILES

Autumn and winter squashes overflow bowed tables at farmers’ markets as we bundle and bustle into the late months of the calendar.

Many cucurbits are overlooked and used strictly as décor on merry porches until poinsettias displace them to the backyard. Smooth, yellow, and oblong, spaghetti squash is in the most interesting class of American native cucurbits.

Raw, it may resemble any other hard winter squash with seeds. Taking on an otherworldly character when baked, the flesh falls from leather like skin resembling precisely sliced vermicelli ribbons, beckoning to be combined in all manner of mysterious creations and picking up flavor nuances like a greedy hitchhiker.

A Variety of Ways to Enjoy Squash

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Slice spaghetti squash in half and remove seeds to begin your culinary adventure. Bake with an olive oil or butter-filled cavity seasoned with sea salt and pepper in a covered baking dish in a hot 425* oven for 35 to 40 minutes. Fluff with a fork to devour creamy strands as is, or if feeling exotic, mix with some freshly made garam masala, orange zest and toasted almonds to serve alongside nice lamb Tagine. Sauté sliced winter vegetables with olive oil, chopped soft herbs, such as parsley, marjoram, tarragon, and a touch of tomato sauce, and lavishly drape over the sweet ribbons for a soul-craving break from the onslaught of holiday food.

Leftover cooked squash can be incorporated into cinnamon spiked pancakes or cranberry studded pumpkin muffins, leaving bamboozled partakers with a lingering cucurbit flavor, wondering what they just ate.

Not Just for Looks

Not just for carving to scare wee bairns, some pumpkins are amazing eaten. Deep red and magenta to almost

november 2015 • ourcommunityfocus.com

make believe orange, the Rouge Vif d’Etampes looks like something out of a fairytale. AKA Cinderella pumpkin, owing to the resemblance of a famous getaway coach, this French heirloom cucurbit makes for excellent, longlasting décor. Legend has it that this pumpkin may have been the variety cultivated by the Pilgrims and served at the second Thanksgiving dinner. Don’t be captivated by her squashed, deeply ribbed good looks alone though, as the molten orange flesh is creamy and sweet.

Gently slice off top, scooping out seeds, saving them to sprinkle with salty olive oil and roasted for crunchy tidbits. Create a layered casserole inside the cleaned pumpkin by throwing in sliced zucchini, chopped onion, grated Parmesan, and cooked spinach. Top off with eggs beaten with cream and seasoned with salt and pepper. Put the top back on and place on a baking sheet in a 350* oven for about an hour, until the egg mixture has set.

Use the rich flesh for pies, cookies, and breads by cutting off top, slicing in half, and scooping out seeds. Place in a baking dish with a ½ inch of water, cover, and bake at 350* until soft. Puree or mash and use according to your recipe. You will likely have several recipes worth of pumpkin puree from just one pumpkin, so I measure it out according to recipes and freeze it in batches. Add chocolate chips to any pumpkin cookie or bread recipe for a surprisingly addictive sweet. My motto: Two for décor and one to eat now. You will never buy a can of pumpkin again.

Creamy yellow and orange, specked with long green furrows, the Delicata squash is almost too pretty to eat. Almost. Also known as sweet potato squash, the Delicata does indeed marry well with the yam. Pick firm and heavy squash and prepare to roast, sauté, or mash by removing both ends and peeling the skin off. Slice in half lengthwise and remove seeds to free up the flesh for a velvety soup concocted

by roasting and puréeing squash with a touch of stock, apple cider vinegar, and cinnamon spiked cream. Create an amazing Thanksgiving side dish of sliced Delicata layered with sliced apples, onions, fresh thyme and grated Gruyere baked to bubbling golden brown. Embellish mashed potatoes with half a mashed squash and a few zests of orange peel. Cube and simmer along with lentils, garlic, and fresh ground cumin to warm chilly winter tummies.

As of this writing, still no rain, but the ridges around us are amazing in their scorched simplicity and deserve a romp up and down dusty trails to spot owls, coyotes, spiders, snakes, and all manner of wildlife native to our hood.

There is a group of 16 turkeys we spot almost every hike. They started out as 17 babies about 3 or 4 months ago and, to our knowledge, have only lost one.

Traveling in a tight group throughout the park probably helps in survival.

The Farmers’ Market Lovers Calendar is once again available for holiday gift purchases at www.lelseystilesfoods. com or lesleystiles@comcast.net. I deliver! Happy Thanksgiving!

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.

SUPPORTING OUR LOCAL

Proudly Sponsored by Les Schwab Martinez

ORGANIZATIONS

Meals on Wheels of Contra Costa County 25th Anniversary Gala On September 24, Meals on Wheels of Contra Costa (MOWCC) celebrated 25 years of community service, dedicated to helping seniors in need. The gala fundraiser, held at the Pleasant Hill Community Center, featured a wonderful evening of performance by Stagebridge, great wine and brew, delicious small plates, and a silent auction. Emceed by Emmy Award winning CBS Eyewitness newscaster, Barbara Rodgers, MOWCC received resolutions and proclamations from Assemblymember Jim Frazier, U.S. Representative Mark DeSaulnier, State Senators Steve Glazer and Lois Wolk, and Supervisor Candace Andersen representing the Contra Costa Board of Supervisors. “We cannot even begin to express our gratitude to all who made this a truly wonderful evening. Together, we’re ensuring that homebound seniors in need throughout Contra Costa County receive the nutritious meals, safety checks, and companionship that they need to stay happy and healthy in their own homes,” said Marti Carlson, community engagement specialist.

