Diablogazettejan2017digirev

Inside This Issue •Why You’re Not Moving to Canada •Cyber Safety Tips for 2017 •Secret Service Tales - Celebrity Close Encounters •Parent Footprints: 3 Tips to Start the New Year •LegalBriefs: New State Laws for 2017 •Zombie Trademark War Ends •Movie and Book Reviews

AM/PM

WINTER SALE

Diablo Gazette • JANUARY 2017 • Page 2 • www.DiabloGazette.com | www.fb.com/DiabloGazette •(925)-298-9990

Cyber Safety Tips for 2017

computercorner

by William Claney, Computers USA

As we enter 2017, we are reminded of the malicious nature of the internet.

So, I take this moment to remind my readers that cybercrime is a vigorous and disgusting enterprise brought to you by degenerates who are the scum of the earth and they are after you… yes you, right here in the East Bay of California.

Last year I personally interviewed, met, and chatted with seven people from Clayton and Concord that were victimized and swindled out of an average of $7,000 each. This crime is being perpetrated to young and old alike. No one is exempt from the threat, and only a few are being protected with managed anti-virus, anti-malware with cyber security. Globally, cybercrime swindles over one trillion dollars a year.

Standard off-the-shelf retail Antivirus and anti-malware are not enough protection. Really, as an individual, how much of a chance do you have to protect yourself against a web of malcontents?

There is help, but you must commit yourself to protecting your online persona. A quick note, CUSA-Care Security has a superb record protecting its customers against cyber criminals.

Per the Department of Justice (Ohio), an indictment recently filed, a couple from Romania are charged with a criminal conspiracy for creating and distributing malware by claiming to be a telegram from Western Union, an update notice from Norton Antivirus, or the IRS trying to collect taxes. After the malware was released, not only did it “rat-out” their friends by harvesting their email address, it infected them as well.

They got away with over four million by stealing it from their bank accounts.

“The defendants were also able to inject fake pages into legitimate websites such as eBay to make victims believe they were receiving and following instructions from legitimate websites, when they were actually following the instructions of the defendants,” according to DOJ. Further, “When victims with infected computers visited websites such as Facebook, PayPal, eBay or others, the defendants would intercept the request and redirect the computer to a nearly identical website they had created. The defendants would then steal account credentials, [i.e. login user name and passwords]. They used the stolen credit card information to fund their criminal infrastructure, including renting server space, registering domain names using fictitious identities and paying for Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) which further concealed their identities.” These criminals are typical of the 35 thousand or so currently hacking your computer.

Want to fight back? File a complaint with the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3): https://www.ic3.gov/ default.aspx. The IC3 accepts online internet crime complaints.

In summary, your existing anti-virus can no longer protect you. Seek out a managed cybercrime specialist known as an MSP (Managed Service Provider) who will monitor suspicious activity and kill it. Know you are under attack because it is happening right now to everyone, you included. If they find a weakness they WILL exploit it. Report suspicious activity to the Feds and then have a Happy and Secure New Year!

from the publisher

by David King

CONGRATULATIONS to Our Rogue One Contest Winners and Happy New Year!

Congratulations to winners Liane Lingua and Andrew Boustead. They won last month’s Diablo Gazette’s Facebook contest. Each won a pair of tickets and concessions to Brenden Theater to see “Rogue One”. I am sure they will enjoy

the movie. I did. Diablo Gazette is looking forward to 2017 and hope the years brings success and happiness to all. Thanks to all who contribute to our paper, and thank you for reading the Diablo Gazette.

Happy New Year!

20 Concord New Years Resolutions

by Edi Birsan,

Concord City Councilman What can we resolve to do in the next year that might make for a reasonable set of resolutions for our fine city? Here are some: 1. Put Concord back in Concord. After a brutal divisive presidential election let us remember our pledge to be “... indivisible with liberty and justice for all.” We need to remember that in the last election the overwhelming mentality was to vote AGAINST someone rather than support what someone said...or was said to have said...or tweeted or wrote on a bathroom wall in a Greyhound bus station.

2. Finish the intersection of Treat and Clayton Road that has taken on the curse of the Winchester Mystery House with delays and ghostly apparitions of gas tanks past and PG&E utility plans that change.

3. Get Olive Garden to open in Concord.

4. Get a set of ordinances in place

for the smooth transition to legalized retail and commercial operations of cannabis without the use of smoke and mirrrrrrroooooorrrrrrrrs.

5. Get the people empowered with a Directly Elected Mayor plan or at least have a defined rotation of Mayor and Vice Mayor.

6. Support the expansion of live theater performance place downtown and maybe even one-act plays at Todos Santos.

7. Stop the battle of Cars vs. White Picket fence downtown (Concord Blvd and Gallindo). Right now it appears to be a score of Cars -0- Fence 9.

8. Find a solution that works to make the housing crisis go away.

9. Try to get the speed on Clayton Road to drop out of Warp Speed to simple Light Speed.

10. Get four more concerts and maybe even expand to one of the parks and bring back classical music.

11. Have a board game day at Todos Santos Plaza: Settlers of Cataan, Clue, Monopoly, Chess, Diplomacy etc.

12. Get police body cameras so they do

Continues on page 7

Getting Ready to Sell Jennifer Stojanovich Realtor

As we head into 2017, you may be thinking that this is the year to finally put your house on the market. And when you do, you’ll want it to sell quickly for the best possible price. Here are our suggestions for what you need to do to get your home ready to sell.

Detach emotionally. Selling your home can be fraught with emotions, especially if you associate it with some of your cherished family memories. But if you want to be successful, you’ll need to detach. Consciously decide to let go of your emotional attachment to the home, and think of it as a business transaction.

Take the time you need to say goodbye, but then imagine a new family moving in so that you can look forward without regret.

Spruce up the exterior. Buyers have a never-ending supply of online resources to research before contacting an agent.

Browsing photos of listings is easier than ever, and first impressions count. Make your home a standout from the get-go by spending a weekend sprucing up the exterior. Clean up the yard, add some color with flowers and take photos when the light outside best accentuates the positive aspects of your home.

Rent a storage unit. In today’s market, most agents will tell you that staging is key for a quick sale and will help net you the best offers. In order to make your home look it’s best, you’re going to need to de-clutter and de-personalize every room. Now is the time to take down all your family photos, empty out the closets and remove bulky furniture. Renting

a storage unit early gives you a place to keep all your belongings until your official move-out date. It also gives you a head start on packing, which is never a bad idea.

Make needed repairs. Do you have a door handle that keeps falling off? A window that just won’t budge? Have you been covering up a hole in the wall with a strategically placed framed photo? You need to tackle these types of repairs before putting your home on the market. Not sure which repairs to do?

Walk through your house and imagine you are a buyer. What things would stick out to you as potential problems? You should also address any larger issues that may come to light during a home inspection, such as problems with the air conditioning or heating systems.

Do a deep clean. There isn’t a single buyer out there who will be turned on by pet odors or lingering cooking smells.

Once you’ve moved your belongings to storage, do a deep clean of your entire home. Make sure to tackle any strong odors, and clean every nook and cranny.

Remember, buyers will be opening every closet and cabinet door, so you can’t hide anything. If you can afford it, hire a professional cleaning service to get the job done right. It’s a small investment that could have a big payoff in the end.

Compliments of Virtual Results.

Jennifer Stojanovich is a broker associate at Better Homes Realty in Clayton. Visit my blog for more home tips at www. jenniferstojanovich.com.

Diablo Gazette • JANUARY 2017• Page 3 • www.DiabloGazette.com | www.fb.com/DiabloGazette • (925)-298-9990

Flights of Falconry

by Jill Hedgecock The hawk perched on my leathergloved hand weighed next to nothing. Its sunflower-yellow talons—appendages perfectly capable of squeezing the life out of a rabbit—felt more like the grip of a timid child’s hand. These were only a few of the surprises I experienced in September 2016 during the Flying Start course at Cotswold Falconry Center located at Moreton-in-Marsh in southcentral England. In addition to handling several hawk species, a two-foot tall brown snake eagle, and a peregrine falcon, my husband and I marveled at the aerial dynamics of a determined peregrine falcon chasing a lure and were mesmerized by the sunset-hued eyes of an eagle owl.

But best of all was the thrill of having a loose Harris’s hawk fly from a treetop to my gloved hand. To have a wild creature alight on my fist transported me to a state of nirvana.

I understand now why the sport of falconry—defined as the hunting of wild quarry in its natural state and habitat by means of a trained bird of prey—has survived through the ages. Humans preoccupation with birds of prey dates back to 2000 BC when the country of Turkey was called Mesopotamia. Its popularity spread through China and Japan but didn’t hit Western Europe until around 875 AD. Here in the US, the first falconry club was established in 1934.

Through captive breeding and reintroduction, falconry for birds of prey has served a very important conservation function in the United Kingdom.

In the early 1960s, 80% of the peregrine falcon population had disappeared.

Although the population in Scotland rebounded in part due to falconers, the numbers of peregrines are declining again, particularly in regions where pheasant and grouse hunting is popular. During a bird-watching trip in the Angus area of Scotland, I observed “beaters” in action—essentially people brandishing large white flags in great sweeping motions to herd grouse toward bird hunters crouched downslope in a heather field. My birding guide informed

me that, although it is illegal, professional hunting operations are known to shoot birds of prey to protect their game birds.

Falconry does have some pitfalls from a conservation perspective. While many falconers will capture a bird in the fall, hunt through the spring, and release the bird back into the wild, minimizing any real impacts to the breeding population, others have experimented with breeding species hybrids. Scruffy, the first hawk

I handled at the Cotswold Falconry Center was a cross between a sakar hawk and gyrfalcon. Because many handlers release (or lose) their birds to the wild, this crossbreeding could have negative effects on natural populations of pure species. Being kept near other birds can also spread disease. Although not in her book, H is for Hawk by Helen MacDonald (see my BookEnds column), Mabel, the

goshawk that Helen trained to hunt, died at the young age of three from a lung infection. Although some birds of prey trained for hunting are captive-bred, there remains the ethical question of whether it is morally right to extract wild chicks from nests (eyasses) or trap them as immature (passagers) or mature birds (haggards). To encourage the bird to return to its handler, the bird is often kept lean and on the hungry side.

