FEB 14 The Pioneer 2020 by Pioneer Publishers

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East Bay Regional Parks Activity Guide February 14, 2020

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Firefighters, paramedics on quest to teach students CPR TAMARA STEINER The Pioneer

MDUSD high school students may be one key to doubling the survival rate of heart attack victims. Contra Costa County Fire Protection District firefighters and American Medical Response paramedics are on a mission to train 10,000 high school students countywide how to do Hands-Only CPR. So far, this academic year, an estimated 2000 students have completed the hour-long training. Firefighters and paramedics in teams of two and three meet with small groups of students, each with their own mannequin. Students learn where to apply chest compression and how fast to repeat as team leaders count off the rhythm. The key is to move fast,” AMR paramedic Anna Cleese explained to the students. “Every minute a sudden cardiac victim goes without CPR, their chances of survival drop by 8-10 percent.” Tamara Steiner/The Pioneer The seniors are loving the Students at Mt. Diablo High learn proper Hands Only CPR techinque from American Medical Response parafast moving, interactive session, medics during an hour-long class Jan. 24. The sessions are part of a county-wide initative to train 10,000 students. The training can be directly linked to doubling the survival rate of heart attack victims in other areas of See CPR, page 2 the country.

Ghaznawi celebrated as Concord PD’s best

Concord Mayor Tim McGallian presents Cpl. Murtazah Ghaznawi with a proclamation as Police Officer of the Year.

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Calling him “a true protector of the people and a friend to all,” the Kiwanis Club of Concord named Cpl. Murtazah Ghaznawi as the 2019 Police Officer of the Year. Ghaznawi was born and raised in Concord, graduating from Ygnacio Valley High School. He always had a dream of making a difference in his community and knew that the best way would be to pursue a career in law enforcement. He was a police intern at the Concord Police Department for two years before being sworn in as a full-time

officer. One of his favorite assignments was as a school resource officer at Ygnacio Valley, where he connected with students and staff to make a making meaningful differences in their lives. This year, leaders in Concord’s Afghan community reached out to the Police Department for assistance during Ramadan. Ghaznawi acted as the liaison, facilitating extra patrols during evening prayers and checking in periodically to make sure their needs were met. Ghaznawi oversees the California Office of Traffic

Safety grant for the department. He manages and coordinates several impaired driving operations as well as other enforcement operations to help make our streets safer. He provides morning and afternoon traffic enforcement at local elementary schools when his schedule allows and is always the first to volunteer for events that educate children on traffic safety. He knows the positive impact that law enforcement had on him as a child, and his mission is to do the same for today’s youth.

Musicians, freelancers see livelihood threatened by new state law BEV BRITTON The Pioneer

To comply with California’s new “gig” law, Solo Opera founder Sylvia Amorino is pitching in her own money to save the upcoming production. “The dilemma is we are already locked into our August show, ‘Scalia/Ginsburg,’ with theater, publisher, grantors and performer contracts,” said Amorino, artistic director of the Concord-based troupe. “There is no turning back.” The Assembly bill, which went into effect Jan. 1, makes it harder to label workers as independent contractors. Initially targeted at companies like Uber and Lyft, AB5 is having dire consequences for small businesses, non-profit groups and their freelance workers. The law uses an “ABC” test for workers to determine worker status: A. They perform tasks under a company’s control. B. Their work is integral to the company’s business. C. They do not have independent enterprises in that trade. If they meet any of the above tests, these workers are now deemed employees entitled to benefits such as minimum wage, workers’ compensation, unemployment insurance, expense reimbursements, and paid sick and family leave. Employers must also pay half of the employees’ Social Security tax. Because the law could cost employers an estimated 30 percent more, many companies are no longer using the contractors – leaving workers out in the cold. MANY GROUPS SEEKING EXEMPTIONS

Sponsored by Lorena Gonzalez, D-San Diego, the new law exempts dozens of professions – from doctors and lawyers to commercial fisherman and manicurists. Truck drivers won a temporary injunction in January, but freelance journalists failed to

See AB5, page 3

New plan will protect open space near Clayton

Save Mount Diablo (SMD) and the Concord Mt. Diablo Trail Ride Association (CMDTRA) have signed an option agreement to work to permanently protect about 154 acres east of Clayton. The site is one of the most strategic and important properties remaining on Mount Diablo’s main peaks. It stretches across the north face of North Peak from the pastoral Three Spring area almost to the spectacular Falls Trail, including beautiful Cardinet Oaks and upper Young Canyon. The $50,000 option payment, signed on Dec. 31, gives the land conservation organization two years to raise more than $1,040,000 to purchase a perpetual conservation ease-

ment on the open space. CMDTRA will keep about 47 acres where its buildings are located. The association will retain ownership of all the land and continue to manage it. However, the conservation easement will permanently limit the property’s uses and extinguish any development rights. “This property has been a high priority for us since 1971,” said Ted Clement, executive director of SMD. “We give a standing ovation to the Concord Mt. Diablo Trail Ride Association for giving us an opportunity to permanently protect another important section of Mount Diablo. “Mount Diablo has been a

See SMD, page 5

The red area shows the approximate boundary of the perpetual conservation easement that Save Mount Diablo plans to acquire from the Concord Mt. Diablo Trail Ride Association. The trail group will retain the smaller portion below the red area.

Postal Customer ECRWSS PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID CLAYTON, CA 94517 PERMIT 190

Cities support shared regional approach to serve homeless Page 2

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TRYING NEW APPROACHES McGallian cited various funding streams that the city will continue to draw from to address homeless issues, knowing it has a bearing on achieving priorities in areas such as development. He pointed to Community Development Block Grants, with $100,000 deployed to

David Scholz

An encampment on private land under Highway 4 near the Concord Shelter along Arnold Industrial Way.

community service organizations, like the Monument Crisis Center, to help serve the homeless population. Funds from the Pleasant Hill-Concord Health Care District are another source the city can push into services such as improving the effectiveness of the CORE (Coordinated Outreach, Referral, Engagement) teams. An additional area of interest is expanding not only beds but storage in shelter facilities. McGallian noted one of the reasons the homeless are resistant to leaving the streets to tap the available resources is there is no place to put their stuff. “We are trying all we can to get them off the streets and get them to accept the services that are being provided,” said McGallian. “The services are out there, but we have to get people to take them,” he added. “So right now,

we are trying to deploy the resources to right places.” Buckshi says a multifaceted, proactive approach is making a difference in Walnut Creek. Steps include developers bringing hundreds of low-income units online, like the St. Paul Commons that serves those on the brink of homeless or already there; St. John Vianney Church providing safe parking zones to those with vehicles and funding for the Trinity Center; and two dedicated, specially trained police officers who are forging relationships with the homeless as part of HOT (Homeless Outreach Team). Along with the joint effort with Concord to fund a CORE team, Walnut Creek is developing a mutual aid program with neighboring Pleasant Hill and Martinez to take on cases that don’t require 911. When one community’s team is out on a

and serious in their small groups, intent on getting it right. At the end of the class, students receive a certificate of completion. The program is modeled after a similar one in Kings

County, Washington, where the training is mandatory. “Seattle has doubled the survival rate for sudden cardiac victims,” Hill said. When the CPR sessions were complete, students regrouped for additional instruction on how to apply a tourniquet and other first aid responses.

CPR, from page 1

said Con Fire Public Information Officer, Steve Hill. At Mt. Diablo High, one senior was overheard entering the gym, “We’re going to learn how to save a life today.” The students were focused

his fellow officials, noting it will bringing them to the people who take varied resources, shared need them,” said Kogler. strategies and a multi-dimen“This is not an enforcement sional team approach to address issue,” he added. “We want to the steadily changing needs of take a firm and fair approach HOMELESS DRAWN TO this population. with this population, and we are MARTINEZ “Our job is to make sure we working with our partners who As the county seat, Martinez are making the most efficient have the resources.” is home to the regional hospital use of the resources, and we are center and county welfare offices. Those services make the community attractive to the homeless population, with an increasing visibility along Martinez’s waterfront park area, pubAlong with its impact on the quality of life in Concord and lic spaces around the city, and on county property adjacent to surrounding communities, homelessness is taking its toll on the environment. municipal land. And the price tag is only going to increase. To that end, a portion of the Public works, maintenance and city officials unanimously $3.2 million generated by voteragreed that hundreds of thousands of dollars that is normally approved Measure X, a one-half percent sales tax, is supporting committed to planned projects is increasingly being siphoned local homeless efforts. This off to clean up the debris and remnants left behind by individuals who illegally live on public and private property throughincludes funding a member of the Martinez Police Department out the area. Martinez Mayor Rob Schroder said Public Works is comdedicated to directly working with the homeless to get them mitting “quite a bit” to cleaning both city and county lands. “This is dangerous work,” he said, citing the potential harm services, as well as the county’s from waste like used needles. CORE team. Public Works teams up with contractors like Servpro to do Martinez Mayor Rob Schroeder also lauded the Bay cleanups, and the city recently spent $10,000 to clean up Church’s mobile shower unit. In encampments along the Martinez waterfront. Schroder expects recent months, it has been in the $60,000-100,000 will likely be needed annually going forward. overflow lot across from the “I don’t see (the problem) getting better.” Schroder believes the proactive steps are essential for tackAmtrak station to provide a chance to wash up and get clean ling the problem. “It’s certainly part of our budget, and it will continue to clothes. be,” he said, adding: “It definitely takes away from other quality He said the city is going to look for temporary safe places of life expenditures that we could be making.” Concord Public Works director Justin Ezell said two fullfor those living in cars or RVs as the occupants seek and obtain time employees head cleanup efforts, which are bolstered by use of a SWAP (Sheriff Work Alternative Program) team of permanent housing. Capt. Greg Kogler of the individuals who are working off fines or court-ordered public Pleasant Hill Police Department service sentences. While acknowledging the importance of getting services to shares sentiments expressed by those in need, Ezell grizzled at the thought of fewer taxpayer dollars available for the betterment of quality of life issues. The program trains an aver“Maintaining parks and providing program for kids and age of 500 students per day in seniors – all of those resources could be much better used several sessions. So far, students than basically picking up after others,” Ezell said. at Mt. Diablo High, Ygnacio David Nichols, acting maintenance superintendent in Valley High and Concord High Pleasant Hill, concurred and put it in terms of dollars and have completed the training. cents. He noted that $800 per week for salary and benefit For more information on the costs is going toward cleanup from transients, and he believes Con Fire-AMR training, contact that money could be better spent improving the quality of Steve Hill, 925.941.3000 x 1203. life for all residents. – David Scholz Or email steve.hill@cccfpd.org. call and not available to help a homeless person with mental health issues, personnel from another city provide support.

DAVID SCHOLZ Correspondent

Homelessness knows no boundaries, and Concord and its neighboring communities recognize no entity can act alone to address the issue. Regular dialogues to share ideas complement individual efforts as officials try to stay ahead of problems. Concord draws a great number of this migratory population because the city has the most services. Going forward, one of Mayor Tim McGallian’s objectives is to make clear to those at the county, state and federal levels that Concord can’t be the lone stakeholder shouldering this burden. “We have to build out services regionally,” he said, pointing to conversations about adding a shelter in Antioch. Walnut Creek city manager Dan Buckshi echoed this viewpoint. He sees the additional East County shelter as relieving the pressure in Central County as homeless move from one area to another.

February 14, 2020

Clean up hard on environment and costly for public works

Dressage trainer rises above tragedy and finds new love

February 14, 2020

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neighbor who was a riding instructor. “The neighbor told my When she was seven, Elena mom the first day that I had a Flaharty fell hopelessly and forreal ability.” ever in love. She doesn’t rememLooking for a healthy sumber his name. mer activity, her mother signed He was a horse—a champiElena up for lessons, setting her on, she recalls. He belonged to a on a path that 30 years later TAMARA STEINER The Pioneer

Elena Flaharty on Charly at the California Dressage Federation Championships in Ranch Murieta in Sept. 2018. The pair won the championship in freestyle.

