June 2012

Delivered to Over 40,000 Homes and Businesses

• JUNE 2012

Photos by Susanwoodphotography.com

• Live Music Listings ........................................page 6 • Zachary’s Pizza ...............................................page 8• Local Festivals ............................................. page 10• Grad Announcements ...........................page 12-13

• Senior Activities .............................................. page 15• Local Sports ................................................page 16-18• Letter to the Editor .......................................... page 26 • Teen Scene ........................................................ page 30

www.ourcommunityfocus.com June 2012

Pleasant Hill

20112011 BusinessPersonOf The Year

BusinessPersonOf The Year

$3�OFFValid at Pleasant Hill Grocery Outlet only. One coupon per person. Minimum purchase excludes dairy and alcohol. Not valid with any other o�er. No cash value. Duplicated coupons will not be accepted. Coupon must be surrendered at time of purchase. Expires 06/30/12.

Valid at Pleasant Hill Grocery Outlet only. One coupon per person. Minimum purchase excludes dairy and alcohol. Not valid with any other o�er. No cash value. Duplicated coupons will not be accepted. Coupon must be surrendered at time of purchase. Limit 1. Expires 06/30/12.

a $30 minimum purchase

Shop us first Get more.We carry many name brands you know and trust! Stop by and discover the bargains!

Jason & Kathy OlsonIndependent Owners/Operators

1671 Contra Costa Blvd. • Pleasant Hill, CA925-676-3660

8 am -9 pm Every Day!

FREE18-pack Medium

white eggswith a $30 minimum purchase

www.ourcommunityfocus.comJune 2012

Item# 1145Fabrica

$2.25216.00

Item# 1139Fabrica

$2.50123.00

Item# 1144Fabrica

$1.20237.00

Item# 1122Fabrica

$1.75639.60

Item# 1149

$1.251,802.04

Item# 1097Fabrica

$1.75120.72

Item# 1183

$0.80729.60

Item# 1195

$1.25585.00

Item# 1197Fabrica

$1.35315.00

Item# 1071Fabrica

$1.75168.36

Item# 1156Fabrica

$1.43138.00

Item# 1027

$1.42156.00

1970 Arnold Industrial Place, Suite B, Concord, CA 94520(925) 235-2200www.remnantflooring.com

Open from 8am to 4pm, Monday to Friday.Saturday 8am to 11am or by appointment.

*Installation services provided by our affiliate company S.W. Contractors, Inc. Lic #879074.

24

4

4

242

680

680

WALNUTCREEK

CONCORD

MARTINEZ

PLEASANTHILL

www.remnantflooring.comPhone 925-235-2200

****Most carpets 50% off standard retail pricing****

emnant Flooring services the greater San Francisco Bay area and specializes in the sale and installation* of highly discounted remnant carpets. We are not a typical retail store with display samples. We only warehouse Special Purchase

carpet rolls from the manufacturers. As a result, we can provide you savings which are typically well over 50% off standard retail prices.

Discontinued Carpets from the ManufacturersMill Over-Runs or Roll-EndsSpecial Buys or Manufacturer Imperfections

All Rolls in Stock

Please search our website by Price, Style, Size, Color or Fiber Type. All of our carpets are inventoried daily. If you don't find

the product you're looking for today, check back tomorrow for our new inventory!

Please visit

our website for

a complete list

of Inventory.

www.remnantflooring.comPhone 925-235-2200


JULIE SAYS

On March 25, I watched as three College Park High School seniors were recognized at a National Eagle Scout Court of Honor ceremony in Pleasant Hill. What was really moving about the presentation was the fact that these three – Matthew Farnitano, Alex Mc-Donald and Nick Kennen – had been friends through elementary, middle and high school, and were now sharing another special day, earning the rank of Eagle Scout. Their parents had prepared a slide show for the occasion with photos of the boys growing up to-gether. There were the three of them mugging for the camera with smiles at every age. And now, with June upon us, these three young men are facing yet another milestone as they graduate high school and go on to college. Having a graduating senior is a milestone for parents as well. As Matthew’s mother Lisa put it, “It is so hard to put 18 years of experience into words. I’m realizing I will miss so many things about Matthew, but then it is hard to be sad when he is about to go do all the things that I hoped, prayed and tried to pre-pare him for.” Lisa and Chris Farnitano met at Duke University, and that is where their son Matthew is headed as well. Lisa and Chris are excited that Matthew will be carry-ing on the family tradition at Duke. Matthew had a great senior year, and will take

with him memories of going to Los Angeles with the band, earning the rank of Eagle Scout and acting as the accompanying pianist for the school musical. But he is looking forward to college, too. In his words, “Senior year has been amazing! I have connected with my friends much more than before. I am excited to meet new people next year, but I really will miss my high school friends.”

Nick’s mother Elizabeth Kennen expressed the feelings of many parents when she said, “June 2012 seemed so far way for so long, but now it’s here. Didn’t they just start high school? We are happy and excited for Nicholas – looking toward the future with hope, and as always, lots of love and support.” From Nick’s perspective, “Graduation is definitely going to be bittersweet. On one hand, I am very excit-ed to be attending Saint Mary’s College in the fall, but on the other, I will miss the time I’ve had at College Park and I’ll miss my friends.” If you have seniors going off to college or anoth-er post-high school adventure, then you really know what Nick means by “bittersweet.” Sad to see them go, but happy because they are ready. Congratulations to the Kennens, Farnitanos, McDonalds and all of our graduating seniors, their families, teachers and mentors. Hats off to you and we wish the class of 2012 all the best! You can reach Julie at [email protected].

Bittersweet JuneBy Julie Ross

PUBLISHERSBecky Coburn, Jennifer Neys, Elena Hutslar

[email protected],000HomesandBusinessesinPleasantHill,Martinez,

Pacheco,LafayetteandWalnutCreek

ADVERTISING [email protected]

SPORTS EDITORChuck Nan

[email protected]

GRAPHIC DESIGNTrish Heaney, Debra Wilson

COPY EDITORAlison Clary

View the Focus online: www.ourcommunityfocus.com

CONTACT INFORMATION:Community Calendar:

[email protected]

Content & General Inquiries: [email protected]

6680 Alhambra Ave. Box #132Martinez, CA 94553

Phone: (925) 335 - NEWS (6397)

Independent & Locally Owned

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.

MISSION STATEMENT

L-R are Matthew Farnitano, Nicholas Kennen and Alex McDonald. (photo by Lisa Farnitano)


“How’s the market doing?” This question is posed so frequently, I practi-cally hear it in my sleep. Fortunately, it’s an easy and enjoyable one for me to an-swer. To put it simply: it’s crazy out there. In Contra Costa and Alameda Counties, pending sales are at their highest level in seven years, just slightly below record highs set in 2004 and 2005. Intrinsically linked, active inventory is at its lowest level in six years.Our Months Supply of Inventory index sits at an amazingly low 1.45, meaning that if no new homes came to market, we would have none left to sell in less than a month and a half. To put that in perspective: in mid-2008, our local in-dex peaked at over 7 months, while in early 2005 it briefly dipped below 0.5 months. These conditions have created an extremely strong seller’s market in which prices are rising briskly. But while sell-ers are all smiles nowadays, many buy-ers are starting to lose their composure.

Buyers are purchasing homes every bit as aggressively, if not more so, than they were in the height of the housing boom in 2005. There doesn’t appear to be any in-dication that this trend is going to re-verse course anytime soon. The well-documented supply of pre-foreclosure “shadow inventory” simply isn’t making its way to market. It may eventually, but there is no sign that it will happen in the near term, or at the large volume that was previously predicted. So, barring a miraculous boost in inventory, expect conditions to remain

tight and prices to continue rising. How much they will rise and for how long is hard to say. Appraisal contingencies will likely start to put a damper on the rate at which prices rise, especially if things really start to get out of hand. However, there is a healthy percentage of buyers out there with plenty of cash on tap to meet the gap between the appraised val-ue and contract price, so don’t expect it to have too great an impact. In the mean time, my advice to buy-ers is to keep a close eye on the market numbers and avoid taking any outland-ish actions. Bidding wars can severely affect one’s judgment, resulting in an ir-rational and unsound purchase decision. Sometimes, keeping your cool and walk-ing away empty handed is not such a bad route. Your home is out there – it just may take some extra time to find it. Nathan Hitchcock is the managing broker of Hitchcock Realty, he can be reached at [email protected] or (925) 825-1100.

Real Estate UpdateBy Nathan Hitchcock

HOUSING NEWS

ADVANCED HEARING AID CENTERWondering If You Have Hearing Loss?FREE Hearing Evaluation Consultation

ADVANCED HEARING AID CENTER

Yolanda Kananen ACA • Diana Foster

• All Types of Hearing Aids• Custom Noise & Swim Plugs• Batteries & Accessories

• Guaranteed Warranties• Financing Available• Trade In Discounts

www.hearingimproved.com Licensed by the State of CaliforniaCerti�ed by the American Academy of Audioprosthology

Certi�ed by the National Board of Certi�cation in Hearing Instruments

Hear More of What You WantBlending Care & Technology to Help the Hearing Impaired

• TESTING• SALES• REPAIRS

We Accept Most Insurance PlansOpen Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm

Over 20 Years Experience

Now Serving Concord Area 925-687-3211

2353 Concord Blvd, Concord

Pleasant Hill Area925-674-8621

425 Gregory Lane #202 , Pleasant Hill

Come to Our Family Practice Where You’re Treated Like Family

A+ RATING


In the MixBy Paul Cotruvo

While folk mu-sic throughout the 1950’s and 60’s was often a mainstay of American popular culture, it seemed to have faded away, un-til the last few years. With the release of the movie, “Oh Brother, Where Art Thou,” in 2000, the resurgence of folk music, also known as Americana, exploded back into the main stream with a vengeance. The local Martinez band, The Hope-ful Romantics (the ‘Tics), is keeping this traditional form of music alive. With the release of their second CD, Callin’ Your Name, the ‘Tics have put together thir-teen clever and tuneful songs. The album opens with a heart-wrenching ballad on the demise of a teenage drug addicted girl named “Angelina.” The haunting pedal steel guitar in the background only adds to this extremely sad song. Then there is the interstellar man “Jesus of Roswell,” a cheery tune about an alien encounter and taking us to the Promised Land. These two songs represent some of the ‘Tics most effective songwriting, from bleak to laugh-out-loud funny! My favorite song of the album is “Invite the Last Tear.” The sincerity of Hope Savage’s vocals on this song, about the end of a relationship, is raw and passionate. What a combination of great vocals, superb musicianship and wonderful songwrit-ing! I highly recommend this collection of songs of social consciousness, humor and heartbreak. Please check them out at www.reverbnation.com/thehopefulromantics, and go see them July 8, at Armando’s in

Martinez. And, here we go again; the beginning of another season of great community con-certs! Even in these tough times, our local cities have planned some lively events that will feature some of the best local musicians in the Bay Area. A wide variety of music ranges from rock, blues, jazz, folk and soul. The best part? Most of the events are free! Here are some of the highlights planned: Summer by the Lake in Pleasant Hill at City Hall. Beginning May 27, this series runs every other Sunday through Septem-ber 2. The last concert for this series will feature two bands, The Bell Brothers and Lumberyard – www.pleasanthillconcerts.com. Fridays on the Main in downtown Martinez. Beginning June 1 and running every Friday night through August 31, this features some of the best bands out of Martinez and coincides with a classic car cruise-in! Concerts begin at 6:00pm – www.mainstreetmartinez.org. Moraga Park Foundation Summer Concert Series begins June 21 and runs

June 1 - Cover2Cover, Downtown Pleasant Hill, 6:30-8-30pmJune 7 - Chris Cain Band, Armando’s, 707 Marina Vista, Martinez, 8pmJune 9 - Sin Silver, Back Forty Texas BBQ, 100 Coggins Drive, Pleasant Hill, 6pmJune 16 - Caroompas Room, Dallimonti’s, 1932 Oak Park Blvd, Pleasant Hill, 9pmJune 21 - Garageland Rodeo, The Round Up, 3553 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Lafayette, 9pmJune 23 - Dallimonti’s 30-Year Anniversary Bash featuring Cover2Cover & Friends (many of the musicians who have played there over the years,) 1932 Oak Park Blvd, P.H., 9pmJune 24 - Dan Hicks & Bayside Jazz, Armando’s, 707 Marina Vista, Martinez, 4pm

PAUL’S PICKS FOR JUNE:

through August 23. Concerts begin at 6:30pm. This series opens with Moonalice, a great San Francisco sound rock band – www.moragaparks.org. Music and Market Thursday’s Concert Series in Todos Santos Plaza in Concord. Beginning May 31 and running through September 13, this series will feature everything from rock to classical. Hats off to the City of Concord for saving this event, as it was in danger of being eliminated! Be sure to check out Frankie G (blues) on June 14 and Carlos Reyes on July 12. www.communityconcerts.com. Plaza Concerts in Downtown Pleas-ant Hill. The first Friday of each month, starting June 1 (opening with Cover2Cov-

er) running through September 7 (closing with The Fundamentals.) Concerts are at 6:30pm and are held in the plaza between Jack’s Restaurant and Sweet Tomatoes – www.shopdowntownpleasanthill.com. Other events to check out:Walnut Creek Art & Wine Festival – June 2 and 3, Heather Farms Park, Walnut Creek;King of the County BBQ – June 16 and 17, Waterfront Park Marina, Martinez; 3rd An-nual Blues & Brews – July 21, Pleasant Hill Park, Pleasant Hill. Get out there and support local music!Quote of the month:All music is folk music. I ain’t never heard a horse sing a song. Louis Armstrong

Cover2Cover’s Toni Bryant. Photo by Doug Trost

Pleasant Hill City HallGregory Ln & Cleaveland Rd

Free!

LIVE Musicon the lawn

by the lake pm!6:00-8:00

Jun 24...Stompy JonesJun 10... En Vivo

City ofPleasant Hill

Summer ConcertsAnd on Sep 2...a DOUBLEHEADER!3:30-8:00pm

Free!

Aug 19CO

NCER

T

SP

ON

SO

RS

Aug 5

Aug 19

Jul 22Casey Strand

Chiropractor Aug 19Sheila’sDaycare Sep 2

Sep 2

SER

IES

SP

ON

SO

RS

Organized by PH Civic Action Commission.

Visit www.pleasanthillconcerts.com for all concert information.

Jul 8...Petty Theft

Jul 22...Tamsen Donner

Aug 5...Fundamentals

Aug 19...Cover2Cover

Sep 2...The Bell Brothers

Sep 2...Lumberyard

Join us for all the concerts this summer!


