SEP 15 The Pioneer 2023

Oct. 28, 4-6 pm

Dress up the kids, the cars & the pooches. Candy & prizes for the best costumes.

Watch the Oct. Pioneer for more details

15, 2023

Grayson Creek desilting project defense against future flooding

PLEASANT

HILL – Sun

sparkling off Grayson Creek as it flows near Imhoff Place is a silent reminder that the water source is ever-present, even as drought conditions take a temporary hiatus.

In preparation for future flooding concerns due to heavy rains, as occurred last winter, a $1.5 million desilting effort is underway to alleviate those issues and reestablish the original creek flow.

Started in mid-August and expected to be completed by Oct. 16, the project includes removing and trucking away upwards of 1,600 cubic yards of silt – sometimes more – daily.

KEEPING THE PUBLICSAFE

About 25,000 cubic yards of material is expected to be removed as part of this project, according to Randy Sanders, senior civil engineer with the Contra Costa County Public Works Department’s Design/Construction Division.

“The benefit of the sediment removal provides much-needed hydraulic capacity within the reach of Grayson that has shown the need for additional freeboard based on some of the storm events that have occurred over the last few years,” said Sanders. “At times, the channel embankments had only a few inches before overtopping may have occurred during these last two seasons.”

Sanders says the desilting is essential.

“Though some of the storms were much greater than a 500-year event and, in most cases, the channels were designed to contain a 100-year storm or a 50-year storm plus freeboard, the restored hydraulic capacity is a necessity for public safety,” he said.

Pedestrians and motorists crossing the bridge along Chilpancingo Parkway, across from CarMax, will see crews working in the area of the creek behind Target. Drivers should expect delays near Imhoff Place along Pacheco Boulevard and

See Creek, page 9

Clayton’s green plan includes charging stations, solar upgrades

Using a major infusion of cash for green projects, the City Council awarded $2.1 million to Climatec to fund transformational work.

The plan includes improved water main infrastructure and water conservation, electric vehicle (EV) charging stations at the library and other benefits. To help fund the project, the city will use a $1.9 million loan obtained from the California Energy Commission at 1% interest.

All five members of the council are supportive of the green initiative.

“The project benefits include energy-efficient lighting, water

Third time’s a charm as Concord chooses Brookfield

With the developer promising “one team, working together,” the City Council unanimously selected Brookfield Properties as the new Master Developer for the Concord Naval Weapons Station.

“We are excited to be here,” said Josh Roden, Northern California president for Brookfield Properties in San Ramon. “Concord Naval is quite special. It’s amazing.”

The council, sitting as the Local Reuse Authority, made the decision on Aug. 26 after the only other candidate – Housing America Partners – withdrew its application. According to Guy Bjerke, Concord’s director of Economic Development and Base Reuse, Housing America’s paperwork didn’t provide enough information to be considered.

“While we would prefer to have more developer teams to choose from, we are fortunate to have a company with Brookfield’s reputation and capabilities continuing in our process,” Bjerke said.

A SECONDCHANCE FOR BROOKFIELD

conservation, updated HVAC and building automation systems, an EV charging station at the library and solar PV at the maintenance yard,” noted Councilmember Kim Trupiano.

City offices will receive a major update as part of the improvements.

“The solar PV structures alone are projected to offset the site’s electrical load 100%, including library, City Hall and maintenance facility, creating a Net Zero Energy (NZE) site,” Trupiano said.

That means the city offices will balance their electricity needs with energy produced from renewable, zero-emission sources like solar power.

City Manager Bret Prebula says Clayton may have the first

Climatec

$2.1 million in green upgrades will pay off with utility savings, lower maintenance costs and less pressure on staff

City Hall in the county to achieve the Net Zero feat. “I know the county itself has a lot of buildings that are that way,” he added.

The undertaking will kick

off this month and take about a year. At the end of that time, Trupiano says, “our city will be able to address its aging infra-

Brookfield Properties, based in San Ramon, will be the third developer for the 2,300-acre project – after the council cut ties with Lennar in 2020 and Concord First Partners earlier this year. CFP was chosen over Brookfield in 2021. Brookfield has been involved in six Northern California master planned projects, including Pier 70 in San Francisco, BLVD. in Dublin and Bishop Ranch in San Ramon. Calling its contingent of 11 subcontractors an “unmatched toolbox,” Roden said they will “refresh” the 11-year-old CNWS plan. “We look forward to reimagining what it will become, while respecting the area plan and the countless

See Climatec, page 9 See CNWS, page 9

Giant sculptures to join murals in city’s public art program

CONCORD – Public art has come a long way since the controversial spirit poles were installed – and later crumbled – on Concord Avenue nearly 35 years ago.

Following the success of nine public art murals last year, organizers are gearing up to

install several public art sculptures around the city starting in early October. They are also working with muralists to paint large-sized works in several spots in Concord.

Credit for part of the art expansion goes to the city’s Creative Concord program and Local Edition Creative, the East Bay arts organization that produced the city’s art program and helped spearhead the murals painted on Concord buildings last year. You can find murals at Vinnie’s Bar &

See Sculpture, page 8

David Scholz Work continues as part of the desilting of Grayson Creek in this view from the bridge on Imhoff Place. The project will remove

yards of silt, increasing the creek’s hydraulic capacity.

Contributed photo

The Dahlia, Metal Poppy and the Giraffe duo are three of the temporary art installations that will be on display in Concord from Oct. 8 until Jan. 8, 2023. The Dahlia will be facing Todos Santos Park, the Poppy will be outside of the BrendenTheatres and the Giraffeduo will be clearly visible off of Clayton Rd. installed at the Concord Historical Society.

BEV BRITTON The Pioneer

DAVID SCHOLZ Correspondent

VINCE MARTELLACCI Correspondent

KRISTIN BENDER Correspondent

Buchanan event spotlights sky-high opportunities for girls

Legends of aviation paved the way for generations to pursue careers linked to the wild blue yonder. And this month, young women will take a deep dive into multiple facets of the aeronautics industry as part of Girls in Aviation Day (GIAD).

The Sept. 23 event at Buchanan Field, a first of its kind in the East Bay, is co-hosted by the Mount Diablo Pilots Association and Women in Aviation International San Francisco-Bay Area Chapter.

Fifty-seven people, ages 616, registered for the event. A total of 73 expressed interest ahead of the Sept. 1 deadline, according to organizers.

“I want them to know they are not limited in what they can be or achieve because they are girls,” said event spokesperson Keri Martin.

“They will learn aviation is about so much more than just being a pilot or flight attendant. There are hundreds of opportunities and career paths in the aviation industry, and there are opportunities for every level of education,” Martin added.

FAMILYHISTORY INAVIATION

Among those eager for the experience is Kaydence Dolan, 13, an 8th-grader at Foothill Middle School and a member of Girl Scout Troop 30810. She has grown up learning about aviation from her great-grandfather, who shared stories of his days flying.

Further stoking Dolan’s passion is her grandmother, Diane Samuels, who spoke of the lasting impressions made upon her by her father.

“My earliest memory of flying with him was probably when I was about 4 to 5 years old and

he took me out for a spin,” recalled Samuels. “I was terrified – but hooked.

“I was so fortunate to be able to have the opportunities to fly with my father for many years. I have wonderful memories – and some fun stories,” she added. Dolan said her interest in avi-

ation also was sparked by learning “how Amelia Earhart was able to be a famous pilot at a time when women didn’t do that.”

VARIETY OF ACTIVITIES

The GIAD itinerary will begin like any day at the airport

with a customary morning briefing, including safety items. The plan calls for the participants to be divided into five groups and rotate to at least five aviationrelated activities: aviation communications, the physics of flying, aircraft assembly and inspection, a moon habitat and a flight simulator. They will have time to talk with and ask questions of individuals representing different aspects of aviation. Pilots, mechanics, inspectors, air traffic controllers and airport operations staff will explain how they became involved in aviation.

In addition, participants will get up-close experiences with aircraft flying in especially for the day. Pilots will be standing by to give them a tour of the aircraft and to answer any questions regarding learning to fly.

Also slated to be on hand is Contra Costa County Supervisor Diane Burgis (District 3), whose assignments include serving as

the chair of the county’s Airport Committee. Joining Burgis to share remarks with the girls will be Virginia Wimmer, deputy secretary for Women Veterans Affairs at the state Department of Veterans Affairs, and Tifani Bartow, deputy director of Operation and Grants at the state Commission on the Status of Women and Girls.

The county Board of Supervisors was set to formally commemorate the event at the Sept. 12 meeting, with a proclamation from Burgis and her co-chair on the Airport Committee, Supervisor Ken Carlson (District 4).

To ensure it is a unique and wonderful experience, the following also are lending support: The Ninety Nines-Bay Cities 99s Chapter, Aviation Personnel International, Hodge Flight Services, Yes Aviation Services, Captain Mama, Isabelle Soloaga and AWAM Chapter 16 Bay Area.

Understanding Fair Plan key to today’s home insurance market

Insurance has become a common topic of conversation in California, as residents have found themselves caught in the crosshairs of an insurance crisis.

Many insurance providers have deemed parts of the state “high risk” and are no longer offering coverage. This is affecting current homeowners and future homebuyers as they try to secure homeowners insurance.

INSURANCETIED TO ESCROW

When a buyer is in the process of purchasing a home in California, one critical step is securing homeowners insurance. Lenders typically require insurance as a condition for approving a borrower’s mortgage. However, several factors

have made this step more challenging recently.

California is no stranger to wildfires, and insurers have become increasingly cautious about underwriting homes in high-risk fire areas. This has led

to premium increases and, in some cases, insurance companies refusing coverage altogether. In Clayton, for example, the 94517 zip code in general is considered “high risk.”

Recently, a buyer had their insurance in place but when the lender tried to draw docs, the insurance provider retracted the quote and is no longer covering homes in California. Difficulty securing insurance can lead to delays in the escrow process, potentially causing buyers to miss out on their dream home.

USING THE FAIR PLAN

Most buyers are now being forced to use the California Fair Plan to close escrow and satisfy escrow/lender requirements. The Fair Plan is a state-mandat-

ed program designed to provide basic property insurance coverage to homeowners who cannot obtain insurance through the traditional market.

The Fair Plan can serve as a last resort for homebuyers who are unable to secure coverage through regular insurers. Many lenders will accept the Fair Plan policy to meet their insurance requirements during the escrow process.

Premiums for Fair Plan policies are typically higher than those for standard insurance policies because they cater to properties in high-risk areas. However, the cost might be well worth it for homeowners who would otherwise struggle to find coverage.

SEEKINGADDITIONAL COVERAGE

While the Fair Plan can be a lifesaver for those in need, it’s essential to understand that it only offers basic coverage. It typically covers damage caused by fire, smoke, lightning and internal explosions. Coverage for other things like theft, vandalism and liability may need to be obtained separately.

Most homebuyers who are forced to use a Fair Plan obtain a Difference in Conditions (DIC) wrap policy, which comes at a significantly higher cost. In some cases, the increased cost can offset the buyers’ Debt-to-Income Ratio (DTI), causing concern for their ability to qualify for

financing for the purchase of their home.

It’s important to emphasize that the Fair Plan should be seen as a last resort. Homeowners should make efforts to secure insurance through traditional carriers first, because Fair Plan coverage may not be as comprehensive as regular homeowners insurance. Homebuyers should consult with insurance agents before making an offer. By understanding insurance options upfront, homebuyers can enter escrow with greater confidence.

Jennifer Stojanovich is an owner/broker with Better Homes Real Estate. Send questions and comments to jennifer@bhrbroker.com

Contributed photo

An aircraft owner shares details about piston engines at the Education Center on Pearson Field in Vancouver, Wash., at a previous GIAD seminar.

JENNIFER STOJANOVICH CLOSE TO HOME

Saucedo takes pride in serving Clayton community

technician with the Police Department.

“From mastering my culinary skills at the International Hospitality Tourism Academy, where I competed in creating advanced wedding cakes, to fostering young minds as a preschool teacher for five years, I’ve cultivated patience, precision and empathy,” she says.

Saucedo’s academic journey led her to a criminal justice degree from Diablo Valley College, equipping her with a solid foundation for understanding the complexities of the legal system.

“Gabriela is a dedicated staff member who has been willing to take on new challenges to improve herself and the city,” notes city manager Bret Prebula.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Saucedo finds “joy and balance” in ice skating, where she says she’s learned the art of grace under pressure.

“Community engagement is a core value of mine, and I actively contribute by volunteering at events such as the Art & Wine Festival and the 4th of July Parade in Clayton,” she says. “These experiences

connect me to the heart of the city and its people.”

Her aspirations extend beyond law enforcement. “I hope to one day become a Clayton mom, embodying the spirit of service, family and community.”

She reflects that each step in her life “has enriched me with invaluable skills, perspectives and qualities that I proudly bring to my role. I remain committed to maintaining the highest standards of empathy and dedication as I serve and protect the community I deeply care for.”

Special concert honors Karen Mangini – and food pantry

The Peace, Love & Hope Benefit Concert offers a dual purpose: to benefit the St. Bonaventure Food Pantry and to honor longtime volunteer Karen Mangini, who died June 17.

The event, which features a good will offering, begins at 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 15, at St. Bonaventure Church, 5562 Clayton Road, Concord.

“The concert will be uplifting music of peace, love and hope,” says Vicky Farnham.

“The Resurrection Choir, the 9

a.m. choir and friends will be performing.”

Launched about 35 years ago, the food pantry is open 8:30-10 a.m. Tuesdays and currently provides food for 120 families.

“It serves a large amount of seniors on a fixed income, families from Ukraine, those with handicaps and more,” says Farnham.

If you are unable to attend the concert, organizers are encouraging donations at https://stbonaventure.net/giving.

