Delta Living Magazine Winter Issue by Delta Living Magazine

Winter 2024

Lanzafame Furniture Company Gone But Not Forgotten 20

Rivertown Treasure Chest a Map of Fabulous Finds 14

Working Wonders Journey 24 #

Bethel Island's Scout Hall Turns 70 32

Can't make it to this Sacred Ceremony and Sound Bath? Email Tracy for the next scheduled event at the email above 2

DLM | Winter 2024

Congratulations to Antioch small business of the year

Pictured L-R is County Supervisor Dianne Burgess, Rivertown Treasure Chest owners Deb Blaisure, Toni Licks, Antioch Chamber board member Ana Walters and president Daniel Sohn

Winter 2024 | DLM

CONTRIBUTORS Glenda White-Kugler Publisher Wendy Turner Editor/Graphic Design/Writer Conrad Borba Creative Director/Graphic Design Randy Cook Copy Editor/-Writer Ad Sales 925-322-1936 Working Wonders Distribution Tammy Larsen Contributor Deb Blaisure Contributor Chuck Dybdal Writer Jo Bruno Contributor Matt Schwab Contributor Traci Silva Contributor

Letter from the Publisher W

elcome to our “Post Covid” issue and our 11th Birthday issue. It has been a tough two and half years, but we keep pushing on. I respect the businesses that are local and small for putting up with Delta Living Magazine through thick and thin for the last decade. During Covid we did not print anything, but we did a lot of stuff online supporting our publications and local businesses here in the East Bay Delta. We were not able to do events which you know we love. I am saddened by some of the businesses that lost the fight with Covid restrictions.You were the best! Now upon entering our 12th year as of January 1st, I want to thank our readers, contributors, and our customers in hopes that the new year will bring much to everyone we have touched with our pages of information. We have so many stories to tell that we cannot shut things down. I love learning about people, history, businesses, and services that people choose to do. Covid was a time to reflect on where we were, where we wanted to go and how to get there.Yes, there were days that I just covered my head and went back to sleep or ate whatever I could find.Then I had an epiphany to rejoice and renew where I was at in my life. Many people decided to change careers, work from home or just not work.Whatever the decision was, it is where we need to be today. Helping one another succeed. Buy gifts from the individual seller, shop local gift and antique stores, buy the ad, draft the story, sponsor a page, an event, or a raffle prize. If someone is offering information for a more advanced business, for example insurance or legal shield offer to listen and pass on referrals. Knowledge is power. No matter what we all will come out as winners. Please patronize the businesses in this issue as they have been a wonderful to us here at Delta Living Magazine. Happy Holidays & Happy New Year Glenda White-Kugler Publisher

SUBSCRIPTIONS

$20 per year (4 issues a year) Contact glenda.deltalivingmag@gmail.com to sign up.

Delta Living Magazine is published quarterly on recycled paper. Copyright© 2024 by Glenda White-Kugler. Single copy price $4 in U.S.A. on 100% recycled paper. $20 for annual subscription. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited. Printed in the U.S.A. E-version available on Issu.com/deltaliving. Contact glenda.deltalivingmag@gmail.com, 925.322.1936 or visit www.deltalivingmagazine.com. All rights reserved. No part of any issue of Delta Living Magazine, be it editorial content, photographs or advertising design, may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means; electronic, mechanical, photocopy, or any other format, without the prior permission of the publisher. All facts, opinions and statements appearing within this publication are those of the writers and editors themselves and are in no way to be construed as statements, positions, views or endorsements by the publisher of Delta Living Magazine. Accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed. Due to uncertain nature of U.S. Postal Service and third party freight services, Delta Living Magazine does not guarantee delivery of said publication by any specific date.

DLM | Winter 2024

Delta Living Magazine Vision PURPOSEFUL. PROGRESSIVE. PASSIONATE.

At Delta Living Magazine, we understand that it's not enough to just believe that people deserve the very best quality publication in their community. We do everything in our power to ensure we get it— right here. By leading the way, we change perceptions of what it means to deliver community-centered stories by introducing experienced writers that make up their area of expertise to invest in our people and our cities that attracts committed businesses to act as a guiding force in the way people think about their communities and well-being.

In this issue…

20 “I can't imagine Pittsburg without Lanzafame's,” Faye Carol 06 - Nebraska is Arbor Day Headquarters 08 - “Beloved” Ethinic Designs Habatique Style 10 - The Point of No Return 12 - Plaza ajardinada pequena que existe en el centro de un pueblo 14 - Rivertown Treasure Chest Flying into the future, Holding on to the past 16 - Traveling Post Pandemic 18 - The Legend Known as “Mr. Pittsburg” Earns a Bronze Bust 22 - Ghost Tourin' in Wine Country 24 - Once a Journey, Now a Working Wonder 26 - Preparing for the Unexpected 28 - Community Pride filled with the Arts 30 - Homeless But Not Hopeless 32 - History of Scout Hall 36 - Ebb and Flow of Healing Ones Life 38 - Remembering Cha Cha Winter 2024 | DLM

DELTA greens

NEBRASKA

is Arbor Day Headquarters By Glenda Kugler

› Arbor Foundation has Trees for America program that helps replant our forest. Arborday.org/replanting › The Tree City USA® program is nationwide that supplies the necessary for communities to mange and expand their public trees. Aids, public attention, and national recognition for urban and community forestry visit arborday.org/ treecity

ven though Arbor Day was in May, and I no longer live in Nebraska, I have to share with you the fundamental value of this national holiday. And the significance of visiting this National Landmark. As a child we went there on field trips to apple picking festivals, tour the Morton home and to learn about the Underground Railroad at John Brown’s Cave not too far from the Arbor Lodge off the banks of the Missouri River, another National Landmark. J. Sterling Morton (yes, the same family of Morton Salt) first proposed a tree planting holiday on January 4, 1872, to the Nebraska’s State Board of Agriculture calling it “Arbor Day”. To this day it is estimated that on this very day more than one million trees were planted throughout the state on that first Arbor Day. Other states soon followed and passed their own legislation to observe Arbor Day, and the tradition began in schools nationwide in 1882. Celebrated by all fifty states and more than forty countries around the globe. It is one of the most celebrated holidays for nature lovers. Headquartered in Nebraska City, Nebraska, Arbor Day Farm, a National Historic Landmark is part of the original estate of Arbor Day originator J. Sterling Morton’s family. It now serves members and guests from all over the world who experience the many conservation demonstrations they hold. The Tree Adventure ® attraction, which includes Nature Explore ® Classrooms, Lied Greenhouse,Treetop Village, and miles of scenic woodland trails, is helping visitors of all ages discover the wonder of trees. Arbor Day Farm is home to Lied Lodge, a 140-room Adirondackstyle lodge with dramatic fireplace entrance, fitted with all the amenities to make any family gathering or business meeting an inspiring success. One thing we can pass on from generation to generation is the gift of trees. Your support today helps the next generation to inspire, teach, plant, nurture and celebrate trees. DLM 6

DLM | Winter 2024

› The Community Tree Recovery™ plays a key role in areas that are rebuilding from tornadoes, hurricanes, wildfires, and other national disasters. Arborday.org/ recovery › The Rainforest Rescue® program has been helping save tropical land and the countless living things that thrive there. Plants of rare medicinal value and animals found nowhere else on Earth, it is an irreplaceable treasure. Arborday.org/ rainforest › The Backyard Woods helps landowners in the United States who own 1-10 acres, the informative sheets can help turn your land into a place of great personal satisfaction and a real benefit to the environment for and your family. Arborday.org/backyardwoods

JOIN TODAY

and you can enjoy the many rewards of your membership. Get discounts on trees, bushes, flowers from their online store or catalogue, tree guides, free gifts and more. They are a nonprofit so you can also gift give. Want to plan a vacation and stay at the beautiful lodge? Visit the Arbor Day Farm. Go to arborday.org for more information.

Give the gift that will last a lifetime.

Ifgot yousick got sick couldn’t work, would pay pay your Join meme to discover life insurance If you and and couldn’t work, would yourbills? Join to discover life insurance who who bills? with living benefits and tax-free retirement plans with no risk of losing your money! with benefits and tax-free with no of losing your money! living retirement plans risk

Protect family, home, andsavings savings with with access benefits before you die Protect youryour family, home, and accesstotoyour your benefits before you die if diagnosed with a qualifying illness like cancer, heart attack or stroke! if diagnosed with a qualifying illness like cancer, heart attack or stroke!

You upgrade your phone every couple of years …

You upgrade your phone every couple of years … NOW is the �me to upgrade your life insurance! NOW is the �me to upgrade your life insurance!

Turner Insurance Service

Learn More About Living Benefits

Wendy Turner, Agent Life

CA #0M06742 License 925-428-0187 Mobile Wendy Turner, Life Agent familylivingbenefits@gmail.com CA License #0M06742 wendyturner.freedomequitygroup.com 925-428-0187 Mobile

familylivingbenefits@gmail.com wendyturner.freedomequitygroup.com

Local Author Alert! Randy Cook

Local horror macabre writer Randy Cook from Pittsburg has the perfect macabre novels to read this year that will keep you wanting to read the next installment. Or to give as stocking stuffers for the "horror" fan on your list.

