APR 19 The Pioneer 2024

April 19, 2024

headed to Paris Olympics

Rowing in Sarasota, Fla.

In the women’s single sculls, the Clayton woman earned a spot on the American rowing team for the Paris Games by clocking 8:04.01 to finish more than six seconds ahead of Margaret Fellows in the Trials finals. Kohler, who finished fourth in the single sculls at the 2023 World Rowing Championships, took an early lead in the first 500

See Kohler, page B1

De La Salle wrestling legend Peyton Omania is competing this weekend in the US Olympic Trials for Greco Roman wrestling. See Page B1 for details on his biggest meet ever.

CV voices rise to the top at choir competition

Clayton Valley Charter High School’s choirs swept the awards as part of the World Stride Choir and Music Festival in Nashville April 3-7.

The Show Choir, Concert Choir and Women’s Ensemble each brought home gold, along with the Adjudicator’s Award. The choir also won the Choral Sweepstakes Award as the highest scoring choral program overall.

According to parent volunteer Danielle Grimesey, the choirs faced a lot of competition. “It was music students from nine states, and there were 436 festival members,” she says.

World Stride puts on adju-

dicated competitions for students in choir and music classes in 20 cities across North America. Grimesey says Clayton Valley’s students and teacher/advisor Elizabeth Emigh succeeded this year despite some obstacles.

“They worked really, really, really hard, especially because Concert Choir and Show Choir was put together in one class this year. She was teaching two classes at the same time,” Grimesey says.

Being a volunteer gave Grimesey the chance to watch daughter Addison and the entire choir of 55 students learn, evolve and excel.

“I love seeing how proud they are when they reach a goal. For a lot of these kids, it’s the first time they’ve ever won

anything,” Grimesey shares.

A COMPETITIVE FAMILY Senior McCovey Brennan, who has been in choir for three years, was surprised by the big victory.

“Knowing this was my last time competing with the group, I hoped we would get gold for one of the choirs,” says McCovey. “I never expected to sweep the competition.”

She notes that being in a competitive choir comes with its challenges.

“Choir is a family. We fight, we laugh, but we come together at the end to celebrate what we accomplished,” she says. “What matters to me is all the hard work we put in, the

See Choir, page 8

In a surprise to no one, Police Chief Mark Bustillos reported an increase in shoplifting, burglaries and stolen vehicles during his annual report to the City Council on April 9.

From 2022 to ’23, shoplifting was up a whopping 76 percent – from 227 to 401. Burglary/breaking and entering went from 500 to 528, and there were 203 robberies, compared to 182. While thefts from motor vehicles actually showed a decline from 1,253 to 944, vehicle theft jumped to 812 from 735.

In fact, most crime numbers were up, but the chief attributed part of that to a change in reporting with the new National Information Based Reporting System (NIBRS). “Gross numbers do look larger, but we’re counting the number of incidences per event,” he said. “If I rob you with a firearm, and then I

See Crime, page 5

Concord, Brookfield moving forward with new Term Sheet

Community input key to success for CNWS developer

The City Council unanimously approved a Term Sheet for development of the former Concord Naval Weapons Station on March 19, after the developer called the proposal “solid and sound.”

Working under the title BCUS Acquisitions, Brook-

field is the third master developer for the 2,300-acre site. Since being selected in August 2023, the company has been adapting previous plans as well as talking with community members. “We’ve gotten a lot of really good insights, and we’ve learned a lot about the community of Concord,” said Brookfield president Josh Roden. Given concerns about the financial wherewithal of former developer Concord First Partners, Roden assured the council of Brookfield’s resolve. “We want to be careful so that this development can continue to be developed through economic cycles. One of the ways is ensuring that each

phase can stand alone from a financial perspective,” he reported.

The Term Sheet also provides for a schedule of performance milestones and open book accounting that gives the city rights to inspections and audits.

MULTI-FACETEDPROJECT

Brookfield intends to develop the site in five phases over 40 years.

Plans include:

• About 12,270 housing units –with a goal of 25% affordable housing.

• A Project Labor Agreement with local trades. Kara

See Brookfield page 7

Kara Kohler is Paris-bound after qualifying for her third United States Olympic rowing team this month at the 2024 U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Team Trials –

The three choirs from Clayton Valley Charter all took gold at the World Stride Choir and Music Festival earlier this month.

JAY BEDECARRÉ The Pioneer

BEV BRITTON The Pioneer

VINCE MARTELLACCI Correspondent

BEV BRITTON The Pioneer

POLICE CHIEF MARK BUSTILLOS

Food Bank’s new CEO follows in father’s footsteps

While Caitlin Sly is just weeks into her job as president/CEO of the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano, she is not new to serving people with food insecurities. In fact, a passion for helping others runs in her family.

“I come from a family of non-profit professionals,” noted Sly, whose father Larry was executive director of the Food Bank for more than 40 years before retiring in 2020.

Though the title has changed, father and daughter are carrying out the same work. And, her new office is at the Concord warehouse – a building dedicated to her father in 2012.

“I’m incredibly proud of the work Caitlin has done in the non-profit world and am anxious to see all she can accomplish at the Food Bank,” he said. “If you had told me that the little girl who came to Food Bank events

would someday replace me in the job I loved, I would have thought you were a bit offcenter. Caitlin is a different person than me, but I think she brings the skills the Food Bank needs at this critical time.”

A FAMILYAFFAIR

Born and raised in Albany and now living in Walnut Creek, Caitlin has other family members with the philanthropic spirit. Her uncles and aunts were in food banking, and her mother worked at an environmental education nonprofit for years.

“Giving back is in my blood, and I have always felt like if I was going to dedicate my career to something, it should be helping out those that are less fortunate,” she said. “I feel like I have been very privileged to grow up in the Bay Area in a middle-class household and like I owe it to my community to help people who may not have had the same opportunities that I have

had. I truly believe it is unjust that any of our neighbors should go hungry and I have dedicated my career to doing whatever I can to affect change.”

After graduating from UC Davis with a major in Latin

American history and a minor in Spanish, Sly taught English in Mexico for a year. She started at the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano years ago as a temporary employee during the holiday season.

Eventually hired full-time, she worked her way up through the Program Department – ultimately landing the role of director of programs.

MOVING ON TO MEALS ON WHEELS

After 11 years, she left the Food Bank to become executive director of Meals on Wheels Diablo Region in 2020.

“I was there for four years, leading the organization through COVID-19, a fire in our headquarters and an everincreasing need,” she said.

She also got married in October 2021 to Manar Mohamed, who is from Sudan. “We had a wedding with a mix of Western and Sudanese traditions. It was very fun – great music and even better food.” Her first day as the Food

Bank’s president/CEO was March 25, and her new coworkers are thrilled to have her on board.

“I’m very excited to work with Caitlin and learn from her. She’s a trusted, proven, dedicated leader who’s well respected in the community,” said Krystine Dinh, director of marketing and communications. “She’s a bold advocate and so approachable. Even in the few short days she has returned, she has made herself available to staff with open arms. She’s going to bring so much expertise, insight and passion to her role.”

LOOKINGFORLONG-TERM SOLUTIONS

Dinh said Sly knows exactly how to effectively make a difference.

“On top of her breadth and depth of experience in food banking, I think what makes Caitlin unique is her ability to build strong partnerships,” said Dinh. “She understands that solving to end hunger requires a collaborative approach. So if you see her

out and about in the community, say hello.”

With a love for humanity and equity, Sly views food as a basic human right.

“The Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano and our network of 260 agency partners serve 398,000 of our neighbors every month – people who would otherwise have to choose between paying for rent or feeding their family,” she said. “I believe that is not a choice anyone should have to make. Further, we are not only on the front line of defense against hunger amongst our neighbors, we actively advocate for food assistance programs and longterm solutions that help fight food insecurity systemically.”

When not working, Sly loves to travel and be outdoors.

“I do a lot of hiking with my husband and dog in the beautiful open space we are so lucky to be surrounded with here in the Walnut Creek/Concord/Clayton area,” she said. “My husband and I are also preparing for a baby (in June) and so that is occupying quite a bit of time.”

Just weeks into her new job, Sly is already thinking about the Food Bank’s future.

“I am thrilled to be taking on this new role and to get to work with the wonderful staff, volunteers, donors and community partners that make our work possible,” she said. “The Food Bank is coming up on our 50th anniversary next year, and I look forward to leading this organization for decades to come.”

See a brief YouTube video that Charleen Earley made for this story at https://youtu.be/UkEHnvagULY?si=i2zPWptBCKfxwP_-

Pleasant Hill toasts city/park employees, nonprofits

On May 2, the Pleasant Hill Community Foundation (PHCF) will recognize nonprofits improving the quality of life in the area, as well as honoring two employees with the city and park district whose individual efforts had made the community a better place.

The PHCF will spotlight

those organizations and individuals 5-7 p.m. in the McHale Room of the Pleasant Hill Community Center, 320 Civic Dr. City planner Troy Fujimoto will receive the Oliver Holmes Award as the outstanding Pleasant Hill employee for 2024, while the Pleasant Hill Recreation & Park District’s Holmes Award honoree is facilities and rental manager

Ryan Harriman. “Troy Fujimoto is a tremendous help to the council, city staff and overall community,” said Pleasant Hill Mayor Matt Rinn. “Troy has gone above and beyond to help the citizens with an approach of ‘How can we make this work and collaborate efforts to accomplish projects for the needs of the community?’ ”

Harriman, who will mark

CV robotics to compete in World Championship

For the first time, Clayton Valley Charter High School is sending a robotics team to the VEX World Championship in Dallas April 24-27.

VEX is the largest robotics competition in the world, with more than 40,000 teams worldwide. The CVCHS team 94517x is one of 2,400 top teams qualified to compete in the World Championship. There will be 30,000+ student competitors and 50,000+ attendees, from 50 states and 50+ countries.

“We are excited to compete with and against the friends we made and meeting new ones from all over the world.” says Eric Catalano, team captain and programmer. Also part of the team are master builder Santi Martinez, quartermaster Alex Mihaylov, CAD designer Will Gallagher and documentation manager Asher Wan.

If you want to support the

team, tax-free charitable donations will help cover registration, travel and lodging. Visit www.myschoolbucks.com/ver 2/prdembd?ref=ZZ87P59V8 Q3RJQ4_ZZ62EWW26CFW S40. For more about Clayton Valley robotics, to go www.claytonvalley.org/ugly-connect/news-media?tag_id=85. For details about the VEX World Championship, see www.youtube.com/watch?v=JLMz 48ZzgYQ.

11 years with the park district in August, voiced excitement for being nominated and receiving the award.

“I am very humbled and appreciative of my peers and community members for choosing me,” he said, adding that the honor “came out of left field.”

“Overall, I am excited to win something,” he said. Harriman started as facilities coordinator and then oversaw special events. For the past five years, he has been in building maintenance.

Fujimoto and Harriman will receive $1,000 stipends in recognition for their service to the community.

The Oliver Holmes Awards were established in 2006, named for Oliver Holmes. He was very active in Pleasant Hill, serving on the first Recreation & Park District board and later on the City Council and East Bay Regional Park District board before he died in 2007. He was one of the founders of the Pleasant Hill Community Foundation.

Also on the May program is recognition of various nonprofits with community grants.

Awardees are: Pleasant Hill elementary schools, specifically Strandwood, Gregory Gardens, Sequoia, Pleasant Hill and Vahalla; Rodgers Ranch Heritage Center; Pleasant Hill 4th of July Commission; Pleasant Hill Recreation & Park District; Choice in Aging; and We Care Services for Children.

In the past, the PHCF has extended support to the Pleasant Hill Library and Monument Crisis Center, among other entities. The group also does outreach with local businesses during the year, with donations going back into the community by typically sustaining grants for the full year.

As part of the May 2 event, proceeds from raffle tickets

will also be invested into the community through future PHCF grants. Tickets are $5 each, or attendees can buy an arm length for $20.

Next month’s gathering will include the presentation of the foundation’s Cornerstone Award that has been given out periodically since 2000. This year, they will posthumously honor Holmes.

Former recipients have included Jason and Kathy Olson/2022, John Matthesen and the DVC Culinary Arts Program/2021, Hal Jeffreys/2020, Jeff Clark/2018’19, Jim Utz/2017, Bob Berggren/2016 and Dawn Block and Michael Harris/2015.

Photo courtesy of Ryan Herriman Channeling Elvis Presley’s 1956 hit song “Ready Teddy,” Ryan Herriman got his hips a shakin’ while volunteering at a Pleasant Hill Senior Center event. The city will celebrate Herriman’s accomplishments on May 2.