Gabriella Saucedo brings her unique background and experiences into play in her job as a police administrative

Gabriella Saucedo says community engagement is essential in her role as a police administrative technician in Clayton.

Get a family photo – and help Early Alert Canines

Summer Bear Photography is partnering with Concord’s Early Alert Canines to raise money through special fall photo sessions.

“As a dog lover with many family members suffering from diabetes, it is an honor to work with this amazing non-profit organization dedicated to training dogs that can detect life-threatening sugar levels in Type 1 diabetics,” says Crystal Summer Bear.

“At Summer Bear Photography, we are dedicated to preserving the legacy and love of families, couples, kids and teens through heirloom artwork that lives on your walls –not on a hard drive or online gallery collecting digital mothballs. At Early Alert Canines, I found a kindred spirit with the same kind of dedication,” she

notes. “Their employees and volunteers put everything into each dog and each client to ensure a successful placement.”

When customers participate in one of Bear’s photo session events Sept. 27-Dec. 3, 10% will go to Early Alert Canines.

“Summer Bear Photogra-

phy will help you capture the joy of your loved ones and create unique art for your home –all while making a meaningful contribution to a worthy cause,” Bear says.

For more information, visit SummerBearPhotography.com or call 510-734-6695.

Visit Pleasant Hill eager to market the vibrant city

Stay Pleasant Hill is transitioning and re-branding our name to Visit Pleasant Hill, which more strategically aligns us with our state organization, Visit California – making it easier for consumers to find us.

Visit Pleasant Hill is a destination marketing organization that promotes Pleasant Hill’s seven hotels, with a combined room count of 700, as well as other businesses that benefit from visitors and locals alike. Visitors bring a valuable economic element into Pleasant Hill. It helps local businesses when visitors eat, shop and stay

in Pleasant Hill.

We have an extensive calendar on our website that highlights a wide array of local events. If you are looking for something do or want to spotlight an event you are holding, please look us up at www.staypleasanthill.com/events.

We want to honor America’s first inhabitants and recognize them on Indigenous People’s Day, Oct. 9. We encourage everyone to celebrate and recognize the many Indigenous communities and cultures that make up our great country.

In support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we will be recognizing women who are actively fighting against breast cancer, have survived or died from breast cancer. Those affected by this form of cancer are true warriors, and we honor them this month and always. For ways to get involved, visit https://sanfran.com/sf-bayarea-breast-cancer-awarenessmonth-organizations.

Visit Pleasant Hill is excited to announce that we have launched a free, mobile-exclusive digital pass called I Love Pleasant Hill. It allows users to check in at participating businesses, redeem discounts, earn points and enter to win sweepstakes prizes. This pass will be a key component of Visit Pleasant Hill’s marketing efforts, and we want your business to be a part of it.

Please contact Visit Pleasant Hill to learn how to highlight your business or visit www.visitpleasanthill.com to sign up to enjoy the free pass.

Trish Snowden is the CEO of Visit Pleasant Hill. Contact her at info@staypleasanthill.com.

New Clayton fee schedule puts downtown festivals in jeopardy

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The City Council voted 32 to update its Master Fee Schedule on Aug. 15, with the added costs directly affecting the Clayton Business & Community Association (CBCA) and the Clayton Pride Parade..

As a result, events like Art & Wine, Oktoberfest and the summer BBQ face an uncertain future.

The vote significantly increases costs for hosting an event in Clayton, including a new $10,000 fee per day “special event fee” to rent Clayton’s streets. Since only one local nonprofit, the CBCA, is known to host regular events downtown, some have called the new fees “punitive” –including two members of the council, despite a 30% non-profit discount.

The city says the new fees are straightforward “cost recovery,” while the CBCA sees the special event fee, which is imposed on top of all cost recovery fees, as the city’s way of profiting off a nonprofit. Mayor Jeff Wan and his supporters on the council say they see real issues with the city’s financial solvency and contend that the updated fees are a legitimate means of keeping the city’s budget balanced.

Opponents say the special events fee is pure profit and goes well beyond cost recovery. The CBCA has stated they are ready and willing to pay 100% cost recovery but that the special event fee is excessive.

Even though the city included a 30% discount on the special event fee for the

CBCA, club leaders worry the fee is too burdensome. They also say it was tacked on without proper consideration and is out of line with what surrounding cities are charging for events.

While the special event fee has been decided, CBCA president CW Wolfe said he is still in talks with the mayor and city to come to some conclusion on what the other fees will look like.

“I had a conversation with the mayor on the 30th and we’re going to have ongoing conversations now as to what the fees entail and, in other words, what we get from those fees, what is not included, what would be added costs and what we need to do,” said Wolfe, a former member of the City Council.

A COUNCILDIVIDED

Wan, Vice Mayor Jim Diaz and Councilmember Kim Trupiano voted yes on the Master Fee Scheule, with Holly Tillman and Peter Cloven dissenting. The Pioneer reached out to the mayor’s office twice for comment and did not hear back before press deadline. Wan did share his thoughts on the matter in his column in this issue of The Pioneer.

Diaz also did not respond to a request for comment. Trupiano said: “I’m not going to talk about the fee schedule. I’ve already said what I had to say at the last meeting.”

Cloven and Tillman, on the other hand, had a lot to say. Tillman said the updated fee schedule is “punitive.” She noted that when the council started off the conversation earlier this year, “it was only about cost recovery. And it continued to change as each

month went by when our mayor continued to move the goalposts.”

Tillman says that as the process evolved, everything seemed to be less and less rooted in relevant numbers. “It was clear that the consultant that we hired could not answer basic questions for us on how he derived that fee.”

City Manager Bret Prebula sheds some light on why the fee adjustments might be difficult for the community. He points out that, aside from the special event fee which new this year, the other fees will see a substantial increase because they haven’t been looked at in about 15 years.

“That’s really based on the fact that the city just hadn’t done a cost analysis in many years. Then you tend to have, unfortunately, a larger impact instead of gradually moving it over time.”

Before the adjustment, the daily rate to rent the large picnic area in the Clayton Community Park was $577. Under the new schedule, the daily rate is $769, a 33% increase.

“With the exception of the special event fee,” Perbula continued, “the new Master Fee Schedule is now an accurate reflection of the cost of us providing the service that someone would utilize in the community,” he said.

A TARGETEDATTACK?

Cloven notes that only the CBCA and Clayton Pride will be affected. “It’s a discriminatory tax that (Wan) is expertly wrapping in the guise of fiscal prudence.”

According to Cloven, the summer barbecue festival most likely will not survive the change. “Currently the

barbecue can’t happen because it’ll operate at a loss,” he said.

The CBCA donates the bulk of its revenue to schools, sports teams and community organizations in Clayton, and the updated fees will impact what they can afford to give back to the community.

“CBCA does not make a profit,” Wolfe said. “CBCA takes the money and gives it back to the Clayton community.” Cloven states that the changes came without any documentation, spreadsheets or numbers to back them up. The issue was added to a March City Council meeting at the last minute when Tillman was away on a scheduled vacation.

Tillman says those who voted yes would prefer that the controversy go away.

“They don’t want to continue discussing it anymore because they know deep down what they were doing was punitive. But if this was not targeted at the CBCA, then the fees in and of themselves would not have been based on what the CBCA could afford to pay,” she said.

Wolfe says CBCA events like Oktoberfest and Art & Wine will continue, even if they have to leave Clayton. “We’re continually looking for other opportunities.”

Still, Wolfe says that the money the CBCA raises will benefit Clayton.

“The one guarantee for the Clayton community is no matter how or where we hold our events, the money will always come back to the Clayton community.”

Narcan in schools, antibullying initiatives and city development projects were among the topics discussed at a joint meeting of the Mt. Diablo Unified School District (MDUSD) and the City Council on Aug. 29. Narcan (Naloxone), a drug that can reverse a fentanyl or opioid overdose, is currently available in high schools and middle schools throughout the district. At the meeting, it was revealed that the drug will be rolling out to elementary schools soon.

Superintendent Adam Clark says that stocking Narcan is more preemptive and cautious than it is a solution to a large problem. “This is a preventative measure, not a reaction to any specific trend

within MDUSD,” Clark said.

However, he noted that the district has seen deaths that could have been prevented.

“Unfortunately, there have been local student and alumni deaths that could have been avoided if Naloxone were used.”

‘POSITIVE’ STEPSAGAINST BULLYING

The district’s unique approach to fighting bullying also was on full display, with talk of Positive Behavior Intervention and Support (PBIS), other approaches and a “positive school climate.”

A major tenet of PBIS is decreasing the level of punitive responses like expulsion and suspension and creating a positive environment for everyone where the expectations for behavior are clear. The policies allow school

officials to “maximize our resources through data-based decisions and research-based practices.”

“Students are encouraged to notify school staff when they are being bullied or suspect that another student is being victimized,” Clark added.

From there, the district takes “supportive measures” and “treats the situation as an opportunity for education” instead of focusing on punishment. The district also offers counselor support and wellness centers at its schools.

During MDUSD’s portion of the meeting, other topics included transportation and tobacco use prevention.

OPTIMISMABOUT

CNWS PROGRESS

Meanwhile, the Concord Reuse Project gave a presentation on plans for the shuttered Concord Naval Weapons Station (CNWS), which will include several distinct commerce and housing areas, a tournament sports complex and a campus district.

According to Guy Bjerke, Concord’s director of Economic Development & Base Reuse, the city has picked Brookfield Properties as the new master developer. The council is meeting with the developer again on Sept. 19.

“We’ll then be working with Brookfield on a Term Sheet that would explain the scope of the project they envision,” Bjerke said.

He explained that the plan will span the area surrounding the North Concord BART Station down to Bailey Road. There will be retail, office, industrial and work/living spaces.

“It has a campus district, it has a tournament sports complex, and it has a commercial flex area and a total of roughly 6 million square feet for various types of commercial uses,” Bjerke said.

According to the Reuse Project, “The urban ‘campus’ will include clusters of buildings focused around public spaces that create comfortable environments for study, discussion and recreation.”

Bjerke says that a significant chunk of the housing will be for low-income residents. “It has about 12,000 housing units … with 25% of those affordable to low income residents as defined in state law,” he reported.

The project, which dates back to 2007, has seen slow progress over the years. But according to Bjerke, the project has new life. “There’s always going to be issues, but I think there is significant optimism going forward.”

From the desk of...

Road projects will smooth the way through Concord

Roadwork throughout Concord continues, thanks to a $115 million investment in our five-year pavement improvement plan – with the use of Measure V, the onecent local sales tax intended to maintain a reliable source of local funding that cannot be taken by the state.

Significant improvements recently completed include repaving of Grant and East streets, Treat Boulevard Phase 1, Oak Grove Road, a portion of Concord Boulevard and city limits to San Miguel Road. Phase 2, San Miguel to Clayton Road, begins in spring 2024, and we have more projects on the horizon.

We recently approved a contract for pavement rehab maintenance for Willow Pass Road from Landana Drive toward Highway 4. I know this is a huge relief to so many who use that stretch of road. We also approved a con-

LAURA HOFFMEISTER CONCORD MAYOR

tract to repair pavement sections on Ygnacio Valley Road from Alberta Way to Clayton Road.

Some of our projects include new or improved bike lanes. State law requires all cities and counties to include “Complete Streets” for grant funding for road pavement projects. Concord has been successful in securing more than $14 million in federal, state and regional transporta-

tion grants over the last year.

Complete Streets requires improving adjacent pedestrian access such as ramps at corners, and adding bicycle lanes or upgrading existing bike lanes to new standards.

We have received some questions and concerns specifically about Concord Boulevard. While the lanes meander more than they used to, and in some sections two travel lanes were reduced to one, we made these striping changes to accommodate the required bike lanes without removing all of the existing curbside parking.

All of our current and future repaving projects where bike lanes are required may also narrow auto travel lanes to 11-feet wide to accommodate the bike lanes unless the road is a designated truck route. With some bike and pedestrian improvements, we have had to make changes to

the previous striping. Some drivers may be surprised and frustrated, and I know it will take some time to adjust.

The city Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC) assists in reviewing transportation projects, including roadway, pedestrian and bicycle improvements, and provides input to staff and the City Council. The BPAC has public quarterly meetings. To learn more, please visit https://cityofconcord.org/commissions.

Despite the traffic headaches, these upgrades will not only slow the progressive deterioration of our roadways, but for the first time in more than a decade, they will begin to improve our pavement condition – which is better for safety and quality of life. You can learn more about our upcoming projects and see our interactive map at www.cityofconcord.org/CIP.

Pleasant Hill readies new trees, safety improvements

35 unhealthy Bradford pear trees with drought-tolerant, non-flowering Chinese pistache Keith Davey trees. The contractor will also be repairing irrigation, expanding the existing tree wells and installing pavers adjacent to the replacement trees along Crescent Drive.

Welcome back from your summer vacation. Labor Day marks a shift in our focus –we are back in school and anticipating a transition to fall.

The change in seasons will also bring positive changes to Pleasant Hill. We are enhancing our downtown, improving pedestrian and bicycle paths near our schools and making the final preparations for our annual Community Service Day.

Downtown tree replacement. On June 5, the City Council awarded Phase I of the Downtown Street Tree Replacement Project to Sandstone Environmental Engineering. The project will provide streetscape improvements along Crescent Drive from Crescent Plaza to Contra Costa Boulevard.

Work will continue for the next few months. The contractor will be replacing about

Businesses will be open and access will be provided to all businesses during construction. Residents are encouraged to drive slowly through the work zone and follow all traffic control devices.

Pedestrian/cyclist safety. The city is also embarking on a project designed to improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists near our nine school sites. The City Council recently approved funding for the 2023 Intersection & Crosswalk Improvements Project, which will provide improvements at the nine intersections currently monitored in the morning and early afternoon during the school year by the city-provided school crossing guards.

