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District elections to change how council selected www.concordpioneer.com
TAMARA STEINER Concord Pioneer
Concord’s City Council election process is about to change – in a big way. Instead of vying for votes citywide, candidates will run by district. The Council passed the resolution at the Jan. 2 regular meeting. The switch
From the desk of...
January 26, 2018
may occur as early as this November, but certainly no later than 2020. The move is in response to a letter from Malibu attorney Kevin Shenkman, threatening to sue the city if it did not immediately adopt district elections in compliance with the California Voting Rights Act of 2001. The
CVRA says at-large elections are illegal when they discriminate against protected classes by “impairing their ability to elect their preferred candidates or otherwise influence the outcome of an election.” A protected class generally means members of a race, color or language minority group.
According to the 2010 census, Concord’s population of 122,067 is 50 percent white and 30 percent Latino. More than 25 percent of Concord’s population lives in the Monument district and more than half of those are Latino. But the last Latino elected from the Monument was Michael Chavez who
925.672.0500
died in 2007 after only a year in office. Current Councilmember Ron Leone is Latino but does not live in the Monument. Mayor Edi Birsan has long been an outspoken supporter of district elections, which he says “will force local leaders to emerge and engage.” Dividing Concord into dis-
MAYOR
Mayor’s laundry list for city improvements
The City Council has a yearly retreat, where we have an open discussion on things we want to do. For the last six years, I have repeatedly been told to bring up only three things. My response has always been: If you cannot think of 30-50 things to do, then why are you on the council? I strongly believe in the
See Mayor, page 8
See Elections, page 8
Blue Star Moms memorialize DLS grads TAMARA STEINER Concord Pioneer
EDI BIRSAN
tricts is complicated on many levels. The city has hired demographer Michael Wagaman to draw the maps. In a presentation at a public hearing on Jan. 16, he outlined the criteria for districts. There are four legal requirements.
Two former DeLaSalle students, both killed in action in Afghanistan were remembered in a memorial ceremony Jan. 9. Senior Airman Jonathan A. Vega Yelner, from Lafayette, and U.S. Army Capt. John L. Hallett III, a Concord native, were killed one year apart and will share space on a granite monument placed in the quad at their high school alma mater. The moving ceremony, sponsored by the Contra Costa Blue Star Moms Chapter 20 and attended by more than 100 friends and family members, opened with the posting of colors by Boy Scout Troop 243 and the National Anthem sung by Vega Yelner’s mother, Yolanda Vega. Vega Yelner was killed in action April 29, 2008, during his fourth tour of duty. He was 25. He was awarded the Purple Heart and a Bronze Star for his service in Afghanistan where he
had volunteered to provide support to rebuild infrastructure. Just 16 months later on Aug. 25, 2009, De La Salle lost another alumnus. Capt. Hallett
was killed when insurgents exploded an improvised explosive device under his vehicle. His widow, Lisa, who he met at St. Agnes Elementary School,
have been Shadow – a smiling, leggy mutt with a perpetually wagging tail. But on Dec. 29, while the Iannaccone family was in Tahoe for the holiday weekend, the happy dog was viciously
attacked, reportedly by a female pit bull, at the North Gate Kennel and Cattery in Walnut Creek. He and the other family dog, Max, were boarded there for the long weekend. The family dropped the dogs off at North
Gate on Dec. 29, planning to return for them on Jan. 2. On Sunday, Dec. 31, Liz Iannaccone received a phone call from Kristin, a kennel employee, telling her that Max had been in a fight the day before, Dec. 30. “She told us they had taken him to the vet, but he was ‘doing fine’ and to ‘enjoy our vacation.’” Liz asked to speak to the owner, but the employee said he wasn’t there and refused to supply any more information. And, in fact, the kennel stopped returning Liz’s calls. Liz became increasingly worried and the family cut their trip short. They got home about 6 p.m. on New Year’s Day, after the kennel was closed. When they arrived at the kennel early Tuesday, Liz and Alan found not Max, but a bleeding, shaking Shadow moaning in pain and terrified. “He was crying and shaking so hard, it was like convulsions,” Liz recalled. Shadow’s injuries were grave. His ear was nearly ripped off, and he was bleeding profusely from 18 puncture wounds on his head and back leg. Liz demanded to know why the employee had waited until Sunday to contact them. She repeatedly asked for the owner and to see the kennel where the attack happened. The employee refused. “They basically threw us out,” Liz said. “They didn’t even give us Shadow’s medications.”
Tamara Steiner/Concord Pioneer
The granite stone memorializing two DLS grads killed in action is engraved on both sides and can be seen from both the library and the quad.
and their three children, Jackson 12, Bryce, 10 and Heidi, 8, together with Yolanda Vega unveiled the monument at the end of the program.
The granite stone is fifth in a series placed by the Blue Star Moms at local high schools to honor graduates killed in combat during Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. Blue Star Moms Loretta Masnada and Carol Prell are the driving force behind the program which has placed monuments at Concord High School, Mt. Diablo High, Berean Christian and Ygnacio Valley. The $5000 cost of the granite markers is covered by donations from individuals and organizations. Ron Stevens, father of two Carondelet graduates, donated the full cost of the De La Salle monument. The next dedication will be at Clayton Valley Charter High on April 25 in memory of Army Maj. James M. Ahearn who was killed July 5, 2007 in Iraq. To donate to High Schools Memorials project or for more information, please visit the website www.ccbluestarmoms.org.
Dog owners file suit in vicious kennel attack TAMARA STEINER Concord Pioneer
Until three weeks ago, if you rang the doorbell at Liz and Alan Iannaccone’s Crystyl Ranch home, your greeter would likely
Concord artists bring passion to new exhibit LISA FULMER Arts Scene
Twenty members of the Concord Art Association are participating in their first group show at Main Street Arts in Martinez, aptly named “Passion” for the month of February. Juried by Gwenn Spratt and Pam McCauley, the show promises to deliver a bounty of beauty and inspiration. “We selected artists whose creativity exemplified passion for their subjects,” McCauley says. “Every stroke of my brush and palette knife carries the uncontrollable emotion of passion for me,” says Anamilena Ayala. The artist, who will be showing “Two Peppers” and “Forest,” began making art at an early age in Colombia –
Tamara Steiner/Concord Pioneer
Taking their works to Martinez for the CAA’s first juried art show are Jane Russell, Joani Share and Karen Thapa.
learning from her mother’s “incredibly crafty mind.” Ayala was excited to discover the artist community after moving to Concord. Janice Davis, who will dis-
play “Lobby in Vancouver” in the Martinez show, draws inspiration from light. “I can be mesmerized by the sun pouring onto colored floors
See Passion, page 3
Tamara Steiner/Concord Pioneer
Elizabeth Iannaccone checks on Shadow as he rests on his bed while recovering from his latest surgery.
Told there was a follow-up appointment scheduled, they left for Apollo Veterinary Hospital. They discovered the attack happened on Friday, Dec. 29, not Saturday, Dec. 30. They were told “the lady” who brought him in said he had been kenneled with his “sibling” and that the sibling attacked Shadow. “… They lied to us,” reads the vet’s comments. North Gate repeatedly refused to give the Iannacones or the vet any information on the attacking dog, including whether it was current on vaccinations. The Iannacones continued to try to reach Bill Rogers, North Gate’s owner. They left
messages all week, with no return call. In exasperation, she posted her story on Facebook. It went viral in a matter of minutes, with more than 23,000 views and 15,000 shares. Within a day, local and
See Shadow, page 3
Inside
Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Community . . . . . . . . . . .2
From the desk of . . . . . .8 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
Performing Arts . . . . . .16
COMMUNITY
Page 2
Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
In Brief...
Community Pool closed until April
Concord Community Pool at 3501 Cowell Rd. is closed until April for repairs to the pool deck. To track the progress of the project, visit the Capital Improvement Projects page on the City’s website at www.maps.cityofconcord.org/CIPMAP. Aquatics staff can suggest alternative facilities for lap swim, water exercise programs or swim lessons while the pool is closed. Contact Concord Community Pool at (925) 671-3480 or email swimconcord@ cityofconcord.org
Holiday program aids Afghan refugees
Dog Parks Closing
Concord’s two dog parks will be closed for several months for annual maintenance. Baldwin Dog Park at 2700 Parkside Circle will be closed from Feb. 2 to March 26. Newhall Dog Park at 1351 Newhall Parkway will be closed from March 26 to May 11. For more information, contact the City’s Park Maintenance Division, (925) 671-3444.
Grief Workshop
The Saint Bonaventure Catholic community will hold a six-week grief workshop starting Tue., Jan 30, 7:30-9 pm at the church, 5562 Clayton Rd., Concord. Healing the Heart offers a safe place to express grief and begin healing. The workshop is free, but registration is required by Jan. 23. For more info or to register, call Helene Billeci at 925-686-4870.
Jim Whitfield, left, presents gifts to Najib Ahmadi.
For the second year, Clayton Valley Village (CVV) and St. Bonaventure Church teamed up for an Adopt A Family program to give back to the community and bring a happy holiday to a local family. The Ahmadi family appreciated the wrapped gifts for each family member, as well as money from CVV. Jim Whitfield, past CVV president, delivered the trunk full of gifts to the family’s Concord home on Dec. 21, with help from CVV volunteer Fiona Hughes and Sandy Fogarty, a member of St. Bonaventure Church.
Family to Family Ministry and St. Bonaventure members began helping the Ahmadi family after their 2016 arrival as refugees from war-torn Afghanistan. Najib Ahmadi is now working as a security officer in San Francisco. His wife, Zainab, is taking English lessons at Diablo Valley College. “We are speechless for the many blessings shown to us and the help this provides to our family,” Najib said. “Our children are thriving. We have a baby on the way, and our family is very happy now. And even our 5-year-old now corrects my English.”
January 26, 2018
Local weather woman back on West Coast
Meteorologist Gina De Vecchio has spent her career in TV on the East Coast where she got to forecast and report on all manner of weather conditions at stations in Maryland, Arkansas and North Carolina. After graduating from San Jose State she sent out 100 audition tapes from her internship with NBC Bay Area. She landed a job in Maryland and thus achieved her goal of experiencing a variety of weather including hurricanes, tornadoes and snow. “People on the East Coast are much more interested in the weather,” she told the Pioneer then. Now the pull of returning to her local roots and family have landed her a position back in Northern California with KSBW Action News 8 covering the Central Coast of Monterey,
Photo courtesy Central Coast ABC
GINA DE VECCHIO
Santa Cruz and Salinas. KSBW is a sister station of her previous stop at WXII in Winston Salem, NC. “I missed my friends and family. My parents are still in Clayton and my sister is down in
San Luis Obispo County so I am about halfway between them and I couldn’t be happier!” De Vecchio adds, “I’m living in Santa Cruz, which is way more enjoyable this time of year than North Carolina.”
Eric Maldonado honored by Delta Project
Eric Maldonado was recog- DeSaulnier, as the Men of to the community in a celebranized along with 16 other men, Merit – Class of 2018 by the tion on Jan. 18 at the Pittsburg including Congressman Mark Delta Project for contributing Youth Development Center. Delta Project is a subcommittee of STAND! For Families Free of Violence. Maldonado is the community and government relations officer at Travis Credit Union and board member of STAND! Maldonado, through his leadership, is committed to serving and speaking out for victims of family violence. “At a very early age, my mother taught me about respecting others, especially elders and women,” he says. “I challenge Rhonda James, chief executive officer of STAND!, celeyou to join me in the fight to brates with Men of Merit award recipient Eric Maldonado stop domestic violence.” and his wife, Claudia, and daughter, Hope.
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January 26, 2018
Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
Police extend outreach with Mexican Consulate
Lt. James Nakayama, Sgt. Kristen Thoms, Consulate Gemi Jose Gonzalez, Chief Guy Swanger and Captain Bill Roche.
Concord police and the Mexican Consulate are building a partnership with the goal of enhancing outreach to Concord’s Hispanic community. A group of five from Concord Police Department, headed by Capt. Bill Roche, traveled to San Francisco in December to meet with the Mexican diplomats. They discussed ways they can work together to expand the department’s efforts to eradicate
domestic violence, prevent drunk driving, bring awareness about texting and talking while driving and child safety seat measures, as well as improving disaster preparedness. The department already works with many agencies, such as the Monument Crisis Center and the Family Justice Center, to reach out to the community. The new partnership will likely include community fairs, small
meetings with community leaders, radio and media communications, public service announcements, advertisements and fliers. The groups will put the plans in place over the coming year. “Working together with the consulate provides an opportunity for shared knowledge, mutual respect and working together for a common goal, which is to keep all Concord citizens safe,” Roche said. “The consulate is an impressive organization. They offer a lot of services. We can learn from them, and they have personnel that will come out to Concord to help us with outreach.” By educating the community and building trust between law enforcement and all residents regardless of their immigration status, Concord police hope to see a decrease in crime and a safer community for all. – Kara Navolio
Helix Award honors tree worker
Ron Nelson, a Tree Lead Worker in the Parks and Maintenance Division, received the Daniel C. Helix Award of Excellence at the Jan. 2 meeting of the City Council. Nelson, a 33-year employee, was nominated by his peers for his leadership, hard work and dedication. “Ron is one of just two people responsible for our urban forest, which consists of more than 16,000 cityowned trees.” said Pub Works Director, Justin Ezell. He is frequently called out in the middle of the night to pick up a fallen tree.
The city has been named a a row and received the Tree Tree City USA for 36 years in City Growth Award.
From left: Public Works Director Justin Ezell, council members Carlyn Obringer and Tim McGallian, Mayor Edi Birsan, Ron Nelson and council members Laura Hoffmeister and Ron Leone.
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Shadow, from page 1
national media picked up the story. Public pressure had no effect on Rogers. He still refused to return calls or speak to the media. Meanwhile, Shadow was not getting better. He was still moaning and his wounds were beginning to fester. They took him to their own vet in Walnut Creek, who said the injuries indicated Shadow was attacked and was not the aggressor. “He said Shadow’s wounds were all
defensive,” Liz said. He referred them to a specialist at Sage Veterinary Hospital for another surgery. Shadow is recovering slowly. His wounds are healing, and he no longer growls when approached. The pain medications keep him slightly sedated. It isn’t clear if his hearing or eyesight are permanently damaged. With the mounting vet bills and continued silence from Rogers, the Iannacones over-
Passion, from page 1
and walls of glass,” says Davis. Mary Frances Crabtree agrees. “Light emerges from darkness, and a story emerges as well,” she says. Cathy McNutt strives to celebrate the ordinary in works like “Martinez Farmers Market.” “I feel really connected to each subject as I conceptualize and put paint to canvas,” the artist says. In “Girl in Andes” and “Pastoral Peace,” Lou Ann Styles also opts for the simple things: “subjects like a country scene with an old barn, or a young girl discovering all the surprises in nature and the joy it brings.” Meanwhile, Hillman highlights Italy in “Afternoon in Spello” and “Amalfi.” “The feeling of ‘being there’ comes back vividly while working on paintings of places I’ve been,” she shares. Mosaic artist Jane Russell is experimenting with new ways to express herself. “The movement in my glass mosaic reflects my desire to continue my journey as an artist,” says Russell, who will bring her appropriately titled “Jour-
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Page 3 came their reluctance to sue and contacted Pittsburg attorney LoriAnn Owens. The complaint filed in Contra Costa Superior Court on Jan. 19 charges North Gate Kennel owners, William and Laura Rogers and Doris Bower, which was operating without a valid business license, with negligence, fraud, breach of contract, unfair business practices and the “intentional infliction of emotional distress.” “If they had just done the right thing …” Liz said, her voice trailing off as she snuggled with a sleepy Shadow. they are garden decorations,” Husslein reflects. Yumiko Nishizawa and Pat Calabro see their artwork as a process. Nishizawa calls her paintings “watercolor splashed on paper which gradually becomes a garden of plants and flowers.” Calabro isn’t worried if creations such as “Untitled Abstract” aren’t perfect. “Some may not understand it, but others will see what I see – and that’s enough.”
ney” to the show. All the artists certainly do display passion while talking about their work. Karen Baden Thapa describes herself as “obsessed” with incorporating printmaking into multi-media work, while Joani Share is passionate about “creating figures that are not explicit to race, gender, color or ethnicity.” Carol Husslein has “Passion” runs through Februbecome “entranced” by statary at Main Street Arts, 613 Main ues of Buddha. “I think St., Martinez. An artists’ reception about how many had once will be 2-5 p.m. Saturday, Feb .3. worshiped them, and now
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Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
DeSaulnier launches reelection campaign JOHN T. MILLER Correspondent
Rep. Mark DeSaulnier, DConcord, kicked off his drive for reelection with a visit to Concord earlier this month for a fundraiser at the Plumbers and Steamfitters Local 342 Hall. Local constituent Velma Wilson sang the national anthem and Jim Kellog, a retired International Representative of the United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipe Fitting Industry, welcomed the crowd. John Goia, representing West Contra Costa County on the Board of Supervisors, and state Superintendent of Public Education Tom Torlakson both
spoke on DeSaulnier’s behalf. More than 150 enthusiastic supporters came to the event, including Concord Mayor Edi Birsan, and City Council members Ron Leone, Carlyn Obringer and Laura Hoffmeister. The event raised about $9,000. “The nice part about this event is that they welcomed people who could donate smaller amounts, like $25-$50, making it more accessible for dedicated constituents who are members of the working class,” noted community activist Carol Longshore. While the event featured DeSaulnier’s bid for reelection, the broader message was for supporters to work across the nation to win back Democratic
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control of the Senate and House of Representatives. DeSaulnier addressed issues of labor, contract workers, the deficit, climate change, health care and immigration. After spending so much time in the Republican-controlled Congress, he responded to the applause he received for his
views by saying: “This is like therapy for me.” DeSaulnier warned that money and politics are the big problems in our federal government, noting there are “millions of dollars of corporate money at stake for Republicans to vote the conservative agenda.” Calling President Trump
“the demon in office,” DeSaulnier also quoted Ulysses S. Grant. “In a battle, there are times when either side believes they have lost. The side that keeps attacking will prevail. That is my message: We must keep attacking.” DeSaulnier began his political career on the Concord City
Council and as mayor of Concord before moving to the county Board of Supervisors, the state Assembly and the state Senate. He is currently seeking reelection in California’s 11th Congressional District, which includes the western, central and southern areas of Contra Costa County.