Team 94517x from Clayton Valley Charter works on their robot at the UC Berkeley Showcase on Nov. 19, 2023.

Given the ongoing popularity of the Art & Wine Festival, organizers are relying on the tried and true for the April 27-28 event.

Festivities in the Town Center will once again be heavily focused on good drinks and local artisans selling a wide variety of their creations.

“Art & Wine will pretty much remain the same event it has for the past 29 years,” says AJ Chippero of the Clayton Business & Community Association (CBCA).

However, there will be a new place where festivalgoers can hang out. “This year, we plan on adding seating and tables along with wine and beer booths in the Corral at the end

of Main Street to make it an area for people to take a little break,” says Chippero.

The party begins at 10 a.m. both days, ending at 7 p.m. Saturday and 5 p.m. Sunday. Chippero anticipates this year’s show will be a big one.

“We sold out of vendor spaces, so the streets will be full of people vending their crafts and other items in addition to the food court and live music stage,” he says, adding that there will also be a kid and teen zone. The festival will feature a variety of art mediums, from oils and photography to jewelry. Meg Hanna, a volunteer who works with the vendors, offers a preview of some of

the art: “We have people who do metal work, people who do tie-dyes, people who do textiles and linens.” Hanna describes it as a major shopping event, full of products “you’d put up on your walls or outside your home.”

The food also stands out this year. In a rare move, a Town Center business will participate – with Sip N Sweet selling shave ice and frozen treats. In addition, a food truck will be onsite.

Live music starts at 11:30 a.m. Saturday and 10:30 a.m. Sunday, with three bands playing hits from the 1950s onward until each day ends.

Concord to review signatures challenging rent ordinance

BEV BRITTON The Pioneer

a grass-roots effort, homeowners, Realtors,” said Jo Sciarroni, a local real estate broker and property manager who launched the petition drive last month. “They’re everywhere –all the grocery stores, three different businesses and my office.”

Sciarroni was expected to turn in the signatures on April 18, after the Pioneer’s deadline. City Clerk Joelle Fockler will do a “prima facie” review and tally the signatures. Then she will hand it over to the Contra Costa County Elections Office to verify that there are at least 7,204 signatures – or 10% of Concord residents registered to vote per the county’s last official report. The Elections Office has 30 days from the date of the petition filing, excluding weekends and holidays.

DEBATE OVER

SINGLE-FAMILY HOMES

At issue is the Residential Tenant Protection Program the City Council approved 4-1 on March 5. It increased “just cause” eviction protections, expanded the city’s Rent Registry and established a Rent Stabilization Program.

Sciarroni said she started the signature drive because the council “had a deaf ear to how it would affect homeowners and home providers.”

Rent stabilization and rent roll-back components would only apply to multi-family rental complexes of two or more units built before Feb. 1, 1995. However, owners of single-family homes and condos would be included in the justcause, no-fault eviction portions. That means if the owners want to move in, they would have to pay the tenants $2,000 plus two months’ rent.

“When I saw the defeated look on the poor people who were at the council meeting – I mean a lot of them were senior citizens – I thought: This is just not right,” Sciarroni said.

“I think the intention was a good one – to protect tenants’ rights,” she added, “but I don’t think they gave enough consideration to the others it would be affecting.”

Despite others’ claims to the contrary, Sciarroni insists she doesn’t have the backing of any official groups – including the California Apartment Association (CAA).

“This was just me being upset because they snuck in single-family homes up to four units,” she said. “This is an unfair taking of property rights, especially when it concerns single-family homes.”

COUNCILREVIEW OF THE PROCESS

At the Feb. 13 meeting, Councilmember Carlyn Obringer brought up concerns about homeowners being unaware of the ordinance and suggested it be put up for a citywide vote in November.

“If I asked anyone in my neighborhood, even people who are renting out homes, I don’t think they would know anything about this. And I think it would only be fair to enable them to get engaged on the topic,” Obringer said, adding that there could be “backlash” to the single-family component.

Councilmember Dominic Aliano countered that “the conversation about single-family homes has been part of our normal public process.”

Once Sciarroni submitted her petition, the city suspended implementation of the ordinance. Meanwhile, tenant groups rallied on April 7 regarding the need for rent control in Concord.

If successful, the referendum will be on the November ballot – unless the council decides to repeal the ordinance. If the petition is deemed invalid, community relations manager Jennifer Ortega said the city will implement the new rules.

Crowds fill Clayton’s Main Street during the CBCA Art and Wine Festival as they have for the last 29 years. The festival is run completely by volunteers and all proceeds are donated back to the community in the form of grants and scholarships.

Low-intensity fires will help lessen risk on Mount Diablo

In a move that makes good on a promise made decades ago, California State Park officials are planning to ease wildfire concerns by using fire on Mount Diablo – intentionally.

If all conditions are right, the district will take the first steps this spring to reduce fire risk to the region.

Burning piles of carefully placed vegetation and small strategically chosen areas of grassland will be the start of a long overdue return to an era without high severity megafires.

SOUND NATIVE AMERICAN LANDMANAGEMENT

It comes as no surprise to anyone in California that wildfires are a top concern in many communities. The devastating fires of recent decades have taken lives, destroyed towns and are making getting or keeping insurance policies difficult for much of the state. What may come as a surprise to many, especially those not immersed in fire as a profession, is that the problem is not too much fire – but not enough fire.

Prior to European colo-

Hearing the words fire and Mount Diablo in the same sentence has firefighters looking grim, nearby residents throwing nervous glances in that direction and emergency managers responsible for evacuations patting their pockets to check for their phones. With good reason. Most of the large wildfires of recent decades in Contra Costa County have either been inside the boundaries of Mount Diablo State Park or in its surrounding foothills, known collectively as the Diablo Range.

nization, Native Americans managed the land for thousands of years, extensively with fire. They burned at least 4 million acres every year. The only modern equivalent was 2020, referred to as the “worst” fire year in modern history.

The millions of acres the natives burned bear little resemblance to the mega fires in recent years. Their regular use of fire kept the understory of forests open and clear, preventing the accumulation of brush and low branches that firefighters refer to as “ladder fuels” that can ignite tree canopies and destroy whole forests.

The arrival of European settlers brought a halt to the Native Americans practices of land management, but it did not stop the growth of vegetation – which has continued to accumulate for more than 100 years. Mount Diablo, along

with much of the West, is in a state of fire deficit, and the bill has come due.

NEWPOLICIESMEAN A RETURN TO BURNS

Some land agencies have been using prescribed fire as a management tool in recent years, with great results. The John Muir Land Trust, in collaboration with the Moraga Orinda Fire District and other fire agencies, has held prescribed burns on the Painted Rock property several times. The East Bay Regional Park District also uses prescribed fire as a management tool, and other state parks have had successful burns in recent years.

These low-intensity fires serve the dual purpose of lessening the fire risk to adjacent communities by reducing accumulated vegetation and removing invasive plant species so native species can thrive again.

Slow ramp-up underway for relief through Concord Immigration Court

Seats sit empty now and hallways are eerily quiet on the 8th floor of Building 2 of the Gateway Office complex. But come early June, that will change.

Judges have been hearing only asylum cases since Feb. 12, when federal authorities opened the Bay Area’s newest Immigration Court at 1855 Gateway Boulevard adjacent to Willow Pass Road. The one assistant chief immigration judge and 10 immigration judges have focused on cases that have advanced through the process and were being heard at the San Francisco site.

The East Bay location is designed to lessen the burden on the San Francisco site, aiming to better serve those seeking relief as the level of new arrivals to the United States increases. As individuals move through the process, court appearances become longer and more involved as court officials gather information to determine the final merit of cases.

In early June, the Immigration Court judges will initiate what is called a master calendar. These proceedings are the first step in what is a long journey for immigrants.

Initial appearances on the master calendar go fairly quickly, taking about five minutes, as

the judge asks if the person is a citizen and if they have status here. Subsequently, the judge identifies what the person is applying for and their benefits under the law.

Before the appearance wraps up, persons are advised that they may want to consult an attorney and are given a continuance to retain someone or find a volunteer counsel.

Some media reports quoted attorneys who were critical of the Concord Immigration Court because it serves 10

Crime, from page 1

punch you and then I drag you 20 feet, the way NIBRS counts that is a kidnapping, a robbery and an assault – there’s three felonies. Previously, that would be one crime.”

There was a slight decrease in homicides, from 5 to 4. But, simple assaults rose 28 percent, from 763 to 978.

“We have a population in Concord that doesn’t solve their problems with words –they solve it with violence,” Bustillos said. “But we don’t have a lot of random assaults. We have very few events where it’s a stranger assaulting another person.”

Aggravated assaults were down 30%, with the chief noting that 9% involved assaults on law enforcement but only 0.2% were gang-related.

Meanwhile, the incidences of kidnapping/abduction increased to 59 from 38. That number includes “anytime you violently move a person against their will,” the chief said, adding that many are related to domestic violence. Bustillos told the council

that his department is getting more guns off the street – collecting 381 compared to 293 the previous year.

For the first time, the chief reported on officer use of force, saying he thought it was “super important” to highlight. “The numbers speak for themself: We use force less than 1 percent of the time.”

MOREGOOD NEWS Bustillos listed some of the department’s “investigative wins” in 2023, including:

• `Solving a 2021 homicide through phone data, license plate readers (LPRs) and DNA technology.

• Joining a multi-agency investigation into organized retail thefts totaling $650,000. “It led to an apartment that looked like Costco: diapers on the left, razors over there.”

• Arrest for a murder linked to a fentanyl overdose.

The department’s partnership with the county’s A3 (Anyone, Anywhere, Anytime)

counties and the immigrants may not know how to get local legal representation.

Kathyrn Mattingly, a press secretary with the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR), an agency of the Department of Justice, responded by saying the court “is currently staffed to meet all support needs. Computer systems are functioning and EOIR has a dedicated Service Center to assist staff as needed.”

As of late March, the

team for mental health response is another source of pride for the chief. In 2003, there were 300 A3 calls, with A3 responding alone to 80.

Both A3 and a Concord officer went to 47 calls.

“Anytime we’re diverting sworn staff from these types of calls, we can go to our higher priority ones and get to our quality-of-life calls,” Bustillos said. “So it gives us more capacity.”

The A3 calls came from all over the city. “It doesn’t matter your income strata or where you live, mental health has affected everyone,” he noted.

The chief pointed to enhanced public safety through the department’s use of drones, which aided in 28 search and rescues and 338 law enforcement operations. LPRs and the Community Camera Registry also boost the department’s ability to solve crimes.

Tools for residents include an interactive online map showing reported crimes and the Concord Connect app, which has seen increased usage for non-emergency issues. “Those are 6,000 calls we don’t

From pinecones that need the heat of a fire to open to wildflowers that only bloom after a fire, many native species in California depend on fire.

Officials carefully plan lowintensity prescribed fires to minimize smoke impacts to communities. They monitor weather forecasts, and the Bay Area Air Quality Management District must approve all fires.

The use of prescribed fire plays such an important role in reducing the risk of highintensity wildfire and the

health impacts of those large fires, that the American Lung Association supports the use of prescribed fire.

These new programs mark the beginning of the path to safer communities and a more beautiful mountain.

Susanna Thompson is a fire commissioner with the Contra Costa Fire Protection District and has a bachelor’s degree in wildfire science and the urban interface. Contact her at sthompsonmcr@gmail.com.

EOIR has initiated several resources for noncitizens navigating court proceedings, including self-help material, Immigration Court help desks where unrepresented respondents can seek assistance and the Immigration Court Online Resource (ICOR), which provides general information on what will happen during court hearings and how noncitizens can prepare for hearings.

“In general, the court has sought ways to improve efficiency through creating specific docket deadlines, implementing various case flow processing measures, and increasing hiring of judges and staff,” said James Horwitz, a spokesman for the National Association of Immigration Judges.

“However, the volume of the caseload still outpaces the number of judge teams seated on the bench today, with a backlog of over 3.4 million cases pending nationally.”

The number of judges assigned to Concord will easily double as master calendar proceedings commence in earnest to accommodate what is a triage process for individuals making their first appearance. Soon, the court will be filled with the sights and sounds of individuals and families hoping for a better life from whence they came.

have to go out on,” Bustillos said.

ON THE WISHLIST

Councilmember Laura Hoffmeister asked the chief how he would improve the department if he “won the lottery.”

“It’s traffic – I don’t even need to think about it,” he replied. “I wouldn’t make half the meetings I’d have to go to if I started pulling over all the red-light runners.”