In addition to an incredible time commitment, here in the US, the sport of falconry is highly regulated. To be a falconer, one must pass a falconry test, obtain a hunting license, apprentice with a sponsor, be able to afford the hefty equipment and food costs, secure a license to trap a bird, and, of course, fill out lots of paperwork.

Falconry demonstrations can be found relatively easily in the UK where the roots of this sport run deep. We saw advertisements for castles in both Scotland and England offering falconry demonstrations. After our return to the States, I was surprised to learn that experiences can be had here in California. West Coast Falconry located in Marysville, California, about a twoand-a-half hour drive from the East Bay Area, offers a three-hour Falconry Experience course that costs between $175 to observe or $350 if you want to handle the birds. Other more affordable options include 1.5-hour hawk walks at $140 and a one-hour owl encounter for $60.

Come find out more about falconry and learn about the birds of Scotland from Walnut Creek resident, Jill Hedgecock, at the Thursday, February 2nd meeting of the Mount Diablo Audubon Society in the Camellia Room at Heather Farm Park in Walnut Creek (across the street from The Greenery). Doors open at 6:30 p.m.; the main program begins at 8:00 p.m.

The event is free. For more information about falconry experiences at West Coast Falconry visit: http://westcoast-falconry. com/falconry-experience.

What Really Matters

by Dan Ashley, ABC-7 News Anchor http://abclocal.go.com

The Process, Not the Outcome I’ll be on assignment on the East Coast to anchor our live coverage of the presidential inauguration on January 20th.

Over more than thirty years in television news, I’ve covered all sorts of presidential events from the memorial service for sailors killed aboard the U.S.S. Stark at the Mayport Naval Base in Florida with Ronald Reagan, to the campaigns and conventions. But I’ve never covered an inauguration, so I am looking forward to the experience, although I wish they held in in June if it’s in Washington or in Miami if January— kind of cold there this time of year.

The days are likely to be cold, but they will certainly be long—fourteen, maybe eighteen hours.

That’s always the case when you report live on the East Coast for the West Coast.

The time difference helps us make our deadlines, but it hurts our sleep cycle with an 11:00pm live shot here being done at two in the morning there. No matter.

When Donald Trump takes the oath of office on the 20th of January, it will cap a campaign and a transition that has been filled with a level of animosity and vitriol that we have not seen in modern American politics. It will also begin a term in office that may be equally as divisive. Protests are already being planned for inauguration day and battle lines are already being drawn between

the parties. Will we come together as one nation under this new president? Don’t bet on it. Any more than we have united under most presidents. Deep division is endemic in our system it seems.

I have heard so many people talk about how upset, even devastated, they are by the results of this election—certainly a great many in the Bay Area. But we must remember that a lot of people in a lot of other places around the country feel very differently about the outcome and they are very much looking forward to the next four years and beyond. Many voters were not entirely happy with either choice and voted for their respective candidate with some reservations. Regardless of the outcome of this election or any other, we can all be grateful for a process that allows us to voice our concerns and vote our conscience. Time will tell if President-elect Trump is up to the task and, as Americans, we should all hope that he is successful in leading the country in a positive and safe direction.

Democracy is a messy and difficult process but, What Really Matters, is that it is also elegant in its own way and just. It is in that spirit that I will proudly stand in the freezing cold on January 20th and witness a new president take the reins of a great nation.

Dan Ashley is an anchor at ABC-7 News and can be seen weeknights at 5, 6 and 11 p.m. on ABC-7 and at 9 p.m. on KOFY TV20. Contact him at Dan. Ashley@abc.com. Visit http://www.rockwithpush. com for more on the band.

How to Plan a Garden for 2017

Gardenwise

existing garden features. Then go ahead and include the location of water faucets and any irrigation,

by Jere Peck, Garden Manager especially if in-ground sprinklers The Gardens at Heather Farms are present. You may also want to indicate areas of sun and shade.

Happy New Year and welcome to 2017!

Once you have completed the initial During the month of December, we often sketch, you have made a huge step toward reflect on the passing year and evaluate taking your gardening to the next level. our progress. Then January comes and This drawing will be useful for future we start making promises for a better— seasons and will only get better with age. healthy, more organized, and more Now you abundant—life. are ready Well, now is to move also a great forward time to think with a about plans design and for this year’s start adding garden. plants to We have your sketch. ambitious Gather dreams for pictures of 2017 at the inspiring Gardens garden at Heather scenes and Farms. As long think of as the forces goals you of nature do may want to achieve with your garden not blow us off course, several fantastic space. Place a piece of tracing paper over new additions to The Gardens will be your plan and begin playing around by installed—a fun, interactive Children’s adding new plants and features to your Garden, a large community garden, and design. Unless you have specific plants a state-of-the-art greenhouse facility, just in mind, don’t worry about getting too to name a few. Being a part of the team detailed with plant lists. “Full shade bringing these projects to reality, I have perennials” or “purple and yellow flower gained some insights that I hope may bed” will give you flexibility at spring help you plan your own garden at home. plant sales.

Start by sketching out your garden Lastly, keep in mind that just like a area, and make life easy by using graph room in your house, your garden has four paper. It does not need to be drawn main components: floor, ceiling, walls, perfectly to scale, but the more accurate and furniture. Focus on creating a sense your sketch the better. Use a measuring of space. Gardening is an adventure tape to get approximate measurements. where you are free to plot your own Begin with hardscape structures, such course as you transform the space that as your house, walkways, and fences. surrounds your home.

Don’t forget to plot out the locations of Dig it. Happy gardening! garden gnomes, birdbaths, and other

Diablo Gazette • JANUARY 2017 • Page 4 • www.DiabloGazette.com | www.fb.com/DiabloGazette •(925)-298-9990

3 Things Parents Can Do to Start the New Year Off Right!

parentfootprints

by Dr. Dan Peters

www.DrDanPeters.com

who strive for happiness often are “takers”, while those who strive for “meaning” are “givers.” Focus on giving in your community. Start a tradition where you volunteer as a family. Donate some of your holiday gifts to others. Have your kids pick clothes and items of theirs they wish to give to others. Set a tone of giving rather than taking.

Love where you live – Take care of your local environment. Pick up trash when nobody is looking. Recycle and reuse. Buy used instead of new. Keep what you have longer. Be grateful for where you live and talk with your kids about what you like about your home and community.

It seems that now more than ever we need to model to our children how to be positive and responsible citizens. Show your kids what being compassionate and caring looks like. Show your kids how to cope with adversity and creatively problem-solve. Show your kids how to be grateful for what you have and how to cultivate and invest in your family, community, and our planet.

There are few things we can count on.

Time is one of those things – it keeps going and it is a relative concept. Some people can’t believe how fast the year has flown by and others thought the year would never end. Whether you are looking forward to the New Year, or not, it is here. I have found that “New Year’s resolutions” are a good concept to think about new goals, yet often find for myself and most folks I know, they are short lived and bring on negativity and selfcriticism when the goal is not achieved.

Rather than “resolutions” I like the idea of putting out “intentions” as a way of promoting personal and family values that we can integrate into our daily lives.

Here are a few suggestions for starting the New Year off right by making intentions to set the tone for yourself and your family: Focus on the positive – We really have little control over most things in life, though we like to think we do. We can choose the way we think and act.

Cultivate a “half glass full” mindset in the New Year. Look for what is “right”.

Be open to possibilities. Have gratitude for what you do have. By thinking about what is going right, what you are grateful for, having a positive attitude, and being excited about possibilities, you are promoting and modeling positive energy in your home, work, community, and to your children.

Schedule time to give back – Recent studies have shown that those

Dr. Dan Peters is a Walnut Creek based psychologist, author (www.drdanpeters.com), Co-Founder/Executive Director of California’s Summit Center (www.summitcenter.us), Co-founder/Lead expert of education site Parent Footprint (www.parentfootprint.com), a podcast host, and a regular contributor to The Huffington Post, Thrive Global, and Psychology Today. His office is located 700 Ygnaico Valley Rd. Stel 320 Walnut Creek.

925-939-7500.

bookends moviemavericks

by Jason Rugaard www.moviemavericks.com

by Jill Hedgecock,

Program Coordinator Mount Diablo California Writer’s Club jillhedgecock.com

H is for Hawk

by Helen MacDonald

Nocturnal Animals CCCC “Nocturnal Animals is the feel bad film of the 2016 holiday cinema season. I don’t think the advertising campaign will include that quote in their marketing materials, but it’s an honest assessment. This is a very downbeat experience with zero humor. It’s also brilliantly realized, full of tension and awash in nihilistic themes. Fashion designer Tom Ford steps behind the

camera, writing and directing from the 1993 novel by author Austin Wright.

The movie plays like a David Lynch picture from the 1980’s merged with a West Texas crime thriller. Ford manages to navigate the tricky narrative strands of the source material, a feat that would trip up more established filmmakers, having made one of the year’s best films in the process.

Manchester by the Sea CC “Manchester by the Sea” takes 137 minutes to tell an achingly simple story.

Actors take long pauses on-screen to imply depth, but it just tests the viewers patience. Kenneth Longoan’s screenplay is structured in such a rambling style

that the story becomes maudlin and overly self-important. Despite some interesting moments and an intriguing lead character, this film languishes and then dies before our eyes.

H is for Hawk by Helen MacDonald (2016, Grove Press, paperback, 320 pages, $9.54) weaves the author’s griefstricken journey as she grapples with the death of her father while training a goshawk. In the book, Helen says, “…walking the forest you come across all sorts of things you don’t expect.”

But it can easily be said that while reading this book you will similarly encounter the unexpected. Along Helen’s emotional journey, she learns from the mistakes of T.H. White, who also engaged in falconry, but who is best known as the author of the King Arthur series, most notably The Sword in the Stone. H is for Hawk is partially a literary biography of White whose story is told on a parallel track with Helen’s self discovery.

Woven throughout the narrative are fascinating details about the sport of falconry. Readers will seamlessly discover what mutes, creances, swivels and jesses are as they learn the dedication needed to train a wild bird of prey. The details of hawk, and specifically goshawk behavior, are fascinating. For instance, instead of attaching bells to hawks’ legs on tiny leather straps called bewits, a tailmounted bell is much better for a goshawk, which has a habit of shaking its tail. But even more interesting is the bond that develops between, Mabel, our narrator’s goshawk, and her human handler. Throughout the book, Mabel’s savage, yet somehow endearing, personality shines through the pages.