The Contra Costa County Elections Division is kicking off the year with its second biannual photo contest. The grand prize winner will be featured on the cover of the November 2018 Voter Information Guide, which goes out to more than 600,000 registered voters in the county. The contest theme is “Service in Contra Costa County,”
and submissions are due by midnight Feb. 28. The photos must be submitted digitally along with a description of no more than 75 words. They should be sent in tiff or jpeg format. There is no entry fee. Past covers have featured photos highlighting beautiful sights and history throughout the county. First, second and third place winners will also have their photos featured on
the elections website, in the office lobby and in other elections publications. Previous contest winner Nat Rojanasathira of Martinez hopes his photo capturing civic life in Danville inspires others to participate in the voting process. “Voting is not just a right and a privilege, but our duty as Americans,” Rojanasathira said. “I am honored to share
a snapshot of civic life that will be featured in the Contra Costa Voter Information Guide.” The Elections Division held the first photo contest in 2016, receiving almost 50 entries.
Eye clinic patients in Zimba, Zambia, will receive better care in upgraded facilities due to $64,000 in grant funding secured by the Clayton Valley/Concord Sunrise (CVCS) Rotary Club. The International Vision Volunteer (IVV) Zimba Eye Clinic is the only such facility in the area. It provides treatment and care to restore sight so patients can be self-sufficient, productive members of
their communities. Antioch ophthalmologist Dr. Bud Tysinger established the clinic in 1996, and it has been a long-term project of CVCS Rotary. IVV treats more than 2,500 patients per year for eye injuries, disease and preventive care. Typical cases include corneal and conjunctival diseases, cataracts, glaucoma and refractive errors. The grant paid for diagnostic and treatment equipment such as opthamaloscopes, a tonopen to measure intraocular pressure to diagnose and treat glaucoma, surgical instrument packs, 2,500 units of eye medicines and oxygen supplies for surgery. Facility systems upgrades include air conditioners, computers, a new water system with a 250-foot deep well and 5,000-gallon storage tank, a new electrical system, a diesel generator and Internet service to enhance medical consultation and communications. Surgical teams from IVV and other volunteers from the United States and Canada make several two-week visits per year to treat patients in Zimba, which is about 60 miles from Livingstone and Victoria Falls. Patients travel as far as 250 miles to receive treatment, camping on the grounds awaiting the team’s arrival. In one 2017 visits, doctors treated 554 patients and performed 106 surgeries and other procedures.
Elections office holds photo contest
More information, including photo submission forms, is available at www.cocovote.us.
Clayton/Concord Rotary aids Zambia eye clinic with $64,000 grant
Dr. Robert Grosserode, left, a founding member of the IVV Clinic, stands with two cataract surgery patients and a local surgery assistant in Zimba.
Fred Nelson of CVCS Rotary recalls his experience at the clinic. “After cataract surgery, the patients return the next morning to have their bandage removed. Shouting joyfully, this elderly patient yelled: ‘I can see! I can take care of my goats.’ For the first time, he was able to take care of his own farm rather than depend on neighbors,” Nelson said. Rotary members Dr. Chris Ruzicka, D.O., Larry Hutchings and Nelson manage the grant funding, while members of the Livingstone, Zambia, Rotary Club and IVV staff handle the purchase and installation of equipment in Zimba.
CVCS Rotary provided the primary funding for the grant. Additional support came from Rotary Clubs of Pleasant Hill, Antioch, Danville-Sycamore and Findlay, Ohio. Rotary District 5160 and the Rotary Foundation matched the support funding, resulting in the $64,000 grant. Little to no government assistance for the clinic is available in Zambia, and it is sustained by a donor base that includes Rotary Club members and volunteer physicians. With new equipment, reliable electrical power and its own water system, the clinic can increase the number of patients served.
January 26, 2018
Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
Page 5
Think pink when biting into a Cara Cara orange DEBRA MORRIS Pacific Coast Farmers Market
You and your kids will love Cara Cara oranges, not just because they’re sweet and juicy – but because of their beautiful, pinkish-orange flesh. Their remarkable flavor sets them apart from navel oranges. Cara Caras have a mild, sweet, almost berry-like flavor. Best of all, they’re seedless. You’ll want to stock up because they’ll disappear quickly. The varietal is believed to have developed accidentally. They were discovered at the Hacienda de Cara Cara in Venezuela in 1976, but their origin is still unclear. They are a cross between the Washington navel and the Brazilian Bahia navel. The fruit did not enter the U.S. market until the late 1980s, and only specialty markets carried them for many years. Now you can get them directly from local
We specialize in educating you to improve and maintain your wellness farmers at farmers markets. Stop by Diaz Farms of Fowler at the Concord Farmers Market and fill your bag with this delicious winter fruit. These low-acid oranges work well in salads and marinades, or just eaten out of hand. They make a great fruit salsa, vinaigrette or fresh squeezed juice. Since it is also crab season, be sure to try a little fresh Cara Cara juice on your crab.
As with all citrus, look for oranges that are firm and heavy for their size. Avoid fruit that has soft spots or blemishes.
CITRUS SALAD WITH AVOCADO AND ONION 2 Cara Cara oranges, peeled, sectioned 1 avocado, peeled, cut in chunks or slices ½ red onion, sliced thin 1 bunch fresh salad greens, washed, dried VINAIGRETTE 1 small clove garlic, finely chopped 2 T sherry vinegar 1 tsp. Dijon mustard Pinch of salt 1/4 c. extra-virgin olive oil
Rosandich
Divide greens on two plates and add oranges, avocado and onion. Mix vinaigrette ingredients and drizzle over salads.
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The Concord Farmers Market is in Todos Santos Plaza Tuesdays & Thursdays.
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Page 6
Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
January 26, 2018
City seeks funding solutions to meet shortfall JOHN T. MILLER Correspondent
In response to a financial forecast presented to the City Council last year, the city of Concord has begun work on a Fiscal Stability Plan to meet long-range financial and investment needs. Earlier this month, the council received a staff report that identified $14.53 million in investment needs for fiscal year 2026-’27. This assumes the expiration of Measure Q, a half-cent sales and use tax voters approved in 2010. An extension ratified
in 2014 expires on March 31, 2025. Without additional funding, the city’s infrastructure will continue to deteriorate and contribute to growing financial challenges. A January 2014 presentation by city department heads detailed how the infrastructure maintenance backlog and long-term post-employment liabilities would cost about $10.5 million annually. This month’s staff report reassessed the current state of unfunded personnel liabilities, deferred maintenance and equipment replacement.
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Budget officer Donna Lee concluded the report for the council with an overview of furniture and equipment replacement needs. A significant amount of furniture and equipment is in need of replacement over the next 3-5 years. The city needs $200,000 a year for three years and $100,000 per year after that for public facilities such as the Concord Community Pool, the Senior Center and Centre Concord. Public safety equipment, which includes all safety equipment for police officers, would require a net increase of $360,000 a year on a four-year average. The council will discuss the plan at the Feb. 6 and 24 meetings.
JOHN T. MILLER Correspondent
Cerrito, Hercules, Lafayette, Martinez, Pittsburg, Richmond and Walnut Creek. Four of these cities share a boundary with Concord. Last July, Concord Councilwoman Carlyn Obringer asked the council to research the feasibility of a polystyrene ban. They referred the matter to the Council Committee on Policy Development & Internal Operations (PD&IO) for consideration. In October, the committee directed the staff to research several areas, including identifying which products were banned or excluded from the ban in nearby cities, requesting product information from schools and hospitals about current polystyrene uses, meeting with the Chamber of Commerce to obtain input and provide them with preliminary information, and discussing the matter with Mount Diablo Resource Recovery (MDRR). As a result, PD&IO found few obstacles to a ban on polystyrene. A majority of the schools and John Muir Hospital have already transitioned to alternative materials. While some local businesses expressed concern about a proposed timeframe to use up
project, along with some state-mandated issues and other projects. The fiscal impact would be limited primarily to staff time, with the hope that partnering with environmental groups and volunteers could minimize the impact on staff and assist in communication with food service businesses. During public input, Concord resident Jeff Koertzen spoke in favor of the ban. “Polystyrene breaks down into tiny pieces that birds and marine life mistake for food. This is poisonous to many of these species,” he said. “It also is a large part of the Great Pacific Garbage Patch.” In an informal survey of restaurants bordering Todos Santos Plaza, less than a handful still use Styrofoam cups and bowls and limited use of to-go containers. For the most part, they use other hard plastics – some of which are not readily recyclable. Other restaurants opt for cardboard containers. Guillermo Garcia of Charley’s Corn and Son said that most Farmers Market vendors use some form of plastic or aluminum and stay away from Styrofoam.
existing supplies, staff currently anticipates a six-month grace period once the ban is enacted. MDRR encouraged the city to pursue this effort, as it will help meet the state’s waste diversion requirements. In 2011, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services put styrene on the list of anticipated human carcinogens. It can leach into food and drinks and is known to cause lung tumors in mice during lab trials. According to a fact sheet prepared by the Contra Costa County Climate Leaders (4CL), polystyrene can take up to 500 years to decompose. It has no feasible recycling scheme and can fill up to 25 percent of the world’s landfills. It can also harm birds and marine life when ingested and is the second most abundant beach debris. Gonzalez’s report states that work on the ban would not begin until late 2018 or early 2019, due to the Long Range Planning Division’s high volume of work and constrained resources. Current council priorities include developing cannabis regulations, working on election districts, supporting the Naval Weapons Station Reuse
MSPs are crucial for today’s computer users
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Many people don’t realize that Managed Service Providers (MSPs) are a means to keep you, your computers and networks running smoothly. I toss the computer geek phrase around quite a bit, but I recently realized it took me years to really understand its meaning. However, I expected readers to pick it up without
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tion of a pavement section on a scale of 0-100, the city’s current three-year average PCI is 60. That’s at the bottom end of the good/fair range. Any more deterioration, and the roads will fall into the at-risk category. The cost to maintain roads at the current three-year PCI ROAD MAINTENANCE average of 60 is $17 million a According to city engineer year. Robert Ovadia, street maintenance continues to be the PARKS AND EQUIPMENT While the city has made siglargest unfunded need. Although the city has increased nificant strides to address its investment in road mainte- deferred maintenance needs in nance since 2014, primarily parks, facilities and street signs, with the help of Measure Q, it Public Works director Justin has not been able to meet the Ezell pointed out there is an unfunded need of about $2.4 entire need. Using a Pavement Condi- million per year to bring these tion Index (PCI), which features into satisfactory conmeasures the general condi- dition over the next 10 years.
As part of Concord’s Citywide Action Plan (CAP), the City Council is close to making a decision on banning Styrofoam to help increase solid waste diversion from the landfill to a minimum of 75 percent. At a meeting earlier this month, assistant planner Jessica Gonzalez presented a staff report offering direction on the development of the ban. She clarified that it should be limited to to-go containers provided at food service locations. Styrofoam is the common trade name for polystyrene, a lightweight petroleum-based plastic. It is commonly used in single-use disposable products. Since 2008, a variety of statewide legislative attempts to ban its use have failed. Individual jurisdictions, however, have enacted local bans. Berkeley was one of the first to prohibit restaurant use of polystyrene in 1990, with close to 100 California cities adopting similar ordinances – mostly in food service settings for take-out containers. Seven Contra Costa County cities currently ban polystyrene: El
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toward unfunded liabilities. In 2016, the city and its employee associations agreed to changes in the Post Employment Healthcare Plan that resulted in decreased benefits and a $16 million reduction in the plan’s unfunded liability.
Concord considers Styrofoam ban
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PERSONNEL LIABILITIES Karen Reid, the city’s director of finance, discussed personnel liabilities – including pensions, retiree medical and accrued leaves benefits. Funding these long-term liabilities is a priority for the council, and they have addressed these costs in a number of ways: setting aside $17.5 million for retiree medical funding; reducing costs of employee benefits, including reducing retiree health benefits for new hires and capping the benefit for existing retirees and employees; incorporating full funding for pension and retiree medical into the city’s operating budget; and adopting the Fiscal Sustainability Ordinance using one-time and budget residual funds
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much explanation. My bad. The MSP concept is easy if you approach it from a human familiarity slant rather than from a geek point of view. In a nutshell, it means someone is there to help you when you need it – automatically. MSP is a watchdog guarding the usage of your computer. It’s not a nanny watching every decision, but rather an enforcer. This enforcer is making sure the things you want done are completed, while blocking the things that cause harm. This is a way to enforce the rules, keep virus and ransomware out, make sure your computer software is up to date, warn you about impending failure and assist with day to day chores like keeping the printer working. According to Wikipedia, “Managed services is the practice of outsourcing on a proactive basis management responsibilities and functions and a strategic method for improving operations and cutting expenses. It appears as an alternative to the break/fix or on-demand outsourcing model where the service provider performs on-demand services and bills
WILL CLANEY
TECH TALK
the customer only for the work done. “Under this subscription model, the client or customer is the entity that owns or has direct oversight of the organization or system being managed whereas the managed services provider (MSP) is the service provider delivering the managed services. The client and the MSP are bound by a contractual, service-level agreement that states the performance and quality metrics of their relationship.” Few people have time to do all of this for themselves, which is precisely the reason you need MSP help. It frees up your time when someone does these everyday jobs for you. Computers fail – frequent-
ly. Forty percent of computers will fail in the first 18 months of operation due to crazy software glitches, infections, user error and hardware failures. Having an instant helper fixes problems the moment they appear. As computers get more complicated, fewer people know how to fix them. That leads to escalating repair costs due to a shortage of qualified technicians. The solution is not to allow failures in the first place, thus MSPs. From the MSP point of view, it is much less expensive to catch an issue early. Personal visits are expensive, so MSPs operate “remotely” over the Internet. One tech can work on several computers at once, thereby spreading the cost of expensive technicians over a larger user base. I’m sure I didn’t answer all your questions, so call an MSP today. Compare prices and services and gain understanding before … fade to black.
William Claney is an independent tech writer and former owner of Computers USA in the Clayton Station. Email questions or comments to willclaney@gmail.com.
January 26, 2018 Sponsored Content
By Christine Chung
Mr. R is a 58-year-old man with a history of recurrent basal cell carcinoma. In 2013, a dermatologist treated skin cancer on the right side of his nose by shaving off layers of skin in what is called Mohs surgery. Three years later, Mr. R developed a basal cell carcinoma on the left side of his nose and got treated with radiation therapy. Recently, he noticed a new rough, red spot on the left side of his nose. While concerned that it might be cancer, he immediately
Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
Looking for non-invasive tests for skin cancer
thought something many people can identify with: Is there a way to diagnose skin cancer without cutting off a piece of skin? Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) of the skin is one of the most common malignancies diagnosed in the United States, with more than 4 million new cases each year. The lesions occur most frequently on sun-exposed skin in Caucasians, and people who have a history of BCC are at a higher risk of developing future lesions. BCC is associated with exposure to ultraviolet light from the sun, tanning beds, therapeutic radiation or immunosuppression. It also occurs more often in men over 40. Basal cell carcinoma may be diagnosed by a doctor during a clinical
examination, but it is usually confirmed by a skin biopsy. Doctors perform shave biopsies or punch biopsies, or they remove lesions surgically for diagnosis. Researchers are developing less-invasive methods for diagnosing skin cancers – such as DermTech’s Pigmented Lesion Assay, or PLA. This test uses a sticky adhesive patch (similar to Scotch tape) to gather skin cells from a lesion. Experts then analyze the sample for specific RNA molecules to diagnose melanoma, with a reported false positive rate of less than 1 percent. While this test is only available for the detection of melanoma, the company is developing a similar test for other skin cancers. Initial studies of this method showed promising results in
identifying primary basal cell carcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas. This would mean that instead of undergoing a procedure with a scalpel, a doctor could make a diagnosis without incisions. For now, biopsies remain the best method for diagnosing skin cancers. In the future, genetic tests may allow doctors to diagnose skin cancer without scalpels or stitches.