In response to Mayor Edi Birsan’s question about future technology needs, he talked about enhanced drones now being tested.

“That would be a drone launched from the roof of the police department if you get a hot call: Shots fired, person down. The drone is able to respond faster than our officers and verify the call,” he said.

“The other area is really the philosophical question of how do you use the data that you are able to collect,” Bustillos added. “Being data driven, we want to make proof of concept that it’s gonna help us do our jobs better.”

David Scholz Entryway to the Immigration Court in Concord is just off the 8th floor elevator at 1855 Gateway Boulevard.

DAVID SCHOLZ Correspondent

Concord council reviews goals, from homelessness to climate change

Every spring, the City Council holds a Saturday session for goal setting wherein the staff, led by the city manager, makes a presentation on what the top and secondary goals were last year and what was accomplished, setting the stage for our discussion on what the goals should be for the next fiscal year.

It is also an opportunity for councilmembers and the public to pitch what they would like to see emphasized.

As part of my preparation for this, I talk to people in line at Safeway, sitting around Peet’s Coffee, stopping them in their dog-walking tracks and even door to door. The

question I ask is simple: “What three goals should the city work on?” I give no examples so as not to slant the results.

Overwhelmingly, the No. 1 goal was to address homelessness. The views on approach were evenly split between a compassionate “we need to help the homeless get off the street” to “we need to just get them off the street,” expressing exasperation or fatigue. Then by a significant margin came “fix the roads” and public safety. Even when I explain that we are in the mid-

dle of $114 million of roadwork and they can see the results on Treat, Meadow Lane, Willow Pass, Oak Grove, etc., they still point to other streets that are not done. We’re on it.

As for public safety, the most common focus is for more traffic cops. We have three, but had 12 a decade ago. Now that more roads are fixed, people have decided that they can drive like they’re attempting to reach Star Trek’s warp speed. The increase of

See Birsan, page 7

Clayton names interim city manager, begins work on Trails Assessment

At our March 19 meeting, the City Council approved the search process for hiring both an interim city manager and new city manager. To that end, at the April 2 meeting, the council appointed Adam Polizer as interim city manager, effective April 15. This is due to the departure of our current city manager, who

As we head into summer, I’d like to extend an invitation to come and enjoy some of the many exciting events coming up in Pleasant Hill over the next few months.

For food aficionados, Off the Grid has returned 5-9 p.m. Wednesdays. Nine food trucks line up on the street outside City Hall – making for a fun and tasty family night out. The folks at Off the Grid set up picnic tables and Adirondack chairs, but families are encouraged to bring blankets or chairs to enjoy their meals by the lake.

has taken the position of city manager with Suisun City in Solana County. Further, at the April 2 meeting, the council provided direction to staff and the Trails & Landscape Committee on conducting a Request for Proposal for a Trails Assessment. In addition, we adopted a resolution to establish a Vision Zero Policy related to eliminating fatalities and injury accidents on the city roadway network in conjunction with approval of the Local Safety Plan. Also on March 19, the council directed staff to initiate the process to declare surplus portions of the city-owned open space property along Marsh Creek Road adjacent to Oakhurst Country Club’s lower parking lot. This is the result of the city receiving interest from a developer for a potential residential project.

At the April 16 meeting, after the Pioneer’s deadline, the council planned to appoint the third member to the Financial Sustainability Committee. Then, the committee will have the necessary team to review the city’s financial resources and recommend a course and direction for the future financial needs of the city.

Regarding civic events in Clayton, there are two activities of note:

Clayton Cleans Up. 9 a.m.noon Saturday, April 20. This annual event is an excellent way to help pick up and remove excess trash and debris. Join us afterward at City Hall, where Republic Services will provide a terrific BBQ of hot dogs and hamburgers for all.

Clayton Art & Wine Festival. Saturday and Sunday, April 27-28. This annual festival downtown offers great food,

wonderful vendors, beer, wine and live entertainment. The Art & Wine Festival is always a terrific April event.

As I mentioned in my previous column, the City Council and I look forward to the events celebrating Clayton’s 60th anniversary of our 1964 inauguration. We encourage everyone to get involved. Please contact City Hall if you would like to volunteer your time or expertise.

Again, as your mayor, I will work hard to maintain Clayton’s charm and character while running an open and transparent local government. You can reach out to me directly with any questions or concerns at 925-673-7316 or JimD@claytonca.gov.

Let’s make 2024 a year to remember in Clayton. I look forward to working with you.

Off the Grid, Art, Wine and Music Festival kick off summer

In May, downtown Pleasant Hill will be the site of the Chamber of Commerce’s 20th Art, Wine, and Music Festival. The event takes place May 1819 on Crescent Drive, featuring arts and crafts, two performer stages and a kids zone. Find information and performer schedules at www.pleasanthillchamber.com.

Starting Memorial Day weekend, the lake at City Hall will be the place to be every other Sunday as we kick off another season of great music. The Sunset by the Lake Summer Concert Series will start with the Great Space Coaster, bringing their take on classic music from the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s on May 26. To make the concerts more family friendly, we are adding some new dimensions – including having food trucks on the street so families can pick up dinner

before the music begins. Additionally, the June 9, July 7 and Aug. 4 concerts will feature a Family Fun Zone. Introduced last year, the Family Fun Zone is a way to keep the younger crowd engaged while parents can enjoy the music. And, the Bay Area Metropolitan Car Club will hold a show out on the street on June 23. For more information and to see the full concert lineup, go to www.pleasanthillca.org/summer concerts.

The community is invited to join us 5-9 p.m. June 19 for the city’s 2nd Annual Juneteenth Celebration. Organized by the Diversity Commission, the event is a way of recognizing the June 19 end of slavery. The commission will have activities, performers and the music of the West African Highlife band. And because June 19 falls on a Wednesday this year, the com-

mission is partnering with Off the Grid so there will be the usual lineup of food trucks to make the atmosphere even more festive. Music, fun and craft beer will keep the fun going into July as Pleasant Hill Park comes alive with the annual Pleasant Hill Recreation and Park District’s Blues and Brews Festival. The festival kicks off at 6 p.m. Friday, July 19, with a pre-party featuring live music, food and beverages. The main event is July 20, featuring multiple bands, craft beer tasting, a beer garden, craft and community vendors, and a free kids zone. Find out more at www.bluesandbrewsfestival.com.

It is going to be a fantastic summer here in Pleasant Hill, and I hope you can make some or all of these great events. Contact Matt Rinn at Mrinn@plesanthillca.org.

Two county programs help preserve open spaces,

our natural environment. In honor of Earth Day, I would like to share two county initiatives aimed at supporting, restoring and safeguarding our natural surroundings: the Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District (FCD) and the East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservancy. The FCD is committed to flood protection, ensuring the integrity of our regional storm drainage systems and reducing creek pollutants. At the Pacheco Marsh, the FCD has worked to restore degraded wetland habitats that has led to the return of tidal flows. As a result, the marsh has become a sanctuary for threatened species. Along the Clayton Valley Drain, the annual Giving the Natives a

Chance event focuses on restoring native plants. Since 2013, volunteers have placed 46,400 native plant plugs in this area, while also removing invasive plants and trash. It is important to note that the county cannot carry out all this restoration work alone. Many volunteer watershed

See Carlson, page 7

EDI BIRSAN CONCORD MAYOR

Brookfield, from page 1

• About 6 million sq. ft. of commercial space.

• Greenways, a city park and a Tournament Sports Complex.

• A veterans hall, library/community center, food bank, schools and a college campus district.

• Two fire stations and three police substations.

• Restoration of Mount Diablo Creek.

• Street improvements.

“The redevelopment of the Naval Weapons Station is an extension of the city fabric. It’s not an island,” said Barry Long of Urban Design Associates.

GETTINGTHECOMMUNITY ONBOARD

Councilmember Laura Hoffmeister applauded Brookfield for its community engagement thus far, citing a noticeable shift in resident support.

“You can really see the tone and tenor of our community this evening in our council chambers, and I think it’s a testament to all of your ongoing outreach. This is a very delightful change,” she said.

Emily Boyd of Brookfield detailed a variety of ways for

residents to continue to discuss the project, including virtual meetings, open houses, workshops, and by phone and email.

Along with the renewed interest from the community, Save Mount Diablo encouraged the council to OK the Term Sheet. “Brookfield has worked as a positive partner that, together with city staff, city leadership, residents and other community stakeholders, has the ability to deliver a world-class Concord Reuse Project,” senior land use manager Juan Pablo Galván Martinez wrote in a letter to the city. Brookfield associates also touted the project’s nod to nature. “The open space network is the foundation of the land use plan, and we really love that idea,” Long said.

QUESTIONSABOUT

BART’S PLANS

Other than concerns about when and where affordable housing would be built, the adjacent BART property provided the main point of contention during the meeting. At issue was a recent letter detail-

Carlson, from page 6

groups work throughout our region to maintain and improve our waterways. Furthermore, the county has dedicated staff for land preservation to support and protect our endangered native species.

The Habitat Conservancy is a partnership between the county and the cities of Brentwood, Clayton, Oakley and Pittsburg. It implements the East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservation Plan/Natural Community Conservation Plan (HCP/NCCP), which provides a framework to protect natural resources in East County and works to

improve and streamline the environmental permitting process for impacts on endangered species. The conservation strategy focuses on newly preserved land that connects to existing protected lands, stretching from Clayton to Byron and totaling 43 properties across 12,000 acres. The goal is to conserve 30,300 acres. Additionally, the conservancy has completed 11 habitat restoration projects, including the creation of ponds and the restoration of natural wetlands. These two initiatives are crucial for sustaining our environ-

ing BART’s qualms about contributing to infrastructure costs.

Guy Bjerke, the city’s director of development and base reuse, said city officials are willing to work with BART if the transit agency wants to be part of the Specific Plan. “But we do expect them to play some nominal, proportionate share if they do want their property in this document,” he added.

Both Bjerke and Mayor Edi Birsan expressed frustration about the overall lack of communication from BART about its plans for the property.

“Up until this time, BART has been basically stonewalling us on what they’re doing,” Birsan said. “Now is not the time to come and say, ‘Oh, I don’t want to pay this.’ First, tell me what the hell you’re going to do.”

Noting that BART can approve a certain level of development without input from the city, Bjerke said he might have to “take a wild ass guess as to what they’re gonna do” during the city’s environmental review process.

Next stages for the city and Brookfield include development of a Specific Plan and transfer of the property from the U.S. Navy.

ment and supporting the wellbeing of our natural spaces for current and future generations.

With the help of volunteers and local watershed groups, Contra Costa County works to support the growth of local protected species and helps maintain an ecological balance in our natural environment.

To learn more about these programs, please visit the FCD at www.contracosta.ca.gov/5586/ Flood-Control-District and HCP/NCCP at www.cocohcp.org. Ken Carlson is Contra Costa County District IV supervisor. Email questions or comments to Carlson at SupervisorCarlson@bos.cccounty.us or call his office at 925-655-2350.

Obituary

Ellen Christine Findlay Herdegen

August 15, 1951 – March 23, 2024

Ellen lost her 21-year battle with cancer and passed peacefully at home surrounded by family March 23. She was born in Berkeley and the world has been a better place ever since.

She attended Concord schools and was a cheerleader at Clayton Valley High School where she was named Grand Altair for the class of 1969, the highest honor for a graduating senior. She earned her B.A. degree and teaching credential at Chico State University.

A photographer, world traveler, beloved kindergarten teacher for over 20 years in Fort Bragg, Concord and Antioch, and a lifelong music and jazz enthusiast, Ellen was also a long-time voting member of the National Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences for the Grammy Awards.

After working for the Concord Jazz Festival and Concord Jazz record label, Ellen was critical to the early success of the Concord Pavilion as chief photographer and member of the public relations staff.

Ellen Findlay and Jerry Herdegen were married Dec. 30, 1987. They had cemented their relationship while traveling 40,000 miles around the country that year in a tiny motorhome visiting 48 states. After that, 36 years of marriage was easy.

She was an advocate for Concord and its education and arts communities through the Diablo Scholarship program (she was awarded a Diablo Scholarship in 1969), the Concord Jazz Festival 50th Anniversary celebration and as Grand Marshal for Concord’s 2019 Independence Day parade.

Birsan, from page 6

safety technology such as drones and license plate readers continues to be welcomed. Staff reminded us that we have additional nearly classic goals to carry over, namely:

• Base redevelopment.

• The two-year budget cycle that starts this July.

• The Housing Element.