According to Co-founder and Board Secretary/Treasurer Paul Kraintz, “Last year alone, Meals on Wheels of Contra Costa delivered 386,596 senior meals. Our donors make this all possible since there are no additional government funds forthcoming to meet this rapid growth of homebound elders in need of Meals on Wheels to maintain their health and independence. We would like to thank our donors for all they do.” It’s never too late to Feed A Senior. To make a donation, go to www. mowofcontracosta.org/FeedASenior.html.

Help Food Bank Help Others During Safeway’s Help Us End Hunger holiday food drive, customers can purchase a pre-filled bag of groceries for $10 and donate it to the Food Bank right from the store. Help end hunger by visiting your local Bay Area Safeway and buying one of the pre-filled bags that include items such as soup, tuna, and canned vegetables.

Save the date! Volunteers are needed on November 21 to help encourage shoppers to participate in the in-store food drive. NBC Bay Area will be covering the event on air from Safeway stores throughout the Bay Area. Contact Renee Baptiste at 925-771-1310 if you are interested in helping out.

Volunteers Needed for Turkey Trot Please support the Food Bank by signing up to volunteer at Forma Gym’s 23rd Annual Turkey Trot. The event takes place in Walnut Creek on Thanksgiving morning, November 26. The Food Bank needs a total of 25 volunteers to work on race day and/or a couple of days leading up to the event. Contact Renee Baptiste at 925-771-1310 for more information about volunteer opportunities.

Co-founders Bob Sessler and Paul Kraintz and Assembly Member Jim Frazier.

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No purchase necessary, must present coupon.

ourcommunityfocus.com • november 2015

29

It’s Time to Plant

IN FOCUS

Cultivating for Fruitful Awards

According to the California Certified Nursery Professionals at Navlet’s Garden Centers, fall is the best time for planting.

Plants have a much easier time establishing strong root systems in the cooler, normally wetter months. Planting in the cool but not cold fall soil gives plants more time to establish deep root systems before summer sunlight beats down on them 6-7 months later. Strong, deep roots allow a plant to better absorb essential ground water, which makes a plant heartier and able to survive and thrive through the warmer, dryer months of the year.

To make your cool-weather planting even more fruitful, the fall and winter months offer an extensive selection of dormant crops. Planting a dormant plant results in bigger, deeper root systems that support healthier, insect and diseaseresistant, more water-wise plants. Choose from a wide variety of dormant roses; pear, apricot, cherry, and many other fruit trees; lots of berry bushes; garlic, onion and shallot sets; asparagus roots; and even spring-blooming bulbs like tulip, crocus, daffodil, and iris to bring brilliant colors to your garden in spring.

So take the advice of the one and only Dirt Gardener and executive vice president of Navlet’s Buzz Bertolero: “Put on a jacket and get digging. Fall is the perfect time to plant!” To help keep Bay

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Area green thumbs gardening all year round, Mr. Bertolero offers tips on Navlet’s website and at the stores’ free classes. Gardening and water wise tips, as well as class schedules, can be found at navletsgardens.com.

About Navlet’s Garden Centers Navlet’s Garden Centers have been helping Bay Area gardeners grow and maintain beautiful gardens since 1885. Navlet’s California Certified Nursery Professionals are experts in the Bay Area’s wide range of microclimates. They help select the best flowers, landscape shrubs, perennials, fruit, citrus, herbs, vegetables, and other plants for their customers’ gardens. Visit Navlet’s Garden Centers at any of their East Bay locations: Concord, Danville, Martinez, and Pleasant Hill. For more information, please visit their website at www.navletsgardens.com.

King’s Cleaning Service has been in business since June 2006. My name is Jamie King and I established King’s Cleaning Service after I had kids and realized my busy schedule would require a flexible part-time job. I have always enjoyed cleaning, so I figured I should start helping families in my area with house cleaning and organizing. After losing my mom in 2008, I felt the need to build my business and make it more than a part-time job. At that time, a lot of my clientele were in upper class areas with larger homes. I wanted to provide a more affordable service to a larger area (Sacramento to San Francisco, including Solano and Contra Costa counties), so middle class families, like mine, could enjoy the luxury of having their homes professionally cleaned for a reasonable price. I was able to carve out a niche offering affordable bi-weekly cleaning services to working families, freeing up their time to spend together, instead of cleaning.

We believe in giving back to the community that supports our business, and we do this often in the form of gift certificates, donations, and sponsorships, as well as offering discounted rates to people going through cancer treatment. Last year, my husband took over my commercial cleaning department, so now we are truly a family-owned and operated business! I am very proud of what King’s Cleaning Service has become, and urge all of you out there to follow your dreams, keep a positive mental attitude, and do what makes you happy.

If you would like to experience the royal treatment for your home, please call 916-801-1307 or visit www.kingscleaningsvc.com. Mention this ad to receive our Sparkle & Shine special! 2 hours/2 cleaners $120. We offer maintenance cleaning, eco-friendly products, move in/out, commercial janitorial, window washing, pressure washing and hoarder/haul outs.