The writing is brutally honest, poetic,

gut-wrenching, historical, and informative all at the same time.

Helen’s descriptions of frustration at not being able to flush prey to give Mabel an opportunity to “do what she was born to do” are intense. The brutality of a hawk kill is described both vividly and with a kind of stark forgiveness. Mabel’s antics during the hunting flights often put Helen in impossible situations. Yet, the book somehow drifts in nostalgia as our narrator reveals her father’s obsession with warplanes that dotted the skies of his youth. This is a book like no other.

I highly recommend it not only to bird and nature lovers, but also for those that have experienced the grief of losing a loved one.

H is for Hawk landed on more than 25 Best Books of the Year lists, including TIME (#1 Nonfiction Book), NPR, O, The Oprah Magazine (10 Favorite Books), Vogue (Top 10), Vanity Fair, Washington Post, Boston Globe, Seattle Times, San Francisco Chronicle (Top 10), Kirkus Reviews and Amazon (Top 20). Given the poetical style of H is for Hawk, it is not surprising that MacDonald’s first book, Shaler’s Fish, is a collection of poems. She has plans to tackle the subject of how humans perceive the natural world as separate from themselves in her next book.

Helen Macdonald is an English writer, naturalist, and an Affiliated Research Scholar at the University of Cambridge.

She lives in Suffolk, UK.

Diablo Gazette • JANUARY 2017• Page 5 • www.DiabloGazette.com | www.fb.com/DiabloGazette • (925)-298-9990

Rubydooby-Do, The Making of a Concord Celebrity

by David King

Meet Ruby, a Doberman, smart and mellow, just like her Grand Champion parents. Two years ago, when Concord’s Alaina Lindsey, then 13, started posting pictures of her new 8-week old purebred puppy on her Instagram account, her friends would “like” it. She boasted to her dad, Charles, “I bet I can get more Ruby followers than you.”

Charles accepted the challenge even though he didn’t really use Instagram… but he is a gifted photographer as partner of CSK Photography.

“I would see these accounts with 3,000 followers, and think ‘who would follow dogs?’” Charles said. When mom, This image was bootlegged on t-shirts for sale on Amazon Margaret Lindsey, learned of the bet, she that you gotta put in your post, such as teased them both that she would never #doberman, so those people can see who consider her “insta-famous” until Ruby you are,” Charles stated. “There are some gets posted on Snoop Dogg’s page. big accounts that feature Dobermans Alaina and such as @DobermanPride Charles started and @DobieLove that have posting Ruby a hundred thousand or pictures on more followers each. Once their respective Ruby was getting featured Instagram on those accounts, Ruby’s accounts, follower count would jump.

Alaina on @ “When we started, RubyLindsey, I thought, wow, Ruby and Charles has 100 followers. Then under his someone would feature photography her and it would suddenly company’s @ bump to 250 followers, Lindseycrew then 1000.” account.

Charles would post a It was slow new photo of Ruby about at first. Charles Ruby going over photos and posts with Charles once per day. “I was realized that training her, so I would since they were really following Ruby and take shots of her during training which not him, he changed the account name to got her use to the camera,” Charles said. @Rubydooby_Do and began to work the “Once I started posting those photos, magic of social media.

I started getting featured on the big “There are a lot of hashtag things Doberman Instagram accounts.”

By the end of the first year, Ruby had well over 5,000 followers. Ruby had become very comfortable round the camera - almost Diva comfortable.

“One morning, I was taking a photo of Ruby sitting in the doorway and told her ‘don’t move’,” Charles explained.

“Ruby, struck this pose. She throws her neck back giving her this huge neck, and then squinted her eyes, and she looks like this huge beast.

She held that pose until she sees me take the camera away from my face.” That was the money shot.

Within a week, it went viral.

“Everyone was copying it and placing it everywhere, in memes, on Amazon.com, or on their own facebook page. It picked up 30,000 “likes” on Instagram and another 10,000 followers. “ Ruby’s photo then showed up on even larger Instagram sites that featured wild animals, lions, etc., that have millions of followers, picking up another 1000 or so followers with each appearance.

Ruby had developed true fans. One lady had used Ruby’s photo on her Doberman Facebook page and claimed that Ruby was her dog. Another had Ruby tattooed on her thigh. Several artists would draw her and send to the Lindseys. One sent the family a watercolor of Ruby.

Marketers also took notice. Crazy Rebel made Ruby an exclusive model for their hand-crafted collars. Chewy. com has made similar product-for-image offers.

“A follower messaged me that he saw Ruby on Amazon.com with someone

Ruby as seen on Snoop Dogg’s Instagram page

selling Ruby images on T-shirts. That was irritating because that’s illegal. It is clear commercial copyright infringement,” Charles warned.

Ruby has been seen on Los Angeles rap producer, DJ Kaled’s account. But on November 13, Margaret’s prophetic goal was realized. Snoop Dogg had posted Ruby’s picture on his account!

“That took it from 20,000 to almost 30,000 followers instantly.” Charlie said.

“That makes her the third most followed Doberman in the country.”

Today Ruby has more than 37,000 followers, a bonafide celebrity had been made.

“I’m still waiting for the day when someone actually recognizes her on the street. She has distinctive markings. She has a cowlick on her nose. She’s very distinct.”

It’s a great lesson in social marketing.

By the way, Charles won the bet, as Alaina closed her Ruby account with around 30 followers. Bam! All photographs courtesy of CSK Photography

Diablo Gazette • JANUARY 2017 • Page 6 • www.DiabloGazette.com | www.fb.com/DiabloGazette •(925)-298-9990

Rustic and Elegant Wood Headboard

FrugElegance

by Carol and Randi

The Frugirls www.frugelegance.com

Rustic and elegance come together with this magnificent DIY headboard with a hanging side table. Carol’s daughter asked for a rustic headboard for her Christmas present. After a little shopping, Randy, her dad, knew it would be easy enough to make, saving us a lot of money, and would be a very special gift… and boy, was it beautiful!

be visible.

Eye Screws were spray painted black and attached to each corner. Eye screws have little loops so the rope can tie through it. Secure a hook in the ceiling. Use the kind with a circle end to tie the rope and hang the table to the desired height.

Directions for Headboard: 1. Measure the size of the bed. In our case, it is a double size headboard. 2. Line up a few upcycle fence boards for the height.

It was determined five boards would be needed. 3. Cut 1/2” x 2” wood to create a frame for support. Cut the boards to fit the width of the headboard. Screw together into the frame. 4. Brush a clear satin sealer/stain over the entire headboard. We used Minwax.

Simple, elegant and filled with warmth and love. The bedroom now looks rustic and beautiful. We added some decorative pillows, a fur throw,

Directions for End Table: The same steps were used to create the hanging side table except on a much smaller scale. The frame at the bottom of the shelf top was stained because it would

and a plant. We also added string lights hanging across the headboard for special effects. It all came together without spending a lot either. That’s our kind of FrugElegance!

Come to FrugElegance.com to see the original blog post plus many other FrugElegant home projects!

Diablo Gazette • JANUARY 2017• Page 7 • www.DiabloGazette.com | www.fb.com/DiabloGazette • (925)-298-9990

New State Laws for 2017 legalbriefs

effect this year. The minimum wage increases to $10.50 per hour for employers with over 25

by Douglas A. Prutton, Attorney Email: Doug@PruttonLaw.com employees. For smaller employers, the minimum wage remains at Your final gifts for the holiday season, $10.00 per hour. The minimum wage wrapped with care by Governor Jerry will increase every following year until Brown and the state legislature – Yipee! it reaches $15.00 per hour in 2022 for Two events in 2016 prompted the larger employers (and $14.00 per hour passing of several laws. The light for smaller employers). Several cities sentence imposed on Brock Turner for have their own minimum wage laws. his sexual assault of another student at For example, Berkeley’s minimum wage Stanford motivated the legislature to increases to $12.53 per hour (and to pass tougher sentencing laws for sexual $13.75 per hour on October 1, 2017). assault including no probation. The San The minimum wage required by our Bernardino massacre was the impetus enlightened federal law is only $7.25 per for stricter gun control laws including the hour. first law to require background checks for Employers are now forbidden from ammunition purchases, a ban on sales of requesting from employees more or semi-automatic rifles with bullet buttons different immigration-related documents (which ease the removal of magazines), than are required by federal law, and and a ban on the sale of magazines with must honor such documents that on their more than 10 rounds. face reasonably appear to be genuine.

On a lighter note, beauty salons and The equal pay laws which require equal barbershops may now legally offer a pay for women and men for similar work complimentary beer or glass of wine have now been expanded to forbid pay to customers and denim becomes differentials based on race or ethnicity.

California’s state fabric!

Employers may no longer include in Orca breeding and performance employment agreements clauses that programs (like Sea World) are now require California employees to sue banned. Single toilet bathrooms in the employer in another state (venue public places must be gender neutral. provision) or that provide for the Terminally ill patients may now use application of another state’s employment certain experimental drugs. The laws (choice-of-law provision). These “Redskins” name and mascot may no clauses are very common and have made longer be used in public schools. Persons it difficult for California employees may break into a vehicle to rescue a who work for national or international trapped animal which is suffering harm companies to assert that right under or in immediate danger so long as California law. Employers are also now authorities are first contacted and the person remains with the vehicle until first forbidden from inquiring about arrests, convictions, etc. that involved the juvenile responders arrive. court. Enjoy your new presents!

Several new employment laws take

Cold Weather Clothing Needed from the principal’s desk

by Dr. Patrick Gaffney, CVCHS

Clayton Valley Music Students Prepare for Upcoming Performances The Holiday Season was an exciting period for music education and entertainment here at Clayton Valley Charter High School. Throughout December and leading into the New Year, our students performed at a variety of venues featuring music from every genre and era – classical wind band repertoire, contemporary jazz and string arrangements.

If you’ve never attended one of our musical performances, I encourage you to come and check us out in the upcoming months. Our student musicians are among some of the best and guaranteed to entertain audiences of all ages.

