October 2019 Community Focus

COMMUNITY

FOCUS

OCTOBER 2019

IN THIS ISSUE: • MARTINEZ HOME TOURS • ART, WINE AND MUSIC

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PLEASANT HILL • CONCORD • MARTINEZ • LAFAYETTE • WALNUT CREEK

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

COVER:

6 10 to

2020 Census

18 Fruits of Labor Day

25

City News

11 Letter to Parents

21 The Escape Room

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2018 Pleasant Hill’s Rec and Park Trunk or Treat. 2019 details to be found on page 20.

Photo by: SusanWoodPhotography.com

2013

INSIDE

2014

6680 Alhambra Ave. Box #132 Martinez, CA 94553

925-335-6397

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2015

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2 | OCTOBER 2019 | OURCOMMUNITYFOCUS.COM

Meet Shuleen Martin who lives in Pleasant Hill and has four children with her husband, Dave. She is a professor at Diablo Valley College and teaches physics.

“I’ve always been interested in physics, however, that wasn’t my career path. I graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Nutrition. I went back to school and eventually found myself really liking physics, so I ended up pursuing that.”

What are your core beliefs? Community and the future. We must live in the present but also look forward to the future. This drives me as an educator and a community volunteer. Building the future and building community go hand in hand.

More about Shuleen: 1. The biggest challenge in my life is trying to balance work and home life.

2. If I could go back, I would tell myself the same things I tell my kids: Be flexible and have a sense of humor because life can get difficult sometimes.

3. For fun, I like spending time with family. After the kids graduate from high school, time together becomes precious. We’ll plan weekends with family dinners. My kids are musicians and I play the piano, so we also like to play music together.

50 Years of Homes

Annual Martinez Home Tour October 12

The theme of the 2019 Home Tour is “50 Years of Homes,” with houses ranging from 48 years to 98 years old. The seven houses are located just southeast of downtown Martinez on streets such as Ulfinian, Harbor View, Pine Street and the little-known Andrews Drive.

All but one were built on the 70 acres where the Christian Brother’s Novitiate and Winery was situated prior to 1932, when the order moved to Napa. Tour is on October 12, 10am to 4pm.

During the tour, you are greeted at the door of each house by a volunteer docent who answers questions about the home, its features, and history.

You will encounter live music at some homes along with antique or classic automobiles parked in front. Several car clubs in the area and car owners in Martinez loan their beautiful vehicles for the day. Antique car owner Paul Kraintz organizes the cars for the event.

Portions of the tour are quite walkable, but bus transportation with tour guides

is provided. You also have the option of driving your own car.

The Shell Clubhouse, built in 1937, is the starting point of all tours and is located at 1635 Pacheco Boulevard in Martinez. The Diablo Regional Concert Band will perform, and inside you will find booths and displays set up for the day. This year, you will see an Ansel Adams exhibit set up by Kevin Murray. The Shell Oil Museum is behind the Shell Clubhouse parking lot. It depicts the history of oil refining in Martinez, beginning with the construction of the refinery in 1915. The museum is staffed with docents who are retired Shell employees who open the museum for visitors of the home tour.

If you visit the Martinez Historical Society booth at the Sunday Farmers’ Market on Main Street, you can purchase tickets for $20.00 instead of $25.00 (or $30.00 on the day of the event). For details, visit http://martinezhometour.com.

Pictured is Marcia Kent, a docent who answered questions about the home and history features at last year’s tour.

Sunday, October 20, 2019 • Downtown Lafayette Live Music - Healthy Lifestyles Fair

8am 5K • 8:15am 10K • 8:45am 2 Mile Fun Run/Walk Dogs and strollers welcome for 10K and 2 mile only.

Pre-Race Packet Pickup at the Lafayette Chamber Office, 251 Lafayette Circle, Ste 150 October 17-19, Thursday-Friday 9am-6pm & Saturday 9am-3pm

Class automobiles will be featured at many of the home sites.

Register online at LafayetteChamber.org/ResRun OURCOMMUNITYFOCUS.COM | OCTOBER 2019 | 3

Julie Says

Happy 120th Anniversary, Count Dracula

BY JULIE ROSS

Last weekend I sorted through my crate of Halloween costumes in the garage, deciding what to keep and what to toss. I couldn’t resist trying on the leopard print cape I made years ago along with some pretty realistic vampire fangs I found among the spider rings, little skulls and whatnot. It was a nice look – Dracula meets Cruella de Vil. And why not? We’ve grown up with all make and manner of vampires.

Bram Stoker would be turning over in his grave (see what I did there?) if he had any idea of the cultural aftermath following the 1897 publication of his Gothic horror novel Dracula. From the 1931 film starring Bela Lugosi to Stephanie Meyer’s Twilight Saga (not to mention Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Count Chocula, Stephen

King’s Salem’s Lot or Sesame Street’s Count von Count), pop culture continues to drink deeply (bwaaahaha) from Stoker’s Dracula.

Vampire fantasy has taken on an undead life of its own.

Like most of you, I’ve had my moments with vampires. My high school had a Halloween screening of the 1970 movie Count Yorga, from which I have yet to recover. Terrifying. I still remember my friends and I holding our jackets in front of our faces, ready to duck and cover when things got too intense (like when one of the lady vampires was holding a little kitten – noooooooo!). We ran home together in the dark afterwards, not even daring to sneak a peek over our shoulders at what would surely be the Count himself chasing us down.

Today I searched the internet for the movie to see if it still held its horror power and came across a trailer to watch. With

A Fun-filled, FREE, family event Pumpkin painting! Games ! Activities!

Storytime at ll:OO Make a jump rope!

Food ! Beer! Live Music!

RAFFLE ! (prizes picked at 2:00pm)

www.RodgersRanch.org 315 Cortsen Rd. Pleasant Hill Partnering with: Pleasant Hill Library * Pleasant Hill Chamber of Commerce * Stay Pleasant Hill * Rotary of Pleasant Hill Pleasant Hill Recreation and Park District * Pleasant Hill Lions Club * YMCA 4 – H Club * Friends of the Pleasant Hill Library * Northern California Unit of The Herb Society of America * Contra Costa Succulent Garden Club * Pleasant Hill Community Foundation Rodgers Ranch Urban Farm 4 | OCTOBER 2019 | OURCOMMUNITYFOCUS.COM

his long pointy shirt collars, red crushed velvet vest and shiny black cape, Count Yorga was the Liberace of vampires. (Still scary, though.) I saw that a sequel had also been made, Return of Count Yorga, which I plan to work up the nerve to watch (with a healthy supply of garlic and crucifixes

nearby, of course).

In the meantime, think I’ll finish going through the Halloween crate in search of more treasures and nostalgia. Wishing everyone a happy and safe Halloween!

You can reach Julie at julieakross@ comcast.net

SEPTEMBER

NOVEMBER

THURSDAY

THURSDAY

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Real Estate Trends Concierge Service

BY NORMA FLASKERUD

Have you heard of it? It’s a newly minted service that Johnny-come-lately real estate firms offer to their sellers. After reading about it, we realized it is similar to what we have been offering our sellers for years, so we want to reiterate that here for you.

When you contact us about selling your house, we help you evaluate both its as-is value and its fixed-up value. We have wonderful service providers who come out and bid the work and help both you and us determine if it will create good financial return to do work on your house prior to selling it. We are not just looking for dollars spent/dollars earned, but generally we expect a dollar spent should return twice that amount. In addition, we have service providers who do not have

to be paid up front. They can be paid at closing. Many clients enjoy this benefit and take advantage of hiring our service providers for new flooring, new paint, and other household repairs and improvements. It has increased the return on the home sale and given them added pride in the home they are selling. It makes good sense!

Once in a while we get a house and the observation is, where do we start and where do we end because the house needs SO much! Once in a while we get a seller who is happy to sell it as-is and get on with life sooner rather than later. Those sales can be very quick and successful as well. Of course, we often get sellers who have updated their house and it is in market ready, showcase condition from day one.

Call us. We will help you analyze what’s best for you and your house! We look forward to hearing from you. Norma

Flaskerud and Erik Flaskerud: office 925-338-2980 (call or text); email NormaFlaskerud@Remax.net or EFlaskerud@ Remax.net; or call 925-381-7276.

Market Update:

As of mid-September, prices in Pleasant Hill have stabilized. The market report states, “The market has been cooling over time and prices plateaued for a while.” In our experience, there is still high demand for certain homes in certain neighborhoods in Pleasant Hill, so don’t think the cooling is a bad thing. It’s gone from sizzling hot to more temperate. The weather is good and houses still sell in fall as people want to get situated before the holidays. So, if you are a buyer, take advantage of amazing mortgage rates under 4%. If you are a seller, enjoy selling in a time and in a town in high demand. There is a buyer for every house, and we love putting deals together to make everyone happy!

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OURCOMMUNITYFOCUS.COM | OCTOBER 2019 | 5

CITY NEWS

Pleasant Hill City News

of four books, one for each age demographic.” The book picks will be announced on the library website, ccclib.org/phreads, in October.

At the September 16 city council meeting, council adopted a resolution to the Board of Supervisors of Contra Costa County to keep the current library open during construction of the new library. The non-binding resolution states, “The City Council of the City of Pleasant Hill does hereby express their desire for the current library facility to remain open during the construction of the new Pleasant Hill Community Library. If the current library does close prior to the opening of the new Pleasant Hill Community Library, it is the desire of the City Council of the City of Pleasant Hill that the Board of Supervisors and Library Administration of Contra Costa County continue to engage in collaboration with the City and community partners to provide quality library services during such closure.”

Councilmember Flaherty reaffirmed that keeping the current library open during construction is not up to the city of Pleasant Hill. “No matter what we say in this resolution tonight, it is not our decision. These are not our employees and it is not our library. It will be our library when we build the building in a few years; then we will have complete control.”

Fully aggravated residents, from parents of small children to senior citizens, gave public comment, asking city council to offer a strong resolution, as closing the library early will cause major disruption to all library patrons. Speakers asked what might happen to the many popular programs and services, including story time with Patrick Remer, which can bring 100 children to the library for the event. Space at the Senior Center was a big concern.

Parents also worried about the lack of access to books for children during the closure, particularly when there are no full time librarians at the local public schools.

Because the county is providing the money for roads and additional land for parking, Councilmember Noack said, “To go back and say, I’m sorry, you gave us all those lovely gifts, and now we need one more gift; I would prefer to hold off and look at other options than to make a statement right now to say, I’m sorry for all those discussions we had and that agreement we all came to -- now we just need more from you guys. I don’t think that’s fair on our part to do that.”

Councilmember Harris added that he was worried about antagonizing the county and wants to maintain a good relationship: “I would rather us spend a little more time and effort in coming up with solutions to the issues our residents have mentioned tonight. We’re all working within the best interest of our citizens.” Currently, the library is scheduled to close in June 2020 so that the property can be prepared for the future housing development.