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november 2015 • ourcommunityfocus.com

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Pair Up

Tropical Thanksgiving

BY MARIA TERRY

As weather in northern parts of the world begins to cool down, a trip to the tropics makes an ideal fantasy get away. Why not take your family there for Thanksgiving, or at least serve them a meal that will take them there in spirit? Since the warmth of the tropics is ideal for growing delicious produce all year-round, here’s a way to add a little sunshine to this year’s Thanksgiving, with the classic flavors of pineapple and coconut.

Spicy Citrus Shrimp Cocktail is an elegant first course. This recipe comes from Ecuador. Fresh orange juice and ketchup add sweetness, and hot pepper sauce and red onion bring heat. Try it paired with a Balalaika cocktail. The combination of orange liqueur and tart lemon are like a fresh squeeze of juice with the shrimp.

The highlight of this Thanksgiving meal is an Armadillo Turkey. It gets its name from the pineapple skin that protects the breast from becoming overcooked as the thighs finish cooking. Your guests will ooh and aah as it

emerges from the oven looking like a lumbering armadillo. The fruit from the pineapple finds its way into this tart and creamy Pineapple-Avocado Salad, and the turkey drippings make delicious gravy to top mashed white or sweet potatoes. These bright, tropical flavors require a lighter, floral wine like Gewürztraminer. Choose one from a cool winery region like Alsace, France, or Mendocino, California.

Paula Deen’s recipe for French Coconut Pie is one of the easiest pies to make ahead of time because there is no custard to stir. This pie is basically just eggs, butter, flour, sugar, and milk holding together coconut. Leave it to Paula to keep it together with butter!

Serve this super sweet pie with bitter Mocha Yemen Coffee. And, here’s a fun fact: coconut is not a fruit; it is a drupe.

In botany, a drupe is an indehiscent fruit in which an outer fleshy part surrounds a shell with a seed inside. Other drupes include mango, peach, and coffee. So there it is, coffee and coconut, the perfect drupe pairing.

Go on. Pair Up!

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

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Pineapple - Avocado Salad

Paula Deen’s French Coconut Pie

INGREDIENTS Fruit from one pineapple, cut into bitesized pieces 2 cups diced avocado DRESSING 3 tablespoons olive oil 1 tbsp. lime juice 1 tsp. honey 1 tsp. sherry vinegar 1/4 tsp. minced fresh ginger 1 shallot, peeled and minced Salt and pepper DIRECTIONS Mix dressing ingredients and toss with pineapple. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Add avocado and toss just before serving.

Yeild 10-12 Servings

INGREDIENTS 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) butter, melted 2 eggs, beaten 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour 3/4 cup sugar 1 (3 1/2–ounce) can shredded sweetened coconut (about 1 cup) 1 cup milk 1 (9-inch) unbaked pie shell DIRECTIONS Preheat oven to 350°F. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, eggs, flour, sugar, coconut, and milk. Pour into pie shell. Bake until firm, about 45 to 60 minutes.

Yeild 6-8 Servings

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Balalaika INGREDIENTS 1 ounce vodka 1 ounce orange liqueur 1 ounce lemon juice DIRECTIONS Combine ingredients in a shaker. Fill with ice, shake, and strain into a chilled cocktail or martini glass. Garnish with orange peel.

Yeild 1 Drink

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Spicy Citrus Shrimp Cocktail INGREDIENTS 1 cup orange juice 1 cup fresh lemon juice 3/4 cup ketchup 1/3 cup vodka 1/4 teaspoon hot pepper sauce 1/4 cup olive oil 1 1/2 pounds cooked peeled large shrimp 1 small red onion, thinly sliced (about 1 3/4 cups) 1 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro DIRECTIONS Combine juices, ketchup, vodka, and hot pepper sauce in a large bowl. Whisk in oil. Add shrimp and cilantro and mix well.

Cover and refrigerate at least 3 hours and up to 6 hours. Drain before serving.

Yeild 6 Servings

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Armadillo Turkey INGREDIENTS 1 turkey, 12-15 lbs.

1 lime, washed and halved Salt and pepper 1 small onion, peeled and quartered 1 large pineapple 1 1/2 cups canned pineapple juice DIRECTIONS Preheat oven to 325°. Rinse and dry turkey. Squeeze the lime into the turkey cavity and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Place the lime halves and onion in cavity.

Scrub the pineapple with a brush and hot water. Slice off the top of the pineapple and set aside. Remove the skin from the pineapple in four equal parts. Leave 1/4” of pulp on two pieces of the skin to place on turkey during cooking. Reserve fruit for salad.

Pour 1/2 cup pineapple juice over turkey. Roast until deep golden brown and leg joints move freely, about 3.5 – 4 hours. Baste the turkey every 30 minutes with juice or pan drippings once all the juice is gone. One hour before the turkey is done, place the two pineapple skins on the breast, securing with skewers. This will keep the breast meat extra moist.

Allow the turkey to rest 30-45 minutes.

Make gravy with the drippings as desired.

Discard pineapple skins, carve the turkey, and garnish the platter with pineapple top.

Yeild: 10-12 servings

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

ourcommunityfocus.com • november 2015

31

P L E A S A N T

H I L L

C H A M B E R

O F

C O M M E R C E

It’s Your Business.