Chung is a board certified radiation oncologist with Diablo Valley Oncology & Hematology Medical Group in Pleasant Hill. She has a special interest in treating skin and breast cancer. Chung sees patients in Pleasant Hill and Berkeley. For more information, call 925-677-5041.
Tips for getting ready for tax filing Q: What kinds of changes do I need to know about with the 2018 tax reform? A: This is a complicated issue. The new rules are vague in many areas, and Congress is attempting to clarify the regulations. Therefore, I will need to address this issue at a later time. Q: Are federal income taxes deductible? A: There is no current deduction for federal income taxes, except for a few states that allow taxpayers to subtract the value of the federal income taxes they pay in a given year from their state taxable income. California does not allow this deduction. Q: Are state income taxes deductible on 2017 return? A: Yes, California state income taxes are deductible on the federal return. However, this deduction goes on Schedule A – which is where all itemized deductions are input. The
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total of Schedule A deductions must be greater than the standard deduction.
Q: What kinds of deductions go onto Schedule A? A: The main deductions are property taxes (on all houses owned, except for rentals which go onto a different schedule), mortgage interest on the primary residence and one second home only, charitable donations and sales taxes on large purchases or state income taxes paid in that tax year, whichever is higher. In addition, there would be
miscellaneous deductions such as unreimbursed employee expenses, tax prep fees and investment fees. However, these miscellaneous deductions are only deductible on amounts over 2 percent of your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI), so it is always better to have your employer reimburse you for expenses paid on the company’s behalf. Q: Can I deduct medical expenses on my taxes? A: Yes, you can. However, these expenses also go onto Schedule A and there are limits to how much you can deduct. People over 65 can deduct the amounts over 7.5 percent of their AGI. Those under 65 can only deduct the amounts over 10 percent of their AGI.
Q: How do you calculate AGI? A: This gets complicated. To simplify as much as possible, this is the total of all of your income – less any deductions for health savings
accounts, moving expenses, qualified IRA/401K/SEP IRAs self-employed health insurance, alimony and student loan interest. The end result is your AGI.
Q: What are the standard deductions for single, married filing separately, married filing jointly (MFJ) and head of household (HOH)? A: The standard deductions are: single or married filing separately, $6,350; MFJ, $12,700; HOH, $9,350. HOH is when you support a dependent. In addition to the standard deduction, each person has an exemption of $4,050. However, this exemption goes away in 2018. Stay tuned for more tax tips in February. Bayer, CRTP, is a principal in Bayer and Associates, 2280 Diamond Blvd., Suite 340, Concord. Email your questions and comments to bayerisher@gmail.com or call 925-356-5645.
Small collections take center stage at museum
Clayton Museum curator, Renee Wing assembled the exhibit which opens Feb. 2, displaying small collections of artifacts reflecting Clayton history.
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The Clayton Historical Society and Museum exhibit “A Collection of Small Collections” features 12 groups of artifacts and archival materials relevant to life in the Clayton Valley. It includes mortars and pestles, fragments of old bottles and pottery shards, photos of downtown historical buildings and spectacular local wildlife as well as pioneering family portraits. These items enrich the body of knowledge about Clayton and its former and current inhabitants.
The exhibit presents items not of great monetary value, but rather modest mementos of historical, cultural and sentimental value. These are simple artifacts of everyday life. An opening reception will take place 5-7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 2. Light refreshments will be served at the free event. The museum is at 6101 Main St., Clayton
For more information, call the Clayton Museum at 925-6720240 or Renee Wing at 925-2120940.
Page 7
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Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
January 26, 2018
Daily record data F r o m t h e d e s k o f . . . can be misleading
WOODY WHITLATCH WEATHER WORDS
Meteorologists often use statistics to describe temperature conditions. Normal and record-breaking events are defined by analyzing long-term weather data records. Although the National Climatic Data Center (NCDC) has established standards for determining climate normals, the interpretation of these statistics is sometimes misleading. Continuous daily weather records are a relatively new phenomenon. In the late 19th century, the U.S. Congress established a federal Weather Bureau. That legislation mandated the new organization to “establish and record the climatic conditions of the United States.” By the middle of the 20th century, nearly 5,000 weather stations located in cities, military bases and airports were recording daily data, but there was no established practice of determining normal conditions. Shortly after World War II, the United Nations World Meteorological Organization (WMO) recommended using a continuous 30-year period from which to calculate climatic conditions, with the end of the third decade as the final point of the data base. A 30year period was chosen because it was deemed long enough to dampen out extreme short-term variations, but not so long as to disguise changes over time. The first U.S. Weather Bureau climate normals publication using WMO guidelines covered 1921-1950. The latest report covers 1981-2010. Climate reports include monthly as well as daily maximum and minimum temperatures for each station. Calculation of the monthly temperature normal
for a station is straightforward, simply a sum of all the records for each month over the 30year period divided by the number of observations. Daily normals, however, are not calculated as the average of each day for 30 years. The relatively small sample size of daily values would result in a sawtooth timeline of temperatures. Instead, statisticians developed a data interpolation scheme, called a cubic spline, which produces a smoothed daily curve from the reported data. Extreme daily temperature records are widely quoted during heat waves and cold spells. These so-called “records for the date” rely on the entire period of record for a station and are not subject to the 30-year rule used to calculate daily and monthly normals. Daily temperature records can be misleading. One issue is that each station has a different period of record. For example, temperature records began in San Francisco in the 1870s. Continuous records in Concord started in the 1970s. A more important concern is that the history of temperature at any station on one particular calendar day has marginal statistical value, even at stations with a long period of record. An extreme example of this can be found in the San Francisco temperature database. Since 1870, the highest temperature recorded in San Francisco on Aug. 31 was 87. The alltime record for the very next day, Sept. 1, is 106. Imagine a heat wave in San Francisco that produces consecutive days of 100 degrees on Aug. 31 and Sept. 1. The first occurrence would exceed the all-time record by 13 degrees yet be 6 degrees below the record the next day. Monthly and daily temperature statistics for National Weather Service stations are highly reliable data. But we must be aware that “official” normals change every decade. Daily extreme records, while interesting, can be misleading. Woody Whitlatch is a meteorologist retired from PG&E. Email your questions or comments to clayton_909@yahoo.com
Elections, from page 1
• Each district must have a nearly equal population. • Each district must comply with the Federal Voting Rights Act and avoid gerrymandering • Districts cannot use race as the predominant factor in establishing boundaries • Districts must be contiguous, meaning there can be no part of the district that is not a part of the whole
As long as these requirements are met, the city can consider more subjective factors including communities of interest such as neighborhoods and school boundaries, natural and man-made boundaries such as freeways, BART tracks, precincts and census blocks, the shape and appearance (“compactness’) of the districts and areas of potential population growth and housing patterns. The Council could decide to go with five (or more) districts and rotate the mayor each year. Or, it could opt for four districts with a directly elected mayor. If the district elections are held this November, it’s critical that the maps do not slice across precincts, which would require costly double elections. Additionally, while race can be considered along with other factors, it cannot be the determining factor in drawing the boundaries. At a public hearing on Jan. 16, more than 20 residents
weighed in on district elections. Despite concern on the part of the Council that it could pit one area of the city against another in competing for funds and services, the five-district model had the most support from residents. Birsan said it’s up to the voters to choose their district representative carefully. “It’s about accountability. You have to be able to touch the face of democracy.” This year, Laura Hoffmeister and Tim McGallian will both be up for reelection. It’s conceivable they could run against each other since they live in the same general area. In defining the districts, the Council could consider trying to avoid a head-to-head contest between the incumbents. However, several speakers at the hearing were vocal in saying this should not be a factor in drawing the maps. The city is calling for citizen input and has set up a special website for the district elections. Residents can weigh in through an online “Town Hall” or by completing a questionnaire at www.cityofconcord.org/districtelections. At the next public hearing on Feb. 6, Wagaman will present drafts maps for comment and revision. The maps will be on the district webpage on Jan. 30. On Feb. 27, the Council will hear input the revised draft maps. Final maps will be adopted at a public hearing on Mar. 13.
County working to improve transportation, infrastructure
KAREN MITCHOFF
COUNTY
SUPERVISOR
Although we have made improvements in transportation and infrastructure in Contra Costa County, there is still more work to be done. In 2017, the county added HOV lanes to 680 from Walnut Creek to San Ramon to help ease the southbound commute. The GoMentum Station in Concord continued to build and leverage partner-
ships worldwide to increase the number of autonomous vehicles tested at the former Naval Weapons Station. This effort brings innovative technology to our community and international recognition. With SB1 signed into law, more dollars will go directly into improving the safety of roads and freeways. This bill is projected to generate $54 billion in transportation dollars statewide over 10 years. About half of the money will go to cities and counties to fix local roads and potholes, improve lanes and other much-needed improvements. With continued advocacy around funding for transporta-
tion, there is also a growing need for alternative methods of transportation to be mindfully integrated in the infrastructure of services for the aging community. Someday that may include autonomous vehicles, but today these individuals rely on services like Meals on Wheels, public transit and in-home care programs. The Contra Costa County Area Agency on Aging provides systems of care and support toward independent living to the senior population. These services include Adult Day Care, Ombudsman Services (which includes complaint investigation and resolution services for residents over 60)
and the Fall Prevention program. They also partner with local organizations like Meals on Wheels, Mobility Matters, Alzheimer’s Association of Northern California and Rehabilitation Services of Northern California to provide extensive services for families across the county. As we enter the new year, I will continue to work with my colleagues through local and regional platforms to advocate for the safety and care of our community.
Karen Mitchoff is Contra Costa County District IV supervisor. Email questions or comments to karen.mitchoff@bos.cccounty.us
Technology upgrades, new roofs for schools in 2018 NELLIE MEYER
MDUSD
SUPERINTENDENT
I am excited to be back and look forward to a productive second half of the year, including facility improvements planned for 2018. I believe that a first-rate education benefits from modernized facilities with state-ofthe-art technology and environments. As such, I remain grateful to community mem-
bers who supported Measure C, a $348 million general obligation bond approved in 2010 to improve science, career and technical education facilities, upgrade technology and improve safety, among other things. The facilities team works hard on our modernization, leveraging bond money with other resources to enhance approved projects, from ADA upgrades to WiFi. Utilizing state-matching funds, we’ve expanded and accelerated technology plans so students K-12 have updated equipment and programs important for
Mayor, from page 1
concept of open agenda discussions with the public. The Brown Act prevents that at City Council meeting because we do not have an agenda item that says Suggested Future Agenda Items. There seems to be no support for the concept of such wide range of interactions at a council meeting. That does not stop me from taking in the things residents would like to see discussed and accomplished. Look for the Mayor’s Walk/Talk/Listen tours around the city to get in your shots. The first group is noon Sundays at Todos Santos; a February location has not been decided. The following are a bunch of things I would like to see done in the future; now to work on getting two more votes.
discussed at every meeting. Weekend mayor outreach. Plus total responsiveness to inquiries. Rotation of standing committees. This would ensure that no one is kept out of top committees. Community workshops around the city. Allow direct communication and discussion on neighborhood and city issues. Brown Act revision. Bring the Brown Act into the 21st century to increase transparency and community discussion.
developing technical proficiencies The district has used similar one-time funds for roofing projects and school field upgrades. Our focus on being good caretakers of natural resources has resulted in grant funding for environmentally responsive construction, solar and other green energy initiatives. There are many exciting projects underway, including a new baseball and softball field scoreboard at Concord High School, along with new gym bleachers and scoreboard and improved athletic field access.
sion. We need new approaches. Weapons Station development. Finalize with the Navy, start a transfer policy and resolve the Specific Plan. Higher education. Make progress on bringing a fouryear college, private or public, to the city. Concord City University is my dream. Perhaps it could start as a grant program for graduates from Concord schools, so they could go to college and live at home. Autonomous vehicles. Advance the connectivity factor in transportation for the existing city, along with testing and creation of new services. We should also get a satellite school or training ground on AV. Energy for the future. Build two electric charging stations, introduce clean energy for the city and start a solar project on the base. A more stable rent environment. Road repair. Look at new technologies in paving and materials.
At College Park, we’re updating the administrative center. Oak Grove Middle and Bel Air and Shore Acres elementary schools are getting new roofs. The district continues to look for opportunities to leverage outside funding and to refinance bonds when doing so can mean the reduction of millions of dollars of debt to taxpayers.
Dr. Nellie Meyer is Superintendent of Schools for MDUSD. Email questions or comments to meyern@mdusd.org
SOCIAL Here’s a list of social improvements to consider: • Ten historic markers around town. • A board game convention in Todos Santos during the summer. • Tournament field development plans advanced for the base. • Double the users of Concord Contact. • Have communities do assessments of their parks. • Police/city service substations in Monument and Hillcrest areas. • Increase library hours (one extra late night) and add two rooms. • Body cameras on police. • Expand Volunteers in Police Service to be Volunteers in City Services. • Make city leadership class larger. • Start an Arts Commission.
ECONOMIC Cannabis. Finalize the legal placement of retail and other services within the city and what restrictions are needed to make it work. Long-range financial plans. We have some horrible Email your questions and long-term problems with the POLITICAL comments to Mayor Birsan at District elections. The rise of pension costs, interest EdiBirsan@gmail.com decision has been made to rates and a presumed receshave them. We need to figure out how many, what lines and who is up when. I believe primary residency in districts needs to be required and we should explore independent commissions for the 2020 disThe words ESPECIALLY and SPECIALLY (from Latin, "species") are quite trict lines. close. The slight difference between the rare "especial" (out of the ordinary, Directly elected mayor. with the assumption that there is something not as good out there) and the Also, revise the mayor’s role to common "special" (distinctive) is erased when these words are used synonybe more effective and actionmously. What separates the adverbs especially and specially is that especially able, rather than ceremonial. means exceptionally or particularly, as in "this essay is especially good," whereAnd let’s have a rational disas specially rarely appears outside of colloquial usage. Specially is best avoided cussion of mayor and council in formal writing. In its defense, however, it might currently be heard and repeated as 'spepay. cially, as in "I wrote this 'specially for you." As for “I wrote it special”? No. Defined rotation of vice mayor. And maybe mayor if Sean Williams is a professor of ethnomusicology at The Evergreen State College in Olympia, Wash. my other plan fails. She is currently working on a Captain Grammar Pants book. Follow her regular postings on Facebook. Revised agenda policy. Allow for future agenda items to be
Captain Grammar Pants
January 26, 2018
Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
B USINESS
Hobbies take a hit with three store closings JOHN T. MILLER Correspondent
A trio of stores on Clayton Road that specialize in catering to leisure activities are going out of business, leaving their patrons disheartened. Ghost Golf, HobbyTown USA and Beverly Fabrics are within three blocks of each other. Ghost Golf has already closed, while Beverly’s Fabrics and HobbyTown are running closeout sales and will be open until most of the inventory is gone. Many customers are heartbroken to learn that Beverly’s Fabrics will be closing after problems with their lease. It will close when the lease is up in April, or earlier if they lack inventory. Joan Foster, who is in charge of floral design and decorations
neighborhood.” The chain started in Soquel in 1968 and currently has 12 stores in California, spanning from Ukiah to San Diego The Concord store opened 15 years ago. The store has 22 employees, mostly part-time. Manager Michelle Mar and assistant manager Mary Morrow, along with many of the other workers, will be getting resumes together to look for other employment. Foster is considering retiring. “We are like family,” she says of the staff. “You won’t find our Current and former employees of HobbyTown USA gather kind of service and caring at any around owner Michael Mann, center rear, at the going out other craft store.” of business sale. Current employees include, from left, HobbyTown USA, a locally front row, Jacob Cachol, Ryan Erickson, Ramez Jweainat owned, family-run business, and Chino Nazareta. To their right are former employees Matthew Cabihi and Sean Mitchell. has been serving local clients for 17 years. Owner Michael in the store, says they have had depend on us for their sup- Mann opted not to renew his to do a lot of grief counseling. plies,” she says. “When we go, See Closures, page 12 “The customers love us and it will leave a big hole in the
Eat it raw at new cookie dough shop KARA NAVOLIO Correspondent
They aren’t rolling in the dough yet, but the new Concord business Out the Dough is off to a strong start after opening in November. Word of mouth, news coverage and social media have helped draw Concord residents and cookie dough lovers from around the area to indulge in uncooked dough with names like Cinn-sational (sugar cookie dough with cinnamon roll pieces), Jimmie’s Classic (sugar cookie dough with rainbow sprinkles) and Twisted Chocoholic’s Dream (extra dark chocolate dough with semisweet chips and a marshmallow twist). A Facebook video of the shop has more than 60,000 views. The dough is served by the scoop, in cups or on cones – like ice cream. Owners Jill Lonardo, her son Angelo and daughter-in-law Marina make each batch by hand every day in the small shop on Clayton Road, across from TJ Maxx. Using pasteurized eggs and heat-treated flour and oats prevents bacteria growth, so the dough can be eaten raw. The raw dough can be ordered inside truffles, cannolis, cakes or milkshakes. Baked cookies are also available. “They are super friendly and family owned,” says repeat customer Molly Galloway,
MARILYN FOWLER
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
With the new year, it’s time to make plans for what you wish to accomplish in 2018. The Concord Chamber wants to help your business thrive. Come and network with us at our morning coffee events or evening mixers. Meet new business people. Form business relationships that will take your business to the next level. A couple of years ago, the Concord Chamber started a Business Referral Group to help members develop new leads. This is a structured
whose favorite is Original Chocolate Chip. “They have so many different flavors and are continually adding to it. They even make milkshakes that are super good, too. “It’s clear they use fresh ingredients because you can see them making it,” the Concord resident adds. Lonardo, who previously worked in insurance and once owned a café, was looking for a business opportunity that she could enjoy with her family. Angelo was living in New York and told her about DŌ, a popular cookie dough shop in Greenwich Village where people sometimes waited 45 minutes for a scoop. Angelo, who had just completed a bachelor’s degree in baking and pastry arts, moved back to California and joined in the recipe testing. They chose Concord because the family grew up in the area, and they like the sense of community here. “We pride ourselves on natural flavors and fresh ingredients,” Lonardo says. “We don’t use dyes or preservatives. Everything is made in-house, including the baklava for our Greek Goddess cookie dough.” Cookie lovers can choose from more than 10 flavors, including vegan and glutenfree options. The vegan cookie dough is called Ellen DoughGeneres, and a portion of
Page 9
P.O. Box 1246 6200 Center Street, Suite H, Clayton, CA 94517
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The Clayton Pioneer and the Concord Pioneer are monthly publications delivered free to homes and businesses in 94517, 94518, 94519 and 94521. ZIP code 94520 is currently served by drop site distribution. The papers are published by Clayton Pioneer, Inc., Tamara and Robert Steiner, PO 1246, Clayton, CA 94517. The offices are located at 6200 Center St. Suite H, Clayton, CA 94517
LET US KNOW Weddings, anniversaries, births and deaths all weave together as part of the fabric of our community. Please let us know of these important events. We ask only that the announcement be for a resident in our home delivery area. Submit on our website and be sure to attach a JPG photo that is at least 3 MB. Also on the website are forms for calendar items, events & press releases.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Both Pioneer newspapers welcome letters from our readers.