Additionally, the intersection of Viking Drive and Morello Avenue will receive improvements intended to

safeguard pedestrians and cyclists. Construction will start this fall, with completion expected by the end of the year.

These improvements will be a benefit to the entire community, including students and parents, and will provide safety for pedestrians and bicyclists on a year-round basis through the installation of curb ramps, additional signage, new high-visibility crosswalks, flashing beacon systems, LED flashing stop signs, speed humps and traffic signal enhancements. The signalized intersections will receive dynamic LED no-right turn signs and upgraded infrared pedestrian detection. Check the project website at PleasantHillCA.org/saferintersections for an updated schedule. In the meantime, travel safe and remember to give yourself extra time if driving near our schools at bell times.

Community Service Day.

On Sept. 23, hundreds of community members will come out to help with a variety of projects, including park and campus cleanups, a bike build-a-thon and a food

drive with collections at three different locations. The Community Service Day runs 9 a.m.-noon. Volunteers can start the day with a complimentary breakfast courtesy of the Lions Club, before heading out to their project sites. To sign up for this year’s event, go to www.pleasanthillca.org/csd or scan the QR code.

Lastly, you may have noticed new yellow reflective trim around some signal light fixtures. I have received many positive comments about this change, with some asking for other locations to be done. These are part of additional traffic safety improvements funded by a Caltrans grant.

The intersection selected were based on traffic safety

considerations, such as volume of traffic and accident/collision history that complied with the grant requirements. We will continue to look for more funds to update more intersections.

Direct your questions and comments to the mayor at 925-6713158 or Laura.Hoffmeister@cityofconcord.org.

Mayor explains his rationale for new fee schedule

fee schedule, several speakers extolled the virtues of the Clayton Business & Community Association (CBCA). On that front, I agree. The organization adds a tremendous amount of value to the community, and I commend the generosity of both the organization and its volunteers.

In August, the Clayton City Council approved an update to the city’s Master Fee Schedule. This concludes the process that began several months ago and updates our fees to ensure the city is recovering its costs when it performs certain services.

In addition, when a portion of the city is being rented as a venue for an event, the city has the right to collect a fee in exchange for that use.

These activities, however, do not exempt anyone from having to pay for use of city facilities. Fee waivers or discounts represent taxpayerfunded subsidies and should be made judiciously. To the extent that the city does not collect fees that it is able, taxes from residents must make up the difference.

If you are unable to attend but would still like to help, you can support the food drive by making donations at the Safeway stores at 1978 Contra Costa Blvd and 600 Patterson Blvd, as well as the Grocery Outlet at 1671Contra Costa Blvd.

Email questions and comments for Mayor Flaherty to tflaherty@pleasanthillca.org

As large events in our downtown create a disproportionate use of staff time and resources that isn’t well captured in a line item fee schedule, we added a Special Events Fee to our Master Fee Schedule that is tiered based on the size of the event. This is analogous to a park or other facility rental on a larger scale.

For many years, the city’s downtown has been the venue for several commercially successful events. During that time, the city chose to waive substantially all fees associated with the rental of its facilities.

During the public hearing regarding the update to the

County library system offers plethora of options

September is Library Card

Sign-Up Month, and I’d like to encourage you to get a library card if you don’t already have one.

The Contra Costa County Library has 26 locations, including Clayton, Concord, Pleasant Hill and two Walnut Creek sites. The library system is a partnership between cities and the county.

Last summer, the city of Pleasant Hill finished construction on a state-of-the-art building. While I was a member of the City Council, I worked hard to advocate for Measure K which included construction of the building. In partnership with the county, Pleasant Hill now has a remarkable library for everyone to enjoy.

Library cards are free to all residents of California. You can apply online for a digital library card or in-person, where you’ll get to pick a fun card design like an otter, train, California poppy or an astronaut.

Your library card provides access to so much more than the thousands of physical books in the county’s collection. I prefer to borrow ebooks or audiobooks through the Libby app. Digital materials have become increasingly popular and are offered without a monthly subscription through the library. You can also read free digital versions of hundreds of newspapers, like the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, the San Francisco Chronicle and the East Bay Times.

The wide variety of online services include tutoring, resume review, genealogy services through Ancestry, streaming movies, LinkedIn Learning and Rosetta Stone,

KEN CARLSON COUNTY SUPERVISOR

just to name a few.

Library buildings are modern places where you can work remotely with free wi-fi, learn a new craft or simply find a comfy spot to read a book. Many of our libraries are equipped with computers, laptops, printers and scanners. You can check out wi-fi hotspots if you need a connection at home or on the go.

Beyond the library’s walls, your library card can take you to new places through Discover & Go. You can get free

passes to local museums, zoos, science centers and cultural venues in the Bay Area. You can also check out day passes to visit California State Parks and East Bay Regional Parks.

The Contra Costa County Library system has worked hard to offer useful programs, materials and resources for our patrons. The most important aspect of our library system is that late fines have been eliminated. Being finefree removed one of the biggest barriers to patrons returning to the library.

I hope you’ll take a moment this month to sign up for a library card. To get started, please stop by a local library or visit ccclib.org/geta-library-card-info.

Ken Carlson is Contra Costa County District IV supervisor. Email questions or comments to Carlson at SupervisorCarlson@bos.cccounty.us or call his office at 925-655-2350.

Earlier, I made a proposal that could lower or waive fees even further if the CBCA and the city entered into a revenue-sharing agreement that could be mutually beneficial. This should be familiar to the CBCA, since they engage in a revenue-sharing arrangement with vendors that come to their events.

Historically, while using the city facilities at no charge, the CBCA earned revenue by collecting a portion of gross revenue from food sales at events like the Art & Wine Festival. In addition, each vendor pays the CBCA for the privilege of renting space on city streets – those same streets on which the CBCA has had their fees waived for the past 15 years.

Unfortunately, the CBCA board rejected this proposal without discussion or any exploration of what might be possible. They made no counter proposal.

It appears that the position of the organization is that the only acceptable option is to be able to continue to use city facilities for free. That would not be a prudent position for the city to take, and it would be unfair to our residents.

In other news, the California Energy Commission recently approved a $1.9 million loan at 1% interest to support city efforts for energy modernization and resiliency. This will fund the transformational work that Climatec proposed earlier in the year.

Planning is beginning and work will start in mid-2024. We will be adding solar arrays, car chargers, new HVAC systems, new lighting throughout the city, monitoring and auto shutoff of water mains, and a host of other energy-efficiency activities over the next 1218 months.

Because of the low interest rate loan, the city should see positive cash flows from savings within one year of project completion.

Send comments and questions for the mayor to jeff.wan@clayton.ci.gov

TIM FLAHERTY PLEASANT HILL MAYOR

JEFF WAN CLAYTON MAYOR

Obituaries

Charlotte Ann Eilers Hollenbeck

November 30, 1933 - August 15, 2023

To say that we lost a legend and an icon of the Clayton, Mt. Diablo Elementary and Concord Blue Devil communities would be an incredible understatement.

Charlotte Ann Eilers, 89, was born on Nov. 30, 1933, in Salem, S.D. She was married to Fred Hollenbeck until his passing in 1997. She was a Clayton resident. They never had children of their own, but in 1969 overnight they became guardians to their nephew, Finn Birder, who lost his parents when he was just 6.

Charlotte taught at Mt. Diablo Elementary for an incredible 50+ years. Her firm, direct teaching style had proven results year after year.

When Finn was 14, he drew an interest in playing with the now world-famous Concord Blue Devils in 1978. Fostered by her love of music, Fred and Char became active in the booster club as parents and supporters to the very end.

From her elementary students to her hosting of Blue Devil corps kids to hosting

international students, Charlotte played an important role in shaping and guiding thousands of young people. After never having kids of her own, she became a mom to many. Charlotte passed away on Aug. 15, 2023, due to a longterm illness. She is survived by her son, Finn Birder, daughter-in-law, Jeanann, and grandchildren, Adam and Alyssa Birder.

A Celebration of Life will be held 9 a.m.-noon Sunday, Sept. 17, at the Clayton Community Library.

Margaret ‘Maggie’ Hicks

February 12, 1930-August 14, 2023

Long-time Bay Area resident Margaret “Maggie” Hicks died on Aug. 14, 2023.

In lieu of flowers, please donate a tribute gift in Charlotte’s name to the Alzheimer’s Association to provide continuing care, support and accelerated research.

Gerald E. Henderson

October 29, 1940 - July 8, 2023

happy to introduce the lovely “Patsy” to her hard-working son.

Gerald E. Henderson, 82, died peacefully at his home in Clayton on July 8, 2023.

He was active and independent, even while battling Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia for many years. At home with Hospice support from July 3, he spent his final days surrounded by family, both in person and on video calls, sitting outside on the porch and enjoying his yard and neighborhood. Although he experienced some delirium during his illness, he was still smart, strong-willed and funny, yet calm and content to the end of his life. His strength and presence will be sorely missed.

Gerald was born Oct. 29, 1940, on a farm in Prattville, Ala., the middle of three sons of Sara (Dillard) Henderson and William (Earl) Henderson. Family lore held that Gerald could pick 200 pounds of cotton every day, more than either of his brothers.

He was an athlete and student leader at Autauga County High School, playing basketball and baseball and serving as president of his senior class.

During his last year of college at the University of Alabama, Gerald married Mary E. Hull (Pat) of Autaugaville, Ala., on Feb. 1, 1963. They met several years earlier at the Prattville grocery store where Sara Henderson was

After receiving his bachelor’s degree in accounting, Gerald was chosen by Standard Oil Co. as Alabama’s “high-caliber college graduate” to work in the Birmingham office. Throughout his career, Gerald was offered roles of increasing responsibility in finance and Information Technology in Kentucky (KYSO), New Jersey (Chevron East 1974) and California (CUSA Consolidation 1977).

Along the way, Gerald and Pat added two daughters to their family, Tracy Elizabeth (born in Birmingham) and Patricia Eve (born in Louisville). Gerald remarked in a company announcement that his children would benefit from the education and experience of living in other states.

Working at Chevron in finance and IT roles, Patricia often heard positive commentary about colleagues’ experience with Gerald. As part of the Chevron IT leadership team, Gerald managed the computer networking group of 300 employees across the enterprise. After 32 years with Chevron, Gerald retired in 1995.

In retirement, he sold his boat and fishing gear and became an avid Senior Softball player and manager, playing on multiple teams concurrently. Gerald’s last team was an “Over 75” tournament team, which he helped lead to several championships. He and Pat also enjoyed designing and building several new homes over the years.

Gerald and Pat cared for

their three grandchildren part-time for many years and regularly transported the grandkids to their sports and other activities, especially softball, baseball and basketball.

Gerald is survived by his wife of 60 years, Pat Henderson; daughters, Tracy Graff and Patricia King; sons-inlaw, Doug Graff and Kenneth King; and three precious grandchildren, Makenzie and Sydnie King, and Grayson Graff.

Gerald’s two brothers and sisters-in-law also survive him, Dr. Ronald and Beth Henderson and Thomas and Barbara Henderson; as well as many cousins, nieces and

nephews. Also surviving Gerald are four of Pat’s sisters, who loved Gerald like a brother, Virginia (Bobbie) Pedigo, Doris Little, Beverly DeFee and Faye Green (husband Al), and many extended Hull family.

The family held a Remembrance Service on Aug. 12 at Gatetree Church in Danville. Following the service, there was reception to continue celebrating Gerald’s impactful life.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to your favorite charity, veterans’ organization or Hospice East Bay, which was so helpful to the family during Gerald’s last days.

She was born on Feb. 12, 1930, in El Paso to Agapito and Maria Gonzalez. She came from a large family, with six brothers and three sisters. She was a twin and the youngest.

Her family moved to Tehachapi, Calif., in the late 1930s and ultimately settled in San Francisco in the early 1950s. She lived nearly all her adult life in the Bay Area, which she loved, until she moved to Pismo Beach at the spry age of 84.

She was employed as an executive secretary for the Volkswagen dealership in the Bay Area where she retired. After retirement, she kept busy with different selfemployed businesses, but the one she loved the most was dog/house sitting for clients who became lifelong friends. Her No. 1 passion, deep love and devotion was for the dogs. She loved her beloved Cocker Spaniels: Cindy, Ginger, Senator and Sugar.

Aunt Maggie loved to travel and went to beautiful places in Mexico, South America and Hawaii. She was an avid golfer, bowler, painter and even ventured into whitewater rafting. She was known for her green thumb and had beautiful flowers and plants in front of her patios. Her favorite places were the mountains

and the ocean, which is why she was drawn to Pismo Beach. She was preceded in death by her parents, Agapito and Maria; brothers, Carlos, Agapito, Nacho, Alfonso, Ernest and Willie; and sisters, Tana, Josephine and Eva. She leaves loving nieces and nephews and many wonderful friends.

A Catholic Rosary and Mass were held Sept. 12 at Christ the King Church in Bakersfield. In lieu of flowers, it was her request that donations be made to Guide Dogs for the Blind in San Rafael.

The family would like to thank everyone who has offered their love and support during this time. Rest in peace, our dear Aunt Maggie.

Bob Jordan

April 14, 1934 - August 14, 2023

there was no place better in which to live.

Bob Jordan, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother and friend, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Aug. 14, 2023. He lived in the same house in Clayton for 60 years, raised his family, then remained in Clayton at retirement because he and his wife, Alice, felt

Bob was born in Los Angeles on April 14, 1934, to Peggy and Frank Jordan. He attended Huntington Park High, where he excelled in baseball all four years and established many records as their first baseman. He played pro ball, then opted to continue his education by attending UCLA. It was there that he met Alice, to whom he was married 68 years. Bob was a member of Theta Delta Chi fraternity and The Kelps – an “honorary dishonorary” society for school spirit. While at UCLA, he joined the Coast Guard

Reserve and served eight years before being honorably discharged.