AB5, from page 1

get a waiver on the limit of 35 “content submissions” a year. U.S. District Judge Philip Gutierrez in Los Angeles said the journalists waited too long to challenge the restrictions, but he said he will take more time to consider their objections. Uber and Postmates have filed a lawsuit and are joining companies like Lyft and DoorDash in donating to an initiative proposed for the November ballot that would keep drivers and couriers as independent contractors while allowing them to

receive some benefits. Roxanne Pardi, co-founder of the Clayton Theatre Company, is hopeful about a petition from Theatre Bay Area that has more than 70,000 signatures asking for non-profit theater companies to be exempt. Meanwhile, Pardi is proceeding with the opening of “The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940” on March 19. “We’re all just kind of going by the skin of our teeth and going ahead with the spring show,” she said, adding: “I don’t think they

Page 3

would find her and her partner, a German Sporthorse named Charly, in Lexington, Kentucky with a fistful of ribbons. Flaharty grew up in San Ramon where she always had at least one horse. In 2003, she graduated from UC San Diego with a BA in political science. After college she worked as a deputy sheriff until an injury sidelined her. Switching careers, she went to work in Human Resources for Chevron. But her heart was always in the barn. In 2006, she acquired Lola as a search and rescue horse. When Lola got hurt, Flaharty used dressage as rehabilitation therapy for the mare. Lola turned out to be very talented. Flaharty and Lola competed locally doing very well garnering multiple end awards regionally and nationally. Dressage, derived from the French word for “training,” is an equestrian sport which showcases its highest levels at the Olympics every four years. But its basic and introductory levels are beneficial to all horses and riders. Changes in pace and direction communicated by almost imperceptible signals from the rider, and harmony and balance are paramount. To the layperson, it’s like watching an equine “Dancing with the

Stars.” Flaharty’s dream was coming closer. Finally, in 2014, the time was right. Flaharty and her parents Cora and Bob Flaharty moved to their ranch on Morgan Territory Road, and Elena launched Rise Above Equestrian. She retired from Chevron and threw herself full time into raising, training and showing. Lola’s offspring Clayton achieved national recognition at age 5, very young for a dressage horse, which typically doesn’t reach prime performance age until 10 or 11. Flaharty’s dream was coming closer. In 2016, a mare named Tessa captured Flaharty’s attention. Tessa was already trained to the intermediate level (just one level below the top of the sport), but her career was faltering. It seems she had a bit of a reputation. No one could stay on her back. No one that is, until Flaharty. “I got her because she bucked everyone else off,” she laughed. The two were magic. “Tessa was my love. She taught me.” Together, they reached the Grand Prix level, the top of the sport, taking silver and gold medals along the way. Life was good. Then it all ended one nightmare morning in December

2017 when Flaharty found Tessa in the paddock with a mysteriously shattered front leg. There was no saving her. “I was devastated,” Flaharty said. “She was at the top of her game.” Grief moved in where Tessa used to live. With a broken heart, Flaharty went through the motions for the next year and a half. “I couldn’t even think about getting another horse. Then in 2018 a friend in Florida told her about Charly. He was special; big, tenderhearted, and very sensitive. He needed a skilled handler and her friend thought Flaharty would be the one. Still not sure she was ready she flew to Florida. Her friend was right. The connection was immediate. “He was a familiar soul whom I immediately trusted and recognized,” Flaharty said. “I have to be very careful with him. He gets his feelings hurt easily, then shuts down.” But the trust was mutual, and Charly bloomed. In their short year and a half together, the partnership has rocked, competing both statewide and nationally, winning the division Freestyle at the California Regional Dressage Championships in Rancho

thought through the ramifications for anyone who gets a 1099.” About 350 people rallied in Sacramento on Jan. 28 led by Assemblyman Keven Kiley, a Republican who is co-authoring AB1928 to freeze portions of AB5. Amorino said Republicans, Democrats and Independents were “all fighting for the same thing” at the Capitol gathering. “AB5 is an economic issue, not a partisan one,” she said. Support for AB5 was mainly along party lines, and Assemblyman Tim Grayson, D-Concord, was among those voting yes. Grayson’s office did not respond

to a request for comment.

the film industry – and even a postpartum doula and lactation educator. Haana, a music producer, said the law “will be the death of the music industry in CA.” Jennifer, a freelance American Sign Language interpreter, said AB5 “would cause serious harm to the provision of interpretation and translation services to deaf individuals.” Renee, a small business owner in the entertainment transcription field, summed up the issue by saying: “The law is causing chaos, grief, fear and anger in the CA freelance community.” The issue also has national

TELLING THEIR STORIES

Amorino said the protest was a venue to “get the word out and bring attention to AB5.” People are discussing the issue en masse on the Facebook site Freelancers Against AB5, and Kiley has an online compilation from “gig economy” workers who have been negatively impacted. Contributors include bloggers, freelance writers and photographers, translators and sign language interpreters, occupational and massage therapists, medical transcribers and court reporters, musicians and those in

Elena Flaharty and Charly snuggle after a workout

Murieta last September. In November, the pair made the four-day journey to Lexington to ride in the US Dressage Federation’s 2019 Finals where they finished with a very respectable third place in freestyle. Next month, they will be back in Rancho Murieta for the Golden State Dressage competition. The national recognition has given Rise Above Equestrians a needed boost, and Flaharty continues to add new clients to her growing business. Though Tessa still takes up a big space in her heart, Elena Flaharty is once again excited for the future. For more photos and information, visit riseaboveequestrian.com. implications, with the U.S. House of Representatives passing the Protecting the Right to Organize Act on Feb. 6. The bill would allow more contractors to be given the status of employees for the purposes of union organizing. However, the Republican-controlled Senate is unlikely to take up the bill. Back in California, Pardi doesn’t see a future for her theater group if there isn’t a legislative fix. “We’re just barely getting by as it is,” she said. “We will have to go dark or take a hiatus,” Amorino noted. “The costs would be unsustainable for us.”

Library system recovering from crushing cyber attack

Page 4

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to access their online accounts and couldn’t receive email and text notifications about holds and renewals. By Jan. 22, the county had restored online account access, so patrons could check their accounts and place holds on materials. Likewise, a vast majority of online services were available again. By month’s end, public WiFi and printing services were working at all branches. As officials continue to pursue the perpetrator, county public information officer Susan Shui said the IT staff is “working to improve our security policy and procedures.” Wade Cantrell, owner of Concord-based Cantrell’s Computer Sales & Service, said such hacks are “all about money.” The goal is to collect a ransom, or mine the data to sell on the dark web. He explained that the bad guys set loose malicious software that infects the data and seeks other computers and data backups that it can infect. It encrypts everything that it attaches itself to, locking out the rightful owners. Some victims pay the ransom, usually in bitcoins that are nearly untraceable, and then the hacker provides a decryption key. Others, however, decline the demand and recover by using

past data backups that were not encrypted. Either way, recovery from a ransomware attack typically takes many days. “Generally, the hackers are fast to encrypt the data,” said Cantrell. “And even if you have the key, it is very slow to decrypt the data and get it back up and running.” He recommends not paying the ransom, because this money just funds attacks on other victims. And, there is no guarantee that the decryption key will work after the ransom is paid. A great defense against an attack is a current backup of critical information that can’t be touched by ransomware. Cantrell emphasized that this isn’t a bunch of teenagers in hoodies on their computers, but sophisticated people working in teams. Cybercrime is a volumebased business, with the perpetrators casting as wide a web as possible. “Now they have the ability to put out many phishing lines and hooks,” with unsuspecting entities getting caught. He cited more than $2.7 billion in losses that victims reported to the FBI in 2018, and that doesn’t include crimes that go unreported. “The threat is real, and the threat is growing,” he said.

Desk of on Page 6, or check out the video at cityofconcord.org. The chamber also celebrated and recognized our 2019 Chairman’s Circle Sponsors. Without the support from these business partners, the chamber could not provide the level of service that we do. We appreciate these businesses for their participation and ongoing support for the Concord community. KEvIn CAbRAl Sponsors include: CHAMBER OF Platinum level: John Muir Health, Marathon Petroleum COMMERCE Co., Visit Concord. Gold level: Chevron, ClariLast month, the Greater on Hotel, FivePoint, Mechanics Concord Chamber of ComBank, Mt. Diablo Resource merce hosted a luncheon welRecovery, PG&E, Six Flags coming our new mayor, Tim Hurricane Harbor, Stonebrook McGallian. Healthcare Center, Wave. It was a sold-out event with Silver Level: City of Conwonderful accommodations and cord, Crowne Plaza, Ouimet food provided by the Concord Brother Funeral Chapel, Sierra Hilton and audio visual by DigiPacific Properties & Seeno tal AVS, which set the stage for Shopping Homes, Sunvalley an excellent presentation. Center, Travis Credit Union, the McGallian talked about Veranda. Concord’s growth, touching on Bronze Level: AssetMark, a variety of topics such as the MCE, Pacific Service Credit budget, housing and new busiUnion, Red Dog Graphics. ness opportunities coming into If you or your company is Concord – including a brewery. looking to find out more about Read his column in From the

the commitment needed to become part of the Chairman’s Circle, please give me a call. This month, we once again will be supporting BEST Day, now in its 22nd year. BEST (Business & Educators Shadowing for Tomorrow) Day is a joint effort of the Concord Chamber of Commerce, John Muir Health, OPUS LEEDS (Linking Education & Economic Development Strategies) and Mt. Diablo Unified School District to provide opportunities for elementary, middle and high school teachers to shadow one of nearly two dozen business leaders and experts in a wide variety of fields. It pairs teachers with local technology, finance, retail, health and other industries, allowing them to learn from industry partners what skills their students will need to compete, contribute and succeed.

DAVID SCHOLZ Correspondent

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February 14, 2020

Nearly a month after advising patrons that a systemwide ransomware attack had hit Contra Costa County’s libraries, officials had restored the vast majority of online services and those available at the 26 branches. On Jan. 3, administrators alerted patrons via email of the network outage and took the affected servers offline. The Sheriff ’s Department and the District Attorney’s Office initiated an investigation, with assistance from state and federal resources. Although the investigation is ongoing, there has been no evidence of personal patron data being compromised. The server that stores patron data related to library card accounts and transactions was not affected. Officials, who did not respond to the ransom, declined to say if the system’s data had been backed up or if a disaster recovery plan was in place when this attacked occurred. “We don’t want to broadcast what our vulnerabilities may have been as the investigation is continuing,” said library public information officer Brooke Converse. Initially, patrons were unable

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February 14, 2020

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Tempers flared and emotions ran high Feb. 4 during a public hearing over an 81unit housing development proposed for Clayton’s Town Center area. After the Planning Commission denied the multistory senior housing project in December, three residents and developer William Jordan filed appeals to the City Council. By the close of the Feb. 4 council meeting, city staff and Jordan had homework regarding parking concerns to complete before the March 3 meeting. “There is a limit to what we can demand, but there is not a limit to what you can propose,” Mayor Julie Pierce told Jordan. “If you can make the project more viable to prospective tenants because there is more than one parking space per unit, it makes it more financially viable.” “The Olivia on Marsh Creek” is planned for three adjacent parcels at the southwest corner of High Street and Marsh Creek Road. Previously, Jordan expressed confidence that the project would eventually gain council approval as “it meets city and

state laws to a T.” One-by-one, however, opponents cited the inadequate number of parking spots for residents and the negative spillover to surrounding neighborhoods. Councilwoman Tuija Catalano lauded Jordan for adding five parking spots in his proposal, but she believes there could be more if he were willing to tweak where the buildings would be situated. She cited the potential for at least six tandem parking spots and up to 14 on Site 3 if the planned building were moved. Similarly, Catalano said the available setback on Site 2 could accommodate up to 16 parking spots if that building were moved. Pierce also offered an idea to get over the parking hurdle by pointing to the adjoining AT&T Switching Station, with a lot that seems to get little use. She proposed that city staff reach out to the company to begin discussions about a leasing arrangement that would accommodate visitor parking to Jordan’s project. The appeals hearing will continue at the Mar. 3 Council meeting at 7 p.m. at the Clayton Library.

Concord Clayton Pioneer

Looking at the latest breast cancer treatments domized to an additional five years of AI vs. placebo. There was a 4 percent absolute reduction in breast cancer recurrence with extended AI use but no difference in overall survival seen thus far. There was no increased risk of osteoporotic fractures with longer AI use. The decision to continue therapy anti-estrogen beyond five years remains individualized based on the patient, risk of the tumor, bone density score and tolerance of the treatment. But we now have another important study showing a potential benefit of longer treatment, and researchers are investigating genomic assays that we hope will help guide treatment decisions. We have seen several treatment advances for HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer. The sympo-

SMD, from page 1

very special and sacred mountain for peoples of this area for eons and still is,” Clement added, “so we are hopeful that our communities will help us raise the necessary funds to protect this land.” CMDTRA president Elaine Baker was equally enthusiastic. “We at CMDTRA are thrilled to finally move forward with making the conservation easement into a reality, preserving our treasured open space for future generations,” she said. “We are so thankful that Save Mount Diablo has created this

Parking at issue in downtown Clayton housing proposal

unique opportunity to not only protect the land but also create funding to preserve the equestrian culture in the Bay Area.” The area is surrounded on three sides by Mount Diablo State Park and contiguous with SMD’s conserved Young Canyon property and its North Peak Ranch acquisition project, which the organization is buying over 10 years. Protecting the 154 acres will build upon already protected wildlife habitat corridors, scenic view corridors and watershed lands. Over the years, a number

sium featured three important therapies that will soon, if not already, be available to treat patients. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted accelerated approval for trastuzumab deruxtecan (Enhertu) on Dec. 20. The oral HER2-blocker tucatinib received FDA breakthrough designation on Dec. 18, based on improvement in overall survival, including patients with brain metastases. Finally, margetuximab (an anti-HER2 antibody) is awaiting FDA approval based on improvements in outcomes in combination with chemotherapy compared to trastuzumab (Herceptin) and chemotherapy. Breast cancer is a complex disease, with treatment options varying between the stage and specific biology of an individual’s cancer. Decisions about thera-

Dr. Svahn is a medical oncologist and breast cancer specialist with Diablo Valley Oncology and Hematology Medical Group in Pleasant Hill. She is the medical director of the Women’s Cancer Center of the East Bay. For more information, call 925-677-5041 or visit dvohmg.com.

of houses and other structures have been built near the area – highlighting the importance of protecting this strategic land while there are two willing parties. The property, which rises from 1,100 feet to 2,010 feet, provides stunning vistas to passersby on various public roads, such as Marsh Creek Road, and to the public recreating at Mount Diablo State Park. Much of the property is steep and rugged, and its biodiversity supports dozens of rare plant species like the Mt. Diablo globe lily and rare wildlife such as the Alameda whipsnake. Meanwhile, the oak woodland and grasslands

on the property can help mitigate climate change. Forests and other undeveloped lands absorb greenhouse gases, thereby acting as carbon sinks that keep those gases out of the atmosphere. SMD’s fundraising for the property is part of its Forever Wild Capital Campaign. The group has an ambitious $15 million goal to help expedite its land acquisition efforts, while also giving the organization the resources to steward and defend its conserved lands in perpetuity. To date, they have raised $12,963,485. Learn more about Save Mount Diablo at the website www.savemountdiablo.org.

py are becoming increasingly targeted to specific pathways, and molecular testing is continuing to evolve to better tailor treatments. We continue to see improved outcomes with better quality of life. Please join me at 6:30 p.m. Feb. 19 at the Cancer Support Community, 3276 McNutt Ave., Walnut Creek, to hear more about new treatment strategies in breast cancer. Reservations recommended by emailing sgoldberg@dvohmg.com or calling 925-677-5041.