Marina, left, and Jill Lonardo make cookie dough from scratch daily at Out the Dough.
those sales goes to the celebrity’s charity. A sugar-free option is planned, as well as a second location. The Lonardos believe in giving back to the community. They have already hosted a fund-raising night for Queen of All Saints School in Concord in which a portion of sales went to the school. They are also raising money for North Bay fire relief, with 15 percent of the cash in the tip jar passed onto groups in the North Bay. Nordstrom in Stoneridge
Mall in Pleasanton will be hosting them in a pop-up shop near the Nordstrom Café on Feb. 11 for a Valentine’s Day promotion. The Lonardos hope to schedule a few more pop-up locations throughout the year. The cookie dough can be eaten at the cozy shop at 4666 Clayton Road, taken to go or ordered through Door Dash and Grub Hub. The store is closed on Mondays.
jects relating to business. The chamber hosts a SCORE volunteer counselor twice a month to help entrepreneurs start small businesses and achieve new levels of success in existing businesses. The Small Business Development Center, supported by the Workforce Development Board, delivers individualized advice and training in collaboration with community partners to business owners, the self-employed and emerging entrepreneurs seeking assistance in starting, growing or managing their operations. These are free services. If you are in need of office space, Regus provides space for a fraction of the cost of setting up your own office. Renters pay only for the space needed – short-term, longterm, all on your terms. For those looking to improve public speaking skills,
Marilyn Fowler is the president/CEO of the Concord Chamber of Commerce. For more information on chamber programs, call 925-685-1181 or email mfowler@concordchamber.com.
SUBSCRIPTIONS To subscribe to either the Clayton Pioneer or the Concord Pioneer, call the office at (925) 672-0500. Subscriptions are $35/year for each paper, $60/year for both.
In downtown Clayton. Desk, phone line, Internet, copier/printer/fax, free parking. Local references required. $500/month. Call (925) 285-8612 or email tamara@claytonpioneer.com.
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For more information, visit www.outthedough.com.
Diablo Toastmasters offers a proven way to improve communication skills. By participating in a fun and supportive Toastmasters group, people become better speakers and leaders while gaining confidence to succeed. Robert Huffman Leadership Coaching features personalized life coaching for leaders and people who wish to move forward in their lives. The coaching teaches how to better execute, influence and build relationships and/or process information. Call the Concord chamber and we will help you navigate ways to be more successful in your business.
CIRCULATION The Concord Pioneer is delivered monthly to 30,000 homes and businesses in 94518, 94519 and 94521. Papers are delivered by carriers for ABC Direct around the last Friday of the month. To stop delivery for any reason, call the office at (925) 672-0500 . If you are NOT receiving the Pioneer, please check the distribution map on the website. If you live in the shaded area and are not receiving the paper, please let us know. If you are not in the shaded area, please be patient. We will come to your neighborhood soon. The Clayton Pioneer is delivered by US Mail to 5,500 homes and businesses in 94517 around the second Friday of the month.
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Chamber helps businesses grow group that meets twice a month for a six-month term. It is an industry exclusive group that offers people the opportunity to meet other members and promote their businesses in a non-competitive environment. We also offer two or three other networking events each month. A good start is our First Friday Coffee, held 8-9 a.m. at Sam’s Club on the first Friday of the month several months each year. We also host a monthly Women’s Networking Luncheon at the chamber office, with time to network and meet new business leaders. Meanwhile, members host Business After Hours mixers at their locations each month. These mixers are a great opportunity to network and get to know more business members in the community. The chamber also offers several seminars each year on sub-
As a general rule, letters should be 175 words or less and submitted at least one week prior to publication date. Letters concerning current issues will have priority. We may edit letters for length and clarity. All letters will be published at the editor’s discretion. Please include name, address and daytime telephone number. We will not print anonymous letters. E-mail your letter to editor@concordpioneer.com. Letters must be submitted via E-mail.
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SPORTS
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Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
January 26, 2018
Unbeaten Ugly Eagles off to historic start in boys hoops JAY BEDECARRÉ Concord Pioneer
Clayton Valley Charter High boys basketball has started this season with 18 consecutive victories, the school’s longest ever winning streak according to head coach Eric Bamberger. The Ugly Eagles beat Diablo Athletic League co-favorite Las Lomas 82-63 in a raucous Dan Della Gym last Friday as they took a key step towards a repeat title. Bamberger said, “It was a great atmosphere at CVCHS [last] Friday night. Our players were intense and our crowd was into the game. The team has been playing at a fast pace with what we call ‘controlled chaos.’” CVCHS went undefeated in DAL Valley Division last year but they are now in the revamped Foothill Division with Miramonte, College Park, Campolindo, Acalanes and Las Lomas and will face a tougher task in repeating their 10-0 league record from a year ago.
Last year’s DAL co-MVPs Nick Klarman and Garrett Pascoe have been providing senior leadership along with versatile center JD Williams. Last month the team won the Roy Ghiggeri Invitational in Oakley, beating host Freedom in the championship game 77-46. Pascoe was named MVP and Klarman all-tournament. Earlier in December they won the Warren Morse Memorial Tournament at Mt. Eden High in Hayward where the Eagles also beat the tourney hosts in the finals. They began their December tournament run by taking first place in the Richard Burke Memorial tournament at Antioch High with Klarman the MVP and Pascoe all-tourney. “The biggest difference is our players’ love for competition. Whether it is in practice or games they love to compete,” Bamberger said. The Eagles have been climbing up Bay Area and Northern California rankings and figure to get a high Division I seed at
NICK KLARMAN CVCHS BASKETBALL
North Coast Section if they continue on their current track. De La Salle is the defending NCS DI champion. Under second-year coach Justin Argenal the Spartans are 13-5 including a 4-1 mark in the East Bay Athletic League. The EBAL’s top four teams have only three league losses among them. They split four games in Palm Springs at the MaxPreps Holiday Classic at the end of December, losing to a
Kahlil McKenzie leaving Tennessee for NFL draft after junior season
Photo courtesy Tennessee Athletics
Junior defensive lineman Kahlil McKenzie (99) made a surprise announcement this month on his Instagram account that he is going to forego his final football season at the University of Tennessee to enter the NFL draft. The Clayton Valley Charter High School grad never lived up to his five-star recruiting rating, but at 6-3, 320 pounds the son of Oakland Raiders general manager Reggie McKenzie will still get plenty of attention from pro scouts in preparation for the late April draft. McKenzie transferred to De La Salle for his junior year and had 74 tackles for the Spartans as they took second in the State. He then transferred with his younger brother Jalen (now a freshman player at USC) to CVCHS and was eventually ruled ineligible to play his senior season year for the Ugly Eagles. In his three seasons with the Vols, also his dad’s alma mater, McKenzie totaled 71 tackles. On Instagram in announcing his decision to turn pro McKenzie wrote “I want to say thank you to the city of Knoxville and the ENTIRE VolNation for embracing me through the ups and downs through these past 3 years.”
925-250-0334
ANA CARABEZ YGNACIO VALLEY SOCCER
pair of Southern California teams. Northgate is also off to a great start with a 14-2 record and the Broncos look like the favorites in the DAL Valley Division.
GIRLS BASKETBALL Clayton Valley Charter and Concord are in the DAL Foothill Division this season and face an uphill battle scheduled against perennial powers Miramonte and Campolindo. CVCHS was 2-1 in the West Coast Jamboree Ruby flight, which they hosted in Concord. The Eagles beat South of Torrance, CA in double overtime 59-56 of the third-place game. All of the losses in a 9-9 season have been to teams with winning records. Coach Elgin Leslie’s Carondelet team was moved up to NCS D-I last year and won its 12th Section championship since 2003, significantly the school’s first in the top division. With its reduced EBAL schedule this year the Cougars have loaded up on top nonleague opponents from throughout NorCal as well as playing in the Tarkanian Classic in Las Vegas and in the top Platinum flight of the West Coast Jamboree. They lost to No. 27 St. Joseph and the No. 1 team in the USA Archbishop Mitty. Last Saturday they rallied in the fourth quarter to defeat McClatchy of Sacramento 6357 in the Lamorinda Classic as junior post Ali Bamberger scored 25 points and had 15 rebounds. They still have games against USA No. 6 St. Mary’s of Stockton Feb. 3, No. 15 in the US Pinewood Feb. 10 and No. 11 in California Salesian in Richmond on Jan 31. At the Tarkanian Tournament they lost two of three but rebounded for the Platinum consolation championship at the West Coast Jamboree where they won two games after an opening
EMILY HOCKENBERY CONCORD SOCCER
lost to Folsom, the No. 9 ranked team in the state. Bamberger, daughter of the CVCHS boys varsity coach, was an all-tournament selection at the WCJ. BOYS SOCCER Coach Guillermo Jara’s Ugly Eagles have posted a 103-3 record including eight shutouts, including all three draws. They are in a tough DAL Foothill bracket with Ygnacio Valley, Las Lomas and Northgate all vying for top honors. Concord, Acalanes and Miramonte look like the class of the Valley Division. De La Salle is 8-2-4 including a 4-0-3 EBAL record that puts them in a first-place tie with San Ramon Valley. The co-leaders drew 1-1 last week in Danville.
ROBERTO BARAHONA CONCORD SOCCER
GIRLS SOCCER Clayton Valley Charter and its new head coach Aaron Pomeroy are undefeated in 21 games with 14 victories and seven draws. The Eagles and Northgate are tied for first in the DAL Valley Division with 3-0-1 records, just ahead of Ygnacio Valley’s 2-1-1. Neither CVCHS nor Northgate have given up a league goal. Carondelet has lost heartbreakers in the past two NCS DI championship games and want to correct that trend this winter. They were undefeated in the Madera Showcase in December and are 4-2-1 in EBAL, sitting in fourth place. They are 12-3-2 overall. They began this calendar year with four victories over Texas teams at the National Elite Prep Showcase in Fort Worth.
Local players commit to college football with Wyoming, Cal
Offensive lineman Brandon Mello has committed to play for the Cal Bears this fall. He led the way for CVCHS backs to average 315 years a game rushing this past season as the Ugly Eagles made it to the NCS Open Division football playoffs, where they once again lost to De La Salle in the semi-finals. Mello is ranked as high as the nation’s No. 57 offensive tackle according to Rivals. CVCHS coach Tim Murphy (right) says Mello is the only player from this year’s DAL championship team to commit to a four-year school. He received several post-season honors.
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De’Vaughn Brown has signed to play football this fall at the University of Wyoming. The Ygnacio Valley senior visited the Mountain West Conference school’s Laramie campus last month and made his commitment. The Cowboys won the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl game in December to cap an 8-5 record behind quarterback Josh Allen, recently tabbed as the potential No. 1 NFL draft choice this spring. The 6-3, 220-pound Brown will play outside linebacker or defensive end at Wyoming. A transfer from Deer Valley, Brown was first-team all-DAL helping the Warriors of new coach Clyde Byrd (right) to the North Coast Section playoffs last season.
January 26, 2018
Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com among the top 20 scorers in North Coast Section this year, averaging over 18 points a game. Her Bay Area Magic traveling team coach Al Attles III says she’s “a relentless offensive threat; her strength driving to the hole and endless range creates numerous mismatches on the court.” That strength might come as president of the Ygnacio Valley women’s weightlifting club where the 58 dynamo squats 265 pounds and bench presses 135. College recruiters from Division 2 and 3 and NAIA schools have noticed Roland so her dream of playing at the next level may begin this fall while she maintains a B average at Ygnacio.
Athlete Spotlight
Al’iza Roland
Grade: Senior School: Ygnacio Valley High Sport: Basketball
SportStars magazine ran a feature in its November issue titled “Plucking Stars from the Shadows.” The story highlighted 25 senior girls basketball players in Northern California who have been “flying under the radar” in terms of the amount of recognition and appreciation they receive for their hard work in practice and games. Among those athletes was Roland, who
is now finishing up her fourth year on the Warriors varsity. She’s mainly played shooting or point guard but she’s even moves into the post on occasion. The player who answers to “Zaay” says, despite losing most of their games, the Warriors of coach Jamal Frazier are “playing hard and learning to play with each other” on a roster that includes only two seniors besides Roland. She’s
The Concord Pioneer congratulates Al’iza and thanks Athlete Spotlight sponsors Dr. Laura Lacey & Dr. Christopher Ruzicka who have been serving the Clayton and Concord area for 25 years at Family Vision Care Optometry. www.laceyandruzicka.com Do you know a young athlete who should be recognized? Perhaps he or she has shown exceptional sportsmanship, remarkable improvement or great heart for the sport. Send your nomination for the Pioneer Athlete Spotlight today to sports@claytonpioneer.com.
Football News: DLS takes second lopsided defeat in State finals; Changes afoot for DAL
Jay Bedecarré
New head coach Paul Reynaud had to lead his Concord High football team on a nomadic journey this past fall season while all-weather turf was installed in the on-campus stadium. The project is yet to be finished but the Minutemen have set Friday, Aug. 17, as the first game on the new surface when Dougherty Valley visits from San Ramon. Two weeks later on Aug. 31 they will host and renew their rivalry with Clayton Valley Charter. Their annual crosstown game last year was canceled due to the air quality conditions caused by the Napa fires.
De La Salle High has gone into the last two State CIF Open Division championship games as a big underdog to Southern California powerhouses and that opinion has been borne out twice with the Spartans suffering two of the biggest losses in their storied history. Lat month, Mater Dei of Santa Ana lived up to its ranking as America’s No. 1 high school team after handling DLS 52-21, a year after St. John Bosco scored the most points ever given up by DLS to win the 2016 title 56-23. Going into last month’s State final Spartans head coach Justin Alumbaugh said his team would have to play a near perfect game to give themselves a chance against Mater Dei. That didn’t prove the case as DLS had five turnovers including early fumbles and a Pick 6 interception and then again when they appeared to be making a comeback in the third quarter. Mater Dei quarterback JT Daniels and receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown starred in the game and both are headed to USC, Daniels graduating a year early. De La Salle is now 7-5 in State championship games as the only school to reach that game every year since CIF resumed the State Bowl program 12 years ago. They earned the Open Division berth by winning their 26th straight North Coast Section championship over rival Pittsburg, which will be a major threat to DLS next year after
reaching its first-ever State championship game last month. Besides turnovers, sloppy play and injuries that cost the Spartans during the season, the team never found a real solution at quarterback with juniors Erich Storti and Andrew Jones sharing duties. Freshman lefthander Dorian Hale played with the first team in the State final and figures to get a shot at the starting role in the fall. Highly recruited junior Henry To’oto’o was named Bay Area defensive player of the year and he’ll be counted on next year to lead the team along with Isaiah Foskey, who is also getting college offers from around the country. Both are two-way players. Seton Hall last week offered a scholarship to DLS runningback Kairee Robinson, who suffered through an injury-plagued senior year but still scored a pair of touchdowns against Mater Dei.