After graduating UCLA, he and Alice moved to Northern California and he worked for Aeroquip for 35 years, ultimately becoming the district sales manager for the West Coast and Southeast Asia.

Bob most enjoyed being with his family. He loved going to his grandkids’ sporting events and concerts and the many family camping trips.

He was an active member of Clayton’s St. John’s Church, volunteered for Clayton’s Relay for Life and delivered Meals on Wheels for 12 years.

Bob and Alice belonged to the

same Gourmet Group for 35+ years, making lasting friends.

Bob is survived by his wife, Alice; sons, Steve (Carol) and Mike (Tami); daughter, Jill (Jim); and sister, Francie Mannion. He was grandfather to Joseph, Chris, Dan, Tyler, Eric, Russ, Grace and Claire. His great grandchildren are Arriana, two Sophias, Lainey, Sam, Michael and Anabella. Bob lived a full and wonderful life and is greatly missed by his family and friends.

For donations in Bob’s honor, please consider the American Cancer Society.

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Sculpture, from page 1

Grill, La Piñata restaurant and Parkside Grill downtown and behind the Old Navy store at The Veranda, among other locations.

CREATINGAN

‘UNEXPECTEDSIGHT’

According to Local Edition

Creative founders Sage and Tari Loring, three temporary art installations are locked in to be on display Oct. 8-Jan. 8.

“The Dahlia will be facing Todos Santos Plaza, The Full Metal Poppy will be outside of the Brenden Theatres (on Galindo) and the Giraffe duo will be clearly visible off of Clayton Road, installed at the Concord Historical Society,” Sage Loring said. “We know that the pumpkins and Christmas tree lot will attract lots of people to the entrance on Clayton, and the Giraffes will be a lovely and unexpected sight to see across the road.”

To help draw attention to them, all three sculptures will be lit up with LED components.

The upcoming installations follow positive feedback about last year’s murals from business owners, Concord employees and the public, as well as the sponsors and participants.

“Everybody that we worked with has been very supportive, and they understand the vision and how it benefits the entire community overall,” Loring said.

ARTISTSIN A JAM

Last year’s program included a gathering in Todos Santos Plaza, where artists created their own works at an Artist Mural Painting Jam. A dozen artists made 6-by 6-foot portable paintings, which Concord nonprofit groups now display at their sites.

One of those artists was Brian Arriaga, a 31-year-old Concord native who painted a large-scale colorful rooster during the outdoor jam. He said painting in front of onlookers was a positive experience on many fronts.

“I consider myself a very

talkative and social person, and I enjoyed every bit of it,” Arriaga said. “We had people asking questions, complimenting, asking why we were painting and what we were painting. I was also able to speak to people who might be intimated to paint in front of other people.”

This fall’s project will include a two-day painting jam 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Oct. 14 and 15 in Todos Santos Plaza. Each chosen artist will receive a large canvas and a $500 stipend to create their paintings, which will later be sold.

POETRY A PLUS

But this year’s public art installation project isn’t just about painting and sculptures.

On the afternoon of Oct. 15, two poetry events featuring Jose Cordon will take place at the Concord Historical Society.

Cordon said the presentations will include two featured poets and several high school students reading poetry inspired by the permanent murals installed last summer. He said the poetry performance will be called “A Mural of Words: The Art of Spoken Word Poetry.”

“One of the things they want to do is bring all sorts of art forms together, and that’s important,” said the 30-year-old Cordon, who was named Antioch poet laureate last year.

Adding poetry to the mix of Creative Concord offerings is key to Loring’s mission.

“We have to have a performing arts component,” he said. “We are trying to create community with art. It’s a big community builder.”

AMERICA TO THE RESCUE

The money to produce Creative Concord comes from a $200,000 award from the American Rescue Plan Act signed into law by President Joe Biden in 2021. The project received $100,000 for this year’s program, with another $100,000 allocated for 2024, Loring said.

Because the federal money

falls short by about $75,000, Loring is hoping grants and sponsorships come through.

“Our goal each year is to build the best arts and culture experience we can for Contra Costa County with the funding we have to work with,” Loring said.

Jennifer Ortega, Concord’s Community Relations manager, said this year’s program is building on the success of last year’s Creative Concord event. “Art and culture bring people together and can generate a sense of pride in the community. That is our hope with this project,” she said.

Beth Javens of Visit Concord said she would like to see a pop-up gallery where the art can be displayed long after the art jam in the park is over.

“A space with critical mass or high foot traffic and wheel traffic would be highly desired for continued public engagement and enjoyment,” Javens said.

CREATING A SENSE OFCOMMUNITY

Research shows that public art has many benefits for people, including combating feelings of anxiety and social isolation. Communities also gain cultural, social and economic benefits through public art.

According to Americans for the Arts, 70% of Americans said that the arts “improve the image and identity” of their communities. The organization also found that public art “provides a visual mechanism for understanding other cultures and perspectives and reinforcing social connectivity with others.”

In fact, 73% of Americans said that the arts help them “understand other cultures better.”

For Loring, combining public art with performance art is the ideal way to expose more people to different types of artistic endeavors.

“It’s important for us to say, ‘This is an art form and maybe it’s something that (people) haven’t been exposed to before,’ ” he said. “Public art doesn’t have to be spirit poles.”

September marks the beginning of a change in seasons, which means it is a particularly amazing month at the Concord Farmers' Market! Find fresh tomatoes, peaches, and peppers alongside apples, pears, grapes, figs, and even winter squash. Get your fill of the best tasting fresh, seasonal produce, prepared foods, and other locally-made goods at Todos Santos Plaza. The Thursday market ends for the season September 28th, but Tuesday open all year long. So be sure to visit the Concord Farmers' Market this September to enjoy the best of the season!

SEPT 14 THE SUN KINGS Beatles tribute

SEPT 21 JOHNNY and JUNE FOREVER Cash & Carter tribute

SEPT 28 HOUSE OF FLOYD Music & visual Pink Floyd tribute

USE YOUR CALFRESH/EBT CARD WE'LL MATCH YOUR PURCHASE UP TO $15!

Find out more at: pcfma.org/market-match

hours that you all have invested already,” he said.

“Concord is a blank slate where we can deploy all that we’ve learned to create a next generation project for the East Bay,” added Alex Mehran Jr., president and CEO of Sunset Development – the San Ramonbased commercial arm of the project and a major developer in the county for decades.

Mayor Laura Hoffmeister noted that the city has examined about a dozen developer applications over the years. “And I stand by the fact that I

think the Brookfield/Sunset information is still by far the best,” she said.

Hoffmeister, who favored Brookfield rather than CFP in 2021, “applauded” Brookfield for returning to the council after losing out in that previous round. “I think we do have something we can move forward with and work with,” she said.

LABORAGREEMENT

UP FRONT

Because a Project Labor Agreement was a sticking point with previous developers, the current application process

Creek, from page 1

Contra Costa Boulevard

between Highway 680 and Chilpancingo Parkway as the work progresses and trucks move in and out of the area.

PRESERVING THE NATURALHABITAT

Regarding the potential harm to wildlife and vegetation, Sanders noted this project has undergone more than three years of environmental studies and inspections with local agencies such as the state Department of Fish and Wildlife, Regional Water Quality Control Board, Army Corps of Engineers and the Department of Conservation and Development.

Local groups such as the Friends of Pleasant Hill Creeks and the Pacheco Municipal Advisory Committee also provided feedback regarding preservation of the natural habitat.

“Prior to any construction activities this year, a team of biologists surveyed the area for species and vegetation. The impact to avians is minimal as most birds nest in trees and the nesting period generally ends around September 1st,” Sanders said. “The first area of construction performed was in an area without a tree canopy, and the segments to have sediment removed have been surveyed for

bird nesting and no observable nests were found.”

Furthermore, most of the vegetation in the creek is considered invasive and non-native. The sediment project will be removing this vegetation and placing it at acceptable upland landfills. Sanders explained that an approved seed mix from local environmental agencies will be hydroseeded before the first rains.

The same technique was used back in 2006, and the work was pretty successful. It is anticipated that the vegetation will be fully established within a year or two.

Crews will place the removed material at a designated upland fill area owned by the John Muir Land Trust, at its request. It will be graded, compacted and hydroseeded.

Sanders noted that the material is largely organic, so it is not suitable for county construction or road projects. But he said the Grayson Creek silt is destined for the $14 million Lower Walnut Creek Restoration Project to sustain plants and animals that call the creek home. Such a project is funded 100% by grants.

MOREWORK LIKELY NEEDEDIN FUTURE

The previous desilt under-

included a requirement for a PLA. Joan Ryan, Concord’s Community Reuse planner, confirmed that Brookfield has executed a PLA with the Contra Costa Building & Construction Trades Council. “This will establish a robust construction work program, including a goal of 40 percent local hire and a comprehensive program of training, hiring and retention of construction workers – including apprenticeships from certified joint labor management programs,” she told the council.

Bill Whitney, CEO of the trades council, called it an “excellent” PLA.

taking occurred in 2006. Then, crews removed about 12,300 cubic yards of material and gave it to Viano Vineyards in Martinez.

“It is anticipated that heavier rain events will result in increased erosion within the area, making the need to perform another sediment removal in the next decade a possibility,” Sanders reported.

Work on Grayson Creek would happen more often, but Sanders noted that permitting has been much harder to obtain – making the process much more strenuous.

A desilting project of this magnitude comes in response to information provided by the Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District, a steward for the Army Corps of Engineers.

As part of the operation and maintenance agreement between the local district and the corps, Contra Costa is required to desilt the channel to the original design capacity about once every decade – subject to the amount of material built up during that time.

The county Board of Supervisors approved the Grayson Creek project on June 27 for $1,477,165, which is provided by Flood Control Zone 3 funds. Estimated construction cost ran as high as $1.63 million.

“It is a wall-to-wall PLA, which covers everything from mobilization to de-mobilization, which is maybe 40 or 50 years down the road,” Whitney said during public comment.

And given legal questions swirling about CFP, the city analyzed four litigation cases and three years of Brookfield’s financial records. Paul Silvern of HR&A Advisors called the company “very strong and appropriately scaled for implementing the Concord Naval Weapons Station project.” He also noted the company’s Moody’s rating of “stable.”

ANOTHER DEVELOPER CONTROVERSARY?

The East Bay Times last week published a story titled “Records reveal Concord Naval Weapons Station developer has ties to Saudi, Qatari money.”

The paper said that Saudi Arabia’s sovereign Public Investment Fund and the Qatar Investment Authority have significant investments in Brookfield Asset Management, the publicly traded parent company of Brookfield that had 2022 revenue of $92.8 billion.

The Times article also mentioned Trump family business dealings with Brookfield and the sovereign wealth funds’ reported human rights abuses. Both Saudi

Arabia and Qatar have been accused of “sportswashing” in recent years with their high-profile involvement in international sports, particularly golf and soccer.

Bjerke told The Times that city officials knew and investigated local Brookfield Properties connections to an immense international asset management company but were unaware of the specific sources of Brookfield’s finances and any connection to Saudi Arabia and Qatar.

He told The Pioneer that Brookfield Asset Management’s “deep pockets” are needed for a project that will require “hundreds of millions of dollars to get off the ground.” Bjerke added that the entire project –which will be the largest development in the Bay Area with an estimated 14,000 homes plus commercial, retail, recreational and educational components –was once estimated to have a price tag of $6 billion.

MOVING PROJECT FORWARD ‘BETTER, FASTER’

To speed up the negotiating process, the city asked Brookfield to review the previous Exclusive Negotiating Agreement (ENA) and Term Sheet. Concord’s legal consultant Gerry Ramiza summarized Brookfield’s comments as

Climatec, from page 1

structure, the rise of utility costs and create improved efficiencies, putting us on a firm path toward NZE and nearly $5 million in lifecycle savings.”

Many around town are excited about the EV charging stations coming to the library. Though the stations will not be free, Councilmember Holly Tillman says it makes Clayton a more viable travel stop.

“Being so far between charging stations is a problem for people who drive electric vehicles,” said Tillman, who has an EV.

“When people are coming down Morgan Territory Road between

us and Antioch and Brentwood, it’s a great thing to know that they can stop and charge if they need to.”

Clayton resident and EV owner Jeff Annison echoes Tillman’s sentiments.

“As owners of an EV, the more charging station coverage there is in the world, the better,” he said. “Knowing there is a place to top off your EV in Clayton may encourage visitors to our town.”

According to Prebula, even more charging stations may be in the city’s future. “We are looking to potentially, in Phase two, add

“minor wordsmithing” or questions seeking clarification.

“I’m confident based on what we saw on those comments that we’d be able to work through and get to an Exclusive Negotiating Agreement relatively promptly,” Ramiza told the council.

“I think we can move forward a little bit better, a little bit faster,” Hoffmeister said. “We’re that much further down the road than we were before. I think that will serve us well as we move forward with the next steps in the process.”

Councilmember Laura Nakamura, who was elected based on her opposition to CFP, said she was happy to support Brookfield.

“The residents of Concord want to move forward,” she said. “With collaboration and community input, I believe that Brookfield has made a commitment. They made a commitment to the process two years ago, and they are still here with us.”

Ryan said Brookfield intends to start by rebuilding Willow Pass Road with Phase 1 infrastructure, as well as extending infrastructure into the tournament sports complex.

The city plans to consider the ENA on Sept. 19. Jay Bedecarré contributed to this report.

more areas throughout the city.”

Councilmember Peter Cloven brought the Climatec project to the city’s attention after learning about the company last July, when he saw Climatec’s presentation on Climate Action Plans. He was immediately moved to action.

“I met with Climatec in July of last year when I went to Long Beach for the Cal Cities conference. I came back and I reported to the City Council on this and put out the fact that I wanted to work with Climatec,” he said.