Join us for the 6th Annual King of the County BBQ Challenge & Music Festival on June 16 & 17 at the Martinez Marina Waterfront Park from 11am-6pm daily. A perfect way for the entire family to spend Father’s Day! Enjoy lip-smacking BBQ from the professionals at Back Forty BBQ, Kinder’s Meats & Smokey D’s, as well as an amateur BBQ competition sponsored by Les Schwab Tires. BBQ competition spaces are filling fast; rules and application can be found on the event website at www.CountyBBQ.com. Live on the Xtreme Scaffolding stage; enjoy the music of a variety of California’s top bands: The RevTones, Brave Ulysses, The Smokin’ J’s, The Billy Martini Show, Whiskey Dawn, Alma Desnuda, Garageland Rodeo, Caroompas Room, and Big Cat Tolefree. There will be kids activities, rides & a petting zoo, as well as over 100 arts and craft vendors, microbreweries & wineries. FREE parking and admission. Presented by US Shell Oil Products and hosted by California Pacific Federal Credit Union. Be sure stop by the Home Depot booth for a chance to win the ultimate BBQ set-up! For full event details, amateur BBQ application and vendor display information please visit www.CountyBBQ.com or call the Martinez Chamber at 925.228.2345.

Fans of blues music and cold brews won’t want to miss this 3rd annual event! On Saturday, July 21, from noon to 6pm, Pleasant Hill Park will be the site of the Blues & Brews Festival, where tasty brews accompany a talented lineup of local blues artists that include Lydia Pense and Coldblood. Attendees have the opportunity to sample beers from over twenty breweries, en-joy food from local restaurants, browse goods for local craft vendors and listen to great music in a relaxing park setting. Tasting Tickets to Blues & Brews are $30 pre-sale or $40 at the door and include a commemorative mug and unlimited tasting from1pm to 5pm. Music can be enjoyed Noon to 6pm for FREE. Proceeds will support the Pleasant Hill Recreation and Park District’s Teen Center. For directions, a complete list of bands and breweries or to purchase tickets, visit www.bluesandbrewsfestival.com. Tickets may also be purchased at the Pleasant Hill Recreation and Park District office at 147 Gregory Lane in Pleasant Hill.

Annual Blues & Brews

King of the County BBQ


Architectural Review CommissionJune 7, 21City Hall, 100 Gregory LaneLarge Community Room, 5:00pmContact: 671-5209

City CouncilJune 4, 18City Hall, 100 Gregory LaneCouncil Chambers, 7:30pmContact: 671-5229

Civic Action CommissionJune 6City Hall, 100 Gregory LaneSmall Community Room, 6:30pmContact: 671-5229

Education CommissionJune 27City Hall, 100 Gregory LaneLarge Community Room, 7:00pmContact: 671-5229

Planning CommissionJune 12, 26City Hall, 100 Gregory LaneCouncil Chambers, 7:30pmContact: 671-5209

Zoning AdministratorJune 14, 28City Hall, 100 Gregory LanePublic Works ConferenceRoom, 5:00pmContact: 671-5209

City Calendar of Events

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

PLEASANT HILL CITY BUZZ

PHPD Information on SolicitorsBy Jaki Jones

♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

New Downtown TenantsBy Jaki Jones

The PHPD wants to let our com-munity know that there has been an increase in calls about solicitors walk-ing neighborhoods and selling items door-to-door. Please remember that solicitors must have a seller’s permit from the city. In addition, some people may pose as a door-to-door salesper-son in order to “case” a home for a bur-glary. Here are a few points to remem-ber when someone comes to your door step to solicit:1) If you do not feel comfortable an-swering the door, tell the person to go away and that you are not interested. Watch from a window to make sure they leave and report any suspicious activity.2) If you choose to answer the door, be sure to ask if they have a permit from Pleasant Hill.3) Never allow an unknown individual

to come inside your house!4) If you feel the person is act-ing suspicious in any man-ner, get a good description of the person and a direc-tion of travel and call Pleas-ant Hill Police as soon as possible at (925) 288-4600. Upon hearing about the increase in burglaries in the Gregory Gardens neighborhood--three since November--resident Julianne Hols-tad took action: “I went door to door handing out a flier on Mother’s Day, alerting my neighbors and was shocked to find out that 90% of them did not know that this was happening.” The proactive Holstad did some research and learned that, “Burglaries are hap-pening between the hours of 10am and 3pm. Access is often gained through the home’s side gate and the side door

Two new restaurants and a well-known children’s retailer are headed to down-town in the fall. Zachary’s Pizza, the 100-percent employee-owned company is tak-ing a serious look at the former locations of Red Brick Pizza and Royal Image Day Spa. On May 17, a Zachary’s architect gave a presenta-tion on proposed tenant improvements and exterior modifications to the city’s Architectural Review Com-mission. Modifications to the 3200 square foot space would include new signage, a new outdoor seating area and landscape modifications. Also suggested was placing the restaurant’s orientation towards the north, facing more of the Downtown area. Because Zacha-ry’s would be the “end of the line” with no other retail-er next to them, visibility is essential. The concept is for Zachary’s to form the anchor at the south end of Crescent Drive. Zachary’s would also like to create an outdoor seating area with table service in the walkway area next to Starlet. Tables with umbrellas, additional landscaping and planter boxes towards the parking lot were considered to provide shade, warmth and to de-emphasize the smaller parking area to the east. Zachary’s currently has three locations in Berkeley, Oakland and San Ramon and offers two styles of pizza: a Chicago-style stuffed pizza and a traditional thin crust piz-za. It also boasts a huge take-out business with a large volume of patrons going in and out. Issues about parking were not discussed at length but will no doubt be addressed in future meetings. For you sushi lovers, look for Nama Sushi, also coming to Downtown in the months ahead. They will occupy the space of the former Monsoon Masala restaurant. In addition, Carter’s retailer will begin construction in June in the space across from Hallmark. Carter’s sells apparel for babies and young children.

On May 21, a reception honoring Councilwoman Terri Williamson for her 27 years of service on the City Council was held after the council meeting in the City Hall lobby. Williamson was first elected to the council in 1985. William-son served as mayor in 1988-89, 1993-94 and 2005-06. She was recently ap-pointed by the City Council to serve out the remaining two years of the term of former Councilwoman Karen Mitchoff. Her retirement leaves a vacancy and a dilemma for the four councilmembers. The council will have 60 days to call a special election or appoint someone to fill the vacant seat until the term ends in December.

Williamson Retires

to the garage is kicked in. The bur-glars then enter the home

through the garage. In our case, they entered the side gate, lifted a screen to the middle bedroom, slid open the window and entered the

home.” To prevent intrud-ers, Holstad now leaves a radio

on during the day and she has placed

dowels in all the sliders and windows. She has also padlocked her gates and added motion lights. Before leaving on vacation this summer, sign up for the “Vacation House Watch Service” using the PHPD website, www.pleasanthillpd.com. Sim-ply complete the online form and a po-lice officer will drive by your property while you are on vacation.


MARTINEZ CITY BUZZ

City Calendar of Events

About twelve years ago, a group of downtown Main Street merchants, located in the block furthest away from the county offices, were concerned about their struggling businesses. It seemed that jurors, county employees and other visitors to Martinez were not venturing to their block. They might make it to Star-bucks at Main Street Plaza, but not beyond. With the help of one of the founders of Main Street, Dick Duncan, a plan was de-veloped to lure shoppers and diners beyond Main Street Plaza, all the way to the begin-ning of the commercial area of Main Street at Alhambra Avenue. Providing outdoor spaces for diners would bring people to the 500 block of Main Street and also give ex-

posure to other businesses that they passed along the way. And, thus, the “pockets” were born. The “pockets” changed the 500 block to a one-way street going west, with out-door dining spaces in front of restaurants in what used to be parking spaces and the east bound lane of Main Street. With the blessing of city staff and council, this group of energized business owners and citizens constructed the “pockets” with donated funds, bricks and lumber over a week-end. Since this time, the 500 block of Main Street has flourished and is probably one of the most popular areas of the downtown. Everyone loves to dine “al fresco” in our beautiful Martinez weather. Last year, the city hosted a series of workshops open to the public called “Mak-ing it Real; Making it Happen.” These work-shops, facilitated by Susan Moeller, includ-

Mayor’s Message Rob Schroder, Mayor of Martinez

ed a field trip to the city of Livermore. At that field trip, we were introduced to a con-cept of outdoor dining called “Flex-Space.” This is a type of outdoor dining when, in times of good weather, parking spaces on their main downtown street become tem-porary dining areas, protected by wrought iron fencing, with planter boxes, chairs, ta-bles, umbrellas and outdoor heaters. When I saw how easily the parking spaces could be transformed into safe and attractive out-door dining spaces, I was convinced that we could do the same throughout the down-town. Since then, I visited San Francisco to see their “parklettes.” These are public spaces that are also built into the parking spaces, but are more permanent than those in Livermore. The main difference is that “parklettes” are public spaces, open for any-one to enjoy and not dedicated for use by a particular business. For the last several months, city staff has been researching different types of “flex

space” concepts, and a subcommittee of the city council has held two public meetings to hammer out details that include costs, construction materials and use policies. In order to move on this issue sooner rather than later and take advantage of as much as the good weather as possible, I scheduled the outdoor dining issue to be considered by the entire city council on May 16. At that meeting, the council unanimously ap-proved the outdoor dining program and its policies. The program will be rolled out on Main Street starting at Court Street and extending all the way to Alhambra Avenue. The program will be available to restaurants in other parts of the downtown core when the Main Street project is completed. It is my belief that the extension of out-door dining throughout the downtown will increase the safety, ambiance, vibrancy and walkability of downtown Martinez. Come downtown this summer and see if you feel the same way.

INCREASE YOUR RETIREMENT INCOME.You have worked hard for your money. Now put your money to work for you. Increase monthly cash flow.

INVESTMENTS LLCPlanning Beyond Tomorrow

THIS IS NOT A JOB. It’s a fantastic opportunity.

SECURE YOUR FINANCIAL FUTURE!Learn how we can truly help you secure your financial future!

TO READ OUR REPORT, 4 MISTAKES ALL INVESTORS MAKE, VISIT WWW.RBINVESTORSITE.COM

City Council MeetingJune 6, 207:00pm-11:00pmContact: 925-372-3500

Design Review MeetingJune 13, 273:00pm-5:00pmContact: 925-372-3500

Park, Recreation, Marina &Cultural CommissionJune 19 7:00pm-11:00pmContact: 925-372-3500

Planning Commission MeetingJune 12, 267:00pm-11:00pmContact: 925-372-3500

Zoning Administrator MeetingJune 6, 203:00pm-5:00pmContact: 925-372-3500

All City Meetings at City Hall, 525 Henrietta Street, Unless Otherwise IndicatedFor Confirmation Visit: www.cityofmartinez.org

Joe and Sharon Brock, whose well-known “Christmas House,” burned down last January, receive a fundraiser check from Rene Redfern, Branch Manager, Wells Fargo-Martinez, Mary Peinado, Martinez Chamber CEO, Reba Bower, Martinez Chamber Membership Sales Director, Joyce Deaver, Martinez Chamber Administrative Assistant, and Denice & Kevin Wendt, Wendt Heat & Air. Wells Fargo matched fundraising contributions, and Chamber member Wendt Heat & Air is providing the Brock Family free installation and new equipment for their home at cost. Photo Credit: Richard Cash

Spring Wine StrollFamily Receives Donation

A relaxing afternoon was spent at the spring wine stroll in Downtown Martinez on May 5. The stroll be-gan at the Martinez Gallery on Court Street, where, for $20 ($15 in advance), wine tasters received a wine glass, charm, wine tasting passport and map of the participating businesses. The stroll continued along Main Street, with a few side trips along Ferry and Escobar Streets. Twenty-one businesses partici-pated, revealing the amiable charm of Downtown Martinez to visitors and locals alike.


Please verify schedule at www.martinezchamber.com • 925-228-2345

MARTINEZ CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Ribbon Cutting

Save These Dates

Ethics Day 2012Presented by Martinez Chamber of Commerce, and MUSD

Pleasant Hill YMCA Grand Remodel

CALENDAR SPONSORED BY

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

Pleasant Hill’s Irvin Deutscher Family YMCA celebrated Healthy Kids Day on April 28. Dozens of kids participated in special healthy kids classes, including Kid Olympics, Yoga for Kids, and Zum-batomic. The event started with a family fun walk for the kids and their parents led by Vice Mayor and ID YMCA Board Chair Michael Harris. The following week, The YMCA celebrated its remodel featuring their new mind-body studio and expanded fitness area. Come by to see the new fea-tures, 350 Civic Drive, Pleasant Hill.

Ambassador Meeting –Ifinterested,contactRebaat(925)[email protected].

6/5 – Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting4pm,BailHotlineBailBonds,729FerryStreet.

6/16 & 6/17 – 6th Annual King of the County BBQ Challenge & Music Festival11am-6pm.FamilyFun,LipSmackin’BBQ,AmateurBBQCompetition,Rockin’Music,Arts&CraftsBooths,Kid’sRides&Activities,Microbreweries&Wineries.MartinezWater-frontPark.FreeAdmissionandParking.CalltheChamberformoredetails.

6/18 – Chamber Office Closed

6/21 – Educational Series – #1 LinkedIn for Business (part 1 of 2)12pm-1pm,doorsopenat11:30.PresentedbyRobinFox,SocialMediaCoach.BestWesternPLUSJohnMuirInn,445MuirStationRd.Cham-berMembers$10,Non-Members$20.BaglunchIncluded.RSVPtotheChamberoremailReba@martinezchamber.com.Spaceislimited.

Save the Date! 7/6 to 7/8 – Carnival Butler AmusementRides,Games,Food&Fun.LocatedatHwy680&Hwy4(PachecoExitoffHwy4).Alldaywristbands:$20,ad-vancesaletickets(attheChamberoffice);$25attheCarnival.CalltheChamberformoreinformation!

CALENDAR SPONSORED BY

6/1 - Ambassador MeetingPleasantHillCityHall,8am-9am

6/1 – Ribbon Cutting Senior Helpers/C.A.R.E.S.Affiliate1170BurnettAve.SuiteJ,Concord.11:30am-1:30pm.