The Contra Costa County Library is now offering five new library card designs to the public. First time card holders can choose one of the new designs when signing up. Those who already have cards can replace their current card at no charge. The beautiful new card designs include Mount Diablo, an astronaut, a train, an otter, and a fox. Visit ccclib.org to see the new designs.

Resolution to Keep the Library Open

A New Eatery and New Workouts in Downtown

Ramen lovers can now get their noodle fix at Haya Ramen, on Crescent Drive next to Gotta Eatta Pitta. Fitness lovers have two new workout options: Club Pilates and Row House. Club Pilates is a boutique Pilates studio specializing in reformer fusion classes for all and offers a range of classes along with low-impact, full-body workouts. The studio takes up the space next to Verizon Wireless. Row House will be housed on Crescent Drive next to Hallmark. This workout involves immersive, energetic indoor rowing classes that blend lowimpact cardio, resistance training, stretching, and rhythm-based rowing.

Friends Premium Book Sale

The next Friends of the Pleasant Hill Library’s Premium Book Sale is Saturday, October 12, from 10am to 2pm, at the Pleasant Hill Library. Find a huge selection of high quality, individually priced premium books, CDs, DVDs, audio books, puzzles, and board games as well as like-new books for sale. From 1pm to 2pm, all items are 50 percent off. There is no early entry and no bag sale at this event. Proceeds benefit the Pleasant Hill Library programs for all ages.

Changes to Citywide Reading Program

The annual citywide program “Pleasant Hill Reads” has typically invited local families to share great stories together every October; however, according to Senior Community Library Manager Patrick Remer, “This year we’ve bumped it to November to coincide with our Read to 2020 challenge theme of ‘food and family.’ We have just about finalized a ‘menu’

New County Library Cards

Oak Park Properties Specific Plan draft EIR Released

Copies of the Draft Environmental Impact Report for Oak Park Properties are available for review at Pleasant Hill City Hall (100 Gregory Lane), the Pleasant Hill Library (1750 Oak Park Boulevard), and the Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development (30 Muir Road, Martinez).

The Oak Park Properties Specific Plan comprises two projects: a Civic Project at 1700 Oak Park Boulevard and a Residential Project at 1750 Oak Park Boulevard. The Civic Project includes construction of a new library building, a park with athletic fields, and improvements to the Grayson Creek corridor. In addition, the Civic Project includes significant improvement to Monticello Avenue and Oak Park Boulevard.

The 45-day public review period for the Draft EIR runs until 5pm on October 15. Comments must be submitted in writing to the City of Pleasant Hill’s Planning Division at 100 Gregory Lane or by emailing tfujimoto@pleasanthillca.org.

Public Meetings Civic Action Oct. 2 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane, Small Community Room, 6:30pm. Contact: 671-5229 City Council Oct. 7, 21 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane, Council Chambers, 7:00pm. Contact: 671-5229 Architectural Review Oct. 3, 17 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane, Large Community Room, 5:00pm. Contact: 671-5209 Planning Commission Oct. 8, 22 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane, Council Chambers, 6:30pm. Contact: 671-5209 Commission on Aging Oct. 10 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane, Small Community Room, 5:00pm. Contact: 671-5229 Education Commission Oct. 23 City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane, Large Community Room, 7pm. Contact: 671-5229

Chamber Calendar Oct. 1 - Ribbon Cutting for Irvin Deutscher Family YMCA, 5-7pm, 350 Civic Dr., Pleasant Hill Oct. 5-6 - Art, Wine, & Music Festival, Saturday 10am-8:45pm, Sunday 11am6pm Downtown Pleasant Hill Oct. 7-8 - Chamber Office Closed, All Day Oct 9 - 680 Networking Group, 8:30-10am, JFK University 100 Ellinwood Way, Room 112, Pleasant Hill Oct. 10 - Chamber Business Mixer- Hosted by Hospice of the East Bay, 5-7pm, 3470 Buskirk Ave, Pleasant Hill Oct. 14 - Columbus Day-Chamber Office Closed, All Day Oct. 15 - Membership 101, 10am -12pm, 91 Gregory Lane, Suite 11, Pleasant Hill Oct. 17 - Pleasant Hill Chamber of Commerce Board Meeting, 8-10am, City Hall Community Room Oct. 17 - Bubbles & Bites- Young Professionals Networking, 5:-7pm, Neiman Marcus Walnut Creek, Broadway Plaza Shopping Center, 1000 South Main Street Oct. 23 - 680 Networking Group, 8:30-10am, JFK University, 100 Ellinwood Way, Room 112, Pleasant Hill Oct. 28 - Government Affairs Committee (GAC), 4:30-6pm, WiseGirl Ristorante Italiano & Cocktails, 1932 Oak Park Blvd, Pleasant Hill OURCOMMUNITYFOCUS.COM | OCTOBER 2019 | 7

Mayor’s Message Pine Meadow Agreement

It took over 10 years of planning, evaluating, public meetings, elections, lawsuits, and negotiations to finalize the future of the former Pine Meadow Golf Course. In a unanimous vote of the Martinez City Council on September 18, the city met its obligations under the three party Settlement Agreement reached between Friends of Pine Meadow, DeNova Homes, and the City of Martinez.

The Settlement Agreement dedicates 9.32 acres to a public park, with DeNova Homes contributing up to $1 million to the planning, engineering and development of the future park, and an additional $500,000 to be placed in escrow devoted to the acquisition or improvement of public open space or parkland in or near the City of Martinez. DeNova will develop

65 single-family homes on the remaining 12 acres.

The Settlement Agreement also ends the fight over the implementation of Measure I. The city’s concern was that Measure I had conflicting language that we felt would make the implementation of the measure difficult and confusing.

The Settlement Agreement clarifies the intent and the wording of the measure.

The clarification says if the zoning of property as of 1/1/2017 allowed a certain use, that use is still allowable under Measure I. Waterfront/Marina Master Plan

A few months ago, the Martinez City Council reviewed is top priorities for the next few years and re-affirmed that the continued revitalization of the downtown core and the Martinez waterfront and ma-

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rina remain at the top of the list. In pursuit of these goals, the city council recently reviewed the draft of Martinez Marina Trust Lands Use Plan (TLUP) as required by SB 1424. To refresh your memory, then State Senator Lois Wolk on behalf of the City of Martinez carried SB 1424. It granted the lands at the Martinez Waterfront, owned by the State of California, to the city under the Public Trust Doctrine in perpetuity.

The bill also requires that the city submit a land use plan to the State Lands Commission prior to the end of 2019.

The TLUP includes a general description of the type of uses planned or proposed for the lands under trust. It also includes the projected statewide benefit to be derived from the planned

or proposed uses, including methods of financing, estimated capital costs, annual operating costs, and anticipated annual revenues. It also includes a description of how the city proposes to protect and preserve natural and manmade resources and facilities and addresses the impact of rising sea levels.

Once the State Lands Commission accepts the TLUP, the city will embark on a more detailed Waterfront/Marina Master Plan. This will build upon the information contained in the TLUP and contain additional details to address the city’s goals for long-term use and maintenance of the marina, future land uses, economic development, water transit, infrastructure improvements, and financing.

Public Meetings

City Council Meeting Oct. 2, 23 City Hall, 525 Henrietta Street, 6-9pm. Contact: 372-3500 Zoning Administrator Meeting Oct. 2, 16 City Hall, 525 Henrietta Street, 4-6pm. Contact: 372-3500 Design Review Meeting Oct. 9, 23 City Hall, 525 Henrietta Street, 4-6pm. Contact: 372-3500 Planning Commission Meeting Oct. 8, 22 City Hall, 525 Henrietta Street, 7-11pm. Contact: 372-3500 For Confirmation Visit: www.cityofmartinez.org

ARCHITECTURAL MOULDINGS

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Rob Schroder, Mayor of Martinez

615 ALHAMBRA AVENUE, MARTINEZ, CA 94553 THANKS TO OUR CUSTOMERS FOR VOTING US #1!

2013 • 2014 • 2015 2016 / 2017

CITY NEWS

Martinez City News

Martinez Home Tour

costumes as well as the best group costume. Ticket prices are $35 through midnight until October 18 and $40 at the door if not sold out. For details: https://downtownmartinez.org/events.

This year’s tour is on Saturday, October 12, from 10am-4pm, and the theme is “50 Years of Homes.” The tour includes seven wonderful homes between 48 to 98 years old. The tour ticket gains you entrance to these homes and also includes the Diablo Regional Concert band, other musicians, exhibits, antique cars, and shuttle buses.

Stops at the town’s museums are optional. See the Home Tour ad on page XX.

Martinez Gallery Temporarily Closed

The Martinez Art Gallery on Court Street announced on their website, “We are sorry to report that as of September 1st the Martinez Arts Gallery has lost its lease and is temporarily without a display space. We are seeking a new location and will keep visitors to this website updated as to our progress.” The Martinez Art Gallery is part of the Martinez Arts Association (MAA), founded in 2007. The gallery was a co-op made of local artists and MAA members. Their next event will be at the Dia de los Muertos Festival of the Altars on November 2 (see below).

Dia de los Muertos Festival of the Altars

The Martinez Arts Association’s sixth annual Dia de los Muertos Festival of the Altars is at the Main Street Plaza on Saturday, November 2, from noon to 5pm. Through art, music, and a display of community altars, the festival is a celebration of life honoring those who have passed away. Artists create personal altars to share during the festival. Once again, they are presenting Martha Gutierrez’s Baile Folklorico, a cultural dance representing the various regions of Mexico.

Visitors attending the festival are encouraged to dress in Dia de los Muertos motif and bring a photograph of loved ones who have passed away to place on community altars.

A variety of Dia de los Muertos events and workshops will be offered in Downtown Martinez throughout the month of October, leading up to the main event on November 2. For more information, please visit www.martinezarts.org.

Halloween Fun in Martinez Pumpkin Dunkin

On Sunday, October 13, dig out the goggles, dust off the bathing suit, and get ready to jump in the pool to pick the perfect pumpkin. The Pumpkin Dunkin, a floating pumpkin patch, is at the Rankin Aquatic Center from 1pm-3pm for a pumpkin hunt you won’t soon forget! Both the lap and splash pools are heated. There is a fee of $8 and pre-registration is required. Go to www.cityofmartinez.org and click on “Register for Class/Events” on the right side.

Barbara and Marty O’s Halloween Hunt

There will be crafts, candy, and face painting at this fun and free Halloween event on Thursday, October 24, from 3:30pm-5pm, at Holiday Highland, located at Eastwoodbury and Fig Tree Lane. You can decorate a candy bag and the candy hunt begins at 4pm sharp. Space is limited to the first 120 children, ages 3-12.