Page 5

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The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com

February 14, 2020

As Concord makes progress, budget concerns a priority

TIM MCGAllIAn

CONCORD MAYOR

On Jan. 29, I had the honor of delivering the State of the City address at the 35th annual mayor’s luncheon and awards ceremony hosted by the Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce. It was special to look out at

the hundreds of community leaders who work so hard on behalf of our city and share my excitement about the future. Among our recent accomplishments, I highlighted the City Council’s recent decision to establish a smoking ban in multi-family housing units; allocation of $7.8 million for the development of affordable housing; completion of several capital improvement projects, including roadway paving projects and a Safe Routes to School project; the arrival of dozens of new restaurants and shops; and the success of our Tourism and Business Improvement District, known as Visit Concord. At the forefront of the city’s priorities are quality of life, fis-

cal stability, economic development, public safety, infrastructure and the development of the former Concord Naval Weapons Station. I am proud that we are making positive headway in these areas. We will continue to focus on making the city an even more attractive place to live, work, play, raise a family and visit. Our challenges include a budget shortfall, an urgent need for roadway and other infrastructure repairs and our continued struggle with a growing homeless population. While the city is taking steps to address each of these issues, I wanted to outline our fiscal challenges. It’s a topic we have been communicating for nearly

East County fire district needs additional resources

bRIAn HElMICK, CHIEF

EAST CONTRA COSTA FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT

In less than 30 seconds, a small flame can turn into a major fire. It only takes minutes for thick black smoke to fill a house or for it to be engulfed in flames doubling in size every minute. The thick black toxic smoke begins to fill the room and surrounding areas, while the heat continues to rise from 100 degrees by the floor to 600 degrees toward the ceiling. When every second matters and time and distance are both your enemy and friend, East Contra Costa Fire Protection District (ECCFPD) firefighters answer the call. In 2018, we responded to 7,782 emergency 911 calls, operating out of three fire stations. Each station is staffed by three firefighters, for a total of nine firefighters working at any given time. We cover more than 250

STEvE GlAzER

STATE SENATOR

As most Bay Area residents know, PG&E has been a terrible steward of our electricity grid. Bad management and a lack of smart investment and maintenance has led to a situation where every high wind forecast can produce preemptive power outages the utility says are necessary to prevent its equipment from starting wildfires. The answer to this problem is to harden the grid, and I have voted for measures forcing PG&E to clean up its act. Unfortunately, that is going to take time. Meanwhile, we are suffering the consequences, and that is unacceptable. That’s why I have introduced three bills to help residents of the East Bay and the rest of California cope the best

two years and that we will continue to grapple with in the year ahead. Although Concord has a balanced general fund budget this year, we did so through the use of reserves to protect funding for vital community services and maintain current service levels. Looking at our long-term fiscal model, the city’s financial challenge increases to a $33 million deficit by fiscal year 2026’27, which represents nearly one-third of our overall general fund budget. During the Great Recession, the city had to make some serious cuts. Deferring maintenance on roads and facilities was a big cost saver. Over time, however, it gets more expensive

Fire Capt. Steve Carter lives in Oakley, with his wife linda.

square miles and a community population of nearly 128,000. However, we are not adequately staffed or equipped to serve our community’s needs. For a community our size, we should have six fire stations and 18 firefighters on duty 24/7. One of the firefighters standing ready to respond is Capt. Steve Carter, who has been serving ECCFPD since it was formed in 2002. Hiring on as a firefighter, Carter quickly demonstrated his abilities and value to the fire service. He was promoted to engineer in 2004 and to cap-

best part of his career, he responded: “Seeing the little kids and their eyes light up when they see the fire engine.” He offers these words of wisdom for those under his command. “Remember – we didn’t create the emergency we were called to. We are simply there to help people when they need us most.” Carter says the fire district is at a crossroads. “Fire station closures have put a strain on our three remaining open fire stations as more fires and emergencies occur in our growing community,” he said. “It’s important for residents to take notice. People’s lives and property are at risk. “We operate as one system and respond to calls based on resources available across our system,” Carter continued. “Additional firefighters and fire stations will improve district-wide service levels.” Please join this conversation. The East Contra Costa Fire Protection District is your fire district. Your opinions matter. We are listening.

every meeting, every project and every interaction. Thank you for all you do to contribute to the vibrancy of our city. I look forward to working in partnership with you to achieve our mission of making Concord a city of the highest quality. If you did not have a chance to attend the event, you can watch my speech on the city’s website or on Concord TV – Comcast 28, Wave 29 or AT&T U-verse 99. Finally, please join me at my next Meet Up With the Mayor, 10 a.m.-noon Feb. 22 at Centre Concord and Preschool, 5298 Clayton Road. The preschool is having its open house, so you can get more information about the programs. Mayor Tim McGallian can be reached at 925.671.2489 or email Tim.McGallian@cityofconcord.org

Community volunteers are key to Clayton library’s success

JulIE PIERCE

CLAYTON MAYOR

toric Keller barn on the property had to go – its demolition was a sad sign of progress. We retained an architect to design a building that fit with Clayton’s history. The first design was a bit avant-garde for the community’s taste, and the second design is what we see here today. The old Keller barn and the library site were on a protected Miwok Indian burial ground, which necessitated the library have a floating foundation to protect the artifacts and lots of fill to raise the building out of the flood zone. Construction began in March 1994, and we celebrated the grand opening on March 4, 1995. Working with a small group of county library staff, more than 200 community volunteers helped set up the library books and materials. Another hurdle we faced was the cost to staff the library with adequate hours. At that time, all libraries operated with county staff – no volunteers were allowed under the county’s union rules. With the help of then county supervisor (now Congressman) Mark DeSaulnier, then county librarian Anne-Marie Gold and union leadership, Clayton leaders negotiated a new model allowing the use of volunteers at all county libraries. That model requires the city to provide and maintain the facility at its cost. The county library system provides the professional staff and a base minimum number of hours for each jurisdiction. If a community wants additional hours, that city pays the difference in cost. That management model we negotiated in 1995 is now the standard for all libraries in the county. The Clayton Community Library has always operated with a 3/5 paid staff. Clayton’s library has the highest number of volunteer hours of any in the county. Our volunteers help make the Clayton Community Library the best library in the county. Please feel free to contact me with any questions, comments or concerns. You can email me at Julie.p@ci.clayton.ca.us or call 925-673-7320. Leave me a message and a contact number or email, so I can get back to you.

tain in 2006. On March 7, Clayton will Carter’s additional duties celebrate the 25th anniverwhile on shift include mansary of the grand opening of aging the self-contained our beloved Clayton Combreathing apparatus (SCBA) munity Library. program for the fire district. You will find the schedule SCBAs are the portable air of activities for the day on packs each firefighter wears page 8, but I wanted to give to enter into dangerous fire you some background on conditions. how this library came to He lives with his wife of exist. 27 years in Oakley, where For years, Clayton’s only they raised four children local access to library servicnow ages 22-26. “I’m fortues was through semi-weekly nate to be working where I visits of the county book live,” he stated. “The opportunity to serve my communiFor more information, please mobile. Patrons could visit the book mobile and check ty has been truly fulfilling.” visit www.eccfpd.org. out or request books to be When asked about the delivered with the next visit. That worked fairly well if one only needed the latest novel, but not so well if a student needed information for a homework assignment due the next day. Sometime in 1988, the book mobile broke down and was not replaced – and Clayton was once again without life depends on it. son can’t receive life-saving library services. Hospitals are currently alerts from police and fire In March 1989, a group of allowed to run their dieselagencies or find out which women from the Clayton escape routes are safe, their life powered generators without branch of the American Assolimits during a declared disaster. ciation of University Women might be in danger. We must have more than just the few But most local air pollution dis- met to fulfill a long-held hours of battery backup that is tricts have limits on how many dream to have a brick and the standard today. Seventy-two hours a generator can run dur- mortar library. Joyce Atkinson hours should be the minimum. ing normal conditions, and and Jeanne Boyd worked with More than 100,000 people many hospitals are concerned the county librarian, Clayton have signed up for PG&E’s that those limits apply even city administrators and City “medical baseline” designaduring a Public Safety Power Council members to make the tion, which means that they Shutoff. My bill would give dream a reality. depend on electricity for their them the confidence to keep Funds from state Prop. 85 their doors open without havhealth. But that designation were available for construcing to worry about huge fines means only that they will get tion of libraries, and dedicated from air quality regulators. advance notice of planned volunteers spent many hours power outages. PG&E is responsible for raising the matching dollars to For someone on oxygen, maintaining a grid that can stay qualify for the grant. The with medication that needs on in a windstorm without risk Oakhurst housing project was refrigeration or dependent on of causing fires. Until that safe- being planned during this an electric wheelchair, an ty net is guaranteed, it is the time, and the city required the extended power outage can responsibility of legislators to developer to dedicate property remove access to the critical protect the vulnerable in our for a library, among many tools they need to stay alive. communities and promote the other amenities we enjoy While PG&E recently well-being of all Californians. today. The city now owned announced a plan to deliver the property, which we could backup battery packs to some Steve Glazer is the California contribute as part of the of these customers, only about State Senator representing the 7th matching “funds” for the 500 packs will be available – far Senate District. If you have quesgrant. You can email me at tions about this or other topics, you fewer than needed. We must The state required the land julie.p@ci.clayton.ca.us or call can reach out to him at require the utilities to provide to be free of buildings to 925-673-7320. backup power to anyone whose sd07.senate.ca.gov. qualify for the grant. The his-

Working to help residents through PG&E outages we can with power outages, whether caused by downed lines or by a utility’s decision to shut down the grid. Senate Bill 431, which I jointly authored with Sen. Mike McGuire, D-Healdsburg, would require telecommunications companies to have at least three days of backup power during outages in fireprone areas. SB801 would require electrical companies to help medical baseline customers, whose lives would be endangered by an extended, deliberate power outage, to acquire backup power sources. SB802 would help hospitals keep their lights on by allowing them to use diesel generators as backup power sources during a planned utility power shut-off, even if the governor has not declared a disaster or state of emergency. Tens of thousands of Californians lost cell phone access during the blackouts last fall. That’s not just an inconvenience. It’s a threat to public health and safety. When a per-

to repair and replace this vital infrastructure. This is why it is so important to preserve our locally controlled funding. The council will be discussing the budget at the Feb. 25 meeting, where we will receive an update on financial projections. There will be opportunities for the community to weigh in on potential cuts or new revenues over the coming months. We encourage public input, so please be sure to attend our meetings and use our online tools to tell us your funding priorities. As mayor, my job is to make sure we move forward, fight hard and succeed every day. We must work together to create the type of community that we can be proud to call our own. As a team and as a community, we all get better when we push past what is possible. As mayor, I bring that mindset into

SCHOOLS

February 14, 2020

The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com

From the desk of...

Page 7

Ensuring access to Former student Annette Eros returns life-saving medication

Since my election to the Assembly, I’ve fought for policies that will help ease the financial strain on hard-working California families. From ending perpetual cycles of debt created by predatory loans to protecting families from unjust evictions and unconscionable rent increases, I have looked at how we can help individuals who are struggling to afford to live in the only communities they’ve ever called home. While I continue my commitment to addressing our ongoing housing and affordability crisis, this year I have introduced legislation to help lower the cost of a lifesaving prescription drugs: insulin. No one should have to make a choice between paying their bills and buying the medicine that they need to live. However, we know that people are being forced to face this choice every day. In November, NBC News published a story about the rise of deaths due to insulin rationing – an incredibly dangerous practice where someone skips fulfilling their prescription or tries to “stretch out” their insulin by taking it less often. It wasn’t only about families who were already living on the margins, it was people who had jobs and health insurance but still struggled with the high cost of insulin. Too often, patients find that their deductible is too high to cover the cost of their insulin. But because they have insurance, they don’t qualify for programs that help to reduce the cost. This leaves them paying the entire cost out-of-pocket. Diabetes is the single most expensive chronic condition in

to Carondelet as school’s 4th president JAY BEDECARRÉ The Pioneer

TIM GRAYSOn

14TH ASSEMBLY DISTRICT

the United States. Insulin can cost on average $300 per vial, which is nearly triple the cost of a vial a decade ago. It’s no surprise that an American Diabetes Association study found that over a quarter of respondents stated that insulin costs have affected their purchase or use of insulin in the past year. In California, the prevalence of diabetes has only increased, adding a financial strain to even more families. Diabetes ranks as a top 10 leading cause of death for Contra Costa County residents. Ultimately, it should not be on Californians to try to find a way to afford their insulin. I have introduced Assembly Bill 1943 to help us achieve this goal. My staff and I are engaged in conversations with those affected by diabetes, California health plans, drug manufactures and advocacy groups in order to find a path forward. If you would like to learn more about this legislation, or share your personal experience with the high costs of prescription drugs, please connect with me through my Concord District Office at 925-521-1511.