6/1 – Wine Walk/Plaza Concerts –Down-townPleasantHill.$20(includeswine,glassandpassport)PurchaseattheplazanexttoJacks.5:30pm-8pm

6/5 – Leadership Lunch –SweetTomatoes40CrescentDr.,PleasantHill11:45pm-1pm

6/20 –Chamber Mixer –ComputerSalesandServicew/FastSigns,1936LindaDr.,PleasantHill,5pm-7pm

6/21 – Board of Directors MeetingPHCityHall,7:45am

6/25– Green CommitteeBackFortyTexasBBQ,100CogginsDr.,PleasantHill,4pm-5pm

6/25 – Government Affairs CommitteeBackFortyTexasBBQ,100CogginsDr.,PleasantHill,4:30pm-6:00pm

On May 22, Ethics Day brought together high school students, commu-nity leaders and educators for an in-teractive exploration of various ethical challenges facing all of us today. Using an ethical decision-mak-ing framework, participants spent the morning discussing and making deci-sions in various scenarios that have ethical implications and consequences. The goal is to introduce students to ethics as a science that explains the role of values, assumptions and fact-finding for decision-making as it relates to de-termining conduct as “good” or “bad”. Through in-depth, facilitated discus-sion, participants attempt to answer questions such as, “Is it fair?” or “Will anyone be hurt by this decision?” The program was organized for students and adults to:

• Discover parallels between workplace and school issues• Discuss ethical issues arising from current events • Recognize the potential of long-term effects of certain decisions • Develop a greater understanding of individual actions and ensuing conse-quences • Learn from listening to the perspec-tives of others Ethics Day was made possible through donations from these gener-ous sponsors:The UPS Store Arnold Dr., MartinezH2 Solutions Heald CollegeConnolly & TaylorBill’s Chairs for AffairsAllied Waste ServicesStarbucks Coffee

Plaza Concerts and Wine Walk First Fridays of the Month starting June 1. Listen to Cover2Cover while walking downtown visiting shops and sipping wine. $20 ticket includes wine glass, passport and wine tastings at various stores in Downtown Pleasant Hill. Summer Concerts By The Lake, PH City Hall. Free live music two Sundays a month beginning on June 10- En Vivo and June 24- Stompy Jones. 6th Annual King of the County BBQ Challenge and Music Festival on June 16 & 17 at the Martinez Marina Waterfront Park 11am-6pm. Lip-smacking BBQ from Smokey D’s, Kinders and Back Forty. Live music, kids activities, petting zoo and 100 arts and craft vendors along with various microbreweries and wineries. Carnival by Martinez Chamber of Commerce July 6-8. Fri: 4-11pm, Sat: 11am-11pm & Sun: noon-10pm. Rides, games food and fun. Located at Hwy 680 & Hwy 4. Free Admis-sion. For advance sale tickets call the Chamber: 925-228-2345.Pleasant Hill 3rd Annual Blues & Brews July 21 noon-6pm at Pleasant Hill Park. Enjoy tasty brews from over twenty breweries, live music by Lydia Pense, Coldblood, arts, crafts and food from local restaurants. Tasting tickets are $30 pre-sale, or $40 at the door; in-cludes mug and unlimited tasting from 1pm-5pm. Pleasant Hill Chamber’s Art Jazz and Wine Festival Oct. 6 and 7. Live music, wine, beer, arts and crafts, kids activities and much more!

Do you want to be part of the 4th of July Events? To participate in the parade, contribute towards the

firework campaign or for general 4th of July infor-mation visit: www.mainstreetmartinez.org for Mar-

tinez and www.phjuly4.com for Pleasant Hill.

Fourth of July 2012


Downtown Martinez

ghost walk

Main Street Martinez, Inc.

Spirits

Downtown Martinez

4thof

July

Hometown

www.MainStreetMartinez.orgParade“It’s a Grand

Old Flag”

Shell Oil Products USMartinez Refinery

For more information andparade applications visit

Presents

Space is limited, advanced ticket purchase recommended. No children under 12 years allowed. Teens 12-17 years must be accompanied by an adult. Bring a flashlight, wear comfortable shoes.

Take the 1-1/2 hour guided walking tour through Historic Downtown Martinez to discover the hidden past, little known facts and tales of days-gone-by.

Tours conducted by Central ValleyParanormal www.cvparanormal.com

4th & 5th Fridays each month beginning June 22 at 8:00pm. $25 per person. Tour starts at Main Street Martinez, 649 Main St. Suite 106. For more information visitwww.MainStreetMartinez.org or call(925) 228-3577

Fridays on the Main

Every Friday June-Aug • 6pm to 8pmDowntown Martinez

Cars, Trucks, Bikes and Live Music! FREE!Restaurants Are Open for Dinner!

Music schedule subject to change. No Entry FeeAll vehicle types welcome

MainStreetMartinez.org 925.228.3577

Visit them at www. .com

or email Donand

PleasantHillRealEstate

[email protected] #1 since 1994

Don & Norma Flaskerud

Erik Flaskerud

Re/Max CC Connection

925-676-5859

Call Pleasant Hill’s for ALL your Real Estate needsRealtor#1

Over *reasons465Over *reasons465to choose


as Realtor!YOUR

*The number of homes

sold in PLEASANT HILL

by Don, Norma, & Erik!!


Erik Flaskerud

Re/Max CC Connection

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

7 Holmsund Ct, PH – $579,000

7 Limewood Place, PH – $699,000

107 McKissick Street, PH – $459,900

1150 Maywood Lane, Mtz – $169,000

Call now to have your home featured here!

Don and Norma’s listings...

Mail a donation to:

PO Box 23272Pleasant Hill, CA 94523

4th of July Commission

Pleasant Hill Citizens of the Year


Andrew Crosno, AHS It’s been a privi-

lege to watch you grow into the man

you are today. We couldn’t be more

proud of your hard work, dedica-

tion, and decision to join the USMC.

OORAH! Love, Mom, Dad, Kevin

A dream daughter, Demi Tzanis, Col-lege Park Dearest Demi, Words cannot

express the pride we feel in having

been blessed with you as a daughter.

Wishing that all your dreams come

true in the adventure of your life! Love

Mama & Tony

Jessica Gardner, College Park Jes-

sica will pursue her dream of a career

in medicine at the University of Ari-

zona, majoring in neuroscience. She

volunteers at John Muir Hospital and

attended a ten-day series of medical

seminars in Boston last summer for

aspiring physicians, an experience she

wrote about in the Focus last October.

Good luck, Jessica!

James Spellman-Hess, College Park Congratulations James! We are

looking forward to watching you play

soccer for SFSU next year. Go Gators!

We are so proud of you and love you

very much! ~Your Family

Janette Danielson, College Park You’ve worked incredibly hard for 4

years, endeared yourself to multitudes

of friends and made your whole family

very proud of your accomplishments.

We know you’ll have great success at

LMU. Love, Mom, Dad and Christina

Dominic Bilotti, College Park we are

so very proud of your accomplish-

ments! Beyond 2012 awaits you. “If you

can imagine it, you can achieve it. If

you can dream it, you can become it.”

We love you- Mom, Dad and Patrick

Jimmy Torres, College Park Mijo, you

have made us very proud, and we

thank you for being who you are. We

want to wish you luck at Chico State,

and wish you nothing but the best

always and forever. You have been

such a wonderful son, and brother. We

love you very much and will miss you!!!

Love, Dad and Mom

Kameron DuQuette, AHS Kameron

graduates with honors while lettering

in football and lacrosse. This fall, he will

attend the University of Oregon be-

cause he had a vision; worked hard,

had faith and believed in himself. “It is

not important WHAT you believe, only

THAT you believe.”

Sam Randall, Alhambra High Con-

gratulations! So proud of you and all

you’ve accomplished these past 4

years. Good luck at Cal Poly. The best

is yet to come. With much love, Mom,

Dad, Ellen & Jake.

Lucas Velzy, College Park Lucas is

attending Los Medanos to pursue his

goal of becoming a firefighter follow-

ing in his late Grandpa’s footsteps. He

is enrolled in the Emergency Medi-

cal Technician and Fire Technology

Courses. Congratulations Luke! Love,

Mom & Dad.

Samantha St.Germain, College Park We are so proud of you! You are an

extraordinary young woman filled

with grace, determination and kind-

ness. We are excited to watch your

incredible journey unfold at UCLA and

beyond! We love you, Mom and Dad

Tyler Shaw, Bentley SchoolCongratulations Tyler! We wish you

success as you embark on your amaz-

ing journey at Hilbert College in NY, as

you study Criminology and continue

your passion of playing baseball. We

are so proud of you! Love, Mom and

Dad

Grad Announcements


Daily Twins Will Play for Cal Maritime

HATS OFF TO THE GRADS!Show them how

proud you are by putting your grad in

the Community Focus! Announcements: $15 for up to 35 words, $30 with a photo.

Email photo and text to [email protected]. Deadline: 2nd Friday of each month. Photo must

be in jpeg format.

www.ourcommunityfocus.comJune 2011 Page 15

Grad Announcements

Caitlin A. Diggs, College ParkCongratulations Caitlin! We are proud

of YOU, your accomplishments and

hard work. Off to Davis to make your

dreams a reality! There couldn’t be a

prouder family. Love You, Dad, Mom,

Jack and Molly

Dane Hutslar, College Park 2011We are beyond proud of the young

man you have become and look

forward to watching your bright future

unfold. The world is waiting for YOU!

With much love, Mom, Dad, Brandon,

Cole and Devin.

We’re proud of you, Erik Naccara! College Park, 2011You’ve worked so hard and now

you’re off for a great adventure at the

Prep school for the US Coast Guard

Academy. Oh, the places you’ll see!

Next stop, New London!! Love, Mom,

Dad and Allie

Congratulations to Forest McMillin! College Park 2011 As you gradu-

ate from CPHS and head off to UCSB,

I want to tell you how proud of you I

am. Your accomplishments continu-

ally amaze me. You have my love and

support on any journey you take. May

your dreams come true! Love, Mom.

Jason Eitelgeorge, Alhambra High 2011 “All your dreams can come

true... if you have the courage to pur-

sue them.” - Walt Disney. Congratula-

tions! We are very proud of you.

Love, Dad, Mom, Eric and Jeffrey

Kelsey Ertola, Alhambra High SchoolWe are so proud of you and excited

for you as you go forth on your journey

to Sonoma State and beyond. Con-

gratulations!

We love you, Mom, Dad, Anthony and

Nick

Lauren Cefali, College ParkCongratulations on your graduation

and being accepted to the Coast

Guard Academy. You are an amazing

person; we are so proud of you and

love you so much! Love Mom, Dad,

and WIll.

Madeline Jane Weiss, Bentley School Congratulations, Maddie! We

could not be more proud of you and

we share your excitement about your

next adventure at Southern Oregon.

All our love, Mom, Gibby, Jack and

Benjamin

Maggie Schoemann, College ParkWe are so proud of you as you gradu-

ate from high school. Your energy,

enthusiasm, and passion will carry you

a long way in life. Follow your dreams

and never give up. Love, Mom and

Dad.

Molly Gaoiran We are proud of the

young lady you have become! Can’t

wait to see you playing Water Polo at

DVC! Your beauty comes from your

heart and we love you!

Mom & Dad

Steven St. Germain proudly gradu-

ates with honors from College Park on

June 6th. Active in the classroom, on

athletic teams and in our community,

Steven will continue his pursuits at

UCLA this fall. Congratulations!

Katherine Duran Congratulations on

your graduation from College Park.

The success you’ve achieved is a

great foundation for your future. We

are very proud of you and confident

that you will do great at Saint Mary’s.

Love, Mom, Dad, Elizabeth and

Grandma Diane

Ethan Marsh, College ParkCongratulations on your many ac-

complishments over the years. We are

so happy and very proud of you. We

wish you nothing but the best always.

Love, Mom, Dad and Kendall

If you would like to announce your graduate please contact us for more [email protected]

Grad Announcements

California Maritime Academy men’s basketball head coach Bryan Rooney has announced the signing of John and Michael Daily from College Park High School for the 2012-2013 season. John and Michael enjoyed outstand-ing senior seasons as they led the Falcons to a 20-11 season and a league champion-ship under head coach Craig Battle. Mi-chael was named Co-Most Valuable Play-er as he led the team with 72 three point-ers. John was a key part of the Falcons’ defensive attack as he averaged nearly 2 steals per game in both his junior and se-nior seasons. “One of the priorities in this year’s recruiting class was recruiting winners. John and Michael absolutely fit that cri-teria. College Park had an outstanding season and it was due in large part to the leadership shown by John and Michael. I am excited to see their development over the course of their four-year careers be-cause they possess the ability and drive to reach their potential in the classroom and on the basketball floor,” commented Rooney.

Michael Daily commented on his commitment, “The two reasons I chose to come to Cal Maritime are the great edu-cation that I could benefit from here and the wonderful basketball program. Coach Rooney seems to be a really passionate coach who motivates his players to work hard. He creates the type of atmosphere I would like to be in as a player.” John was equally excited as he stated, “The reason I chose Cal Maritime is be-cause it is a great school and it will help get me where I want to be in my profes-sion. Also, the school allows me the op-portunity to see other parts of the world through its international connection and focus.” John and Michael join Cal Maritime as the program comes off the best sea-son in school history. The Keelhaulers set the school record for wins, won the Cal Pac Conference with an undefeated re-cord, and advanced to the NAIA National Tournament for the first time in school history. The 2012-2013 season begins as the Keelhaulers host Cal Maritime Invita-tional starting November 2nd.

Photo by TodGomes.com

Evan Dowey, College Park We so very

proud of the wonderful young man

you have become and your many

accomplishments. Enjoy your next

adventure at Cal Poly. Love, Mom, Dad

and Emily.

Will Dundon, De la Salle Congratu-

lations, Will! We are so proud of the

young man you have become. You

have been gifted with brains, a sharp

wit and strong character. May you

continue to thrive in Cal Poly SLO as

you did at De La Salle. Love, Mom,

Dad & Zane

Loren Clark, a College Park graduate and Martinez resident will achieve the rank of Eagle on June 23rd. He earned 23 merit badges and held several positions of leader-ship in his troop. His community service project was to design, construct, and supervise the in-stallation of three walk-in compost bins for the Church of the Resurrection, sponsor of Troop 405. Loren plans to attend DVC and transfer to UC Berkeley with a major in Environmental Engineering. He lettered in both Swimming and Soccer where he was awarded Most Im-proved Player on his varsity squad. He enjoyed four years of ceramics with his Art teacher, Lesley Jensen, worked as a docent at Lindsay Wildlife Museum and provided support serv-ices to Emminger Corporation in Martinez He teaches gymnastics and trains competitive gymnasts at Liberty Gymnastic Training Center in Concord. He is planning a three-week high Sierra trek along the John Muir Trail between Yosemite and Mt. Whitney in July with Crew 405, led by his father/Crew Adviser Bill Clark.