Plus, what is described as a heavy lift: the entire rework of the city’s enterprise software program across all departments. (I love computers; it’s software I hate.)

Also important is economic development to attract more jobs and industries to the city, which leads to a Tier 2 goal to review the policy on street vendors that are having a negative impact on retail grocers, particularly in the Monument Corridor.

Finally, the council brought up climate change issues as a focus point. In discussion, we found out that we were not fully aware of the things that the city staff has already done. We have requested an update on this, so we can pass it on

Ellen was a kind, thoughtful and loving wife to Jerry, mom to Joy (Corey Dziech), sister to Kathy (Jim Cerenio), grammy to Fenna (Henderson) and friend to so many (essentially everyone she ever met). She was preceded in death by her parents, Paul and Barbara Findlay.

While Ellen valiantly and aggressively fought cancer for 21 years, she still lived in each moment, enjoying every experience fully. As a daughter, wife, mom, teacher and more, Ellen showed us all how to enjoy life and be better people.

A Celebration of Life is planned for this spring.

to you all and add to it.

One of the points raised was that we are spending a lot of effort fixing our roads, but we are converting more to electric vehicles as part of the clean air effort. However, an all-electric bus weighs eight times more than a gasoline bus – leading to more road damage.

Setting goals, like so much in life, is a delicate balancing act that we look forward to accomplishing.

Send comments and questions to EdiBirsan@gmail.com.

Get your garden on at these beautiful Clayton homes

The 32nd Clayton Gardens Tour promises a captivating array of five distinct gardens, each offering its own unique charm and beauty.

The Clayton Historical Society’s highly anticipated 32nd event takes place Friday and Saturday, May 17-18.

The society is currently seeking volunteers to serve as docents, providing assistance and guidance to visitors at garden locations. Those interested in enjoying some time outdoors amidst picturesque landscapes can contact JoAnn Caspar at 925-567-6079 or Joan Bergum at 925-672-4597.

Proceeds from the tour will support the Clayton Museum, a registered 501(c)(3) organization. The museum, which operates independently of govern-

ment funding, relies heavily on donations and the annual Gardens Tour fundraiser to sustain operations.

Tickets for the tour are available for purchase online at www.claytonhistory.org for $40.

Tickets can also be obtained at R&M Pool, Patio & Gardens, 6780 Marsh Creek Road, Clayton, or by sending a check to Clayton Museum, P.O. Box 94, Clayton CA 94517.

Choir, from page 1

friendships I gained and the memories I made. Winning was the cherry on top.”

ENERGETICADVISOR

Grimesey calls Emigh “a woman of many talents,” noting she has a Grammy, teaches at Diablo Valley College and also directs the Piedmont Boys Choir.

Emigh has been at CVCHS for 25 years and is larger than life to her students.

“The kids love her,” says Grimesey. “They all want to go eat lunch in a room because it’s such a welcoming space for everyone.”

Emigh is confident in herself and her students.

“This is not my first rodeo,” she muses. “Although we’re a very small program, we perform with a lot of energy and emotional commitment to the music.”

The feeling of love and

respect goes both ways, with Emigh praising Grimesey’s daughter. “Addison is just the most phenomenal student choreographer I’ve had in my 25 years, and she did amazing things with the Show Choir.”

Addison won the highest honor, the Maestro Award, as did Alexandra Ovalle from Women’s Ensemble. Only five students received the prize.

TEACHING TOWARD THEFUTURE

Emigh says the students have to trust her completely, including her musical selections and leadership. In a good-natured way, she stipulates, “It isn’t a democracy.”

However, it is a cohesive and highly functional group.

“I would say that the more mature, experienced kids really lead the younger,” Emigh says. “There’s a sort of a mentoring to a mentee program, so there’s a lot of good student

On the day of the tour, tickets will be available for purchase at the Clayton Museum for $45.

leadership within the group.”

Emigh’s philosophy centers on teaching students how to comport themselves in professional arts institutions, setting the tone for how they’ll approach college interviews and their creative careers.

“I definitely believe in creating a positive space where kids bring their energy,” says Emigh. “But I also feel very strongly about teaching them the formal behavior that’s needed in a performance, and I think that’s something they carry into every discipline. And sometimes that’s overlooked.”

While showing them “how to carry themselves at gigs and various performances in front of a crowd,” she corrects behavior but never shames students for it. She balances that safe space with an imperative to get kids out of their comfort zone.

“I’ve tried to have a lot of really dynamic activities that make the kids really want to be present in the music.”

Visitors will find creative displays during the Clayton Gardens Tour May 17-18.

Questions – like flowers –abound this time of year

NICOLE HACKETT

Spring is in full swing at the nursery, leading to lots of questions.

What could be eating my new veggie and herb installs?

Why are my lemon leaves so yellow? The best bee-friendly plants to grow in full sun? Groundcover ideas that tolerate foot traffic? Flower that bloom all summer in containers?

Let me provide some answers.

Young, tender shoots of veggie starts and herbs are a favorite of a couple popular pests. The pincher bug, aka earwig, is the most common. This nighttime feasting culprit can take down a cucumber or squash by daylight.

Sluggo Plus has been proven to eliminate the problem organically. It’s made from iron sulfate and Spinosad. Both ingredients are registered for use in our vegetable gardens. Sprinkle a few pellets around new installations. A little Sluggo Plus goes a long way. Reapply every 7-10 days until your plants are of substantial size.

Lemon trees may experience yellow leaves during the spring, because the plants are stressed from the fruit they are maturing and the flowers they are about to get. Young to adolescent citrus trees are very demanding. They are using lots of energy, and we need to provide extra nutrients to these plants so they can give fruit to us.

Lavender, nepeta and salvia mixed together is one of the prettiest summer combinations and the bees love it.

A lemon tree with lots of bright yellow leaves lacks nitrogen. Nitrogen is the first number on a fertilizer label. A plant’s size will give you guidance for the dose of fertilizer. A lemon tree with light yellow leaves and green veins needs iron. Water-in granular iron. Liquid iron is less potent and you’ll need another application after a month or so. We need bees and, thankfully, so many of us are interested in planting flowers for the bees. Nepeta is a huge family of sunloving, low-water perennials with a flower that a honeybee cannot resist. The great thing about nepeta is that there is a size plant for any application. Most nepeta has periwinkle-colored flowers on gray foliage.

Rosemary is also very bee friendly. Grow in containers to control its size. Rudbeckia, echinacea and sedum all have easily accessed pollen, which is perfect for bees. All salvia and lavender are favorites of bees once they’re blooming.

As more and more folks replace their lawns, they desire low-growing plant material that can tolerate traffic. Dymondia hit the scene more than a decade ago, and it is a proven favorite for this type of application. Dymondia grows nearly flat with gray, blade-shaped

leaves with white undersides. Thyme is another good choice. Myoporum is a great consideration in a less walked upon area. Green stems with tiny green leaves spread by one root upward of 4-5 feet wide.

Containers need to be interesting looking all season long. With proper water and fertilizer, there are a few plants that can keep you in flowers from now through September. Salvia Mystic Spires, Alstroemeria Indian Summer, Moonshine Yarrow, Agastache Coral and Salvia Wendy’s Wish are some of the most bloomtastic plants you can use.

Looking for cascading perennials? Million Bells are absolutely one of the best colorful families of cascading perennials. A couple years ago, they mixed Million Bells with an everyday petunia and created petchoa, which is super fabulous too. Verbena, bacopa and ivy geranium are all also exceptional cascading perennials. If you care for these plants, they will reward you.

Spring is here, and the weather has been perfect. Let’s all get gardening.

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

GARDEN GIRL

Clayton mail carrier goes the extra mile in this daring rescue

It was a regular day, just a regular day,” Jack Roy says of the time he averted disaster.

Roy was on his mail route in Clayton when he saw a UPS truck veering off toward someone’s front yard. The driver passed out and was foaming at the mouth at the wheel.

Roy slammed his mail truck to a halt and began to sprint. He jumped into the UPS truck and figured out how to put it in park. He then made sure the driver got medical attention, saving her life.

“So it’s still rolling. I jumped in, and her whole body had fallen over to the side,” Roy recalls, adding: “It hit the curve, and that’s when her body dumped over.”

He had to think quickly.

“I stirred the wheel so if I couldn’t stop it, it wouldn’t hit the house,” he says.

Thankfully, Roy was able to locate the emergency brake in a split second and stopped the UPS truck in its tracks.

Another good Samaritan came by and the two worked together.

“He helped me get her upright,” Roy says, “and then

we called the paramedics, and that was it.” The woman driving the UPS truck survived the 2023 incident.

Roy runs professional races, most notably the 7.4-mile Dipsea Race in Marin County.

“I’ve been doing it for 12 years. I was training, so I had a little speed – maybe not a lot of speed for an old man, but I credited that for helping me get there in time,” says Roy, a goodnatured and jovial man who tells his stories with a laugh, even at his own expense.

Being a hero is not new to Roy. Years ago as a postal worker in Hayward, he came across a truck driver crushed under his truck. “I didn’t know what to do,” Roy shares, “so I saw a little old garage, and I ran toward it. And there was one of those floor jacks, which I’d never used before.”

At first, it didn’t move. “I turned the handle, and luckily it started working,” he recalls. Roy

jacked up the truck and pulled the man out.

Roy believes it is only good luck that allowed him to save the day more than once. He also calls it “something everyone would do” if they had the chance.

He takes pride in his job

With springtime comes foxtails in our region.

They are all around us – just waiting to dry out enough to go up a dog’s nose, in its eyes, ears, mouth or myriad other orifices. Female dogs can have foxtails climb into their vaginal area, and male dogs get them inside the prepuce (the fleshy coating over the penis).

We see them much less commonly in cats, because dogs are more likely to have their feet, faces and bodies in dry grasses. Pastured horses and other livestock who graze on dried grasses can get them under the eyelids as well as buried along their gumline.

and in being a member of the community. The Clayton resident loves to put mail directly in the hands of elderly couples to save them a trip to the mailbox and also knocks on the door to go the extra step and handdeliver a package.

On the day of this inter-

view, he was sorting his mail for the day with the other carriers. They were laughing loudly, sounding like a family at dinner. “Probably the best part of the day is talking with these guys and joking with your coworkers,” he says.

Avoid foxtails – but also recognize these signs of exposure

ing a foot, shaking an ear or coughing because the foxtail got inhaled into the lung. Sometimes, foxtails even make their own hole by burrowing in between the toes or in matted fur, etc.

Foxtails can be quite a problem in California, causing anything from a big, uncomfortable nuisance to a deadly source of abscesses, pneumonia and other infections.

Since they are shaped like an arrow with extra barbs, they can only travel one direction: deeper into the opening or burrowing through soft tissue.

But what to do to prevent foxtails from causing these problems? Keeping dogs out of dry grassy fields with foxtails is the most logical option.

Foxtails, also known as plant awns, are the seed head of different grasses one finds in dry environments like we have. Several of these seeds look like a fox’s tail. Others grow more like a single section of that foxtail. When foxtails dry out, each individual section separates. Usually, a single piece enters an animal’s body. Occasionally, owners get lucky and catch it before the foxtail gets in too far, but more often you don’t even realize your pet has one until they are sneezing violently, lick-

If this is not possible, placing a mask over the dog’s face, such as an “Outfox” mask, is a great way to help prevent a dog from sniffing one up the nose, inhaling it through the mouth, or getting one in an ear or eye. You will still need to check between the toes, as well as in their fur in general.

If you suspect that your pet might have a foxtail, you are likely destined for a veterinary visit. Your pet may need sedation or anesthesia so the vet can look for the foxtail, as well as simple yet specialized (and sterile) equipment to find and remove foxtails.

It is ideal to have a vet see your pet right away to maximize the opportunity to find a foxtail in an expedient manner. If you wait, the foxtail may travel deeper into the body. Sometimes this can lead to serious damage and the need for much more specialized equipment and potentially surgery to locate and remove the foreign material.

Foxtails can travel a great distance inside the body, making them hard to find and remove. They do not break down on their own, unfortunately.

They also tend to cause growth of a specific bacteria called Actinomyces. Sometimes owners are unaware that a foxtail is traveling in the pet, but a vet will find abscessed/diseased tissue. This clues us in to keep looking for the offending foxtail, following a culture that shows this specific bacteria.

The pet will typically receive an appropriate antibiotic, but the foxtail will ultimately need to be located and removed for full healing.

As you can see, avoidance would be much easier than dealing with the aftermath of these little pesky plants, but in California, easier said than done.