BUY

at amazon.com or email thesirrara@yahoo.com N O W Online to purchase an autographed copy Winter 2024 | DLM

DELTA fashion

“ Beloved” By Habiba Hall-Bell

s an African American female entrepreneur there were never items in stores that reflect my ethnicity. The lack of available ethnicity items that appealed to me inspired me to begin creating and selling my own products since 1995. Habibatique Ethnic Collections started creating and selling various products throughout the years such as women’s Afrocentric clothing, scented shea butter, oils, and different cosmetic accessories. I have always had an entrepreneur spirit by hosting home parties at an early age to get products to help beautify my surroundings. However, it was not until 1995 when I decided it was time for me to fabricate and create my own items. I started experimenting with different creative products and found I was exceptionally good at it. I took several classes at local stores for example Michael’s and JoAnn’s and the occasional adult night classes. I facilitated youth classes, and I took a bow making class to make wedding decorations. Future endeavors lead me on the path of then making bath salts, scented shea butter and selling matching oils thereby creating my very first specialty line. One year, a co-worker asked me to design an angel for her tree. She never would stop asking me so, determined I sat and made her an angel plus eleven more and sold them all on the job. Then came painting when my sister and I went to the local flea market in Georgia I picked up some figurines and let us just say I cannot remember how many I sold but many of my customers have one or two of my painted figurines. So many memories since then drafting this article brough back so many positive things I have learned and created in my past. Habibatique as part as our international outreach efforts collected shoe boxes with gifts to be donated to children in Ghana, Africa. Habibatique previously also has hosted Kwanzaa festivals and numerous luncheons, with guest speakers, published authors and special contests for children. We have had comedians perform parades, 5K walks, food, and craft vendors. Hababitque this past year designed one of my most beautiful lines of earrings with Adrinka Symbols from Ghana, West Africa along with the specialty line called “Beloved” meaning “terms of endearment” which sold out quickly. This journey not only has prepared me for ambitious spirit in retiring this past September, but the man above continues to bless me. Even though I no longer "create", I now celebrate life in Georgia. DLM 8

DLM | Winter 2024

Ethinic Designs Habatique Style

Don't get lost in the shuffle of loan language Whether you need to refinance an existing commercial property, home mortgage or need Acquisition Financing, I can help you structure a commercial loan that meets your needs.

Michelle Paxton

Senior Loan Advisor NMLS#831343

Cell: 408.891.0090 Michelle.Paxton@SupremeLending.com Michelle.Paxton.SupremeLending.com 1550 Parkside Drive, Ste 135 Walnut Creek, CA 94596

Winter 2024 | DLM

delta living purr purrFect Fect pets APRIL - JUNE 2017

JULY – SEPTEMBER 2017

magazine

Inspiring stories across 1700 miles

magazine

all creatures… great and small

What To Look For In A Pet Sitter Norma Quintanilla

Meet Delta Living's new owner

House Training 101 Shauna Fackler

ppm deltalivingmagazine.com

How to Love Someone whos been 1Abused July – September 2017 18

Teachings from Miss Beedle 20

dlm deltaLivingmagazine.com www.deltalivingmagazine.com

FIN-TASTIK TROPICAL FISH 18

purrfect pets magazine

The Point of No Return By Glenda White-Kugler

he last year has been what I call a “beginning period” of whether a business stays, closes, opens, or fails. Then the last two and half years have been a total cluster **** as we were thrown into the abyss of the unknown. Trusting that our government officials, physicians, and the public would be educated enough to save us rather than most of us ending up down the rabbit hole. COVID-19 not only showed us how “crooked” our government could be. But it showed me that all those years of watching those Hollywood movies about disasters and viruses that there was no cure for were coming true. How could we be misled as a generation that “knows” better. We do not. Then came all the ruckus of plotting each of us against one another because of the color of our skin. Pathetic how people can be so ignorant. It is like we are a generation that belongs to a “cult” that tells us who we can like, love, where we can shop, eat or not. Not only that but whatever happened to “cash”? During Covid no cash was accepted. Use your cards so you can be followed, purchases traced, your identity stolen. The entire world went mad. Here now at the end of 2023, I sit and think about how at my age I will never get the last two years back. Selfish I may be, but it amazes me how we can easily be led away by the “Pied Piper.” I have several clients whose businesses did not last during the Covid period and some that have really struggled to stay ahead of the game as rises in rent and products increase. Now on the downside into the new year, we must or should band together and 10

DLM | Winter 2024

support small, local businesses. Remember, the government gave big box stores and restaurants substantial amounts of money, while the local businessperson struggled to get bills paid. I ask you to read our Birthday issue cover to cover because the clients that appear in this issue have kept up the spirit of supporting local. I am a local business owner, and I am a small business owner. Times have been extremely rough on me and the magazine printing business during the last two and half years. I thank and appreciate all the customers that have stayed with us for the last 11 years and to the new customers and friends I will meet along the way in the new year. I also want to thank Yemi Popoola with the Monthly Grapevine for trusting in me for the new year as well. We have collaborated on sales so now you have a quarterly magazine, a monthly magazine, and a trending now to help you with all your marketing needs and more. Delta Living Magazine not only has advertisements, but we also have advertorials which are stories about your business. We offer sponsorship of some of our sections. We have Delta Smilz which shows all of us having fun where we live and play. But most of all I have stories to tell of 101 places to go, things to do, ways to celebrate where we live. Thank you for reading this issue and please shop or use the services in our magazine. I have personally shopped or used our customer services if not it is on my list! Wishing everyone a Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year! And that is “a matter of fact.” DLM

Beauty Professionals

ton•ic: adj; “giving a feeling of vigor or well being, invigorating” Our contemporary urban environment welcomes you with skilled beauty professionals to carryout your every hair and nail vision.

Hours:

If you want it, we can execute it We strive for a reputation for creating distinctive looks, delivering impeccable service and selecting products to support your style.

Monday – Friday: 7:30am–7pm Saturday: 8am–4pm Closed Sundays

Hair Single Process Color, Highlights Full & Partial, Balayage, Baylights, Shadow Root, Root Smudge, Smoothing & Straightening Treatments, Cuts, Razor Cuts, Special Event Styling, Bridal Styling. Extensions: Tape In, Hand tied, K-Tip, L-Tip

Nails

Retail

• Acrylic • Hardgel • Gel Polish • Hand Painted Nail Art • Structure Mani

We now carry Davines Hair Care. Sustainability, Performance, Eco-Friendly Hair Care Products

Gift Cards available

Located in the Shops at Country Club 390 W. Country Club Dr. Suite E Brentwood, CA 94513 Call 925-679-7996 to schedule appointment or connect on Facebook or email us at info@tonicsalon.com

Winter 2024 | DLM 11

DELTA foodie

Plaza ajardinada pequena que existe en el centro de un pueblo By Glenda Kugler

n historic downtown Antioch, 400 G Street has been called a “cursed” place. Why do you ask? Since I have lived here the last eight years that building has been a total of three restaurants. The recession took its toll on Antioch back in 2008 and 2009 leaving a lot of buildings empty just like the pandemic did to so many the past two years. Within the last year owner Humberto Madrigal can be seen delivering food to customers especially on Friday nights at this address. Friday nights La Plazuela hosts a DJ with all kinds of fun and entertaining music. The night my son and I went the atmosphere was uplifting and fun. A birthday celebration was underway, music playing, couples dancing and having a wonderful time. Actually, I cannot remember the last time I had that much fun.The food amazing. (This time on my visit I had the beef enchiladas.) They offer a full menu from appetizers to meatless dishes and everything in between. They also welcome to go orders. All the dishes were appealing to the eye

and delivered hot.The best part was the margaritas. Managers Leticia and Lidia Velazquez state Humberto makes his “own” recipe for the margarita mix. They are delicious, addicting and very inexpensive. (Advise always have a designated driver when drinking grown up beverages.) I have patronized this business three times in the past month more than I have ever gone to any other dining place. Not only the food and drinks were out of the ballpark (pun there for the past “Bases Loaded” restaurant) the atmosphere was appealing to all ages and inexpensive for the whole family. There are a lot of Mexican cuisine around Antioch but there is only one La Plazuela in downtown Antioch and it raises the bar in downtown Antioch dining. Right along with Monica’s and Smith’s Landing. Bringing passion and fun in visiting the Antioch Rivertown district. Humberto also has a location in San Pablo found at 2022 23rd Street with fabulous reviews on Yelp. This one in our very own delta region must be visited by the locals as I cannot describe enough in words how great this place is. Only by visiting and enjoying the fabulous cuisine can you decide for yourself what I have been trying to tell you. Large parties welcome. Party and Patio rentals available. Oh, and did I mention their patio area is dog friendly? It is a time to support local businesses. It is time to come to “the small square plaza” in downtown Antioch, La Plazuela Mexican Restaurant and Bar is waiting for you. DLM

Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 11:30am-8:30pm • Closed Mondays 12

DLM | Winter 2024

Happy

Holiday HOUR

To make you hap p y everyday this sea s on of g iving Offers Takeout *Offers Catering Covered Patio Outdoor Seating (Pet Friendly) Reservations Accepted Rental Area Available Full Bar Handicap TVs for Sports Watching

925-754-1172 Open Tuesday through Saturday 11:30am-8:30pm, Closed on Mondays

La Pla zuel a 4 0 0 G. St r eet, Ant io c h , Ca i n th e h e a rt o f Ri ve rtow n D i n i n g D i strict