Zombie Brew Crawl

8th Annual Zombie Brew Crawl tickets are on sale now. The un-dead are coming to downtown Martinez on October 19, from 1:30pm-4:30pm. Zombies will be walking around the downtown corridor of Martinez and sampling craft beers from various breweries stationed at participating small businesses along Main Street. Zombie costumes are optional, however, there will be cash prizes awarded for the best individual

Trunk-or-Treat Spooktacular!

Visit creatively themed and decorated car trunks and shops lining downtown Martinez to collect candy and treats. The Trunk-or-Treat and Store-to-Store event is on Sunday, October 27, in conjunction with the farmers’ market. The market will be on the 600 and 700 blocks of Main Street, while the 500, 800, and 900 blocks will be filled with Trunk-or-Treat cars. Get a map and bag for your goodies at the Main St. Plaza near Starbucks. Free face painting by City of Martinez Parks and Recreation department at the Main St. Plaza begins at 10am.

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CITY NEWS

Mayor’s Message Pull on your work gloves for Community Service Day!

Projects for this year’s annual Community Service Day are filling fast, so now is the time to sign up to be a part of this fabulous community event. This year’s Service Day is set for Saturday, October 12, and features more than 50 projects at our parks, schools, public and school libraries, downtown, and open space and creeks. Most projects are planned for the morning, from 9am to noon.

A few are scheduled for late morning and early afternoon as well. And, like every year, the day will start out with a free pancake breakfast at the Heather Farm Community Center, cooked by volunteers from our local Lions Clubs. Sign up at www.Walnut-Creek. org/Service.

We have a few new project opportunities this year: Emergency Prep Outreach: Come help CERT leaders distribute emergency alert in-

formation to the community.

Hanna Grove Fence Building: Bring your tools and help build a two-rail wooden fence at the Hanna Grove picnic area at Borges Ranch.

Shadelands Museum Gardening: No experience is needed to help the historical society spruce up the gardens at the historic Shadelands Ranch.

Iron Horse Trail Spruce-up: If you love the Iron Horse Trail, come help pick up trash and paint over graffiti along the trail between Walden Park and Newell Avenue.

Banner Extravaganza: Help the Community Service Day Committee collect banners that have been displayed across town.

Help School Kids

For the first time, all 13 of our public schools are sponsoring projects at their campuses. Pick your favorite school and show your support for kids!

A number of projects are perfect for fami-

Walnut Creek City News Trunk-or-Treat in Civic Park

Walnut Creek Recreation is hosting their first “Trunk-or-Treat” in downtown Civic Park on Friday, October 25, from 4:30-6pm. Bring your little ones to this free event and walk through “candy lane,” where decorative trunks are filled with Halloween spirit and sweet/ non-sweet treats are given out. Stop by entertaining booths filled with activities, games, and picturesque opportunities. You can also visit food trucks and beverage areas for a tasty treat or drink. Make sure to bring a bag for your child’s treats! No registration required. Call (925) 943-5899 ext. 2311 for more information.

Don’t Miss Painted Pianos

A musical art project called Painted Pianos, highlighting ten pianos donated by Steinway Piano Gallery and hand-painted by local artists, was placed around downtown Walnut Creek in September. The pianos are located throughout the downtown and the Community Arts – Shadelands Campus. The project goal is to bring community members together to create musical memories in downtown Walnut Creek. You can also enjoy “Tunes at Twelve,” live performances by professional &/or special guests every Tuesday through October 15, from 12pm-1pm, at three locations: 1655 North Main Street, 1501 Locust Street, and 1328 North Main Street. For more information and a list of all the piano locations, visit http:// www.walnutcreekdowntown.com and click on “Events and Programs.” Painted Pianos runs through October 18.

Break a Sweat for Education 5K Run & Walk

The Yours Humanly annual “Break a Sweat For Education” 5K Run & Walk fundraiser is Saturday, October 5, from 8am – 11am, at Heather Farm Park. Proceeds benefit Yours Humanly and MDUSD Education Foundation. Yours Humanly is an East Bay nonprofit that 10 | OCTOBER 2019 | OURCOMMUNITYFOCUS.COM

Cindy Silva, Mayor of Walnut Creek

lies with younger children: Family Creek Clean up at Heather Farm: This project involves a small creek along flat terrain (and maybe a frog or two)!

All Abilities Playground: Kids of all ages love the playground -- and love to clean it!

Neighborhood Food Drive: Grab a wagon and collect food from the neighborhood for the local food bank.

Art in a Suitcase: At the Bedford Gallery, help pack kits for the gallery’s traveling

school art workshops.

Library Spruce Ups: Both the downtown and Ygnacio Library need volunteers to clean books and straighten shelves.

Parks and Gardens: Check out gardening projects at Gardens at Heather Farm, Heather Farm Park, Lar Rieu Park, and San Miguel Park.

For more information on projects and how to register, visit www.Walnut-Creek. org/Service.

Boy Scouts at Flood Control Channel

provides underprivileged children in underserved communities access to educational programs and resources. MDUSD Education Foundation brings hands-on STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, math) enrichment opportunities to Mt. Diablo Unified students of all ages. The annual Break a Sweat for Education 5K run & walk is an excellent opportunity for you, your friends, and your family to help raise money and awareness for a great cause. All ages and skill levels are welcome to participate in the Run/Walk. And whether you’re an athlete or an observer, you’ll enjoy entertainment for both children and adults. Registration is open through October 4. The 5K is $40 for adults and free for kids ages 10 and under. Visit https://www.mdedf.org/events for more details.

Civic Pride Grants Available

The Walnut Creek Civic Pride Foundation is now accepting applications for its 2019 Community Grant Program. Ranging from $500 to $2,500, the grants support Walnut Creek non-profit recreation, cultural, and educational programs and services. To apply, visit the foundation’s website at WCCivicPride.org. Application deadline is Monday, October 7.

Community Service Day is October 12

This year’s line-up features more than 50 half-day projects, including projects at nearly all public schools, libraries, parks, gardens and creeks, and downtown. In addition, many non-profits are sponsoring projects, from Animal Rescue Foundation to the Historical Society. There will be a community wide food drive and a food drive in Rossmoor. The morning kicks off with a free pancake breakfast from 7:30-8:30am at Heather Farm Park Community Center, courtesy of the Lions Clubs of Walnut Creek. From there, volunteers will fan out across Walnut Creek to work on their projects. For a list of projects and online registration, visit www.walnut-creek.org/service. Those without Internet access may call the Community Service Day hotline at 925-256-3505. For further information, email WCserviceday@ gmail.com.

A Complete Count The Upcoming 2020 Census

BY SUPERVISOR KAREN MITCHOFF

Contra Costa County has been actively working to prepare for the 2020 Census, which is quickly approaching. As mandated in the Constitution, every 10 years, the federal government counts all persons living in the United States. The U.S. Census Bureau collects this information, which is then used to determine the number of representatives in Congress each state will have and how $675 billion dollars of federal funds will flow to tribal, state and local governments.

The Census is the benchmark for the next decade of key decisions for our communities. It is of utmost importance that Contra Costa County achieves a

full count. This data is used to make decisions at every level of government and informs so much about our communities such as the roads we drive on, siting of schools, hospitals, and public services. It also informs employers with economic data. It determines congressional representation for each state and provides data to draw federal, state and local legislative voting districts.

Other examples of programs with funding dependent on Census data: • Transportation: highway planning and construction • Children: foster care, nutritional school lunch program • Health and Nutrition: Medicaid, Medicare Part B, health center programs • Schools: Head Start, Special Education grants, Title I grants • Affordable Housing: Section 8, Low

Cypress Corner Plaza

Construction continues at North Main Street and the corner of Cypress Street in downtown Walnut Creek to create the Cypress Corner Mini Plaza. The sidewalk and a few parking spots were removed to create a new plaza that will feature a public gathering space with new hardscape, landscaping, arbor, lighting, seating, decorative tile and decorative benches to enhance the area. According to the City of Walnut Creek website, the plaza will include synthetic play mounds for children and a new outdoor parklet with arbor. The parklet will be similar to the one at 1321 Locust Street, where a few on-street parking stalls along North Main Street will be converted into a platform to allow for a gathering space with features such as seating areas, table tops and planters.

The project is a public-private partnership between the City of Walnut Creek and Walnut Creek Downtown and is expected to be completed in late fall. Businesses near the project will remain open during construction. The city hopes to see the project bring some public art, a little lending library, and artistic bike racks.

income home energy assistance Other: Community Development Block Grants

Over $675 billion in federal funds are distributed based on census data.

California receives about $76 billion based on population. Contra Costa County receives 40% of its revenue from state and federal resources. If Contra Costa County undercounts by even 5%, we would lose an estimated $1.1 billion over 10 years. This is why we have been actively engaging partners in the county to make sure that everyone is counted once, only once, and in the right place.

A significant change in the 2020 Census is that this is the first time the Census will be online. This will make it easier to respond to because there are more options for self-response with the intent of reducing door to door canvassing. However, with these improvements come some challenges, particularly inequitable access to the Internet.

Contra Costa County has established a Complete Count Steering Committee. This committee brings together community leaders, nonprofit agencies, and media experts to work together

to ensure we have a complete count in 2020, particularly the “Hardest to Count” populations in the county. The Steering Committee has established Regional Working Groups in four regions across the county in order to better connect with local organizations, businesses, faith groups, and residents.

The three main takeaways for this 2020 Census: • It is easy: It is a short questionnaire that takes about 10 minutes to complete.

• It is safe: By law, the Census can’t share your information with anyone, including other federal and law enforcement agencies, etc. We really want people to feel safe sharing their Census information.

• It is important: Census data helps determine our political representation and funding for local roads, schools and community improvement.

Contra Costa County has recently announced grant opportunities for outreach and assistance with the Census.

There are so many ways to get involved in this work. I encourage you to visit www.contracosta.ca.gov/census2020 to learn more.

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Estate Planning Can I Refuse an Inheritance?

BY JEFFREY HALL, Elder Law Attorney

Why would anyone want to refuse an inheritance? Although it is surprising to many, there are several circumstances where declining an inheritance can be beneficial. The law does permit you to refuse an inheritance if you comply with certain strict requirements. The legal term for a refusal of an inheritance is a “disclaimer,” which is defined as an irrevocable and unqualified refusal to accept an interest in property.

When Is a Disclaimer Beneficial?

1) Avoidance or reduction of estate, gift, and income taxes. In 2019, the federal estate tax exclusion amount is $11.4 million for an individual and $22.8 million for a married couple. This means that only estates that exceed this amount are subject to estate tax. Because most people do not own such a sizable estate, using a disclaimer to avoid federal estate taxes is less common now than in the past. However, some states have estate or inheritance taxes applicable to estates of a much lower value. If your estate will be subject to those taxes, disclaiming an inheritance may make sense if the next beneficiary in line (as named in the will or under state intestacy law) is taxed at a lower rate than you.