Our Jazz Band will be competing in the Northgate High School CMEA Jazz Festival on January 20 and the Campana Jazz Festival hosted by Amador Valley High School on February 11. CVCHS will also be hosting our joint middle school and elementary school feeder concerts on March 15 and 22. It’s such a treat to watch our students interacting with younger grades and enjoy the individual bands and string orchestras perform together.

We’re fortunate to boast about our talented students because of the commitment and inspiration from our Music Department staff. Under the leadership of Lydia Lim, CVCHS emphasizes the importance of a music education to our student’s overall learning experience. It provides

development and growth of the student’s mind, body and spirit.

Participation in our music program allows students to flourish in their creative expression of a language (music) that is communicated by diverse

There is a wonderful volunteer opportunity to help a non-profit with its Cold Weather Clothing Program so that homeless people in our county don’t suffer from the winter cold. White Pony Express (WPE), a nonprofit based in Pleasant Hill, has launched its 2016-17 Cold Weather Clothing Program for the cold winter months. The program has already distributed 4,000 items of new or like-new clothing—coats, pants, shirts, socks, hats, gloves, scarves, underwear, and boots—given for free to people without shelter.

Your help is needed to continue this vital program throughout the winter,

with many types of supervised and enjoyable volunteer activities available.

The Cold Weather Clothing Program originated last winter when two homeless men, John Dulik and Todd Cambra, died from exposure in Walnut Creek. It was that sad situation that spurred the White Pony Express founder, Dr. Carol Weyland Conner, to ask that warm clothing be obtained and provided to the homeless to enable them to endure cold winter nights. So now it is a WPE winter tradition. For more details, please see WPE’s flyer at http://www.whiteponyexpress. org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/

Rotary Clubs of Contra Costa Present White Pony Express With Refrigerated Ford Transit Van

cultures throughout the world.

Decades of research demonstrates that a music curriculum is closely linked to delivering a world-class education with great importance placed on academic achievement, social development, civic engagement, and equitable opportunities. That’s why we place so much emphasis on getting our students excited about music and performing arts.

I look forward to seeing new faces at our next music performance. Be sure to visit our school website at www.claytonvalley.org for upcoming community events featuring our talented student musicians.

The Rotary Clubs of Contra Costa presented the gift of a refrigerated Ford Transit 250 to Gary Conner, Executive Coordinator of White Pony Express (WPE), to help WPE with its vibrant Food Rescue Program.

After Mr. Conner gave a speech to the Rotary Club in 2014, the Rotary Clubs dedicated itself in raising $50,000 over the course

Edi continued from page 2 not have to rely on selfies.

13. Re-open local police sub stations and continue the downward trend in crime while increasing the support for the PD in the community.

14. Have a “naming out” party for the Blog-o-sphere’s Mayor of Claycord.

15. Build one new soccer field so kids can get a kick out of and into the parks.

of two years to buy this van.

Every day WPE sends volunteers to supermarkets, restaurants, and farmers markets where they fresh, nutritious excess food including high-quality meat, dairy, eggs, produce, deli, and baked goods that would otherwise have been discarded and deliver it generally within two hours of the donation. Its Food Rescue Program now picks up and delivers over 5,000 pounds of free food a day, seven days a week!

More volunteers are needed to help WPE eliminate hunger and poverty in Contra Costa County. www. whiteponyexpress.org 925-322-0604.

16. Find a home for the Peregrine Falcon (name it Perry?) downtown.

17. Teach kids cursive and make them write to grandma.

18. Have a session of Robot Wars.

19. Support the biggest Pickleball Tournament in the Bay Area... first prizea year supply of Clausen Pickles.

20. Get Edi Birsan to pronounce idea as something other than “Eye-Deer”.

Diablo Gazette • JANUARY 2017 • Page 8 • www.DiabloGazette.com | www.fb.com/DiabloGazette •(925)-298-9990

Clayton Author Recalls Escape from Edi Amin’s Genocide Clayton resident Urmila Patel came to the US in a flee for her and her family’s life escaping the genocide of Dictator Edi Amin. She wrote of the harrowing experience in a fascinating book called, “Out of Uganda in 90 Days”.

This is a true story of a world turned upside down, a family torn apart, and the desperate road to freedom from the vicious Dictator Idi Amin”. Patel’s startling memoir of survival, and escape from Idi Amin’s Uganda, is an amazing journey through cultures, beliefs, and life-and-death passions.

Patel is now owner of Clayton’s Postal Annex in Clayton. In addition, Patel is a Reiki master and has been practicing and teaching the knowledge of healing through various techniques. She recently presented her life saving ordeal to the Clayton Valley Women’s Club. Her book is available for purchase on Amazon.com and at the Postal Annex in the Clayton Station shopping center.

farmerfresh

by Debra Morris,Pacific Coast Farmers Market http://www.pcfma.org/concord

Diablo’s Picker Squadron Picks Reaches 25 Tons for Food Bank We are glad to report that with this year’s total of 3415 lbs, of fruit picked, the Rotary Club of Concord Diablo’s Picker Squadron has passed 25 Tons for the food bank and pantries in Concord since the program started in 2009. Rotarians and their families and guests are invited to help with the mission of the Picker Squad.

The Rotary Club of Concord-Diablo obtains property owner permissions to pick, or glean, excess fruit and then

Pucker Up for Pomegranates

deposits the harvest with local food bank distribution organizations. You do not need to be a member of the Concord-Diablo Rotary Club. Each gleaning event lasts only one hour. Think of it as a “flash mob” that picks fruit!

Contact Casilda Gonzales 925 338-5775 or Edi Birsan 925 798-3537 to get your fruit picked or to volunteer. www.CDRotary.org

The pomegranate is a true super fruit that is definitely worth the trouble of cracking open and eating seed by seed.

Pomegranates contain vast amounts of cancer-fighting antioxidants and other nutritious compounds. This succulent fruit was brought to California by the Spanish missionaries centuries ago and are now widely cultivated throughout the state. The largest concentration of pomegranate farming takes place in the San Joaquin Valley. Pomegranates have a leathery exterior that’s a textured reddish pink, but inside you’ll find bright red shiny pearls of juice that are so perfect for fall and winter. Their tart but sweet juice is as amazing as its bright red color. You can find whole pomegranates as well as pomegranate juice at our markets until February! Find J&J Ramos Farms from Hughson at the market for some great big poms!

Juice can be purchased at the markets or you can take them home and juice them yourself. The seeds are edible and delicious when eaten right from the pomegranate. Here are some other ideas for their use: 1. Toss a handful of pomegranate seeds on a salad of avocado, greens, and cooked shrimp, with a mild vinaigrette.

2. Add seeds as a topping to your sherbet or sorbet for texture and simply

flavored dessert.

3. Mix seeds with plain yogurt and granola for a healthy morning breakfast or snack.

4. Toast a baguette slice, top with plain cream cheese or goat cheese and sprinkle with pomegranate seeds.

5. Make juice! Crack open the pomegranate and remove seeds. Place seeds in a heavy plastic freezer bag and seal. Take a rolling pin and gently roll over seeds, releasing the juice. Strain and chill. Use within a few days.

Visit pcfma.org to find your nearest farmers’ market.

aRt Cottage

by FROgard

aRt Cottage “Anything Goes” Many new artists being featured at the aRt Cottage to start the new year. These artists are having our first showing at the gallery through the January exhibit called “Anything Goes”.

Miranda Anderson - DVC studentfused glass landscapes; Tim Dallas – photograph; Michalen Garaventa – jewelry; Catherine Hanson - mixed media; Nancy Freeman - acrylic paintings; Sharon Petersen - watercolor roses; Judith Kunzle - watercolor still life and dancers; Raquel Amaral - acrylic painting; Jan Way - ceramic artist has a tic tac toe set with inlaid copper and more.

We sincerely welcome them, and are certain you will enjoy their work.

Sometimes, you can observe students, like Kyle Smith (pictured above), working on their projects while you enjoy the aRt Cottage gallery.

Works in progress by students can also

be viewed hanging on the walls or standing on easels for critiquing, drying, or just storage for the next session.

2017 will be another busy year at aRt Cottage. As we expand into the backyard next door, you will notice the “growth” of a sculptural garden with paths leading to different interest areas. The garden next door becomes a new “canvas” each year that I enjoy sharing with Concord and friends. It is a wonderful relaxing place where one can enjoy the birds, flowers, and a country setting. The mural on the barn was done by local artists and some very young students who provided me with cows, horses, dogs, a rooster, chicks and even Farmer FRO. “Refreshment in the Garden” is a 2-feet ceramic Pepsi bottle by Jim Jordan. (pepsi photo) aRt Cottage will be enjoying its 6th year! We hope you will feel a curiosity to come in and visit us, linger a while, and enjoy the free exhibits before the month ends. aRt Cottage is at 2238 Mt. Diablo St. just two blocks north of the Todos Santos Square. www.artcottage.info

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Nutcracker Sweet Performed for Diamond Terrace Diamond Terrace Retirement Community in Clayton hosted a Nutcracker of a Holiday Event for their residents and families. The whole community got involved, with Fancy Footmen on loan from the Clayton Safeway and local ballerinas to entertain everyone.

The students from Clayton Valley Dance Academy performed their rendition of “The Nutcracker Suite”, or as they call it, “Nutcracker Sweet”, much to the residents’ delight! There were kids of all ages that graced everyone with their stellar moves and stunning costumes, and, of course, pirouettes, a plenty!

Elizabeth Sanches, Activity & Advertising Director, Ellen Diamond, Administrator, and Gwin LewisPhillips, Assistant Administrator & Tax Credit Specialist were in the Nutcracker spirit.

Diablo Gazette • JANUARY 2017 • Page 10 • www.DiabloGazette.com | www.fb.com/DiabloGazette •(925)-298-9990

Secret Service Insider Stories from a Former Agent [Editors Note: Most of our understanding of Secret Service work comes from Hollywood.

Few of us have ever met a Secret Service Agent, or maybe you have and don’t know it. “Inside the Secret Service-A Former Agent’s Stories” is about life as a Secret Service agent. Our contributor is still a Federal Agent but with a different agency, therefore we have chosen not to reveal his name. These are the real life experiences from a Concord resident who spent several years as a Secret Service agent. This is his story….]

Sometimes, you don’t know who you’ve met, even after you’ve met them.