Micki McCabe is a Clayton resident and retired veterinarian. Email questions and comments to drmccabevet@gmail.com

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Clayton mail carrier Jack Roy enjoys hand-delivering the mail.

SPORTS & LIFESTYLE

Concord’s Peyton Omania seeks Team USA berth at Greco Roman Wrestling Olympic Trials this weekend

De La Salle wrestling legend Peyton Omania of Concord faces a tough task this weekend in State College, PA when he seeks to earn the coveted Team USA berth at the United State Olympic Trials for Greco Roman wrestling. Omania is in the 67 kilograms (147.7 pounds) weight class, which is considered the most competitive of the six weight classes at the Trials with three former Olympians plus Omania, who represented the country at the 2021 World

Championships, in the field of 11 wrestlers.

On Friday, 10 wrestlers will compete in the double-elimination Challenge Tournament. The winner of that grueling all-day competition will return on Saturday for the best of three Championship Series against 2023 Senior National champion and 2020 US Olympian Alejandro Sancho. Sancho earned his bye to the Championship Series by rallying to defeat Omania 7-6 in the Senior Nationals final match last December. Omania led 5-0 and had an apparent pin that wasn’t given before the Concord wrestler was

outscored by Sancho.

After Senior Nationals, Sancho represented the US at the Pan American Olympic Qualifier in Mexico. He lost in the semi-finals so America has yet to qualify at 67 kg for the Paris Games.

The Trials winner from this weekend will compete in Istanbul, Turkey next month needing to place top three at the final World Olympic Games Qualifier in order to get a berth in Paris for him and the USA.

The US men’s Greco Roman team has already qualified in three of the six weight classes for Paris.

The stacked field in the 67

kg Olympic Trials features:

2020 Olympic Team member – Alejandro Sancho (U.S. Army WCAP)

2021 World Team member

– Peyton Omania (New York AC/Michigan WC)

2019 World Team member; 2012 Olympian – Ellis Coleman (U.S. Army WCAP)

2023 World Team member

63 kg– Xavier Johnson (U.S. Army WCAP)

2018 World Team member

63 kg; 2016 Olympian – Jesse Thielke (U.S. Army WCAP)

2023 Bill Farrell runner-up –Justus Scott (U.S. Army WCAP)

Kohler, from page 1 See

meters then extended her advantage to just over four seconds at the halfway point. Kohler continued to increase her lead over the back half of the 2000-meter race to earn her spot in Paris. Fellows finished second, clocking an 8:10.68, while Cicely Madden took third.

“It’s a relief,” Kohler said. “There was a lot of stress leading up to that race because you’ve got to be on for that one race. It’s a dream come true to go to the Olympics again. I’m pumped.”

The Clayton Valley High and Cal Berkeley graduate won all three of her races at the Trials by comfortable margins. This was

in stark contrast to her results at the USRowing Winter Speed Order in February.

Kohler says she had a “nonrowing elbow injury” that kept her out of the water for a large part of December and January. As one of the rowers who had already qualified for the Trials, she then spent three more weeks out of the water at indoor altitude training before the Winter Speed competition.

Fellows was the fastest single sculler in the Winter Speed Order A final while Kohler was 10 seconds slower in the B final. Kohler made her first Olympic team in 2012, winning a bronze medal as part of the

women’s quadruple sculls. She switched to the single following the disappointment of not being selected for a boat at the 2016 Rio Olympics.

SWITCHES TO SINGLESCULLS

In 2017 the Clayton athlete began competing in single sculls where her selection to US international teams would be predicated on her results rather than other measurements USRowing might use to pick spots on pair, quad and eight’s boats. Kohler has dominated the single sculls in America since, including being named USRowing 2019 Female Athlete of the Year. She won the Tokyo Olympic Trials but was a disappointing ninth at the Games, which were

held without spectators in 2021 after the Pandemic. Problems early in her races derailed her medal hopes in Tokyo.

Kohler visited her Clayton home last week before returning to New Jersey to the US Rowing Training Center with the rest of the Olympic rowing team. Also, among those training there is her boyfriend Kevin Cardno, a member of the men’s quadruple sculls.

Her next competition is at World Cup II in Switzerland May 24-26. That competition will be preceded by a training camp in Italy, where the American team will also train immediately before the Olympics. Kohler explains the July camp will enable the athletes to fully acclimate to the time change before going to Paris.

Rowing at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games in the Vairessur-Marne Nautical Stadium will take place July 27-Aug. 3. The single sculls medal races are on Aug. 3. Kohler has never been to France so the venue will be new to her.

She told The Pioneer how the sound at her London Olympics races was “deafening” and she hasn’t felt anything like that since after not competing in Rio and having no spectators at Tokyo. She’s anticipating an atmosphere much closer to London this summer.

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Photo courtesy Omania family Concord’s Peyton Omania will look to have his arm raised during this week’s United States Olympic Greco Roman Wrestling Olympic Trials at Penn State University. The De La Salle High legend is in the toughest weight class with three former Olympians among the challengers.

Photo by row2K

Kara Kohler dominated the single sculls at Olympic trials.

Athlete Spotlight

Jerry Coakley

Grade: Senior

School: Clayton Valley Charter High Sport: Baseball

Following his coaching father and grandfather at Clayton Valley Charter High School carries a lot of weight, but Jerry Coakley has hit it out of the park. Ever since he was five, Coakley has played baseball on Clayton Valley Little League teams, traveling teams and this past summer the West Coast Kings of the Bay Area Collegiate League. On the Ugly Eagles varsity baseball team for the fourth spring coached by his dad, Coakley hopes to lead his team back to the North Coast Section championship game they played last year after winning the Diablo Athletic League championship.

In describing Coakley, assistant coach Jesse Medrano says, “He is a student athlete who puts the work in on the field, in the weight room, in the classroom, at home and in the community. As a coach you can appreciate the players who have the first to arrive and last to leave mentality. Jerry embodies that. The care he has in the program and putting the work in is truly something special. It has been quite the journey over these past four years and more, and I can honestly say Jerry is one of a kind.”

Adds another CVCHS baseball coach, Herc Pardi, said, “Jerry Coakley is one of the best team players due to his leadership, hard work and totally supporting his teammates as well as being a twotime all-DAL performer.”

Besides his all-league and NCS Student Athlete awards, off the diamond Coakley spends his free time playing basketball and maintaining a 3.8 GPA. He is a member of the National Honor Society and the CBCA volunteer and ambassador program. Coakley looks ahead to continuing his pursuit of baseball and academics at William Jessup University in Rocklin next fall. There, he hopes to major in kinesiology to one day start his own coaching career. Carrying on his grandfather’s and father’s name, Coakley hopes to give back to the community in the same way those before him did.

CVCHS student journalist Corinne Jeandheur wrote this Spotlight.

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

Do you know a young athlete who should be recognized? Perhaps he or she has shown exceptionalsportsmanship. Send your nomination for the Pioneer Athlete Spotlight today to sports@pioneerpublishers.com.

Spring sports league schedules finishing with post-season competitions looming

It’s a race to gain high league placings and a spot in North Coast Section post-season competition for spring sports teams and individual athletes as the late April calendar is dotted with league championships and NCS play dates.

The weather gods have been more cooperative than last spring as the outdoor sports try to complete their full season schedules on time.

Local baseball and softball teams are the last to get into post-season play. Six-time defending NCS baseball champions De La Salle have lost three one-run games in the first part of the season and are competing in a powerhouse East Bay Athletic League that has three of the top four ranked NCS teams.

College Park is No. 7 in NCS rankings with a 9-5 record. Their Diablo Athletic league rivals Clayton Valley Charter, last year’s Section runners-up, are right around the .500 mark with league play just getting going.

Northgate (9-4-1 overall) is off to a 5-0 start in DAL softball. College Park at 6-3 and Concord 7-5 are the only other local schools with winning records so far.

Clayton Valley Charter took third at the 2023 NCS stunt championships with this year’s event coming up next weekend April 26-27.

One of the best stories this school year is the Mt. Diablo High School boys golf team.

Coach Mark Mooney formed the team, the first time the Concord school has had a golf team since 1978 when the program was dropped in the wake of Proposition 13 passing.

Mooney reached out to First Tee executive director Jamie Maddox at Diablo Creek Golf Course who supplied team members (made up entirely of first-time golfers) with clubs.

The Red Devils team includes, from left, Gabriel Rabun-Llamas, Kymani Fano, Santino

Arcenio Esquivel, Frederick Corpuz, Taishaun Glover, Aidan VanHoose, Jayshon Victory, manager Brinna Bernal Santiago and coach Mooney.

NorCal Championships May

Apr. 29 (Paradise Valley)

EBAL League Championships

The Spartans have won the last three NCS lacrosse titles and are 5-0 in EBAL play and 11-5 overall. Northgate boys are 10-1 overall and 3-0 in early DAL action.

In girls LAX, College Park is 5-0 in league and 9-4 overall while Carondelet is 4-1 in the EBAL with a 7-7 season mark.

SPRING SPORTS POST-SEASON SCHEDULES

Badminton

EBAL Tournament May 4

NCS Championships May 11 (Newark Memorial HS, Newark)

Northgate (24-2), Clayton Valley Charter (16-2) and defending NCS champions De La Salle (25-8) are all enjoying strong boys volleyball campaigns.

18 (Independence HS, San Jose)

Baseball

EBAL League Tournament

Week of May 6

NCS Championships May 1425

NorCal Championships May 28-June 1

Competitive Cheer (Stunt)

EBAL League Championship

Apr. 23

NCS Championships Apr. 2627

CIF NorCal Invitational Championships May 10-11

Golf (Boys)

DAL League Championships

Apr. 29

NCS Division II Championships May 6 (Peacock Gap)

NCS Division I Championships

May 13

NorCal Championships May 20 (Berkeley CC)

CIF State Championships May 29 (San Gabriel CC)

Lacrosse (Boys & Girls)

NCS Playoffs Apr. 30-May 9

Softball

EBAL Championships Week of May 6

NCS Playoffs May 14-25

NorCal Championships May 28-June 1

Aquanuts win 19th National championship

Walnut Creek Aquanuts junior and senior swimmers traveled to Houston last weekend for the AWD Invitational National and Junior Championship and came away with a 19th artistic swimming national team championship while winning eight gold, two silver and three bronze medals.

The WCA junior team (1518 year-olds) was led by repeat high point winner Dalia Ovadia who captured seven gold medals at Nationals. Ovadia won junior gold medals in solo free and tech plus duet tech and duet free with Yanna Hauck.

Aquanuts coach Tammy McGregor was honored as Junior National Coach of the Year.

Ana Martinez won gold in the senior solo freestyle event and took silver for her senior solo tech routine.

Aquanut junior teams were first and fifth in the team freestyle event and first and sixth in the tech competition. In the acrobatic routine they were first and sixth.

Emma Moore took silver

and Ghizal Akbar fourth in the solo free. Moore was third and Karen Xue fourth in solo tech.

In junior duet free and tech events Akbar and Morgan Woelfel of Concord and Carondelet High School were third and Moore and Xue fourth for WCA.

Also competing for the WCA junior teams were Ayla O’Neil of Pleasant Hill and College Park High and Concord’s Elena Griffin of Northgate.

Last month the Aquanuts took four youth (ages 13-15) and junior teams to the West Zone Championships in Mesa, AZ where they qualified all but one routine entered for the Junior and Youth National Championship events. In the Junior and Senior events, WCA took gold in all eight events entered, dominating the field.

In addition, junior head coach McGregor was named the U.S. Junior National team head coach and her assistant will be WCA assistant coach Young Shin Woo.

Ten WCA 10 athletes will travel to Houston for the U.S. Youth National Championships and Youth National Team Trials

April 24-28. Youth Athletes competing in Houston include Kaylee Wang and Vienna Mangan-Coloma of Pleasant Hill and Concord’s Chloe Nicholas and Sasha Qualk.

On May 11 WCA holds its Celebration of Champions Show and Auction at Clarke Swim Center in Walnut Creek. The U.S. Olympic Artistic Swimming Team will perform their Olympic routine at the event. The Aquanuts will also be hosting the Western Regional Championships at Clarke Swim Center the following weekend, May 18-19. Athletes from all over Northern California will compete to qualify for the Junior Olympics at the end of June in Portland.

Photo courtesy Mt. Diablo High School Athletics

JAY BEDECARRÉ The Pioneer

Photo courtesy Walnut Creek Aquanuts

Aquanuts duet Morgan Woelfel (left) and Ghizal Akbar.