Cloven is grateful for the unanimous council agreement. “It’s not a full Climate Action Plan, but it’s a good step toward at least being responsible with our resources.”

Respite S RpSyStays

Building support for healthy food

professor at UC San Francisco, has spent decades studying the biochemical reactions of nutrition. He and I are coauthors of “The Fat Chance Cookbook,” published in 2013.

through nutrition, Dr. Naomi Breckon told the audience.

apple juice, eliminating the fiber in the apple, is Class 4.

For 17 years, Rob Lustig and I have been partners in the cause of influencing people to eat regular healthy meals, restricting (or eliminating) ultra-processed and sugarlaced food.

That’s why, one late-summer evening, I was pleased to introduce Lustig to a group of more than 150 at the Women of (Temple) Isaiah event in Lafayette.

Lustig, a pediatric neuroendocrinologist and emeritus

Lustig and I shared the Temple Isaiah stage with Congressman Mark DeSaulnier of Concord, who described his efforts to make people aware of the health and economic benefits of good, locally grown food. DeSaulnier, a former restaurateur, noted that federal legislation important to nutrition comes up for reauthorization this year: the comprehensive agriculture bill and the law for free and reducedprice meals in schools.

Also at the event were two primary care doctors who this fall are opening a precedent-setting clinic in Lafayette that will include culinary medicine. The way to make primary care a more full-bodied experience is

She and Dr. Tracy Hu are co-founders of East Bay Health. The clinic will have a kitchen facility where I plan to provide hands-on lessons in healthy cooking. I will have more details in upcoming columns.

Providing food for thought, Lustig said research shows that 73% of items on grocery store shelves qualify as ultra-processed food, which can be classified as “poison” as it actually inhibits mitochondrial function (producing energy on the cellular level).

Ultra-processed food is Class 4, with the clearest example of the scale being an apple:

An apple plucked from the tree is Class 1 processed food.

An apple slice is Class 2. Unsweetened applesauce is Class 3.

McDonald’s apple pie or

Lustig suggested visiting EatReal.org to get more information about efforts to ensure school cafeterias everywhere serve real food.

At the Temple Isaiah event, we practiced what we preached. My catering company prepared a diverse meal with no processed food. I told the women that it was an example of the food you should eat, and that drew applause.

With assistance from temple volunteers, we made the meal together with love and camaraderie. And after dinner, we listened to the words of a few honored guests.

MOCK TUNA SALAD

4 servings

15-oz. can chickpeas, drained (or 1½ c. cooked chickpeas)

¼ c. vegan mayonnaise (or hummus)

1 nori sheet, finely chopped

¼ c. red onion, finely chopped

1 T lemon juice

10 capers, finely chopped (or fresh dill, or chopped dill pickles)

1 stalk celery, chopped

½ tsp. garlic powder

1 T nutritional yeast (or miso paste)

1 T tamari or soy sauce

½ T Dijon mustard

½ tsp. white vinegar

Sprinkle of sea salt

Sprinkle of ground black pepper

Add chickpeas to a mixing bowl and mash with a fork. Add rest of ingredients and stir. Taste and add more salt and pepper if needed.

Cindy Gershen is a culinary teacher and the chef-owner for 40 years of Sunrise Bistro and Catering in Walnut Creek. Send your questions and comments to cindymgershen@gmail.com.

Ginochio family once farmed 12,000 acres in Concord

I had a lot of fun trying to figure out the history of the pioneering Ginochio family and narrowed it down to the arrival of three brothers.

Antonio was the first to settle in Concord, with his wife, Marchillena. They had come from New York after leaving Genoa, Italy, in 1867. He started by renting a ranch from the Bancroft family near Heather Farms which extended all the way to what is now Concord Community Park. Eventually, they bought the house that was formerly the DeRosa home on Cowell Road.

They had nine children: five sons, John, Louis, David, Peter and Anthony, who died at a young age, and four

daughters, Mary, Lena, Angelina and Azalia.

The next to arrive was Giovanni in 1876. He did not like farming the land, so he got a job in the coal mines in Nortonville. When the mines closed, he moved to Ygnacio Valley but came back to Nortonville and opened a boarding house and saloon and got into ranching.

Pietro, the youngest of the boys, moved to Concord in 1883. With him came Giovanni’s wife Angelina with their first child, Marie. Giovanni and Angelina had four other children: John, Elizabeth, Louis and Amelia.

Pietro worked with Giovanni in the coal mines but went back to Italy to get his

CAROL LONGSHORE YESTERYEAR

wife, Angelina Moresco. He returned in 1890 and bought a ranch on Clayton Road that extended to Mount Diablo Street and to Cowell Road.

Pietro and Angelina had five children: John, Angelo, Louis, Ermeda and Guido. He had built a house on Dover Way

and there happened to be a big oak tree on the property. It stands to this day on the subdivided land that was later sold by Pietro’s grandson, Bobbie.

As time went by, all three brothers had good size farms – with about 2,500 animals grazing over 12,000 acres of land. By the way, none of them finished school because they had to go to work.

Between them, they had 19 children, which is why a lot of us have known a Ginochio or two.

Carol Longshore has been a Concord resident since 1950. She is a community leader and past president of the Concord Historical Society. Send comments and suggestions for future topics to editor@pioneerpublishers.com.

Contributed photo

Dr. Rob Lustig, Cindy Gershen and a bowl of quinoa salad at Temple Isaiah in Lafayette.

Photo courtesy Concord Historical Society

The three Ginochio brothers moved to Concord in the 1800s.

CINDY GERSHEN FARM TO TASTE

Commissioner says girls flag football is ‘Going to blow up’

Before this week’s inaugural round of girls flag football games in the Diablo Athletic League commissioner Mark Tran spoke in enthusiastic terms about the newest sport the California Interscholastic Federation has approved for official play in the state.

“I’m so excited [about the start of flag football]. It’s going to blow up,” Tran told The Pioneer.

The first-ever DAL games this Wednesday are in a very abbreviated schedule. Ten schools are taking part in this first season including College Park, Northgate and Clayton Valley Charter locally.

Although both the Diablo and East Bay athletic leagues embraced the new sport when the state CIF approved 7v7

flag football there will be no post-season playoffs as the North Coast Section did not know if there would be the critical mass to warrant them this fall.

Based on the amount of interest it is virtually certain that will change in 2024. Tran is going to partially remedy that situation locally with a one-day DAL championship playoff on Saturday, Nov 11.

Carondelet is the only EBAL school not taking part this year. Athletic director Piper Brewster explained, “We already sponsor girls rugby in the fall season so we thought that it may take away from that sport since we are a small school. If there is a lot of interest though then we would potentially add it for 2024.”

The DAL schedule is a single round-robin involving the 10 schools with Wednesday

games at 5, 6 and 7 p.m. Because of the three games per site setup the first three weeks will have nine games between league schools which will be considered non-league

and not count in the standings. On the final four Wednesdays one school will have a bye with games held at three sites among three teams with each squad playing two games.

Terrapin swimmers compete at Summer Jr. Nationals

Last month the Terrapins Swim Team sent four boys to the USA Summer Junior Nationals Championships in Irvine, the fastest 18-under meet in America. The quartet, from left, of Diego Castaneda, Adam Wong, Aden Li and Mason Wendler racked up 12 best times. Castaneda at Clayton Valley Charter and Wendler at Northgate recently completed successful high school seasons. Terrapin coaches feel the exposure to the top level of competition in the country at Jr. Nationals will motivate the swimmers to “come back ready to rock in the upcoming season.”

2210 Castro Street Martinez

Games have two 20-minute halves with a running clock except for the final two minutes of each half. There is a five-minute halftime, so games should take about one hour to complete.

CIF rules call for fields 50 to 80 yards in length with 10yard end zones. Field width can vary from 30 to 40 yards. There is no punting or kickoffs, so goal posts are not used.

RULES FOR WIDE OPEN PLAY

The game is designed to be wide open with no blocking, moving screens, bump and run coverage, stiff arming or excessive contact. The ball carrier is “tackled” when one of their three 14-1/2 inch flags is pulled by the defense or otherwise comes off.

Up to two defensive players can rush the quarterback as long as they are lined up seven

yards behind the line of scrimmage before the ball is snapped. The quarterback may ground the ball or throw it out of bounds forward intentionally to avoid a sack.

The quarterback (whoever receives the center snap on a play) can only run once per set of downs unless the defense rushes multiple players, in which case the quarterback can run. All players are eligible receivers.

There is a five-yard no run zone in front of each end zone and for certain plays. No run zones are designed to avoid short-yardage, power-running situations to help avoid blocks, screens and excessive contact.

Scoring is the same as football for touchdown, safety and point after (1 or 2 points based on length of play). Tie games will go to overtime.

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Photo courtesy Clayton Valley Charter High School Athletics

Over two dozen players are part of the first-ever Clayton Valley Charter High School girls flag football team, which is part of the 10-team Diablo Athletic League this fall. The Ugly Eagles first official games are Sept. 20 at Acalanes in Lafayette.

Photo courtesy Terrapins Swim Team

Athlete Spotlight

Mixed results for local schools during first three weeks of football season

BEDECARRÉ

There’s been some good, some bad and some ugly as the fall football season enters its fourth weekend for local schools.

Only College Park, with two wins for new coach Casey Moreno, is unbeaten in the early going while Mt. Diablo seemed on its way to a 3-0 start before losing late last Friday at Oakland Tech in the Red Devils first road game.

Perennial powers De La Salle and Clayton Valley Charter have each won only one of their first three games while Northgate, a North Coast Section playoffs semi-finalist a year ago, and Ygnacio Valley are without a win in three outings.

Ben Hosler

School: Northgate High

Grade: Senior

Sports: Football and Baseball

Veteran Northgate football coach Ben Ballard says, “Ben is one of the team captains this year who leads by example on the field. Ben is a guy that plays this game with a high intensity, and it shows on every play.” The running back and outside linebacker in his third varsity season for the Broncos scored a pair of touchdowns and rushed 26 times for 165 yards in a recent wild 44-42 loss in Mill Valley to Tamalpais High. Northgate was stopped inches short of tying the game after posting a 21-0 advantage in the fourth quarter. Northgate is off to a slow start this year after reaching the North Coast Section Division III semi-finals last fall. They begin Diablo Athletic League play Sept. 29 at crosstown rival Las Lomas facing a difficult six-game slate of games that will determine their post-season fate. Hosler grew up in Clayton playing youth sports. When it came time to select a high school he opted to attend Northgate, not following in his parent’s footsteps as they both attended and played sports at Clayton Valley. He’s maintained a 3.9 GPA while playing football and baseball in school. Hosler enjoys mountain biking and weightlifting and hikes with his family. His goal for next year is to attend a four-year college to study business or engineeringwhile continuing to play football.

The Pioneer congratulates Ben and thanks Athlete Spotlight sponsors Dr. Laura Lacey & Dr. Christopher Ruzicka who have been serving the Clayton and Concord area for over three decades at Family Vision Care Optometry.

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@pioneerpublishers.com

Concord High’s first two games saw the Minutemen lose by a combined 90-0. Returning all-league back Monte Beam took things into his own hands last Friday scoring all 26 points as Concord prevailed over San Lorenzo 26-21.

Beam’s fourth touchdown and two-point conversion came with 11 seconds left in the game and his team trailing 21-18. Even after those heroics, San Loreno then threw a mighty scare into Concord with a long pass completion that was stopped by Concord defenders inside the Minuteman 10-yard line.

Clayton Valley Charter’s new head coach Nick Tisa saw his Ugly Eagles shut out for the first time since 2016 last Friday in El Dorado Hills to unbeaten Oak Ridge after CVCHS lost its home opener the week before to undefeated Higley of Arizona 37-27.

TURNER TURNING HEADS

Transfer runningback Herschel Turner Jr. has been the area’s individual standout with 14 touchdowns in Mt. Diablo’s three games while rushing 40 times for 842 years, almost matching his season total last year for Freedom of Oakley. As a junior Turner scored 14 TDs and rushed for 911 years.

Since he was named the MVP runningback at an Under Armour Camp in Southern California this summer he’s been attracting interest from colleges. About 10 schools are now looking at the 247 Sports

three-star back. New MD coach Fetuao Mua says he expects his prized offensive weapon will be a four star by the end of the season.

Last Friday, Oakland Tech scored at the 3:54 mark of the fourth quarter to pull ahead of Diablo 31-27. The Red Devils drove to the Tech 30 inside the last minute before turning the ball over on downs.

SPUTTERING SPARTANS REBOUND

Coach Justin Alumbaugh’s young De La Salle team is three weeks into one of the state’s most challenging schedules. The Spartans avoided their first 0-3 start in 48 years with a strong fourth-quarter effort at Saint Francis in Mountain View for a 37-17 victory. The Lancers were the team to halt DLS’s 30-year Northern California unbeaten streak on the same field two years ago.

The Concord power lost its opening games to nationally ranked and top six state teams Orange Lutheran and rival Serra in San Mateo.

The 28-0 shutout to Serra was the first time the school was shut out since 2005 (7-0 to Clovis West) and was the largest shutout defeat in 44 years since Salesian blanked DLS 32-0 in 1979 when Bob Ladouceur was in his first year as head coach.

The legendary Coach Lad was in San Mateo to watch one of his star protégé’s, Patrick Walsh, coach Northern California’s No. 1 ranked Padres to their second successive win over his alma mater.

After facing three highly

ranked teams the Spartans schedule doesn’t get any easier with Saint Mary's-Stockton (No. 16 in California), Folsom (No. 15), McClymonds (No. 62), San Ramon Valley (25) and Clayton Valley Charter (84) stilll on their schedule.

2001 DE LA SALLETEAM NAMED AMERICA’S GREATESTEVER

The loss to Serra came in the same week that ESPN named De La Salle’s 2001 team America’s greatest high school football team ever.