In early August 2000, I was detailed to The First Family in Martha’s Vineyard where the Clinton’s were vacationing.

Most of the week included leisurely activities. However, one scheduled event of importance was a fundraiser for Hillary Clinton’s senate campaign hosted at the home of Harvey Weinstein, producer and co-founder of Miramax Films. The $15,000 per couple catered dinner would be attended by ‘A- list’ celebrities and entertainers. The setting was on the back lawn of Weinstein’s estate which was nestled in a forested area and backed up to his own small private beach.

After bomb sweeps were completed, agents were given their posts. I was assigned to Weinstein’s private beach located directly beyond the back lawn where the event was to take place.

There was an abrupt 3 to 4 feet dropoff from the back lawn to the beach.

My assignment was to maintain the integrity of the beach area, ensuring that no unauthorized persons entered the event from the water or beach. A no-fly zone (routine wherever the president is located), a marine craft, and water activity restriction were also in effect.

A Coast Guard vessel was positioned about 150 yards off shore, and local law enforcement vessels were also present on the water to help enforce this restriction.

The First Family was scheduled to arrive at 5:30 P.M. and depart at 9:30 P.M. We were notified via the Command Post that the First Family was running late and that their actual arrival time was now unknown. Guests mingled in the backyard after having gone through security checks, apparently not bothered by the delay.

One of the guests, a male wearing a gray sports coat and jeans, walked to the edge of the lawn, and stood at the top of the stairs overlooking the beach. I was about 70 feet from the stairs and noticed him looking at me at times. However, whenever we made eye contact, he would quickly look away. This went on for a couple of minutes. Finally, he said in a somewhat timid voice, “Excuse me, uh, is it okay to come down here?”

“Sure,” I said.

“Okay, thanks” and came down the steps to the beach. He acted a little fidgety and nervous. He would walk around a bit, look down, move sand around with his

Close Encounters of the Celebrity Kind

when a very attractive young woman feet, then look over at me. When I made walked from the party over to the beach eye contact, he would immediately look steps. She looked over at us, and like down again and pick up a shell or two John before her, seemed unsure if she (the small beach was loaded with scallop was allowed on the beach. John asked shells. I had a few in my pocket that I me if it would be okay if she came down. was bringing home to my 2-year old son).

I told him the beach was open to the Then he would stand back up, mosey around some more, slide more sand around, look at me, then immediately look down and pick up more shells. Slowly, he made his way a little closer to where I was standing. Who is this guy? I had the feeling he wanted to talk to me or ask a question, but maybe was uncertain if it was okay. Sure enough, when he was maybe 20 feet from me he asked, in an almost apologetic manner, “Excuse me, I don’t mean to bother you, but can I ask you a question?”

It was kind of funny but I could appreciate his uncertainty. I smiled, “Sure. I’m just standing here making sure a dolphin doesn’t jump out of the water and attack somebody. What’s up?”

I guess he figured I didn’t bite so he walked over and started talking Photo credit: WKT Public Relations/WikiMedia rather excitedly. “Man John Cusak, official portrait this is cool. I see your guys all over the place, guests. even out in the trees. I’ll bet you have She came down and walked guys in the water, huh?” over to us wearing a simple, yet classy I pointed to the Coast Guard vessel dress. She did not appear to be wearing and told him we had agents onboard. He makeup, except maybe very soft lipstick. replied, “Cool. I’ll bet you have sensors in I was struck at how naturally pretty the water that detect motion.” and wholesome she looked. I thought I didn’t reply to that one. He then I recognized her, but when John extended his right hand and said, “Hey, introduced her to me as “Annette” I I’m John.” realized I didn’t know who she was either.

“Nice to meet you, John.” I She too was very friendly, unpretentious. introduced myself and shook his hand.

The three of us continued to visit for John told me he was tired because he a few more minutes before saying our had just flown in from Chicago where he goodbyes. John and Annette then walked had been filming nightly from 6:00 P.M. away to rejoin the party. Me, I remained to 6:00 A.M. He said Harvey Weinstein at my post on the beach. called him and invited him to the event Finally, at 7:00 P.M., the saying he would have a good time. For presidential motorcade arrived. None of the life of me I couldn’t figure out who the party goers seemed the least bit upset this guy was. He had to be a “somebody” that the President and First Lady were an in the entertainment business to have been personally invited by Weinstein. He hour-and-a-half late to their own $15,000 per couple party/fundraiser. From a said he was from Chicago, but currently security standpoint, the event went off lived in Los Angeles. His wide-eyed curiosity and timid demeanor threw me. I without a hitch. The President and First lady both spoke and thanked everyone for figured he must work behind the camera. their support. Carly Simon and Jimmy John asked me several questions about Buffet sang. At one point, The President my job and how I liked it. I told him I accompanied Buffet on the saxophone. loved the job but that it was tough being The Clintons didn’t leave the party away from my 2-year old son. until almost 1:00 A.M. As I was leaving, We visited for about 5 minutes,

Zombie Trademark War Ends

For those following the “Cheese Zombies” trademark battle, Patty’s Original Cheese Zombies prevailed.

The United States Trademark Office has ruled that the phrase “Cheese Zombies” may not be used exclusively by any company as a trademark. Anyone making those delicious cheese zombies is free to call them what they are - cheese zombies.

Over fifty years ago, Mount Diablo Unified School

District cafeteria workers created a soft baked brunch treat utilizing bread dough and government commodity cheese. It was affectionately called a Cheese Zombie.

Why it was called a Cheese Zombie is debatable but the name stuck. The creation of the Cheese Zombie is credited to Helen Ballock and Decla Phillips in the 1960’s.

Eric Giacobazzi, a year 2000 graduate of Northgate High School, had obtained a trademark on the phrase “Cheese Zombies” in 2009. In 2013 Patty May (Bakers Trainer for MDUSD) and her son Robert opened “Patty’s Original Cheese Zombies” at Dana Plaza in Concord California. Shortly after opening their business they were notified by Giacobazzi that he owned the name.

Patty and Rob retained Pete Tormey, an attorney who specializes in patents and trademarks to fight the mark in the Trademark Office.

Martha Riley, a former principle at Northgate high School, testified on behalf of Patty’s describing a cheese zombie as a “wonderful puff of pastry around this nice

I saw John talking to other guests. I hit him on the back as I walked past and said, “Hey John, nice talking with you.

Take care.”

He turned, called me by name, and said, “Nice talking with you. Thanks. Be safe, man.” Nice guy, whoever he is, I thought.

On the drive back to our hotel, the other agents and I debriefed, discussing the night’s event. Other than the late arrival and very late departure, things went smoothly. I mentioned that only two party goers, some guy named John and an attractive girl named Annette, ever came down to my area on the beach.

One of the agents asked me if the guy was wearing a gray sports coat. I said he was.

The agent then said, “Dude, that was John Cusack and Neve Campbell!”

“No way.” Then it dawned on me that although I had heard of John Cusack, up until that time, I hadn’t seen him in a movie and didn’t know what he looked like (after this it seemed as if I saw him all the time in magazines and movie trailers, including the one for the movie he was filming in Chicago, called “High Fidelity”). I told the guys I recognized the girl as Neve Campbell, but when Cusack introduced her to me it sounded like he said her name was Annette. Then I realized that he must have said, “This is, uh, Neve.” (which, with an earpiece in one ear, sound to me like Annette.).

By the time we got back to our hotel, showered, prepped our gear, and got to bed, most of us were lucky if we got three hours of sleep before having to get up, dress, grab a Power Bar and/or some fruit, and catch a private boat at 6:00 A.M. en route to Nantucket for further Clinton assignments. That’s the way the entire week long detail went; late arrivals, late departures, little sleep.

The following week, I was in Los Angeles working an intelligence assignment at the 2000 Democratic National Convention. During some down time, a couple agents and I, along with our LAPD counterparts, went into Japantown for a quick dinner. Across the street from our restaurant, Pamela Anderson was filming a scene for her film Barb Wire. One of the officers told Anderson’s security who we were.

Anderson stopped filming and came over and took some pictures with us. Okay, I didn’t recognize Cusack and wasn’t 100% sure about Neve Campbell. But believe me, I had no absolutely no doubt about Pamela Anderson. But, that’s another story.

If you have questions you would like to ask the agent, please send them to info@ diablogazette.com. Select questions will be answered in a Q and A format in future issues.

gooey little narrow thing of cheese.” In addition to her testimony, attorney Tormey, showed the Trademark Office dozens of newspaper articles, recipes, school menus, even Helen Ballock’s obituary, as evidence that the phrase “cheese zombies” has been well-known for many years.

The Trademark Office ruled that the term “cheese zombies” is merely descriptive said Tormey. The term conveys an idea of characteristics of the goods. That is, that they are a type of baked bread product filled with cheese and the phrase cheese zombies merely describes them. “A term that is merely descriptive can’t function as a trademark” explains Tormey, “because trademarks are used to identify a unique source of a product or service.”

Tormey coaches clients to be creative when picking a trademark because a good trademark is critical to building a successful brand, while a wrong trademark can have you stumbling in litigation like a Zombie for years.

Diablo Gazette • JANUARY 2017• Page 11 • www.DiabloGazette.com | www.fb.com/DiabloGazette • (925)-298-9990

journey-man’s journal

by John Cooper

Why You’re Not Moving to Canada

Tip-of-the Hat to Clayton’s Robert Chislett of Chisel-It Ice 2016 was a grand year for Chisel-It Ice. He was called upon to sculpt ice structures for the trifecta of championship events; SuperBowl 50, the NBA Finals, and the NHL Stanley Cup Championship, as well as for each team represented, and for many attending corporations’ parties.

Chislett has graced our pages before (December 2015). He represents our area well - a champion among champions.

You can see more of his sculptures on diablogazette.com.

There has been a lot of chatter following the recent Presidential election, and I’ve heard some celebrities stating that they plan to move to Canada once Donald Trump assumes the office of the presidency. Included on the list are Cher, Barbra Streisand, Whoopi Goldberg, Rosie O’Donnell and Lindsay Lohan, to name just a few. However, if their experience is anything like mine recently was (see Diablo Gazette, December 2016), they may be better off staying at home, as crossing the border to Canada is no cake walk.