Notary Public & Live Scan Services

Mobile Notary Services Live Scan Services Apostille Services

925-308-6060 www.sealedwithintegrity.com sealedwithintegrity@gmail.com By Appointment Only

Winter 2024 | DLM 13

advertorial

Rivertown Treasure Chest Flying into the future, Holding on to the past W

here has the time gone? Rivertown Treasure Chest located in downtown Antioch near the waterfront and is no stranger to the area of antique and collectibles. Toni and I opened this location at 306 G Street in May 2017. We originally started selling at a co-op in Brentwood in 2008 and dreamt of our own shop someday. In May of 2014 we opened our “dream” shop, Oddly Unique at 209 G Street then opened a second shop Oddly Unique Too at 213 G St in June 2015. Then after growing our stores, we found another unique building on G street in 2017 we now saw the chance to consolidate the two stores and open a co-op. Our vendors gave us experience, knowledge, and expertise to share the selling responsibilities which brought so much more to our shops. Toni and I have “picking” in our blood since we both grew up in families that cherished and collected vintage and antique items that they acquired through sales, auctions, or family members to help with our passion within our store. When you come into our shop, we have a “Cheers” type of atmosphere. We love knowing our customers, sharing stories, snacks, drinks and even your furry fourlegged friend can stop by and enjoy their own treat as well. Rivertown Treasure Chest participates in all the downtown events. If you have not been downtown Antioch in a long time, please come to visit all the new and established shops, restaurants and services and watch for businesses soon to be opened. Rivertown is changing daily, and we welcome everyone. Time flies when we are having fun! We try to find all the hard-to-find treasures for you. If we do not have it, sign our Wish Book and we will try to find what you are looking for. We strive to keep the store fresh and appealing if you have any ideas for new products, let us know. Our motto is “Something for all ages from all decades.” Check for all events on our Facebook page, Celebrate Antioch Foundation’s page and Rivertown Merchants page. Hope to see you soon! Debbie Blaisure, Toni Links, and the RTC family 14

DLM | Winter 2024

Visiting the store our inventories consist of: › Antiques › Vintage Collectibles › New and handmade items › Comics › Jewelry › Housewares › Furniture › Toys › Media › Man Cave › Garden › CBD › Various teas and tea supplies › Local honey and nuts › Dixie Belle Paints › And Much More!

advertorial

Rivertown Treasure Chest has the most amazing vendors in the business! Toni and I along with our creative sellers at The Treasure Chest are bringing in unique treasures consistently for you. Check out the windows monthly for newly found treasures and seasonal items! Here is a list of some of our current vendors, their vendor numbers to look for their specialties. 7 – Joani Johnson – One of the vendors that we met when we started in the Brentwood co-op who has bought and sold for years. Her knowledge of antiques and vintage items is endless. She has also sold vintage clothes for years and has quite the inventory of everything! 14 – Sharon Pappas – She has been with the shop since the beginning and was new to the co-op business. Sharon took to it quite nicely and states often that she enjoys it immensely. Her room is always changing with new or homemade jewelry, wind chimes she has made, classy clothes and shoes and so much more…! 18 – Delora – Dixie paints and house plants that ad decor to just about anything. 42 – Derek Baker – He has bought and sold comics since he was a kid and has a very extensive collection of hard-to-find comics at the shop or available if you do not see them! He is truly knowledgeable and ready to educate you on the benefits of CBD products that we also sell at the shop! Derek’s customers are waiting for any new comics he brings in!

63 – Kim Vierira – If you like the window decorations in the large window, you can find the same artistic flare in Kim’s room. She has a very eclectic mix of new and vintage that works! Her talents of decorating are worth the trip to the store to see! 55 – Beverly Knight – Not only does Beverly shoot and frame beautiful photos of Antioch, but she is also helping to clean up Antioch by picking up the broken glass found on the streets and trails. Beverly uses a rock tumbler to upcycle the glass and then creates unique beautiful jewelry. Her newfound talent is amazing and a must see! When you buy one of her pieces, you own a little piece of Antioch! 71 – Kathy Thill – This is Kathy’s second time around at the shop and glad she is back with us! Her handmade jewelry and dot art is impressive and her mix of new and vintage is very appealing! Check out our new line of teas which Kathy will be the one to ask about! 423 – Melanie Bruno – One of our youngest members of the family that is new to co-op selling but learning lots! She has a great mix of new and old items – a little bit of everything! She also is one to ask about the rocks in the shop or her booth! Thanks to Mel for the excellent job at updating Facebook and Instagram for the shop! 919 – Angela DeVictoria – musical instruments and cool vintage items

Winter 2024 | DLM 15

DELTA travels

Traveling Post Pandemic By Tammy Larson

ith restrictions and lockdowns easing around the world, the travel industry is hopeful that 2022/2023 will be banner years for travel. While the emergence of the Omicron variant kept people from traveling at the end of 2021, it did not stop them from dreaming about, and planning future trips.Travelers are still eager to get away. As borders reopened and restrictions loosened, travelers started planning trips further out, an indication of rising traveler confidence. Domestic travel continues to help fuel recovery, especially in North America, but international trips are coming back in a big way. Travelers continue to search for and book destinations outside of their home regions. Italy, Greece, Spain, and Ireland are just the top destinations we are currently seeing booked. Though bookings are up, be prepared to do your research about entrance into any country, as rules are fluid and can change. Most countries are requiring you to be fully vaccinated, including the booster. If not vaccinated, a negative Covid-19 test prior to entry. Most cruise lines accepted only vaccinated passengers, up until this last May, who also needed to present a negative Covid-19 test 2-3 days prior to boarding. According to CDC, cruise ship travel is not a zero-risk activity. The virus spreads easily between people in close quarters. CDC’s framework of Conditional Sailing Orders expired on January 15, 2022, for all cruise lines. Most cruise lines have opted to continue those guidelines when accepting passengers to sail. CDC has lowered their cruising warning to a level 3 from a level 4 in February. Travel Insurance is strongly recommended and sometimes re-

quired. Some countries require you take travel insurance in case you contact Covid-19 and must quarantine in a hotel or be hospitalized. Travel Insured has an add on to their insurance policy at a nominal charge. Bed rest, which would be covered if while on a trip, an unforeseen bed rest is required. You must be treated by a physician for a sickness or injury or an injury during your trip that is required for you to stay on bed rest or is quarantined to your room for at least 48 hours, as prescribed by a physician. Puerto Rico, Hawaii and many other destinations have dropped their Safe Travel program. New York and California no longer have mandates to wear masks or forbid you to enter bars or restaurants. Although certain attractions for tourism may find "masks" are mandated this winter. Central and South America seem to be having a more tough time containing Covid-19 and getting vaccines out. Testing pretravel and during travel for fully vaccinated visitors are required in several South America destinations. The lines are long for testing, and you must quarantine until results come back, but you get results within 24 hours and can continue your travels throughout South America. Every week the CDC updates their warnings. Be prepared, and/ or vaccinated and keep Covid-19 at home test in your travel bag. As an Agency Owner, I get busy with calls asking about travel restrictions. I refer to Sherpa. The industries site to look at when you want to know the travel restrictions to a country. Whether you are vaccinated or unvaccinated, the site will tell you if you can travel to that country and what documentations are required and how to fill out the paperwork. DLM

Tammy Larsen is the owner of Almost There Travel at 506 W 2nd St., along the San Joaquin River. 925-238-0001. www.almosttheretravelagency.com. 16

DLM | Winter 2024

YOU'RE ALMOST THERE, WHEN YOU BEGIN WITH US

Art Council

809 W. 1st Street Antioch, CA

TAMMY LARSEN Owner

506 W. 2ND STREET ANTIOCH, CA 94509

925-325-9897

info@art4antioch.org

ART EXHIBITS

(925) 238-0001 • paradice95@comcast.net Open during exhibits or special event only. www.almosttheretravelagency.com

YOU CAN BUY A HOUSE!! $0.00 DOWN! We offer a 10% D.P.A. Program

Requirements • 640 Credit Score • 45% DTI • 100% Forgivable in 5 years • House must be below 647K in CA

Call Us Now for Details

Winter 2024 | DLM 17

DELTA musings

The Legend Known as “Mr. Pittsburg” Earns a Bronze Bust By Chuck Dybdal

uillermo (“Bill”) Muniz, the late owner of the New Mecca Café was known by many as “Mr. Pittsburg” because of his generosity and love of the city. His legacy was celebrated on Sunday, July 17, 2022, when a bronze bust of legendary restauranteur was dedicated outside the New Mecca Café at the corner of third and Railroad Avenue. Festivities with Mariachi Alma de Jalisco, a group that Muniz, loved to sing and perform, and appeared with occasionally played. The bust, created by Lorraine Vail, was dedicated while local officials and other governmental representatives were in attendance. The Project 4 Band performed with Natural Blend performing later. “We wanted to play for him,” said Jose Gavez, leader of the mariachi band. For Gerald Glasper, founder and lead singer for Project 4, there was no question he would volunteer his bands' services to honor Muniz and repay a personal debt. “When I was in third grade and walking home from school past the Mecca, Guillermo would give me a burrito,” said Glasper. “Who hasn’t he fed in Pittsburg?” Glasper asked. “He believed in his community. We have a philosophy in Project 4 that it is we, not me, and that is what Guillermo believed.” Alfred Silva, Natural Blend’s lead vocalist, concurs. “Guillermo was there for everybody,” he said. “He helped everybody. He would bring food to funerals even if families did not have money to pay for it. He was very charitable.” Like fabled American humorist Will Rogers, Muniz never met a person he did not like. Everyone knew Muniz, and as his wife Terry says, it did not matter if he did not remember everyone’s name because his greeting was always the same -- “Hello, friend.” The bust is the brainchild of Mike Hernandez, who also spearheaded a 2016 campaign to create a bust for Smiley Camitz, who guided Pittsburg’s Pop Warner team to a national championship in 1963, in which they did not give a single point and held opponents to negative yardage for the season. “Everybody was touched by Guillermo,” said Hernandez “He was such a giving guy, particularly to Pittsburg and East County. Hernandez has worked on the project since Muniz’s death on Thanksgiving in 2017 and said all funds for the project were contributed by individuals. The dedication has been stalled for the past two years due to Covid concerns.