Eagle Scout Loren Clark


Torta EspañolaINGREDIENTS3/4 cup olive oil 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced 2 onions, finely diced 6 eggs, lightly beaten in a large bowl Salt and freshly ground black pepperDIRECTIONSHeat the oil in a large skillet; cook the onions until soft. Add potatoes and cook over medium-heat until almost done with no color, about ten min-utes. Break the potatoes up a bit with a spatula and then transfer the pota-toes and onions to the bowl with the

eggs. Stir the potatoes around to cover well with the egg, and season with salt and pepper. Remove most of the oil from the skillet, leaving about one tablespoon. Add the egg mixture; re-duce the heat to low and cook omelet slowly until golden and firm enough to flip. To flip omelet, carefully slip it onto a plate, cover with a second plate, invert and slide it back into the hot pan. Cook until done. It should still be soft inside, and about 1-inch thick. Cut into squares and serve hot, or let cool to room temperature. Yield: 4-6 Servings

CORKS AND FORKS

Pair UpWith La Sommelierre Maria Terry

Herbed Goat Cheese and Prosciutto ShrimpINGREDIENTS12 tablespoons goat cheese 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley 1 teaspoon chopped fresh tarragon 1 teaspoon chopped fresh chervil 1 teaspoon chopped fresh oregano 2 teaspoons minced garlic Salt and pepper 12 large shrimp, peeled, tail-on and butterflied 12 thin slices of prosciutto 2 tablespoons olive oil Drizzle of white truffle oilDIRECTIONSIn a mixing bowl, blend the cheese, herbs and garlic together. Season the

mixture with salt and pepper. Sea-son the shrimp with salt and pepper. Press one tablespoon of the filling in the cavity of each shrimp. Wrap each shrimp tightly with one piece of pro-sciutto. In a sauté pan heat the olive oil. When the oil is hot, add the stuffed shrimp and sear for two to three minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and their tails curl in towards their body. Remove from the pan and place on a large plate. Drizzle with truffle oil. Garnish with parsley. Yield: 12 Stuffed Shrimp

Spanish BrunchMy father loves getting together

for brunch. Brunch is held early in the day when everyone is fresh and hasn’t had a full day of work to get tired out. The foods are simpler and usually served buffet style. Everyone can take what they want and in the amount they want. Here is a Spanish brunch that would meet Dad’s requirements perfectly.

I love omelets for brunch, but om-elets usually involve complicated sta-tions and need to be cooked to order. Spain has come up with the perfect solu-tion, Torta Española (Spanish omelet). Cooked as one large piece and cut into

squares or triangles, it can be served hot or at room temperature. Add some sau-téed Herbed Goat Cheese and Prosciutto Shrimp as well as crispy Chicken and Andouille Strudel (recipe at www.La-Sommelierre.com), and you have a com-plete brunch menu.

What is the best wine to pair with all of these delicious recipes? Sparkling wine, of course, and this menu is a per-fect opportunity to pair geographically. Choose a sparkling wine from Spain called Cava. The word cava means “cave, cellar” in both Catalan and Spanish. His-torically, caves were used for the pres-ervation or aging of wine and the name

was officially adopted in 1970 to distin-guish it from French champagne. Pro-duced primarily in Catalonia, Cava can be white or rosé and is primarily made from a classic blend of grapes: Maca-beu (providing fruit, aroma and acid), Parellada (adding delicacy) and Xarel-lo (boosting alcohol and acid). To make rosé Cava, small quantities of still red wines from Cabernet Sauvignon, Garna-cha or Monastrell are added.

Each of the recipes with Cava are perfectly accompanied by a large bowl of fresh fruits; you can pick your favorites

from what is local and in season. As a bo-nus, the fruit will satisfy sweet cravings at the end of the meal, and there is no need for a heavy dessert. Finally, consider of-fering sparkling water with slices of lem-on and oranges for those who choose not to drink alcohol or as a respite through-out the meal.

So, go on. Pair Up!Maria Terry is a Certified Somme-

lier and Wine Educator in the San Fran-cisco Bay Area. For more great wines and information please visit Maria’s website at www.LaSommelierre.com.

Saturdays, 9 am-1 pm • Rain or ShineUpcoming Events:

SSSatttuuurrrrdaayyysss, 999 aaammm-11 pppmmm • RRaainnn ooorrr SSShhhiiinneea d s a - mm • i rrr iiy , p,,yyyy ppppdddaaa , aaaa - aaada uuua sssssSSSa , 999 - ooo SSS iiinnneeeiiiiiinnn hhhimm RRRmmttt mmm- rrrrrrSa rrr a a -11 aa edd - p • odd --SSSa 999 - RR iii eeiiiiiUpcoming Events:p m nUpcoming Eventsggppp sseeooccUU ttEEmmm nnnii ::vvnnUp o i g E e t :

June 2 & 9 - Enter to win a Fathers’ Day gift including movie tix and a grill set.June 30 - Enter to win 4 tix to Pleasant Hill’s annual Family Camp-Out.

CITY OF PLEASANT HILL

Crescent Dr.at Downtown Plaza

Your Food,Your Community,

Your Farmers’ Market


Pleasant Hill Senior Activities

Martinez Senior Activities818 Green St. (925) 370-8770

249 Gregory Lane (925) 798-8788

June 7, 14, 21 & 28 - Catch Yourself: Maintain Your Independence 12:30-1:30pm.Joinusfora4-partclassseriesandlearnhowtostaystrongtostayonyourfeet!Topicsinclude:Riskfactorsforfalling,exercisesforbalanceandstrength,homeassessment,medicationmanagement,maintainingstrongbonesandhowtofallsafely.PresentedbyJohnMuir.AtAegisofPleasantHill,1660OakParkBlvd.Fee:$10Pre-Registrationisrequired:Call798-8788orvisittheSeniorCentertosignup!Classislimitedto20people.

June 12 - Backyard BBQ12pm.EnjoyaclassicbackyardBBQonawonderfulJuneafternoonmunchingonahotdogwithallthefixingsandplayingbaggowithfriends.$5member/$6general.PurchaseyourticketsattheLittleHousebeforetheevent.PleasantHillSeniorCenterLittleHouse.

June 24 - BuncoPotluckat2pm;Buncoat3pm.Funandfriendlyatmospherewherenopriorknowledgeofthegameisnecessary!BuyyourticketattheSen-iorCenter!Tickets:$4plusbringpotluckitemtofeed4people.VFWBldg.:1919WendellLn.,PleasantHill.

June 29 - Thirsty Friday3-5pmKickofftheweekendearly!Enjoyaspin-offofTasteoftheVinewithaMargaritatwist!Wine,Margaritas,andlighthourd’oeuvreswillbeserved.Non-alcoholicbeveragesavailable.Fee:$7pre-sale/$10atthedoor.SponsoredbytheChateausofPleasantHill,ChateauIII:175CleavelandRoad.PurchaseticketsattheSeniorCenter.

June 10 - Pancake Breakfast 8am–11am.Pancakesortoast,sausage,eggs,orangejuiceandcoffee.Everyoneiswelcome.$3.50Adults/$210yrs.&younger.Handmadecrafts,perfectforgifts,willbeonsaleduringthebreakfast.

June 15 - Guide to Supporting Family Members with Dementia1pmSeniorHelp-erswillbeprovidingafree2-hourworkshop.Thiswillincludeaninstructionalvideo,recentlyreleasedbyTeepaSnow,adementiaexpert,alongwithahands-ondem-onstrationofspecificskillsandtechniquestohelpyouprovideeffectivecare.Topicsofdiscussioninclude:Whentoseekhelpfromaphysician;thedifferencebetweenAlzheimer’sanddementia;howdifferentpartsofthebrainareaffectedbydemen-tia;andtheiruniqueandpositiveapproachestodementiacare,including:TheSeniorGems,alongwithwaystochangeresistanceandrefusalsintoparticipationandsuccessfulinteractions.Calltheofficeat(925)370-8770tosign-upforthisveryinformativeseminar.

June 29 – July 20 - Catch Yourself – Maintain Your Independence–Fridays,1:30pm–2:30pm.Afour-partclassseriesisofferedbyJohnMuirHealthSeniorServices.$12fortheseries.Limitedto20.June29:RiskFactorsforFalling,IndividualHealthCon-cernsandStrengtheningExercises;July6:TheActivityPyramid,CreatinganExerciseAgendaandBalanceExercises;July13:HomeAssessment,MedicationManagementandStretchingGuidelines;July20:Osteoporosis–MaintainingStrongBones,HowtoFall(andgetup)andStrengthTraining.

Showrooms also in Santa Clara & Milbrae

Star Quest Anniversary

Star Quest showcased over thirty young entertainers in its 20th anniver-sary talent show at the Diablo Valley Col-lege Performing Arts Theatre on April 21 and 22. The show’s director, Lori Tassano, wrote an entertaining script that covered two decades of Star Quest including Dis-ney, Broadway, Hollywood and patriotic medleys that interspersed fourteen indi-vidual acts. In addition, five former “vet-

erans” returned to the Star Quest stage to participate in this “homecoming” show. Star Quest veterans Gianna (Lamanna) Summers (1993), Megan (Botts) Hamzawi (1995), Kari Flaskerud (1995), Carol Acu-na (1997) and Nicole Palmeri (2002) gave spectacular performances to a packed house. According to the show’s founder and producer, Jim Nunes, the intent of Star Quest is to provide a positive program where young individuals of the commu-nity, in grades K through 12, can show-case their artistic and theatrical talents and strengthen their confidence, self esteem and ability to interact with an audience. Star Quest’s non-competitive environment provides an opportunity for young people to gain experience and nurture their talent. Besides stressing the positive, an important element of Star Quest is keeping it fun. This year’s shows were a huge suc-cess, thanks to the many sponsors and donors that help support the Star Quest productions. Nunes is particulary thank-ful to the Rotary Club of Pleasant Hill for their sponsorship and support since 1993. The Rotary’s President, Bob Turcios, an-nounced that a $1,000 scholarship called “The Jim Nunes Performing Arts Schol-arship” will be presented every year to a graduating College Park High School se-nior who pursues studies in the perform-ing arts. President Turcios stated that the scholarship was to honor Jim for his many years of service to Rotary and the commu-nity and for his twenty years of producing Star Quest.

Dominic Hanecak and Emily Stone perform “You Have a Friend in Me”


League Champions

www.todgomes.comSports Action Photographer

925-787-1063

Tired of missing that perfect shot?

Sign up for only $25 and he will focus only on your child athlete during their game. Don’t miss thisonce in a lifetime opportunity.

PHBA Official Photographer at the June 9th & 10th tournament. Sign up beforehand.

HOME TEAM

On May 15, College Park (18-6, 11-1 DVAL) celebrated the DVAL Baseball Championship in a 2-0 win over North-gate (20-4, 9-3 DVAL). This is College Park’s first league championship since 1994. One key College Park varsity player had a hand in his team’s three wins in one week. Anthony Baleto combined to go 4-for-8 with three runs scored, two doubles, three RBIs, two stolen bases

and a walk. He also pitched two innings, striking out four and retiring all six bat-ters he faced. On May 1, in a showdown with rival Concord, Baleto pitched a complete game and fanned six in a 2-1 win to preserve the Falcons’ perfect DVAL slate (8-0). Freshman Joe DeMers earned wins against Northgate and Clay-ton Valley. He struck-out six in a com-plete-game effort versus the Broncos and knocked a home run against the Eagles.

Congratulations to PHMSA Rush U12 Girl’s for taking 1st place at the Comstock Shootout in Carson City, NV on April 21-22. 1st row L to R: Iona McCabe, Jenna Coffman, mascot Rushkie, Jessica Miller & Natalie Han-

nah; 2nd row L to R: Coach Chris Renner, Kelly Ruff, Lauren Renner, Jenna Stefanski, Sophie Riker, Kendall Capolungo, Megan Bristow, Jordan Davis & Asst. Coach Kirsten Riker. Not pictured: Hannah Eales.

Submitted by Jodi Robinson.

Xtreme Takes First

Rush Wins ComstockBack row: Armin Safarians, Alyssa Walker, Julia Betti, Tom Monroe, Samantha Monroe, Katie Foerste, Rylee

McCormick, Paul Betti Front row: Kelly Hunyada, Chloe Taylor, Arianna Safarians, Bella Puljiz

In April, PHMSA Xtreme U10 girl’s soccer team took first place at the Comstock Shootout in Carson City, Nevada. During the tournament, they had three shutouts, including a 5-0 win over MDSA Velocity in the Championship Game. Xtreme also traveled to Visalia in March and earned a 3rd place medal in the Cuties Soccer Slam tournament.

Saturday, June 9

[email protected] Hutslar


Tourney Champs

www.lesschwabmartinez.comVISIT US AT:

6/30/12

HOME TEAMSeason Ticket

By Chuck NanRutley a Raider Brandon Rutley, an Alhambra alum and Martinez resident, has signed a contract with the Oakland Raiders. Rutley, a running back, will attend the team’s upcoming mini camps as an undrafted free agent. Most recently, he was a key contributor for the San Jose State Spartans football team. While at Alhambra, Rutley gained several thousand yards rushing while he starred on Dave Silveira’s varsity team for three seasons. He earned numerous athletic awards and honors on the gridiron for the Bulldogs.Reger Captures World Title Sean Sharkey, manager for Martinez’s own MMA fighter Rick “Boomer” Reger, tells us that the big guy is now a champion. Reger captured the Gladiator Challenge Light Heavyweight World Championship in a split decision over highly-regarded Michael Sandez of Los Angeles. Reger came out victorious in a bout

that was quite fierce and bloody for both fighters. The packed house at Soboda Ca-sino in Southern California was decidedly in Sandez’s favor, but Reger took control of the bout midway through the second round and finished strong to take the decision. Reger trains at FightKore Gym on Main Street. CP Alum on Olympic Team Melissa Seidemann, CP 2008 gradu-ate was named to the 2012 US Olympic Women’s Water Polo Team.College Park 10 DVAL Champs College Park earned 10 DVAL titles this year: Girls Cross Country, Football, Girls Soccer, Boys Basketball, Boys Golf, Boys Volleyball, Baseball, Boys Swimming/Diving, Boys Track and Wrestling.DVC Swimming The Diablo Valley College swimming duo of Lee Ward and Taylor Henry starred for a Vikings swimming squad that did well at the Big 8 Conference Championships in

Sacramento on April 19-21. Ward led the men’s team by winning the 200-yard IM and 200-yard free and swam on five winning relays. Henry led the women’s side, winning the 50 & 100-yard back, 50-yard fly and four relays. The women’s squad took second place at the CCCAA state championships on April 26-28 in Los Angeles. Lisa Boozer (100-yard breast), Shaila Yoder (50-yard breast) and the 400-yard medley relay team of Courtney Leonard, Yoder, Hannah Voegtly and Henry all won first place in the event for a state title. Orange Coast College won the team crown with 431.5 points, while the Vikings finished a very close second with 428.5 points.Local Track and Field News Praise Adesida, a member of the Alhambra track and field team was selected as the Contra Costa Times’ Athlete of the Week in early May. The senior participated in the prestigious Sacramento Meet of Champions Invitational in both the discus throw and shot put, her specialties. Later in the month, Adesida won the DFAL crown in both events, breaking her own school records with marks of 43’3” in the shot and 139’6” in the discus. The talented senior has announced that she will accept a scholar-ship to UC Davis. Zach Coniglio, an Alhambra alum and sophomore at Sacramento State, won the Big Sky Conference Shot Put championship at the league meet in Bozeman, Montana. Coniglio was best with his toss of 17.72 me-ters, which outdistanced the second-place finisher by 0.28 meters. The College Park track and field team

participated in the NCS Tri Valley Meet May 19. Two athletes from CP qualified to move on to the NCS Meet Of Champions in Berkeley. Senior Hiroki Butterfield qualified in the 300 hurdles race and junior Kendall Stuscavage qualified in all of her individual races, the 1600m, 400m and the 800m. Stuscavage took first in the 1600m at the Sacramento Meet of Champions Invita-tional with the time of 5:15.50.DVC Diamond Stars Many of coach Steve Ward’s Diablo Valley College baseball players earned Big 8 Conference honors for their efforts dur-ing the 2012 season. They include: Most Valuable Player Aaron Hernandez, First-Team starting pitcher Nick Pasquale, first baseman Devin Alexander, infielder Eddie Aguayo, Second-Team DH Ryan Kochan, and Honorable Mention outfielder Matt Burks. Both Alexander and Pasquale were unanimous selections.Random Hits Bentley School freshman Sydney Babiak earned Second-Team All-Bay Counties League honors for golf. Babiak helped her team win the league crown in early-May. After that, Babiak went on to the U.S. Women’s Open qualifier played at Half Moon Bay Golf Links. Tyler Sylvia, a defender from the Alhambra boys soccer team has announced that he has accepted a scholarship offer to play next season at the University of San Francisco. Sylvia was a three-time all-DFAL selection for the Bulldogs.