A few months ago, as summer was about to end, I traveled to Canada on my motorcycle. As I made my way toward the Canadian border, I made a mental note of all the things I needed for a quick and smooth border crossing: passport, driver’s license, vehicle registration and insurance. I’ve crossed many borders over the years and expected this one to be nothing more than routine. Instead, it went something like this: Border Guard: “Welcome, where are you traveling to”?

Me: With a pleasant smile, I said “I’m not sure yet, I’m just trying to get out of town awhile”.

Border Guard: Firm in his voice, he said “You don’t know where you’re going”? “Where are you coming from”?

Me: Eager to please and not seeing what I was about to step in, I replied, “I’m coming from California, but just spent a week in Mexico” (see Diablo Gazette, October 2016).

Border Guard: With a snarky voice, “So you’re coming from Mexico, but you live in California”. He continued, “I see that your motorcycle is registered in Oregon, but your driver’s license is from California”. To drive home the point further, he continued, “And you don’t know where you’re going”.

Border Guard: With a dismissive air, as the decision was already made at this point, he said, “Are you carrying any alcohol, tobacco or weapons”?

Me: “Yes, I’m carrying all three”.

Border Guard: Pointing firmly to the back of the building, he said, “Pull over there, turn off your engine, and stay there”.

I pulled my bike around back, turned off the engine as instructed, and proceeded into the building, unaware that I had just entered a scene reminiscent of the movie “Groundhog Day”.

As I waited patiently in line, I casually gazed around and noticed the room was full of misfits and rebels and other nonconformists, much like me, and I got

the sense that the border agency was no place for games.

“Next”, an agent yelled from behind the counter. As I approached I saw he was wearing a bullet proof vest and a handgun was resting on his waist. Before I said a word, he asked for the keys to my bike, my wallet, cellphone, passport and driver’s license. It was then that I knew I wasn’t going anywhere anytime soon.

Then we played a game called “One Thousand Questions” or so it seemed. Although it was more akin to fifty questions repeated over and over and over again.

Questions like, “what’s your name”, “where are you traveling to”, “why were you in Mexico”, and “have you ever been denied entry into Canada before”. “Have you ever been convicted of a crime”, “have you ever stood before a judge for any reason”, and so on and so on, the questions continued.

My conversation with the border guard(s) went on for another hour as they calmly and systematically dismantled everything on my bike looking for contraband. I realized at that point that “honesty, is not the best policy” when it comes to crossing the Canadian border and answering all the questions with just a hint of vagueness didn’t help my cause. I would have been better served had I just made up a final destination and conveniently left out everything else. Perhaps my appearance played a role too as I looked a little rough around the edges, unshaven and unshowered for several days, riding a motorcycle, with quite likely a few bugs smashed about my body.

I must say, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police had little sense of humor that day. However, finding little more than a flask of Tequila and a small camping knife, I was set free and allowed entry into Canada. On my way out the door, I thanked them for allowing me to participate in their security program, an attempt at humor that fell on deaf ears.

By contrast, when I re-entered the U.S. a week later, I was only asked one question when I appeared at the border crossing. With a passing glance at my passport, the U.S. border agent asked, “Are you carrying a firearm”? “No sir I am not” I said, and that was that. No fuss, no muss, while he waived me forward and back home.

And so I say to all the celebrities who plan to move to Canada once Donald Trump takes up residency in the White House, “I don’t think so”. If their experiences will be anything like mine, they’re better off staying at home.

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DIABLO GAZETTE FUN ZONE

NTRY NO E

FEE

CONCORD NEW YEARS RESOLUTIONS BACK THEN

by Edi Birsan

Over the last 148 years there probably development of the inland portion of the have been many resolutions made by the Naval Weapon Station, shall be done to spirit guides of the City of Concord. Here accommodate 28,000 people, a regional is a possible park with two sample of some thirds of the Anything Nutty Around Here? of them and land being their track parks or open record: space.” Still 1868 – in the works, “There will be the plan is no earthquakes, in place, the fires, floods or developer other disasters has been and we will selected, the build Todos navy-the citySantos to developer are succeed where working on the Pacheco Town process that failed.” Failedis expected to While they have take 25 year all occurred in several we have phases to get survived all of accomplished. those which continued in various degrees but never crushing us as happened to Pacheco in 1868.

1869 –“The name of the town is Todos Santos and will not be called Concord.” Failed- despite the determination of the Founders: Pacheco and Galindo, the people continued to call the place Concord.

Power to the People!

1905 –“PLEASE-please-PLEASE let the women get the town incorporated so that they can get their sidewalk tax and calm down and concentrate on home stuff.” Kept: the women, who did not have a vote yet, demanded that there be sidewalks and if the Town had to be incorporated to tax itself to get it, then the men folk were going to do just that or there would be a lot of sofa time in their future.

1941 – “Please let the oil sanctions and embargo on Japan bring them to sanity to stop the spread of war and we can go on as a rural town.”

Big fail- Japan felt pushed more to war resulting in Pearl Harbor and U.S. entry into World War II. Critical changes for Concord including the confiscation of the lands of the Naval Weapons Base and the start of a massive population growth.

1944 – “Resolve to handle ammunition and military supplies to help end the war.” Fail and Kept- On July 17, when Port Chicago ship loading blew up and knocked out all the windows in Concord. Sadly, Concord also suffered the largest loss of life in the War in 48 states. The base would continue and support the war effort.

1975 – “Let the good times roll and may The Concord Pavilion serve the city as a focus for music in the area for years to come.” Kept- and quite famously recently with a revival of shows and an investment by the operators: Live Nation.

2008 – “Resolve that the

?

Full Rules at www.AltPublish.com

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Do-It-Yourself Democracy Sponsored content

With three-of-four adults did not vote for the President-elect, Trump does not have a mandate.

Your voice must be heard if we are to have a government that is responsive to the majority of its citizens. Speaking up takes many forms: contacting elected representatives, marching, holding vigils, joining, and donating to organizations and causes, artistic expression, social media, traditional media, the possibilities are limitless.

Effective expression requires being accurately informed.

Corporate-dominated mainstream media (MSM) does not promote your interests and is not reliable.

Responsible alternative media sources have a key role to play. So, what can be done?

We have enough information to start. The new administration will act quickly in the first 100 days and beyond. Playing catch-up will not work. Find some time, find likeminded persons, understand what is going on and express your views.

Do not assume California legislators will properly represent you. Regularly communicate your views to them.

Realize California state government considers the incoming administration as holding values that are, “clearly inconsistent with the values of the people of California” and that it is, “not going to allow one election to reverse generations of progress.” Monitor state-level efforts

to protect this progress and support efforts agreeable to you.

In 2018, 33 U.S. Senate seats, all 435 U.S. House of Representatives seats and 36 Governorships will be up for election.

Clearly, the midterm elections in 2018 will be critical for all parties. It is not too early to consider how your efforts can affect the composition of Congress.

Congress makes laws affecting the nation.

It is appropriate to support election efforts outside your Congressional district or state.

In the Senate, a majority is required to approve Cabinet level appointments.

Legislation and Supreme Court appointments require a 60-vote majority when accounting for the possibility of filibuster (under current Senate rules).

Focusing your efforts to support or block legislation may be more effective in the U.S. Senate.

Follow your conscience. Supporting legislative efforts that reflect your views is more important than supporting a party. It is the flawed two-party system that produced two highly-disliked Presidential candidates. Breaking that grip is essential for admitting alternative viewpoints and for the long-term health

of democracy.

The Democratic Party must structurally change to be relevant. Since 2008, it has lost over 1,000 state house seats and several governorships. The Democrats have attempted to govern from the right but in doing so they have become faux-Republicans beholden to wealthy donors. Why choose a fauxRepublican when you can have the real thing? Democrats must return to their roots and represent my street not Wall Street. If they do not, Democrats are only useful for recapturing a branch of government to block Republican efforts, just as Republicans blocked Democrats the past 8 years. That is a stalemate that takes us nowhere as a nation. A thirdparty is needed to hold the two major parties accountable and to give voice to interests other than Wall Street.

Apathy has led us into difficult times.

100 million Americans who are either registered to vote (70 million) or eligible to vote but not registered (32 million) did not vote in the 2016 Election. Encourage your family and others to get involved or more involved. If they are not registered to vote let them know in California they can register online or through a one-page form submitted to the County Registrar of Voters.

It appears we have come to a time in our democracy where if you want a job done right you must do it yourself. Our children’s and grandchildren’s future and the health of the planet are too important to be left to politicians to decide. Express your voice. Resources for becoming actively involved can be found at: http:// www.ccprogressives.org

MDUSD Tech-Ed

Striving for the Future

by Nellie Meyer, Superintendent Chef Cindy Gershen’s hanging garden at Mt. Diablo High School’s International Hospitality and Tourism Academy classroom provides I read an article recently about some of the produce served at the school’s Serendipity restaurant. the “15 hot edtech trends for 2017” conferred with the award from a field and was excited to see that, per of 409 nominees. Honored academies some educators and tech leaders, will be recognized at the CDE’s in MDUSD is already leading the March at Ygnacio Valley High School in way. Our investments in technology Concord. support whole-class learning to The California Partnership Academies promote collaboration and subject (CPAs) were established to prepare matter relevance for our students. I’m high school students to succeed in proud of the innovation, creativity, both college and careers and compassion our around one of the 15 principals and teachers industry fields. Students bring to the classroom take classes including core to help support and academic subjects and at inspire every student, least one career-technical every day. These photos course related to the are just two examples. academy’s career theme.

Congratulations A team of teachers works to El Dorado Middle with the same group of School 8th grade Student newscasters present the latest at students over their high Resource Teacher Highlands Elementary as part of News school years. Employers Cynthia Burnhame for Studio world channel. Check out their at http://touchcast.com/he_ being honored by the newscast hawks/hawk_news_week_of_january_8th. provide internships and other opportunities for National Life Group as a LifeChanger of the Year. This program students to learn outside the classroom.

Career academies have become an recognizes and rewards K-12 teachers important part of the current Linked and staff who make a positive different Learning initiative in California. in the lives of students and their school Ygnacio Valley High School was also communities. Mrs. Burnham was notified recently that its Careers in recognized for her dedication, including Education Academy has been nominated her tutoring of students on her own time as a Distinguished Academy for next after school. Read her profile at https:// year. The role of parents and families lifechangeroftheyear.com/cynthiain the academic and social success of burnham/. students cannot be overestimated. It The Health Science Academy truly does take this partnership to help at Ygnacio Valley High School (YVHS) students aim high, and succeed. The has been named by the California author J.K. Rowling said, “Anything Department of Education (CDE) as a is possible, if you have enough nerve.”