BENICIA HIGH JOINING DAL The Diablo Athletic League is halfway through its second season and is now making plans to expand for the 201819 school year when Benicia High School joins the 12-team conference that came about in 2016 after realignment by North Coast Section. With 12 teams the DAL has been able to split into two sixteam divisions in most sports that is aimed at providing competitive equity for most of the schools. Each sport is aligned based on results of the past two years. The sports with all 13 schools taking part will obviously have a built-in bye in one of the divisions. Benicia is currently part of the Solano County Athletic Conference in the Sac-Joaquin Section. The Panthers finished with a 6-4 record in football last fall and lost in the first round of the Division III Section playoffs.
CONCORD RE-OPENS STADIUM IN AUGUST After missing the fall and winter seasons Concord High’s NEW GOLDEN BEAR Another all-Bay Area play- football-soccer stadium is due er, Brandon Mello of Clayton for completion in time for Valley Charter, signed his spring track and field. The turf
Photo by Dennis Lee/SportStars
JAY BEDECARRÉ Concord Pioneer
National Letter of Intent last month to join the Cal Bears this summer. The 6-6, 285pound offensive lineman helped the 2016 and 2017 Ugly Eagles to average over 300 yards per game rushing. He was ranked as high as the nation’s No. 57 offensive tackle, according to Rivals. Cal head coach Justin Wilcox said, “Brandon is a talented prospect from an excellent high school football program that is just the type of homegrown student-athlete right in our backyard that we want to keep home. Brandon and the remainder of the offensive linemen in this recruiting class give us a tremendous foundation for the future and should play a lot of football at Cal by the time they finish their collegiate careers.”
Henry To’oto’o was named Bay Area defensive player of the year for NCS champion De La Salle.
field is part of a $5.6 million project paid for mainly from remaining Measure A funds, a bond measure passed by the voters in 1989. The Minuteman football team will host Dougherty Valley of San Ramon in the 2018 season opener on Aug. 17. Two weeks later they will also host crosstown rival Clayton Valley Charter in a non-league game. A new turf softball field and the baseball stadium are both under construction and completion time for this spring’s season is still uncertain with weather playing a big role in getting turf installed in both sites.
Page 11
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It might be the most fascinating thing in sports this year. The Raiders and 49ers both finished 6-10 in the recentlyconcluded NFL season. What is fascinating is that these two teams got to that mediocre record in polar opposite ways. Oakland, coming off a 12-4 season and a trip to the playoffs, had high hopes for this year. They were picked to win the AFC West by many and they were a popular choice to win the Super Bowl as well. However, injuries to quarterback Derek Carr and wide
receiver Amari Cooper, coupled with suspensions to running back Marshawn Lynch and WR Michael Crabtree derailed this team early on. The Raiders did right the ship eventually, pulling to 6-6 in early December. At that point, all they had to do was go 9-7 and a division title was a near certainty. Even finishing at 8-8 would give them a chance for the playoffs. Out in Santa Clara, the Niners were busy living up to everyone’s expectations, or lack thereof. They started 0-8, setting the stage for what appeared to be a battle for the number one draft pick and QB Josh Rosen. The next day, general manager John Lynch struck a trade for Tom Brady’s apparent successor—- Jimmy Garoppolo. Nobody knew whether he would be a bust or a savior. It was not until they were 110 did he start for SF. The win against an awful New York Giants team was good but not
Sports Shorts
MDSA SPRING LEAGUE REGISTRATION DEADLINE FEB. 1
Registration is open for Mt Diablo Soccer Association’s spring season. For guaranteed placement on a team the deadline is Feb. 1. The program is open to boys and girls under 5-U19 divisions. The older divisions are co-ed teams. Games start midMarch. MDSA AYSO Region 223 serves Clayton, Concord and surrounding communities. For more details and to register visit mdsoccer.org.
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bring back Jon Gruden and wondering whether Cooper would ever live up to his potential and if Carr would rebounded from a major step back season in his development. San Francisco felt like champions. They have the next big thing at QB and a young stud coach in Kyle Shanahan to lead them. The Raiders are panicking, on the brink of collapse (and just a couple seasons from moving to Las Vegas), while the 49ers are exuberant, basking in success on the horizon. It is amazing how two seasons that look the exact same from the outside can have such different effects. One year ago, these teams were headed in clearly different directions. Today, that may still be true, except the directions might have flipped. Email any comments or questions to sports@claytonpioneer.com.
USKS PRESENTS 31ST ANNUAL JUST FOR KICKS BENEFIT SHOWCASE FEB. 3
USKS Martial Arts will host its annual showcase, Just For Kicks, on Saturday, Feb. 3, with students from Pee Wee Champs (four years and younger) up through the studio’s black belt instructors. Just For Kicks is at Berean Christian High School in Walnut Creek starting at 6 p.m. Advance tickets at $10 can be purchased at the Dojo (4483 Clayton Rd. by Bill’s Ace Hardware) or from USKS students. Visit usksmartialarts.com for details.
DIABLO FC OFFERING PLAYER EVALUATIONS AFTER FALL LEAGUE
Diablo FC under 8 through U19 competitive teams (birth years 1999-2011) hold ongoing player evaluations for new ALUMNI SWIMMERS TO HONOR LEGENDARY COACH Ygnacio Valley High’s Athletic Hall of Fame is inducting prospective players with formal tryouts scheduled for May. Visit swim coach Gino Barsuglia on May 19 at their annual induction diablofc.org to get more information on the club and signup for ceremony. The committee is looking for alumni who swam for the appropriate age group evaluation. the Warriors under coach Barsuglia to invite them to join in honTHE HEAT IS ON WINS ALL OUT SPORTS LEAGUE oring him posthumously. Coach Rick Silvey will be accepting on WINTER VOLLEYBALL behalf of Barsuglia to share the achievements of his YVHS The winter adult coed 5’s volleyball league championship was swim teams winning five DVAL championships and five consecutive North Coast Section championships from 1969-74. Swim- won by The Heat Is On at Clayton Community Gym. The team mers can get in touch with YVHS via email at ygnaciovalley- included Melanie Ruiz, captain David Heaton, Jan Heaton, Alan Branum, Kristi Branum, Dave De Costa and Paula De Costa. halloffame@gmail.com. Runner-up was Epic, Awesome, Kills and third place team was Spike Lightning. DIABLO FC BENEFIT CRAB FEED
BOWLING OFFERED THROUGH CONCORD The 15th annual Diablo FC benefit crab feed, raffle and SPECIAL RECREATION PROGRAM dance is set for Friday, Feb. 2, at Centre Concord. Tickets will be Concord Parks and Recreation offers inclusive and specialon sale shortly for the event that benefits programs for the local competitive youth soccer club affiliated with the San Jose Earth- ized programs for people with disabilities and is running a bowlquakes. Visit diablofc.org for more details and to get information ing program for those 18 years or older every Tuesday through Feb. 27 from 3:30-5:30 p.m. at Clayton Valley Bowl. “It is our on event sponsoring and purchasing crab feed tickets. goal to ensure that individuals with disabilities have access to our programs and that the experience is successful and meaningful,” JUNIOR OPTIMIST BASEBALL, SOFTBALL said program coordinator Dario Sanchez. For more information SIGNUPS TAKEN ONLINE Junior Optimist Baseball/Softball League is accepting regis- about this program and other opportunities this year, contact tration for ages 4-15 for boys JOBL and Babe Ruth baseball and Sanchez at 671-3017. To register go to www.ConcordReg.org. girls ages 6-14 for softball. Early bird rates end this Sunday. There are also year-round travel team opportunities for Patriot baseball and Glory/Lady Liberty softball teams. For more information email info@joblconcord.com or visit joblconcord.com. 24TH CVCHS ATHLETIC BOOSTERS CRAB FEED & AUCTION MAR. 10
Clayton Valley Charter High School Athletic Boosters hold their 24th annual Crab Feed and Auction on Saturday, Mar. 10, at Centre Concord. Attendees must be 21 or older. For more info email cvchsboosters@gmail.com or go to cvhsboosters.org for info and to order tickets online for a night of food, drink, dancing, auctions and raffle prizes.
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ground-breaking. However, this did lead the 49ers to 2-10 on the same day the Raiders moved to 6-6. It was the first week of December and both Bay Area football teams had a buzz. Raider fans were looking for a great finish to lead to another playoff berth. Niner fans hoped they could win another game or two, perhaps wooing Garoppolo to re-sign in the offseason. Here is where it gets really fascinating: The 49ers won their last four games while the Raiders lost their final four so both teams ended with identical 6-10 records. The tiebreaker to determine NFL draft order is strength of schedule and each team had a SOS of 0.512. The next tiebreaker? A coin flip. That is what will separate the seasons of these two teams who play in stadiums separated by 30 miles. Oakland ruled their season a disappointment, firing head coach Jack Del Rio in oder to
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ST. BONAVENTURE CYO TRACK IN-PERSON SIGN UPS THIS MONTH
St. Bonaventure CYO spring track and field is holding online registration until Feb. 3. The track and field program is open to boys and girls in second through eighth grades. Practices begin Feb. 1 and will be held Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 45:15 p.m. at Newhall Park. Saturday meets begin in March and the season runs through May 12, culminating with the Oakland Diocese championships. For more information call 826-7426, email head coach Matt Tillman at matttillman@gmail.com or go to stbonaventurecyo.com.
REGISTRATION OPEN FOR ALL OUT SPORTS LEAGUES WINTER, SPRING PROGRAMS
Youth basketball and volleyball leagues and adult softball league are scheduled by All Out Sports Leagues in Clayton. They are taking registration online. For complete information on All Out Sports leagues, clinics and other programs, visit alloutsportsleague.com.
CONCORD CUP XXV ACCEPTING TEAM REGISTRATIONS
Please recycle this paper
The area’s largest annual youth soccer tournament, Concord Cup, returns for its landmark 25th season at a variety of local parks May 19-20. Boys and girls club and recreation teams from under 9 (2010) through U19 (2000) are eligible to participate. Diablo FC, Mt. Diablo Soccer and Concord AYSO co-sponsor the tournament. Visit concordcup.com for complete information and to register a team to participate.
Closures, from page 9
lease, citing online sales as an insurmountable barrier. “We felt the impact during the 2016 holiday season and haven’t been able to recover,” Mann said. “The hobby industry is struggling to respond.” He added that some of his partners in inventory and distribution are also fighting an uphill battle, with at least one recently declaring bankruptcy. More than a hundred people lined up before opening on the day of the closeout sale. “For three hours, the line stretched from one end of the store to the other and back again,” Mann said. “Our customers were real sympathetic and understanding. The response was overwhelming.” Mann ran out and bought doughnuts for the customers and employees. He got emotional while speaking about his employees. “The biggest thing about closing was thinking about my 50 employees and hoping they all land on their feet. Most of them have worked for me for over five years, and they all feel like family to me.” Mann will be unemployed like the rest of them, but says, “I’m ready to go back to work for someone else, rather than
running my own business.” Ghost Golf owner Daryn Coleman did not respond to repeated phone calls and emails from the Pioneer. After the Jan. 7 closing, the inside was gutted and loaded into five large Pods that have now vanished. More than just another miniature golf setting, this eclectic recreational spot featured ghouls and goblins along the 18hole course – as well as a mummy shooting gallery, air hockey and an arcade. Concord High students Grace Purzyeki and Cecelia Breland-Hayes recalled having great fun there at birthday parties with their families. “I’m going to miss that place,” Purzyeki said. “It was nice having miniature golf so close.” Yelp reports say the place was “the most eccentric place I’ve ever seen” and “everything I want in a date night with my boyfriend.” One reviewer said that he just discovered the place and found out it was closing, while another claimed that they were relocating. So far, there’s no word on where the graveyard setting may be reborn.
January 26, 2018
LYNNE FRENCH
REAL ANSWERS
Q. We just bought a home that is a cosmetic fixer-upper. I have been reading design magazines, but it all sound boring and neutral. Do I need to go with a bland style? A. As long as you aren’t selling your home anytime soon, let your individuality shine. One of the many benefits of owning instead of renting is that there are no restrictions when it comes to design. Create a personal statement to make your home your own.
Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
Personal touches make a house a home
Here are some ideas: Display your passions. Find an area to showcase collections that get you excited, whether it is comic books or antique snow globes. The key is to choose one area. Don’t let your collections take over the entire home. Express yourself with the walls. Go beyond the usual framed prints and accent mirrors to find something that reflects your personality. Poet? Use stencils to inscribe your favorite quote right on the wall. Artist? Go a step further and add a mural. Music lover? Frame and hang beloved album covers or concert posters. Traveler? Turn a wall into a collection of photographs and framed objects that reflect your favorite destinations. Make a grand entrance. Maybe it’s a whimsical piece
of statuary or a planter filled with something unexpected, like a well-stacked group of beach rocks. Or an unusual door knocker or a doorbell that plays Beethoven’s 5th. Whatever you choose, small touches make a personal statement before anyone even gets inside. Put furniture in the wrong room. Remember when Joey and Chandler opted for a foosball table over a kitchen table on “Friends”? Maybe something similar will work for you. Perhaps there is a spot in your kitchen for a chaise lounge. Or add a loveseat to a bedroom instead of the requisite side chair, or an antique, full-length mirror in your living room. When done tastefully, furniture in unexpected places can work wonders by creating a memorable experience.
Show off your green thumb indoors. If you’re a plant lover, incorporate indoor plants and flowers to keep your hobby going year-round. Select a sunny spot and start cultivating an orchid or African violet collection. Or choose strategic locations for hanging plants, using attractive planters made from copper, ceramic or other finishes of your preference. Q. Are there any interesting houses on the market? A. Jack Bauer’s fictional home from “24” is for sale for a cool $3.9 million. The posh space at 4620 Rubio Ave. in Encino was also featured in “CSI” and the ’90s classic “Beverly Hills, 90210.” At 6,000 sq. ft. with five bedrooms and six bathrooms, the modern home was
The Waterfront Gang was all about boxing
CAROL LONGSHORE
YESTERYEAR
After Will Jackson became friends with many of the boys in town, he turned his old barn into a boxing ring. Jackson’s barn sat by his junkyard on the hill by Market Street in the late 1920s and early ’30s. It was down where all the car dealerships are now. There used to be a river running behind Market Street where Park and Shop is now, off of Willow Pass. This riverbank is where many families settled: the Buscaglias, the Bissos, the Maggios, the Lehmers and the Alberas, to name a few. The boys and young men started hanging out, and Jackson taught them boxing. They became known as the Waterfront Gang. The picture shows three of the five Buscaglia brothers. Many of the cousins still live here in Concord. The parents of the brothers both came from Italy, but they met in the little town of Napa Junction, CA. They married and moved to Concord when Giovanni’s parents got sick,
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Coach Will Jackson, far right, oversaw the Waterfront Gang: Pete Tamborini, seated at left, Bob Albert, Mario (Tuffy) Buscaglia, Louis (Babe) Buscaglia, Angelo (Teet) Buscaglia and front row, Julio Maggi and Chick Feroggaro.
so Angelina could take care of them. For the brothers, boxing became entertaining and exciting. Cooky was the best, they say. The lefty soon became the one to watch. He was brother No. 3, but sadly he’s not in the picture. Although he didn’t box, brother No. 1, John, became
the first constable of the fifth township of Concord in 1946 and served until 1957. Then he was the first county marshal, until 1974. The ages of those in the Waterfront Gang varied. Aside from the guys in the picture, two other little kids belonged: Jocho and Willie Maggio.
It’s fun to imagine Concord way back then. These guys had great stories to pass down as part of the history of Concord.
Carol Longshore has been a Concord resident since 1950. She is a community leader and current president of the Concord Historical Society. Send comments and suggestions for future topics to editor@concordpioneer.com.
designed in 1939 by prominent architect J.R. Davidson. The one-story home sits on a lush two-thirds of an acre, with a pool perfect for lounging, sleek spaces for entertaining both indoors and out, a home gym, an outdoor kitchen, fireplace and fire pit. If that is not impressive enough, you’ll be comforted to
know that early photos of the residence hang in the Getty Center. Send your question and look for your answer in a future column. Email Lynne@LynneFrench.com. French is the broker/owner of Windermere Lynne French & Associates. Contact her at 672-8787 or stop in at 6200 Center St., Clayton.