JAY BEDECARRÉ The Pioneer

College Park High tabs NCS winning coach Jack Schram to lead football

It is quite rare for a high school coach to be relieved of their duties days after winning a Section title, but that is what happened to Jack Schram last December after his Miramonte High football team won the North Coast Section Division 5 championship. Schram had just completed his 13th year as head coach of his hometown Mats (18 years on the varsity coaching staff) by winning a second NCS championship when principal Ben Campopiano informed him the Orinda school wanted to “go in a different direction” with its football program. The beneficiary of this unusual situation is College

Park, which recently hired Schram to lead Falcons football. The 61-year-old Schram will begin his 37th year coaching high school football during spring practice next month at the Pleasant Hill school.

He will be the Falcons third head coach in as many years (and fourth in five years). Casey Moreno was let go by College Park recently after just one year in charge and is now head coach at St. Mary’s-Berkeley. Schram says he’s known Moreno for many years going back to when each was coaching football at Alameda County schools.

His release from Miramonte caught Schram completely off guard. He asked the principal if there were any issues with his coaching and was told “no issues.”

American Olympian Shannon Rowbury mentored prep runners at Concord High

The Paris Olympics are less than 100 days away and dozens of Bay Area high school runners got the rare opportunity to train for two days earlier this month at Concord High with three-time Olympian Shannon Rowbury. The American record holder in the 1500 and 5000 meters, Rowbury presented the Imagining More Running Camp with several guest speakers covering sports psychology, college recruiting, motivational techniques and injury prevention in addition to workouts on the school’s track. The camp was arranged by Concord High’s cross country and track coach Lanette Stanziano.

Omania, from page B1

2023 Senior Nationals 3rd place – Robert Perez III (Sunkist Kids WC)

2023 Senior Nationals 4th place – David Stepanian (New York AC)

2024 Armed Forces GrecoRoman champion - Peter Ogunsanya (U.S. Army WCAP)

2024 Armed Forces GrecoRoman runner-up 72 kgCapt. Jamel Johnson (USMC)

2024 Final Olympic Trials Qualifier champion – Duncan Nelson (Illinois)

MICHIGAN STATE ALUM

Omania competed collegiately for Michigan State. He graduated last May and trained this week with his college coaches before heading to the Trials. His Michigan State coach Roger Chandler once said, “You can identify it pretty quickly, even as an average spectator, when someone steps out on the mat and they are truly enjoying their time and enjoying their moment. That’s Peyton. The lights come on and Peyton shows up.”

The 24-year-old Concord wrestler will have family and

Sports Shorts

NEW MT. DIABLO MUSTANG SOCCER COMPETITIVEPROGRAM ANNOUNCED

Mt. Diablo Soccer, a long-time AYSO recreational program in the Concord-Clayton area, last month announced an affiliation with Danville-based Mustang Soccer for a new AYSO Player Pathway competitive club level program in AYSO Area 2C that will play in NorCal Premier Soccer leagues. The program is open to girls and boys 7-19 years. MDSA AYSO recreational programs remain unchanged. Mt. Diablo Mustang tryouts for players born in 2011-2017 will be held the week of May 6 and tryouts for players born 2006-2010 will be the week of May 20. Visit mtdiablomustangsoccer.com for more info and tryout registration.

FLAG FOOTBALLCAMPAT CVCHS JUNE 24-26

Be Elite 3-Day Summer Youth Camp at Clayton Valley Charter High School on June 24-26, 9 a.m. to noon daily, is designed to provide youth (K-7th grade) with an immersive, fun flag football experience to enhance skills and learn new techniques. Camp includes skill-building drills, team-building exercises, friendly scrimmages and coaching from CVCHS student-athletes. Open to girls and boys of all skill levels from beginners to experienced athletes. For more info and to register visit beeliteathlete.com/summer-camps.

The school’s press release said, “we bid a fond farewell to Coach Jack Schram.” Campopiano said Schram’s “dedication and leadership have laid a strong foundation for the future of Miramonte football. Winning two NCS Championships and guiding the program so successfully for over a decade is truly a remarkable coaching achievement.”

High schools in the Lamorinda area have a reputation for terminating successful coaches for no apparent reason. The blame for these unlikely coaching changes is often rumored to revolve around parental pressure placed on school officials. Miramonte also recently released its varsity boys basketball coach Chris Lavdiotis after he had guided his team to the NCS playoff semifinals. Schram had his first visit to the Pleasant Hill campus in his new capacity during spring break when he watched a JV baseball game.

Last week he completed the paperwork and fingerprinting necessary to officially be hired.

C OACHINGSTAFFFORMING

Some of his assistant coaches are following Schram from Miramonte to College Park but he is still in the process of filling out the staff for the CPHS varsity, JV and frosh teams.

Simply from looking on paper at last fall’s College Park football teams Schram says it appears the Falcons will have two dozen or so returning varsity players as well as over 60 combined players from the 2023 JV and frosh teams.

After the official spring practices in May, College Park summer workouts will begin following final exams and graduation. Like all North Coast Section schools, the official start for fall season practice is Aug. 12 with the Falcons kicking off their

See Schram, page B4

Spring, from page B2

Swimming & Diving (Boys & Girls)

DAL JV Invitational Meet Apr. 27

DAL League Championships

Apr. 25-27 (Campolindo High)

EBAL League Championships

Apr. 26-27

NCS Diving Championships

May 1 (Concord Community Pool)

NCS Championship Meet

May 3-4 (Concord Community Pool)

State Championship Meet

May 9-11 (Clovis Olympic Swim Complex)

Tennis (Boys)

DAL Tournament Apr. 24-26

EBAL Tournament Apr. 25-27

NCS Singles/Doubles Championships May 3-4

NCS Team Championships May 17-18

friends rooting for him at the Trials on the Penn State University campus. His dad Jason says it isn’t easy getting to remote State College as the local entourage will mostly make three-hour car rides from Pittsburgh, Philadelphia or Baltimore airports to Penn State.

MISSEDHISCOACH

Omania’s first Olympic Trials in 2021 came soon after his coach and mentor Mark Halvorson died suddenly. He had guided Omania through his wrestling career starting at the Community Youth Center in Concord and then at De La Salle where the pair achieved

NorCal Team Championships

May 16-20 (Broadstone Sports Club, Folsom)

State Team Championships

May 25 (Fresno Pacific University)

Track & Field (Boys & Girls)

DAL League Championship

Meet Apr. 27 and May 4

EBAL Championships May 34

NCS Tri-Valley Area Meet May 11 (Pittsburg HS)

NCS Meet of Champions May 17-18 (Dublin HS)

CIF State Meet May 24-25 (Veterans Memorial Stadium, Clovis)

Volleyball (Boys)

EBAL Playoffs Apr. 25-27

NCS Playoffs Apr. 30-May 9

NorCal Championships May 14-18

the school’s first-ever CIF State championship in 2018 when the four-time league and three-time NCS champion was seeded No. 1 at 145 pounds and backed up that ranking by getting to the top of the podium after winning his last two matches in hair-raising fashion. The death of Halvorson hit Omania hard and his results that year suffered as he had two defeats in the Big Ten Championships, the NCAA Championships and at the Olympic Trials, where his top eight finish was obviously not good enough to earn the berth in Tokyo that went to Sancho. He upset the seeding charts later that year to win Senior

RED DEVIL GOLF CLASSICSET FOR JUNE 28

The Red Devil Golf Committee announced its annual fundraising tournament will be Friday, June 28, at Diablo Creek Golf Course in Concord. Registration starts at 11 a.m., followed by lunch, golf, dinner and raffle/silent auction. Proceeds help academic and athletic programs at Mt. Diablo High School. Interested participants should contact Lou Adamo by phone (925) 212-9332 or email louadamo@gmail.com and Rudy Perez (925) 408-6790 or Rudyperezrdc@gmail.com.

DIABLO VALLEY FC SOCCER TRYOUTS IN MAY

Diablo Valley FC will hold its annual tryouts for boys and girls in the U8 to u19 age groups next month. The area’s premier competitive youth soccer program participates in Development Player League, National Premier Leagues, MLS NEXT, Elite Academy and NorCal Premier. Tryouts will be held the weeks of May 6 and May 20. Visit diablovalleyfc.com for more info and tryout registration.

CONCORD CUPSOCCERREGISTRATION OPEN

Registration is open for Concord Cup XXIX youth soccer tournament on May 18-19 for girls and boys 10U through 19U teams from AYSO, US Club Soccer and US Youth Soccer programs. Teams in bronze through silver divisions are invited to participate in the 29th edition of the area’s largest tournament. Team and referee applications are available at concordcup.com.

CLAYTON SHARPSHOOTERCOMPETING IN

Jackson Ramirez of Clayton won the Elks Hoop Shoot Western Regional championship in Nevada in late February by sink-

Athlete Spotlight

Nathan Leffel

Grade: Senior School: College Park High

Sport: Baseball

Coach Andy Tarpley has written Leffel’s name on his lineup card in the second or third spot in the batting order for the past three seasons. Last year his performance earned him secondteam all-Diablo Athletic League honors as a third baseman. During his sophomore season Leffel won the “Rising Falcon” team award and followed that up last spring as the College Park “Silver Slugger” for the team’s best hitter. His coach says the versatile Leffel “can legitimately play all nine positions on the field, including catcher.”

“Nate is as competitive of a young man as anyone I’ve ever coached. He hates losing even more than he loves winning and he grinds away at all facets associated with the game. He found the weight room consistently last fall, which has added strength and stamina to the already exceptionally skilled player that he is.”

Although not in Tarpley’s pre-season plans, he has used the senior righthander more often as a pitcher after two teammates were shelved by injuries.

“The added bulk and strength that he’s acquired

Nationals and qualify for the World Championships beating Thielke in the semi-finals and Sancho in the best of three finals.

Including the 2021 World Championships Omania has represented the USA five times in international compe-

in his senior year has made him a great option to take the mound for us. Nathan competes on the mound and understands the duel involved with every hitter he faces. He’s a strike thrower with three pitches,” the coach said. He has 31 strikeouts and a 0.3 ERA in 23 innings this season. His lefthanded batting at the top of the order continues strong with a .370 batting average and .434 OBP. Leffel has played club baseball for the Concord Patriots, North Coast Reds, Diablo Valley Oaks and Zoots Baseball.

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

Do you know a young athlete who should be recognized? Perhaps he or she has shown exceptional sportsmanship, remarkable improvement or great heart for the sport. Send your nomination for the Pioneer Athlete Spotlight today to sports@pioneerpublishers.com.

tition. He won bronze at the 2019 World Junior Championships and that same year also claimed the 67 kg spot on the U23 Greco-Roman World Team. Omania was a Junior World Team member in 2018, as well as on the 2016 Cadet World Team.

ing all 25 free throws. The Clayton sharpshooter heads to the Chicago area this weekend for a chance at a second National title before aging out of the competition. Ramirez makes 600 free throws a day in preparation for Nationals, which he won in a pandemic-mandated virtual competition in 2021.

LOCALRECREATIONSWIMTEAMSTAKINGSIGNUPS

The summer recreation swim season is just around the corner. To sign up for local teams visit their website:

Bishop Estates bishopestates.swimtopia.com

Dana Hills danahillsotters.com

Forest Park forestparkpool.net

Gehringer Park gomotionapp.com/team/recgpg/page/home

Oakhurst Orcas oakhurstorcas.com

Springwood springwoodswim.swimtopia.com

Vista Diablo Dolphins vddst.swimtopia.com

Walnut Country walnutcountry.swimtopia.com

Ygnacio Wood teamunify.com/team/reccvywst/page/home

TERRAPINS SWIM TEAM OFFERING

SPRING, SUMMER PROGRAMS

Terrapins Swim Club has a spring Orange program for swimmers six years and older who have completed advanced swim lessons and are interested in learning about the swim team experience. The spring program runs three days a week at Concord Community Pool through June 7. The USA Swimming team is also offering stroke and racing skills clinics for three age groups fron 8 and under through 11 and over in June and July. For more info and to register for Terrapins swim programs visit terrapinswim.com.

Photo courtesy Concord High Athletics

Q. We are new to our neighborhood and first-time homeowners. People here are pretty close-knit, but we have recently been having issues with our neighbors. The problem is they are seniors and everyone here treats them like they can do no wrong. Any suggestions on how we can address our issues without offending the entire neighborhood?

A. First, congratulations on purchasing your first home. It’s great that you’re reaching out for advice on navigating a tricky situation. It’s not uncommon to encounter challenges when settling into a new community, especially when dynamics are as close-knit as yours seem to be.