ESPN released a list of their 50 greatest high school football teams of all-time topped by the 2001 Spartans, who won the school’s fourth successive mythical national championship that year including the historic 29-15 win over Long Beach Poly (No. 50 on the all-time list). Two books were written about that game which featured seven future NFL players including De La Salle running back Maurice Jones-Drew, now a coach and parent for his alma mater.

That 2001 Spartan team outscored its opponents, including Southern California powerhouses Long Beach Poly and Mater Dei, by a combined 531-65. In just two games this year’s DLS team surrendered 63 points.

De La Salle’s 2003 team, the one which completed the national record 151-game winning streak, is No. 15 in the alltime top 50, which restricted schools to a maximum of two entries on the list.

WEEK 4 SCHEDULE –SEPT. 15

Clayton Valley Charter (12) at Turlock (0-4)

College Park (2-0) at Antioch (2-1)

St. Mary's-Stockton (3-0) at De La Salle (1-2)

San Lorenzo (1-1) at Mt. Diablo (2-1)

Washington-San Francisco (1-1) at Ygnacio Valley (0-3)

Northgate (0-3) and Concord (1-2) byes

SEASON SCHEDULES

Clayton Valley Charter (Open Div./Div. 1) - 8/25 W 17-0 at Salinas, 9/1 L 27-37 Higley-Gilbert, AZ, 9/9 L 0-28 at Oak Ridge-El Dorado Hills, 9/15 at Turlock, 9/29 JesuitCarmichael, 10/6 San Ramon

Valley, 10/13 Foothill-Pleasanton, 10/20 Monte VistaDanville, 10/27 at CaliforniaSan Ramon, 11/3 at De La Salle.

College Park (Div. 3) –8/25 W 14-0 at Fremont-Oakland, 9/8 W 49-14 at Oakmont-Roseville, 9/15 at Antioch, 9/22 Acalanes-Lafayette, 9/29 Miramonte, 10/6 at Campolindo, 10/13 Las Lomas, 10/20 Northgate, 10/27 at Benicia, 11/3 Alhambra.

Concord (Div. 4) - 8/25 L 0-41 at Newark MemorialNewark, 9/1 L 0-49 at Alameda, 9/8 W 26-21 San Lorenzo, 9/9/14 Archie Williams-San Anselmo, 9/22 Mt. Eden-Hayward, 9/29 Alhambra, 10/6 Las Lomas, 10/13 at Ygnacio Valley, 10/21 at Berean Christian, 10/27 Mt. Diablo.

De La Salle (Open Div./Div. 1) – 8/25 L 14-35 Orange Lutheran-Orange, 9/2 L 0-28 at Serra-San Mateo, 9/8 W 35-17 at Saint FrancisMountain View, 9/15 St. Mary's-Stockton, 9/22 at Folsom, 9/29 McClymonds-Oakland, 10/13 San Ramon Valley, 10/20 Foothill-Pleasanton, 10/27 at Monte Vista–Danville, 11/3 Clayton Valley Charter.

Mt. Diablo (Div. 4) - 8/25 W 39-28 Deer Valley, 9/1 W 40-14 Mission-San Francisco, 9/8 L 27-31 at Oakland Tech, 9/15 San Lorenzo, 9/22 at Castlemont-Oakland, 10/6 Ygnacio Valley, 10/13 at Alhambra, 10/21 Berean Christian, 10/28 at College Park, 11/4 Concord.

Northgate (Div. 3) - 8/25 L 10-35 at Reno, 9/1 L 42-44

Tamalpais-Mill Valley, 9/8 L 040 Twelve Bridges-Lincoln, 9/22 at Miramonte, 9/29 at Las Lomas, 10/6 at Acalanes, 10/13 Campolindo, 10/20 at College Park, 10/27 Alhambra, 11/3 Benicia.

Ygnacio Valley (Div. 6) –8/26 L 6-34 Alameda, 9/1 L 038 at Lower Lake, 9/9 L 26-48 Kennedy-Richmond, 9/15 Washington-San Francisco, 9/23 at Galileo-San Francisco, 9/29 at Pinole Valley, 10/6 at Mt. Diablo, 10/13 Concord, 10/20 at Alhambra, 10/27 Berean Christian.

Kara Kohler qualifies USA single sculls for Paris Olympics but just misses podium at World Rowing Championships

Clayton’s Kara Kohler accomplished her team goal but just missed out on achieving her personal target when she finished fourth last Sunday at the World Rowing Championships single sculls A finals in Belgrade, Serbia.

Kohler won her first three races in Belgrade and her victory in the second of four

semi-finals secured a place for the United States in the event at next summer’s Paris Olympics where the Clayton Valley High and Cal Berkeley rower hopes to make her third Olympics appearance. She represented the US at the 2012 London and 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

The podium for the 2023 World Championships single sculls was exactly the same as the 2022 championships with

the Netherlands' Karolien Florijn getting the gold medal, New Zealand's Emma Twigg silver and Australia's Tara Rigney bronze as the trio topped a field of 32 rowers.

Kohler was sixth off the start in a tight finals race, less than a length down on a medal position. She moved into fourth place in the second 500 meters, sitting about threequarters of a length behind Rigney in third.

But Rigney was able to extend her advantage during the third 500 meters, gaining open water on Kohler by the 1,500-meter mark. Kohler held off Bulgaria's Desislava Angelova to finish fourth in a 7:23.98, nearly three seconds behind Riney.

The Clayton rower overcame Rigney in the final 500 meters to win the second semifinal which moved her into the finals and secured a spot for the U.S. at the Paris Games. She got off the line in fourth position, sitting about a length off Rigney's lead at the 500meter mark. The American cut Rigney's advantage to about a

half-deck length at the midway point of the race and continued her push in the third quarter, cutting Rigney's lead down to just a couple of feet at the 1,500-meter mark. She made another move to pull her bowball ahead with about 350 meters to go and then pulled away for the victory. Kohler clocked a 7:44.66 to win the race by 1.76 seconds over Rigney.

After the semi-final win she said, "It's emotional. I think at this point, I have experienced almost all the highs and lows of rowing the single, so to be back in the A final is such a relief, and to have the boat qualify [for Paris], I'm proud that I can add that to the USA tally of boats qualified with more to come. Pretty pumped, very excited.

"Simply belief in myself –knowing that I have all the tools within me and knowing that I have to trust (that)," Kohler said about what it took to win the semi. "There's always going to be doubts, and how do you mentally push those aside and do what you know you're capable of doing."

Kohler, a 10-time national team member, had advanced to the semifinals by winning the third quarterfinal by open water. "Going up against Serbia, [I knew] the hometown energy would be tough. I've been there before, so I was ready for that," Kohler said. "The goal was to win, so check that box and move on to the biggest race of the regatta –the A/B semifinal. Each race you have to reset. Everyone is going to bring their A game, so the goal is to always put the bowball first."

Kohler was 13th last year at the Worlds and was the 2019 World Rowing Championships' bronze medalist. She won a bronze medal at this year’s World Rowing Cup II.

HERSCHEL TURNER JR. MT. DIABLO

JAY

The Pioneer

Photo courtesy USRowing

Clayton’s Kara Kohler finished fourth at the World Rowing Championships single sculls A finals in Belgrade, Serbia. She qualified the United States for that event next summer at the Paris Olympics. The local rower hopes she fills that spot for America by earning her third Olympic team berth.

College Park wins Ed Sias cross country boys title

EBAL Championships

Nov. 4 (Newhall Park, Concord)

NCS Team Championships

Nov. 7-11

Goat in tow, ‘Billie Blaster’ is loads of fun

over Earth.

Three juniors led College Park to the narrowest of victories in the large school boys division of the Ed Sias Invitational cross country meet last Saturday at Hidden Valley Park in Martinez.

Jack Rattary (second place) and classmates Blake Leung (16th) and Liam Moore (25) led the way for the Falcons to place one point ahead of Dublin. Clayton Valley Charter with Daniel Martinez fifth and Daniel Messer six took sixth overall and De La Salle was 16th.

In the girls small school division Carondelet paced by Kendall Foxworthy (seventh) took sixth and Northgate was 11th.

FALL SCHEDULES

CROSS COUNTRY (BOYS & GIRLS)

DAL Center Meets Sept. 27 and Oct. 18

DAL Championships Nov. 4 (Hidden Valley Park, Martinez)

Nov. 18 (Hayward High School)

NCS Championships

CIF State Championships

Nov. 25 (Woodward Park, Fresno)

GOLF (GIRLS)

DAL League Matches TBA

EBAL League Matches

Aug. 29 – Oct. 12

DAL League Championships TBA

EBAL League Championships Oct. 16

NCS Division II Championships Oct. 23

NCS Division I Championships Oct. 30

NorCal Championships

Nov. 6

CIF State Championships

Nov. 15

TENNIS (GIRLS)

DAL League Matches Sept.

5 – Oct. 19

EBAL League Matches

Sept. 14 – Oct. 26

DAL Division Championships Oct. 24-26

EBAL Championships

Nov. 2-6

Athlete Spotlight

NCS Singles/Doubles Championships Nov. 13-14

NorCal Team Championships Nov. 14-18

CIF State Team Nov. 25 (Fresno)

VOLLEYBALL (GIRLS)

DAL League Games Sept.

5- Oct. 19

EBAL League Games Sept.

5 -Oct. 17

EBAL Championships

Oct. 19-21

NCS Playoffs Oct. 24 –Nov. 4

NorCal Championships

Nov. 7-14

CIF State Championships

Nov. 17-18

WATER POLO (BOYS & GIRLS)

DAL League Games Sept.

20 – Oct. 25

EBAL League Games Aug.

31 – Oct. 26

DAL Division Championships Oct. 26-28

NCS Playoffs Nov. 1-11

NorCal Tournament Nov. 14-18

SUNNY SOLOMON BOOKIN’ WITH SUNNY

Get ready for an out-ofthis-world recommendation for “Billie Blaster and The Robot Army from Outer Space.”

I’m still not sure why I requested a review copy of the latest graphic book by Laini Taylor and Jim De Bartolo, but it’s been a tough year, and maybe I thought I’d need something to lift my spirits.

I had a new mystery review ready, but it will have to wait. Some might think recommending a graphic novel marketed to the younger reader is not likely to be taken seriously by the well-rounded and sophisticated readers of The Pioneer. My hope is that I’m not the only adult who needs a boost.

Billie Blaster is the daughter of parents who are both scientists. If graphic novels are to be taken seriously, they prefer not to be called comic books. However, the first

DOMINIQUE KING LEANIN WITH LOVE

Manuel Serna

School: Clayton Valley Charter High

Grade: Senior Sport: Football

Manuel Serna has had a lot to tackle on and off the football field and he’s been rewarded for his efforts. As a kid, Serna played on several basketball and baseball teams, learning fundamental principles of being a team athlete. By the age of six, he began his football career playing for the Concord Cobras all while his father was fighting heart disease and beating kidney cancer. Eventually, Serna began his high school career on the freshmen team at Clayton Valley Charter and by his sophomore year he was an offensive tackle on varsity. In addition, Serna trained with Stag Elite linemen challenges and worked during his off season to perfect his technique, helping him earn the CVCHS junior of the year award. Coach Nick Tisa had a lot to say about his 6-5, 300pound lineman. “His work ethic is contagious and he’s a commander of the program. Off the field, he has such a kind and warm heart. . .The world is a better place with people like Manny Serna in it.” Serna’s journey to where he is now has been a challenge through family struggles with his father currently fighting pancreatic cancer and waiting for a heart transplant, and his grandmother battling breast cancer. ll of these experiences have culminated in this senior season, where he and his teammates are aiming for a state championship. Despite all of these challenges, Serna is ready for his senior season and already committed to play for San Jose State next year. He chose the Spartans over a half dozen other interested college programs around the country.

CVCHS student journalist Corinne Jeandheur wrote this Spotlight.

The Pioneer congratulates Manny and thanks Athlete Spotlight sponsors Dr. Laura Lacey & Dr. Christopher Ruzicka who have been serving the Clayton and Concord area for over three decades at Family Vision Care Optometry.

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@pioneerpublishers.com

Q. You’re either a narcissist or an empath these days, and I’m leaning toward narcissism because these self-diagnosed empaths drive me nuts. Especially my best friend, whom I love. But between her newly found identity of being an empath and her TikTok diagnosis of autism, I’m on the verge of losing my cool. What are your thoughts on friend breaks, and how long is an appropriate time to take a cooling period from a friend? – Beth

A. There’s a growing trend of individuals identifying themselves as either empaths or displaying narcissistic tendencies. It’s essential to approach these labels and selfdiagnoses with caution and skepticism.

picture and ballooned text made me laugh out loud. “She might look like an ordinary girl …” Ordinary? Not according to the book cover.

Billie is a young scientist herself, already winning school science awards. She lives on Earth, an Earth well into the future. Her nemesis is her schoolmate Hector Glum. Prepare for puns. Hector is also a junior scientist, angry at winning only second place to all Billie’s firsts.

Through a lot of experiments performed by Billie, her parents and Hector, Hector is shrunk to 4 inches high. You can’t really say 4 inches tall with a straight face – another out-loud laugh. Not all the experiments turn out quite as expected. In addition to Hector’s 4 inches, he has also become mean and revengeful. And an awardwinning experiment by Billie has gone in an unexpected and seriously dangerous direction. The result of both these experiments creates the plot for this delightful story of an evil leader of a distant planet (Bonkers), who, with the help of the now evil Hector, is determined to take

Of course, the hero is Billie Blaster and her goat friend – who has received a brain booster thanks to an earlier experiment by Billie’s mother. Billie and her goat build a spaceship and rocket off to thwart the evil plan of Bonker’s emperor.

Does Billie Blaster succeed? No spoilers here. Within the wildly colorful pages of Billie’s story, are life topics all of us, from children to adults, must deal with: families, unfairness, disappointment, friendships, kindness, science.