In addition, a disclaimer provides a way for you to provide a gift to the next

beneficiary in line without having to worry about the gift tax. If you decide to disclaim an inheritance for tax purposes, it is considered to have never belonged to you. Obviously, you cannot make a gift of something that was never yours! As a result, it does not count towards your annual gift tax exclusion amount (in 2019, $15,000 for an individual and $30,000 for a married couple) or your lifetime exclusion amount of $11.4 million for an individual.

If your inheritance is an asset that produces income, such as an IRA, and it will likely shift you into a higher tax bracket, a disclaimer may be beneficial if you do not need the extra income. Of course, the next beneficiary in line will also benefit, especially if that person is in a lower tax bracket.

2) Eligibility for certain benefit programs. If you are trying to qualify for certain government benefits at some point in the future and the inheritance would jeopardize your eligibility, disclaiming the inheritance may enable you to become eligible.

Warning: For some benefit programs, an effective disclaimer must occur several years before you apply for aid. Generally, government benefit programs will not allow you to disclaim an inheritance when you are already receiving aid in order to maintain your eligibility or, if you do disclaim an inheritance, you may be disqualified from receiving those benefits. Check with us to make sure that a

Experienced Estate Planning Attorney

JEFFREY HALL, MBA, CPA, Esq.

disclaimer will not be viewed as invalid under state or federal law.

3) Allowing the inheritance to pass to another beneficiary. If you do not need an inheritance and the next beneficiary in line does need it, a disclaimer can allow it to pass to that beneficiary with minimal expense or hassle. It will not be counted as a gift from you, so you will not have to worry about the gift tax.

A disclaimer can also be used as a way to correct uneven inheritances. For example, if a parent intended for his two children to receive inheritances of equal value but one of the children receives an asset that has decreased significantly in value from the time the will was drafted, the child who received the inheritance of higher value can disclaim all or part of her inheritance to help realize the parent’s original intention. This strategy will only work if the person who received the smaller inheritance is the next beneficiary in line. It is important to keep in mind that the person who is disclaiming the inheritance has no control over who will receive the inheritance after the disclaimer. The identity of the next beneficiary in line is the person named in the deceased person’s will or trust or, if there is no will or trust, the person specified in the state intestacy law.

What Are the Requirements for a Qualified Disclaimer? Some aspects of disclaimers are governed by federal tax law and others by state property law. Under federal tax law, which regulates how disclaimed property is treated for tax purposes, a “qualified disclaimer” must meet the following requirements: I’m not in trouble anymore!

The Law Office of Jeffrey Hall, Inc., is an estate planning law office serving Contra Costa county in a wide range of estate planning matters, including:

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• The disclaimer must be in writing.

• The writing must be delivered to the person controlling the property (usually the executor or trustee).

• The writing must be delivered within nine months after the interest was created or the disclaimant turns 21, whichever is later.

• The disclaimant must not have accepted the disclaimed interest or any of its benefits (except for a distribution from an inherited IRA under limited circumstances); and the property must pass without the direction of the disclaimant according to the decedent’s plan of distribution.

State law controls which types of property can be disclaimed as well as the requirements for a valid disclaimer. The laws of some states mirror the federal tax law, but others have different requirements. We can help ensure that your disclaimer is valid under both state and federal law.

Contact Us Today

Disclaiming an inheritance is a strategy that you may not have considered, but it may be able to help you achieve your estate planning and tax-saving goals. We can help you evaluate your individual circumstances to determine whether a disclaimer will benefit you. Consult with your neighborhood estate planning attorney, Jeffrey Hall. You may visit his website at www.HallLawGroup.com or call (925) 230-9002. We are a veteran owned --veteran friendly law firm.

Disclaimer: this article is not intended to be relied upon as legal advice nor the establishment of an attorney-client relationship.

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Aloha Falcons

On September 12, the varsity cross country teams traveled to the Island of Honolulu, Hawaii for the 21st Iolani Invitational. The team spent four days in this beautiful island and got to race on the beautiful Kualoa Ranch. The Lady Falcons finished the race in an impressive second place overall and the boys finished 8th out of 23 teams.

Reigning Softball Champs

The Bears have done it again. They took home the winning trophy at the Pleasant Hill Parks and Rec D.2.2 Softball Championship on September 19. The Bears beat the ‘70s Style Bush 22-9 and then beat WTF 22-7 to win the championship. The Bears’ Phil Javete said, “We beat some good teams last night. The skipper, Tom Brikovich, devised a great line up that produced 44 runs on the evening. We had great defensive plays and an outstanding pitching performance from the mound by our ace - Andy Tharp.”

CP Volleyball

Girls College Park Varsity Volleyball goes undefeated and are the East County Invitational 2019 Blue Division Champs!

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SPORTS

Lady Falcons Run an Impressive Race

BY COACH MIGUEL CASTRO

At the Nike De La Salle Invitational on Sept. 21 a squad of all underclassmen, took the girls team title over Division I NCS Champions and runner up, Amador Valley and Dougherty Valley. The lady Falcons were led by sophomore Aiyana Lawler who finished in 5th place and set a personal best in 18:46.96. Sophomores Lindsey Reed and Isabella Alviz finished in 14th and 15th place in 19:28 and 19:29. Freshman Grace Reed stayed strong and finished in 19:43.6, good for 22nd place. Sophomore Marlo Taylor came through as the fifth scoring member of the team and solidified the girls’ team victory. Freshman Jessica Chisar finished 6th for the team in 22:12.27. Sophomore Brooke Simpson was the final member of the varsity squad finishing in 23:35.62. The strength of this team is that there are four front runners who are constantly pushing each other in practice and in races and their order is constantly switching depending on the course.

The Varsity boys were led by Senior Ethan Gaigalas who finished in 16:48.77.

Sophomore Diego Flores finished 3rd for the boys and set a new personal record in 17:45.9. In his first 3 mile race of the season, freshman star, Alex Lamoureux, finished 4th for the team in 17:47.3. The boys took 16th out of 40 teams and beat out Diablo Athletic League rivals, Clayton Valley, Las Lomas, and Concord.

On the JV front, the girls saw a number of athletes step up and race three miles for the first time. Sophomore Catherine Mitchell had a great performance in 11th place to earn an individual medal and a fast time of 22:36.7. Freshman Vienna Tung also finished

in the top 25 out of 91 runners in 23:09.4.

Junior Ana Huerta also broke the 24 minute barrier in 23:46.08. The JV girls finished in 6th place out of 11 teams and ahead of DAL rivals, Benicia and Las Lomas.

The JV boys showcased the depth that will make some noise in the next year or two.

They were led by Senior Kyle Pickle who finished in 45th out of 195 runners with a time of 18:01. Junior AJ Stefanski (49th), sophomore Harley Santos (52nd), junior Nicholas Guliaev (81st), and junior Django Casamajor (97th) rounded out the scoring five. The JV boys finished in 7th out of 23 teams and beat DAL rivals, Clayton Valley, Las Lomas, Acalanes, and Concord.

The freshmen trio of Hailey Halford, Mae Gunter, and Maeve Gagnon had strong sub 16 minute performances in their first race this season. Freshman Linsey Blackman and Sophomore Emese Szakats rounded out the scoring five for the frosh/soph girls team. The girls finished in 7th place out of 15 teams.

Freshman Ivan Richards lead the frosh/ soph boys team. In the frosh/soph unlimited race, sophomore Ethan Leach set a personal best in his first race of the season and earned a medal with a 6th place finish in 12:48.28.

Other Falcons that set personal bests were sophomores Samantha Parton and Haley Joseph and freshman Virginia Garcia.

On the boys end, freshmen Gabriel Sekel, Jacob Harn, Samuel Fischer, Max Baril, Caden Nakamura, Lucas Ziegler, Zander Flynn, sophomores David Bawolski, Noah Velasquez, Ashton Searle, Nicholas DeSilva, Jose Sanchez Lopez, juniors, Tyler Gonsalves, RJ Ruiz, Carl Leung, and Jared Caballero.

LtoR Isabella Alviz, Aiyana Lawler, Lindsey Reed, Marlo Taylor, Grace Reed, Jessica Chisar and Coach Castro.

OURCOMMUNITYFOCUS.COM | OCTOBER 2019 | 13

SPORTS

Sierra Shootout Champs

College Park Falcons Varsity Water Polo team attended the Sierra Shootout (Rocklin, CA) over the September 7-8 weekend. The Falcons went 4-0 and captured the Championship Division Title! That’s right. The CP Falcons are the 2019 Sierra Shootout Champions! The opening day of the tournament included wins over #1 seeded Woodcreek High School (Roseville, CA) and Tamalpias (Mill Valley, CA), who ended College Park’s NCS run in the semifinal game of the 2018 NCS Tournament.

The team registered 49 goals on the weekend, including 16 from Will Ennis (Sr.), 10 from Caden Carpenter (Jr.), and 10 from Maclain Shaver (Sr.). Coach John DeLuca made a risky goalie change over the weekend, giving the reigns to senior 2MD Tom Austin, who ended the weekend with 33 blocks.

Update on Ryan Joseph

College Park High School Falcon Ryan Joseph, son of Kristin and Tom Joseph, suffered a life changing spinal cord injury in a wrestling meet in January of 2018 that left him paralyzed from the neck down and unable to breathe on his own. Since that time, Ryan has been at the Craig Hospital in Colorado working feverishly to regain mobility and showing amazing strides. He’s been breathing on his own and talking for some time and was just recently filmed walking 18 feet unassisted! Ryan has been undergoing hours of intensive therapy five days a week and has made tremendous progress since being part of a new research study that uses electrical stimulation directly over the spinal cord. Ryan’s goal is to come home and graduate at College Park High School.

Renovation to the Joseph family home to make it accessible for Ryan is 90% complete but has stalled due to lack of funds. You can still donate to help the Joseph Family with medical expenses, rehabilitation, and home accessibility by searching “Ryan Joseph” at www.gofundme.com.

DIABLO FC SOCCER

RECREATIONAL FREE RECREATIONAL PROGRAM WHEN: Fall 2019 - Mid-August to mid-October WHO: Boys & Girls born between 2009 and 2015 WHERE: Newhall Park, Concord WHAT: Diablo FC has teamed with its sponsors to offer a completely free Rec Soccer Program for local youth. Our professional coaches will work with the kids and parent volunteers to provide one weekday afternoon training and Saturday morning games for 8 weeks in the fall.

Senz Three-peats!

Pleasant Hill resident John Scott Senz won the Special Olympics of Northern California (SONC) 2019 Folsom Golf Regional Tournament on September 15, at the Empire Ranch Golf Course. Senz, who has won this event three years in a row, shot a 75.