The city arranged to block off Railroad Avenue from Fifth street to Third Street, and friends were encouraged to bring chairs to enjoy all the festivities. “We really appreciate the support the city gave to us,” Hernandez said. Colette Simonton, Pittsburg’s Interim Recreation Director (at the time), said the city council has always supported the project. “It was an easy decision to help with the event,” she said. “Guillermo was beloved in the community and gave everything he could to it. He was a staple of the community who meant a lot to everyone.” There was a small amount of money remaining in the fund, and it was donated to Loaves and Fishes as well a percentage of any sales at the New Mecca that day of celebration. Terry Muniz’s sister, Lucy Zendejas, was one of the founders of Loaves and Fishes which started in Pittsburg and now operates out of 17 separate locations in Contra Costa County. Hernandez enlisted the aid of sculpture Frank Vitalie, whose statues honoring early-day Pittsburg fishermen and steelworkers are mounted on Railroad Avenue. Vitalie does not do portrait sculptures but connected Hernandez with Larraine Vail, a friend associated with the Artwork Foundry in Berkeley, because “Guillermo did lots of good for Pittsburg and was always your friend.” The assignment was not easy for Vail. “I had never met him,” she said. “All I had were a number of pictures, mostly snapshots spanning 30 years, it was difficult because I usually take photographs from all different angles to get the correct proportions.” When she first showed Terry Muniz the bust, Vail said Muniz was unhappy because Guillermo’s visage was so stern and asked if she could create a bust with Guillermo smiling. “Smiling is difficult to do because the muscles in the face all the way to the forehead are involved,” said Vail, “and you need to see a smile in the eyes.” But she finally captured the happiness radiating from Guillermo. “He did a lot of good things for so many people,” said Terry Muniz. “He would go to places where he was not even asked whether he was helping families at funerals or schools or anyone for that matter. “He didn’t' ask for anything, but he was always glad to be recognized.” Vail is proud to have been able to create the tribute to Muniz, knowing what he meant to the people and city of Pittsburg. “There is nothing like bronze to cement a legacy,” she said. DLM

You can visit the bronze bust commemorative statue in downtown Pittsburg off Railroad Ave. and Third Street 18

DLM | Winter 2024

amazing GREAT DANE! DELTA kids

For a

"monster"

of a good time check out

the amazing GREAT DANE! Rolling right up to your door to offer rides in the tallest monster truck in California.

Locally owned and operated, licensed and insured. We offer the most "unforgettable" experience! Many options to choose from.

Monster Truck 4 a Cause To book or for more information

call or text 415-580-8260.

Winter 2024 | DLM 19

“I can't imagine Pittsburg without Lanzafame's,” Faye Carol. By Chuck Dybdal

here is a hole in the fabric that is Pittsburg with the announcement the Lanzafame Furniture, Pittsburg's oldest family-owned business and one of Contra Costa County's first furniture stores has closing. The business, started by Sicilian immigrant Camillo Lanzafame, has been a four-generation family-run business, including Camillo's son, Delfo and his wife Frances (“Fay”), grandson Chris and his wife Nancy and later even great grandchildren Jeffrey Lanzafame and Elizabeth Campos. The principles laid down by Camillo continued for more than a century: quality, community-mindedness, and service. Lanzafame first opened the doors of his modern furniture business at 141 Black Diamond Street before moving to 250 Railroad Avenue and finally to its current location at 711 Railroad Avenue when Camillo bought the site and moved his business into a newly constructed building in 1947. Beginning with Camillo, a handshake was enough to have furniture delivered to the families of local fishermen, who would pay after spending summers fishing in Alaskan waters. The same held true with Chris, who would settle for a handshake as a down payment and make immediate deliveries. He was even known to bring furniture to customers on a one-week trial basis and then bring in similar furniture so they could choose the color and style they liked best. “We trusted people,” said Chris. “It did not matter their color or where they came from. We would give them a start, and the 20

DLM | Winter 2024

people would come back.” Since the announcement of the closure, the store was flooded with old customers, many of whom have bought all their furniture there. They come with thanks and with memories and hearing the stories and rekindling old friendships have left the Lanzafames, Chris, Nancy, and Jeffrey, teary-eyed at times. “The whole thing has been bittersweet,” said Nancy. “We'll miss being in the store and coming downtown, but it will be nice to have time with grandchildren, sailing and traveling. We will still see everyone socially, just not at work.” The store's Facebook page is filled with notes of appreciation from long-time customers. Service has always been a tradition with the Lanzafame family. Chris has been known to make a minor repair for a customer rather than sell a new piece of furniture. The Lanzafames have always been advocates of Pittsburg. Camillo, who was elected to the city council in 1949, was an early member of the Chamber of Commerce, serving as the chair of the Membership Committee and later the Board of Directors. He was also instrumental in the construction of Pittsburg's municipal golf course. The multilingual Delfo created a staff that could manage all aspects of the furniture business and was able to converse with people in their own language. Chris tries to share Pittsburg's history with newcomers, promoting the Pittsburg Historical Society Museum and recalls sell-

ing furniture to a new family that lived on Herb White Way and asked if they knew anything about White before providing background on Pittsburg's first Black city council member and mayor. The Lanzafames have provided plenty of sweet music as well as furniture for Pittsburg residents. Camillo played clarinet for Emilio Civita's renowned Pittsburg Municipal Band. Delfo was an even more enthusiastic musician, who played violin for the Vallejo Symphony Orchestra and clarinet with Civita's band and with his friend accordionist James Riso with whom he performed at weddings and dances. Chris also plays multiple instruments and was the drum major for the UC Berkeley marching band in 1975, later helping organize a national tour for the band which toured the country as California's representative during bicentennial celebrations in 1976. Chris, an inductee in the Pittsburg Entertainment & Arts Hall of Fame as is his father, plays with the Pittsburg Community Band, has played with the Los Medanos College Orchestra, with old friend Chooch Lombardo's band and with his sons, Christopher Jr. (piano), Jeffrey (percussion) and Robert (bass, banjo and accordion) in a family group that has played for Pittsburg Community Theatre musicals over the years, once receiving the organization's coveted Gypsy Coat. Over the years, the Lanafames sold refrigerators, stoves, washing machines, radios, and televisions as the East County outlet for Maytag products, but more recently has specialized in custom furniture. Camillo had several partners over the years while providing good, steady jobs to people such as future city council members Joseph Billeci and George Lowy as well as Teamster union members Anthony Nicolosi and Salvatore Enea. Rose Riso, the wife of Delfo's musical partner, worked at Lanzafame's for 40 years as a bookkeeper/office manager. When pregnant with her son, Pete, she took time off and was replaced by Barbara Scotto. She returned, replacing Scotto, who was then pregnant and gave birth to a daughter, Debbie, 51 weeks after Pete's birth. Pete and Debbie were later married. After retiring as Pittsburg Chief of Police, Sal Jimno worked there, in part because it gave him a chance to see old friends who would come into the store.