Keys to successful resolution with neighbors

Your concern about addressing issues with a senior neighbor while maintaining harmony in the neighborhood is valid. It can be delicate when the community holds a collective reverence for someone, making it seem like they can do no wrong. However, it’s essential to remember that everyone deserves to feel comfortable and respected in their home, regardless of age or status.

Here are some suggestions on how to approach this situation with tact and consideration:

Open dialogue. Start by having a private and respectful conversation with your neighbor. Approach them with kindness and express your concerns calmly and directly. Avoid accusations or confrontational language. Instead, focus on finding common ground and mutually beneficial solutions.

Engage a community liaison. Consider reaching out to a trusted member of the community who has a good relationship with your neighbor. This person can act as a mediator or liaison, helping to facilitate communication and

bridge any gaps between you and your neighbor. They can offer support and guidance while ensuring that the conversation remains respectful and productive.

Empathy and understanding. Keep in mind that your neighbor may not be aware of the impact of their actions. They may be struggling with health issues or facing challenges of their own. Approach the situation with empathy and understanding, trying to see things from their perspective.

Build relationships. Take the time to get to know other neighbors in the community.

Strengthening connections can help create a support network and foster a sense of unity. When addressing issues with your neighbor, having the support of other community members can make the process smoother. Focus on solutions, not blame. Instead of assigning fault, prioritize finding answers that benefit everyone involved. Collaborate with your neighbor and other community members to brainstorm ideas and implement changes that address the issues at hand while preserving peace in the neighborhood.

Lead by example. Be a positive role model in the community by demonstrating patience, understanding and respect toward your neighbor, even during challenging times. Your actions can set the tone for how conflicts are handled within the neighborhood.

Seek community input. Consider bringing up the issue in a community meeting or through a neighborhood forum. Encourage open and honest communication, working together as a community to find a resolution that respects everyone’s needs and concerns.

Building a strong sense of community requires effort, patience and understanding from all parties involved. By approaching the situation with empathy, open-mindedness, and a commitment to finding common ground, you can navigate this challenge while preserving the harmony and unity of your neighborhood. Be well; you are worthy.

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

Sierras provide backdrop for compelling paranormal adventure

Preserving your mental health in today’s workplace

Work, American style, has undergone a sea change in the last few years.

The pandemic essentially wiped out the traditional framework of “the workplace” and necessitated the building of a new one –quickly. The revelation that the performance of a job may have little or nothing to do with the worker’s physical location shocked employers and employees alike. The post-COVID landscape is dramatically different from the era ending in 2019. There are hybrid workers, remote workers and those who follow the traditional “off to work” model. Many of the last group re-entered the workplace having spent the pandemic working either remotely or hybrid.

What has all this done to the psyche of the American workforce? It appears it has turned us into what used to be somewhat callously referred to as “nervous wrecks.”

Dr. Richard Chaifetz, founder and CEO of ComPsych, a group which provides mental health services to corporate clients, states: “As a society, we’re notably more anxious now than we were just five years ago, and it’s not shocking considering current world events: from the lasting impacts of COVID-19 to civil unrest, an increasingly polarized political landscape, global turmoil, the border crisis and rising crime, the proliferation of AI and an unpredictable economy – there are so many macro issues impacting people’s mental health in addition to interpersonal and personal situations.” Chaifetz currently has no shortage of work. According

to the 2024 Workplace Mental Health Poll conducted by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), 52% of employees experienced burnout in the past year and 37% reported feeling so overwhelmed it affected job performance.

Employees at both the “experienced” and “manager” levels appear more susceptible than those at the entry level, with 54% of the former reporting burnout as opposed to 40% of the latter.

The survey also found that approximately 1 in 4 employees are dissatisfied with the culture of their workplaces and a full 92% say mental health coverage is vital to building a functional workplace culture.

American workers’ focus on improving mental health in the post-COVID era appears to have resulted in an increased willingness to share details of mental health struggles. The NAMI report found that 74% of full-time employees now believe it is appropriate to discuss mental health concerns at work, but only 58% say they are at ease offering such details in the workplace.

With all this turmoil, how can we work (in some permutation or another) and stay sane? The most important rule is to maintain some worklife balance.

Those who work remotely may find that the line between work and life can blur, but it is important to draw it and hold firm. Take time for self-care, doing things that make you happy and bring satisfaction.

Develop a personalized practice to manage stress and anxiety. Meditation is great for some and torture for others. Find what works for you (walking, knitting, ax throwing), then make the time to do it.

And, of course, reach out for help if you become overwhelmed and unable to cope.

For local options, visit ccclib.org and search the site for mental health resources.

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

We think nothing of hindsight, but what of foresight?

In “Sierra Blue,” Suzanne Morgan Williams has written a splendid story of a young girl’s strange ability to see the auras of both animals and humans. Tied to this pseudo-scientific attribute is the fate of a seriously injured thoroughbred filly named Sierra Blue.

In addition to auras, Magic Kendall’s “gift” often includes foreboding visions or feelings. I’m not a fan of paranormal novels, but “Sierra Blue” may change that.

Like most 14-year-olds,

“My computer will last forever,” said no one, ever (except in jest). There comes a time in everyone’s life when the lovefest with an old computer is over. The thought of learning the new version of the Windows operating system, transferring data and apps from your old pal to a new one and making decisions on what to buy can make one apprehensive. Relax, nothing a few thousand bucks won’t solve. Of course, my dig isn’t so funny. So I’ll offer a few tips on how to make a sensible migration to a new computer.

First and foremost, define and understand what you do with your computer – its scope or purpose. For example, is it an accounting machine, a general-purpose surf the web tool, a graphics, photo or engineering system, or perhaps a game box?

Your definition, goal and purpose of the computer is primary in your thinking, so keep it in mind as you consider hardware options. Spending money on extras you will never use won’t be

Magic wants to be a popular student not a freak. She is not comfortable with the colors she sees or how they tell her what an animal is feeling. She knows nobody else sees what she does.

She no longer tries to convince her parents, and only when she is 8 does her best friend Celine guess about the colors. “Don’t tell anyone. They’ll think you’re crazy,” Celine says.

Years later, at a slumber party, Celine tells of Magic’s seeing colors that enable her to communicate with animals. Before the semester is over, Magic is teased unmercifully by everyone at school. She will never be popular, have a boyfriend or be as pretty as the other girls.

Keeping secrets is hard, but so is feeling empathy for a self-centered, mouthy teen. But changes come when she goes to Aunt Leah’s small California horse ranch east of the Sierras. Ibis Springs is only slightly smaller than its nearby town of Willow Bridge and nothing like her hometown of Tillamook, Ore.

Leah, who is recovering

from a shoulder injury, is happy for Magic’s help. There is barn cleaning, tack maintenance and preparing the horses for handicap riding lessons. Competing with Magic’s desire to hide her visions are the obligations to others that her time at Leah’s ranch demands.

On the day Leah is expecting the arrival of a thoroughbred filly she is to train for racing, a severe storm turns into rain and snow – causing the truck and trailer hauling the filly to crash. Both pickup and horse trailer are down an embankment. The first to arrive at the scene is Magic, who had been caught in the storm while riding a bike.

The rescue scene is spectacular and, from there, the novel takes off in every direction. What will it take to save the filly? How much will Magic be a part of that?

What effect do the riders with disabilities have on Magic? Will she stay at Leah’s longer than planned?

Williams moves her story at break-neck speeds, with a few stops, then at it again. I

can’t say more without a spoiler. It is enough to know that I read the book twice.

I’m not sure I’m ready for more paranormal novels, but I am going to keep my eye out for the Kentucky Derby and every single horse event that can be seen at this year’s Olympic Games.

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

Evaluate your needs before migrating to new computer

helpful, so don’t be afraid to stress the importance of your scope to your computer vendor.

Secondly, consider the age of your software. As technology moves ever forward, many applications become obsolete, discontinued or need an upgrade. There are many reasons for software changes, and most of them are over lack of user support, i.e., no one buys it, and security concerns. Perhaps when the software was introduced, there weren’t as many worries over security as in today’s environment.

In general, software that is more than 5 years old will likely need replacement. The choice will be to buy it again, subscribe to it through a managed service provider (MSP) or go DYI (do it yourself) and you become the manager. SAS, or software as a service (subscription), is becoming very popular because software updates and maintenance issues are done for you.

Once you have defined your hardware and software needs, consider how much you intend to expand the duties of the new computer. In other words, will you need more power, storage or performance soon (a year or less)?

If you have a LAN (local

area network), two or more computers that communicate or share files, there will be a few days of downtime while the new system is configured. Plan to employ your existing legacy “quick boot” devices (also known as a pen and paper) to record changes while you are waiting for the new systems to be operational. Go old school.

Now you are ready to migrate. Consult with local computer professionals for help, advice and purchase options. I don’t recommend

migrating on your own or jumping on Amazon and choosing hardware or software without assistance. The migration process has become very technical, and help is always appreciated.

Now, go do the right thing, and migrate. William

Schram, from page B2

season the last weekend of August at San Marin, which defeated Schram’s Miramonte team for the 2022 NCS title and has won two CIF State titles this decade. The Diablo Athletic League reorganized its football divisions and scheduling after Clayton Valley Charter was moved back to the DAL for the first time since 2018. College Park is grouped with Alhambra, Benicia and Northgate in the Valley Division. In order to fill those school’s 10-game schedules they will play against two DAL Foothill schools, which will be considered non-league games. One of those nonleague games on Oct. 4 is College Park at Miramonte. The Falcons final regular-season game will be part of the DAL Foothill vs. Mountain division matchups.

Last year’s College Park team was 4-6 overall and 1-5 in DAL Foothill play. They are in NCS Division II this season. The Falcons’ two most recent playoff appearances were in 2022 (D-III) and 2017 (D-II). Miramonte competed in Division V at NCS while winning the championship last fall. His 2013 Mats team were D-II Section champions.

DOMINIQUE KING LEANIN WITH LOVE

SUNNY SOLOMON BOOKIN’ WITH SUNNY

NATHALIE MONTIJO NEW WAVE NIGHTINGALE

WILL CLANEY TECH TALK

THE ARTS

Dueling priests, scandalous letters and the candy man

Can a young upstart teach an older, settled priest some new tricks? Playwright Bill C. Davis certainly thinks so in his comedy-drama “Mass Appeal.”

The show features Jess Rodgers as the firebrand seminarian challenging the Catholic Church’s stance on several topics, including the ordination of women. Jerry Motta portrays Father Tim Farley, a popular pastor who prefers keeping his parishioners happy rather than questioning the church’s teachings.

Produced by Plotline Theater Company, Randy Anger directs. “This is a very funny yet compassionate play, and I’m grateful to have two good actors who take direction but have wonderful ideas of their own,” Anger said.

It runs May 3-19 at the Campbell Theater, 636 Ward St., Martinez. For tickets, go to campbelltheatercompany.com.

“Speak every single word

of the text” is the mantra for Word for Word, a theater company that brilliantly brings short stories to life. I’ve seen several of their productions and am always amazed at how captivating they are. The San Francisco company journeys to Lafayette’s Town Hall Theatre, 3535 School St., at 7 p.m. April 23 with its “Off the Page” staged reading series. The performance features Kevin Barry’s “The Coast of Leitrim,” a modern romance about an Irish man smitten with a young Polish woman.

After the reading, the audience can talk with the company and give feedback as the production moves on to its next stage. For more information, go to townhalltheatre.com.

Synergy Theater announces its most shocking and scandalous show to date with its latest comedy improvisation. “My Dearest Love, An Improvised Series of Scandalous Letters and Dangerous Liaisons” takes place through April 28 at Walnut Creek’s Lesher Center, 1601 Civic Dr. “The entire show,” said

artistic director Kenn Adams, “is presented as a series of letters between the main characters as they do in the famous French epistolary novel, ‘Dangerous Liaisons.’ In each scene, the person writing the letter serves as the narrator, while the rest of the cast improvises the action and dialogue. Then, whoever received that letter writes the next letter to somebody else. And, letter by letter, we build the show.” For tickets, call 925-9437469 or go to www.lesherartscenter.org.

Did you know ticket holders for performances at the Lesher Center also receive free admission to the award-winning Bedford Gallery? The gallery has so many fascinating displays to enjoy before a performance at the center. On view through June 23 is “Re-Discovering Native America: Stories in Motion with the Red Road Project.” The project highlights inspiring stories of contemporary Indigenous people through photographs and 3D artwork. “The red road” is a symbolic expression in many Native communities for living purposefully on a path of positive change. For more information, go to bedfordgallery.org.