The illustrations come alive with color and settings on the page. The humor is there for kids and certainly for adults who dare to remember being kids. I’m glad I requested “Billie Blaster.” It is already, face out, on the bookshelf of books just for the grandkids. Hector Glum has not gone away – our girl Billie will be back.

Sunny Solomon is a freelance writer and head of the Clayton Book Club. Please visit her website at bookinwithsunny.com for her latest recommendations or just to ‘talk books.’

Develop a plan before taking a friendship break

Narcissism and empathy exist on a spectrum, and trained professionals should make valid diagnoses. It can be frustrating when people adopt these labels without thoroughly understanding the underlying psychology or using them for attention-seeking purposes.

It appears that your best friend’s recent self-identification as an empath and her TikTok diagnosis of autism have been challenging for you to navigate. It’s understandable that you might feel overwhelmed or frustrated by these developments, especially if they change the dynamics of your friendship.

Beth, please recognize that friendships can sometimes benefit from a cooling-off period. Like any other relationship, friendships can experience strain, disagreements or changing dynamics over time. A break can allow both parties to gain perspective, recharge and reflect on their feelings.

The duration of a friend break is highly individual and depends on the specific cir-

cumstances and the needs of those involved. Here are some factors to consider when determining the appropriate length of a friend break:

Communication: Having an open and honest conversation with your friend about the need for a break is crucial. Discuss your feelings, concerns and what you hope to achieve during the break. Together, you can decide on a reasonable timeframe.

Purpose: Consider the purpose of the break. Is it to gain perspective on the friendship, address specific issues or take a temporary step back? The purpose will influence the duration of the break.

Mutual agreement: Ideally, you and your friend should agree on the break length to ensure that both parties feel comfortable with the timeframe.

Flexibility: Be open to reassessing the duration if needed. What initially seemed like a reasonable timeframe might need to be extended or shortened based on evolving circumstances.

Sugar might be the

scariest

thing about Halloween

The fall holidays will soon be upon us, and Halloween is a favorite for many.

Halloween grew from the Celtic harvest celebration known as Samhain, celebrated at a time when the veil between worlds is believed to be just a little thinner.

But I digress. This is a health column not a discussion of comparative religions.

Halloween, of course, means sugar – which is a problem in the United States. In and of itself, sugar is not evil. It occurs naturally in all things containing carbohydrates, including fruits, vegetables and grains.

Consuming whole foods containing natural sugar is not problematic for most people, and these foods are generally

rich in fiber, minerals and antioxidants. As they are generally digested slowly, the sugar supplies a steady stream of energy to the cells. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains is associated with a lower risk of chronic diseases including diabetes, heart disease and certain cancers.

The problem comes from added sugar, which is used liberally in manufacturing to increase flavor. In the United States, the prime sources of added sugar include soft drinks, fruit drinks, cereal, pastries, candy and most processed foods. Added sugar is also found in bread, soups, cured meats and ketchup. As a result, Americans consume a staggering amount.

According to the National

Cancer Institute, the average adult male consumes 24 teaspoons of added sugar daily –which is an extra 384 calories.

“The effects of added sugar intake – higher blood pressure, inflammation, weight gain, diabetes and fatty liver disease – are all linked to an increased risk for heart attack and stroke,” says Dr. Frank Hu, professor of nutrition at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

So how much is too much?

The Institute of Medicine, which sets Recommended Daily Allowances (RDAs) of nutrients, has no recommendations because sugar is not a nutrient. The American Heart Association sets the maximum consumption for healthy women at 6 teaspoons per day

Reconnection plan: Before the break begins, discuss how you plan to reconnect and how to rebuild the friendship. Having a plan in place can provide a sense of direction and purpose. Self-care: During the break, focus on self-care and personal growth. You can use this time to reflect on your needs, goals and well-being. Taking a break from a friend can be a healthy and constructive way to address challenges within a friendship. I think the appropriate length of the break should be determined through open communication and consideration of the specific circumstances. Ultimately, the goal should be to preserve and strengthen the friendship when both parties are ready to reconnect. Be well; you are worthy.

Dominique King is a wife, mother, lifestyle blogger and avid long-distance runner. Email questions and comments to her at leaninwiththekings@gmail.com.

(100 calories). For healthy men, the upper limit sits at 9 teaspoons (150 calories) –roughly the amount in a 12oz. can of soda.

Many of us (me included) have a serious sweet tooth and dislike deprivation. My advice is to be mindful of the sugar in everything and to read labels. Sugar has many guises: high-fructose corn syrup (the worst), invert syrup, malt sugar, brown sugar, fruit juice

See Sugar, page B4

JAY BEDECARRÉ The Pioneer

A proud cultural history, a group of lively women and a plethora of gorgeous hats with a rich history of their own come together in playwright Regina Taylor’s moving musical “Crowns.”

Produced by Center Rep, the uplifting and inspirational work runs through Oct. 6 at Walnut Creek’s Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr. “Crowns” centers on a community of women who wear brilliant hats for all of life’s occasions. When Chicago-born Yolanda is sent down South, she reluctantly enters their world and finds herself

Hats off to ‘Crowns’ by Center Rep

exposed to powerful rituals and a rich history.

For tickets, call 925-9437469 or go to lesherartscenter.org.

Get ready for Clayton Theatre Company’s exciting October production of the musical “Working,” based on the book by Studs Terkel.

This engaging musical takes Terkel’s interviews with American workers from all lines of work and paints vivid portraits of them as they go about their jobs. Whether its Dolores telling why she loves being a waitress, Kate who gets upset when people doubt her intelligence because she’s a stay-at-home-mom or Tom the firefighter becoming emotional about the lives he has saved, they all give a slice of Americana and the pride taken in doing a good day’s work.

The updated show runs Oct. 13-28 at Clayton’s Endeavor Hall, 6008 Center St., and features new songs by Lin-Manuel Miranda as well as favorites by Stephen Schwartz, Craig Carnelia, James Taylor, Micki Grant and more.

Roxanne Pardi directs, with La Tonya Watts as assistant

Sugar, from page B3

it is nearly

director and Jess Reyes as musical director. The cast includes Nathalie Archangel, James Bradley Jr., Kevin Coren, Russ Kladko, Megan Larsen, Mary Katherine Patterson, Linda Sciacqua and Gina Yetner.

For tickets, go to www.claytontheatrecompany.c om.

Cal Shakes offers a variety of entertainment at its beautiful locale at the Bruns Amphitheater in Orinda. While not producing anything itself this season, the company has asked several other groups to bring their shows to the gorgeous outdoor venue. Shakespeare’s epic romantic

impossible to celebrate Halloween without some candy. So have a couple of pieces –provided you have no health condition that increases your risk above that of a normally healthy adult. Enjoy … just keep it minimal and mindful.

Please send comments and question to Nathalie Montijo at newwavenightingale@gmail.com

adventure “Cymbeline,” produced by SF Shakespeare, runs Sept. 16-24.

Adding to the fun is Sewam American Indian Dance Sept. 30, the Food Bank Players’ “Romeo and Juliet” on Sept. 29, musician Michael Franti performing in Notes for Hope’s concert for breast cancer awareness Oct. 6 and “A Midsummer Night’s D&D” Oct. 7.

The outdoor stage is at 100 California Shakespeare Theater Way, Orinda. For tickets, go to www.calshakes.org.

Spontaneous Mind is at it again. The wacky company presents the Improv Partners in crime at 2:30 p.m. Sept. 17 at the Martinez Campbell Theater, 636 Ward St. Back for its 11th installment, the serial production follows the exploits of two partners who use audience suggestions to help create their evolving characters and lead them to their next investigation.

The group has investigated murder, blackmail, jewel heists and kidnapping. Who knows where the two private eyes will go next. Go to www.campbelltheater.com for ticket information.

Smuin Contemporary Ballet celebrates its 30th anniversary season with Dance Series 1, performing at the Lesher Center Sept. 15-16. This fabulous dance company always keeps things interesting. This performance features James Kudelka’s “The Man in Black,” danced in cowboy boots to the music of Johnny Cash; Darrell Grand

Moultrie’s “Salsa ’til Dawn,” a jazzy world premiere with Cuban music; and Val Caniparoli’s “Tutto Eccetto il Lavandino,” a playful neoclassical work set to Vivaldi.

For tickets, call 925-9437469 or go to www.lesherartscenter.org.

Pittsburg Theatre Company offers something for everyone with its 2023-’24 mainstage season at the California Theatre, 351 Railroad Ave., Pittsburg.

Series, taking place at Steeltown Coffee and Tea in Pittsburg, also offers a host of entertainment beginning with “Medal of Honor Rag” Nov. 10-23. That’s followed by “The White Card” Jan. 26-28 and continuing its run Feb. 211 at the Campbell Theatre in Martinez.

The company has two holiday entertainment options: “Frozen Jr.” Dec. 8-9 at the California Theatre and “It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio

Chris Hardy

James’ Kudelka’s acclaimed “The Man in Black,” danced to the music of Johnny Cash, returns to the Lesher Center Sept. 15-16.

Mel Brooks’ “Young Frankenstein the Musical” starts things off Oct. 6-22, followed by Tennessee Williams’ “A Streetcar Named Desire” Feb. 16-25. April 16May 5 brings something for younger theatergoers with Roald Dahl’s “Willy Wonka the Musical,” and the season closes with Neil Simon’s “The Sunshine Boys” June 14-23. The company’s Black Box

Show” Dec. 9-10 at the California Theatre and continuing Dec. 15-16 at the Campbell. Go to www.ptcca.org for all the details.

Sally Hogarty is well known around the Bay Area as a newspaper columnist, theatre critic and working actress. She is the editor of the Orinda News. Send comments to sallyhogarty@gmail.com

New artist draws on past experiences

As a child growing up in Southern California, Natalie Gamble was surrounded by the arts and a family of makers and fixers.

Her mother and grandmother were seamstresses. Both parents were avid gardeners. An uncle could make anything out of metal and wood, and her grandfather was a mechanic.

Besides crayons, Gamble always had access to extra fabric, sewing needles and thread, as well as scraps of wood and woodworking tools. What she heard from her creative family members while growing up was, “Oh, I like that. I can make that.” Those words have inspired her throughout her life.

In elementary school, Gamble began thinking outside the box, thanks to her art teacher who had the class paint a picture without using brushes. “Ms. Segal gave me the gift of artistic freedom. She helped me see that the limits to my art and my life existed only in my mind,” recalls Gamble.

In middle school, she learned about collage and multimedia art – two art disciplines that are still part of her art to this day. But it wasn’t until July 2022 that Gamble discovered painting, after visiting her cousin’s art studio in Los Angeles. She saw her cousin’s brushes and canvases and decided that she could do that, too. Back home, she made her first brush-on-canvas painting and developed a

love for acrylic painting.

Things really began to change in 2023. It started Jan. 1, when Gamble made a New Year’s resolution to paint every day – even if only for 10 minutes. Then she lost her job, and she also had to have ankle surgery. Bad as that may sound, Gamble feels it was a blessing because she suddenly had loads of time to develop her artwork.

Gamble is a self-taught artist with no formal art training. She goes to galleries and museums. She loves getting up close to paintings to try to figure out the artists’ techniques. She likes using artistic detective work to figure things out, like a puzzle.

She is always experimenting with new tools and techniques. She recently made collages out of paint peelings, using the bits of dried acrylic paint from her palette.

“The paint peelings are this very whimsical, ridiculous

side of me,” says Gamble. “It’s all humor.”

When she began painting, Gamble found inspiration from her own photos. She sought to capture the feeling of the moment on canvas but felt that something was missing. She read the book “Women in the Picture” by art historian Catherine McCormack, about how Western culture has developed the way women are viewed historically. It gave her a new perspective and a motivation for her artwork going forward.

“I felt real rage,” says Gamble. “We haven’t even been able to tell our own story.”

One satisfying project from that realization are her three paintings of interiors that were decorated entirely by women for women. Gamble feels that her art is “moving toward spaces where women

See Artist, page B5

SALLY HOGARTY STAGE STRUCK

John Nakanishi

Natalie Gamble hosts art shows at her Concord home –even depicting an event in her artwork.

JOHN NAKANISHI ARTSIN MOTION

Young musicians – and young crowds – search for a home

rant with live entertainment that isn’t exclusive to a 21 and over crowd.

DAVE HUGHES THE BEAT OF DIABLO

In last month’s column, I looked at the scarcity of allages music venues in our region from the perspective of a local business owner and a concert promoter. Now, let’s hear from the performers on the subject.

“I like the idea of all-ages shows,” says Troy Hazleton, whose rock/reggae group Planting Seeds has been performing locally for more than 20 years. “It’s nice to expose younger people to your music. They don’t come to shows to drink, they come to listen to music.”

Planting Seeds recently performed at WiseGirl in Pleasant Hill, an Italian restau-

“Great place, great food, friendly staff and, most importantly, all ages,” Hazleton notes. “I was happily surprised there were about a dozen kids, and they were listening and dancing. They were by far the loudest at the end of each song. The youth always seem to bring excitement to a show.”

Several restaurants across Diablo Valley welcome patrons under 21 for live music – often outside and in the daytime. But most seem reluctant to have minors on their stages.

Ava Toton is a 14-year-old musician from Contra Costa County who’s grown increasingly frustrated over the lack of access to stage time for artists her age.

“With so many music schools in the East Bay, there is an abundance of under 21 talent with basically zero stage time available,” laments Toton, a former student of School of Rock San Ramon.

“There are a lot of roadblocks in the area for the under 21 music scene. Liquor

laws are partially responsible, but there are ways around it … maybe it’s just too much of a hassle.”