Chris even has Jimno's old wood stove as a display item, trading a new pellet stove to Jimno for the wood stove when Jimno could no longer cut wood for the wood stove. Lanzafame's was such a hub of Pittsburg news and activities that former Congressman George Miller would stop there to meet with constituents whenever he came to Pittsburg. The store supplied meeting and storage space for local groups and would also provide furniture for Pittsburg Community Theatre sets. It was also a play space for Lanzafame and employee children and their friends. The decision to close was difficult for the family, but the timing may have been right. The business has changed. Delivery delays due to the COVD Pandemic created havoc for customers who could not wait for close to a year to get their specialized furniture. Plus, there is more on-line shopping than in the past. Jeffrey, who has spent 14 years – his entire adult life – collaborating with his father and mother, said when the store celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2015, “There's a lot of tradition and family history here. Being the fourth generation in the business is cool.” But he did not want to continue alone, and with a bachelor's degree in Geobiology from UC-Berkeley as well as a masters from Cal State East Bay, he says he looks forward to doing something in his field of study. Chris and Nancy look forward to going to the Netherlands in June to meet a new grandson who is due in April and will be named Max. Chris plans to stay busy with sailing and hiking and is working on a project to provide music lessons for Pittsburg youth. Nancy will continue creating glass art projects. “It's hard to stop something you didn't start,” said Chris, who is hoping to bring in a new tenant – a furniture store – to the building. “I'm sad that two things my grandfather started, the golf course and this store, are both going to be gone now." Gone, but not forgotten. DLM

Winter 2024 | DLM 21

DELTA hauntings

Ghost Tourin' in Wine Country By Ellen McFarland

he Napa Valley was not always known for wine, in fact, wine tourism is a new thing, only arriving in the valley in the early 1970’s, when Robert Mondavi made a name for himself. Sure, there were gentlemen winemakers, and even monks who made wine, but it was nothing like the wine mecca it is today! No, Napa was known for something else altogether - it’s asylum, for the insane. The asylum, now known as Napa State Hospital was built in 1875, and was one of the largest employers in the Napa. It looked like a large castle, covering acres of land, and was a hub of social activity for both patients locals. Napa State Hospital still exists today, and houses not only mentally ill patients, but the criminally insane. While once it was described as “bucolic” in tourist brochures, there is no mention of it in the world of wine tourism today. Napa, (like many other small towns) has a dark, dark, past! Napa City Ghosts & Legends Walking Tours began in March, of 2014. Two paranormal investigators (Devin Sisk and Ellen MacFarlane) very interested in dark history, took a chance on creating a tour in Napa that did not revolve around wine. This was a risk that paid off, as Napa itself is rich with dark history, including well known figures in history, like, Edweard Muybridge, the creator of motion pictures, who murdered his wife’s lover after a series of scandalous letters. Mr. Muybridge was later acquitted, and found “Justifiably Insane” his wife, Flora, later divorced him and then promptly died of Typhoid Fever, leaving behind a son who Edweard believed not to be his child, and who he abandoned after the trial. There is also the fact that Napa City was the location for the last public execution in California, serial killer Billy Rowe was hanged in the courtyard after he committed a heinous murder of one of the town’s beloved residents, Lucina Greenwood in 1895. He may be dead now, but that doesn’t mean he’s not still around, and our tour, he makes a regular appearance, causing guests to become uneasy, and often scared.You see, we summon him with a mock hanging, and we tell his story. He loves the attention, he is a dead serial killer, afterall. Devin and Ellen have been working in the paranormal

DLM | Winter 2024

field for over 25 years, both have been actively asked to speak and appear on several TV shows, including Ghost Adventures, and in the documentary film, “Haunted Wine Country” released in 2017. They own and operate three tours in three cities, Napa, Sonoma, and Vacaville, and have plans in 2019 to include a mobile ghost tour visiting haunted locations like the ghost wineries, and other haunted locations around the area. They are also event planners and promoters, with their new company, Laughing DevEl Paranormal Productions, which was started in 2016. Currently they have filmed a TV pilot and are filming on their own show, “Paranormal Road Trip” in the Bay Area. While they wear many hats, paranormal investigations and teaching others about working in the field is a big part of the work they do, as is helping trapped ghosts cross over to the other side. They are known for their humor and banter, but at the same time, convey how serious the work they do is. All tours teach local history and the basics of paranormal investigation, each tour is different in flavor. They work with local historical societies to help save buildings, or raise money for nonprofits to fund work needed. They are animal lovers both with a menagerie of cats, dogs, and Ellen once owned a potbelly pig named Louie. Louie has since passed on, but it is an ongoing effort for both of them to help animals, help places, and help ghosts and families who need closure. They often help animal rescue groups with fundraisers or as speakers at their events to raise awareness. To learn more about Napa Ghosts & Legends Walking Tours, or any of the tours, please visit www.napaghosts.com for more details, or find them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/napaghosts. Napa and Sonoma Tours are conducted year round, while Vacaville runs April - November. All tours have something unique to offer, and guests who attend will get to use the same equipment that ghost hunters use in the field, and will take part in a mini investigation. At Napa Ghosts we like to say “Come for the wine, Stay for the spirits!” but don’t come drunk or the ghosts will get you! We hope you will join us soon on the tours! DLM

Get your copy today! www.napaghosts.com

Coming up in our Spring Issue Spotlight on local authors Are you a local author with publications to share? Email glenda.deltalivingmag@gmail.com for story information.

Want to sponsor a section or advertise? Call or email for special pricing. 925-322-1936 or glenda.deltalivingmag@gmail.com

DELTA non profit

Once a Journey, Now a Working Wonder By Matt Schwab

ig things are happening at Working Wonders, a Brentwood-based nonprofit that serves active adults with intellectual and related disabilities in East County. Things are so good that the two-time Brentwood Chamber of Commerce Nonprofit of the Year is looking to expand into a permanent location, to accommodate an increasing number of clients and staff, as well as provide space for on-site vocational training and a Tech Center. Working Wonders currently leases space at a location near Harvest Park Bowl in Brentwood and shares a spot with fellow nonprofit A Place of Learning on Orchard Drive. “We have big plans for our program but are rapidly outgrowing our current locations,” Working Wonders Administrator Christine Schwab said. “We need a permanent location with room to grow for our amazing clients,” With a person-centered approach and an emphasis on health & fitness,Working Wonders is always looking add to its program to help open doors for its clients so they can thrive in their communities. The journey for Matt and Christine Schwab began about 17 years ago when their son, Matthew Schwab Jr., was diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder at the age of 2. After weathering the initial shock, the family of four started mapping out Matty’s future and trying to pick the proper education plan. The parents felt there were not enough programs for their delightful son who showed ability in athletics and music and ultimately sang in the Liberty High School choir and took part in Special Olympics Unified Sports. So they decided to start their own adult program five years ago. Today, Matty, 19, works as a staff assistant for Working Wonders. Many participants in Working Wonders came through the Gateway Program (ages 18-22) for students with disabilities run by Liberty Adult Education. Working Wonders benefits from the great work by instructors at Gateway. Here are some of Working Wonders recent accomplishments: • Joined the Downtown Brentwood Coalition as a Nonprofit Partner. • Started new work projects with the Brentwood Chamber, including helping set up for the 2022 Grad Night at Heritage High School. • Deliver Dino’s sandwiches to BUSD and LUHSD teachers and administrative staff. • Added a document shredding service. • Partnered with Delta Valley Health Club in Brentwood, where Working Wonders’ clients happily play basketball each week. Working Wonders recently had a booth in the Lions Club Special Kids Day, an annual treasure in the County. Working Wonders is also very active on social media, and client families and community members can follow its progress daily on Facebook and Instagram on @letsworkwonders. DLM You can reach Working Wonders via email: letsworkwonders@gmail.com. Website: www.letsworkwonders.org. Phone: 925-626-4750. 24

DLM | Winter 2024

! E L I SM , s t i a r t r o P Product, and event y h p a r g o t pho

For inquiriesand bookings email at: shaunsamuelsphotography@gmail.com @shaunsamuelsphotography Winter 2024 | DLM 25

DELTA finance

Preparing for the Unexpected By Wendy Turner

very day as I scroll through social media, I see multiple posts of people needing to set up GoFundMe accounts because someone died unexpectantly or they were diagnosed with cancer, had a heart attack or stroke. Every year over 1.7 million people are diagnosed with cancer and every 40 seconds someone has a heart attack or stroke. Due to the advances in healthcare, the majority of people survive but are unable to work for a period of time while recovering. The emotional stress of worrying about how they are going to pay their bills may cause the disease to get worse or delay their treatment progress. There is a way to prepare for this type of situation, so you won’t find yourself desperate for help in your time of need. My name is Wendy Turner, and I am an Independent Insurance Broker, licensed in California and many states throughout the USA. I’m on a mission to educate people how to prepare for the unexpected and protect you and your loved ones in case you live a long life, get sick along the way or die too soon with one affordable monthly payment. An Indexed Universal Life policy with Living Benefits gives you a death benefit like traditional life insurance; however, it also comes with Living Benefits and a tax-advantaged retirement plan where you are guaranteed to never lose any money, make market-like gains and have the potential for tax-free retirement disbursements as long as the policy stays in effect until you die. You also have access to the cash value portion of the policy at anytime and for any reason. The Living Benefits consists of critical, chronic and terminal portions. The critical portion will cover you if you are diagnosed with an approved medical condition like cancer, heart attack or stroke. Depending on the insurance carrier and the state you are in there are up to 16 different diagnoses that qualify. The chronic portion covers you if you are unable to perform 2 of the 6 activities of daily living or have cognitive impairment and the terminal portion will cover you if your doctor has diagnosed you with a terminal illness and you have less than 24 months to live. When one of these happen to you, we file a claim with the insurance company, and they work with your doctor to determine the amount of your policy face value you can qualify to receive without dying. The money is given to you tax-free to use with no restrictions. This helps to release the financial burden on you, which allows you to concentrate on your treatment and recover. This program has been a lifesaver for many of our clients. The retirement portion of the policy is invested with the insurance company and your gains are based on an index in the stock market like the S&P 500, Barclays Trailblazer Sector 5, Marc 5, NASDAQ, etc. If the index does well, you earn gains (subject to participation, cap and spread rates which are determined by the insurance company and the product chosen) and if the market loses your account balance stays the same for that crediting period. This is a great alternative to 401K plans and IRAs that have high fees, market volatility, tax liability and limited access to the money before retirement age. Now is the time to have your existing policy reviewed or get a quote for a new policy. Over 90% of existing life insurance policies do not have Living Benefits. Living Benefits are included on our term and permanent policies for free. Let’s UPGRADE your policy to a new version that protects you while you are alive! Contact me for a FREE planning session at 925-446-5963 or email wendylouturner@gmail.com. DLM 26

DLM | Winter 2024

JOIN THE RISE GROUP REAL ESTATE TEAM!! UNLOCK YOUR POTENTIAL IN CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Are you a driven real estate agent in Contra Costa County, or are you newly licensed and aspiring to become a real estate professional? Rise Group Real Estate in Walnut Creek has the perfect platform for you!