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Principal’s Corner

Merit Winners and New Academic Intervention Counselor JOSEPH G. ALVAREZ PRINCIPAL, COLLEGE PARK HIGH SCHOOL

We have started another successful school year! Please continue to follow us on Twitter @CPHSFalcons where you will be able to see

and hear about our fantastic students’ endeavors. Speaking of outstanding students, please join me in congratulating Ryan Kilcoin and Andrew Morehead for their distinction in being selected semi-finalists for merit scholarships.

Both young men are tremendous students and continually show their Falcon effect.

Marine Band West Coast Tour

A decade has passed since the scarlet coats of “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band last appeared on stages along the West Coast. However, on October 16, the band will return and play a free concert in Lafayette. The 7:30pm performance will be held in the Acalanes High School gymnasium and is sponsored by the school’s instrumental music program.

Free tickets are available (limit four per request) by visiting marineband.ticketleap.com. Seating is general admission and ticket holders must be seated by 7:15pm. Remaining seats will be released to the standby line at that time.

In the style of the band’s 17th director, John Philip Sousa, who initiated the concert tour tradition in 1891, Marine Band Director Col. Jason K. Fettig has chosen a diverse mix of programs, from traditional band repertoire and Sousa marches to instrumental solos and a salute to the Armed Forces. Fettig remarked, “We always try to highlight music on our programs that celebrates the region we are visiting, whether it be marches that provide a connection or folk music that might be associated with certain areas of the country. We have tremendously appreciative patrons who come to Marine Band concerts for all types of different experiences, so our programs are designed to include a great variety of music that mirrors the wonderful diversity in our national musical heritage.”

After Sousa left the Marine Band in 1892, “The President’s Own” made only five tours, in 1901, 1907, 1911, 1912, and 1915, before traveling yearly between 1920 and 1931. The band suspended its tours during the Depression years of 1932-1934 but took to the road again in 1935 and continued until 1942. During World War II, the band played many additional performances in Washington, D.C., and at the White House to boost wartime morale. The Marine Band’s national concert tours resumed in 1946 and have continued every year since.

By the end of the tour, the Marine Band will have traveled more than 3,000 miles along the West Coast, performed 28 concerts in 5 states, and made stops in Washington, Oregon, California, Nevada and Arizona.

The Marine Band is America’s oldest continuously active professional musical organization. Founded in 1798, the band has performed for every U.S. President since John Adams.

Known as “The President’s Own” since the days of Thomas Jefferson, the Marine Band’s mission is to provide music for the President of the United States and the Commandant of the Marine Corps.

On September 20, approximately 75 students marched to increase awareness for climate change. These students showed intent and robust purpose. During this peaceful demonstration, they were able to reflect their message and bring awareness to a very relevant topic.

One new structure in place for this year is our academic intervention counselor, Ms. Gillete, who supports 9th and 10th grade students in getting back on track through counseling and tracking of grades, attendance, and overall progress. These early years are pivotal in establishing strong study skills and the development of self-awareness. One ongoing goal is to increase A-G completion rates, and I’m sure Ms. Gillete will help get us there. Speaking of new support staff, please welcome our new College and Career Counselor, Mr. David

Walters, who begins on October 1.

Our fantastic choir will once again sing at the new Chase Center in October. Please come out and support them! Have you heard our incredible pep band? You must come out and hear them during our home football games.

I’m certain they provide our football team with the additional boost they need!

Our community truly is second to none. On Saturday, September 28, we had a group of dedicated individuals come out and clean and support the campus beautification projects. Thank you all so very much for you help and support at this annual event.

Now entering my 4th year at CPHS, I continue to be amazed at our fantastic staff and students! #WeAreOne #FalconUp!

College Park Falcon Football Poker Tournament You’ve gotta know when to hold ‘em, Know when to fold ‘em, Know when to punt it away,

And know when to run…

Please join us for a festive evening in support of the College Park Football Program. Our Texas Hold ‘em Poker Tournament puts the FUN in Fundraiser! On Saturday October 19th at the Pacheco Community Center, we will be holding our first annual Poker Night. There will be delicious food and drink, exciting poker, irresistible raffle prizes plus the best camaraderie in town. You don’t want to miss it! Sponsorships are available, please contact Christina Kozina kozina0209@gmail.com/(925) 787-7311 Date: October 19th, 2019 Location: Pacheco Community Center 5800 Pacheco Blvd, Pacheco, CA 94553 Time: Doors open at 5 PM cards fly at 6 PM Poker Buy In $80 Dinner Only $25

Here is the link to signup online: https://squareup.com/market/college-park-boosters/item/poker-tournament-2 OURCOMMUNITYFOCUS.COM | OCTOBER 2019 | 15

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AHA Letter to Parents Honest Facts Regarding College Hazing

Dear Mothers and Fathers of Incoming College Freshmen:

My name is Debbie Smith. In 2005, my son, Matthew Carrington, was tragically killed in a hazing ritual while attending California State University, Chico. His death stings every single day, often as horribly as it did on that fateful day.

I wish someone had told me what I know now about hazing and college life.

When you send your child to college, you are coaxed into believing the institution will care for them as you would. I learned this is not the case and have a knowledge bread of personal experience, but it sickens me how hard I have to work to deliver the message. Bless the news media, but they have agendas.

Here is the reality of what your child is facing: 1) Peer pressure with the intensity of a throbbing headache. If you went through college, you understand this, but in retrospect, our minds often block out the bad and focus on the good. I will always remember what happened to Matt because I am reminded of it every day.

2) An intrinsic calling to fit in. Matt didn’t need or want to fit in, however, he

felt that call to help others fit in. So, while your gut might say, “My child is an individual,” please know it is often the individual who is most susceptible to the dangers of hazing because s/he feels the intrinsic pull to shoulder the burden of the group as if it were their cross to bear. It is these beautiful souls who are most at risk.

3) Drugs and lots and lots of alcohol.

Regardless of who your child is at home, freedom and peer groups have a way of tugging at one’s curiosity. Matt and his fellow pledges were not drinking alcohol or under the influence of drugs that night, but the young men who were in charge of his “hell week” were. Their decisionmaking facilities were awash in lots and lots of alcohol, and critical decisions about Matt’s health were made without a clear mind. Frankly, that is what killed my son.

4) Unprecedented Freedom. When we send our kids off to school, they are experiencing actual agency for the first time. Some young adults are equipped to handle it, some revel in it, and some shudder at the mere concept. I believed Matt was ready for the freedom because he didn’t require micro-management parenting. However, when freedom is mixed with a caring, sweet soul like his, it can create a sense of responsibility to manage

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internal conflict on a personal level. While this is critical to the development of a child, asking for help and knowing when to seek that guidance is just as vital.

Here is what I recommend you do: 1) Hug them with a caring heart and express genuine compassion for what they are going through. College is a blast, but it is not easy. It is a time of extreme growth, and as we all know, most growth comes from failure.

2) Tell them family is forever and make sure they not only hear you but also feel you. They need to know your love is unconditional. The essence of this sentiment is what will foster a relationship of adult trust between you and your child, which is a vital element to their development.

3) Have the conversations that make both of you uncomfortable. They may fidget and squirm as much as you are inside, but, believe it or not, these are the very conversations they will call upon in those moments of vulnerability. Ditch the abstract lesson and share personal stories that deliver your point. This roots your advice in reality and allows them to see you as an ally in their quest to figure life out.

4) Remind them how long life can be.

In college it can feel like every little thing will make or break your life. When decisions are made from this mindset, critical insights fundamental to good decisions are lacking. Remind them to loosen their grip on life every once in a while and allow life to breathe.

For the record, I don’t believe there are any risks in educating our children on the dangers of hazing. The only risk is assuming your child can handle all that college life will throw at them without the guidance and loving support of their family. You know your child best. Hug them. Talk to them. Nurture them. Love them. We beat hazing with awareness and responsible adult behavior that values accountability. Talk to your children because you’ll never know when it could be the last time.

If you want to have a real conversation about hazing and the lunacy of trusting an organization to govern Greek behavior when they benefit from its very existence, please feel free to send me a direct message.

Sincerely, Debbie Smith, MM

Time to Apply for FAFSA

High school seniors planning to attend college or technical school next fall should fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, also called the FAFSA, as soon as possible, beginning October 1, according to KHEAA. Information on the FAFSA determines if students qualify for federal grants and student loans. It is also required when applying for state grants and scholarships. In addition, many colleges use the information to award their own grants and scholarships.

The FAFSA asks for information about income, assets, and expenses. A formula set

by Congress determines eligibility for federal and state aid. If the student is considered a dependent under federal guidelines, both the student and parents must provide financial information. Nearly all students going directly to college from high school are considered dependent.

Some student aid programs have limited money and provide funds on a first-come, first-served basis, so it is important to submit the FAFSA as soon as possible. Even if students don’t think they qualify for financial aid, they should still submit the FAFSA. They may be surprised because student aid rules change all the time.

KHEAA is a public, non-profit agency, established in 1966, that improve students’ access to college. It provides information about financial aid and financial literacy at no cost to students and parents. KHEAA also helps colleges manage their student loan default rates and verifies information submitted on the FAFSA. For more information about those services, visit www.kheaa.com.

Estate Planning

Estate Planning for Blended Families

BY DANIEL DuREE

The issues involved in estate planning are both complicated and emotionally charged for any family. Things become even more difficult when a husband or wife has children from a previous relationship. The decisions become more important because of the possibility that children from a previous relationship may not end up with anything if the surviving spouse spends all of the assets or changes the estate plan. If the children are strictly provided for, there is also a possibility that the surviving spouse may not have enough money to support him or herself.

This is a very common issue and can be dealt with in a couple of ways. With proper legal planning and communication, many potential problems can be mitigated. I will discuss the three most common ways of dealing with estate

planning for a blended family. We will assume the family is using a revocable trust for probate avoidance.

Leave all assets in control of the surviving spouse

A married couple can create a jointly settled revocable trust with agreed upon beneficiaries and spouses acting as cotrustees. In its most simple form, when one spouse dies, the other spouse is sole trustee and the trust is still fully amendable and revocable by the surviving spouse. What this means is that even if the children of the deceased spouse were initial beneficiaries, the surviving spouse has the power to amend the trust and remove them as beneficiaries. It is not uncommon for a surviving spouse to amend a trust years after the death of the first spouse because their relationship with some of the initial beneficiaries (e.g., the deceased spouse’s children) has changed over time. The other potential issue arises when a surviving spouse enters a new relationship and amends the trust in favor

October Surprises

BY COLLEEN CALLAHAN

October is a month filled with surprises and changes. Halloween costumes are on display and stores have lots of candy. The light is changing and we can feel autumn has arrived. October is a challenging month for insurance agents. It is a perfect storm of deadlines.