Distinguished California Partnership Have a great 2017!

Academy. YVHS is one of seven to be

Diablo Gazette • JANUARY 2017 • Page 14 • www.DiabloGazette.com | www.fb.com/DiabloGazette •(925)-298-9990

Jazz It Up

If you like jazz music, then mark your calendar the 2017 Jazz Series coming to the newly established Jazz Room at Danville Village Theatre. The Kick-off Concert/Event is Friday, Jan 20th.

“The Town of Danville and The Jazz Room are very excited to introduce this concert series,” declares Eve Marie Shahoian, founder of the Jazz. Eve Marie is also vocalist, songwriter, and Artistic director, recipient of Billboards 2012 Award for Outstanding Original song “Waiting for You”. “It promises to be an amazing evening of music.”

The Jazz Room Concert/Kick Off Event will feature local and International Talent in addition to several talented students from our local High Schools led by talented Bay Area Music Educators. Here is the lineup for the evening.

Two-Time Grammy Award Winning Violinist Mads Tolling. Mads Tolling debuted a 3 Movement Jazz Violin Concerto “Begejestring”, which was premiered in 2015 with the Oakland Symphony at the Paramount Theatre in Oakland. His newest CD, “Mads Men Playing the 60’s” which makes its release at Yoshi’s in Oakland Jan 29th, but it will be available at the Kick-of concert.

Bay Area acclaimed pianist/ keyboardist Frank Martin has worked with Sting, Idina Menzel, Chris Botti, Lady Gaga, Elton John, Jennifer Hudson, James Taylor, Mary J Blige, Madonna and the list goes on. He is also he is an Adjunct Professor of Music at UC Berkeley, the California Jazz School and leads Jazz Clinics at Monte Vista High School. Martin will perform and lead students and headliners for the evening.

Exceptional guitarist and professor of music, Mike Williams will perform and lead his talented students.

Williams is also an adjunct professor at Saint Mary’s College, Professor at Los Medanos College, Music Director at Soundwall Music Camp, and serves as a clinician and adjudicator at Bay Area High Schools and College Jazz Festivals.

The 17-piece Kelly Park Big Band will open the show. Kelly Park, pianistdrummer-composer-arranger, released his acclaimed CD “STAGGERIN” in 2015 which featured his original Jazz compositions.

Founder/artistic director Diane Gilfether and The Blackhawk Chorus’s vocal ensemble, Special Blend, was Diablo Magazine’s 2016 pick for Best East Bay Chorus and are highly enjoyable.

The evening will conclude with recording artist, vocalist Eve Marie. Eve Marie has performed, on National TV, “The Tonight Show”, and at Symphony houses with Michael Morgan, the late Calvin Simmons, John Davidson, Maxim Shostakovich, Liberace, and others. She will release her new CD “BELIEVE” in 2017.

Local Schools and Music Educators performing include Ken Abrams Jazz Vocal Ensemble from SR Valley High, Jodi Reeds Chamber Singers from Monte Vista High and Stephen Herrick’s Advanced Jazz Combo Group from Athenian School. It is quite the collection of Jazz Musicians and community talent. Students perform beginning at 7:30 followed by the main stage show at 8 PM. Doors open at 7:15 with a No host bar.

It should be a very special evening.

Tickets are available now at www.villagetheatreshows.com. To learn about upcoming shows in 2017, including Jam Night, Cabaret Night, Open Mic, Student Workshops with internationally acclaimed pianists and singers, and headliners, visit The Jazz Room for show dates and updates at www.facebook.com/TheJazzRoom.

To Advertise in The Diablo Gazette Call (925)298-9990 Get Your Business EXPOSED!

Diablo Gazette • JANUARY 2017• Page 15 • www.DiabloGazette.com | www.fb.com/DiabloGazette • (925)-298-9990

The Diablo Gazette’s

January 2017

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

FUNDRAISERS

•Pancake Breakfast - Supporting Veterans of Foreign Wars – 2nd and 4th Sundays includes eggs, pancakes, sausage, beverage. 8 – 11 a.m. Willow Pass Road, Concord $5, $3 Children under 12. http:// www.vfwpost1525.org •Concord Senior Club - Sunday Family Breakfast Dec. 18, 9-10:45 a.m., 2727 Parkside Circle. Everyone is welcome.

Adults $4; Ages 3-11 $2; under 2 Free.

Pancakes or Biscuits & Gravy w/eggs, ham, fruit, pastry, coffee, juice and service w/ a smile!

OUTDOORS:

• Concord: Todos Santos Park OFF the Grid Mondays. Find the full lineup available at http://offthegridsf.com.

Club/Support Group News and Events

•Ham Radio Licensing Course Forming Now. Mt. Diablo Amateur Radio Club will be holding a 7-week course where you can learn everything you need to earn your Technician Class (entry level) FCC Amateur Radio License. Getting On The Air 2 week course follows The Technician Class license is your entry to the worldwide excitement of Amateur Radio and Emergency Communications… and now you do NOT need to learn Morse code!

Course begins on Thursday January 12, 2017 from 7-9pm. First Class starts at 6:30 The Salvation Army 3950 Clayton Road, (Cross is West St.) Concord. Registration is required. We use the ARRL Textbook and if you don’t have one it is about $27 to be paid cash week 1. Each student must have full access to a copy of the text. There is a $5,00 admin fee. Follow up training and License testing will also be available. To sign up email: HamRadioClass@gmail.com •Local Sons in Retirement (SIR) Branch #19 announces its 2016 Golf Champions.

Based in the Concord/Clayton/Martinez area. The series is an annual handicap flighted golf tournament with each player combining the two lowest net NCGA scores. The Championship event was played at Lone Tree Golf Course in Antioch; the Match Play program was played on a variety of East Bay courses throughout the year. This year’s winners were crowned at a special SIR luncheon at Guadalajara Grill in Concord . Sons in Retirement is an active men’s social group hosting a variety of sport activities and social events throughout the year. For more info go to: www. sir19.org. The 2016 SIR #19 golf winners are: Jerry Burton, Bill Hockenson, John Fernando, John Hayes, Jack Jagoda.

•January 14 & 28 - NEW COURSE! Cake Decorating Part 1 ($48) 10a-1pm Dianda Room - Concord Senior Center Register at www.concordreg.org Activities Course 102469 Call 925-671-3320 •January 19 - Property Tax Savings for Home owners 55 & Over. 10:30am. Room B - Concord Senior Center Register at www. concordreg.org Activities Course 103884 Call 925-671-3320 •January 19 - Generations On Line (FREE Computer course for Seniors) 9-10am Computer Lab Room Concord Senior Center Register at www. concordreg.org Activities Course 103090 Call 925-671-3320 •January 26 - Reverse Mortgages ($3) Concord Senior Center Dianda Room.

3-4pm. Register at http://www.concordreg. org Activities Course 102604 Call 925-6713320 •Jan 26 & 27 - Count the homeless.

Contra Costa’s Homeless Continuum of Care is looking for volunteers to help conduct a point-in-time count of families and individuals experiencing homelessness.

The count tallies information about people sleeping in emergency shelters and transitional housing as well as people sleeping in cars, in abandoned properties,

or in other unsuitable places. Volunteers are needed for morning and afternoon shifts on Thursday, Jan. 26 and Friday, Jan 27. Volunteers will be trained on how to administer a short survey and will be stationed at specific community sites with other volunteers to conduct the surveys with people who are homeless/at risk of homelessness. To volunteer, go to http:// cchealth.org/homeless/council/point-intime.php and click on “volunteer here” link.

We will be in touch once we receive your completed form. Please complete the form

by January 18th.

•January Friday Nights - Pranic Healing (Suggested Donations, but not required).

Just show up. 6:30-9:30. Concord Senior Center •February 14- Nate Tusa from John Muir National Historic Site in Martinez will be guest speaker at the Clayton Valley Woman’s Club’s monthly meeting. The club meets at 10:00 am the second Tuesday of each month at St. John’s Episcopal Church, 5555 Clayton Road, in Clayton.

New members are always welcome. All members and guests make new friends and join in the fun working together for the community. For more information call Linda at 925-482-0807 or Michele 925-672-6434. You can also visit www. claytonvalleywomansclub.org.

•March 4-One-Day Ham Radio Class: Interested in obtaining a Ham license? Techs wishing to upgrade?

Over 30 facilitators and accredited VE’s volunteeres to help. 7:30AM-5:00 PM Benicia Senior Center, 187 East “L” Street, Benicia $30. Includes all study material, venue, day-long refreshments, handouts, freebies and the federally required exam fee. Class size is limited, register promptly at www.BeniciaARC. com. Contact hamradioclass@ beniciaarc.com or Ham Class Registrar, Art Mayoff, (925) 212-9953 for more information.

FAMILY EVENTS

• Galindo Home and Gardens Tours - 1721 Amador Avenue, Concord. Visit the fully-restored 1856 Victorian home of Francisco Galindo, one of Concord’s founding fathers, and his wife, Maria Dolores Manuela (Pacheco) Galindo. This includes the 1875 addition by Francisco Galindo’s son, Juan “John” Galindo.

Concord Historical Society is opening the historic Galindo Home for special tours throughout January and February. No reservations needed. Fee $3 for adults and children over 12. One of only a few Victorian ranch houses in the country. By 1880, the structure was reconfigured in the Queen Anne style, with bay windows, sweeping steps, and a broad porch.

Visitors can tour the10 rooms, including two parlors and a formal dining room, and see15 original pieces of Eastlake furniture.

Go to concordhistorical.org for dates, times and more information.

Home & Garden/Farmers’ Markets

• Concord Tuesdays, 10am to 2pm, yearround, rain or shine, Todos Santos Plaza. • • Martinez Sundays, 10am to 2pm, yearround, Main St. and Estudillo.