County Elections Division can help get voters registered

KAREn MITCHOFF

COUNTY

SUPERVISOR

California’s primary election is coming earlier this year, on March 3. It is important that you check to ensure your voter registration is up to date. The Elections Division of the County Clerk-Recorder’s Office makes it easy to find out. Contra Costa voters can check their registration status by going to cocovote.us and clicking the “My Voting Information” button. The tool is also available by texting “Contra Costa” to 28683 (or “2Vote”). If you find that you aren’t registered, there are a number of options available to ensure that your voice is heard on primary day. For those who wish to vote by mail, you have until seven days before the election to register to receive a ballot in the mail. Visit registertovote.ca.gov and select “Yes” in the vote-by-mail box. Those who wish to register to vote in person can follow the same registration process but choose “No” in the vote-bymail box. For voters who choose to vote by mail, there are a number of options for returning a ballot:

First and most simply, drop your ballot in the mail. As long as a ballot is postmarked by election day, it will be counted. Second, the county Elections Division has been busy installing permanent 24/7 ballot drop-boxes at two locations in District IV: Contra Costa County Office of Education, 77 Santa Barbara Road, Pleasant Hill; and Ygnacio Valley Library, 2661 Oak Grove Road, Walnut Creek. Third, you can drop off a ballot at the city clerk’s office during business hours at any city in the county. Fourth, early voting locations where you can cast a ballot before election day will also accept completed voteby-mail ballots 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Feb. 27-28, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Feb. 29 and 11 a.m.-7 p.m. March 2 at Antioch Water Park, 4701 Lone Tree Way; Richmond Memorial Auditorium, 403 Civic Center Plaza; and Hyatt House, 2611 Contra Costa Blvd., Pleasant Hill. Thanks to a new state law that took effect Jan 1., if you aren’t able to register before the primary, you can participate in same-day registration at your local polling place. Due to the hard work of our county Elections Division, voting is perhaps the easiest it has ever been. If you have any questions, please reach out to the Elections Division at 925335-7800. Karen Mitchoff is Contra Costa County District IV supervisor. Email questions or comments to Mitchoff at supervisormitchoff@bos.cccounty.us

Last week Carondelet High School announced that a former student, Annette Richardson Eros, has been hired as the fourth president of the all-girls Catholic school in Concord. Eros will officially begin her role July 1, succeeding Bonnie Cotter who will be rejoining her family on the East Coast at the end of this school year. Tom Bobich, chairman of the school’s Board of Trustees, says that Eros will be on campus starting Mar. 2 for “the opportunity to shadow and learn from Cotter’s leadership.” The new president is no stranger to Carondelet. She attended CHS as a member of the class of 1985 before moving to St. Louis with her family just prior to her senior year. Her two daughters attend Catholic school on the Peninsula, where Eros currently resides serving as the CEO of Ronald McDonald House Charities Bay Area. Bobich adds, “Annette is eager to take on the challenges of the president’s role as she continues to strengthen the mission of Carondelet’s learning environment built on the spirit and tradition of our Catholic, CSJ founders.” Eros is the fourth president of Carondelet, which opened in 1965 and was led by a principal until Sister Kathy Lang was named the first president in 2001. Lang served until 2012 with Jennifer Martin succeeding her that year. Martin died suddenly the next spring and Sister Ann Bernard O’Shea was the interim president for a year before Cotter as hired in April 2014.

ing positions in a variety of PEACE CENTER ANNOUNCES fields, including all levels of K- 22ND ANNUAL STUDENT ART 12 education, specialty and AND WRITING CHALLENGE This is the 22nd year for substitute teaching positions. Representatives of some local the annual art and writing chalschool districts will be offering lenge for students in the area employment interviews on sponsored by the Mount Diablo Peace and Justice Center site. Along with the CCCOE, and the Dennis Thomas Art representatives from a number and Writing Challenge topic of the Contra Costa County for 2020 is “Our Connected school districts will be on Planet.”Middle and high hand, as well as the county’s school students are invited to charter schools. In addition, produce visual artwork, essays ANNETTE EROS, PRESIDENT information will be available and creative writing on the CARONDELET HIGH SCHOOL about local teaching programs topic with scholarships and and teaching credential prizes for winners. Entry submission deadline requirements. LOCAL STUDENTS EARN For additional details about is April 24. For more informaCOLLEGE HONORS Several local students have this free event contact Morgan tion visit ourpeacecenter.org. been recognized by their col- Broshar (925-942-3489). leges for outstanding work in the classroom during the fall. Gonzaga University President’s List: Jaclyn Nicole Aragon, Clayton 6160 Center Streeet, Suite F, Clayton, CA Dean’s List: Sofia Gabriella Daly, Clayton •Design Consultations Katherine Marie Madigan, •Remodels, Kitchens, and Baths Concord •Design and Project Management Marquette University •Hunter Douglas Dealer Dean’s List: Kevin O’Reilly, •27 years of Design Experience Clayton •Clayton Resident for 20 years George Fox University Dean’s List: Sophia Enders, Clayton Whitworth University Provost’s Honor Roll: Jacobi Padilla, Clayton

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February 14, 2020

to stay. The do not knows are at 21 percent, and 28 percent disagree. That is a fairly good declaration of community support. In the past, one of the knocks on Concord was that it was a transient city where people EDI BIRSAN would live for a while and then move on. This indicates that a PULSE OF close majority plan to stay put. Is Concord undergoing gentriCONCORD fication? 20 percent yes, and it is With 232 responses, and not improving neighborhoods and much variation by resident vs. our economic vibrancy and is a non-resident, there are some good thing. interesting aspects to my latest 24 percent yes, but it is causpoll. ing lost community culture, disI expect to live in Concord for the placing residents and businesses rest of my life. and is a bad thing. Some 43 percent agree or 29 percent no, it is just a strongly agree, and another 8 buzzword with no application percent do not know but hope

to Concord. 10 percent do not know what gentrification means as it relates to the current state of Concord. 17 percent, no opinion. This shows an interesting split between those who think it is good or bad, but half the people will not agree with either of the polar opposites. It is a simplification to say that conservatives favor it and liberals/progressives oppose it, but that is the image. When it is discussed in terms of slums, the view from the left is that they should be upgraded and repaired but the original people should remain there. The right adds the caveat: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Well, if they can afford the new market

rate.â&#x20AC;? Sometimes there is a cry of racism attached to gentrification, but it is also a matter of class. Do campaign contributions influence a change in City Council votes? 36 percent yes, donors pay for their votes. 32 percent yes, but I am not sure of the extent. 21 percent, not sure. 4 percent no, the contributions are for what they have done or promised. 4 percent no, most contributions are based on the people they are. The results infuriate me. These reflect the negative image of the political process at the local level, which is being poisoned by the perception and

some action on the national and state levels of dysfunction. Let us look at the two aspects: change and influence. I have not seen a single case on the City Council where I would say that money caused a change in a vote, and I have been on a lot of minority votes and strongly opposed to my colleagues on a bunch of things. In the past local elections, I could point to large ($70,000-$100,000) donations being channeled to a candidate from a single source or business group in the form of direct contributions and indirect funds through independent expenditures, but in each case it is because the candidate aligns with the contributor group. I

Q: I have various renovations I would like to tackle this year. What is the best timing? A: Many people think that winter isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t a good time to start big home projects, but this simply isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t the case. Cold weather often makes for great building conditions, and winter is the slow season for many builders so costs will likely be lower. Consider taking on these four home renovations during the winter: Add a room. If you are in need of more space in your home, winter is a great time to build an addition. The cold, dry air is ideal for digging foundations. This is a significant project, but if done correctly, it can greatly increase your homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s value. Add a deck. Not only is winter the perfect weather conditions for digging, many people find cold temperatures are more comfortable to work

This is the perfect task for winter, whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the guest bath or the front powder room that could use a touchup. When youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re tearing out old cabinets, tiles and showers, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a good idea to consider a dumpster rental. Having a dumpster just outside your door can make the task of clearing out trash and debris much easier. You can tackle these renovations on your own or hire a professional to do it for you. Winter is partly over, so youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d better get started.

on simplifying your house cleaning routine to free more time to focus on other goals. Start by decluttering. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hard to get excited about a fresh start when you are surrounded by junk, so make purging unnecessary items a top priority. Get rid of items you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need by donating, selling or disposing of them. If itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth keeping, find a place for it. Reconfigure the furniture. Give your living space a facelift by simply rearranging the furniture. Beyond aesthetics, think about how you can make better use of natural light and the traffic pattern. You might eliminate extra pieces of furniture if the room feels crowded. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Less is moreâ&#x20AC;? still applies. Create a fitness space. One way to stay committed to a new workout routine is to make a place where you enjoy spending time. It can be a room or

merely a fitness corner that feels intentional and not like an afterthought. If possible, locate it by a window so you can soak up the energy of natural light. Add inspirational posters and storage for equipment such as hand weights. Add greenery. The middle of winter may not seem like an ideal time to hone your green thumb, but adding a few plants can make your home feel more inviting and chase away the cold weather blues. Plants also serve as a natural purifying system; they absorb carbon dioxide to help stimuThe statements, questions, informalate their growth and are tion and opinions herein are those of believed to absorb a host of Edi E. Birsan personally and do not other airborne pollutants.

In celebration of 25 years of service to the community, the Clayton Community Library is throwing a birthday party on Saturday, March 7. Festivities start at 9 a.m. with an opening ceremony honoring veterans, library founders and civic leaders. The day will culminate with the burying of a time capsule for future generations to discover. Here is a schedule of events: 9 a.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; opening ceremony. 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; kids story times. 11 a.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; scavenger hunt for grades 1-2.

1 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; scavenger hunt for grades 3-5. 2 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; native plants program. 3:30 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; time capsule burial. The library provides programs for all ages, a multitude of books and audio books, DVDs, CDs, an extensive chilThe Clayton Community drenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s reading section and library turns 25 this year, after-school resources. VolunSee library history in the teers bring expertise and supmayorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s column, page 6 port, mirroring the welcoming 11 a.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; hiking program. environment created by library 11:45 a.m., 3 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; door prize staff. drawings. Noon â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Clayton Community The library is at 6125 Clayton Library Foundation annual Road, Clayton. For more informameeting. tion, visit claytonlibrary.org. 12:30 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; birthday cake.

Put winter to good use with home renovations

lYnnE FREnCH

REAL ANSWERS

in than the hot days of summer. A great bonus of building a deck now is that itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be ready to enjoy by summertime. Add insulation. If the cold weather has reminded you that your home needs more insulation, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no better time than now to have it added. Inadequate insulation can cause high utility bills and a cold home. Remodel a bathroom.

Q: What about some winter upgrades that arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t as major? A: Your living environment has a strong influence on your life, and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth evaluating how you can make updates that create a positive space for you. This doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to be costly. Concentrate

Send your question and look for your answer in a future column. Email Lynne@LynneFrench.com. French is the broker/owner of Windermere Lynne French & Associates. Contact her at 672-8787 or stop in at 6200 Center St., Clayton.

cannot say that I have seen any individual alter a position because of donor intervention. Would you send money to political opponents with the idea that they would change their minds? At a local level in our council, what is basically bribery is not the case. As for influence, it is again a matter of alignment. Some people believe that influence is automatic with a donation. When you donate to a candidate, are you trying to influence them or reward them? There has been a valid argument that candidate access has been enhanced by donations. I say enhanced only. In my case, I have made it one of my key features to be accessible to everyone regardless of their status. I have not seen a single case of a council person refusing to talk to someone on account of donation status. I have heard of it at the governorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s level with one distant past governor, but not locally. So please, at the local level, do not think that your elected officials are being bribed. For the overwhelming part, they are being supported by big contributions either because of their positions, inclinations and alignments or it is mostly a matter of personal interaction or likeability. I should only wish that the national and state level would be the same. For the rest of the results, write to me at EdiBirsan@gmail.com or go to my Facebook page Pulse of Concord.

purport to reflect any policies or opinions of the city of Concord, including without limitation the Concord City Council, city staff, or any other people, institutions or organizations associated with the city, the National Football League or the tooth fairy.

Celebrate Clayton Libraryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Be a Hope Hosspice V Vo olun nteer! 25th birthday bash on March 7

Explore waays ys to to help otherrs in your own community

You can make a meaningful impa act in the lives of local hospice patients when you volun nteer your time. Even the simplest of gestures such as reading to or talking with someone offfers comfort at the end of life. There are many ways for you to contribute your time and talents at Hope Hospice. Our volunteers provide immeasurable support in such ways as: â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘

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Hope serves patients in homes and residential care facilities throughout the Tri-V Valley and neighboring East Bay cities. You You will receive training and orientation, and we will work with your schedule and geographic preference. Connect with Hope Hospice today to learn how you can put your volunteers play an essential role in helping us achieve our mission of providing exceptional care to our patients and their families.