Fourth quarter continues to be a very busy time for those in the employee benefits market. It mostly means rate increases and benefit changes. Sometimes there are uncomfortable meetings with employers followed by annual employee education meetings.

October 15 is the kick-off for the Medicare prescription drug annual election period. It is time for those on Medicare to review their plan, evaluate the formulary, and check to see if medications are still covered. Of course, there are also deductible and copay

changes for 2020. If a change to a different drug plan is necessary or if you are over 65 and want to enroll for the first time, the application deadline is December 7. All plans start over on January 1.

At this time of year, there are long waits to get help from insurance carrier customer service people. Keep in mind that some of them might be new at the job. Be prepared when you call for help by having your plan name, ID number, and pen and paper handy.

Make sure to get the name of the person helping you, and record the date and time you made contact. Ask the representative to provide the reference number for the call. Keeping all this data could help with any mix-ups later. While on hold, you can plan your Halloween costume! Please call or email me if you have questions.

Colleen Callahan, CLU, CASL, LUTCF. Colleen Callahan Insurance Services is located in Pleasant Hill. Contact her 925.363.5433 or ccallahan@callahaninsurance.com.

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of their new significant other.

Split the Trust at the Death of the First Spouse

Another option is to split the trust in half at the death of the first spouse with half of the trust being irrevocable and earmarked for the deceased spouse’s children. The trust can be drafted so that the surviving spouse has access to all of the income but none of the principal, or all of the income and a certain percentage of the principal per year. It can also be written so that the surviving spouse only has access to the deceased spouse’s half after they have spent their own half. Of course the danger with this scheme is that the surviving spouse needs the assets to care for him or herself and is unable to access them.

Give the Children Their Share at the Death of Their Parent

The easiest way to deal with estate planning for a mixed family, if practical, is to simply leave a certain amount of assets to the children when their parent dies.

That way, the children are provided for and the surviving spouse has control over the remainder of the assets to support him or herself. Although the children may not end up with as much as under the split trust scenario, they will receive the money earlier and the surviving spouse will be better protected.

There are numerous other permutations of a trust that can combine different aspects of these three approaches. If you have any further questions, don’t hesitate

to call and I will be happy to discuss this and any other estate planning issues in further depth.

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.

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TRUSTS • WILLS • PROBATE OURCOMMUNITYFOCUS.COM | OCTOBER 2019 | 19

PAIR UP

Fruits of Labor Day

Take Advantage of Summer and Fall Fruits

BY MARIA TERRY

In the month of October, we start thinking about the sweet treats of Halloween.

However, sweet things come in many forms.

Here is a menu filled with food and wine that have a little to a lot of sugar. The trick to making it delicious is keeping the sugar balanced by other flavors like tart, spicy, and

even bitter.

Start your meal with Sweet and Spicy Chicken Skewers paired with a Gewürztraminer Vendange Tardive from the Alsace region of France. Vendange tardive (“VT”) means “late harvest” in French. The phrase refers to a style of dessert wine where the grapes are allowed to hang on the vine until they start to dehydrate. This process, called passerillage, concentrates the sugars in the juice and changes the flavors within

Sweet and Spicy Skewers

Pulled Pork Sliders

INGREDIENTS For the sauce: 4 garlic cloves, pressed ¼ cup honey 2 Tablespoons Sriracha 2 Tablespoons soy sauce ½ Tablespoon fresh grated ginger 1 teaspoon ground black pepper ½ teaspoon salt 1 lb. chicken breast, skinless 1 Tablespoon olive oil Lemon wedges, for serving A handful of cilantro, chopped, for serving DIRECTIONS

In a small bowl, whisk together garlic, honey, olive oil, Sriracha, soy sauce, ginger, black pepper, and salt.

Cut chicken into small cubes, about 1-inch. Place them in a Ziplock bag and pour in the marinade. Squeeze out as much air as possible and zip the bag. Marinate for at least an hour or overnight in the fridge.

Preheat the oven to 400°F. Soak skewers in water for at least 30 minutes.

Thread marinated chicken cubes in the skewers, about 4-5 pieces on each. Line a baking sheet with foil, drizzle with olive oil, and arrange chicken skewers on it.

Put marinade into a small saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.

Reduce heat to medium and simmer until sauce is reduced by half, 3-5 minutes.

Brush reduced sauce on chicken and bake until fully cooked, 15-20 minutes, turning and brushing on the sauce halfway.

Yield: 9 Skewers

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

INGREDIENTS 4 to 5-pound pork shoulder, bone-in 1 Tablespoon brown sugar 2 teaspoons cumin 1½ teaspoons paprika ½ Tablespoon salt 1 teaspoon pepper 1 Tablespoon olive oil 2 medium yellow onions, peeled and cut into wedges 3 medium carrots, peeled and cut into large chunks 4 cloves of garlic, peeled 1 14-ounce can diced tomatoes 1 12-ounce beer (a basic lager works well) DIRECTIONS Preheat the oven to 325°. Trim the pork shoulder of any thick layers of fat. Combine brown sugar, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Rub pork with spice mixture, getting into crevices and on the sides.

Allow the pork to sit for about 30 minutes.

Heat olive oil in large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown pork on all sides, about 3 minutes per side. Remove from pot.

Add onions, carrots, garlic, tomatoes, and beer. Bring to a simmer, scraping bottom of pot with a wooden spoon to bring up any browned bits.

Return the pork to the pot. Cover and put in oven for 3 1/2 to 4 hours, checking once or twice, until meat is extremely tender and pulls away from the bone easily. Shred pork in the pot, using tongs to separate the meat from the fat. Discard the bone or set aside for another use.

Yield: Enough for about 20 sliders

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

it. Some vendange tardive wines are just a little sweet, most are quite sweet, and all are characterized by great richness and have an intense honey flavor. A wine with some sweetness is necessary when pairing with a spicy sauce like the one in this chicken.

Additionally, acid in the wine, just like lemon, balances the heat perfectly.

Alsace is also home to world-class Pinot Gris. It is made in a VT style or a regular version. Non-VT Pinot Gris has high acid, no sugar, and intense flavors of stone and tree fruits. The recipe for Pulled-Pork Sliders served on Hawaiian rolls has warm spices like cumin and paprika to balance out the brown sugar. The acidity of the wine cuts through the fat and provides the acid balance for the dish. On the side, serve JicamaCilantro Cole Slaw. The big flavors in this

Mocha Chocolate Chip Cookies INGREDIENTS ½ cup softened butter 1 cup light brown sugar 3 Tablespoons granulated sugar 1 large egg 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon salt 1½ teaspoons ground coffee 1¾ cups all-purpose flour 1½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips ½ cup chopped walnuts, opt.

DIRECTIONS

Preheat oven to 300 degrees. Cream butter and sugars with electric mixer on medium speed until fluffy (approximately 30 seconds).

Beat in egg and vanilla extract for another 30 seconds.

Beat dry ingredients into butter mixture (flour last) at low speed for about 15 seconds. Mix in chocolate chips.

Drop large, golf ball-sized scoops of cookie dough onto a cookie sheet about 3 inches apart.

Bake for about 15 minutes or until lightly browned around the edges.

Yield: 2 Dozens

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

recipe also need a wine with substantial acid and intense flavor. If you can’t find an Alsatian Pinot Gris, try a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc.

Most cookies are just straight-up sweet.

This recipe for Mocha Chocolate Chip Cookies balances its sugar level with bitter coffee.

But, don’t be fooled into thinking that a bitter wine works. You need a sweet, rich, red Port. This super sweet wine is full-bodied with red fruit flavors that complement the richness of the chocolate.

So, go on. Pair Up!

Maria Terry is a certified sommelier and wine educator in the San Francisco Bay Area. www.LaSommelierre.com.

Jicama-Cilantro Cole Slaw

INGREDIENTS 1 large jicama, peeled and finely shredded 1/2 Napa cabbage, finely shredded 2 carrots, shredded 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice 2 Tablespoons rice vinegar 2 Tablespoons ancho chili powder 2 Tablespoons honey 1/2 cup canola oil Salt and freshly ground black pepper 1/4 cup finely chopped cilantro leaves DIRECTIONS Place jicama, cabbage, and carrots in a large bowl. Whisk together lime juice, vinegar, ancho powder, honey, and oil in a medium bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Pour dressing over jicama mixture and toss to coat well. Fold in the cilantro. Let stand at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving.

Yield: 6 Cups

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

OURCOMMUNITYFOCUS.COM | OCTOBER 2019 | 21

IN THE MIX

In the Mix

What Makes a Great Halloween Song?

BY PAUL COTRUVO

A few days ago, I put my iPod on shuffle (yes, I still have an iPod) and up popped a song I hadn’t heard in a few years. It was Elvis Costello’s version of a very disturbing song called “Psycho.” It is a chilling song written years ago by a country singer songwriter named Leon Payne.

The singer innocently describes to his mother various murders he has committed until the song ends with the revelation that he has just killed his mother! It’s an incredible “murder ballad” with such a chilling ending. If you can find this gem, I highly recommend you make it a part of your music collection. And it’s perfect for the upcoming Halloween season.

That’s right, Halloween! Which means it’s time to DVR “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown.” Yep, nothing

says Halloween like spending the entire night freezing to death in a pumpkin patch! But I digress. Anyway, before you put that costume on and head out for the night, don’t forget to throw some great Halloween music onto your phone (or iPod)! As I started making my playlist and pondering what would make the ultimate final list, it made me think of what makes a great Halloween song.

Does it always have to be about zombies and ghosts? Serial killers and politicians?

Absolutely! And if it has a good beat, then even better!

Here are my top 10 selections for Halloween: 1) “Monster Mash” by Bobby “Boris” Pickett. So, yes, I am old and I know this song is somewhat lame, but it brings me back to my childhood, and I do think it still holds its charm today.

2) “Psycho Killer” by Talking Heads.

“Qu’est-ce que c’est fa fa fa fa fa…” Just

a nice upbeat creepy tune. The title says everything you want to know.

3) “I Put a Spell on You” by Screamin’ Jay Hawkins. Hold on to your seats because Jay’s about to take you on a ride. Timeless!

4) “Dead Man’s Party” by Oingo Boingo.

“Waiting for an invitation to arrive/Goin’ to a party where no one’s still alive.” This would be a great tune for your Halloween dance party.

5) “Thriller” by Michael Jackson. What can you say about this classic? This video changed everything!

6) “Ghostbusters” by Ray Parker, Jr. Say what you will, but I know you know every word of this one. “I ain’t afraid of no ghosts.”

7) “Don’t Fear the Reaper” by Blue Oyster Cult. It isn’t spooky at all until you consider the lyrics told from the point of view of some death-friendly dude trying to induce his gal to join him and not “fear the reaper.”