Ready to "Rise" to the top of your game,

Meet Our Team

Joel Roberts

Chris Strange

Ryan Tom

Lilah Corral

Blaine Johnson

Why choose Rise Group Real Estate? • Incredible Mentorship-Our experienced team of industry experts is committed to helping you achieve greatness, whether you're a seasoned agent or just starting out. With personalized mentorship, you'll gain the knowledge and skills to excel in the competitive real estate market. • Lead Opportunities-Access an abundance of high-quality leads that will fuel your success, even if you're a newly licensed or aspiring agent. Our lead generation systems are designed to keep your pipeline full and your business thriving. • Best-in-Industry Technology-Stay ahead of the curve with cutting-edge technology tools and resources, perfect for both experienced and new agents. We provide you with the latest innovations to streamline your workflow and enhance your client experience.

whether you're an experienced agent or new to the industry? Join the Rise Group Real Estate team and take your career to new heights!

Contact us today: (925)558-8998 info@risegroup.com www.risegrouphomes.com 590 Ygnacio Valley Rd Ste 102 Walnut Creek, Ca Group Real Estate DRE 01931011

Legal Disclaimer: Rise Group Real Estate is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to diversity in this workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

Winter 2024 | DLM 27

DELTA arts

Rose Mary Tumbaga overlooks some of the glass creations displayed (left) and showing off a fantastic leather bag (right) at the Pittsburg's Old Town Art Centre.

Community Pride filled with the Arts By Chuck Dybdal

he arts have long been encouraged and supported by the city of Pittsburg through the nonprofit Pittsburg Arts & Community Foundation which is celebrating a new home at 485 Railroad Avenue in what is being called the Old Town Art Centre. The building, originally a home for Woulf & Ury Jewelers and later the Pittsburg Chamber of Commerce, provides both a workspace and display area for local artists under the leadership of Rose Mary Tumbaga, the city's Director of Arts, Literacy & Education. I think this building was built for what it is now, a said Tumbaga, who says some previous PACF homes such as the Vidrio Building were used to attract new businesses to Pittsburg. The showroom focuses on East County artists with a variety of items ranging from paintings to original jewelry to ceramics, blown glass, photographs and leather goods. All items are for sale on a consignment basis. “Having a variety of items helps get people to come in,” said Tumbaga. Jewelry draws people in our direction. The Old Town Art Centre hosted a show for the internationally renowned artist Dr. Ronald McDowell, a Pittsburg native, earlier this year followed by a show featuring the works of Pittsburg resident Francis Palermo, who created posters for Pittsburg's Seafood Festival for more than 30 years and whose murals grace the side of the Pittsburg Historical Society Museum and Heritage Park on 4th Street. Palermo was one of seven American artists selected to show his works in the 14th International Poster Salon. Palermo conducts classes for stained glass as well as a variety of art classes for adults. A variety of classes are also offered for youth, including one in Anime, hand drawn computer-generated animation. He likes the fact that the Old Town Art Centre is so visible and has 28

DLM | Winter 2024

plenty of parking nearby. He also appreciates the gallery offers artists the opportunity to display and sell their art. Why should the arts be the last thing to cash in in our economy? he questions. Art is an individual expression, but Palermo says as a teacher he must put it in language other people understand as he tries to cultivate and encourage students to go where their inspiration leads them while offering information about technique. He encourages students not simply to paint in class but also to set up a place in their homes where they can create. I tell (students), the person who benefits the most from this is me, said Palermo, who has been involved with PACF adult education projects for 15 years. Flo Baldie, one of Palermo's students, first took some art lessons at the Senior Center but is now taking her second class with Palermo. She looks forward to her Tuesday morning class. I love it, she says. It is lots of fun. Joel Summerhill, who was a park architect for Pittsburg, took his first class with Palermo over 30 years ago at Los Medanos College. He has been a regular at classes offered by PACF and loves coming to the Old Town Art Centre. This is the best place we have had with a gallery and classrooms, he says. It is centrally located, a particularly good spot. Gloria Cannon, a long-time friend of Palermo and his wife and fellow artist Mary Lieser, says, I always admired their work. I wanted to try my hand at it. She is a regular now and appreciates the meditative qualities that art has brought to her life. DLM

DELTA arts

Adult Classes

Pelermo provides hands on for art student Joel Summerhill during a class at the Pittsburg Old Town Art Center

• Mondays: 6:30-9 p.m. Stained Glass Creations (Instructor: Francis Palermo) $40 per month; drop-ins $15/session • Tuesdays: 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m.: Professional and Advanced Artist Forum (Instructor: Francis Palermo) $40/month; drop-ins $25/session • Tuesdays: 1-3 p.m.: Drawing and Painting “YOU CAN DO THIS (Instructor: Francis Palermo) $40/month; drop-ins: $15/session. • Wednesdays: 10 a.m-12 p.m.: Adult Drawing and Painting Open Studio (Instructor: Karen Nelson Kelly) $50/month; drop-ins: $15/ session. • Saturdays: 10 a.m.-1 p.m.: Painting Outdoors (Instructor: Dan Kennedy), $20/week.

Literacy, Visual Arts, Performing Arts, Cultural Events, Community Pride

Writing Contest

Frances Pelermo and wife/Mary Liesen stand in front of Pelermo's mixed media painting called "the sum of your lite is the sum of the load you've lifted". It is displayed at Pittsburg Old Towne Art Center as part of an exhibit of his works.

Old Towne Art Center 485 Railroad Ave., Pittsburg Information: (925) 252-6930 Open: 1-5 p.m., Sunday-Friday

Open to all ages (no professional writers)

Any topic 600 words or less email over to glenda.deltalivingmag@gmail.com for more information. Winners will be published in the spring issue of Delta Living Magazine.

$10 entry fee. Deadline is February 28th, 2024, First Place is printed story & $100 gift card (one of our clients) Second place is printed story in summer edition & $50 gift card

(from one of our clients)

DLM | Winter 2024

DELTA lifestyles

Homeless But Not Hopeless By Jo Bruno “They’re the problem with our city.” “They’re lazy and need to get a job.” That was said directly to me from Antioch residents when they talked about the unhoused population. “I don’t want to see them anymore.” “They’re all drug addicts anyways.” Yeah, that was said, too. And, the most annoying thing? I was homeless when they said it. They didn’t know I was homeless until I told them because “you’re too pretty to be homeless.” Like, what?! Even though they saw me as smart, educated, well dressed and working two jobs while running a business but also homeless, I was lazy and a drug addict. It hurt. I worked, lived, and slept in my car for a year and a half. I was one of the lucky ones because I had a car, even though I didn’t feel lucky at all. I was a statistic of the many women fleeing domestic violence. Yes, my homelessness was a choice. I wouldn’t go back to an environment where I was unsafe. Sure, my homelessness was unsafe, too, but at least I wasn’t hurting myself or others. I found myself in a situation I couldn’t do anything about and started my homeless adventure along the river’s edge. Then COVID hit. It was horrible, y’all. What was supposed to only be a couple of months turned into several. But that’s not why I’m writing. There’s a culture of Antioch that many refuse to acknowledge, so that’s who I’m representing. I’ve seen the dark side of the Antioch, and we deserve housing. We deserve respect. We deserve love, compassion and care. Those who are unhoused are not the problem, but rather the solution. I’m here to show folks the importance of Trauma Informed Care. We cannot solve the problem of homelessness until and unless we recognize the trauma. So, here I am, expressing it to you now.