Connect with us: (925) 829-8770 HopeHospice.com/volunteering

SPORTS & LIFESTYLE

The Pioneer

February 14, 2020

www.PioneerPublishers.com

Calendar . . . . . . . . . . .B5 Hit the Trail . . . . . . . .B8 The Arts . . . . . . . . . . .B6

The Pioneer, Section B

29 senior athletes ink fall college commitments JAY BEDECARRÉ The Pioneer

Three local high schools feted 29 senior student athletes last week when they signed their National Letters of Intent committing to play their sport starting this fall in colleges from coast to coast. Clayton Valley Charter, Northgate and De La Salle had student athletes formalize their college choices in front of students and parents at their schools. The signees were football, baseball, rowing, lacrosse, swimming, golf, softball, soccer, volleyball, wrestling and cross country athletes at the three schools. Bay Area fouryear schools getting commitments were San Jose State, Holy Names University, UC Berkeley, San Francisco State and Saint Mary’s College. CVCHS football state championship team member Mana Taimani, who earned allleague, all-East Bay and allState honors, is going to be a Cowboy at the University of Wyoming. De La Salle’s North Coast Section championship baseball and football teams had nine athletes make commitments. The players from the Spartans 2019 state baseball team of the year signing out NLI were standout pitcher Kyle Harrison (UCLA) and teammates Vince Bianchina (Northwestern), Keoni Coloma (Saint Mary’s College) and Charles McAdoo (San Jose State). SportStars magazine recently named Shamar Garrett of De La Salle as the Northern California player of

Photo courtesy De la Salle High School

De la Salle’s nCS championship baseball and football teams had nine athletes sign their nlI last week along with three other senior classmates at the Concord school. The signees were, from left, Anthony banis (u. of Washington), vince bianchina (northwestern), Chase britton (Whittier College), Keoni Coloma (Saint Mary’s College), Wyatt Crespi (Wake Forest university), Grant Daley (uC berkeley), Shamar Garrett (San Jose State), Kyle Harrison (uClA), Charles McAdoo (San Jose State), Derek O’Connor (Saint Mary’s College), benjamin Roe (Eastern Washington) and brendan Tuholski (uC Davis).

the year, another honor for the all-purpose star of the DLS football team that lost two games last fall, each to the No. 1 team in the country. His Spartan football teammates to also commit were Wyatt Crespi (Wake Forest University), Grant Daley (UC Berkeley), Benjamin Roe (Eastern Washington) and Brendan Tuholski (UC Davis). NLI SIGNEES (SPORT AND COLLEGE)

Clayton Valley Charter Jackson Nosrati (Lacrosse, Concordia of Wisconsin) Mana Taimani (Football, University of Wyoming) Ashley Slagle (Softball, Westcliffe University) Alexa Avelar (Soccer, San Francisco State)

De La Salle Anthony Banis (Rowing, University of Washington)

Vince Bianchina (Baseball, Northwestern) Chase Britton (Lacrosse, Whittier College) Keoni Coloma (Baseball, Saint Mary’s College) Wyatt Crespi (Football, Wake Forest University) Grant Daley (Football, UC Berkeley) Shamar Garrett (Football, San Jose State) Kyle Harrison (Baseball, UCLA) Charles McAdoo (Baseball, San Jose State) Derek O’Connor (Cross Country, Saint Mary’s College) Benjamin Roe (Football, Eastern Washington) Brendan Tuholski (Football, UC Davis) Northgate Abigail Cheung (Soccer, Biola University)

See College, page B3

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*Fares are per guest and apply to minimum lead-in categories on a space-available basis at time of booking. Fares are non-air, cruise- or cruisetour-only, based on double occupancy and apply to the first two guests in a stateroom. Fares and other values quoted in U.S. dollars. Please refer to princess.com for terms, conditions and definitions that apply to all bookings. †Premier Beverage Package is valid only for guests in a stateroom who are 21 years or older. Guests who are under 21 years of age at the time of sailing can still book the Best. Sale. Ever. pricing, but will only receive the Premier Coffee & Soda Package and will not receive any refund or otherwise for the alcohol portion of the Offer. A daily limit on alcoholic beverages will apply. ‡‡Wi-Fi included for one device per guest. Wi-Fi details will be delivered to guests prior to sailing or in the stateroom. All Internet usage subject to Princess Cruises’ standard policies, which may limit browsing of sites due to network security and bandwidth usage. Applications that use high bandwidth may be blocked and offerings subject to change with or without notice. ‡Gratuities valid on select items only and are included in U.S. dollar amounts. Amount of gratuities paid on behalf of guest may vary based on stateroom type. This amount is paid on the behalf of each guest. Gratuities do not include gratuities added to bar charges, dining room wine accounts, or Lotus Spa services fare includes drinks† wi-fi‡‡ gratuities‡ a value of $1,045 General Terms (applicable to all portions of the Offer) – ONLY available if all guests in a stateroom elect to participate in the Offer. Offer expires February 29, 2020 and is only available to residents of 50 United States or D.C., Canada, and Puerto Rico. Offer and its parts are non-transferable, is not redeemable for cash at any point, and may not be combined with other offers or other onboard credits. Offer’s Drinks, Wi-Fi, and Gratuities are only available on board the ship (not applicable to land portions), may only be used on a single voyage, and expire at the end of such voyage. Offer available on select voyages sailing starting March 26, 2020. If one guest in a stateroom elects not to avail itself of the Offer, the Offer may not be available for other guests in the same stateroom. Offer is only available on cruises indicated as “Best. Sale. Ever.” Cruises at capacity will be excluded. Visit princess.com for full terms, inclusions and restrictions. Offer valid: December 11, 2019 – February 29, 2020 on select cruises sailing starting on March 26, 2020. Call Princess Cruises at 1.800.PRINCESS, your Cruise Vacation Planner, or your travel advisor with any questions about the offer. Changes or refunds may not be permitted. Deposit of $100 per guest is refundable. Full Suites require a $200 refundable deposit per guest. Cruises under 6 days require a $50 refundable deposit per guest. Deposits are required for guests 1 and 2 only. Reference promotion code: NZ*. Note: For assistance reserving a wheelchair-accessible stateroom, please call 1.800.774.6237. ©2019, Princess Cruise Lines, Ltd. Ships of Bermudan and British registry.

Photo courtesy CvCHS

A quartet of Clayton valley Charter High School seniors signed their nlI at the school last week. Heading off to college in the fall are, from left, Jackson nosrati (Concordia of Wisconsin), Mana Taimani (university of Wyoming), Ashley Slagle (Westcliffe university) and Alexa Avelar (San Francisco State).

Playoffs getting underway as winter sports reach final stage

Page B2

The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com

Athlete Spotlight

Grade: Junior School: Mt. Diablo High Sport: Basketball

Mt. Diablo High boys basketball had been on the upswing the past two seasons under guidance of coach Ejon Felder. That trajectory took on an even higher direction when 7-foot junior transfer Oakman joined the team in December. Felder says the mobile big man “has the ability to play on the block and from the perimeter. A big man with great shooting touch and a lot of upside. He is a great shot blocker that can really rebound.” Originally from New York, Oakman “takes being a student athlete very seriously” his coach adds. He’s been averaging close to a triple double since he donned the Red Devils uniform The team was on a threegame winning streak entering this week in the Diablo Athletic League, where they stood third in the standings having won eight of their past 12 games overall after opening the season with one win in 12 games. Felder sums

up his new player: “He continues to get better and has taken on a leadership role on our team. He is a division one [college] prospect with a bright career ahead of him. The sky is the limit for Mezziah.”

The Pioneer congratulates Mezziah and thanks Athlete Spotlight sponsors Dr. Laura Lacey & Dr. Christopher Ruzicka who have been serving the Clayton and Concord area for 25 years at Family Vision Care Optometry. www.laceyandruzicka.com

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

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onship games and the school has a near two decades long streak of 20+ win seasons. North Coast Section playoffs League play concludes this week for Diablo and East Bay begin next week, running Feb. athletic league soccer and bas- 18-29. ketball teams with North Coast Section playoff berths deter- CLAYTON VALLEY CHARTER, DE LA SALLE TOP BOYS mined Sunday. Both Northgate BASKETBALL RECORDS and De La Salle already Clayton Valley Charter (18-8) grabbed Section championships last Saturday in the and De La Salle (17-7) have the team dual meet wrestling tour- top boys basketball records entering mid-January among nament. local schools. The Spartans are locked in a YGNACIO VALLEY GIRLS three-way tie for third place in CROWNED LEAGUE the EBAL at 7-4 with the final BASKETBALL CHAMPS Ygnacio Valley girls basket- league games this week. They are ball are queens of the Diablo ranked 8th currently in NorthAthletic League Valley Divi- ern California prep rankings. CVCHS at 7-3 is second and sion even before the final league games are played this trails undefeated Campolindo in week. The 8-0 Warriors will be the DAL Foothill Division and looking for a nice seed in the plays their final two league NCS Division IV tournament games this week against the firstas they’ve won 11 of their past and last-place schools. Mt. Diablo at 5-3 in the DAL 13 games and are 15-8 overall. Clayton Valley Charter has Valley Division is still holding on a 16-8 season mark and hosts to hope for a Division III playoff Campolindo Tuesday in the berth with their strong second game to determine second half to the season. place in the DAL Foothill CARONDELET MOVES Division. The Ugly Eagles are TOWARDS TOP NCS 6-2 and Campo 6-3 entering SOCCER SEEDING this week, both trailing undeDefending NCS Division I feated Acalanes. soccer champion Carondelet is Carondelet has an 11-11 sea10-1 in the EBAL, battling rival son record and last week lost its Vista (8-1-1) for the Monte first game to an East Bay Athletleague title that will likely garner ic League opponent since 2013 NCS top seed as well. The when San Ramon Valley beat the Cougars only league loss was 2-1 Cougars 54-48. in Danville to the Mustangs last Extending two more streaks appears to be tough reaches for month. That decision was the young Carondelet team this reversed last Thursday when year as well. The four-time reign- Carondelet (16-4-1 overall) got ing NCS titlists have been in 12 an incredible 4-3 victory with the straight NCS basketball champi- winning goal in the final minute. Clayton Valley Charter is 12JAY BEDECARRÉ The Pioneer

Mezziah Oakman

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SPORTS SHORTS

CONCORD CUP XXVII ACCEPTING TEAM REGISTRATIONS

The area’s largest annual youth soccer tournament, Concord Cup, returns for its 27th year at a variety of Concord parks May 16-17. Boys and girls club and AYSO teams from under 10 through U19 are eligible to participate. Diablo FC, Mt. Diablo Soccer and Concord AYSO co-sponsor the tournament. Visit concordcup.com for complete information and to register a team to participate.

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February 14, 2020

TEAM REGISTRATIONS

3-5 and second in the DAL to Campolindo at 6-1-4 with Northgate hot on their heels at 8-3 (10-4-1 overall). Concord is 3-5-3 (8-6-5 for the season). The NCS playoffs begin next week and conclude Feb. 28-29. CVCHS, DLS POST ONE-LOSS SOCCER MARKS

De La Salle has won seven of the past 11 Division I Section championships and figures to head the list as top seed this winter with a 17-1-1 record, the only blemish a 2-0 loss to San Ramon Valley in EBAL play. SRV at 10-0-1 is ahead of the Spartans (10-1) ahead of their showdown Tuesday in Concord. The DAL boys race has been wild with four teams having only one loss each entering the final week of the season. Las Lomas is first at 9-1-1 with Clayton Valley Charter and Acalanes tied at 8-1-2 and Ygnacio Valley right behind at 7-1-3. The Ugly Eagles host Acalanes Wednesday in a key matchup. Las Lomas also plays Acalanes in this final week.

NORTHGATE, DE LA SALLE WIN NCS TEAM TITLES Northgate won the Division II team dual meet wrestling championship last Saturday beating Benicia 57-24 in the finals. All three of the Broncos matches were against DAL schools. Their semi-final match was against crosstown rival Las Lomas. The Knights had won four of the past five NCS titles,

See Playoffs, page B3

facility. Fee is $30. The camp for ages 6-12 focuses on batting, fielding, pitching and throwing skills. Contact Eagles head coach Casey Coakley at casey.coakley@claytonvalley.org with questions or to register.

DANA HILLS SWIM TEAM OFFERING SPRING CLINIC STARTING MAR. 2

Registration is open now for all ages at the first Dana Hills Swim Team spring clinic that runs from Mar. 2-Apr. 2. The rec swim season for the Otters begins April 13. DHST is open for Otter Pups ages 3-6 through the 15-18 age group with registration open through May 11. Founded in 1977, Dana Hills was third at the 2019 Contra Costa Swim Championships and first at the Concord City Meet for the 27th time in the past 28 years. For more info visit danahillsotters.com.

Vista Diablo Dolphins began registration for its summer CONCORD AYSO NOW ACCEPTING recreation swim season last week. Early bird pricing is offered SPRING SOCCER REGISTRATION for swimmers who register by April 18 for new families. PreConcord AYSO is accepting registration for its spring socseason swim practice begins April 20 and the season runs cer program online. The spring season is from March through through July. For more information please send email to May. There are programs for 3-4 year-olds, 6U-8U and 10U VDDSTmail@gmail.com or visit the team website through 14U. The registration fee includes a team shirt and vddst.swimtopia.com. insurance. Email registrar@concordayso.org with any questions. Visit concordayso.org to register and get more inforCONCORD TABLE TENNIS CLUB mation. WELCOMES NEW PLAYERS

Concord Table Tennis Club is a USATT affiliated club that has been in continuous operation for over 47 years with a mission to promote table tennis. CTTC meets three times weekly at Pleasant Hill Adventist Academy gymnasium, 796 Grayson Rd. The sessions are Sundays (10 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.) and Tuesdays and Thursdays (7-10 p.m.). For more info visit concordtabletennis.com or call Phil Schafer (925-689-7463).

ST. BONAVENTURE CYO TRACK PRACTICES UNDERWAY

St. Bonaventure CYO spring track and field is now accepting registration for its spring season. The track and field program is open to boys and girls in second through eighth grades. Practices began earlier this month and are Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 4-5:15 p.m. at Newhall Park. Saturday meets begin in March and the season runs through May 9, culminating with the Oakland Diocese championships. For more information you can call 826-7426, email head coach Matt Tillman at matttillman@gmail.com or go to their website stbonaventurecyo.com.