8) “Highway to Hell” by ACDC. Pure,

straight ahead in your face rock and roll!

(Add “Hells Bells” for a nice 1-2 punch as well).

9) “Werewolves of London” by Warren Zevon. Personally, I find the lyrics to this song brilliant! My favorite line? “I saw a werewolf drinking a piña colada at Trader Vic’s. His hair was perfect.”

10) “Tubular Bells Part 1” by Mike Oldfield. This is the theme song from the movie, The Exorcist. Perfect creep vibe to this tune. Just do not serve splitpea soup when listening. You’ve been warned!

And to add just one more in the creepy vein: “Somebody’s Watching Me”

by Rockwell. The word “paranoia” comes to mind. I’m sure you have your favorites, but these would be a great addition to your playlist, whether you’re having a party or just handing out candy to the ghosts and goblins.

Quote of the Month: “I’ll bet living in a nudist colony takes all the fun out of Halloween.” ~~Anonymous

Paul’s Picks

October 4: After the Rain, Roxx on Main, 627 Main St., Martinez, 8:30pm October 5: Frankie G. & the Conviction, PH Art & Wine Festival, 40 Crescent Dr.-4:15pm October 5: East Bay Mudd, PH Art & Wine Festival, 40 Crescent Dr.,6:45pm October 6: David Martin’s Houseparty, PH Art & Wine Festival, 40 Crescent Dr., 4:30pm October 6: Drew Harrison In the Spirit of Lennon, Armando’s, 707 Marina Vista, Martinez, 4pm October 12: Brooks Lundy, Rocco’s Pizzeria, 2909 Ygnacio Valley Road, WC, 8pm October 12: Beer Drinkers & Hell Raisers, Retro Junkie, 2112 N. Main Street, WC. 9pm October 16: The Big Jangle, Armando’s, 707 Marina Vista, Martinez, 7pm October 25: Crying Time, Roxx on Main, 627 Main St. Martinez, 8:30pm October 26: Featprints, Armando’s, 707 Marina Vista, Martinez, 8pm October 27: Sunday Paper, Armando’s, 707 Marina Vista, Martine, 4pm

Live Music Venues

Armando’s: 707 Marina Vista, Martinez, www.armandosmartinez.com Back Forty: 100 Coggins Drive-Pleasant Hill, www. backforty.us WiseGirl: 1932 Oak Park Blvd. Pleasant Hill, www.wisegirlph.com Dan’s Bar: 1524 Civic Drive Walnut Creek, www.dansbar.com Roxx on Main: 627 Main St. Martinez, www.roxxonmain.com Rocco’s Pizzeria: 2909 Ygnacio Valley Road Walnut Creek, www.roccospizzeria.com Retro Junkie: 2112 N. Main Street Walnut Creek, www.retrojunkiebar.com Vinnies: 2045 Mt. Diablo Street-Concord, www.vinniesbar.com 22 | OCTOBER 2019 | OURCOMMUNITYFOCUS.COM

Stronger Than You Know Did I Ask Your Opinion?

BY DENA BETTI

The cozy family room was overflowing with men and woman.

Most of them were regulars to the group.

On this evening, we came together to embrace the fascinating exploration of two lofty words, “I am.�

Little did I realize the evening’s events would also teach me the powerful connection between vulnerability and courage.

For two hours we experienced the vulnerability of many people in the room as the host led the group through lectures, discussions, and self-exploration exercises. During these discussions we heard stories about the darkness of depression, the shifts in identity associated with divorce, the grief of loss, and the scars of childhood traumas.

By the close of the evening there was a closeness and compassion I felt for each

• Do a mindfulness practice that allows for advice.â€? She was taken aback and the person in that room. I deeply respected you to define your intentions for sharinteraction became a bit awkward, but I their bravery in exploring their emotions ing your feelings. For example, “It is my was tremendously proud of myself. I had and expressing them publicly. To me, it intention not to blame.â€? spoken my truth. was such a beautiful demonstration of • Before you speak to a trusted advisor

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From the Contra Costa County Historical Society

A History Note Archives and Archivists

BY MARJORIE NEWTON

October is National Archives Month.

An archive is a place where historical papers are stored. Located in the Telfer building on Escobar Street in Martinez, the History Center is an archive of documents and papers about Contra Costa County. The Telfer Building used to house the Telfer Oil Company, which later evolved into Telfer Pavement Technologies. Prior to becoming an archive, the building served as the site of Internal Affairs for Contra Costa County’s Sheriff’s Department.

Executive director and chief archivist of the Contra Costa County Historical Society is UC Berkeley Ph.D. Priscilla Couden.

Using maps, newspapers, Superior Court records, biographies, obituaries, tax assessment records, a library of reference materials, and collections contributed by individuals, Priscilla can locate many

individual records, including the marriage license of John Marsh to Abby Tuck in 1851. Priscilla’s daughter, Sara, was recently a fellow at the Metropolitan Opera and sings opera.

Aside from Priscilla, the History Center’s staff is made up of unpaid volunteers, some of very long standing. For instance, our former executive director, Betty, is a wealth of information on local history and is the author of Amelia’s Nortonville. The book can be purchased on our website, from the bookstore in our archive, or our website. Betty has an interesting history that includes entertaining troops during World War II, performing her tap dance routine.

We have photos in our archive. If you wonder what the Mothball Fleet looked like, come in and ask Janet, the head of our photo department, and she’ll show you pictures. Janet is from England

Pleasant Hill Senior Activities Oct. 10 - Care Management Series Presents… “The Ten Minute Cognitive Workout” 2pm. Learn how to manage your mood and change your life in 10 minutes a day. The Cognitive Workout is a simple, easy-to-learn exercise that modifies thoughts.

Changing thoughts modifies emotions. How we feel derives from what we think. Presented by author Peggy Snyder * Free, but please RSVP to 798-8788 or online.

Oct. 17 - Fall Taste of the Vine 3pm. Cozy up with us for the perfect fall happy hour.

Wine, food & laughter with a chance to win some prizes! Non-alcoholic beverages available. Sponsored by WiseGirl Ristorante & The Kensington. Purchase tickets online or at the front desk. $13 presale, $18 after 10/11

and was educated as a biochemist. She chanced by, noticed our display, came in to volunteer, and has been with us since 2011.

Lost your yearbook? A copy could be in our collection. Jim is always scouting various sites and sales and gathering local yearbooks. He would love to add your yearbook to our collection. He is interested in music and sports and collects baseball cards. He also leads tours of the archive.

Would you like to see a copy of your grandparents’ immigration records?

Some of these records include pictures.

Margie copied the index of the records, so now names can be found on our website (www.cocohistory.org) by clicking on databases, and then Immigration and Naturalization Papers. Margie first volunteered in the 1990s, when the History Center was located near the present Pleasant Hill Library. You may have read her articles in the monthly Community Focus.

Peggy is a retired geologist who is in charge of our maps. Among the collection are maps dating from 1775 to the present. There is a plot map of downtown Martinez that lists the homeowner of each lot. Peggy has a dog that she has given up on training.

Intern Adria recently indexed the Bernie Freedman collection. Freedman collected newspaper articles about every school in the county. For instance, in his collection, information on the John Swett District schools begins in 1905. There were two high school graduates that year. Adria has a Master’s Degree in Museum Studies from the University of Oklahoma and an MBA from Saint Mary’s. She and her pilot fiancé are planning a wedding in June.

When you come to visit, you may meet some of our other volunteers who have tasks that are not archival but are necessary to the running of the History Center. Steve, our treasurer, is a retired Chevron employee; Jennifer, our bookkeeper, has a degree in art history. Together, they handle our finances. Scott, a former Bank of America employee, keeps the computers and the website running.

Maxine is an archivist trained at Simmons College in Boston. She helps out on our monthly 1st and 3rd Saturday openings.

We hope to see you soon.

“A History Note” is presented by the Contra Costa County History Center, 724 Escobar St., Martinez. Open hours: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, & Thursdays, from 9-4, and first and third Saturdays, from 10-2.

Check out www.cocohistory.org

Oct. 22 - How to Download Library e-Books 1-2pm. Learn the basics on how to download the Library’s e-books to your device. Bring your device to the presentation.

We will be signing people up for library cards so you have access to the books. Free presentation, but please RSVP to 798-8788 or online.

Oct. 22 - Senior Fusion: There’s no place like home! 2-3pm. Senior Fusion is a nonprofit initiative that helps improve seniors’ wellness through increased awareness and adoption of assistive technology solutions. SeniorFusion will present an interactive workshop highlighting various technology devices and services while explaining their use, benefits, challenges and costs.

Oct. 29 - Medicare 2020 - What you need to know 1pm. Medicare Open Enrollment is Oct. 15 -Dec. 7. Get an overview of the 2020 changes affecting Medicare Prescription and Advantage Plans in our county. Presented by Contra Costa County HICAP Medicare Counseling * Free, but please RSVP to 798-8788 or online Oct. 30 – Halloween Bingo Bash 3pm. $5 spaghetti lunch at 11am. Tickets required and can be purchased ahead of time during Bingo. First 100 people receive a free dauber. $100 BONUS jackpots on 5 games! Plus, exciting raffles & giveaways throughout the day.

233 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill 925-798-8788 Register for classes and events at www.pleasanthillrec.com 24 | OCTOBER 2019 | OURCOMMUNITYFOCUS.COM

(LtoR) Janet, Scott, Rich (in back), Kaori, Priscilla, Peggy, Maxine, and Susan

Read My Mind

Š

The Escape Room

BY MICHAEL G. HARRIS, OD

Have you ever been trapped in an elevator and the lights go off? I have, and it’s no fun. I actually got stuck twice on the same day in two different elevators at a newly opened luxury hotel. Glad I’m not claustrophobic! Have you ever played an escape room game where you have to solve a series of clues to get out? (I did an escape room with friends years ago. If it weren’t for dumb luck, I’d still be stuck there.) Which brings me to the plot of Megan Goldin’s intriguing debut novel, The Escape Room. “What if the popular party game of people stuck together in a room — trying to escape only with vague clues provided by their captor — turned lethal? What if the stakes were life or death?� Goldin’s book is the thrilling story of four co-workers trapped in an elevator escape room.

The story begins on a Sunday morning when a security guard discovers that an elevator in a recently constructed high-rise was in use over the weekend while the building was supposedly empty. He hears screams followed by several gunshots. When he gets to the plaza level and sees the elevator doors ajar, he calls 911. Goldin’s novel recounts

what happened in the elevator over the weekend in gruesome but deliciously entertaining detail.

Victor, Sam, Jules and Sylvie are Wall Street “high flyers� who work for Stanhope and Sons “in the lucrative world of finance.�

Thirty-six hours earlier, they were called to an offsite meeting at a branch office in the newly constructed high-rise.