It's a bitter-sweet #CupOfJoBruno. It’s raw, real and rewarding. I hold the vice chair and consumer seats on Contra Costa Council for Homelessness. In my work, I have represented the city of Antioch for over a decade. I represent the underdogs. Those in the crisis. I represent the drug addict, the one with mental health issues, and the one who fled domestic violence. In my work, as a Peer Support Specialist, I represent those who have seen trauma. The resilient. The troubled. The forgotten. The homeless crisis is a crisis because people are in crisis. Homelessness is the outcome of a crisis. It’s an additional crisis that started after a crisis. Loss of job. Fires. Abusive relationships. Rising prices of basic needs. My point is that folks who are homeless have seen trauma prior to being homeless. Wellness and recovery aren’t just key terms, but they are a way of life for many of us. After recovering from anything, one needs rest. While in crisis, one needs support. When situations in life cause stress, we need to learn skills that help us, not harm us. In closing, I’ll leave you with a story of my homelessness so you can think about the level of shame or embarrassment someone may experience through crisis. I’m a woman with a healthy reproductive system and I have a menstrual cycle every month; like clockwork, even in crisis. For the 18 months I was in my car I had no access to a restroom or shower. Waking up in the middle of the night, I didn’t have access to clean laundry either. Just something to think about. Have a great life and please show some respect to the unhoused population. Thanks. DLM

You can reach Delta Peers via email: deltapeers@gmail.com. Phone: 925-917-3932. 30

DLM | Winter 2024

Winter 2024 | DLM 31

DELTA history

History of Scout Hall (Courtesy Of Bethel Island Scout Hall) Edited by Glenda Kugler

his is a history of how Scout Hall was formed and a tribute to a few of the great many people who helped. No such history can be short: this was a major project. The year was 1953. Flo Klein’s son-in-law, Danny Faschner, had organized a Boy Scout Troop. The Chamber of Commerce sponsored it, and Flo’s husband, Connie, was Institutional Representative. Since there was no building available, the troop was meeting at Klein’s ranch. One afternoon, while taking some of the children home from Bible class, Flo saw Ray Walker building a double garage. She stopped and asked him how much the materials cost. He told her about $500.00. She felt sure that enough labor could be donated to complete such a building. Thus, an idea was born. PROPERTY It had to be centrally located so that the children could walk to it. Leroy Thomas was a friend of the Kleins, and he had a large ranch centrally located. She decided to ask him if he would donate one lot. After she explained what was needed and what was planned, he answered, “Where do you want it and how much do you need?” Such quick co-operation and generosity left her breathless. He offered her some of the most valuable property on the Island, that is located on Bethel Island Road just beyond Judy’s Hardware store. They then discussed the possible danger of having children so near a busy street. Flo then suggested on lot across from the Fire Station on Ranch Lane. Mr. Thomas then offered to donate three lots as he felt more than one lot would be needed. He then asked in whose name the deeds should be prepared. She was not ready to answer that question but agreed to let him know after 32

DLM | Winter 2024

making some inquiries. Things were moving fast. With such a start, this plan had to succeed!! DEED What to do with the property. It was first offered to the Boy Scouts of America. They declined since they were not allowed to hold such property. They advised Flo to pick three responsible people dedicated to the welfare of children, and to ask these three people to hold the deed. She knew three such people, Ann Sawyer, Ede Anderson, and herself, but thought that if they held the deed, who would believe their motives and who would, therefore, construct the building. It was decided that this plan was not satisfactory. On October 28, 1965, Flo Klein, the third President of the Bethel Island Women’s Club, was asked to give a brief history of Scout Hall. This, then, is an adaptation of her speech. (ed. n.t.) Since the Chamber of Commerce sponsored the Boy Scouts, they were asked to accept the deed. They did not want to take the responsibility for the building and the insurance, but they agreed to help if the Womens’s Club would assist and together form an outside corporation. The Women’s Club generously offered their support if they could include the Girl Scouts and the Teen-age Club which they were sponsoring. This action has now made the project a Children’s Recreation Hall and the first idea of a double garage obsolete. PLANS Ede Anderson, the first President of the Women’s Club, offered the services of her husband, Wes, to draw the plans for the building.

DELTA history Wes was willing and drew a beautiful set of plans. When he showed them to the Women’s Club, the size of the building looked impossible for them to handle.Wes’ remark was, “Don’t start out too small, you will have nothing to grow into.” The plans were accepted. INCORPORATION It became necessary to incorporate so that Mr.Thomas’ generous gift of the three lots could be accepted. Ann Sawyer, Ede Anderson, and Flo Klein wrote the By-Laws. Three directors were to come from the Women’s Club and three directors from the Chamber of Commerce. These six would choose a seventh director who was to be a public-minded citizen interested in the welfare of children. Provision was made for Honorary Memberships in the event such memberships were granted. (In 1957, the Scout Hall Board gave Flo Klein the honor of being the first lifetime Honorary Member.) Mary Veale, Ann Sawyer, and Flo Klein were appointed directors by the Women’s Club. Wes Anderson, Paul Williams, and Jon Cunha were appointed directors by the Chamber of Commerce. These six directors asked Jim Kockritz to the seventh member, and Jim accepted. Mort Veale drew up the Articles of Incorporation at his expense. Scout Hall was in business. FUNDS Money was desperately needed, so the Women’s Club decided to hold a raffle. Sid Hilbun donated the prize and over $700.00 was raised. CONSTRUCTION The foundation came first. The Universal Form and Clamp Company offered free use of their steel forms since they were moving them from Pittsburg to San Leandro. This had to be done on a rushed basis, so Connie Klein and Milton Strickland borrowed one of Bob Dal Porto’s big trucks and picked up the forms in Pittsburg. Blair Spires and his boys came and set them up so that Joe Cesa could pour the cement on Saturday. As soon as the cement was set, the forms were removed and rushed by truck to San Leandro by Connie and Milt. It was a quick trick, but they did it, thereby saving a great deal of money and a lot of hard labor. FILL Next came the sand fill. Mr. Robbins, Bill Crosman and Leonard Burrows hauled sand at no cost. About this time, the good Lord looked down on the club and sent them Mr. Scout Hall, Jim Kockritz. Jim had a hammer in his hand and nails in his pockets during the entire time of construction and given enough time, it is said he would have completed the building alone. When others were tired and taking a rest, Jim would still be there nailing up siding, putting up plaster board, painting, etc., etc., etc. CARPENTERS Capenters were then needed so Connie Klein contacted a friend, Blair Spires, business agent for the Carpenter's Union. Blair asked for volunteers and a group of his members spent their weekends helping. The Women's Club furnished hot lunches. PLUMBING The question was, “Who do we know?” Judy Hribernick, of course. Judy contacted a friend in San Francisco who came to assist

him, and the plumbing was completed. In a building of this size, this was a tremendous job, and an excellent job was done. Twelve years later, everything was still O.K. FUNDS The job was continuing slowly and always in need of funds. From 1953 to 1956, the Chamber of Commerce, with such men as Wes Anderson, Connie Klein, Tom Sawyer, Bob Albertson, and Ray Walker, was organizing fish derbies and other projects. A total of $2, 625.12 was raised and donated to this project. Tom Sawyer was particularly interested and a wonderful fund raiser. He would give each interested new person who came to the Island a tour of Scout Hall and ask for their assistance. Many donations were received. BEAMS Otto Nyhus brought his ditch digging equipment to help raise the beams for the main hall. ELECTRIC Thomas Ryan, business agent for the Electrician’s Union, was contacted, and he asked for volunteers. The first to volunteer were Clint Daley and Mr. Stark. Others came that first weekend and then Clint Daley finished the job and has helped ever since whenever needed. ROOF Johns-Manville Company donated the shingles. Ann Sawyer and Flo Klein picked them up in Pittsburg using Connie Klein’s pick-up truck. No men were available to go with them during the day and it was imperative that they be secured that day. Needless to say, they got them, and their men were on hand to take over when they returned. Fran Koser of Vita Peat sent a lift tractor to help put the bundles on the roof. WATER Things were progressing, but water was needed. Tony Canada Winter 2024 | DLM 33

DELTA history from the Pump Center and his men gave their time and dug a well, competing it, pump, tank, and all. DISPOSAL Mike Brady gave his time and put in a Septic tank and a drain field. FIREPLACE Karl Overaa constructed the fireplace at exceedingly small cost. PLASTERBOARD Through the efforts of Jim Kockritz and Thad Orhms, the plasterboard was donated by the Kaiser Gypsum Company. It was odd sizes and had to be cut, but Jim worked it over and put most of it up alone. The Bethel Island Women’s Club really was the promoter and the money raiser for this building. Each President was elected to the Board of Directors of Scout Hall and had set a goal for herself such as: installation of the ceiling, the linoleum tile floors, kitchen equipment—stove, refrigerator and sinks, folding chairs, and the black top for the parking lot. Additional funds were donated for upkeep. Each year, the Women’s Club sponsored a chicken barbecue and Chef Joe Silva barbecued the chickens. These barbecues were a big money maker for Scout Hall. Joe Silva also donated two beautiful flags to Scout Hall in memory of his son. Each President elected to the Scout Hall Board served faithfully for a three-year term. These Presidents

What you have been missing?

GRAPHIC DESIGN WEB DESIGN PHOTOGRAPHY BRANDING MARKETING ADVERTISEMENTS

MUCH MORE!

and the Women’s Club were dedicated to the Scout Hall project. Over the years, the Women’s Club members have sponsored raffles, cakes sales, barbecues etc., all to support Scout Hall. The Womens’ Club pays rent for the use of this building the same as any other organization. and donates money as do the Lions, Lioness, Chamber of Commerce, American Legion, and the Seniors. Three people should be especially singled out, “Mr. Scout Hall,’ Jim Kockritz, and Irene and Paul Williams, these three people, over the years, just kept going long after others had taken a rest. In the words of Flo Klein: “I have tried to tell you of a few of the outstanding people who helped build Scout Hall. I cannot name them all as it would take too long. But, may I say, look at your neighbor, look at the people around you, they are all here tonight because they helped build Scout Hall. Had we notified all the people who helped, this hall would not have been large enough to hold them. We have received the co-operation of our friends and our friends' friends. Such assistance made this beautiful building possible. The Scout Hall Board of Directors and the Womens’s Club are immensely proud of this building and hope that you, who did so much to make it a reality, are just as proud as we are. While we feel the hall is completed, there is still much work to be done by people willing to donate their time and money. There is always upkeep and repairs, insurance, power bills, etc. It still must have help and money to keep it active… Since Scout Hall was my idea, I feel that any dreamer can have an idea, but it takes people, people like you to accomplish, build, and complete that dream.” DLM

graphic design services BORBACreative graphic design

& photography

CALL/TEXT NOW

209.481.5004 borbacreative@gmail.com www.behance.net/borbacreative

Winter 2024 | DLM 34

Come Celebrate!