College Park JV Baseball Team Wins Concord Classic Baseball Tournament 17-4 against Heritage High School April 28. Submitted by Wendy Sarrasin


College Park High School has enjoyed a successful wrestling program since its inception in 1960. What’s their secret? Head coach, Jim Keck sheds some light on CP’s wrestling legacy. Community Focus (CF): The wrestling team at CP has quite a tradition of suc-cess. Tell me more about that legacy and how it continues today. Jim Keck (JK): The College Park wrestling program has been blessed with long-term dedicated coaches/teachers who are on campus. Teacher/coach John Owings started the winning tradition with a Nor-Cal Championship in ‘66. Then CP Alum and teacher, Tim Rhyan, a football and wrestling star during CP’s early years, led the team to three consecutive undefeated seasons in ‘74, ’75 and ‘76. Clyde Forrest was next, followed by Cory Salmon who ushered in the modern era of success for Falcon wrestling. During the following thirteen years as a teacher/coach, Salmon led the team to five league championships and two top-ten finishes at State. I wrestled for Salmon from ’84-‘89 and took over in ‘96. The team has captured ten more league championships, four NCS championships, and finished in the top five in NCS on eight other occasions. Between Salmon (who is still assisting with the program) and myself, there has been continuity in the program since ‘84. Additionally, we have had the bonus of long-time assistants Leroy Rivers since 1990 and David Smith since 2001.Another prong to our success is our club/feeder program. Pleasant Hill Wrestling, pioneered by Coach Salmon in ’94, nur-tures the College Park wrestlers as well as student/athletes from other area schools.Lastly, we’ve had the advantage of fantastic parent support in the community year in and year out.CF: This season’s team dominated the First-Team All DVAL selections. How did you assemble such a successful squad?JK: We had a great group of young men with a senior dominated squad. Many started their careers as youngsters in the Pleasant Hill Club. All of them took great pride in the program and worked together to lead the entire team to a stellar finish. Hard work is infectious, and the wrestlers

at all levels came prepared to work. We had many talented kids this season, all sharing one thing in common: Commitment.CF: Brian Sergi went on to win a state CIF wrestling title. Very prestigious! Brian was a three-time NCS champion. Tell me more about him, his work ethic, etc.JK: A state title in California is a huge deal. There are 1522 high schools in the state. California is one of only two states to host a unified state meet with only one division crowning one “true” state champion per weight each year. Brian did that this year against some very talented competition. Brian was also recently named Honorable Mention HS All-American by Wrestling USA. Brian worked year-round since 6th grade to make himself a better wrestler. He wrestled with the Pleasant Hill Club and others. On weekends, Brian traveled as far away as Stanford and San Jose for extra practice and technique time. He trained in Mixed Martial Arts including Judo, Ju-Jitsu, and Stick Fighting, all of which helped hone and round out his wrestling.CF: What does the complexion of next year’s team look like? JK: We will have a young team next year, and no returning NCS place winners. Our last young team was in 2004. Just two years later, that young team won NCS and had nine NCS placers. Can this group of underclassmen repeat history? That is yet to be seen…there are definitely some dark horses in the mix.CF: Wrestling is just one way a young athlete can complete an education. Are there any wrestlers going on to compete at the next level?JK: Yes, Brian Sergi will be attending Appa-lachian State, Alex Encarnacion will attend UC Bakersfield, and JJ Chou will attend SF State. This was Coach Jim Keck’s 17th year as wrestling coach (15 years at Head Coach). Keck is a 1989 CP Alum and was 4th in NCS in ’88 and 1st in ‘89. He wrestled at both Chico State and UC Davis. Coach Keck was named NCS Honor Coach of the Year 2004 and CC Times Coach of the Year in 2006 and 2007.

A Wrestling LegacyBy Chuck Nan

Swimming & Diving College Park boys varsity won the DVAL title and the girls placed second. Monty Randall, Drew Pitcher, Nate Burkhart and Kyle Leung took first in the 200-yd medley relay, and set a pool record with the time of 1:38.13. Senior Monty Randall placed first in the 100-yard fly with the time of 50.61 and set the DVAL and school record. Sophomore Nate Burkhart placed first in the 200-yard free with the time of 1:43.95. Senior Drew Pitcher placed first in two events, the 50-yard free: 21.70 and the 100-yard breast-stroke: 1:01.07. Senior Hope Curran placed first in the 100-yard breaststroke with the time of 1:08.15. Senior Will Griffiths competed at the DFAL diving meet as a DVAL representative and took first with the score or 408.75 points. Will Griffiths qualified in his fourth consecutive NCS Diving Championship and placed 5th.

LtoR: Nate Burkhart, Drew Pitcher, Kyle Leung and Monty Randall. Photo by Denise Burkhart.

DFAL Champs

NCS Quarter Finals

The Alhambra High School Lady Bulldogs have defeated their league oppo-nents allowing only three runs with a final league record of 12-0 and 20-4 overall. Kylee Perez, the sensational Alham-bra sophomore softball player had a dou-ble in a 6-2 win over visiting Dublin on April 17, a triple in an 8-0 victory over host Dougherty Valley on April 19, and finished the week with a solo home run in a 6-5 win over highly-ranked visiting Petaluma on April 21. Erin Enke pitched a one-hit complete game shutout at Las Lo-

mas to keep the Lady Bulldogs perfect in league play (8-0). She attached ten strike-outs to her performance. Enke also won at Dublin, registering sixteen of the eighteen outs via strikeouts. Kylee Perez had six home runs in a five-game span and earned Times’ Athlete of the Week honors. In two DFAL wins, she was 5-for-6 with four runs and four RBIs. That put Perez’s season batting av-erage at .549 with 11 home runs, which is second best in the NCS and among the state leaders.

College Park, ranked 4th in NCS, celebrates a 3-2 victory over 5th ranked San Ramon Valley. CP moves to the semi finals vs #1 seed De La Salle. Photo by TodGomes.com.

HOME TEAM


NOW OPEN!

Change "Open House" to "Now Open"Change "Friday, March 11" to Monday-Friday 7:30 - 5:00Add phone number (925) 609-6420Add somewhere: "Serving Builders, Architects & Designers with top quality custom doors, windows and millwork."

Monday - Friday 7:30 - 5:00925.609.64205399 Pacheco Blvd. Pacheco CA 94553

Serving Builders, Architects, Designers & Homeowners with top quality custom doors, windows and millwork.

Pleasant Hill Middle School Track Meet

MEF Grant Awards

The annual Pleasant Hill Middle School all-school track meet was held on May 9-11. Throughout the 3-day meet 11 records were broken. Below is a list of the top winners in all 10 events. Congratulations to all the competitors!

6th Grade 50-Yard Dash, Boys: Arthur Peetoom, 6.65 sec., Girls: Sophia Cervantes, 6.89 sec. 100-Yard Dash, Boys: Arthur Peetoom, 12.56 sec., Girls: Francesca Monti, 13.45sec. 220-Yard Dash, Boys: Jackson Thomas, 30.16 sec., Girls: Jayna Jordan, 32.29 sec. 440-Yard Dash, Boys: Arthur Peetoom, 1:07.13, Girls: Sophia Cervantes, 1:10.73 - NEW RECORD. 440 Relay, Boys: Jonathan Chacon, Brenden Monahan, Jackson Thomas and Kristian Markov, 1:01. 61, Girls: Jayna Jordan, Sydney King, Annie Klopstock and Sophia Cervantes, 1:01.11. Mile, Boys: Jacob Eide, 6:00.33, Girls: Anne Klopstock, 6.28:05. Shot Put, Boys: Tony Alcorn, 30’7”, Girls: Sophie Rousset, 26’. High Jump, Boys: Josh Arroyo, 4’2”, Girls: Jayna Jordan, 4’3”- NEW RECORD. Long Jump, Boys: Arthur Pee-toom, 12’1”, Girls: Francesca Monti, 12’6.5”. Softball Throw, Boys: Dean Jones, 161’1”, Girls: Bridgette Faulk, 104’7”.7th Grade50-Yard Dash, Boys: Nick Lombardi, 6.47 sec., Girls: Lucy Murov, 6.88 sec. 100-Yard Dash, Boys: Nick Lombardi, 12.27 sec., Girls: Lucy Murov, 12.46 sec.- NEW RECORD. 220-Yard Dash, Boys: Nick Lom-bardi, 29.50 sec., Girls: Lucy Murov, 29.20

sec.- NEW RECORD. 440-Yard Dash, Boys: Nick Lombardi, 1:04.85, Girls: Summer Throne, 1:12.61. 440 Relay, Boys: Sean Rig-ley, Joshua Manko, Nick Lombardi and Moi-ses Pagan, 58.97 sec. Girls: Summer Throne, Gabby Bain, Lucy Murov and Prescilla Renteria, 1:02.39. Mile, Boys: Nathan Vahey, 5:43.11, Girls: Gabriela Tambazidis, 6:37.69. Shot Put, Boys: Colton Uribe, 33’5.5”, Girls: Sarah Wehrer, 29’6”. High Jump, Boys: Joey Searle, 4’8”, Girls: Cassie Silva, 4’0”. Long Jump, Boys: Joseph Carmichael, 14’6.5”, Girls: Gabriela Tambazidis, 12’10”. Softball Throw, Boys: Thomas Seibel, 190’1”, Girls: Molly Seibel, 148’9”. 8th Grade50-Yard Dash, Boys: Ray Jackson, 5.86 sec., Girls: Caleigh Silva, 6.75 sec. 100-Yard Dash, Boys: Ray Jackson, 10.76 sec.- NEW RECORD, Girls: Caleigh Silva, 12.82 sec. 220-Yard Dash, Boys: Ray Jackson, 25.06 sec. -NEW RECORD. Girls: Nicole Lindenauer, 30.86 sec. 440-Yard Dash, Nick Lopez, 57.11- NEW RECORD, Girls: Erika Kemp, 1:11.5. 440 Relay, Boys: Nick Lopez, Edgar Carran-za, Cole Hutslar and James Doty, 50.42 sec.- NEW RECORD, Girls: Nicole Lindenauer, Kayla Dempsey, Logan Silva and Danielle Romero, 1:00.67. Mile, Boys: David Phair,

8th grade 440 relay record holders, James Doty, Cole Hutslar with PE teacher Mrs Quimet, Nick Lopez and Edgar Carranza.

Sixth graders Olivia Schmidt, Stephanie Neys, Francesca Monti and Ollie Kurk competing in the 100-yard dash.

The Board of Directors of the Mar-tinez Education Foundation has an-nounced their 2012 Grant Awards. This year, MEF was able to award 37 grants totaling $135,972 for new technol-ogy, equipment, tools, books, musical instruments and other physical items to be used in classrooms throughout the Martinez public schools. Seven of the grants in the area of arts and music were made in partnership with the Cameron Baird Foundation.Alhambra High School $36,822Martinez Junior High School $31,189

Vincente Martinez High School $10,087Morello Park Elementary $17,370Las Juntas Elementary$24,595John Swett Elementary $9,681John Muir Elementary $5,850Adult Education $378 MEF thanks and appreciates all of its donors and volunteers for their great support throughout the year that al-lows MEF the opportunity to make our schools better! Additional information about the grants can be found at MEF’s website at www.martinezedfoundation.com.

5:08.93- NEW RECORD, Girls: Erika Kemp, 6:54.24. Shot Put, Boys: Tyler Kelso, 40’8.5”, Girls: Beverly Kurk, 33’11”. High Jump, Boys: Ray Jackson, 5’5”- NEW RECORD, Girls:

Kayla Dempsey, 5’2”. Long Jump, Boys: Ray Jackson, 18’4”- NEW RECORD, Girls: Caleigh Silva, 13’4.5”. Softball Throw, Boys: Robert Towne, 230’6”, Girls: Jamie Olsen, 168’6”.


Rodgers Ranch Gets Kitchen Renovation By Alison Clary

In April 2012, we did a piece on Rod-gers Ranch, the historic farmhouse that still stands on Cortsen Road. The original two-story house was built in 1867, and countless changes have occurred since then. Through financial donations and hardworking volunteers, the old kitchen has been restored to a good, old-fash-ioned (and working!) kitchen from the early 1900s. Grabbing ice cream from the freezer or microwaving a bag of popcorn is some-thing we take for granted, but the early residents of Rodgers Ranch faced many a challenge before modern kitchens be-came the norm. When the house was first built, a wood-burning stove would have been used for cooking (and keeping the house warm), and in the early 1900s, elec-trical ovens were a vast improvement. Re-cently, The President of Friends of Rodg-ers Ranch, Denise Koroslev, was excited to find a beautiful white and black enamel gas stove (circa 1930) at a garage sale for $50 (“Antiques Roadshow” anyone?), and it looks right at home at the ranch. The PH Rec & Park will have a gas line installed so it can be used to bake apple crisps once again! We can’t imagine being without run-ning water today, but homesteaders from the late 1800s like the Rodgers would have had to dig a well and install a windmill to pump the water, even before building a house. Denise speculates that since indoor plumbing and septic tanks were already in use by the late 1800s, a sink with running water could have been installed by Patrick

Rodgers’ grown children around the time he died, in 1891. While meats were smoked or cured to last, most foods on the ranch would have been eaten fresh daily. In the early 1900s, homes had blocks of ice delivered by ice men to keep items insulated in (the aptly named) ice boxes. A cold creek out back might have even been called into service to keep food containers chilled. The ranch’s current refrigerator was made around 1940 and is put into regular active use. You may even find freshly churned butter in there, courtesy of the ranch’s her-itage programs. The Diablo Valley Woodworkers vol-unteered their skills to create drawers and make various improvements to the exist-ing Hoosier-style, built-in cabinet (circa 1920). They also made a new cabinet to go underneath the kitchen sink. A board

member of FORR as well as general con-tractor, Steve Wallace, and his crew re-moved the old sheet rock and linoleum from the kitchen floor, repaired the under-lying wood floor and painted it an earthy brown to match the rest of the first floor. They also restored the cabinet, repaired the walls, replaced the kitchen door, and

painted the room and cabinets a cheery buttermilk shade, all done at a substantial discount. Simple, sheer, cream curtains now adorn the two large sunny windows. The board has contributed to the décor by adding authentic appliances and uten-sils such as a toaster, ice cream and butter makers, and meat grinders, from the time frame between 1915 and 1940. These improvements were made pos-sible through generous contributions. Last year, Kathy Watson, the local regent of the Anne Loucks Chapter of the National So-ciety of the Daughters of the American Revolution, presented Friends of Rodg-ers Ranch with a donation of $1250, and David and Adrianne Roe of Leading Edge Pest Management donated $1240. Visitors are invited to come see the restored kitch-en, and kids participating in the upcoming summer Round Up camps can look for-ward to activities like churning ice cream or making lemonade in the “new” old kitchen! For more information on Rodg-ers Ranch, visit www.rodgersranch.org.

artesadental

Dr. Amanda Backstrom DMD Graduate of Tufts University School of Dental Medicine

For health, function & beauty

4041 Alhambra Ave. Suite 109 Martinez, CA 94553 Tel: 925-370-9900

www.artesadental.com

$72 exam, xrays and smile analysis*

Value up to $260 or insurance will pay. Offer includes initial exam, consultation and necessary xrays. New Patients Only. *Offer expires 60 days from receipt

FREE Teeth Whitening*

A $300 value (tray system) at an introductory offer with completed new patient exam, xrays and cleaning. Amanda Backstrom DMD, Inc.