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

BUSINESS RUNWAY 2015

Managing Work-Life Balance Success Strategies for You and Your Employees Thursday, December 10, 2015

Guest Speaker

Christoph Nauer Time Management & Strategies for Work/Life Integration

8:00 am – 10:00 am (Registration & Networking begins at 7:45am) JFK University, 100 Ellinwood Way, Pleasant Hill Chamber Members Free if registered by December 4th, $10 thereafter & at the door Non-Members $15

Register Online:

This workshop will focus on proven techniques for using your time more effectively to achieve greater success in your business. Christoph specializes in Work/Life Integration and as such helps business owners & busy professionals – who are spending too much time at work, to clarify & prioritize their focus so that they can live a more balanced life.

https://businessrunway2015.eventbrite.com For more information, contact Pleasant Hill Chamber of Commerce (925) 687-0700 Presented By

Includes Q&A with Panel of Experts

Welcome New Members

“The year may be winding down, but we still have some great events to share with you. Check the Chamber’s online calendar to make sure you save the dates for our Member Orientation, Business Mixer, Pleasant Hill Tree of Lights ceremony, Light Up The Night in Downtown, Business Runway and more.

We look forward to seeing you!”

32

Mountain Mike’s Pizza

Gurjeet Mann

925.826.5101

STAT Med Urgent Care

Robert O’Rilly

925.234.4447

Delta Lending Group

Jake Murray

925.906.1100

Law Offices of Lauren Smykowski

Lauren Smykowski

925.257.4277

Jen Lucas Massage

Jen Lucas

925.322.0554

Pleasant Hill Village Apartments

Debbie Ventura

925.937.7370

Sentinel Newspapers

Denise Rousset

925.820.6047

november 2015 • ourcommunityfocus.com

Ann Luke President & CEO

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

www.pleasanthillchamber.com

Two-Legged Heroes

Young Pair from Martinez Grange Tackle Fundraising

In the May 2015 issue, we introduced Seth Kozlowski (age 13) and Lenore Delfino (age 17) of the Martinez Grange who had just launched an old-school fundraiser for a unique need in the City of Martinez. As Grange members, the pair is accustomed to doing fundraisers and community service, but they were on the lookout for a lesser-known need to fulfill.

Last year, the two heard about a K-9 officer situation at the Martinez Police Department, and they decided that would be their new project! Over the years, these honored four-legged K-9 heroes have done their job for our community, and losses through illness, death, and retirement left the need for a new K-9 unit.

They are an important part of any police force and give the department a critical advantage. A K-9 officer can sweep a building in seconds, making the officer’s job safer by alerting them to dangers and drugs in ways that humans cannot. An

additional K-9 can also give other dogs a day off for a break or to recover from illness or injury.

Seth and Lenore checked with police Captain Eric Ghisletta and then off they went to talk to businesses owners and organizations in town that agreed to leave homemade collection jars out in their stores and at events. The kids put the word out, and soon the police department started receiving donations toward the dog fund. The money came in record time, and before anyone knew it, over $13,200 had been raised for a trained K-9 officer.

Seth and Lenore presented the “huge check” to Capt. Eric Ghisletta and other K9 officers at the September 16 Martinez City Council meeting. In turn, the two Grange members were awarded plaques from the city, recognizing them for their efforts.

The officer has not been chosen yet,

Seth Kozlowski and Lenore Delfino presented a check for the purchase of a new K-9 officer at the Sept.16 Martinez City Council meeting.

so it will be a few months until the newest member of the Martinez PD is happily introduced to his or her new partner and

veteran K-9 officer, Logan (pictured in front), gets a new friend; he just doesn’t know it yet.

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ourcommunityfocus.com • november 2015

33

Christmas Swings Kick off the Holiday Season

Get ready to kick off your holiday season on December 5 with a swingin’ twist on many of your holiday favorites as director Steve Mullins, accompanist Carolyn Wolf, and the spirited sounds of the Diablo Women’s Chorale present “Christmas Swings.”

It’s entertainment for the whole family and a great way to get into the holiday spirit!

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

Steve Mullins moved to Walnut Creek in 1982 and has held music director positions at several East Bay churches. His primary emphasis has been excellence in all aspects of choral music production. He has directed Diablo Women’s Chorale (DWC) since August 2015. Carolyn Wolf has taught elementary vocal music in Lafayette.

She currently teaches music lessons privately, is the worship coordinator and accompanist at a church in Walnut Creek, and accompanies two choirs in Rossmoor. She has also been involved with local theater companies. This is her first performance with DWC.

“Christmas Swings” will be performed on Saturday, December 5, at 2pm, Saint Matthew Lutheran Church, 399 Wiget Lane, Walnut Creek. Advance tickets are $16 general admission; $10 student; and $20 premium seating. Tickets purchased at the door are $20 adult and $10 student. Tickets can be purchased at www.DiabloWomensChorale.org , or call 800-838-3006.

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

Nov. 8 - Pancake Breakfast 8am – 11am. This delicious breakfast includes pancakes or toast, sausage, eggs, orange juice and coffee. Everyone is welcome. $4.00 for adults/$2.50 for children 10 and under. Handmade crafts will be on sale. Always open to the public.

Nov. 6 - AARP Driver Refresher Course 10am-3pm. For those who took the 8hr AARP Driver Safety Training in the past 4 years. May qualify you for a mature driver discount. Cost: $15 for AARP members/$20 for non members. Call to register. Order lunch at our C.C.Cafe; 60+donation $2; under 60 $5 donation. Call 646-2598 before 12pm Nov. 6.