USKS PRESENTS 33RD ANNIVERSARY JUST FOR KICKSBENEFIT SHOWCASE MAR. 21 AT CONCORD PAVILION

USKS Martial Arts will host its 33rd anniversary showcase, Just For Kicks, on Saturday, Mar. 21, at the Concord Pavilion at 2:30 p.m. Students from four years-old up through the studio’s black belt instructors will display their martial arts skills. Advance tickets at $20 (ages 4 and younger free) can be purchased at the Dojo (4493 Clayton Rd. by Bill’s Ace Hardware) or from USKS students. Visit usksmartialarts.com in advance for details.

ALL OUT SPORTS YOUTH LEAGUES TAKING SIGNUPS

Youth basketball and volleyball leagues are accepting registrations for winter leagues. Spring basketball league commences Mar. 13. For complete information on All Out Sports programs including camps and clinics, visit alloutsportsleague.com.

YGNACIO VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL 2020 ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME DINNER TICKETS NOW AVAILABLE

The Ygnacio Valley High Athletic Hall of Fame dinner for the Class of 2020 is May 16 at Contra Costa Country Club. Tickets are now on sale. The inductees are coaches Jack Biglen (football and golf) and Triss Carter (boys and girls cross country and track) and athletes Oliver Hanf (Class of 1987, wrestling, football, track), Jim Mayo (1975, wrestling), Julie Pitois (1989, basketball, softball, volleyball), Eric Lakin (1982, baseball, football) and Chris Iglesias (1980, baseball, football). Email ygnaciovalleyhalloffame@gmail.com or visit yvathletichof.com for more details and to reserve tickets.

MDSA SPRING LEAGUE REGISTRATION OPEN

Registration is open for Mt Diablo Soccer Association's spring season. The program is open to boys and girls under 6U-19U divisions. The older divisions are co-ed teams. Games are Mar. 21-May 16. For more details and to register visit mdsoccer.org.

CONCORD AMERICAN LITTLE LEAGUE REGISTRATION FOR SPRING BALL OPEN ONLINE

Concord American Little League is still accepting registration for its 2020 spring baseball and softball seasons. The CLAYTON VALLEY CHARTER HIGH league’s website has complete information for t-ball through YOUTH BASEBALL CLINIC MAR. 22 senior baseball and softball (4-14 years old) and Challenger Clayton Valley Charter High School baseball coaching (4-18 years) programs. Call 472-8940 for more information or staff is offering a one-day clinic for youth baseball players on register online at callbaseball.org. Sunday, Mar. 22, from 9 a.m. – noon at the school’s baseball

Terrapins swimmers ignite at Zone 2 Championships February 14, 2020

JAY BEDECARRÉ The Pioneer

Terrapins Swim Team had a fulfilling weekend at the Pacific Swimming Zone 2 Championship meet in Moraga at the tailend of January, winning the team title by over 300 points. Coaches credited “a collective team effort from the

The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com

8-unders to the 15-18’s” for the championship result. The Terrapins had three high point winners in 8-under girls winner Marina Didenko (brand new to year-round swimming from the Vista Diablo Dolphins), 9-10 boys Morgan Wendler and 11-12 boys Davidka Skov. This week over 60 Terrapins traveled to Phoenix for

the 2020 Winter Invitational. In January the team held its annual awards dinner at Centre Concord. The guest of honor was five time-time Olympic gold medalist Nathan Adrian, who swam collegiately for the Cal Bears and wore his alma mater’s gear to the dinner. Adrian has represented America in the last three Summer Olympics.

Jay bedecarré

Five-time Olympic gold medalist nathan Adrian was guest speaker at the Terrapins annual awards dinner last month at Centre Concord. Among the high school age swimmers from the local uS Swimming team meeting the former Cal bear standout were, front row from left, Gigi baldacci (Carondelet), Kaitlin Sheffield (Carondelet), Isabella Castaneda (Clayton valley Charter), Weylin Foo (Concord), Serafina Celentano (Clayton valley Charter), Sophia Miller (Clayton valley Charter), Damien Donado (Clayton valley Charter); back, Adrian and logan Faulkner (Concord).

Page B3

Athlete Spotlight

Shane Jensen

Grade: Senior School: Clayton Valley Charter Sport: Wrestling

Four-year varsity wrestler Shane Jensen is taking his last season on the mat by storm. With the help of some encouraging soon-to-be teammates and an interest in MMA, Jensen changed from a freshman unconcerned with sports to one of the most successful members on the Ugly Eagles wrestling roster. He is currently ranked seventh overall in North Coast Section for the 108-pound weight class and has taken home many placement medals Jensen won the Pittsburg High Invitational, took fifth at the Northgate High Bill Martel Invitational, third at the Granada High Mat Classic and eighth at the Liberty High Lou Bronzan Invitational. Jensen credits his success to his teammates and coaching staff for setting very high expectations for him that he always attempts to surpass. His wrestling family and the bonds he has built with them are his favorite aspect of the sport, along with learning invaluable life lessons about the importance of structural integrity in mental and physical health. Coach Casey Strand calls Jensen “the kind

of athlete that every coach dreams of. Not only is he an absolute beast on the mat, he’s a wonderful human being and a great teammate.” A three-year member of the Clayton Valley Charter Digital Arts Academy, the senior plans on studying computer graphics and game design in college in order to pursue a career in that field. CVCHS student journalist Alexa Oldham wrote this Spotlight. The Concord Clayton Pioneer congratulates Shane and thanks Athlete Spotlight sponsors Dr. Laura Lacey & Dr. Christopher Ruzicka who have been serving the Clayton and Concord area for 25 years at Family Vision Care Optometry. www.laceyandruzicka.com

Playoffs, from page B2

the only blemish was Northgate’s 2017 championship. Las Lomas was seeded fourth this year and met top seed Northgate in the semi-finals, losing 45-36. Northgate had opened the day-long event with a 6014 win over Campolindo.

De La Salle won its sixth straight Division I team dual championship—and 13th in the past 14 years—when they beat second seed Granada of Livermore 45-15 in the finals. Earlier, DLS easily handled Mission San Jose and Freedom.

The EBAL and DAL league tournaments are this weekend. The NCS team title and individual berths in the State Meet are up for grabs Feb. 21—22 at James Logan in Union City. The Spartans have won five years in a row and 10 of 11 Section team championships.

Love & New Listings in the Air!

STEPHANIE LOPEZ 925.305.9099

I have other exciting listings in Clayton that I am just now preparing for market. I’d love to share the details with you. Photo courtesy Terrapins

The Terrapins dominated the Pacific Swimming zone 2 championships last month in Moraga. Among the swimmers excelling at the first meet of 2020 were, front row from left, Addison Reed, Thomas Reed, Morgan Wendler, Jonathon Keller, Marina Didenko, Miley ulicki; middle row, Abby Keller, Jacob Ceja, Gabriel Skov, Christian Ceja; back row, Mason Wendler, Daniel lewis, Davidka Skov and Kyle Stilinovich.

College, from page B1

Adrian Dulay (Swimming, Jose State) University of Connecticut) Amaya Lee (Softball, Marshall Benji Elster (Soccer, University) Northumbria University) Katie Hicks (Softball, Oregon Gia Feliciano (Golf, University State) of Wisconsin) Olivia Lee (Softball, Holy Jon Jon Gazdar (Baseball, San Names University)

Eric Prough (Football, Pomona College) Miks Ramanis (Volleyball, BYU) Luke Saunders (Baseball, UC San Diego) Liv Villanueva (Wrestling, Southern Oregon) Nathan Wu (Football, Macalester College)

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Coming Soon

Beautiful Dana Ridge Home - 596 Mt. Dell Dr.

4 bedroom / 2.5 bath in terrific location central to Clayton’s fantastic downtown, schools, restaurants, parks and more. Bright living room with soaring ceilings, formal dining room, open kitchen and family room combo with fireplace and access to rear yard. Stamped concrete patio with access to open space to the rear. Don’t miss this wonderful opportunity to be a part of the awesome Clayton lifestyle. Call for details

Photo courtesy northgate High School

northgate held its second annual college signing ceremony last week. The seniors making their college commitments were, from left, Abigail Cheung (biola university), Adrian Dulay (university of Connecticut), benji Elster (northumbria university), Gia Feliciano (university of Wisconsin), Jon Jon Gazdar (San Jose State), Amaya lee (Marshall university), Katie Hicks (Oregon State), Olivia lee (Holy names university), Eric Prough (Pomona College), Miks Ramanis (bYu), luke Saunders uC San Diego), liv villanueva (Southern Oregon) and nathan Wu (Macalester College).

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Clayton made many stops before journey to namesake town Page B4

The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com

DEbbIE EISTETTER

THE WAY WE WERE

A newspaper reporter visited the residence of Joel Clayton in the summer of 1863 as he gathered information for an article about the landowners and ranches of Ygnacio Valley. The family home was situated on the banks of Diablo Creek. The two-story affair had three small rooms down-

stairs, one larger room upstairs and a lean-to that provided extra space. The writer described the house as a “very comfortable mansion.” He stated that Joel Clayton owned “a large and valuable ranch under good fence, (having a) good barn and outbuildings, gardens around his house and streams of living water passing through them.” A herd of livestock, a dairy and a vineyard of 20,000 young vines completed the idyllic picture of the Clayton property situated in the golden foothills amid the majestic oaks. But Joel Clayton was never one to be satisfied with the day-to-day duties of running a ranch. His interest in mining kept him on the move his whole adult life, beginning as a young man in Bugsworth, England, a locale rich in coal

February 14, 2020

and lead deposits. He became a mining engineer traveling to Scotland and Wales. In 1837 at the age of 24, he was anxious to explore the riches of America. Thus began the many journeys he would undertake that would make him known as a “roamer.” He joined his uncle in Pittsburgh, PA, and for a short time was involved in the manufacture of oilcloth, a relatively cheap alternative to leather used as a waterproof material. His next destination was Lowell, Mass., the “cradle of the American Industrial Revolution” and the first large-scale factory town in the country. There was a farming venture in St. Louis before he settled for a time in the “lead region” of Illinois and Wisconsin, where he prospected for minerals, purchased land,

built a cabin, opened a store, built a grist mill and married Margaret McClay in 1841. The lead that could be easily mined was exhausted by 1844, and mining the area further would be prohibitively expensive. The Oregon Territory became the main topic of discussion amongst the restless miners, as officers of the Hudson Bay Co. spread tales of a land brimming with natural resources. Clayton made several trips to the West via the Oregon Trail with small, fast-moving groups of men and packhorses having no wagons to slow their progress. In 1850, he was pressed to become the leader of a wagon train to California. As quartermaster, he had the privilege of selecting the types of wagons and essentially controlling all aspects of the journey. The

group was comprised of mostly miners, a few families, 10 prairie schooner wagons, 80 oxen and 20 horses.

microscale wind motion. Microscale circulation is the smallest scale of air motion. These air currents are often chaotic in nature, lasting from seconds to minutes. We can observe them for distances ranging from several feet to several miles. Because of the short space and time scales, they are nearly impossible to predict. The turbulence you experience in an aircraft and dust devils are other examples of microscale flow. Later in the game, the sky suddenly grew dark and a strong shower developed. For about 20 minutes, wind-driven rain pelted the field as we escaped to the meager shelter of the dugout. A mesoscale-

sized event caused the weather delay. Mesoscale weather events last from minutes to hours. They can be transitory or stationary. Showers, thunderstorms and tornadoes are transitory mesoscale events. Stationary examples include the Bay Area sea breeze and the daily upslope/downslope wind flow cycles in the mountains. By the time the game ended, the skies had mostly cleared. However, we could see smooth bands of slightly arching cirrus clouds high overhead. These clouds formed a small part of a macroscale circulation pattern known as the polar jet stream.

Macroscale winds represent the largest circulation patterns in the earth’s lower atmosphere. These wind patterns last from days to months and have distance scales that range from hundreds to thousands of miles.Trade winds and the jet stream are good examples of planetary scale wind patterns. The synoptic scale is a subcategory of macroscale events. Synoptic scale weather patterns typically last from days to weeks. Examples include hurricanes that develop near the earth’s surface and the anticyclonic (highs) and cyclonic (lows) circulations at the jet stream level. Even though each scale of

Joel Clayton was a mining engineer and led a to wagon train to California before settling in Clayton.

His brother, Charles, who had settled in Santa Clara in 1848, had likely told him how the tremendous influx of people seeking wealth during the California Gold Rush had increased the demand for beef and dairy products. Therefore, a herd of cattle was also part of the journey, with an ultimate destination of Placerville, known at that time as Hangtown. Part 2 of Clayton’s ventures and adventures will continue in the April issue of the Pioneer.

Debbie Eistetter is a board member of the Clayton Historical Society. For more information or to become a member, visit claytonhistory.org. The Clayton Museum is open 2-4 p.m. Wednesdays and Sundays at 6101 Main St.. Admission is free.

At the field level, even the smallest weather change matters

One of my retirement hobbies is playing in a senior softball league “the Creakers” sponsored by the city of Walnut Creek. Weather conditions are always a factor when we play. At a game a few weeks ago, we observed air motions ranging from the smallest scale to the largest. Meteorologists divide the scales of atmospheric events into three broad categories: microscale, mesoscale and macroscale. These groupings are based on both the time and space scale of wind and weather patterns. As I was patrolling right field in the first inning, a high fly ball came in my direction.