$89 Dental Cleaning*

Value up to $129 or insurance will pay. Offer applies after a completed exam and xrays. Does not include periodontal cleaning. New Patients only. * for non-insured patients

Insurance accepted Easy Payment Plans Se Habla Español

WELCOME NEW PATIENTS! We provide quality dental care in a compassionate and relaxing environment. Call and make an appoint-

ment with your local family dentist today!

PAST TO PLEASANT


Summer is here, which means one thing…. kids are out of school. If you’re a parent, this means finding ways to keep your child active and engaged during long summer days that can quickly turn into a monotonous cycle of TV watching and video games. Pleasant Hill Recreation and Park District’s Recreation Summer School is the solution to this age-old problem, and it’s coming this summer with a NEW look and EXTREME experience for kids!

In its 34th year, Recreation Summer School (RSS) is gearing up to provide kids with a summer they’ll never forget. Imag-ine a day structured similar to school, but instead of going from math to science to history class, your child is taking classes like Act it Out, Culinary Arts, Mixed Me-dia Medley and Duct Tape 101. Instead of holding the remote control, they’ll be dribbling a basketball or learning creative ways to work with beads in a macramé

Recreation Summer School Gets a New Look

PHBA Gives Back

Outdoor Family Fun

PH Baseball Assoc. President, Mark Rolandelli, presents a check to Dennis Donaghu, Chair, PH Rec & Park as part of their organization’s ongoing partnership to operate and maintain PHBA fields

and jewelry class. “RSS is an enrichment program more than just a summer camp. Students will be learning something new and exciting in classes they choose ranging from dra-ma to sports classes,” says Lance Hurtado, Recreation Supervisor for PHRPD. “I think RSS stands out from other pro-grams because is it has a curriculum rath-er than a traditional camp setting, which generally doesn’t have a structured learn-ing time.” New to the curriculum this year will be Flag Football, Cheerleading, Wrestling, Softball Training and Sports Medley, a unique mix of sports challenge activities. Long time program favorites like CPR/First Aid, Musical Theater and Soccer Training will still be offered along with the popular Ultimate Challenges class, which has kids compete in relay games including egg runs, water balloon tosses and a challenge course. One of the biggest challenges parents face during the summer is finding a pro-gram compatible with their work sched-ules. For this reason, RSS is providing a new “Xtra Weekdays Program” along with the Extended Morning Care option. These low-cost extended care programs are designed to help the working par-ent, giving supervised fun from 9:30am to 5:30pm, five days a week and starting as early as 7am, Tuesdays through Thurs-days. Recreation Summer School is offered for kids in grades 1 through 8 and runs

from June 25 through August 2. If you’re looking for additional weeks of fun for your child, sign them up for EXTREME RECESS. A new addition to the summer schedule, Extreme Recess is eighty hours of planned activities including field trips, adventure hikes and swim days at the Pleasant Hill Aquatic Park. “These two weeks will be all about fun with a slight twist on learning,” says Hurtado. For more detailed information on how to register for Recreation Summer School, Extreme Recess and the Extend-ed Care Programs, visit the Pleasant Hill Recreation and Park District website at www.pleasanthillrec.com or call (925) 682-0896. Registrations will be accepted until June 22 or when classes fill (which-ever comes first).

On July 14 and 15, Pleasant Oaks Park will be transformed into Camp Pleasant Hill filled with activities for all ages; music, crafts, a campfire, an outdoor movie, and even s’mores. Fun for the whole family! This is a great opportunity for par-ents to introduce their children to the joys of camping – without traveling far from home. It’s also an opportunity to enjoy the beauty of Pleasant Oaks Park and the warm weather. Campers are encouraged to bring their tents, sleeping bags, flashlights,

chairs, a change of clothes and personal items and settle in for the night. No pets please. The Pleasant Hill Baseball Asso-ciation’s Snack Shack will be open with snacks, dinner, and breakfast available for purchase. Check in for Camp Pleasant Hill on Saturday July 14 at 3pm; activities begin at 4:30pm. Check out on Sunday July 15 at 10 am. Register in advance for $10 per per-son. Call Pleasant Hill Recreation & Park District or register online at www.pleas-anthillrec.com.


SAMUELSCONSTRUCTION

General Contractor Lic#652185

MEMBER

Kitchens • Bath RemodelingTile • Cultured Marble • Granite

Additions • Windows • DoorsConcrete • Foundations

Driveways • Patios • FencesALL PHASES OF CONSTRUCTION

PLANS [email protected] • 925.260.4448

313 Gloria Drive, Pleasant Hill

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

Hire My Husband

925-969-0133

Contractor Lic. # 943231www.HireMyHusband.com

• Interior Painting

• Quality Home Repair Projects

• Handyman Services

All kinds of Interior and Exterior handyman projects.

Summer is definitely on its way, which makes this a great time to get re-acquainted with your watering system. In general, lawns will thrive on a sched-ule of watering three to four days a week, while trees, shrubs and groundcover re-quire two. Water early in the day when winds are calm and temperatures are cool - you’ll lose less water to evapora-tion. And water deeply. This leads to deeper roots and a larger soil reservoir from which to draw moisture. Wise Tip: Inspect your landscape and sprinklersMicroclimates: Plants on the north and east side of your house will generally be

in more shade than plants on the south and west side. Plants in these shadier areas require less water than those in full sun. Adjust your watering schedule to account for these different “microcli-mates” in your yard. This can save you water and improve the health of your plants.Lawn Sprinklers: Tall grass around sprinkler heads can block the spray pat-tern. As a result, some areas of the lawn won’t get the water they need. Inspect your sprinklers the day before you plan to mow your lawn. If the spray does not clear the grass when the sprinkler heads pop-up, you have two choices to fix the

problem. The easy fix is to use clippers and trim the grass lower around each head. You can do this each week you mow. The permanent fix is to replace short pop-up sprinklers with four-inch pop-up sprinklers. Lawns should be mowed to two and a half to three inches high, so the four-inch pop-up is ideal. For more water conservation informa-tion, visit the CCWD website: www.ccwa-ter.com/conserve or call 925-688-8320.

Water Wise TipsBy Chris Dundon, Water Conservation Supervisor, CCWD


For a free written estimate contact John at (925) 676-0792or email him at: [email protected]

JOHN

John McDonald, Owner • Lic.# 775382

• 23 Years Experience• Commercial & Residential

• Interior & Exterior Painting• Tape

• Texture• Acoustic Texture Removal

• Cabinets & Trim • Stain & Lacquer

• Wood Deck Refinishing

Leave the painting to me!THE PAINTER

Twin Brothers Corner the Market on Fresh ProduceBy Randy Wanser

As I arrive at Pleasant Hill Market, on the corner of Pleasant Hill and Grayson Roads, to interview store co-owner Nate Mora, a woman urgently asks, “Do you have any more ‘Bob Marley Tea?’ ” Before gently letting the customer down and en-couraging her to return tomorrow, Nate guesses correctly that the tea is for her teenage son. As he leads me through the produce aisles to the back storeroom, he explains: “Marley’s Mellow Mood drinks are all the rage with teens. They keep buying me out! This tea is like the opposite of en-ergy drinks. The marketing says it reduces stress, eases the mind and calms the soul. Somewhere in Pleasant Hill, the coolest kid in town has got half a case of Marley under his bed!” Nate offers me his only chair, turns a case of California Gold Yams on end for himself, and the interview begins.CF: How’d you get into this business?NM: My twin brother, Matt, and I were looking for a business to own. An agent

showed us this market, which used to be Produce King. We liked that it had thirty years’ history. The original owners, the Martinez family, actually came in and helped us. They are produce experts. They taught us where to get the best fruits and vegetables and how to clean and sell them. They got us off the ground. This May, we celebrated our fifth anniversary as owners.CF: You’re local boys out of Concord.

Why this location, on a rural stretch of Pleasant Hill?NM: Before we knew the store was for sale, I had been out driving in the area and thought it was a neat spot. Kids were flying kites in the park. People were out for a stroll. It was like, “Leave it to Beaver” land. I felt we could have great relation-ships in this community.CF: How has that turned out?NM: The local folks have been very gener-ous. Our first week in business, a neigh-bor welcomed us with freshly baked muf-fins. People have been coming here for two generations, so they want us to suc-ceed. We reciprocate by providing great produce at fair prices and by participating in many of the school and community fundraisers.CF: Where does all this fresh produce come from?NM: We are right in the middle of major produce growing regions. Family farms supply us six-days-a-week with truly ripe

and ready to eat produce. We get the best global produce by being first in line at the Oakland and San Francisco terminals ev-ery morning at three am.CF: How many people work at your store?NM: We have ten employees. It’s a fam-ily business, so our Mom, Lupe, and Dad, Gerardo, and Aunt Connie are also here all the time helping out.CF: You and Matt are identical twins. How do customers tell you apart?NM: We may look alike, but we’re com-plete opposites! Matt’s the quiet one, and I’m always chatting it up. Sometimes, I’ll overhear a customer say, “Oh, that’s Nate, because he’s talking.”CF: What do you enjoy most about your business?NM: I enjoy the interaction with people. Before this, I worked for Walmart in an office. Now, the store is my corner office. Whether we’re supplying teens with the hottest new nutritional beverages, or help-ing people fulfill a healthy lifestyle with organic produce, our goal is to please our customers.CF: Tell us about the “Coming Soon” sign in the window next door?NM: We’re targeting this summer to open a meat market and deli. We’re going to of-fer top-quality meats and sandwiches in the same friendly, small-town atmosphere as the produce market. Pleasant Hill Market is located at 2397 Pleasant Hill Road. They are open Monday to Saturday 8am to 8pm, and on Sunday 9am to 6pm. You can visit their website at pleasanthillmarket.com.

Matt and Nate Mora, owners of Pleasant Hill Market

®

Stop by and see us today.

Mailbox services from The UPS Store® make your life easier with: 1MONTH

FREEWITH A 3-MONTH MAILBOX SERVICES AGREEMENT (New Box Holders Only)


Dallimonti’s Restaurant

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

www.dallimontis.com

• A Family Tradition Since 1982 • Open for Lunch & Dinner• Reservations & Take Out Available • Small Banquets Welcome

• Full Bar & Wine List • A Touch of North Beach in your Neighborhood

Come help us

Celebrate 30 Years!We want to thank our family,

friends, customers and community for supporting us these past 30 years. It’s

been a great time with wonderful memories.

- Ron & Christy -

MONDAY JUNE 18Backdoor BBQ (every Monday)

Special Celebration tri-tip plate $ 5.00

TUESDAY JUNE 19TACO TUESDAY! Happy Hour 5-7

WEDNESDAY JUNE 20Wines half o� glass or bottle!

THURSDAY JUNE 21Come hear the sounds of Scott & Mike

7-10 pm. Two local talented singers and song writers

FRIDAY JUNE 22Roll back the price night (limited menu)

Karaoke with our great DJ, TJ! 9pm

SATURDAY JUNE 23Limited menu, reservations suggested!

Cover 2Cover Band 8:00PM plus special musical guests $ 5.00 cover charge

Enjoy these specials all week long!

Dance to the Music! Have you ever wondered why there aren’t more local opportunities in the East Bay for people of all ages to experience the wonderful world of music and dance? Don’t miss the 4th annual Fallen Heroes, Rising Stars: A Juneteenth Celebration Through Dance. The event is presented by Grown Women Dance Collective and sponsored by Aspire Pilates Center, Dancers Group, AKA Events, The Wil-lows Theatre and Hilton Concord, Fallen Heroes, Rising Stars is an uplifting, sway-in-your-seat and sing-to-the-music dance concert that celebrates music, dance, Ju-neteenth and American history. Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of African American liberation from slavery. The tradition dates back to June 19, 1865, when enslaved people in Texas were in-formed by Union soldiers that slavery had “ended.” This jubilant news, at last sup-ported by the Union Army’s enforcement of the law, came two and a half years after President Lincoln signed the Emancipa-tion Proclamation. Today on Juneteenth, we celebrate African American freedom while encouraging self-development and respect for all cultures. Inspired by the music of incredible artists such as James Brown, Ray Charles, Michael Jackson, Nina Simone, and Lu-ther Vandross, the choreography and multimedia of Fallen Heroes, Rising Stars speak to us of the struggles and achieve-ments of African Americans, and the common experiences that we all share as Americans. These unforgettable artists created timeless music that has greatly impacted the fabric of American culture.

The last three years of performanc-es found audience members spontane-ously singing and swaying along to the familiar songs that they listened to while growing up or falling in love. Inspired by seeing mature women of all shapes and sizes expressing themselves on stage, the culturally diverse audiences expressed that they felt “uplifted” and “proud to be American” after seeing the performances. “I had no idea what Juneteenth was be-fore tonight,” said one audience member, “Thank you so much for teaching me and my family about it. I have never experi-enced anything like this before.” With so many people of different backgrounds brought together to celebrate history, mu-sic and dance, Fallen Heroes, Rising Stars speaks loud and clear to the power of art influencing who we are as human beings. Grown Women Dance Collective is excited to present Fallen Heroes, Rising Stars: A Juneteenth Celebration Through Dance on June 30, 8:00pm at The Wil-lows Theatre in Concord. Reception to follow show. To purchase tickets please call: (925) 798-1300. For more informa-tion or sponsorships, please visit www.GrownWomenDance.org. Grown Women Dance Collective, fiscally sponsored by 501c3 Dancers Group, was founded in 2009 to create a positive and nurturing environment for mature, female dancers to create beauti-ful work that is relevant and accessible to diverse audiences. GWDC seeks to use the arts to bridge generations and cul-tures, to bridge the older generation with the younger generation, and to introduce concert dance to new audiences.