Nov. 13 - Holiday Bazaar 9am – 2pm. Lunch served 11:30am – 1pm. Browse through various sections for that treasure you can’t live without: white elephant, jewelry, holiday & home décor, handmade items by the craft group, crystal, bake sale, and more. Pasta, salad & garlic bread, coffee, ice tea, and water will be available. Cost: $4 advanced sales, $4.50 on day of the sale.

Nov. 19 - Thanksgiving Special Bingo. Open for sales at 12pm, games at 1pm. Regular games pay $50. Prizes given between games.

Dec. 3 - Holiday Bunco 4:45pm. Game instruction 5pm, dinner 5:45pm. Enjoy “Dessert Bar”

SENIOR CALENDARS SPONSORED BY:

Linda J. Weihofen

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

Pleasant Hill Senior Activities 233 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill 925-798-8788 Nov. 6 - Vagabond Players presents Too Old for the Chorus, But Not Too Old to Be a Star at 1:30pm in the Chateau Room. A musical revue about five characters that discover the frustrations & joys of suddenly turning 50. Tickets: $10 presale/$15 day of (based on availability).

Nov. 12 - CMP Series Presents “Lower Back Pain and Chiropractic Care” by Beyond Chiropractic at 2pm. Learn how falls can affect you and how chiropractic care can help bring better health. Attendees can sign up for a FREE 10-minute chair massage by Beyond Chiropractic on 11/16, 10:30am- 12:30pm. Series held in the dining room. Space is limited. Call 798-8788 to reserve spot. Sponsored by Chateaus’ of Pleasant Hill.

Nov. 20 - Thanksgiving Luncheon is at noon in the Chateau Room. Enjoy a delicious traditional Thanksgiving meal and live melodies of LaDiDa. Tickets: $12 members / $15 general.

NO JOB TOO SMALL FAMILY & LOCALLY OWNED MONTHLY SERVICE Best Mechanic

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

ANTS • SPIDERS • MICE • RATS • FLEAS • 1 TIME SPRAY OK 34

november 2015 • ourcommunityfocus.com

New PHCF Board

Video Games

Community Foundation Expands

Are they Good for the Aging Brain?

The Pleasant Hill Community Foundation has been improving the quality of life in Pleasant Hill for the past 28 years. The foundation is currently looking for well-respected community members to join our board of directors.

Your three-year commitment to the foundation assists in garnering charitable donations and stewarding and directing those funds among community organizations. Community-based and public organizations that provide cultural, recreational, and educational programming are eligible to receive grants from the foundation.

Long-time board member Betty

Despite claims by many video and “brain” game developers, there is very little scientific evidence that playing video games will fend off mental decline in older adults. The best ways to keep our brains healthy are still daily exercise, a heart healthy diet, social interaction, and feeling you are part of a community.

However, one type of video game called “speed-of-processing” has been tested and does seem to have some lasting effects on improving the older player’s ability to do the tasks of daily living. For example, in one video game, you are boating down a winding, rushing river and must stay on course as well as hit a button if a blue bird or a green fish pops up. The game should get harder and faster as you learn how to play it. If a blue fish or a green bird pops up (the color and animal are not a match), hitting the button is an error.

The brain’s ability to react quickly slows down as we age, and we lose the ability to juggle multiple tasks. While more research is needed, this type of “speed-ofprocessing” video game may help you get better at dividing your attention on more than one thing in the real world -- and not just on the video screen. Game on!

Geishirt Cantrell stated, “The foundation has enabled hundreds of organizations to provide valued services to our residents. Being able to do so has been a really rewarding experience. Many major projects in Pleasant Hill would not have been completed without our ability to lead major fundraising projects. Most recently, the foundation led the renovation of the tennis courts at Pleasant Hill Middle School.”

Request an application to join the board by emailing info@PHCommunityFoundation.org. More information about the foundation is available at www.PHCommunityFoundation.org.

Holiday Faire Extravaganza

Clayton Valley Charter High School Parent Faculty Club is presenting a holiday faire Sunday, November 22, form 11am-4pm in the large gym. The faire features raffle drawings throughout the day, while students and vendors sell holiday items.

Chef Wayne’s food and drinks will be available for purchase in the small gym. Free entry. For more information visit cvchspfc.com. Clayton Valley Charter, 1101 Alberta Way, Concord.

EL TAPATIO authentic mexican restaurant

Front row (L to R): Marian Woodard, Adrianne Roe, Yvonne Ceresa, Katherine Bracken, Hal Jeffery, Giles Miller. Back row (L to R): Bob Berggren, Suzanne Salter, Jim Utz, Kendra Diamond, Betty Geishirt Cantrell, Aloma Levine. Photo by Susan Wood.

Sons in Retirement Social

Las Trampas Branch 116 welcomes guests to the monthly luncheon at 11am on Monday, November 16, at the Walnut Creek Elks Lodge, 1475 Creekside Drive, Walnut Creek.

Sons In Retirement (SIR) Paul King and his four-person acoustic band, Jump-In, entertains with folk and popular music from the ‘40s to the ‘90s, with a preference for early ‘60s folk era. As suggested by the band’s name, audiences are encouraged to jump in and join in singing familiar favorite songs. Please call 925-322-1160 to make lunch reservations. Cost for lunch is $15.

If you are retired or semi-retired and

want to make new friends, participate in fun activities, and enjoy your leisure time more, we welcome you to join us. Our member activities include book discussions, bridge, computers, dine-outs, dominoes, fishing, golf, hiking/walking, investments, poker, travel, wine tastings, and more. In addition, we have special golf events and bridge tournaments where wives, partners, and guests are welcome. If you enjoy these activities, you may enjoy them even more with a friendly group of retirees in the SIRs organization. For information about our activities for retired men, please visit www.Branch116.org.