With age comes the wisdom to love yourself
CHRISTINE KOGUT
SAVVY SENIOR
Unlike some people, I couldn’t care less about everyone knowing I’ve turned 70. I’ve earned every single gray hair on my head. Well, I’m blonde now because I just colored, but believe me – they’re there. Just don’t ask me how much I weigh. That little factoid will go with me to the grave. There’s an old joke: “My teeth are like the stars; they come out at night.” Well, so do most of mine. My roommate is always telling me how pretty I look when I get ready to go somewhere. One morning, I called to her through my bedroom door and asked if she remembered the commercial where the woman said, “Don’t hate me because I’m beautiful.” I then walked into the hallway with bedhead sticking up in all directions, no make-up and my teeth still in their cup. The look on her face was a cross between abject horror and a fit of the giggles. It’s so freeing to have reached this stage in my life, because I no longer worry about what people might think of me. I like who I am – even
if my children cringe when they read this or possibly disown me outright. When we’re young, we waste so much time obsessing about our looks and selfesteem. When I was 19, I was in a serious head-on collision. The only thing that saved my life was the fact that the vehicle behind me hit me at the same time I plowed into the car in front of me. Upon impact, my front seat broke and I was thrown onto the back seat. The first thing I did was check to see if my hairpiece was on straight. I’m sure that the placement of my postiche would not have been high on the paramedics’ checklist of my vitals. I’ve discovered you can save the best for last. Seniors have a lifetime of wisdom to impart. We may walk a little slower, have a harder time retrieving stored information, squint when we read and make inappropriate noises at the most inopportune times – but, by golly, we should know who we are by now and like what we’ve learned about ourselves. Just wait. Your time is coming. So my advice to you is to learn to love who you are and laugh at yourself in spite of it all. Spend time enjoying your life everyday so you don’t miss out. There are no doovers. Christine Kogut is a marketing director for the Concord Senior Citizens Club. She has lived in the area for 40 years and formerly worked for the Contra Costa Times. To find out more about the Concord Senior Center, call 925.671.3320 or see the city’s website at concord.ca.us
Take some time off the bike to read about the road
I asked friends and members of Bike Concord what books they would recommend for people who ride bikes and compiled a list that’s too good not to share. “Holy Spokes, the Search for Urban Spirituality on Two Wheels,” by Laura Everett. She inspires me to ride without excuse as she shares her spiritual journey of cycling year-round in Boston. “Bike Snob: Systematically & Mercilessly Realigning the World of Cycling,” by BikeSnobNYC. Witty and sarcastic, this book includes chapters like “Why is everybody trying to kill me?” “Urban Cycling, How to Get to Work, Save Money, and Use Your Bike for City Living,” by Madi Carlson. This book was written for people who are “interested, but concerned” when it comes to biking around town, it also covers bike
LAURA NAKAMURA BIKE CONCORD commuting with children. “Happy City: Transforming Our Lives Through Urban Design,” by Charles Montgomery. He incorporates the science of happiness into urban planning and how cities shape our thoughts and behavior to tackle traffic, affordability, sustainability and mental health. “Zinn & the Art of Road
Bike Maintenance, 5th Ed. The World’s Best-Selling Bicycle Repair and Maintenance Guide,” by Lennard Zinn. This manual is for anyone who’d like to understand the mechanics of their bikes and be able to self-repair when needed. Suited for both professional and at-home amateur wrenchers. “Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance,” by Robert M. Pirsig. This book is about a father-son motorcycle trip across the western United States. “Bicycle Diaries,” by David Byrne. “Part travelogue, part journal, part photo album,” this memoir was written by the musician and co-founder of Talking Heads. “Full Tilt: Ireland to India with a Bicycle,” by Dervla Murphy. This book is based on the author’s daily diary and account of her ride
across frozen Europe, through Persia, Afghanistan, over the Himalayas to Pakistan and India during one of the worst winters in memory (1963). “Bikenomics: How Bicycling Can Save The Economy,” by Elly Blue. The author covers the choices we make for getting around and how we spend our money, as families and as a society. “Fast after 50, How to Race Strong for the Rest of Your Life,” by Joe Friel. This is for the endurance athlete who wants to stay fast, because getting older doesn’t mean you have to slow down. “French Revolutions, Cycling the Tour de France,” by Tim Moore. The book tells of a middle-aged father of two who rides the route of the Tour de France. He is interested in cycling but not really a cyclist. “Bicycling Science,” by
David Gordon Wilson. This is the bible of bicycle builders and cyclists. The illustrated book includes history, human propulsion, aerodynamics, speed, engineering and human physiology. “Effective Cycling,” by John Forester. He is the father of the vehicular cycling principle, “Cyclists fare best when they act and are treated as drivers of vehi-
cles.” The book offers sage advice for navigating the rules of the road and understanding how traffic is organized. If you have any other suggestions, mention it on the Bike Concord Facebook page.
Nakamura is a volunteer with Bike Concord. Contact her at laura@bikeconcord.org.
Why advertise in the Pioneer? Since I started advertising in the Clayton and Concord Pioneers, my business has exploded. I can hardly keep up with the calls.
Kevin Schmidt, General Contractor Diablo View Construction
Page 14
Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
January 26, 2018
As trends come and go, let’s put sexual abuse in the past
AASIM YAHYA
TEEN SPEAK Although we’re in a new year, many trends have crossed over to 2018. Some practices will likely persist, like our obsession with binge-watching Netflix. However, one pattern that must be tackled is the trend of sexual misconduct. The “Weinstein effect” dominated the social sphere in 2017. This global trend acted as a chain reaction as people came forward to accuse power-
P E TS
ful men of sexual misconduct. Each new allegation empowered another to come forward and share his or her story. I admired the bravery these individuals demonstrated to break their silence, regardless of the ramifications. New cases continued to throw a negative spotlight onto entertainers, journalists and politicians. It made me wonder what caused these men to act in such inappropriate ways. Perhaps it was a false sense of invincibility or maybe a wave of malicious intent. These actions are unacceptable, no matter what the circumstances may have been. Throughout last year, unlikely offenders emerged. We brushed off some, while holding others to a much higher standard of criticism. Many teens were disappointed to see some of our role models on the disgraced list. With every powerful man, I
begin to think about the powerless women. Hundreds emerged, with anxiety and apprehension about their accusations. Their hesitation wasn’t because they didn’t want to harm the reputation of those being accused, but because they were scared of the criticism that would follow them. Unfortunately, their reluctance was valid. Periodically, critics would spin the stories and claim that some women were exploiting innocent interactions for wealth and attention. It was inexcusable when news organizations disregarded the validity of these stories with little investigation. This issue stretches far beyond what society considers powerful men. A common man can inflict the same amount of emotional pain. Every 98 seconds, a man or woman is the victim of sexual assault. Statistics like that raise the
That New Year’s resolution to shave off extra pounds applies to your pets, too
ELENA BICKER
ARF NOTES
As people make post-holiday fitness and weight-loss resolutions, it’s also a great time to consider healthier goals for your pets. According to a 2017 U.S. study of 2.5 million dogs and 500,000 cats, one in three pets register overweight on the fivepoint body conditioning score utilized by most veterinarians. Other studies estimate that number closer to half of the pet population. While a little chubbiness may look adorable on furry friends, carrying extra weight creates numerous health risks – including diabetes, arthritis, heart disease and several cancers. This jeopardizes a pet’s lifespan and substantially increases healthcare costs for diagnostic testing and medications.
If your pet could stand to lose a few pounds or inches, the solution is as basic and challenging as human weight loss: diet and exercise. Dog workouts seem an easy solution, by adding a few more walks or jogs. However, rainy Bay Area winters interfere with this plan. Set up additional calorieburning opportunities, such as moving food bowls further from your dog’s favorite spot or hiding meals in various locations around the house. This encourages more movement and discourages continuous eating or begging. Find indoor toys or puzzles that encourage activity even with limited space. Exercise becomes more challenging with cats. Ten minutes of active wand or toy play a day makes a world of difference. Don’t fall into the trap of thinking cats become inherently lazy with age. Actively entice them to move off the couch. Meals placed in food toys are an excellent method to keep cats busy and moving. Your veterinarian can offer the best guidance for diet modification. With a variety of food products on the market, it’s easy to tailor nutrition to
pets’ specific needs and weight concerns. Once you’ve selected the ideal diet, portion control is key. Always measure the amount of food given per day and avoid leaving food out during the day or utilizing a self-feeding container. If you can’t monitor intake during the day, purchase an automatic feeder that reveals limited amounts at specific times. Although it’s difficult, stay strong against pleading puppydog eyes and demanding yowls for more food or treats. If you can’t resist, give low-calorie treats like carrot pieces, airpopped popcorn or low-calorie commercial treats. Some of these have as few as 3 calories per piece. Finally, just like with humans, consult medical advice before starting new food or exercise routines for animals. Weight gain might be a symptom of an underlying medical issue. After a full check-up and consultation, you and your pet can work toward a healthier and happier 2018. Elena Bicker is the Executive Director of Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation. She can be reached at (925) 2561ARF (1273)
Meet ARF stars Andre and Rascal
ANDRE
Four-year-old Andre is the very definition of bubbly! This vivacious boy is such a busy bee, always exploring his world and spreading his special brand of love. He is a talented, longlegged dancer who likes throwing down his moves to impress the girls. Andre will surely keep his adoptive family laughing and on their toes. The adoption fee for puppies <6 months is $300, for adult dogs is $250, and
RASCAL
includes a discount on the first six-week session of a manners class. Seven-year-old Rascal is ever-so-cute, with sleek white fur and a lopsided grin. He loves other cats, too! The adoption fee for kittens <6 months $125 and for adult cats is $75. Meet your forever friend at Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation, 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek, during
adoption hours: Noon to 6 pm Wednesday & Thursday, Noon to 7 pm Friday, and Noon to 6 pm Saturday & Sunday.
Would you like to be part of the heroic team that saves the lives of rescued dogs and cats? Can you share your talents to connect people and animals? ARF volunteers are making a difference! For more information see our website, www.arflife.org, or call (925) 2561ARF.
question: What is considered sexual misconduct or assault? Simply put, it is something improper or inappropriate of a sexual nature. This includes a wide range of comments and actions, so think carefully before you act. If you have to think too hard, chances are it’s inappropriate. In a country where the
actions of our most powerful We need to leave sexual leaders have been met with lit- harassment, abuse and miscontle criticism, I look to our duct in the past. Time’s up. youth as the influencers of Aasim is a senior at Concord society. Our slang, lingo and High School. He currently serves as parts of our culture are all prethe ASB President and a CASL cursors to a future society. We Northern CA Director. Additionhave a choice, a very important ally, he is the Journalism Editorone at that, to reform stanIn-Chief and the captain for the dards and embrace respect and CHS Cross Country Team. love for one another.
‘But Not Today’ a riveting family drama
SUNNY SOLOMON
BOOKIN’ WITH SUNNY
The Pioneer editor recommended “But Not Today” by a local author with the caveat that although it may not be what I would have picked, she thought it quite exciting and would appreciate if I gave it a shot. Lisa A. Kerr’s book is a thrilling and, in many ways, thoughtful read. It is a memoir retelling the story of a 68-yearold man who goes missing for a week and the effect that event has on him and his six children. Those six kids are not from the same marriage. While they are chronologically into their adulthood, emotionally they probably are not. The book is as much about David La Vau trying to stay alive after his car, traveling on a narrow, winding, mountain road, plunges into a deep ravine, as it is a story about the survival of his six emotionally estranged children as they attempt to find common ground in their efforts to find their missing father. How does a father vanish for nearly a week before his children slowly come to the realization that he is missing?
He is a dad who, with one exception, seldom returns phone calls from his children and a father who has serious health issues but whose social life often takes precedence over everything else. In short, he’s a man who has through the years paid very little attention to “family.” The siblings don’t communicate with one another, so if dad misses a commitment with one child, that son or daughter will chalk it up to “That’s dad.” The word “missing” would not be relevant. As he drives along the dark, mountain road, bright, glaring lights from an oncoming vehicle suddenly head directly at him – forcing him to make a split decision. He is familiar with the road and knows the danger of pulling too far onto the shoulder. But the unthink-
able occurs, and his unexpected plunge into the ravine is told in a language of riveting, slow motion. “But Not Today” is a very personal story, told from various points of view. Not only do we read the father’s thoughts as he comes to terms with the likelihood he will not survive in such a remote and densely forested location, but there is a spoiler I cannot disclose. Enough to say that he and the wreckage of his car are not alone. His children slowly come to understand that they must come together and share what they individually know about their father – information that may point them in a direction where they, the police and a helicopter pilot might successfully search. All the family members make prayers and promises. The reader knows from the beginning that the father is found alive. We do not know if the siblings will maintain their new closeness or if La Vau will hold to his bargaining promises to God. But if faith is present, hope springs eternal. The book is available on Amazon. Sunny Solomon is a freelance writer and head of the Clayton Book Club. Visit her website at bookinwithsunny.com for her latest recommendations or just to ‘talk books.’
Star Wars ‘Last Jedi’ can’t overcome its limitations
JEFF MELLINGER
SCREEN SHOTS
Exclaiming my favorite Star Wars film to be 2005’s “Episode III: Revenge of the Sith” puts me in a small minority. It’s not the best of the franchise, yet it skillfully portrays the crux of the saga. It took the inevitability of Anakin turning into Darth Vader and made it brutal, emotional and deeply personal. In 2015, “Episode VII: The Force Awakens” brought back old favorites while furthering the storyline for the first time since 1983’s “Episode VI: Return of the Jedi.” “The Force Awakens” was fresh and exciting, setting the franchise on its conclusive path. “Rogue One” from 2016 was the first stand-alone film in the series. In my review, I stated that “it provides a mix of the old and the new that gives us hope that there will always be more stories to tell.” It is in that description where “The Last Jedi” fails us like Vader failing the emperor.
Rey (Daisy Ridley) looks for help from Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill) in the ongoing war against the evil Empire.
When looking for a perfect middle film to a trilogy, one need only look at “The Two Towers” or the obvious “Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back.” A middle film usually does not make any major moves or handle any huge deaths. It really only needs to get two things right: make it easy to connect what came before to the unknown of what comes next and stand as its own film. Director Rian Johnson (behind the terrific mind-bender “Looper”) accomplishes the former with “The Last Jedi” but has very limited success at the latter. The film starts right where “The Force Awakens” left off, with Rey having discovered Luke Skywalker’s whereabouts. We learn why Luke has been hiding and about his reservations in training Rey in the ways
of the Jedi. It’s nice to reconnect with Luke, but it does so at the cost of disconnecting Rey from all the action elsewhere. Mark Hamill was never a great actor, but his eagerness as young Luke in the original trilogy concealed most of his drawbacks. Those weaknesses show up here, making him unconvincing as a tormented, older Luke. Even Chewbacca and his new furry little friends (note: not Ewoks) can’t save the scenes on Luke’s island. While Rey is missing in action, Leia (the late Carrie Fisher in her final role) leads the Rebels against a newly regrouped First Order. It’s another cat-and-mouse game, managed this time by Hux
See Last Jedi, page 15
January 26, 2018
CALENDAR Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR COMMUNITY CALENDAR EVENTS BY 5 P.M. FEB. 14 FOR THE FEB. 23
IN CONCORD
Tuesdays Farmers’ Market
Year round, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Todos Santos Plaza, downtown Concord. pcfma.org.
Second Thursday of the Month Advance Health Care Directives
Legal clinic to prepare and notarize advance health care directives for seniors 60 and older in Contra Costa County. 9:15 11:15 a.m. Concord Senior Center, 2727 Parkside Circle. Free. Call for appointment (925) 671-3320.
Jan. 26 Advocate for a Foster Child
Court Appointed Special Advocates of Contra Costa County conduct information session on how to be a volunteer. Webinar: 12:30 – 2 p.m. Free. Register at cccocasa.org or call Jacqui at (925) 256-7284, ext. 7.
Jan. 28 Super Valentine’s Boutique
Valentine’s gifts, clothing, activities, raffle. 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Hilton Concord, Golden Gate Ballroom, 1970 Diamond Blvd. Free admission. supervalentinesboutique.com.
Feb. 23 Age Strong, Live Long Health Expo
Jan. 26 – 28 “Shrek The Musical JR”
ISSUE. ITEMS MUST BE SUBMITTED BY EMAIL TO
Live, high-energy musical. California Theatre, 351 Railroad Ave., Pittsburg. $20-$25. pittsburgcaliforniatheatre.com. (925) 4271611.
Jan. 26 – Feb. 24 “Red Speedo”
A sharp and compelling play. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $40-$56. centerrep.org.
Jan. 28 “Songs of the Great White Way”
Performed by Franc D’Ambrosio. 3 p.m. El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $12-$29. elcampaniltheatre.com. (925) 757-9500.
Feb. 2 “Pink Floyd Concert Experience”
Presented by West Coast Performing Arts. 8 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $45. lesherartscenter.org. (925) 943-7469.
Feb. 2 – 3 “Harmonious Beauty”
Program composed of four unique ballets and one short film. Del Valle Theatre, 1963 Tice Valley Blvd., Walnut Creek. $25-$47. diabloballet.org.