Chocolate lovers everywhere won’t want to miss a trip to the mysterious chocolate factory with Pittsburg Theatre Company’s “Willy Wonka.” The Roald Dahl-

‘Curious’ artist moves beyond the brush as writer, musician

It’s difficult to describe Jennifer Granat. She is an artist who likes to paint landscapes in which lighting carries a mysterious and moody feeling, and to sketch with bold, sweeping lines a nude figure from a live model.

But more than an artist, she is an accomplished writer in poetry, flash fiction and short stories, as well as coauthor of a recently completed novel. She’s also a musician who plays piano and guitar and is turning a stage play she wrote into a musical.

I discovered Granat through her art. Many of her paintings tell a story, and when you discover that story, it adds another dimension to what you see. Take her painting “Babaylan.” The woman in the painting is a Filipino friend of Granat’s. The flower in her hair is the national flower of the Philippines. The clouds on the earth depict Super Typhoon Haiyan of 2013 that destroyed much of the Philippine Islands.

Granat says that the piece is about global warming. She learned a lot about the culture when she painted it.

In her landscape paintings, not only is there a sense of a story, but Granat has been able to capture a nocturnal mood. “One thing I like a lot is to make things look really mysterious in moonlight,” says Granat.

When viewing the “Nocturne” series, you get a mysterious feeling of expectation along with the peaceful quietness that one often experiences when daylight fades to dusk.

Granat expresses some disappointment when discussing her figurative drawings, because she wishes there were local venues willing to exhibit the nudes. Her drawings of live models are often in charcoal or pastels. She uses colors to set a mood and adds a few simple strokes that evoke a familiar gesture or a remembered pose. It is a fun challenge for Granat to translate some of her more gestural pieces into abstract figures. Granat took advantage of local community colleges to took as many art and music classes as she could, including art history, color theory, design, drawing, painting and figure drawing. “I’m just a very curious person,” Granat shares. “So I basically have these de facto degrees in art and music.”

Granat enjoys writing as much as she does painting. She recently co-authored a

murder mystery novel with seven other writers from the Mt. Diablo Branch of the California Writers Club. Granat also created the cover illustration for “Passage to Murder,” which is set in San Francisco.

As with contributing writing and art to the novel, it should come as no surprise that Granat’s various disciplines connect and influence each other. One example is the upcoming multimedia exhibit “Ekphrasis,” offered by the Lamorinda Art Alliance (LAA), which features two of her poems and one of her paintings.

The musical Granat is creating started with a paint theme. She explains this intertwining of her art, writing and music in the evolution of the musical: “I started writing poems about color, and the color orange turned into a

based musical runs April 26May 5 at the California Theatre, 351 Railroad Ave., Pittsburg. Go to pittsburgcommunitytheatre.org for tickets.

For classical music lovers, Pacific Chamber Orchestra presents Max Bruch’s “Violin Concerto #1 in G minor” with violinist Livia Sohn, Felix Mendelssohn’s “Symphony #3 ‘Scottish’ ” and Fanny Mendelssohn’s “Overture for Orchestra” at 7:30 p.m. April 27 at the Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian Church, 49 Knox Dr., Lafayette. For tickets, visit pacificchambercrchestra.org.

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

Special needs friends reunite over aRt

Three boys with special needs, Inti, Sebastian, and Marcus, have found themselves reunited at the aRt Cottage, a local art center, where they each independently enrolled in art classes. Their chance meeting at the cottage, a total surprise and coincidence, has led to a heartwarming friendship bonded over a shared love for art.

Despite joining the art classes at different times, the boys knew each other from before, adding a delightful twist to their reunion. Now, gathered around a table, they are joyfully creating art, each with his unique perspective and special developmental challenges.

Their current project involves exploring the theme of water, aiming for a chance to be featured in the prestigious Contra Costa Water District Calendar for 2025. This annual contest, eagerly anticipated by aRt Cottage students, selects 12 winners whose art-

work will grace the calendar’s pages.

For these boys, this opportunity is more than just a competition; it’s a chance to showcase their creativity and talent to the world. Marcus, one of the participants, confidently proclaimed, “It was easy, I’m a genius!” when asked about his artwork, reflecting the newfound confidence and self-assurance nurtured by the art classes.

The aRt Cottage holds a special place for these children, offering them a space to freely express themselves and build confidence in their abilities. Beyond being students, they are seen as art magicians, weaving their creativity into every stroke of the brush and every sketch on the paper.

As the boys eagerly await the results of the contest, their journey at the aRt Cottage has already painted a beautiful picture of friendship, creativity, and the transformative power of art.

hilarious stage play.” Then her musical side stepped in and she thought, “Why not put it to music.” Granat is not concerned about establishing a unique style. Her hope is that she can provide people with visual enjoyment. She would like to “engage the viewer and for the image to be pleasing in terms of color and composition. It’s all about feeling.”

View some of Granat’s artwork at jennifergranat.com and on Instagram @granatjennifer. “Ekphrasis” runs April 29-June 28 at the Orinda Library.

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

John Grubka

From left: Inti, Sebastian, fRogard Schmidt, and Marcus (blond crew cut ) only top of head showing.

Jennifer Granat likes to paint landscapes in which lighting carries a mysterious and moody feeling.

Photo by Julie Stein Lynn Shields is among the talented improv artists creating Synergy Theater’s most scandalous show yet, “My Dearest Love,” running through April 28 in Walnut Creek.

Photo Courtesy of Pacific Chamber Orchestra

Livia Sohn is the guest soloist with the Pacific Chamber Orchestra on April 27 at the Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian Church.

Granat’s new musical all started with the color orange.

SALLY HOGARTY STAGE STRUCK

JOHN NAKANISHI ARTSIN MOTION

We’re a third of the way into 2024, and we already have a bunch of great new local music. Allow me to put a handful of recently released albums and EPs from Bay Area artists on your radar.

“Daybreak” by Skinny Hendrixx. This is the debut hip hop album from lyricist and vocalist Jesse Ray, aka “Skinny Henrdixx.” Chockfull of guest rappers, singers and producers, “Daybreak” pays homage to Ray’s roots as a fan of early ’90s rap, employing wordplay, picturepainting, storytelling and the advanced lyrical techniques for which the emcee era was known. Ray explains this all comes from his affinity for the “underground” hip hop era: “There was a subculture of hip hop that was antimainstream and was focused on content. It was all about the message and quality writing. I believe in my message and want it to be heard and understood, more than wanting it to sound cool.” Skinny Hendrixx will be performing with his band the Earthtones on April 20 at Vinnie’s Bar &

Grill for the Planting Seeds’ 25th Anniversary Show and 4/20 Celebration. “Here It Is” by Tay & the JangLahDahs. You won’t catch me trying to pin a genre label to Tay & the JangLahDahs, especially after spending time with their delightful new album. The opener, “Enthusiastic Insanity,” feels like an alternative rock song with elements of prog. It’s immediately followed by the whimsically paced “Fire! Pt. 1,” which at times sounds like something you’d hear in a zany 1940s radio ad. The nine-track “Here It Is” offers elements

of jazz, country and swing, with some trippy soundscapes.

Across the 44-minute journey, expect to hear horns, violin, banjo, ukulele, synthesizers and guitars, often waltzing along as songwriter Tay Robin sings of dystopia and hope. Tay & the JangLahDahs will be performing April 26 at Kilowatt Bar in San Francisco.

“Chika Di” by Chika Di. No stranger to this column, Concord’s own Diana Trujillo has released a number of fun and inspiring singles under the name Chika Di over the last few years – enjoying plenty of success with each. In February, the Colombian-born singer-songwriter released her first full-length album. It offers 10 richly produced songs that blend different styles of Latin pop with traditional Cumbia to produce irresistible rhythms, memorable melodies and all-around good vibes. Catch Chika Di performing with her band at a Cinco de Mayo food fest on May 5 at Ohlone College Newark Center. “S/T” by Still Ruins. There’s a new new wave rolling

through the Bay, and fans of post punk, dream pop and shoegaze are here for it. No matter what word salad you choose to describe the genre, the Oakland trio Still Ruins demonstrates how to indulge in the nostalgic sounds taste-

fully on their debut EP. With its shimmering guitar tones, gently moaned male vocals with celestial reverb and signature keyboard voices of the era, any of the four songs on “S/T” could slip right into the score of some of your

favorite ’80 films. Still Ruins will play May 16 at the Elbo Room Jack London in Oakland.

“hole” by Mathew Antony. Sometimes the best way to convey what you’re feeling is without saying anything at all. On the new EP from San Francisco pianist Mathew Antony, we get four short, sweet instrumentals performed with no accompaniment. Something about the way the performance is captured – maybe the placement of the microphone(s), the production work afterward or perhaps it’s just a very nice piano being played – but there’s a pillowy softness that makes the soothing 11 minutes of tranquil music that more sedative. For that reason, I’d say “hole” might connect with fans of ambient music as much as it might with fans of solo piano work. Find more recent releases from Bay Area artists at ConcordRockCity.com.

Contact Dave Hughes at MrDaveHughes@gmail.com.

Zio Fraedos: Italian classics at night, breakfast fare come dawn

For almost half a century, Zio Fraedos restaurant in Pleasant Hill has stood out as being one of the best purveyors of gourmet cuisine around.

Tony LoForte Sr. and his partner Fred Rapisardo founded the business in 1975. The pair endeavored to operate a North Beach style Italian eatery, combined with elegant dining found at long ago Continental cuisine favorites Doro’s and the Blue Fox. This explains the presence of such delicacies as Veal Oskar (topped with Dungeness crab, asparagus and bearnaise sauce) and Tournados of Beef (mashed potatoes and crostini served with a couple of small filet mignons).

Everything shows an attention to detail. While most restaurants are content to use store-bought croutons on their Caesar salad, Zio Fraedos makes their own Parmesan creation. The same goes for their chunky blue cheese dressing and creamed horseradish sauce.

The vision of Zio Fraedos is a place where people – from families to large gatherings –can share a good meal. After 25 years in business, LoForte (who bought out his partner) decided to build a larger facility on land he owned adjacent to the original building.

Tony Jr. acted as general

contractor during construction. When the new restaurant was complete, he became a partner in the business. This includes banquet facilities that can accommodate up to 300 guests.

Later on, Tony Jr. moved his wife’s popular breakfast spot over to Zio Fraedos. Sherry’s Place is open for breakfast and lunch, serving omelets, eggs Benedict, waffles and assorted lunch favorites.

When having lunch there recently, I was treated to an Angus burger served rare with housemade potato salad. Another time, I enjoyed a French dip sandwich featuring thin prime rib meat dipped in au jus. It reminded me of the dish made famous at the old Hungry Hunters in Concord and Lafayette.

As expected, dinners have been Zio Fraedos’ calling card for the past 50 years. Things begin with impressive appetizers, including Cherrystone clams, bruschetta and a garlic prawn sauté.

For larger groups, Zio’s Platter includes fried calamari, chicken wings and their famous fried ravioli. For an eclectic experience, they are known to serve Sherry’s mom’s delicious lumpia to begin a meal.

Salads are always great at Zio Fraedos. Their prawn Louie features 16-20 charbroiled shrimp. I seem to always order their Mediterranean, adorned with kalamata olives, cucumbers, red onion, tomatoes and crumbled feta cheese, tossed in a balsamic

vinaigrette. My one guilty pleasure is adding a side of anchovies to accompany the leafy offerings.

Diners can split their famous pasta dishes or order as a main course. This is where the Italian side of the restaurant shines – from spaghetti with meatballs marinara to fettuccine Alfredo. I have always liked their linguini and clams made perfectly to order.

On the beef side of the menu, they’re known for the veal entrees. “We order the best quality meats possible,” Tony Jr. says. “I would rather reduce our profits or raise prices than skimp on providing the best ingredients.”

This philosophy is reflected in such mainstays as veal piccata, Parmigiana, Milanese and Marsala. Most of these dishes are also available substituting chicken.

Prime rib is popular, avail-

able in limited quantities on weekends. Also noteworthy are pan-seared petrale and their famous Bang Bang Hawaiian shrimp. They offer seafood specials provided by local boats docked in Vallejo, where Zio Fraedos has a second location. Dessert is not to be missed. Guests can easily share the homemade tiramisu and creme brulee. They also offer a well-rounded wine list along with a full-service bar. Zio Fraedos is at 611 Gregory Lane in Pleasant Hill. Reservations are recommended for weekend dining at 925933-9091. For more information and hours, visit ziofraedos.com.

Rich Eber