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

SUNDAY BRUNCH SERVED 10 AM - 2 PM

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

40 Golf Club RD., Pleasant Hill 925.676.2420 • WWW.ELTAPS.COM

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

401 GREGORY LANE, SUITE 126 PLEASANT HILL, CA 94523 925.676.8485 FAX 925.676.0288 www.drjennifermartin.com ourcommunityfocus.com • november 2015

35

Stop Hunger Now

Feeding People in Need

BY ALISON ARMAND

October 25 was a big day at Saint Andrew’s Presbyterian Church. Over 150 people, including church members, Boy Scouts from Troop 239, students and families from Gregory Gardens Elementary School, and other community members, gathered for a service of mission and fellowship. In less than two hours they packaged 10,000 meals of rice, soy, vegetables, and fortified seasonings for the nonprofit STOP HUNGER NOW. St. Andrew’s new pastor, Ernie Hess, explained to the group that the Stop Hunger Now meals served to children at a school he visited in Haiti made a difference in the children’s ability to learn each day. The meals this group just packaged are going to a school program in Afghanistan. Volunteers unloaded supplies, set up stations, measured, weighed, sealed, and boxed up the meals with excitement and enthusiasm. The morning also included a canned food drive and a bake sale to benefit the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano.

Hospice East Bay presents the

Tree of LighTs Celebration for 2015

Annual Benefit

FASHION SHOW

Please join us for the tree lighting ceremonies in Martinez & Pleasant Hill.

Martinez Ceremony Saturday, November 7th, at 5:00pm Morello Avenue, north of Arnold Drive

Pleasant Hill Ceremony

Tickets: $15 Student, $20 Early Bird $25 At the Door

Thursday, November 19, at 6:30pm Gregory Lane, near Cleaveland Road

hosted by Faith Alpher, KKIQ Radio personality

To dedicate a light, call (925) 887-5678 or visit www.MartinezHospiceTree.com or www.PHHospiceTree.com Funds raised will benefit One Bread Foundation, Inc. Tax Identification: EIN: 47-4380980 California Corporation: 3791701

36

november 2015 • ourcommunityfocus.com

Coping With Stress Incontinence A Variety of Treatment Options

BY PARMINDER SETHI, MD

Stress urinary incontinence is the unintentional leakage of urine. Stress incontinence happens when physical movement or activity such as coughing, sneezing, laughing, exercising

or heavy lifting puts pressure or stress on the bladder. It is not related to psychological stress.

Stress incontinence occurs when the muscles and other tissues that support the bladder become weakened. Childbirth can cause the pelvic floor muscles and urinary sphincter to lose strength. Other factors that increase the risk of develop-

New Treatments Immunotherapy for Lung Cancer

BY GIGI CHEN,MD

For patients with advanced or metastatic lung cancer, the treatment options have traditionally been chemotherapy.

First line treatment usually included a platinum containing chemotherapy. If cancer progressed after that, then the effectiveness of additional chemotherapy was limited. Now with immunotherapy, we have new and improved treatment options.

The goal of immunotherapy is to stimulate the immune system so it recognizes the abnormal components found in lung cancer cells by mounting an immune response that destroys or blocks the growth of the cancer.

Checkpoint-blockade immunotherapy represents the most exciting recent advances made in cancer treatment. T-cell is a type of immune cell that can recognize and kill cancer cells. However, cancer cells protect themselves by expressing the protein PDL-1, which binds to the programmed cell death PD-1 receptor on T-cells. This is one of the interactions that allow cancer to “hide” from our immune system. By blocking the PD-1/PDL-1 interaction, we are able to outsmart the tumor cell and activate our immune system to destroy the cancer.

Antibodies blocking PD-1 or PD-L1 are in clinical development for the treatment of more than 30 types of cancer, and pembrolizumab (Keytruda) and

nivolumab (Opdivo), two antibodies blocking PD-1, have gained approval for the treatment of metastatic melanoma and lung cancer. In March of 2015, the FDA approved Opdivo to treat patients with advanced squamous lung cancer whose disease progressed during or after platinum-based first line chemotherapy.

More recent FDA approval expands the use of Opdivo to also treat patients with non-squamous type of lung cancer.

Keytruda was also approved recently for advanced non-small cell lung cancer patients who have progressed despite receiving platinum-containing chemotherapy or agents targeting EGFR or ALK tumor mutations, and whose tumors are positive for PD-L1 expression.

Immunotherapy offers an exciting new treatment option for our patients with advanced lung cancer. In the recent few years, we have made many advances in understanding the biology of lung cancer, allowing us to personalize treatments for individual patients.

Gigi Chen, MD is a medical oncologist and hematologist with Diablo Valley Oncology. She has extensive experience in treating lung and gynecologic cancers and sees patients in Pleasant Hill, Rossmoor, and San Ramon.

Shine a Light on Lung Cancer - Join Dr. Chen and other medical experts on November 19, from 6:30-8:30pm at the Walnut Creek Library, Oak Room. Panel discussion with Q&A. For more information or to register for the program, please call 925-677-5041.

ing stress incontinence include physical changes associated with age, obesity, hysterectomy and pelvic floor surgery.