Toton’s rock band Alpha Z has a difficult time booking local shows due to the lack of all-ages venues. They’ve had some success in the North Bay, citing HopMonk Tavern in Novato and Sweetwater Music Hall in Mill Valley as venues that will book quality underage acts. But as Toton points out, that kind of travel can be problematic for artists.

“It would be impossible to get my friends/family/fans to make the one-hour drive for an 8 p.m. start time on a weeknight,” she says. “If we had local places like this, we could promote to our local audience.”

Open mic nights at the Campbell Theater in Martinez and Bradley School of Music in Lafayette do welcome performers of all ages. While this is useful for some solo musicians, it offers no solution for young bands like Alpha Z who are looking to develop their sound, ability and namerecognition through live performances.

Welcome fall by growing a bounty of new veggies

“It would be ideal to have access to venues that have a house drum kit, mics/stands, monitors, amps, mixing board … basically a place we can quickly set up, play an hour or two and get off the stage quickly for the next act,”

Toton says.

School of Rock hosts live shows for young rock bands several times a year, however, as Toton explains, these quarterly showcases are mostly limited to school gymnasiums or senior/community centers

– a far cry from a true rock ’n’ roll environment.

“If you google ‘School of Rock shows’ for most other cities, you will see photo after photo of actual music venues and clubs hosting these events,” Toton says While the Toton family has considered relocating to a more nurturing environment for a young rocker like Ava, she holds onto hope that our region will eventually come around to more all-ages opportunities with regard to live music.

“The makings of a music movement are here in the East Bay. The talent is overflowing. Our venues just need to take a chance and give my generation its moment to shine.”

Contact Dave Hughes at MrDaveHughes@gmail.com.

NICOLE HACKETT GARDEN GIRL

The demise of summer’s veggie gardens has begun.

From one day to the next, green leaves rapidly yellow. Production is absent from my squash and cucumbers, only leaving miles of stems with no flower production.

It’s time for me to pull out my tomatoes, cucumbers and squash and prep the soil for my cool season veggies.

Garden soil prep is especially important for a fertile growing situation. We have just asked so much of our soil while growing our summer veggies, and it is time to replenish the soil’s nutrients to maximize the next period of growth.

Fall veggie soil prep does not need the same level of nitrogen as in the spring.

Amend garden soil and raised beds with a premium organic soil conditioner formulated for vegetables. Add an additional 2 inches of chicken manure or earthworm castings as a top dressing, then work into a couple inches of soil.

The trick with a cool season garden is to install plants while the days and soil are still warm enough to jumpstart the roots and top growth. Some of my favorite cool weather options are broccoli, heirloom kale, onions, beets, rainbow chard, lettuce and cauliflower.

For broccoli, consider installing Marathon or Romanesco. The plants grow fast and can be ready to harvest in about 45 days. Most plants give one large head and several smaller offshoots.

Broccoli is best bought in a six-pack. Space plants 18 inches to 2 feet apart.

Keep your eye on your broccoli. Occasionally aphids can become an issue, so have the neem oil handy.

Heirloom kale is leafy, with deep, textured margins. It’s great sautéed, juiced or chopped in a salad. I prefer removing most of the stem before eating.

The great thing about kale is you will enjoy repeated yields. They are very frosthardy, and a six-pack will keep you in kale until spring warms.

We devote an entire bed to onions. Sierra Blanca is a sweet white, and Cabernet red has a skin so deep, it is almost purple. Onion starts will not be ready to enjoy until early spring. Bulb onions can take 100-125 days to mature.

When buying starts in a sixpack, you’ll need to separate each piece of onion. Think about each piece as a thin

Artist, from page B4

rest, heal, grow and simply exist away from the male gaze.”

Gamble draws inspiration from all her life experiences.

“I feel a convergence of all I’ve learned, like multiple rivers dumping into a reservoir, but the dam is breaking and my story is pouring out in artistic expression.”

She doesn’t know how all this will manifest itself into her artwork, but she sounds

excited to find out.

Gamble is currently displaying work at the Concord Public Library and the Side Gate Brewery & Beer Garden in Concord. She plans to have four pieces at the Concord Art Association’s gallery show at the Lindsay Dirkx Brown Art Gallery in San Ramon this November and a table at the Concord Historical Society’s Holiday Market. She also regularly hosts open house and

green onion. We use our finger to create a shallow row and lay each start (separated thin green onion) flat on the soil 3-4 inches from each other. Once you’ve placed all your separated starts, cover the roots with some of the soil from the row.

Keep the onion start in the laying position and water. As the roots gradually grab the soil, the start will pull itself upright. Installing this way will protect you from over-burying the onion.

Rainbow chard is as beautiful to grow as it is yummy. Vibrant stalks of orange, gold and red support wide leaves of flavor. Sauté chard with olive oil and garlic, chop and fold into soups or steam and use as the base for a vegetable quesadilla. You will get repeated harvest from your chard plants for months of use.

A cool weather garden is simple and most always successful. Let’s keep growing food.

Nicole is the Garden Girl at R&M Pool, Patio, Gifts and Garden. You can contact her with questions or comments by email at gardengirl94517@yahoo.com

art shows at her house in Concord.

For more about Gamble and her artwork:

Instagram: @nataliegambleart Art for sale: saatchiart.com/nataliegamble

TikTok: @natskedat

Email: nataliegambleart@gmail.com

John Nakanishi is an acrylic painter and a ceramic artist. Email comments and suggestions for future columns to phjona@gmail.com.

R&M is the place for R&M Celebrates 40

•Sales, repairs & supplies of all pool equipment

•Extensive collections of perennials, annuals,

Years

1983—2023

Pool, Patio, Gifts & Gardens

6780 Marsh Creek Road, Clayton

Family owned and operated since 1983

Hours: Tues-Sat 9-5, Sun 10-4, Closed Monday 925-672-0207

POOL, DARTS, LIVE MUSIC and GOOD FOOD

Mon - Sat 11 am to 1:30 am

Sun 10 am to 1:30am (during football season)

August/Sept. Line-Up

Fri - Sept 15 . . . AP Band

Sat - Sept 16 . . Annie Sampson singing Blues

Fri - Sept 22 . . . PTK Band

Regular Weekly Schedule

Sunday - Corn Toss Open Tournament 1:30 p.m. ($10 to play).

Indie Rock Bands at 7pm (no cover)

Monday - Open Mic Night hosted by Joey Nunez and Vince Lay (no cover)

Sign-up by 8:30

Tuesday - Country Line Dancing with DJ Delta Dave (no cover) 8pm

Wednesday - Karaoke With DJ SolRok (no cover) 8pm start time

Sat - Sept 23 . . Almost Dead, Monster God, Blackwulf, Gurschach & Captive State

Fri - Sept 29 . . . DJ Bobby Raw

Sat - Sept 30 . . Pinball Wizards & Liid Sky

Fri - Oct 6 . . . . . TBA

Sat - Oct 7 . . . . Band of Coyotes & Sabertooth Unicorn

Fri - Oct 13 . . . . DJ Bobby Raw

Sat - Oct 14 . . . DRI featuring Defiance, Hellbender & Frolic

Fri - Oct 20 . . . . Metal Night

Sat - Oct 21 . . . Motorbabe, featuring Immortallica and Unearthed

Thursday - Salsa & Bachata Dance lessons from 7-9 p.m. with instructor Lorans Latin Dance Academy from 9 p.m. on is open dancing with Latin DJ Tonee Salsa/Bachata/Merengue/ Reggaeton ($10 cover after 9pm)

Saturday - Aces Cracked Poker League (free to play) 1pm

Downtown Concord, 2045 Mt. Diablo St. between Salvio and Pacheco Ample free parking is available in the Salvio Street garage.

925-685-9515 www.vinniesbar.com

RAINBOW CHARD MIX

Photo by Laura Poorman

Ava Toton, left, appears with her band Alpha Z at the Bistro in Hayward, a venue that will occasionally feature underage acts with specific conditions.

Annie Sampson - Sept. 16

Barney’s BBQ still delivers home-cooked flavor

Prior to Julia Child, fusion food and culinary academies, the local restaurant scene was much simpler. Choices for decent meals were limited to the likes of the Front Room, the Pioneer Inn, the Adobe and, of course, Barney’s Hickory Pit.

Barney’s has been in Concord since Wilton Barnes (Barney) opened it in 1957. They serve a simple menu of barbecue pork ribs, beef, ham, turkey, steaks, burgers and breakfast,

The success of restaurants like Barney’s and the Sugar Plum Café should not come as a big surprise. Over the years, these iconic eateries have combined quality and consistency.

Even with a change of ownership a few years ago, Barney’s seems suspended in a 1950s culinary time warp.

Typical fare includes their homemade brown barbecue sauce. One might think diners would grow tired of its rather bland taste, but clearly this has

not proven to be the case. They make a spicier red one, but I still prefer the mild recipe invented by Barney himself. When ordering the open-

faced beef, ham, pork and turkey sandwiches, diners will get a large portion of meat smothered by the brown sauce, with white bread on the side.

Sauce inevitably ends up covering the entire plate, so it’s necessary to use a knife and fork to enjoy this Barney’s classic. It virtually defines what has been termed comfort food.

Added to this distinguished list is their version of a French dip sandwich. Barney’s uses a rich broth for dipping and a BBQ beef mixture that offers gastronomical heaven. Barney’s also features a prime rib sandwich and dinner entree Fridays until they run out.

Since 1990, Chef Jesus Jimenez has been preparing meat in a mesquite-burning brick grill and oven. Its origin goes back to when Barney’s first opened.

As might be expected, the smoke from this ancient piece of machinery does not comply with current Spare the Air regulations. Fortunately, the state has grandfathered in this cooking apparatus so it should continue to satisfy the barbecue cravings of Barney’s customers for at least another 50 years.

Despite competition from other barbecue joints, their ribs are among the best locally. They are fully cooked yet moist. Jimenez slow-cooks each rack for more than six hours, unlike other places that par-boil their meat. Barney’s never cuts corners. Their motto continues to be: “We compete in quality, not price.”

Served with the signature BBQ sauce, the ribs come with a choice of homemade potato salad, coleslaw, fries or baked beans that taste like they came from the Betty

Be the best version of yourself

Some may not understand the importance of all these terms. However, it is as important as your very name.

If someone mispronounces your name, you would not waste a second to correct them. This is identity.

enced symptoms of anxiety in the past year, with 50% exhibiting symptoms of depression.

Among all LGBTQIA+ youth surveyed, 81% wanted mental health care in the past. However,

sion and suicidal behavior among LGBTQIA+ teens.

Crocker Cookbook our moms used.

Outside of their famous ribs and barbecue specialties, Barney’s offers a full breakfast menu. They are especially known for steak and eggs sold at a reasonable price.

Barney’s Hickory Pit is open 11 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday at 3446 Clayton Road in Concord. They can be reached at 925680-9761.

EMIL VILLA’S ALSO

WORTH A VISIT

If one prefers a more upscale version of Barney’s, Emil Villa’s at 1495 S. Main in Walnut Creek is a good choice.

September is Suicide

Awareness Month, and Sept.

23 is Bisexuality Day.

Bisexuality is the attraction to both men and women, or to more than one sex or gender. This community has expanded and has added a plus, Bi+.

This allows all who identify as bisexual, pansexual or queer fluid to share in the experiences that are unique to this community vs. that of gays or lesbians.

It is a hard thing for a youth to figure out who they are. Without the right support, this journey can be even more difficult.

LGBTQIA+ youth experience higher rates of mental health challenges than their straight counterparts. The Trevor Project estimates that more than 1.8 million LGBTQIA+ youth (ages 13-24) seriously consider suicide each year in the United States. At least one attempts suicide every 45 seconds.

Seventy percent of LGBTQIA+ teens experi-

56% were unable to access needed care.

Globally, LGBTQIA+ youth are 3.5 times as likely to attempt suicide. Rates of suicide attempts by transgender teens is 5.87 times higher than the average. Bisexual youth are 3.69 times as likely to attempt suicide. Minorities of color/ethnicity/race also experience higher rates.

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) research shows that low family satisfaction, cyberbullying, victimization and unmet medical needs contribute to the higher rates of depres-

Approximately 1 in 10 people identify as non-straight. Imagine the isolation as a youth who can find solidarity merely one-tenth of the time with their peers. Furthermore, in the United States, homosexuality qualified as a mental illness until 1973.

Just imagine people in doubt of your gender pronouns, sex assigned at birth or sexual orientation. In a world that struggles to accept sexuality at face value, many people don’t care to care. We can save our youth from the downfalls of mental health challenges through support, regardless of our opinion. The illness is not love. The true sickness is hate.

Some of us still do not know our purpose. I didn’t know my purpose for a long

time. You might not think you have a purpose, or whether you are worth anything or have any say – but you do. Everyone does and we all need you.

Your heart, your love, your say, your voice.

My wish is that everyone throughout the world truly experiences the most fulfilling and joyous lives as the best version of themselves.

It’s about choice.

It’s about respect.

It’s about time.

For more information about Rainbow Community Center’s wraparound services, please go to rainbowcc.org.

Cristina Zaldana is the volunteer coordinator for Rainbow Community Center. Send comments and questions to christina@rainbowcc.org

For me, nothing beats a rack of pork ribs served with mashed potatoes, gravy and a green salad. Not to be forgotten is Emil Villa’s cornbread, which is inevitably brought home with leftover ribs for my wife.

As a full-service restaurant, they have a more than respectable bakery. Their fresh fruit and cream pies have satisfied sweet tooth cravings for generations of diners.

Emil Villa’s, which opened their first store in Oakland back in 1928, has a proven formula for success. Long live California BBQ.

Rich Eber is a local journalist and long time resident of Concord. He covers topics from politics to gourmet food. Contact him at rjerje@pacbell.net

Richard Eber

For 33 years, chef Jesus Jimenez has faithfully executed Barney’s time proven menu.

CRISTINA ZALDANA ALLTHE COLORS