MinutemanPress

PLEASANT HILL

2835

Con

tra

Cost

a Bl

vd.,

Suite

E |

Plea

sant

Hill

, CA

DID YOU KNOW...WE DO MORE THAN BUSINESS CARDS?

WE CAN HANDLE ALL OF YOUR NEEDS... NEED FLYERS FOR YOUR SCHOOL EVENT? NEED POSTERS FOR YOUR UPCOMING EVENT?

OR DO YOU NEED....COLOR COPIES OR EVERYDAY OFFICE FORMS

ANNOUNCEMENTS... BABY, GRADUATION INVITATIONS OR HOLIDAY CARDS

PROMOTIONAL ITEMS ... TSHIRTS, STICKERS POSTERS, TICKETS

FLYERS, PRINTED OR COPIEDEVENT PROGRAMS, SWIM MEET EVENT BOOKS

WHAT DO YOU NEED? WE CAN HANDLE IT FOR YOU

925-256-6444www.minutemanpressph.com

Pleasant Hill City Hall Photo by Susan Wood Photography


925.335.9915601 Main Street, Martinez

www.smokeyds.com

Hours:Mon-Thur 11-8PMFri & Sat 11-9PM

FUNDRAISING! TWO OPTIONS AVAILABLECALL US FOR MORE INFORMATION

Slow Cooked, Smoked Meats and MoreGREAT

Open Sundays DuringMain Street Events Only

WHO WANTS RIBS?

Come See Us At The KING OF THE COUNTY BBQ

With Dad On Father’s Day Weekend

You can’t find a better deal than our Tuesday Ribs at Smokey D's. Enjoy our pork rib for only $1.50

each after 4pm. Dine in only please.

A LOCALFAVORITE!

JUNE 16-17 - MARTINEZ MARINA

Join our new Birthday Club and receive a $30 Birthday Certificate to spend at Kobe Japan Restaurant during the month of your birthday. You will also receive special offers and information

about the latest happenings in our monthly newsletter.

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

1918 Oak Park Blvd., Pleasant Hill, California 94523Phone: (925) 705-7065/7066 Fax: (925)705-7067

$30 Birthday CertificateVoted Best Japanese Restaurant by Best of the Bay TV Viewers in 2010

FLAVORS

SUGAR FREE FLAVORS

WWW. CO L D STO NECAKES . COM

BananaBlack Cherry

Blue Bubble GumBlue Raspberry

BlueberryCherry

ChocolateCoconut

Fruit PunchGrape

Green AppleLemon

LimeMangoOrange

Passion FruitPina Colada

Pink Cotton CandyRoot Beer

Rock and RollStrawberry

Tiger’s BloodTutti FruttiWatermelon

Blue RaspberryCherryLimeGrape

Green AppleWatermelon

Orange

FLAVORS

SUGAR FREE FLAVORS

BananaBlack Cherry

Blue Bubble GumBlue Raspberry

BlueberryCherry

ChocolateCoconut

Fruit PunchGrape

Green AppleLemon

LimeMangoOrange

Passion FruitPina Colada

Pink Cotton CandyRoot Beer

Rock and RollStrawberry

Tiger’s BloodTutti FruttiWatermelon

Blue RaspberryCherryLimeGrape

Green AppleWatermelon

Orange

MOLINO’S RAVIOLI

Molino’s Hot Food & CateringFor complete menu visit, www. molinosravioli.net

Regular Store Hours Mon- Sat 9am - 5:30pm • Sunday 10 - 52150 Pleasant Hill Road., 925.934.7075

• Call Ahead to Order or Just Walk In • In Business for Over 60 Years Serving Famous Beef, Chicken, Cheese, Butternut Squash, Vegetarian and Seafood Ravioli. Also Serving Homemade Gnocchi, Lasagna, Cannelloni and Soups and a Variety of Sauces

homemade ravioli since 1925MENTION

THIS AD

TO GET

$1.00 OFF

Get your RESTAURANT FEATURED in Community FocusCall 925-335-NEWS (6397) or email [email protected]


Pints for ProstatesBy Sachin Kamath MD

June is the month we celebrate the DADS in our lives; perhaps that is why June is also Men’s Health Month. The purpose of Men’s Health Month is to heighten the awareness of preventable health problems and encour-age early detection and the treatment of disease among men and boys. Pints for Prostates is a program aimed at creating awareness for men’s health. It was founded by Rick Lyke, a prostate cancer survivor diagnosed at a young age. He felt a deep desire to get the conversation going with friends about the importance of prostate cancer screening. He started with one-on-one conversations, usually while sharing a pint of beer. Rick’s passion led him to establish the ‘Pints for Prostates’ non-profit organization with the goal of rais-ing awareness and preventing prostate cancer.

On June 13, Diablo Valley Oncology and Pacific Urology will sponsor their annual ‘Pints for Prostates’ event at Pyramid Alehouse in Walnut Creek. The guest of honor and keynote speaker will be Rick Lyke!

A $20 donation Pints Package includes beer, beer glass, hors d’ouevres, and a raffle ticket. Space is limited. Reserve by calling 925-677-5041 About 1 man in 6 will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during his lifetime. This can be a serious disease, but most men diagnosed do not die from it. In fact, more than 2.5 million men in the United States who have been diagnosed with prostate cancer at some point are still alive today. Dr. Kamath is a Radiation On-cologist with Diablo Valley Oncology in Pleasant Hill. He can be reached at 925-825-8878.

SUMMER INTENSIVES:

Core Strength to take your game to the next level.

PAID ADVERTORIAL

Update on MDUSD’s Charter Waiver Request On May 9, the State Board of Educa-tion took up Mt. Diablo Unified School Dis-trict’s charter waiver request. As the law cur-rently stands, Clayton Valley Charter High School, as a conversion charter high school, is now entitled to an additional $1.74 mil-lion in revenue limit funding annually, and this money must come directly from the district’s general fund. Spread across the district’s five remaining, regular high schools,that amounts to an average funding reduction of about $340,000 per year for each school, including College Park High School. The waiver, if approved, would shift the burden of paying these funds from the district to the state. Superintendent Steven Lawrence, along with his associate general counsel and several parents and staff representing vari-ous high schools in MDUSD (including myself and fellow College Park parent Mary Gray), traveled to Sacramento to speak at the hearing. After a wait of over seven hours for the item to come up, the superintend-ent and counsel presented the district’s case while the rest of us testified as to the finan-cial impact this will have on the remain-der of the district, the inherent inequality it creates, and how this outcome was never the intent when the funding formula for conversion charters in unified districts was changed in 2010. The board members were, on the whole, both sympathetic and understanding of our position. However, it was the opin-ion of the State Board of Education staff that the board probably did not have the legal authority to grant the waiver because mak-ing such changes to funding allocations was

not in the scope of their mandate as a board. Of course, this is painfully ironic since the district argued precisely that to the County Board of Education at last fall’s charter ap-peal hearing in response to the charter ad-vocates’ (and the board’s own counsel’s) sug-gestion to obtain a waiver as a solution to the problem. The state board also expressed concern that granting the waiver would set a precedent and “open the floodgates” to such waiver requests in the future. In the end, the board voted 4-2 to deny the waiver; however, in order to deny a waiver, there must be enough votes as a per-centage of their quorum, and they needed five to deny it outright (they did not have all eleven board members present as there are three current openings on their board). This means that the waiver request is being held over until their next meeting in July. To be honest, the result was better than expected; I anticipated an outright denial. The fact that two members were open to granting the waiver is somewhat encourag-ing. By holding the request over, it allows the district time to marshal arguments as to why the board does, in fact, have the au-thority to grant the waiver and why, because MDUSD’s situation is unique, it would not create much of a precedent (very few, if any, other under-funded unified districts cre-ated a conversion charter high school since 2010). Whether the district’s effort in July will be successful or not, I don’t know. I do know that the district’s legal team has put in many hours and hard work on this, and that the superintendent and his staff deserve thanks from the community for pursuing this on behalf of our kids.-Matt Lovett, Pleasant Hill

So you know your IPA,but do you know your PSA?Join us for a cold one and get the facts on earlyPSA testing... It could save your life.Prostate Cancer. No Joke. Get Testedwww.ustoo.org/pints

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 13, 2012 - 6pm - 8pm‘PINTS FOR PROSTATES’ at PYRAMID ALEHOUSE

Pints Package $20 Donation includes beer, beer glass, heavy hors d’ouevres, and raffle ticket. ‘Pints for Prostates’ is a 501c non-profit.SPACE IS LIMITED - RSVP at 925.677.5041

Letter to the Editor

The Community Focus invites your comments and opinions. Letters should be no longer than 400 words and sub-mitted with first and last name.

Address and daytime telephone number required. All letters will be published at the editor’s discretion. The Focus reserves the right to edit submis-sions for length, clarity, possible libel and propriety or to refuse letters we feel contradict our mission.

E-mail letters for our community forum to: [email protected]

Letters to the Editor


THE GARDEN

As another school year draws near comple-tion, our garden work-ers at College Park High School are busy getting the summer/fall garden in, while cleaning up weeds and picking abundant, gloriously scented sweet peas that have laid claim to the garden with a vengeance. Tiny pepper, eggplant and tomato plants that the stu-dents started from seeds in the greenhouse are tenderly placed in holes with plant food and love in the hopes of bounty and a huge harvest for students returning in the fall. Our organic garden at College Park is tru-ly glorious. Sunflowers are blooming and taking up space wherever they can push through the soil, while strawberry plants bloom and thrive, holding the promise of sweet treats. We have picked so many har-vests of lettuce and arugula that we lost count months ago. For students return-ing in the fall, we will have a large crop of apples as well as a million grapes to munch on. Why is this garden such a thriver?

Our location in proximity to loads of sun throughout the day is one reason, but over the years, Stephanie Jacob and I, the garden stewards and educators, have learned about the importance of soil. Strong foundations are essential for successful building, and compost is probably one of the most im-portant parts of the foundation structure in a garden. Healthy soil, sun and regular wa-tering produce luscious crops. In your home gardens, a timed wa-tering system can make the difference be-tween an okay garden and an awesome crop-producing garden. Thinking that you are a fabulous waterer and can do it your-self is admirable, but even you take off for weekends or weeks in the summer and that neighbor kid, as wonderful as he is, will not do the job you do, and your garden will suffer for it. Even the time that you wa-ter matters to your little family of veggies. Regular times are important, and this year’s philosophy, from those in the know, is early morning watering is best. One reason is to prevent mold on tomatoes and other plants caused by watering too late and sending the

College Park Garden’s AbundanceBy Lesley Stiles

little babies to sleep with wet hair. Timed automatic watering also conserves greatly on water use. Don’t get me wrong here, I know it is therapeutic to stand there with the hose and ponder the day, but it ain’t helping your garden or the environment. For first timers or people like me who are not real handy, battery operated tim-ers are a revelation. Hook up some ½ inch tubing to your hose, and all you need to do is poke in the emitters and you’re done. Big garden – carefree summer – what’s not to like? If you are on campus or in the vicin-ity of CP, stopping by our garden will make you smile and lower your shoulders a little bit. We are entering peak season for amaz-

ing produce in our valley, and the farmers’ markets are loaded with the goods. Cur-rently, bowing farmer tables find cherries, asparagus, apricots, early peaches, early field tomatoes, fresh, astoundingly sweet onions with stalks attached and so much more. Get in tune with alfresco dining, moving into a more relaxing time of year and enjoying our wonderful communities while slowly devouring our gardens’ boun-ties. Don’t forget to breathe. Lesley Stiles is a graduate of the Cali-fornia Culinary Academy, sustainable ca-terer and school garden educator. Contact Lesley at [email protected], www.lesleystiles.blogspot.com and visit her new website: www.lesleystilesfoods.com.

Fatoush Salad

Lemon – Cumin Vinaigrette Toss all together in a large salad bowl with Lemon – Cumin Vinaigrette, recipe below

Whisk all together in a bowl and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.

1 head of romaine lettuce, washed and torn2 medium sized cucumbers, peeled, seeded and diced1 basket of cherry tomatoes cut in half1 small red onion, sliced into small half moons

½ bunch of fresh mint, chopped fine½ bunch fresh cilantro, chopped fine½ cup feta cheese, crumbled1 cup of pita chips½ cup pitted Kalamata olives chopped.

¼ cup of fresh lemon juice2 tablespoons of seasoned rice vinegar¾ cup of extra virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons of freshly toasted and ground cumin seed1 tablespoon of chopped fresh garlic

Ingredients:

Ingredients:

Directions:

Directions:

15C Vivian Dr Pleasant Hill, CA(Behind Jack in The Box)

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

shop for bargains, shop for foster children

Youth Homes Auxiliary Thrift Shop raises money in support of the

needs of young people in the care of Youth Homes, Inc.

SENIOR 5% DISCOUNT EVERYDAY

©

Marilee King, Executive DirectorAn experienced group facilitator with nearly 20 years of experience

working in groups with children, adults, teens and families.

Education & Healing Group ServicesAssisting People From All Walks of Life

We offer many programs including:Alcohol & Drug Treatment Recovery Programs

Children Affected by AddictionTeen Insight Groups for those using alcohol and/or drugs

(925) 231-5556 • 380 Civic Dr. Suite 200~H, Pleasant Hill, CA


When we think of how we can help wildlife, it can be daunting. There are species going extinct and many popula-tions in peril; how do we address the prob-lems facing wildlife around the world? One little voice seems hardly big enough to make a dent. But, we can make a big dent right here in our backyards and neighborhoods. The little things we do on a daily basis can have a big impact on the wild animals that share our space. Here are some simple things you can do today and tomorrow to help wildlife. • Keep your cat indoors, especially now when baby birds are learning to fly. If you find a fledgling bird (has feathers but can’t fly well) on the ground, leave it alone so the parents can continue to take care of it. Keep pets and people away from the baby. It usu-ally takes only a day or two before the baby bird is flying. • Don’t prune trees or bushes until fall. If you absolutely need to prune in summer,

look carefully for nests in trees and bushes before pruning. June is still prime nest-ing season for many birds (and squirrels, too) and some will still have nests as late as September.• Reduce or eliminate pesticide use. Let the birds have the aphids and other bugs that visit your plants.• Don’t use sticky traps, especially outdoors. Sticky mouse and rat traps are inhumane and they can trap innocent and beneficial animals such as snakes, lizards and birds. • If you have bird feeders, keep them clean to prevent the spread of disease. At least once a week, wash with soap and water, rinse well, soak in a 1:32 bleach solution for ten minutes, rinse and let dry before refill-ing with food.• If birds fly into a certain window frequent-ly, cover it with netting, hang yarn in front of it or let it get really dirty to take away the reflection. By taking simple steps, we can provide good, safe habitats for our wild neighbors. For more information about Lindsay Wildlife Museum and ways you can help wildlife, visit www.wildlife-museum.org.