Resources and information for seniors, families and professionals. Presentations and health screenings. 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Concord Feb. 3 Senior Center, 2727 Parkside Circle. Free. “Rhinestone” cityofconcord.org/healthfair. (925) 671-3320, ext. 1. A salute to the songs of Glen Campbell. 8 p.m. El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $12-$29. elcampaniltheatre.com. (925) 757-9500. IN CLAYTON
Feb. 2 “A Collection of Small Collections”
Feb. 3 “Sinatra Sings the Big Bands”
Feb. 11 Camellia Tea
Feb. 6 “Angelina Ballerina” Story Time
Reception for new display of artifacts and archival materials related to life in the Clayton Valley. 5 – 7 p.m. Clayton Museum, 6101 Main St. Free. (925) 672-0240 or Renee Wing at (925) 212-0940. Clayton Historical Society’s 41st annual Camellia Tea. Open house honoring the Clayton Business and Community Association this year. 1 – 4 p.m. Clayton Museum, 6101 Main St. Free. claytonhistory.org. (925) 672-0240.
Feb. 24 Pancakes and Ponies
Breakfast and fun-filled horse day for the family. Benefits horsemanship education programs. 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Concord Mt. Diablo Trail Ride Association Clubhouse, 1600 Trail Ride Road. $8 kids, $15 adults before Feb. 14; $15-$25 after. diabloequestrianheritage.org.
ON AND AROUND THE MOUNTAIN
Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve programs are available for registration through ebparks.org. Parking fees may apply. For additional information, contact Black Diamond Visitor Center at (510) 544-2750 or bdvisit@ebparks.org.
Jan. 28 Snakes in Winter
Meet our resident snakes. 1 – 3 p.m. Meet at Black Diamond Mines.
Mount Diablo Interpretive Association programs listed are free with the exception of park entrance fee. Go to mdia.org and click on Event Calendar for more information.
Feb. 8 The Lions of Diablo
Wildlife biologist James Hale talks about cougars in the Bay Area. 7 – 9 p.m. Ygnacio Valley Library, 2661 Oak Grove Road, Walnut Creek.
Feb. 18 Salamanders and Amphibians
Red-legged frog
Drop in and learn about amphibians of Contra Costa County. 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Summit Museum.
Save Mount Diablo’s Discover Diablo is a free public hike series. Go to discover-diablo.eventbrite.com for more information.
Jan. 27 Discover Madrone Canyon
Learn about the unique nature on the Madrone Canyon trail. 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. Meet at Rock City Parking Lot. Registration required.
Jan. 30 “State of the Mountain: A Year in Review and Looking Ahead” Annual address by SMD’s Executive Director, Ted Clement. 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. Walnut Creek Library, Oak View Room, 1644 N. Broadway, Walnut Creek. Free. Response required: Shannon Grover at sgrover@savemountdiablo.org or (925) 947-3535.
Feb. 4 Falls Loop Geology Trek
See rocks that formed far out at sea during the age of the dinosaurs. 9 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Meet at Regency Gate Trailhead. Registration required.
Feb. 11 Curry Canyon Ranch
Visit the lower 200 acres of SMD’s Curry Canyon. 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. Meet at Park n’ Ride, 1000 Peacock Creek Drive. Registration required.
EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Thru Jan. 27 “Singin’ in the Rain JR”
Presented by Poison Apple Productions. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $20. lesherartscenter.org. (925) 943-7469.
Thru Feb. 3 “The Sunshine Boys”
Presented by Plotline Theater. Campbell Theater, 636 Ward St., Martinez. $15-$22. campbelltheater.com. (925) 518-3277.
Presented by West Coast Performing Arts. 7:30 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $45. lesherartscenter.org. (925) 943-7469.
newsandcalendar@concordpioneer.com
Feb. 24 “Come Together: The Beatles Concert Experience”
Presented by West Coast Performing Arts. 7:30 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $45. lesherartscenter.org. (925) 943-7469.
Feb. 25 “A Tribute to Glenn Miller and Tex Beneke”
Presented by West Coast Theater Company. 2 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $47-$59. lesherartscenter.org. (925) 943-7469.
Feb. 25 Piano Recital
Presented by Mina with Love for Piano. 6:30 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $25. lesherartscenter.org. (925) 943-7469.
Jan. 30 – Feb. 2 “Puss n’ Boots”
SCHOOLS
A sassy cat promises to solve the problems of a poor miller’s son. LeFevre Theatre, Saint Mary’s College, 1928 St. Mary’s Road, Moraga. $8-$12. stmarys-ca.edu/pussnboots.
CHURCHES
Feb. 17 Annual Daddy-Daughter Dance
Open to the public: girls and dads, uncles, granddads and friends of all ages. Professional portrait, dessert and dancing. Candyland theme. Sponsored by Clayton Community Church. 6:30 – 9 p.m. Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Drive, Clayton. $25 per couple; $5 each additional guest. Register at claytoncc.com/daddydaughter. For more information, contact Jamie Davis at jamie.davis@claytoncc.com or (615) 495-4349.
FUNDRAISERS
2nd and 4th Sundays Pancake Breakfast
Veterans of Foreign Wars serve breakfast to the public: Eggs, pancakes, sausage, beverage. 8 – 11 a.m. VFW Post 1525, 2290 Willow Pass Road, Concord. $5, $3 children under 12. vfwpost1525.org.
Diablo Ballet’s Prima Ballerina Club invites children of all ages. 4:30 – 5:30 p.m. Nordstrom, 3rd Floor, 1200 Broadway Plaza, Walnut Creek. Free. diabloballet.org/prima-ballerinaclub. (925) 943-1775.
Jan. 27 Stars to the Rescue XXVII
Musical gala. Proceeds aid the Animal Rescue Foundation efforts toward saving dogs and cats. 7 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $50-$250. lesherartscenter.org. (925) 943-7469.
Feb. 9 – 11 “The Gondoliers”
A pair of handsome gondoliers suddenly become kings and humor and exuberance abound. Presented by Lamplighters. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $49$54. lesherartscenter.org. (925) 943-7469.
Page 15
Jan. 27 Super Bowl Crab Feed Party Diablo Ballet Story Time, Feb. 6 in Walnut Creek
Feb. 10 James Ehnes
Violinist. Presented by Chamber Music San Francisco. 2:30 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $55. lesherartscenter.org. (925) 943-7469.
Feb. 10 “This One’s for You”
The songs of Barry Manilow. 2 p.m. El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $12-$29. elcampaniltheatre.com. (925) 757-9500.
Feb. 11 “Beethoven Mass in C”
Performed by Diablo Symphony Orchestra. 3:30 p.m. Walnut Creek Presbyterian Church, 1801 Lacassie Ave., Walnut Creek. $35. diablosymphony.org.
Feb. 11 “The Hallelujah Girls”
Presented by The Vagabond Players. 2 p.m. El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $12-$17. elcampaniltheatre.com. (925) 757-9500.
Feb. 14, 16 “The All Hands On Deck Show”
Authentic American roadshow and radio broadcast re-creation circa 1942. Feb. 14: El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $30-$40. elcampaniltheatre.com. (925) 757-9500. Feb. 16: Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $52.50-$62.50. lesherartscenter.org. (925) 943-7469.
Feb. 15 – Mar. 3 “Jubilee”
In a dystopian future, brutal civil war ends in a fragile peace. B8 Theatre Company, 2292 Concord Blvd., Concord. $15-$25. b8theatre.org. (925) 890-8877.
Feb. 17 “Chicken, Chitlins and Caviar”
A musical soul food feast that celebrates music in the African American culture. 2 and 7:30 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $40. lesherartscenter.org. (925) 943-7469.
Feb. 17 – 18 “Ludwig and Leonard”
Presented by Contra Costa Chamber Orchestra. 2 p.m. Feb. 17: El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $7-$15. elcampaniltheatre.com. (925) 757-9500. Feb. 18: Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $10-$30. lesherartscenter.org. (925) 943-7469.
Feb. 23 “Improv For Good”
Presented by Funny Bones Productions. 7:45 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $15. lesherartscenter.org. (925) 943-7469.
Feb. 23 – 25 “Mr. Toad’s Mad Adventures”
Presented by El Campanil Children’s Theatre. El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $9-$13. elcampaniltheatre.com. (925) 757-9500.
Wear your favorite team apparel. Food, auction. Proceeds benefit charitable causes of the Knights of Columbus Council 6038. 6 p.m. St. Bonaventure, 5562 Clayton Road, Concord. $50. Tickets available in church office or contact Mike Farnham at (925) 6723422 or (925) 766-2864.
AT THE LIBRARY
The Concord Library is at 2900 Salvio St. Programs are free unless otherwise noted. See full schedule of events at ccclib.org or (925) 646-5455. Jan. 27: Genealogy Workshop, 10 a.m. Registration required. Jan. 29: Family Game Night, 7 p.m. Feb. thru Apr. 14: AARP Tax Help, Fri. and Sat., 10 a.m. 3:30 p.m. Registration required. Feb. 4: Concord Kitting and Crochet Group, 1:15 p.m. Feb. 5: Kindergarten Countdown, 2 p.m. Registration required. Feb. 5: STEAM: Open Explorations, 7 p.m. Feb. 7: Tween Giftables, 4 p.m. Registration required. Feb. 11: Concord Mystery Book Club, 2:30 p.m. Feb. 12: Kids’ Movie Monday, 7 p.m. Feb. 14: Valentine’s Day Crafternoon, 4 p.m.
The Clayton Library is at 6125 Clayton Road. Programs are free unless otherwise noted. See full schedule of events at claytonlibrary.org or call (925) 673-0659. Feb. Feb. Feb. Feb.
1 – 28: Elephant and Piggie Reading Club 12: Clayton Knits, 1:30 p.m. 12: Clayton Library Book Club, 7 p.m. 15: Kindergarten Countdown. Story Workshop, 2 p.m.
GOVERNMENT
1st, 2nd and 4th Tuesdays Concord City Council
6:30 p.m., Council Chamber, Concord Civic Center, 1950 Parkside Dr. cityofconcord.org.
1st and 3rd Wednesdays Concord Planning Commission
7 p.m. Council Chamber, Concord Civic Center, 1950 Parkside Dr. cityofconcord.org.
Last Jedi, from page 14
(Domhnall Gleeson), the cliché evil general making Bond villain mistakes in pursuit. Finn, Poe and BB-8 all return but, try as they might, they just aren’t Luke, Han and R2-D2. Laura Dern’s first appearance in the saga goes nowhere as we are not invested in her character enough to care about her monumental decision. Even the inevitable good vs. evil fight does not bring anything new to the story. Supreme Commander Snoke taking on Rey in a tugof-war over Kylo Ren’s allegiance smacks of the emperor,
Vader and Luke in “Return of the Jedi.” The best thing going for “The Last Jedi” is that its visuals are as good as or better than all the other films. Unfortunately, that is not enough to call it great. Settle for average, we must. C+
Jeff Mellinger is a screen writer and film buff. He holds a BA in Film Studies and an MFA in film production. He lives in Concord. Email comments to editor@claytonpioneer.com.
Page 16
T H E ARTS
Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
January 26, 2018
‘Shrek’ is hilarious fun for the family
SALLY HOGARTY
STAGE STRUCK
Congratulations to all the nominees and winners at the 39th annual Shellie Awards. Those taking home the prized Shellie statuettes included Pittsburg Community Theatre for Tiana Paulding’s choreography in “Hairspray,” Martinez’s Onstage Theatre for John Lytle’s lighting design in “My Three Angels,” Brentwood Community Theatre for Amanda Maxwell as outstanding supporting actress in the musical “Crazy for You” and Clayton Theatre Company for Teresa Grosserode as outstanding actress for the play “Moon Over Buffalo” and well as for La Tonya Watt’s direction of the same play. While enjoying its award,
Hailey Crowden
The cast of Pittsburg Community Theatre’s “Hairspray” backstage after winning the Shellie for choreography.
Yasmin Mari
Michael Hackett as Donkey and Nayeli Roman as Dragon in “Shrek, the Musical” at the California Theater Jan. 27 and 28.
Pittsburg Community The- Shrek to life in “Shrek the atre is also hard at work Musical Jr.” Based on the bringing that lovable ogre Oscar-winning animated film and the Broadway musical, the production follows Shrek as he leads a cast of fairytale The Tony-Award-Winning Musical misfits on an adventure to rescue a princess. Irreverently funny and full of good family Custom Made Theater fun, the play is a great way to 533 Sutter St. introduce younger family members to the joy of live in San Francisco performance.
Man of La Mancha Live Onstage!
(2 blocks off Union Square)
San Francisco critics love this production
Through Feb. 17 Wednesdays 7:30 pm Thurs-Sat. 8 pm
(415) 798-2682
Tickets $30-$49
Sat. matinees, 2 pm – Jan 27, Feb 3, 10, 17
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Directed by Lena Timrott, the show features Adrian Bustamante as Shrek and Chloe Beresford-Wood as Fiona. “Shrek” runs Jan. 2728 at the California Theatre, 351 Railroad Ave., Pittsburg. Call 925-427-1611 or go to w w w. p i t t s b u r g c a l i f o r n i a theatre.com.
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“Nothing On,” as those amorous backstage adventures and flubbed lines lead to friction between cast members. Be prepared for lots of slamming doors, falling trousers and even flying sardines. The cast features Michael Doppe, Ayelet Firstenberg, Jennifer Stark, Brandy Collazo, Hannah Keller, Ross Neuenfeldt, Salim Razawi and David Bryant. David Judson, who is also in the cast, directs the Tony Award-winning show Jan. 27Feb. 11 at Pleasanton’s Firehouse Arts Center, 4444 Railroad Ave. Call 925-931-4848 or go to the website www.firehousearts.org. Center Repertory swims into the new year with Lucas Hnath’s “Red Speedo.” It’s a compelling story about swimming, survival of the fittest and hopes of a level playing field – or of leveling the field oneself. The tale focuses on the eve of the Olympic trials, as pressure builds for one swimmer as he ponders a deal with Speedo along with family perils. Directed by Markus Potter,
the show features Michael J. Asberry as the coach, Max Carpenter as the swimmer, Rosie Hallett as Lydia and Gabriel Marin as Peter. “Red Speedo” runs through Feb. 24 at Walnut Creek’s Lesher Center, 1601 Civic Dr. Call 925-943SHOW or go to www.lesherartscenter.org. Get the inside scope from Matthew Carnahan, creator, producer, writer and director of “House of Lies.” The Walnut Creek native will tell all in “Home Grown Talent 2,” a lecture at Walnut Creek’s Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr. Produced by Kim Watts Productions and 950 Studios, the show includes a special screening of “House of Lies” season 5 finale, which filmed in Cuba. For more information about this show, call 925943-SHOW or go to www.lesherartscenter.org.
Two of Contra Costa County’s funniest actors team up for Neil Simon’s “The Sunshine Boys,” running through Feb. 3 at the Campbell Theater. Directed by Matthew Davis, the show stars Jerry Motta and Randy Anger. In this poignant comedy, Simon reunites an old, successful vaudevillian team – Lewis and Clark. The two split up 11 years before the play begins. Clark, struggling with memory loss, is convinced by his talent agent nephew to reunite with Lewis for a CBS special. Old arguments and agitations surface, causing problems as the two struggle with each other and their own infirmities. Sally Hogarty is well known The play premiered on around the Bay Area as a newspaBroadway in 1972 and went per columnist, theatre critic and on to be a feature film starworking actress. She is the editor of ring George Burns and Walthe Orinda News. Send comments ter Matthau. Woody Allen to sallyhogarty@gmail.com and Peter Falk also made it into a TV movie in 1996. Plotline Theater company is producing the play at the Campbell Theatre, 636 Ward St., Martinez. For tickets, call 925-518-3277. Pacific Coast Repertory Theatre continues the fun with Michael Frayn’s delightful farce “Noises Off.” Here’s a spoof (or is it?) of theater folk with a susceptibility to out-of-control egos, memory loss and passionate affairs – making every performance a high-risk adventure. (I think I’ve worked with a few of these people.) Berenice Sullivan This hilarious play-within- Pacific Coast Repertory’s production of “Noises Off” ina-play captures a touring the- cludes Ayelet Firstenberg, left, David Judson, Michael ater troupe’s production of Doppe, Ross Neuenfeldt and Hannah Keller.