WOODY WHITLATCH WEATHER WORDS

While waiting for my “can of corn,” a surge of wind hit my back. In a mini-second, the gust altered the course of the ball and it hit the ground after grazing the tip of my glove. It was an error in the scorebook and a good example of

atmospheric wind pattern has defined time and space bounds, there are often interconnections between the scales. For example, the synoptic scale storms that deliver winter rains to California are embedded in the global jet stream circulations. As a meteorologist, I enjoy observing all the scales of motion in our atmosphere. As a ballplayer, I could live without the microscale winds that twist and turn a sailing softball out of reach.

Woody Whitlatch is a meteorologist retired from PG&E. Email your questions or comments to clayton_909@yahoo.com

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expand your view of the world with multiple monitors. You will wonder why it took WIll ClAnEY you so long to experience it. Most people with PCs or TECH TALK laptops made in the last five years or so can use multiple The view of the world monitors by simply plugging from your desktop is more them in and rebooting the important than ever, and it’s computer. Usually, the comall made possible with moniputer will detect the additional tors. monitors and set them up for Modern technology allows you. the use of smart TVs as monIf it doesn’t automatically itors (imagine a 50-inch set up the right view for you, screen), mixed monitors of there are controls to make the differing sizes or a group of changes that you desire. For contiguous monitors arranged boot-up, which to use for example, you can designate in a matrix. tools or which to use for which monitor is used for The time has come to videos, games or photo editing. Before setting up multiple monitors, think about updating your Windows software. If you have been ignoring notifications about updating Windows, the first step is to allow the updates to proceed. Note: You may have to turn off your antivirus software before doing the update. The next thing you need to know is what outputs the computer supports. Basically, there are four types of video Doug Van Wyck If you’ve done any home outputs. The oldest is VGA, CLU ChFC, Agent renovations, it’s time to the legacy video output most Insurance Lic. # 0586396 review your coverage and common to computers built 6200 Center St. Ste. A before 2018. Then there are make sure you’ve got the Clayton, CA 94517 newer outputs like HDMI, protection you need. 925-672-2300 DisplayPort and DVI. Most LET’S TALK TODAY. new computers support two www.dougvanwyck.com or three of the options. VGA outputs are usually blue and have two rows of pins totaling 15 pins. DVI has lots of pins, including a slotlooking pin, and is usually State Farm Fire and Casualty Company, white. HDMI looks similar to State Farm General Insurance Company, Bloomington, IL a USB connector with “dogState Farm Florida Insurance Company, Winter Haven, FL 1708139

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ears” and is usually black. DisplayPort is very small in comparison to the other outputs, and it’s black as well. Once you have identified what video outputs your computer supports, go shopping for monitors that have those features. Adaptors or add-in video cards are available if you don’t have the right output for the monitor you want. Ask the sales person to explain the options. If they can’t, you’re in the wrong store. Ask a pro what brands to buy. Multiple monitors have become an inexpensive addition to the computing experience. Just imagine watching a great video on one monitor and checking email on another, or creating a drawing on one monitor with the “tools” on another. Now that’s convenient and fun.

William Claney is an independent tech writer and former owner of Computers USA in the Clayton Station. Email questions or comments to willclaney@gmail.com.

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As part of the Concord Historical Society Speakers Series, author Michael Shapiro will discuss how to chart our creative paths and enrich our lives. His book, “The Creative Spark,” will be available for purchase. 2 p.m., Concord Museum and Event Center, 1928 Clayton Road. Free. Galindo Home open for tours, 1-4 p.m. Sundays. 925-818-2312.

Tuesdays Farmers Market

10 a.m.-2 p.m., Todos Santos Plaza. pcfma.org.

IN CLAYTON

Feb. 19 Clayton Valley Village Annual Meeting

Public welcome. Doors open 6:30 p.m., meeting 7-8 p.m., Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. claytonvalleyvillage.org.

FUNDRAISERS

Feb. 23 Veterans Hall/VFW Crab Feed

Doors open 5 p.m., dinner 6 p.m., Elks Lodge, 1475 Creekside Dr., Walnut Creek. $50. RSVP by Feb. 14; chicken available by request when making reservation. 925-389-0057.

Feb. 29 Blue Devils Crab Feed

All you can eat dinner with salad, crab, pasta, garlic bread and dessert, plus silent auction, raffle, music and dancing to benefit B and C Corps. Door opens 5 p.m., Centre Concord, 5298 Clayton Road, Concord. $65 or $600 for table of 10 until Feb. 16. eventbrite.com/e/bd-performing-arts-crab-feed-fundraiser-tickets-75709943479. For info, contact Teresa Saunders at teresa@bluedevils.org.

March 7 Festival Opera Gala

“Carmen” themed evening with fortune telling, dinner, concert, dancing and auction to benefit the 2020 season. 6 p.m., Scott’s Garden, 1333 N. California Blvd. Walnut Creek. festivalopera.com/gala or 925-944-9610.

Second Sundays VFW Pancake Breakfast and Bake Sale

Pancakes, sausage, eggs, coffee, tea, juice, 8-10:30 a.m. second Sunday of each month, Veterans Hall, 2290 Willow Pass Road, Concord. $5, $3 for kids under 12. vfwpost1525.org.

YOUTH

Feb. 23 Contra Costa Camp & School Fair

Booths for camps, schools, preschool, STEM and STEAM programs, sports, cooking, enrichment, performing arts, scouts and YMCA. Coding workshop plus tennis, abacus and arts activities. 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Acalanes High School, 1200 Pleasant Hill Road, Lafayette. Free. contracostacampfair.com.

March 6 MDUSD Gender Spectrum Alliance Forum

Free for all students of the Mt. Diablo Unified School District. Speakers, student-led games, facilitated discussions and pizza, plus separate facilitated discussions for adult family members and allies. 4-8 p.m., Ygnacio Valley High School, 755 Oak Grove Road, Concord. 925-935-5595 or claycordPFLAG@gmail.com.

SUPPORT

Feb. 18 PFLAG of Clayton-Concord Monthly Meeting

For adult family members and allies of LGBTQ+ people of all ages. 7 p.m., Clayton Valley Presbyterian Church, 1578 Kirker Pass Road, Clayton. 925-935-5595 or claycordPFLAG@gmail.com.

Feb. 24 Alpha Kick-Off Party

Explore the big questions about life, god and faith without judgment or criticism. Alpha is open to anyone and includes food, videos and conversation. 7 p.m., St. Bonaventure Catholic Community, Large Hall, 5562 Clayton Road, Concord. stbonaventure.net/alpha or gcattalini@stbonaventure.net.

VOLUNTEERS

March 7, 14 Diablo Valley Literacy Council Spring Workshop

For adults interested in helping ESL (English as a Second Language) adults in the community learn the English language. 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 4000 Clayton Road, Concord. Volunteers must attend both sessions and commit 1-2 hours per week after match with a student. $20. RSVP at 925685-3881 or dvlc4esl@gmail.com.

HEALTH

With Dr. Tiffany Svahn. 6:30-8 p.m., Cancer Support Community, 3276 McNutt Ave., Walnut Creek. Free. RSVP to sgoldberg@dvohmg.com.

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Feb. 14-15.........................................Firebirds Blues Band Feb. 21-22 ........................................................The Relyks Feb. 28-29 ......................................................Delta Duece Mar. 6-7 ...........................................................Triple Treble Mar. 13-14....................................................Blues Healers Karaoke Mon. & Wed. nights Open Mic Thur. nights, 8-11 pm

CALENDAR

March 1 “The Creative Spark”

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April 9 Feb. 27-March 21 Advance Health Care Directives for Seniors Clinic “The Cherry Orchard”

Legal clinic to prepare and notarize advance health care directives for those 60 an older in Contra Costa County. 9:15 a.m.11:30 a.m., Concord Senior Center, 2727 Parkside Circle. Free. Call for appointment at 925-671-3320.

OUTDOORS

Feb. 15 Mushroom Program

Explore the wondrous world of fungi. 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Summit Museum, Mount Diablo State Park. $10 per car.

Feb. 15 Amorous Amphibians

A guided walk for ages 5 and older to some ponds in Briones Regional Park, while describing the life cycle of newts, frogs and other amphibians. 10:30 a.m.-noon, meet at the top of Briones Road off Alhambra Valley Road south of Martinez. 510-5442750.

Feb. 16 Eagle Peak Hike

Eight-mile hike with an elevation gain of about 2,100 feet. 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m., meet at Mitchell Canyon Visitor Center, 96 Mitchell Canyon Road, Clayton. $6 per car. jvanakkeren@comcast.net.

Feb. 23 Frog Pond/Green Ranch Hike

A 9.5-mile hike with an elevation gain of about 2,100 feet. 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m., meet at Curry Point on South Gate Road on Mount Diablo. $10 per car. jvanakkeren@comcast.net.

March 4 Bird Walk

Guided walk suited for beginner birders. 9 a.m.-1 p.m., meet at Mitchell Canyon Visitor Center, 96 Mitchell Canyon Road, Clayton. $6 per car. onesuperhiker@aol.com.

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT

Through Feb. 22 “The Devil’s Music, the Life and Blues of Bessie Smith,”

The career, loves and losses of the “Empress of the Blues,” Lesher Center.

Through March 1 “White Guy on the Bus”

Exploration of race, B8 Theatre Company.

Through March 1 “The Road Traveled”

Anton Chekhov masterpiece about a family on the edge of ruin, Town Hall Theatre.

March 1 Folk Legacy Trio

George Grove (Kingston Trio), Rick Dougherty (Limeliters, Kingston Trio) and Jerry Siggins (the Diamonds) sing “The Great American Folksong Book.” 3 p.m., El Campanil Theatre.

March 7 The Sun Kings

“Abbey Road” and “Let it Be” albums in their entirety. 8 p.m., El Campanil Theatre.

March 19-April 4 “The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940”

The creative team responsible for a recent Broadway flop assemble for an audition of their new show at a Westchester estate, Clayton Theatre Company.

March 20-21 “Coppélia”

Full-length storybook ballet, Diablo Ballet. Lesher Center.

March 20-29 “The Real Inspector Hound”

Tom Stoppard pokes fun at theater critics and murder mysteries, Pittsburg Community Theatre. Steeltown Coffee and Tea, 695 Railroad Ave., Pittsburg. pittsburgcaliforniatheatre.com.

AT THE LIBRARY

Concord Library is at 2900 Salvio St. Full schedule at ccclib.org/locations/Concord.html. 925-646-5455.

AARP Free Tax Assistance, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays through April 12. Make appointment at 925-405-5135. Baby & Toddler Storytime, 10:15 a.m Tuesdays. Ages 0-3. Forever Young: Adult Book Club, 4 p.m. Feb. 18, March 17. Preschool Storytime, 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays. Ages 3-5. Meditation: A Common Sense Approach, 6 p.m. Feb. 20. Coffee and Conversation, 2 p.m. Feb. 24, March 16. Adulting 101 for Teens, 5:30 p.m. Feb. 24. ABCs of Medicare, 4 p.m. Feb. 26. Adventures in Coding, 4 p.m. Feb. 27. Registration required. Monthly Movie Night for Adults: “Harriet,” 6:30 p.m. Feb. 27. Concord Knitting and Crochet Group, 1:15 p.m. March 1. Concord Mystery Book Club, 1 p.m. March 8.

Clayton Library is at 6125 Clayton Road. Programs are free unless otherwise noted. Full schedule at ccclib.org/locations/Clayton.html. 925-673-0659.

Children’s Winter Reading, through Feb. 29. Read and get prizes. Patty Cakes Storytime, 11 a.m. Tuesdays. Ages 0-3. Picture Book Storytime, 11 a.m. Thursdays. Ages 3-5. Clayton Knits, 1:30 p.m. Feb. 24, March 9. Through March 13 Create Bookmarks, 5 p.m. Feb. 24. Celebrating the library’s 25th anniversary. “Wild Jazz 5” All Abilities Playgroup Workshop, 11 a.m. Feb. 25. Ages 0With East Bay watercolorist Joel Summerhill. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 3. Tuesdays-Saturdays, Valley Art Gallery, 1661 Botelho Dr., Suite 110, Walnut Creek. Artist’s reception, 4-6 p.m. Feb. 15. valleyart- Red Red Rose Painting, 5 p.m. Feb. 26. Ages 11-18; registration required. gallery.org or 925-935-4311. Celebrate Horton and Dr. Seuss Craft, 4 p.m. Feb. 27. Library’s 25th Anniversary Celebration, 9 a.m.- 4 p.m. Through March 22 March 7. “The Great Wave: Contemporary Art About the Library Book Club, “A Man Called Ove,” 7 p.m. March 9. Ocean” Leprechaun Craft, 4 p.m. March 12. Inspired by Katsushika Hokusai’s woodblock print “The Great Wave off Kanagawa.” Bedford Gallery, Lesher Center. Tamsen Armstrong paints the Western landscape. Main Street Arts, 613 Main St., Martinez. 925-269-8049 or mainstreetarts.net.

GOVERNMENT

Feb. 21-March 14 “Natural Shocks”

1st, 2nd and 4th Tuesdays Concord City Council

Feb. 22-March 1 “A Raisin in the Sun”

1st and 3rd Wednesdays Concord Planning Commission

A one-woman drama with an unexpected secret, Women of Words/Onstage Repertory Theatre. Campbell Theater. Lorraine Hansberry’s powerful drama about a struggling AfricanAmerican family, Pittsburg Community Theatre. California Theatre.