Helping Our Wildlife By Susan Heckly, Lindsay Wildlife Museum

At Wild Times Summer Science Camp, your young naturalist will marvel, laugh and learn with new adventures every day—live animal

encounters, fun science experiments, games, stories and crafts.

Weekly half-day sessions for ages 4–12.

Learn more and register today at www.wildlife-museum.org

1931 F IRST AVENUE | WALNUT CREEK | 925 -935-1978

LOOK. TOUCH.

DISCOVER.

JENNIFER L. MARTIN, D.D.S.

Specialist in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics

401 GREGORY LANE, SUITE 126PLEASANT HILL, CA 94523

925.676.8485 FAX 925.676.0288www.drjennifermartin.com

MOVING & STORAGE

Family owned and operated since 1975.

Move A Little Move A Lot

Excellence • Experience • Efficiency

925-372-0914

Office & Light Industrial • SeniorsResidential• Storage & Warehousing

1029 Arnold Dr. Suite 9 Martinez, CA 94553

NEW PATIENTSPECIALS!

Most insurances accepted.

ask about our


Martinez Farmers’ Market Now through Oct. 25 - Thursdays, 10am-2pm Court St., between Main & Escobar St. Year Round - Sundays, 10am-2pm Main St. between Castro & Ferry St. Buy local produce and visit local shops and restaurants too!

Pleasant Hill Farmers’ Market Saturdays through November 17. 9am to 1pm. Down-town Pleasant Hill http://www.pcfma.com/

6/1 – Plaza Concert and Wine Walk 5:30-8:30pm Dowtown Pleasant Hill.

6/5 - Pleasant Hill Garden Study Club 7pmInterim Location: Camellia Room - Heather Farms, 1540 Marchbanks Dr., Walnut Creek. Speaker: Debi Tidd, “Pest Management without Pesticides.” Guests are welcome & free. Contact: 925-944-4898, Website: www.phgsc.com

6/13 Lindsay Wildlife Museum Summer Hours Begin - 10am until 5pm Wednesday through Friday, with Members-only hours from noon until 5pm on Tuesdays. Admis-sion is $7 adults; $6 seniors and students; $5 for children 2-17; free to members and chil-dren under 2. Along with Wild Times Sum-mer Science Camp, there are many classes, workshops and mini-camps available at the Lindsay Wildlife Museum this summer. For a complete listing of all the children’s programs see kids classes and camps on our website. www.wildlife-museum.org.

6/20 - The Society of American Magicians Assembly #112 meets the 3rd Wednesday of each month. We perform great magic and have loads of fun! Open to all! Round Table Pizza, 7pm, 2960 Treat Blvd., Concord, CA.Join us this month and learn magic! Infor-mation: Call Fred (925) 451-1292

6/23 - “Bark for Life” Special Event – 8am to 1pm. 100 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill City Hall. The event will be sponsored by the American Cancer Society. Approximately 20 to 30 dogs, and their owners, will conduct a non-competitive walk event to raise funds and awareness for cancer research and the fight against cancer.

6/24 - Contra Costa Humane Society Family Trail Hike Fundraiser. 9:30am to 12:30pm. Castle Rock Regional Park, Walnut Creek. First 50 registered adults (by

EVENTS

AT THE LIBRARY

Calendar

Pleasant HillTuesdays - Doorstep Farmers Pick Up. 5-7pm. Sign up with Doorstep Farmers, a local CSA, at www.doorstepfarmers.com. All subscribers will receive a 5% discount for choosing Pleasant Hill Library as their pick-up location.

Wednesdays - English Conversation Practice for Adults. 1:30-2:30pm. This ESL group meets weekly. Ages 18+.

Thursdays - Preschool Storytime. 11:15-11:45am. Ages 3-5.

Fridays - Mother Goose Storytime - 11:15-11:45pm & 1:15-1:45pm. Ages 0-3.

Fridays - Contra Costa Teen Chess Club. 3-5pm. Instruction, friendly matches, and tournaments. Interested in learning, improv-ing your game, and meeting local teens? All levels are welcome.

Saturdays - Saturday Story Time, Babies, Preschoolers, Kids. 11:15-11:45am.

6/7 - One-On-One Computer Tutor. 11am

mail or on-line) will receive a special goodie bag compliments of Big Dogs Sportswear, Whole Foods Lafayette, Rubio’s Pleasant Hill and more. Registration is $25 per adult 13 and up, $10 for 5 to 12 years old. Dogs are free and not required. Create a fundraising team, enter a pet contest, sample food from Rubio’s, win a raffle prize and bring a picnic for after. For more information and registra-tion go to www.cchumane.org or firstgiving.com.

Rodgers Ranch Round Up - Heritage Days 9am - 2pm, $35 per day. Ages 7 - 12Session 1: June 26– Feeding the FamilySession 2: June 28 – Garden and NatureSession 3: July 24 – Sing and PlaySession 4: July 26 – Job Day for the Kids315 Cortsen Rd. Pleasant Hill. Email [email protected], or call Denise Koroslev at (925) 387-0158. Space is limited.

6/28-7/21 - Willows Cabaret Theatre “Vaude-ville” The Campbell Theatre is located at 636 Ward Street in Downtown Martinez. www.willowstheatre.org. 925-798-1300.

Fridays on the Main June-August 6-8pm. Cars, Trucks, Bikes and Live Music! Free! Downtown Martinez.

&12pm. Tutors help new computer users with all the basics including email accounts, Microsoft Word and Internet searches. Call for appt. For adults. 925-646-6434.

6/7 - Wii for Teens 3pm-4:30pm. Play some board games too! Room A.

6/12 - PH Book Club 6:30pm-7:45pm, Let the Great World Spin, by Colum McCann.

6/13 - The PHUN Team, Pleasant Hill United Nerds Team. 3:30-5:00pm. Meet other teens and the young adult librarian to share and plan what you want to see happen at the library. Ages 13-18.

6/19 - Musical Performance, Celtic Sands 6:30-7:15pm.

Martinez:6/4 – Hunger Game Capitol Show 3:30pm.

Calling all tribute 10 and up to participate. Win prizes and help fight hunger in the real world. Bring one canned food item. Regis-ter: 925-646-9900. Grades 6th-12th.

6/11 – Peanuts: On the Go! 6:30 – 7:30pm. The library will turn into a hands-on art and science museum with fun, nature-related interactive exhibits. For K-8th.

6/12 - Book Discussion Group 6:45pm. Join us as we discuss The Unthinkable Thoughts of Jacob Green, by Joshua Braff, Adults.

6/19 – Shabang! Steel Drum Band 6:30-7:15pm

6/26 – Personal Finance Seminar. 6:30-7:30pm. “How Money Works” by Jeannie Schwass. Register: 925-646-9900.

Martinez Community Chorus Concert The Martinez Community Chorus will present their spring concert, “Dance Party,” on Tuesday, June 12 at 7:30pm in the Adult Education Campus Auditorium at Alham-bra and F Street. Admission is a requested $5 donation at the door. The concert includes many all-time favorite dance-able tunes from the 20’s to the 60’s. To further entertain the audience, several dance couples will be on hand to dance to the swing, two-step, tango, cha-cha, waltz, and polka. Audience members will have an opportunity to participate in some of the dances. Accompaniment for the chorus and dancers will include piano, string bass, guitar and percussion. The concert will also include a special musical presentation by the Devil Mountain Barbershop Chorus. Refreshments will be provided during intermission. Director Dee Wood has been with the chorus for the past ten years, but will be retiring from the position after this final concert.


PTA Reflections Winner

Teen Council

Blue Devils Family NightBy Gail Schultz

Summer Fun at the Public LibraryTEEN SCENE

Kids have some amazing ideas and the “Idea Box” is now up and running in the children’s area of the Pleasant Hill Library. Thanks to a grant from the state library, the innovative Idea Box is ready to collect kids’ ideas on what activities, events or programs they would like to see at the library. According to Patrick Remer, Children’s Librarian, “Kids can submit their ideas and place them into a crazy collection contraption and once the ideas are collected, they will go online where people can vote or rank each idea. Staff will work on which ideas we can actually fulfill. Taking big ideas and turning them into something real and tangible is what the idea box is all

about!” Go to ccclib.org/ideabox to pick your favorites! An educational summer option is the Discover and Go program. This county-wide program enables a library card holder to log on and print out free museum passes from over 30 destina-tions throughout the Bay Area. Library patrons can make reservations online by date or by venue and print out a pass. Patrons without Internet access can reserve a pass by telephone or in person and print out a pass at the library. You can have two active reservations at a time. This year’s Summer Reading Pro-gram for kids is “Dream Big”. Begin-

The Blue Devils will present their annual Family Day Performance on Saturday, June 16, at Diablo Valley College’s Viking Field. The program will start at 6:30pm, gates will open at 5pm, and tickets will be sold starting at 4pm at the stadium. Tickets are $10.00 and can also be purchased at www.bluedevils.org or by calling (925) 689-2918 X-0. Children 8 years and under are FREE. Appearing at the event are the following: 14-time World Cham-

pion Blue Devils “A” Drum & Bugle Corps; 3-time Open Class Champions Blue Devils “B” Drum & Bugle Corps; Blue Devils “C” Drum & Bugle Corps; a combined Horn Line presentation; a combined Drum Line presentation; Renegades Drum & Bugle Corps; guest appearance by the Santa Clara Van-guard Drum & Bugle Corps and Santa Clara Cadet Corps. Come and enjoy an evening of music and dance featuring the units of the Blue Devils Family!

College Park senior Hope Curran entered the photo below in this year’s PTA Reflections Program. Her photo went all the way to the state level and received an “Award of Merit.” The 2011-2012 theme was “Diversity Means...” and Curran took the perfect photo to match the theme. “The man was a very animated street performer and caught my attention. Crowds gathered around and I happened to take the photo when the family was in the background,” explained Curran.” Her photo is entitled: “Diversity is standing in awe of each other’s differences.” Curran’s interest in photography began at an early age: “Ever

since I could hold a disposable camera I have loved documenting time as it passes right in front of me.” Each year, the PTA Reflections Program challenges students to create art inspired by a specific theme, and students submit entries to a local PTA or PTSA. Nationally, the program has six arts areas and four grade divisions. Next year’s Reflections theme is “The Magic of a Moment.....” After graduation Curran will be attending UCSB as a Fine Arts major and swimming Division 1. More of her photos can be found on her Facebook page: facebook.com/hopecurranphoto. For more on the Reflections program, visit: www. ptareflections.org.

On Wednesday, May 9, the Pleasant Hill Recreation & Park District Board of Directors recognized the members of the 2011-2012 Pleasant Hill Teen Council. The Pleasant Hill Teen Council was estab-lished in February of 1991 and had 6 members. This year’s council was comprised of 20 middle school and high school students from various schools in Pleasant Hill. Members volunteered at many Pleasant Hill events throughout the year and focused their attention this year on the pro-gram ideas for the new Teen Center, scheduled to open in the fall at Pleasant Hill Park.

Back Row: Helena Strand, Matthew Cary, Jimmy Torres (Chair), Brandon Hutslar, Kevin Neys, Brad Thomp-son, Kara Lowry, and Sarah Chaney. Front Row: PHRPD Teen Supervisor Katrina Hunn, Kayla Brooks, Melissa

Torres, Monica Rodriguez, Rebecca Monroe, Breanna Singleton, Marissa St. Marseille, Jaime Pitcher, Bre-anna Klippel, and Genesis Cassidy. Not pictured: Hiroki Butterfield & TJ Tamura. Photo by Jennifer Neys.

ning on June 9, reading records will be available in community libraries or online. You can earn prizes for reading and several downtown Pleasant Hill businesses will be participating in the give-aways. The program is for kids

age 2 through 5th grade and continues through August 18. Finally, look for the “Hunger Games” theme party for teens this July. Check out the library website at www.ccclib.org for more information.


925-827-12001936 Linda Drive Pleasant Hill CA 94523

[email protected] • www.crsfbay.com

MENTION THIS AD &RECEIVE 10% OFFMENTION THIS AD &RECEIVE 10% OFF

10%OFF

LEADING EDGEPEST MANAGEMENT, INC

Lic. #PR6202

What’s buggin’ you?

Termite & Pest Control(925)689-2222 • (800)471-5555

www.LeadingEdgePM.com

Interior ReDesign / Paint color selectionRoom make-overs

Need a new room layout? New paint colors?We can help. 925-519-1196

QuickChangeDecorating.com

[email protected]

Armando Herrera, Owner

Lic.# 963759925-367-7905

Wood Revivers

Patrick Pardee Owner

Fence & Deck Weatherproofing& Kitchen Cabinet Restoration

925-680-2535

Established in 1990

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

Acupuncture WellnessAdvanced Hearing

Architectural Wood ProductsArmando’s

Artesa DentalAspire Pilates CenterBCI Cabinet Design

Best Western Plus John Muir InnBig Air Heating and Air Conditioning

Bryce Schumacher, J. RockcliffCalifornia Pacific Federal Credit Union

Camp ConcordCity of Pleasant Hill

Coldstone Creamery

Computer Sales and ServiceContra Costa Water District

Country WafflesDallimonti’s

Diablo Valley OncologyDowntown Pleasant Hill

Flaskerud- Re-MaxHagin’s Automotive

Hire My HusbandHitchcock Realty

Home Detailers HousekeepingJennifer L. Martin D.D.S.

John The Painter

Kobe JapanLe Jardin at the Spa

Les Schwab TiresLindsay Wildlife Museum

Main Street MartinezMartinez Chamber of Commerce

Matthew C. Rinn, State Farm InsuranceMinuteman PressMolino’s Ravioli

Moulding CompanyNavlet’s

Pacific Coast Farmers’ MarketParkway Smiles Dentistry

Payless Painting/Quick ChangePleasant Hill Grocery Outlet

Pleasant Hill Rec & ParkQuick Change Decorating

RB Investments, LLCRemnant Flooring

Samuels ConstructionSenior Helpers

Smokey D’sTod Gomes Photography

UPS – Virginia HillsVision Quest

Waters Moving and StorageYouth Homes Thrift Shop

THANK YOU ADVERTISERS!

6/30/12

Spring CleaningSpecial

BUSINESS SERVICE AD RATESAD SIZE 2.75 X 1.75

$75/ COLOR $60/BW PER MONTH3 MONTH MINIMUM CONTRACT

FOR INFO PLEASE CALL: 925.335.NEWS OR VISIT US AT:WWW.OURCOMMUNITYFOCUS.COM

June 2012

Documents

Transcript of June 2012