SCOUT HALL IS TURNING

70!

Sunday, January 28 • 1–4pm 3090 Ranch Lane • Bethel Island Join us for appetizers and drinks Historical memorabillia Face painting, crafts for the kids (even a special guest - Minni Mouse) We are wishing SCOUT HALL a very happy birthday! In the spirit with which Scout Hall was built by the community and for the community, we are requesting donations of items for goody bags to support local businesses and agencies as well as monetary donation to cover the event. Winter 2024 | DLM 35

Ebb and Flow of Healing Ones Life By Tracy Silva What is life? To me, life is the most important concept of one’s existence due to its repeating nature. My daily life consists of always staying consciously aware of balance. Balance is about reframing, knowing consciously and accepting that duality exists in EVERYTHING. It is through duality and the understanding that contrast exists in our lives that should help us all appreciate balance which hangs out in the center position of polarities. (Polarity; is when an entity contains two distinct and opposite poles that can either attract or repel each other) Within anything we do in life, polarities exist. Therefore, it is important to remember that when we live our human experiences to remind ourselves that we have a choice at any given moment to be happy or sad. To be fearful or in love. We choose our experiences every single day of our existence! Since my journey began with the sacred medicines about 2 years ago, I try and stay mindful of being in a place of receiving, surrender, openness, and gratitude. Yet, humbly, I do notice during ceremony I get passionate and serious about my desire to heal my past trauma. Therefore, if I am not careful or consciously making myself aware to stay centered afterwards and with my post-integration, I can find myself in a rabbit hole navigating the layers of the onion I have peeled back. Next thing you know I am blind spotted by a shadow or two of mine. They infiltrate my thoughts, and I may even forget about my personal need to reframe and balance with nourishment. Humbly, I forget about my skill set of neutralizing and I go into 36

DLM | Winter 2024

GI Jane mode, as I begin to dig at its root cause in an analytical way. Unassuming yet, subconsciously, I admittedly forget to come up for air. I find myself in the middle of excavating the shadow, but not embracing it or being thankful for the influence it has over my life. While turning it into an ally moving forward. Throughout my experiences I need to be reminded that I am divine and the power to heal myself lies within me. I have the power to rid all my experiences into a positive formation. The importance to counter the work (or practice) with pleasure is to remember that although healing oneself is one of the most important gifts to yourself, family, and friends, it is equally as important to center the balance scales of “work and play” and nurture your body, mind, and soul post ceremony. “Back to the center,” in balance. Rewardingly, as we become more consciously aware of the polarities and appreciate them all without contrast, we would not have gratitude in life. If you need a “cleansing ritual or aligning your balance” contact me for a private consultation. Aho, Your sister in love, Tracy Shaman Spiritual Healer Silvatra@gmail.com

Winter 2024 | DLM 37

DELTA smilz

Remembering Cha Cha By Glenda Kugler

his page is dedicated to people that have fun around the Delta area, but this issue is special because on Christmas Day we lost one of our own. Our Foodie writer Cha Cha passed away with her loved ones by her side. If you had the chance to know Cha, you knew you had a friend for life. Shortly after meeting her at the Bethel Island Chamber years ago, we became inseparable at times with our passion for life, the magazine, and our fun-loving group of “gals” that we referred to as “the Golden Girls Gang.” The tales we would tell, the secrets we would keep and the everlasting bond of friendship that we had were something that only a person could dream of in a lifetime.We all had swim parties in my backyard pool, went to games, loved ghost hunting together, took turns at each other's house of fun times, it was never a dull moment. We would volunteer for events, or when our magazine hosted pet events Cha Cha and Ron Doolittle were right there to volunteer and to help wherever needed. Bingo nights on the island was filled with Ron serving drinks behind the bar and Cha Cha organizing the bingo, raffle items and winnings for all who attended. Cha Cha when she worked for the Bethel Island Chamber, she was committed to her “Island” of people, businesses, and friends. There was really no one that did not know who she was. If nobody knew the answer Cha Cha did. Her painted rocks and succulent designs were fun raffle prizes she gave away at times. But she was PROFOUNDLY serious about her rock collection from various places. When she retired from the Chamber a few years before Covid, she planned to travel and spend time with the “gang,” Ron and family but her health kept giving her obstacles. Cha was a fighter to the very end. Whether she and Ron were working on a Foodie review for the magazine, or volunteering for an event, or seeking to take that long overdue trip, she did it up until she could no longer. I will always remember a “classy well put together lady” that always had her nails done, her hair styled and a peace sign somewhere. Hippie at heart and a Hawaiin beauty, however you knew her she was one of a kind Celebration of Life is pending, and information will be available on our Facebook page or Bethel Island’s Facebook page. Aloha Cha Cha you will be missed. From your loving Delta Living Magazine staff. Next issue if you have any pictures of you or your friends having fun in and around the Delta email them to glenda.deltalivingmag@gmail.com 38

DLM | Winter 2024

CPTG Essential Oils NEW ZOOM CLASSES STARTING JANUARY 3, 2024 MONDAY / 6:30pm-7:30pm introduction to essential oils WEDNESDAY / 6:30pm-7:30pm Q & A time about the oils clients have purchased

Sharing therapeutic grade essential oils with the world. I like my products the way I like my people. Non-toxic!

Heidi Holm Wellness Advocate

COMING THIS

MARCH

HELP US

925-783-0606 HomeEssentials@aol.com my.doTERRA.com/HeidiLHolm

Paws, Claws, Purses & Shoes

a fundraiser to help support medical fund of Pet Partners United, Inc. If you are interested in being a vendor, please email lemuriacreations@yahoo.com for more information and an application. We will be sponsoring an online auction as well as the vendor event to help families of pets be able to keep their fur baby at home instead of surrendering them. Space is limited.

Until February 28, 2024, we will be taking in donations of New, or Good Condition purses and shoes any brand any size. Call 925-322-1936 for a pickup or drop off. Winter 2024 | DLM 39

DELTA BIZ CARDS

make their biz your biz!

925.322.1936 ads.deltalivingmag@gmail.com

Advertise with Us!

Winter 2024 | DLM 40

DELTA recipe

Candy Cane Kisses Cookies As the holidays draw near, Candy Cane Kisses begin to appear on supermarket shelves. They are delicious, but these cookies are even better!

INGREDIENTS • 1 ½ cups confectioners' sugar • 1 ¼ cups butter, room temperature • 1 tsp peppermint extract (optional) • 1 tsp vanilla extract • 1 large egg • 3 cup sall-purpose flour • 1 tsp baking powder • ½ cup Candy Cane Kisses, finely chopped • ½ cup granulated sugar in a bowl • Candy Cane Kisses to top cookies, unwrapped

Preheat oven to 350oF. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to combine confectioners' sugar, butter, extracts and egg. Beat at medium speed, scraping the bowl often until creamy, about 2-3 minutes. In a separate bowl whisk together flour, baking powder and salt. Add dry ingredients to wet mixture and beat, scraping the bowl often until well-blended, about 1-2 minutes. The mixture will be a bit crumbly. Stir in the chopped Kisses. Shape the dough into 3/4-inch to 1-inch balls and roll in granulated sugar. Place balls 1-inch apart on cookie sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until set. As soon as they come out of the oven, press a Candy Kiss in the center of each cookie. They'll crack a little around the edges, but use your fingers to hold them together as you press the Kisses into the cookies. Immediately place the sheet with cookies into the freezer or refrigerator to allow the Kisses to keep their shape. Once cooled, enjoy!

New leaf Healthcare is a online wellness & healthcare shop providing amazing therapy room services and fantastic natural products such as: + Flowers + Vapes Now offering many kinds of + Edibles Mushrooms and Supplements. + Drops Online-Discreet-Delivered to + Dabs your home-legal in all 50 states. + Pre-rolls + Glass Pipes + Bongs + Plus top-tier accessories for a healthy and natural lifestyle.

WE DELIVE R

For more information or questions please go to newleafhealth.us or email us at newleaf511@gmail.com Winter 2024 | DLM 41

DELTA health

DLM | Winter 2024

Winter 2024 | DLM 43

The NEW Way to Relieve Inflamation & Pain Cryo Facial Benefits Revives Firmness and Radiance Eleminates or Reduces Pigmentation Increases Skin Radiance

The Best 3 Minutes of Your Life Arthritis

Improve Skin Texture & Tone

Pain Management

Reduces Acne

Anti-Aging

Lightens Scars left from Acne

Skin Rejuvenation

Tightens Skin Pores

Cellulite Treatment

Reduces Inflammation

Muscle Recovery

Treats a Number of Skin Conditions Revives Fatigued Skin

Whole Body Cryotherapy Benefits CRYO SLIMMING Under Arm Slimming Stomach Fat Freezing Cellulite Treatment Glute Lift Neck & Jawline Slimming Tone & Tighten Skin

NEW CLIENTS

FREE Localized Cryo! FREE Cryo Slimming Consultation!

4532 Main Street, Oakley • (925) 489-3531

BOOK NOW: www.cryo4life.com