Once in the elevator and heading to the meeting site, something goes awry. The elevator stops abruptly at the eightieth floor. The lights go off and the doors won’t open.

The elevator has become an escape room. It’s a “corporate team-building exercise that starts on the eightieth floor� until everything goes wrong. Suddenly, the stalled elevator’s television monitor comes alive with a message: “Welcome to the escape room. Your goal is simple.

Get out alive.� The four are trapped in “a dangerous game of survival,� with no way out unless they solve a series of cryptic clues. Their success in solving the clues and getting out will determine if they receive annual bonuses, keep their jobs, and maybe even keep their lives.

In alternating chapters, we follow the trials and tribulations of these bitter rivals as they struggle with each other and try to solve the series of clues that will get them out of the elevator. In flashbacks, we learn of their most hidden secrets.

Juxtaposed with these chapters is the story of Sarah Hall, one of their former co-workers who died under mysterious circumstances several years ago.

Sarah narrates the story of her life as she abandons her intention to become a doctor and joins the high stress world of mergers and acquisitions to help support her ailing mother.

As I read this thrilling novel, I tried to solve the clues myself and figure out

what happened to the four co-workers.

Much to my wife’s chagrin, I’m usually able to figure out “whodunits� midway through the book. The plot of The Escape Room is so well conceived that I couldn’t even begin to figure out what happened until the very last chapters. This made for an extremely exciting pageturner.

As one reviewer put it, Goldin’s book is “a sleek, well-crafted ride to a surprisingly twisty conclusion, posing a satisfying and unexpected question at the end: What if escaping the escape room means changing who we are?� I recommend this book wholeheartedly and eagerly look forward to Goldin’s next novel.

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

The Legend of Georgia McBride

Lafayette’s Town Hall Theatre Season 2019/20 kicks off with Matthew Lopez’s fabulously flamboyant comedy The Legend of Georgia McBride. Performances include

two previews and two Sunday matinees, September 26 through October 19, at Town

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Hall Theatre Company, 3535 School Street, in Lafayette. Tickets are $18 - $30 and are "

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The Legend of Georgia McBride is a gender-defying, sweet and campy, hilarious,

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young Elvis impersonator transform himself into a platform pump pantyhose wearing drag queen? In a wild flurry of costume magic and lip sync coaching, “Georgia McBride� is born - a little bit country and a little bit rock and roll. Directed by Cindy Goldfield with cast as follows: Casey: Andrew Mondello, Jo: April Deutschle, Miss

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Diablo Valley Oncology

Breast Cancer Screening and My Personal Journey

BY MICHELLE FRANKLAND, NP

My mom was 42 years old when she was diagnosed with breast cancer, her sister (my aunt) was 42 years old when she was diagnosed with breast cancer, and their brother (my uncle) was in his 50s when he was diagnosed with prostate cancer. I am 42.

Working as an Oncology Nurse Practitioner with Diablo Valley Oncology for 15 years, I casually knew that I had more than an average risk of breast cancer. My concerns were pushed further into the back of my mind once my mom’s genetic testing came back negative for the BRCA 1&2 mutation. Having said that, the combination of turning 42 and helping run our Multidisciplinary Breast Cancer Clinic prompted me to seek further screening.

I requested a screening breast MRI and anxiously awaited the results. The MRI

showed that I had two suspicious areas that required biopsy, which they proceeded to obtain. I received a phone call with my results: “You don’t have cancer, but you do have a high-risk lesion, so surgery is recommended.” I was not prepared for that; I was prepared for cancer or no cancer!

Approximately 10% of breast cancers are hereditary, 65% are considered sporadic, and the other 25% are familial, which is the category I most likely fall into, assuming genetic testing does not show a BRCA mutation or any of the other genes known to be associated with breast cancer (like PTEN, PALB2, CHEK2, and others). One quarter of all breast cancers have some sort of familial link, and this is the group that really needs to understand its risk.

The first step in understanding risk is talking to your family. Find out if parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, etc. have had cancer and, if so, what kind. Next, talk to your health care provider who orders and reviews your mammograms. Ask if you have

dense breast tissue and if there are any areas the radiologists are monitoring. Third, initiate a conversation about cancer risk with your gynecologist or primary care provider.

Ultimately, the best and most comprehensive way to understand risk is to talk to a genetic counselor and then, if recommended, undergo genetic testing.

Of all the appointments and procedures I’ve gone through over the last month, I dreaded meeting with the genetic counselor the most. Being the mother of two young children, I always hope that I have passed on the best of me to them, not a genetic mutation that increases cancer risk. Having said that, I am so very thankful to have met with the genetic counselor. She brought me back to my logical/practical self, the one that now understands that my genetic test may very well show a mutation, most likely not BRCA since my Mom tested negative, but a mutation that falls into a category of VUS, “variants of unknown significance.” If you have a VUS, the genetic testing labs and geneticists will follow the mutation as scientists seek to understand if it does, in fact, increase cancer risk. 98% of VUS are ultimately found to be benign. Therefore, instead of worrying or being disappointed that I may have passed on a genetic mutation to my kids, I can focus on the fact that understanding my risk will aid in seeking appropriate and necessary screening and surveillance for my kids.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This month, make it a goal to learn more about your family history and tell your friends to do the same. If you have had

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breast cancer and not had genetic testing, talk to your providers to understand if you would benefit from it. If you have not had breast cancer, talk to your provider to see if you should be referred for a genetic risk evaluation. I feel fortunate that I knew to ask for additional screening and had that conversation with my healthcare provider.

In each step of this process, my emotions have fluctuated from fear and anxiety to gratitude.

In my years of oncology work, I have seen so many cancer patients find the “silver lining” in their journey. My silver lining is “Now I really get it.” When patients talk to me about the stress of scheduling the neverending list of necessary appointments, the anxiety and fear of waiting for test results, or the utter discomfort of a breast MRI, my empathy is real and sincere. Soon I will also know the emotions that come with surgery, the post-operative pain and recovery, and the impact a big surgery has on my family, my friends, my career, and me. While I have several options, I have decided to have a double mastectomy with reconstruction.

This is a decision made with confidence and certainty after truly coming to understand my risk.

Michelle Frankland is an Oncology Certified Nurse Practitioner with Diablo Valley Oncology & Hematology Medical Group. She is also the Nurse Navigator for the Women’s Cancer Center of the East Bay, both located in Pleasant Hill. Michelle can be reached by calling 925-825-8878.

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MAKE SOME PLANS

october 1

october 5 & 12

october 20

december 7

Pleasant Hill Garden Study Club

Become a ESL Tutor

Rise Up Against Hunger

Hidden Valley Elementary Holiday Craft Fair

In just two hours, 10am-12pm, help package 10,000 nutrient-rich meals for the undernourished. Students (ages 4 and up) help parents and grandparents make food pouches. St. Andrews Church, 1601 Mary Dr., Pleasant Hill.

Donate and sign up at standrews-pcusa.org/

Free admission, photos with Santa, kids crafts table, face painting, book fair, bake sale, & unique shopping from 30+ local crafters & vendors. A fun, festive, community event! facebook.com/HVEHolidayFair. 10am-3pm, 500 Glacier Dr., Martinez.

Club meets Tuesday, 7pm. “Gardening for Butterflies” will be presented by Prof Arthur Shapiro of UC Davis. Free, all are welcome. Pleasant Hill Community Center, 320 Civic Dr., Pleasant Hill. www.phgsc.com

We will teach you to be a tutor! $20 covers materials and training. You must attend both sessions and commit 1-2 hours per week after you’re matched with your student. Training: 9am-1pm, Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Concord. For details, visit dvlc4esl.org

october 5

october 5

5K Run & Walk, Kids Fun Run

Magic Club

Yours Humanly 2019 Break a Sweat for Education event at Heather Farm Park, Walnut Creek, will fund local MDUSD students, global educational programs and resources for underprivileged children. Race registration at www.

BreakASweat.run.

Assembly #112 Magic Club meets the second Wednesday of each month at the Denny’s Restaurant, 1313 Willow Pass Rd., Pleasant Hill.

6:30-7pm – Greet and Meet Time, 7-8:30pm – Workshop Time (learning new effects or Lecture time), 8:30-10pm – Performance Time (bring a trick to perform). https://sam112.com

october 5 - 6

october 12

october 26-27

ongoing

Art, Wine & Music

Martinez Home Tour

TreasureFest

Volunteer with Seniors

17th Annual Art, Wine & Music Festival features wine tasting, craft brew, live music, arts and crafts, a Kidzone, and more.

Saturday,10am. – 6pm and Sunday, 11am6pm. To see the music line up, visit www. pleasanthillchamber.com/art-wine-musicfestival.

Visit homes in Martinez ranging in age from 48 years to 98 years in age. Tour begins at The Shell Clubhouse, 1635 Pacheco Boulevard in Martinez. Visit http://martinezhometour.com for more information.

October 20

One part shopping, one part feasting, and one part music and entertainment.

A unique monthly festival that showcases the best of the Bay Area. 10am-4pm. Located at 500 Ave N, Treasure Island SF. $7 general entry, kids under 12 are free. Free parking. Pet friendly. www.treasurefest.com

Spectrum Community Services is looking for individuals who would like to volunteer in senior centers all around the East Bay. Please call Spectrum Community Services at 510-8810300 ext. 242 or fill out an application at www.

Spectrumcs.org.

october 19

september 28-29

ongoing

Zombie Crawl

Many Faces of Brain Cancer

Volunteers for Senior Van Service

Sample craft beers from various breweries stationed at participating small businesses along Main Street from 1:30-4:30pm. Costume contest 1:30-3:30pm.

For tickets and details visit downtownmartinez. org.

Join an engaging panel of medical experts as they explore key advances in neuro-oncology. The panel will offer insight into latest treatments. Speakers include Maxwell Merkow, MD, James Rembert, MD, Gigi Chen, MD. RSVP to sjung@dvohmg.com or 925-677-5041 x272. 6:30-9:30pm, Cancer Support Community, 3276 McNutt Ave, Walnut Creek.

Pleasant Hill Senior Center Van Service is looking for a volunteer ride schedule dispatcher. Only one morning shift each week (9-11am). For more information, visit pleasanthillca.org/seniorvan or call 925-671-5288.

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

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Pleasant Hill

COLLISION

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

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

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Buses every 20 minutes. Tour guides on buses. Allow 2 or more hours for the Tour.

Martinez Historical Society

HISTORIC HOME TOUR

See interiors of 7 homes. Live music. Demonstrations. Vintage cars. Complimentary beverages.

Saturday October 12th 2019 10 am -- 4 pm

The Tour features “50 Years of Homes” – and begins at the Shell Clubhouse in Martinez. Visit the website for more Tour information: www.MartinezHomeTour.com . Please support the Tour sponsors which include these local businesses:

Shell Martinez Refinery

Shell Chemical