Factors that may worsen stress incontinence include illnesses that cause chronic coughing or sneezing, smoking, excess consumption of caffeine or alcohol, highimpact activities and hormonal deficiency.

There are a variety of medical interventions one can do to eliminate or lessen the episodes of incontinence. These include behavior therapies, medication, devices and surgery. You and your doctor should discuss the treatment options available.

Behavior therapies that can help with incontinence include pelvic floor muscle exercises, biofeedback, neuro-stimulation, decreasing consumption of caffeinated beverages and alcohol, quitting smoking, losing excess weight, treating a chronic cough and scheduling regular toilet trips.

Duloxetine is a medicine that is usually used to treat depression. However, it can help with stress incontinence by interfering with certain chemicals that are used in transmitting nerve impulses to muscles.

This helps the muscles around the urethra contract more strongly.

Certain devices designed for women may help control stress incontinence, including vaginal pessary (shaped like a ring with two bumps that sit on each side

of the urethra) and urethral inserts (small tampon-like disposable device inserted into the urethra that act as a barrier to prevent leakage).

Surgical interventions for stress incontinence are designed to improve closure of the sphincter or support the bladder neck. Surgical options include injectable bulking agents, retropubic colposuspension, inflatable artificial sphincter and sling procedures (surgical mesh).

Transvaginal sling with mesh is the most common procedure performed in women with stress incontinence. In this procedure, the surgeon either uses the patient’s own tissue, donor tissue or synthetic material (mesh) to create a sling or hammock that supports the urethra. Research suggests that the complications are infrequent and rarely require follow-up surgery.

There are many people who struggle with stress incontinence. It is not something you should feel embarrassed to discuss with your doctor. In many cases, patients can benefit from more than one option, giving them the ability to find the best solution for their individual needs.

Dr. Sethi is a urologist with Pacific Urology who has extensive experience treating male and female incontinence.

He sees patients in San Ramon, Walnut Creek, Concord and Livermore. For more information call 925-937-7740.

Sign up for our BIRTHDAY CLUB on our website and get a FREE MEAL Up to $30 for your birthday Teppanyaki Dinner!

Please go to our website www.KobeJapanRestaurant.com, and click Sign-Up for Our Birthday Club/Special Offers

1918 Oak Park Blvd, Pleasant Hill 925-705-7065/7066 (PHONE) • 925-705-7067 (FAX) www.kobejapanrestaurant.com ourcommunityfocus.com • november 2015

37

Business Directory Buck Shot & Any Reason

Local Qualit y You Can Trust!

Pleasant Hill

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

COLLISION

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

Special Shows for Assisted Living, Convalescent Homes & Hospitals

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

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

ADVERTISE • Reach over 40,000 local customers!

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BUSINESS SERVICE DIRECTORY AD 925.335.NEWS • www.ourcommunityfocus.com

www.jlgcomputersolutions.com Friendly, experienced help for computer, tablet & smartphone.

Any appliance or device. PC & Mac. Repair, Virus Removal, Upgrades, Wireless, Security, Tutoring, Installs, Purchase Consulting & More

CALL JONATHAN GROSS AT 925.338.9644 References Available • Technically Challenged Welcomed!

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800-471-5555

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Sell Your Home For 4% You can pay less and net more. We’re a full-service real estate brokerage charging less and our sellers are netting more. Why list with anyone but us?

If you’re planning on selling your home please call us to learn more.

Pacific Residential Realty Real Estate Done Differently.

925-216-8046

Advertisers Agent 2000, Derek Knapp Carlton Senior Living Cold Stone Creamery Colleen Callahan Insurance Services Cristina Candelori, J. Rockliff Realtors Deja Vu Boutique Diablo Valley Oncology EcoMulch Ellinwood Exterminators El Tapatio Flaskerud - RE/MAX Today

Forma Gym Glenn Allen Team – RE/MAX Hagin’s Automotive Hammer’s Heating and A/C Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital Hire My Husband Home Detailers Housekeeping Hospice Tree of Lights Irvin Deutscher Family YMCA Jack’s Restaurant & Bar Jennifer L. Martin D.D.S. King’s Cleaning Kobe Japan

Law Offices of Daniel L. DuRee Law Offices of Lauren Smykowski Les Schwab Tires Linda J. Weihofen Main Street Martinez Martinez Art Gallery Matt Rinn – State Farm Insurance Maureen Ingalls - RE/MAX Accord Moulding Company Pacific Coast Farmers’ Market Pacific Urology Parkway Smiles Dental Pleasant Hill Chamber of Commerce

Pleasant Hill Family Dentistry Pleasant Hill Rec & Park RC Sausedo Construction Samuels Construction Senior Helpers Shell Western States Credit Union Stat Med Urgent Care Susan Wood Photography Trio Skincare Inc. Waters Moving and Storage Wealth & Tax Planners Wence’s Restaurant Wise Girl

Fall Cleaning Special

11/30/15

38

november 2015 • ourcommunityfocus.com

Make Some Plans november

november 11

november 14

november 21

Pleasant Hill Baseball Association

Walnut Creek on Ice

Free National Test Day for New SAT

Bag of Books Sale

Spring 2016 registration is open for boys ages 4 to 15 & girls ages 4 to 18. Register players online, then attend one mandatory walk-thru at Pleasant Hill Middle, 11/2 & 11/18, 6:308pm; 11/5, 9am-12pm. www.phba.org.