• Walnut Creek Diablo Valley Farmers Market Saturday 9a.m. - 1 p.m. Shadelands Business Park, N.Wigett Lane & Mitchell •Contra Costa Certified Farmers Market Sundays 9 am - 1 pm, Year Round, North Locust St between Giamona and Lacassie St. (925) 431-8361 http:// www.cccfm.org

VISUAL ARTS/THEATRE/ MUSIC

• The San Francisco Dungeon -- Live actors in full Barbary Coast period costume and make-up engage make this a one-of-

a-kind attraction on Fisherman’s Wharf.

(No, it’s not a sex club.) The San Francisco Dungeon is a 60-minute walkthrough experience that explores San Francisco’s dark and sinful past from the pre-Gold Rush era to Alcatraz (1849-1907). Full of laughs and screams. The stories are based on real San Francisco history and legends. Shows run continuously from Sunday - Thursday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Fisherman’s Wharf at 145 Jefferson Street, San Francisco. Admission starts at $22 for adults, with lower rates for SF Bay Area residents, youth, seniors, students, teachers and the disabled. For more information, visit: www.thedungeons.com/ sanfrancisco.

•January 20th- The Jazz Room Concert/Kick Off Event. For Jazz Series coming to the Danville Village Theatre - Featuring Bay Area professional, International, and local high schools.

Enjoy two-time Grammy Award Winning Violinist Mads Tolling; Bay Area acclaimed Pianist/ Keyboardist Frank Martin (who has worked with Sting, Idina Menzel, Chris Botti, Lady Gaga, Elton John, Jennifer Hudson, James Taylor, Mary J Blige, Madonna); guitarist/music professor, Mike Williams; the 17 Piece Kelly Park Big Band; Diane Gilfether and The Blackhawk Chorus’s vocal ensemble Special Blend; Bay Area Vocalist Eve Marie Shahoian. ( Billboards 2012 Award for Outstanding Original song “Waiting For You”). Local Schools and Music Educators Ken Abrams Jazz Vocal Ensemble from SR Valley High, Jodi Reeds Chamber Singers from Monte Vista High and Stephen Herrick’s Advanced Jazz Combo Group from Athenian School.

Doors open at 7:15. Tickets at www. villagetheatreshows.com. To learn about upcoming Jaz Room shows in 2017, Jam night, Cabaret Night, Open Mic, Student Workshops visit www.facebook.com/ TheJazzRoom.

•February 11- Daddy-Daughter Dance Saturday, at the Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Drive, Clayton. 6:30 p.m. through 9:00 p.m.

Music provided by DJ Terry Newberry.

Includes delectable desserts and beverages, and a complimentary professional photo.

Dads, grandpas, uncles, friends and mentors of all ages are welcome. This year’s decorations will feature a “Woodland Fairy” theme. Fairy attire encouraged. $25 per couple, $5 for additional guest (age 3 & under are free). Online sign-up: http://bit. ly/Daddydaughterdance. By check, mail to Clayton Community Church, 6055 Main St., Clayton 94517. For questions contact Carol Gaiser at cgaiser@pacbell.net or (925) 890-5301.

•Diablo Ballet Starts the New Year with “Body and Soul” Diablo Ballet

presents the second program of its 23rd Season, “Body and Soul”, featuring four diverse ballets with choreography by Christopher Wheeldon, Sonya Delwaide and Robert Dekkers, February 3 and 4 at the Del Valle Theatre 1963 Tice Valley Blvd. in Walnut Creek. Performance times: Friday, February 3 at 8:00 pm; Saturday, February 4 at 2:00 pm & 8:00 pm. followed by an interactive Q&A with the dancers and choreographers and includes a complimentary dessert reception. For tickets, call 925-943SHOW (7469) or visit www.diabloballet. org.

•February 11- “Just for Kicks” Martial Arts Benefit Show. Concord Dojo, United States Karate Systems celebrates its 30th anniversary with Martial arts performance. 6 P.M. at Berean Christian High School, 245 El Divisadero Ave., Walnut Creek.

TICKETS: $10 if purchased by February 6. $15 at the door. Children ages 4 years and under are FREE. •June 7 - Chicago and the Doobie Brothers kick off their 2017 coheadlining tour on June 7 at the Concord Pavilion. General sale tickets are available online at LiveNation.com, Ticketmaster. com or charge by phone at 1-800-7453000. Tickets are also available at select Wal-Mart locations. For general Pavilion information, call (925) 676-8742.

GOVERNMENT

• Concord City Council, 1st, 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, 6:30 pm, Council Chambers, 1950 Parkside Dr, Concord. Or watch online at http://www.ci.concord.ca.us/citygov/ agendas/council/ • Concord Planning Commission 1st and 3rd Wednesdays 7 p.m. Concord Chamber, Concord Civic Center 1950 Parkside Dr www.cityofconcord.org • Clayton City Council, 1st and 3rd Tuesdays, 7pm. Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Rd, Clayton. http://ci.clayton.ca.us • Martinez City Council, 1st and 3rd Wednesdays. City Hall, 7 pm, 525 Henrietta Street, Martinez. Or Listen online at http:// www.granicus.com/streamingMediaHelp/ minimumSystem.htm, http://www. cityofmartinez.org • Walnut Creek City Council, 1st and 3rd Tuesdays, 7 pm. Or watch online at http:// www.walnut-creek.org/services/citizen/ granicus.asp •Pleasant Hill City Council, 1st and 3rd Wednesdays, 7:30 pm, Council Chambers of the Pleasant Hill City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill. Or follow online at http://www.ci.pleasant-hill.ca.us/media/

A complete listing of calendar and support groups may be found on our Website at www.DiabloGazette.com

Diablo Gazette • JANUARY 2017 • Page 16 • www.DiabloGazette.com | www.fb.com/DiabloGazette •(925)-298-9990

Acalanes-Lafayette Willed Its Way to a First State Volleyball Title

by Chace Bryson

Photo Credit: Chace Bryson/SportStars Magazine

The Acalanes team swarms the court to celebrate its CIF Div. III State Championships — the program’s first state title and school’s second overall.

Congratulations to the Acalanes Dons who won their first California Interscholastic Federation Div. III Girls Volleyball State title. They defeated 11thseeded Crossroads-Santa Monica at the Santiago College gymnasium. Acalanes

won in a nail-biter, 15-14 in the fifth and final game to win 3 games to 2. It was the school’s second ever state title of any sport, joining the 1998-99 girls basketball team. A remarkable feat considering the Acalanes Dons began its season with a

new coach and just five returning players.

The team featured just four seniors and suffered fits and starts over the first month and a half and really didn’t find its best groove until late October. But the Dons closed out their season winning 13

of 14 before entering the tournament.

Read Chace Bryson’s complete story of Acalanes Dons’ spectacular season and tournament run along with player interviews in SportStars Magazine or at http://www.SportStarsOnline.com.

Concord Dojo Celebrates 30th Year Anniversary “Just for Kicks” Martial Arts Show

by Andrea Cardinale/SportStars Magazine Martial Arts is a way of life that is steeped in Asian tradition, having evolved over the last 2,000 years from a way of developing discipline and fitness, both mentally and physically, into a wide range of activities that includes self-defense, confidence, respect, and, of course, discipline and exercise.

Since February 1987, Ron and Joyce Krupa, owners of United States Karate Systems (USKS) studio, or “dojo,” have taught classes in mixed martial arts to participants from ages 4 -104. Their eclectic approach teaches the best of Karate, Judo, Aikido, Jujitsu and Taekwondo. Locals have embraced the diversified and multi-faceted martial arts curriculum being taught in a state-ofthe-art family training facility located in Concord.

Prior to the popularity of martial arts, the Krupas were giving off-site performances, showcasing the talents of their students to educate and entertain those who weren’t familiar with the arts. They have performed annually for 25 years at Bay Area KidFest, along with performances at Concord Fall Fest, Police Olympics and at local schools.

Today, with martial arts having reached the mainstream, USKS continues their annual off-site performance tradition. On Saturday, Feb. 11, 6 p.m., it will host “Just for Kicks” martial arts show that celebrates the dojo’s 30 years and features performances by many of its students, including black belts and the Performance Team. The event will take place at Berean Christian High in Walnut Creek.

“These performances show the value of learning a life skill such as martial arts and what the result of respect, discipline, focus and self-control can bring,” said Ron Krupa. “It is also a unique opportunity for the younger students to see … what they can achieve. After all, every black belt was a white belt that just never gave up!

And, it’s another

opportunity for us to give back to the community.”

The Krupas, met in high school and became engaged while attending college. While Ron was attending a police academy in the early 1970s, he wanted to learn how to defend himself without using a weapon. He began taking martial arts classes and Joyce joined him. They loved the art’s philosophy. Together they trained, achieved accolades, and eventually decided to teach others.

For the first five years, the Krupas operated out of the multi-use room at King’s Valley Christian School. Needing a larger space, they moved to their current location in the Dianda Shopping Center, where they have remained for 25 years.

Today, Shihan (which means “most excellent role model” in Japanese) Ron, a Martial Arts Hall of Fame Master,

and Sensei (“teacher,” in Japanese) Joyce, a 5thdegree Black Belt, have raised four sons, all of whom have achieved black belts and are accomplished in martial arts. They also boast five grandchildren who are currently in training.

The Krupas are grateful for the relationships they’ve forged through USKS. “We have generations of families that have been with us for many, many years,” said Joyce. “Our students really are an extension of our family.”

They have awarded an average of three black belts every year over the past 30 years, but are perhaps most fulfilled by the impact they’ve had on their students.

“To watch a young person who grew up here go off to college and now make their way in the world is so rewarding,” Joyce said. “Our USKS Black Belts have gone on to U.S. Military Academies, Harvard, Yale, Northwestern, Stanford, Cal, UC DAVIS, UCLA, USC, Cal Poly etc. Earning a black belt is a remarkable achievement that, for many, springboards them on to even bigger accomplishments.

We have had children who were afraid to walk in the door, who are now mentoring others. We are very proud of each one…

We are Martial Arts with a Mission –- we are training Champions of Character.”

For more information about USKS Martial Arts, located at 4493 Clayton Rd. in Concord, visit www.usksmartialarts. com. Better yet, check out their upcoming “Just for Kicks” martial Arts Benefit Show on February 11 at Berean Christian High School. TICKETS: $10 if purchased by February 6. $15 at the door. Children ages 4 years and under are FREE.