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Page 17
Local owls really do give a hoot
STACI HOBBET
ON THE MOUNTAIN
If hearing the hoot of a great horned owl always gives you a deep thrill, you’re not alone. Their calls seem otherworldly, rising like spirits out of the darkness – especially if you hear a haunting duet. If you do, pay attention to the pitches: The male’s voice is the lower of the two, a deep, polished hoo that rises in tempo as he goes. Owls nest early. Hooting picks up in December, when the males begin to reinforce their claim to their nesting territory. By now, the birds are househunting while buffing up their long-term relationships. They’re not picky about nest sites. They’ll repurpose someone’s old pile of twigs or accept a cavity in a tree. They like an old
snag or a ledge, are drawn to pipes and cliffs and will establish squatter’s rights in abandoned buildings. There is more than one answer to why they nest so much earlier than smaller birds like sparrows or finches. Great horneds are big birds and take longer to mature than songbirds. And while the owls have powerful hearing and vision, it still takes trial and error and time for young owls to learn the complicated hunting skills they need to survive. It’s also possible that rodents are more easily found before the grasses grow tall, giving the little guys additional visual and audio camouflage. Three owls are common to the mountain and our region: the great horned, the barn owl and the Western screech owl. It’s easy to tell their more common calls apart, so long as you don’t expect their names to give you a clue. In fact, it’s the barn owl that screeches, not the screech owl. The screech owl gives out a long series of gentle tones that sound like a bouncing pingpong ball. All three may live in close proximity to one another, as they do in my Walnut Creek
See Owls, page 19
Dirk Muehlner
In the foothills of Mount Diablo last spring, two great horned owl nestlings approach their first flight.
Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
January 26, 2018
Fashion for 2018, from ultra violet to tinsel fringe
SUSAN SAPPINGTON
CLOTHESUP
You don’t need to spend too much time in the new year before you see what fashion trends are going to dominate 2018. Designers and all the incredibly stylish people seem to be on the same page about a handful of trends: a certain type of coat, a particular kind of sleeve. Before you know it, those trends will be at your neighborhood purveyor of fast-fashion. From there, you won’t be able to go anywhere without noticing them. Here are some fashion trends I’m betting on big for 2018: Ultra violet. Pantone announced 2018’s Color of the Year to be ultra violet, “an enchanting purple shade that offers designers versatility of expression.” Pantone says the shade represents “our shared desire for deeper understanding in an increasingly complex landscape and our eagerness to experiment to reach that level.” It’s already had a presence on the spring 2018 runways, so expect to see the saturated purple hue everywhere in 2018. People who love purple are sure to be excited about this. Balloon sleeves. Sleeves got super-sized in 2017. The next iteration is voluminous blouses that feel a little bit 19th century, a little bit Louis Vuitton. Designers have been playing around with the silhouette for a while, but now luxury brands like Burberry are joining in on the fun.
Left, lacy dress shows off ultra-violet, the new color of the season; Center, winter fashion is all about the sleeve, from cutout to this red sweatshirt’s balloon sleeve; Right, the classy look of sheer lace over a black bustier works for day or night.
Bike shorts. The spring runways have confirmed it: The ’90s-style bike shorts will be the inescapable trend of 2018, whether you like it or not. Kim Kardashian has been on this comeback train for a while, but her penchant for the thigh-hugging bottoms were validated on the runways. Plastic jackets. Calvin Klein has reignited our interest in super-slick coats and accessories. Two seasons after he first sent them down the runway, we’ve begun to notice more plastic-look jackets on the street and at our favorite retailers than we have since the heyday of “The Matrix.” Trenches, moto jackets, overcoats – you
name it. Perfect for foggy, rainy days. Disco flair. It wouldn’t be a fashion trend roundup if I didn’t mention a decade suddenly making a comeback. We’ve already seen the return of the ’90s, and now we’re seeing designers’ fascination with ’70s disco manifest with all-over sequins, power suits and embellished bustiers. Tinsel fringe. You can leave the suede fringe in Coachella’s past. In 2018, the boho-chic trend gets festive and futuristic – rendered in tinsel and other stringy metallic materials. Whether it’s neck-to-ankle fringe or tiny accents on all-over silver sequins, this trend is all about a “more is more” mentality.
Measured sheer. Sheer, mesh and other translucent fabrics may have once been considered strictly nighttime wear, but no more. These pieces are elegant, playful and, yes, see-through. When worn over a slip dress, with plain trousers or a leather bustier, the overall look says chic rather than risqué. Start slowly or embrace a trend with gusto. You never know how long they’ll last, so enjoy them while they are here. Next month, I’ll address the looks for men in 2018. Need a closet audit or help with your wardrobe? Contact Susan Sappington, personal wardrobe stylist, at Susan.sappington@jhilburnpartner.com.
Hawaii a spectacular winter getaway
For breathtaking views, visit Kauai’s Napali Coast.
ROBERT CASEY PLACES TO GO
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*Sample price is per person, per night, based on a 7-night stay in double occupancy in a Club category room on select weeks at Val Thorens, France, Serre-Chevalier, France. Prices on other dates, room categories and/or at other resorts may vary. Blackout dates apply, including holidays and other dates. Offer requires a 7-night minimum stay. Available at select resorts. Does not include airfare. Valid for new individual bookings only for select travel dates with check-in on or after November 25, 2017 and check-out on or before April 21, 2018 and must be booked by January 31, 2018. Offer is subject to capacity control and may increase at any time. General Conditions: Blackout dates apply, including holidays and other dates. Club Med Membership fees of $60 per adult and $30 per child are additional. Other restrictions apply including brochure terms and cancellation/change fees. Not responsible for errors or omissions. Void where prohibited or restricted by law. CST#: 2020955-50.
If you’re tired of winter’s chill, a tropical paradise is just a five-hour flight away. In winter, you can get great deals on airfares and lodging in Hawaii. Plus, the crowds are smaller and the weather is still fantastic. Kauai is my favorite island. Other popular sites are Maui, Oahu and the Big Island, as well as smaller islands such as Lanai. Many travelers don’t realize they can “have it all” by booking intra-island flights. The first time I visited Hawaii, I spent three days on Maui, two on Oahu and five on Kauai. All of them have their special charms. The average daytime winter temperature in Hawaii is 78. While that’s lower than the 85degree average in summer, it’s still relatively balmy. But it’s rainier in winter, so bring an umbrella. You can limit your rain exposure by staying on the southern or western shores of many of the islands. Your best bets are Kaanapali or Kihei on Maui, Waikiki Beach on Oahu, Waikoloa and the Kohala Coast on Hawaii Island and
the Four Seasons Resort on Lanai. Kauai is the rainiest of the islands in winter, but staying at Poipu or Waimea will give you the best chance of beating the rain gods. Winter is the best time to enjoy surfing competitions, especially on Oahu’s North Shore. Among the famous spots to watch: Banzai Pipeline at Ehukai Beach Park, Sunset Beach or Laniakea. On Maui, Hookipa is a popular spot for surfers. On Kauai, you can find giant waves at Hanalei. Whale watching is another top attraction in winter. Hawaii’s whale season lasts November to May, with the peak between January and March. Some of the best spots to watch for whales are Halona Blowhole on Oahu, the Sanctuary Education Center on Maui, Kapaa Beach Park on Hawaii and Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge on Kauai.
If You Go
Robert Casey
Page 18
Kilauea Point, with its historic lighthouse, is one of the many reasons Kauai is my favorite island. In Hanalei, you can see the town where Puff the Magic Dragon “lived by the sea” or Lumahai Beach, made famous in the movie “South Pacific.” On the Wailua River, take a kayak trip on Hawaii’s only navigable river to a jungle waterfall. In Waimea Canyon (the Grand Canyon of the Pacific), drive up to Kalalau Lookout for views of the dramatic and mystical Napali Coast. Just be sure to wait for the clouds to part, as they do frequently, providing one of the most breathtaking views anywhere on Earth.
Robert Casey is president of Fair Winds Cruises & Expeditions in Clayton. You can contact him at 925-787-8252 or caseyrdc@gmail.com. Or visit fairwindscruises.com.
Airfare. Flights to Hawaii are far less expensive in the winter. For example, round-trip fares to Honolulu are as low as $337 from San Jose, $357 from San Francisco and $348 from Oakland. Hawaiian Airlines also has inter-island flights at great prices in the winter. For example, flights from Honolulu to Kauai and then on to Maui are as low as $169 a person in January. Getting around. Outside of Honolulu, you’ll need a rental car to see many of the prime attractions around the islands. Many roads, especially the famous Road to Hana, are similar to Highway 1 in California. Be sure to leave time to see the sights. Where to stay. There are wonderful resorts on each island, and it’s a good idea to pay for an ocean view. After all, there’s nothing like going to sleep to the sound of crashing surf.
January 26, 2018
KEVIN PARKER
HIT
THE
TRAIL
Christmas came early for me this year, on Dec. 22 to be exact. And it came wrapped up from the city of Oakland in the form of Redwood Regional Park. Can a trail change your life? I am still grappling with that statement, but this park and the trails I explored neatly tucked into the Oakland Hills have topped my secret favorites list. I’d done my research, consulted
Redwood’s French Trail 5 miles of rapture Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
topo maps and scoped out my route. All that went out the door the second I stepped unto French Trail. Redwood Regional Park is only 1,800 acres but has more than 36 miles of hiking trails and provides hiking, camping, biking and, if you are lucky, ladybug breeding (in January/February). Neighboring Joaquin Miller and Robertson Parks should not be missed, but let’s not forget the trees. I’d come for the trails, but the sheer number and size of the redwoods in this park were an added bonus. I recommend Skyline Gate for access and facilities. This is a popular spot, so get there early
Redwood Regional Park
Trails: West Ridge, French, Fern Stream Distance: 5.3 miles Elevation Gain: 1,280 feet Duration: 2 hours Level: Moderate to strenuous Getting there: Skyline Gate Staging Area at 8490 Skyline Blvd., Oakland. Restrooms, water, maps. Dog friendly but check web for rules; www.ebparks.org.
Owls, from page 18
neighborhood. You may have them close by too, if you and your neighbors are rejecting the temptation to use rodenticides. These chemicals accumulate in the bodies of adult owls rather than killing them outright, but it’s a different matter for the nestlings. A poisoned rat can kill a young owl. Or your dog or cat, for that matter. Owls and other birds of prey, such as hawks and kites, will keep the rodent population down for you if you let them.
However, you still have to seal your house properly. A mouse in your house is safe from an owl. To learn more about owls and compare their calls side by side, visit Cornell University’s allaboutbirds.org. It’s excellent, it’s free and you don’t have to sign up to use its resources, which are rich and deep. Staci Hobbet is a docent with the Mount Diablo Interpretive Association; mdia.org.
for a parking spot. West Ridge Trail leaves the parking lot as a well-traveled fire road. I was initially concerned about the number of people and dogs at the trailhead, but within 5 minutes, they were all a memory. West Ridge is cut high into the hillside with “tops of the trees” views for the first part of the hike. A short distance puts you onto French Trail as you begin a ridgeline descent via a rocky and roller-coastery singletrack trail. I found myself hootin’ in the woods with the morning sun as my companion on this brisk winter day. French continues into endless mossy trees and a thicket of canopy barely pierced by the morning sun. The sheer magnificence of the redwoods gave this part of the hike a “land of the lost” feel, which made it seem like I had the park to myself. Tres Sendanas and Starflower trails are worthy options, but French had me hooked. I was on a quest to take it as far as time would permit. Expect big drops in elevation as well as aggressive and straightup grinders through ravines and over hillsides. But all these ups and downs are rewarded with picturesque scenery on every step of the trail. I wanted to hike French Trail until the end, but I was on a schedule and used Fern Trail to make a final push into the valley below. Pick up Stream Trail, a wide and easy to navigate road that meanders along Redwood Creek, back up to Skyline Gate. Unfortunately, due to minimal rains this season, the creek was reduced to a trickle. There are two things I want you to remember about Redwood Regional Park. No. 1: French Trail. No. 2: French Trail. As a hiker who has cov-
Page 19
Contact Kevin Parker with comered a trail or two, I put French Don’t take my word for it, up there with some of the best see it for yourself. Get out ments or questions by email at LukeHollywood@gmail.com trails of all time. there and enjoy.
Kevin Parker
For sheer beauty and quiet, the French Trail in Redwood Regional Park is high on my favorites list. Towering redwoods and meandering streams reward the hardy hiker willing to climb a little.
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Put yard care on Winter to-do list
Page 20
Concord Pioneer • www.concordpioneer.com
NICOLE HACKETT
GARDEN GIRL
With the new year, your landscape and garden deserve to get in shape, too. This year, walk your landscape monthly and address issues before they become problems. There’s always work that needs to be done. Our citrus has ripening fruit and its leaves are beginning to yellow, lawns are turning brown, azaleas and camellias need a little help and we all know it’s time to prune roses. Citrus generally has a hard
time in our area, especially trees less than 10 years old. In January, lemon, orange and lime trees are trying to mature their fruit. We can help them along by applying a fertilizer that concentrates on the fruit, not growth. Look for a product such as a 2-10-10 fertilizer in a water-soluble form, or 0-10-10 granular. Apply this type of bud and bloom fertilizer monthly through March. Then begin feeding with citrus food. If your citrus is looking more yellow than usual, apply a dose of iron now and again in February. Always follow package directions. Lawn care is often left for spring, but start this year off right and tend to your lawn now. This time of year, you should spread a thin layer of a rich soil conditioner on top of the entire lawn. Lawns are production
evergreen shrubs that flower winter through late spring. I lump these two families of shrubs together since we treat them the same ways. Camellias flower first, mainly during late winter, and azaleas start to flower in March. We need to help these evergreens along now
by feeding with the same bud and bloom formula that you would give to citrus. Use watersoluble 2-10-10 or granular 0-1010. Follow up with a dose of iron in February to encourage super-green leaves. Rose pruning should be done between Super Bowl Sunday and Valentine’s Day. Regardless of how many flowers your bushes still have, prune them back. An annually pruned rose should take less than five minutes to prune. As you approach a rose to prune, begin at the bottom of the plant. You should remove all the buds, blooms and leaves left on the bush. A well-pruned hybrid tea, grandiflora or floribunda rose should have 3-5 nice, straight, clean canes without any leaves. The object of pruning is to
for an interesting way to add texture, pattern, color and depth. Whether they are structural or decorative, beams can be another unique addition to your ceiling. All buildings require some sort of structural beams for support. Some structures have exposed beams, while others are hidden within drywall. If you have exposed structural beams, embrace these functional design elements. Whether they are stained or painted wood, consider reworking their finish with your contractor to better fit your design aesthetic – bringing not so interesting beams to life. If you would like to introduce beams into your living space, work with your contractor to determine where structural beams would be positioned if
they were visible. The key to adding decorative beams is to make them look as if they are real structural supports and not randomly placed on your ceiling. Many vendors sell faux wood beams or real wooden box beams with a modern or traditional look that can be incorporated into your ceiling layout. Meanwhile, a coffered ceiling has a series of organized boxes made of exquisite trim. You may have seen one in a hotel lobby, ballroom, swanky restaurant or chic kitchen. If you have the height and a good amount of ceiling square footage, this is a lovely way to accentuate and customize your ceiling. Wood paneling, beams and coffered ceilings are all chic but require an investment of labor and materials. If you’re looking
Your camellias will be blooming this month. Help them along now by feeding with the same bud and bloom formula that you would give to citrus.
plants, and they need lots of nutrients to keep them looking their best. Spreading a layer of soil conditioner now, while it’s raining, will add nutrients naturally. Use a soil conditioner rich in chicken manure, earthworm castings and bat guano. Camellias and azaleas are
January 26, 2018
remove most of the past year’s growth, as well as all the crossing canes and lateral branches. Remove all gray canes. You may have to use a cordless saw to get through thick wood. Don’t worry how thick the canes are, you won’t hurt the rose. Once you’ve pruned, it’s time to fertilize. Here is a famous rose fertilizer recipe: ½ c. 16-16-16 fertilizer ½ c. bone meal ½ c. granular iron ½ c. alfalfa meal 2 T. Epsom salt Work into soil along drip line and top-dress with an inch of chicken manure; water in. Nicole is the Garden Girl at R&M Pool, Patio, Gifts and Garden. You can contact her with questions or comments by email at Gardengirl@claytonpioneer.com
Look up – and add some pizzazz to your ceiling
When pulling together a living space, there are often design elements that have no purpose other than being decorative. A bench in the living room that no one will ever use for seating. A chest of drawers at the end of the bedroom hallway that stores nothing but acts as a sturdy foundation for a hanging mirror. Decorative paneling on the ends of a kitchen island that ties back to the perimeter cabinetry. The ceiling falls into this “fabulous, but not functional” design category. This “fifth wall” is a magnet that attracts helium filled balloons for eternity – or at least until the helium decides to dissipate. The surface typically contains nothing more than junction boxes for pendants, recessed lighting and chandeliers. Though
Warm wood and exposed beams give drama to this kitchen.
ousted because of its old school ties to “popcorn texture,” the ceiling is a major opportunity to add design intrigue. One of my favorite ceiling treatments is wood paneling. Whether it’s tongue and groove
pine with a clear finish, reclaimed and rustic boards or a crisp, Nantucket inspired look, paneling adds an amazing finished look that paint alone cannot achieve. Consider this decorative treatment if you’re looking
JENNIFER LEISCHER
DESIGN & DÉCOR
to boost your ceiling appeal, consider paint or wallpaper or even using trim to create a unique design that imitates a more substantial presence. Adding texture with trim, or the illusion of texture with paint and wallpaper, will make for a more interesting surface. Jennifer Leischer is the owner of J. Designs Interior Design based in Clayton. Contact her with questions, comments and suggestions at jenna@j-designs.com.
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