Walnut Creek Downtown and Walnut Creek Chamber of Commerce once again present Walnut Creek on Ice, back for its 11th season, November 11 through January 18.

For hours and information, go to www. iceskatewalnutcreek.com.

november 3

november 12

november 15

november 23-25

PH Garden Study Club

Double Tunnel and the Drought

Earth: A Celebration of Wildlife

Lindsay Wildlife Experience

Barbara Barrigan-Parrilla, director of Restore the Delta, will discuss the drought and proposed tunnel project’s predicted effects on the Delta, 7pm, Ygnacio Valley Library, 2661 Oak Grove Rd, Walnut Creek. Diablo Valley Democratic Club.

925.946.0469 or www.dvdems.org.

Artist Reception, Sunday, 2-4pm, Lindsay Wildlife Experience, 1931 First Avenue, Walnut Creek. Includes a special selection of images dedicated to National Parks of California. Refreshments will be served. www.lindsaywildlife.org.

Thanksgiving break family fun! Enjoy stories and crafts in our Buckeye Room at 10:30am, and make “Critter Crafts” in the Bay Laurel classroom, every afternoon, 1:30-3:30pm.

Free with admission.

november 4

november 13-14

november 17

december 2-13

Jerry On Jerry

Martinez Kiwanis Holiday Boutique

Martinez Youth Baseball & Softball

(Not) A Christmas Carol

Shop for hand-crafted items and treats by local artisans. Friday, Nov. 13, 6-9pm and Saturday, Nov. 14, 9am-4pm. 750 Allen Street, Martinez.

Spring 2016 registration for boys, ages 4 to 15 as of Aug. 31, 2016; girls ages 4 to 16 as of Dec. 31, 2016. Tuesday, 7-9pm, Alhambra High School Commons, 150 E. Street, Martinez, www.bestgameinmtz.org.

Presented by Onstage Rep, with Galatean Players Ensemble Theatre. Preview Wed., 12/2, at 8pm; Th, Fr., & Sat., at 8pm; Sun., at 2:30pm. Martinez Campbell Theatre 636 Ward St. General $15, Seniors $12, Students $10. 925.518.3277 or Onstagetheatre.homestead.com.

Joan Morris presents “Co-Existing with Wildlife in Our Gardens,” 7pm. Free, guests are welcome. PH Community Center, 320 Civic Drive, PH. 925-323-9314 or www.phgsc.com.

The Unpublished Jerry Garcia Interviews Dennis McNally, authorized biographer and historian for The Grateful Dead, will talk about his new book (available November 24), Wednesday, 6:30pm, Pleasant Hill Library, 1750 Oak Park Blvd., Pleasant Hill. www. phlibraryfriends.org.

Take a free practice exam offered by Kaplan to prepare for the real thing, Walnut Creek Library, Walnut Creek Oak View Room, 10am1pm. Register at www.wclibrary.org/collegeprep-for-teens.

For $5, fill a grocery sack with books from a huge selection at Friends of the Martinez Library Book Sale. Members at 10am; general public at 11am, doors close at 4pm. Martinez Public Library, 740 Court Street.

november 7

november 13-15

december 2

Free Practice SAT/ ACT

Diablo Ballet

Light Up the Night

Begin your holidays at the Del Valle Theatre in Walnut Creek with “A Swingin’ Holiday,” set to music from the ‘30s and ‘40s and choreography

by Broadway’s Sean Kelly. To learn more about this and other shows in the season, call 925.943.7468 or visit www.diabloballet.org.

Join the annual Light up the Night in Downtown Pleasant Hill. Craft fair, carriage rides, caroling, Elf On The Shelf, Treasure Hunt, Studio A Dancers, free hot chocolate & cookies, and merchant giveaways. 5-8pm

Ygnacio Valley Library, in conjunction with C2 Education, will offer a free SAT/ACT practice test, 10am-3pm. Register at www. wclibrary.org/college-prep-for-teens.

november 8

november 20

december 4

Little Gems from MHS

Ice Skating in Martinez

Holiday Frolic & Snow Park

Tom Zamaria will present wonderful images from the archives of Martinez history from the Martinez Historical Society Collections, 1-3pm. Veterans Memorial Buildin, 930 Ward Street, Martinez. Snacks will be served.

Main Street Martinez presents the DC Solar Downtown Holiday Ice at Ferry Street and Marina Vista Ave. Available for private events.

For hours, prices and information, visit www.

DowntownHolidayIce.com.

In Downtown Martinez. Light parade, snow play area with 25 tons of real snow. All kids must be accompanied by and adult. Visit www.downtownsnow.com for hours and information.

ourcommunityfocus.com • november 2015

39

The

Nov. 20 - Jan 3

Presented by

Downtown Martinez at Ferry St. & Marina Vista Ave. ❄ Skating Academy ❄ Family Skate Night ❄ Private Parties ❄ Birthday Parties ❄ Corporate Parties ❄ Friday Night Fun Night ❄ And More!

A Main Street Martinez Event • PO Box 776, Martinez, CA 94553 • 925.228.3577 • www.MainStreetMartinez.org

Holiday Frolic & Snow Park

Fri., Dec. 4 1pm-9pm

Media Sponsors

Holiday Frolic & Snow Play Dec. 4th Light Parade • Snow Play Area Santa & More www.downtownsnow.com

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november 2015 • ourcommunityfocus.com