Feb. 22, March 14 Concert Series

6:30 p.m., Council Chamber, Civic Center, 1950 Parkside Dr. cityofconcord.org. 7 p.m. Council Chamber, Civic Center, 1950 Parkside Dr. cityofconcord.org.

1st and 3rd Tuesdays Clayton City Council

7 p.m. Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. ci.clayFeb. 22: Jazz with Matt Zebley. March 14: Martin Morley & David ton.ca.us or 925-673-7304. Auerbach on piano and organ. 7:30 p.m., Clayton Valley Presbyterian Church, 1578 Kirker Pass Road, Clayton. $15 at the door. 2nd and 4th Tuesdays Contact Lyle Swallow at 925-689-5070 or lswallow@astound.net. Clayton Planning Commission 7 p.m., Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. ci.clayton.ca.us or 925-673-7304.

Theater Contact Key

b8 Theatre Company, 3503 Clayton Road, Concord. b8theatre.org. 925-890-8877. California Theatre, 351 Railroad Ave., Pittsburg. pittsburgcaliforniatheatre.com. 925-427-1611. Clayton Theatre Co., Endeavor Hall, 6008 Center St., Clayton. claytontheatrecompany.com. 925-222-9106. el Campanil Theatre, 602 W. 2nd St., Antioch. elcampaniltheatre.com. 925-757-9500. Lesher Center for the arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. lesherartscenter.org. 925-943-7469. Town Hall Theatre, 3535 School St., Lafayette. townhalltheatre.com. 925-283-1557.

Meeting dates and times for local clubs and organizations are listed at concordpioneer.com. Click on ‘Links’

T HE ARTS Page B6

The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com

February 14, 2020

B8 thrilled to present ‘White Guy’ in new Concord home

KATHRYn G. MCCARTY

THE

MARQUEE

From My Sushi to “my theater,” B8 artistic director JanLee Marshall says finding a home for the theater company is “both exciting and terrifying.” Like a phoenix rising from the ashes, B8 is soaring high at its new space – formerly My Sushi restaurant in the El Monte shopping center on Clayton Road in Concord. Marshall said transforming it into a performance space is “completely worth all the work our volunteers, board members and designers have poured into this effort.” In keeping with its production of cutting-edge dramas, the group will perform “White Guy on the Bus”

Kevin berne

Katrina lauren McGraw stars with Wilson brooks in “bessie Smith” at the lesher Center in Walnut Creek.

through March 1. For updates on the season in their new home, visit b8theatre.org or call 925-890-8877. At the 2019 Shellie Awards, Clayton Theatre Company’s Ashley Dionne won outstanding supporting actress in a musical as Olive in the “25th Annual Putnam

Kathryn Mccarty

Roy bell, Dave Harder and Janlee Marshall work on b8 Theatre’s new space in the El Monte Center in Concord.

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Dionne said. For a full list of Shellie winners, visit the Pioneer’s website or Facebook page. Clayton Theatre Company will start its 8th season with “The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940,” directed by La Tonya Watts with Roxanne Pardi assisting. The show runs March 19-April 4. Visit claytontheatrecompany.com or call 925-222-9106. Lauren Stanovich stars in “Natural Shocks,” a tour-deforce one-woman play written by Lauren Gunderson. Drama ensues as she waits in her basement for an approaching tornado. She relates stories and, ultimately, we learn an unexpected secret. The Women of Words/Onstage Repertory Theatre production plays Feb. 21-March 14 in Martinez. For more info, visit campbelltheater.com. “Workforce,” a musical by local playwrights Jim Maher and Alan Beliakoff, will have its debut Aug- 7-16 at the Martinez Campbell Theater. Visit campbelltheater.com. Want more classics? See Townhall Theatre artistic director Susan E. Evans’ version of “The Cherry

lauren Stanovich brings on the drama as she awaits a tornado in “natural Shocks” by Women of Words and Onstage Repertory Theatre in Martinez.

Ashley Dionne won a Shellie for Clayton Theatre Company’s “25th Annual Putnam County Spelling bee.”

22 at the Lesher Center. Contact lesherartscenter.org or 925-943-SHOW. Ghostlight Theatre’s 2nd annual play festival runs March 27-29. “A Treasury of 10-Minute Plays 2.0” showcases original, unpublished works by local playwrights as well as published works at the Theatre at Edna Hill in Brentwood. Visit it ghostlightte.org. Pittsburg Community Theatre presents “A Raisin in the Sun,” starring Phillecia Rayshaun and Jason Anthony. Directed by La Tonya Watts and written by acclaimed playwright Lorraine Hansberry, the play tells the story of a family’s struggle for dignity and a better life. The performance runs Feb. 22-March 1 at the California Theatre. Visit pittsburgcommunitytheatre.or g or call 925-439-7529. Broadway Repertory Theater auditions for “The Sound of Music” will be Feb. 29 at Resurrection Ministries, 1275 Fairview Ave., Brentwood. Bring 32 bars in your key; an accompanist will be provided. To reserve a spot, email directorkinsella@gmail.com with “auditions” in the subject line.

Kathryn G. McCarty is wellknown around the Bay Area as an educator, playwright and journalist. Send comments to KGMcCarty@gmail.com.

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County Spelling Bee.” The play featured Tony award-winning lyrics and music written by William Finn. “Clayton Theatre Company has taught me to always make the best out of what you have,” noted Dionne, who is studying to get a master’s in professional behavior analysis online through Florida Institute of Technology. “I currently work at an agency that provides Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services to children with special needs, primarily children on the Autism spectrum.” She says that the Clayton troupe doesn’t let its small theater space limit the shows they put on. “They use their creativity and support from their community to find a way to make it work. I find that very inspiring.” The “Spelling Bee” cast got to perform for the last time together at the Shellie’s. “There were so many talented people who performed on that stage that night, and it was such a cool experience to see that many people come together and speak so passionately about their theater experiences in this community,”

Orchard,” with a translation by Richard Nelson, Richard Pevear and Larissa Volokhonsky. The play runs Feb. 27March 21 in Lafayette. Contact 925-283-1557 or townhalltheatre.com. Artistic director Michael Butler directs Center REPertory Company’s production of Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice,” adapted by Kate Hamill, March 27-April 26 in Walnut Creek. Call 925-943SHOW or visit lesherartscenter.org. “The Diary of Anne Frank” is one of the most famous and haunting stories to emerge from the 20th century, adapted for the stage by Wendy Kesselman, Frances Goodrich and Albert Hackett. Poison Apple artistic director Noelle Arms directs the show April 3-19 in Martinez. Visit poisonappleproductions.org. Transport yourself to 1937 for an electrifying evening with Bessie Smith, who recounts her incredible life, career, loves and losses and the songs that made her the show-stopping “Empress of the Blues.” Katrina Lauren McGraw stars in “The Devil’s Music, the Life and Blues of Bessie Smith,” through Feb.

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Therese Anne Fowler’s latest book, “A Good Neighborhood,” is one very good novel. The first thing that will catch your attention is the voice of the omniscient third-person narrator. We are told that a young girl lounging beside a pool wants to be alone. The narrator, a member of the neighborhood,

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tells the reader that the neighborhood continues to maintain its “tenuous peace, a loose balance between old and new, us and them.” Something happens that Sunday afternoon in May, something that “will change everything.” The narrator continues, “Later that summer when the funeral takes place, the media will speculate boldly on who’s to blame.” And in answer to that question, “For the record: we never wanted to take sides.” “A Good Neighborhood” is a story fit for today. It is an old neighborhood, comfortable in its homes and yards with room to live outdoors. Older residents retire, die, and new money moves in, replacing smaller homes with large and grand residences with little need for trees and large yards, gentrification at the real estate level. The pretty teen by the pool has just moved into such a mansion with her younger sister, her mother, and stepfather. Her quiet time poolside is interrupted with a friendly “Hey” from her teenage next-door neighbor. She is startled. She had

not known he was there, and he did not “look like her—that is, white.” I cannot elaborate on the novel’s complex plot without writing a spoiler, but Fowler has created a solid cast of characters upon which to build her story. Xavier and Juniper are the lynchpins. Xavier’s mother, a black English professor, and widow; Juniper’s mother, a once single mother and secretary who marries her boss, Brad Whitman, Juniper’s stepfather. The North Carolina city of Oak Knoll and it unhurried and comfortable-with- each-other residents are another character. Xavier’s mother, Valerie, loves her community, her son, and one ancient oak tree that dominates her back yard. The oak is another character, key to the novel. Brad Whitman’s edifice to himself, was built after razing an old home and most of its yard. That digging has not only placed the life of Valerie’s oak in jeopardy, the community of Oak Knoll is also impacted. Race and its place in gentrification, education, social-

SunnY SOlOMOn

BOOKIN’ WITH SUNNY

izing, and every aspect of civilized life, plays a major role. Touchy topics, but Fowler is a master storyteller and handles it with gritty grace. So, how do I convince you to read (and buy) “A Good Neighborhood” without telling you what happened to the teens, the parents, and the community? This is a powerful story, powerfully written, and a book for everyone: women, men, and teens. The issues of community, parenting, sex, greed, race, responsibility, honesty, and love are woven together in a tale that will last far longer than the time it takes to read it. If you belong to a book club, “A Good Neighborhood” is a title that will likely raise the bar for lively discussions.

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.’

Make your closet more than just a storage area February 14, 2020

DEbRA MORRIS

FARMERS MARKET

The “buy local” movement has reached the California nursery business. More than 80 percent of the flowers purchased in the United States are grown overseas. They are raised with heavy use of dangerous pesticides, herbicides and fungicides – and under poor labor conditions. But 100 percent of the fresh-cut flowers offered at the Concord farmers market are grown right here in California. It’s important to seek out fresh-cut flowers that are locally grown, just as you would buy local produce. Purchasing imports means your selection is limited to flowers that can handle shipping and being out of water for several days. Growing and buying flowers locally gives

nICOlE HACKETT

GARDEN GIRL

The groundhog did not see his shadow – suggesting that spring will arrive earlier this year. That means we have lots of landscape work to get done. Citrus trees have ripening fruit and leaves that are beginning to yellow; lawns are thinning and turning brown; azaleas and camellias need a little help; stone fruit trees should be sprayed; and we all know it’s time to prune roses. Our area is difficult for citrus, especially trees less than 10 years old. As lemons, oranges and grapefruit trees try to mature their fruit, we can help them along by applying a fertilizer that concentrates on the fruit, not growth. Look for a product such as a 2-10-10 fertilizer in a water-soluble form, or 0-10-10 granular. Apply this type of bud and bloom fertilizer monthly through March, then begin feeding with citrus food. If your citrus is looking more yellow than usual, apply a dose of water-soluble iron now. Always follow package directions. Our lawns need some attention now, so they’ll be strong through the heat of the long

the perfect bedroom closet, either using the space you have or making a new space from scratch. The most basic way to create a functional closet is to head to the big box stores. These retailers sell modular components that fit into existing spaces without having to spend big money. The installation process is usually straightforward: Attach closet components to a series of horizontal and vertical support rods, incorporating short and long hangs, shelves in a variety of lengths and depths, and pullout drawers. These types of closet components work well in any layout and are budget friendly compared to custom options. If you’re looking for a more hands-on closet design experience, find a company that focuses on the design and

Dream big, then sit back and enjoy your new closet.

building of these spaces. Specialty designers tailor a closet to your specific space. They can create a layout just for you, taking into account your belongings and making sure every

square foot, vertically and horizontally, is used. In addition to functional storage, they will also provide you with decorative options: LED tape lighting that illumi-

nates each and every cubby and hanging space, specialty cabinet finishes, on-demand valet rods that protrude from the cabinetry when needed – basically anything you can dream up in the way of organized storage. These companies will ask you to provide a closet space that is ready for installation. That means you need to demo all existing closet fixtures and prepare the space for new fixtures. If you are starting from scratch with a new home or an addition, allocating the right amount of space for your closet should definitely be part of your design plans. Just as you thoughtfully prepare the design of your bedroom and bathroom, make time to really plan out your closet – be it a formal walk-in closet, a pair of closets, a series of reach-in closets or something unique to your

Page B7

JEnnIFER lEISCHER

DESIGN & DÉCOR

needs. Don’t skimp on the details, functional or decorative. Be thoughtful about how you want to use your closet and how much you’d like the closet to hold. Then consider bringing in a specialized closet designer that will give you the decorative bling you desire, Carrie Bradshaw inspired. Jennifer Leischer is the owner of J. Designs Interior Design based in Clayton. Contact her with questions, comments and suggestions at jenna@j-designs.com.

Sunrise brings local flower power to Farmers Market are proud of their offerings and work hard to achieve the best flowers and plants available. The Concord farmers market has wonderful, fresh-cut bouquets from Sunrise Nursery in Watsonville. Maria and Jose Fernandes started the nursery in 1985. Their sons Steve and Tim now operate the nursery on about 30 acres of open growing fields and in six acres of greenhouses. They produce more than 30 different varieties of cut flowers, from roses to sunflowers, carnations to chrysanthemums and everything in between. Here are some fun flower Steve Fernandes brings fresh-cut flowers to the Concord facts: farmers market from Sunrise nursery in Watsonville. Historically, flowers have meanings attached to them. farmer who grew them. And consumers more of a selecRoses for love, daisies for innolocally grown flowers are usu- cence, sunflowers for adoration, tion. Plus, they are fresher, ally less expensive than those support the local community or chrysanthemums for fidelity. and have fewer “flower miles” imported from other states or Some flowers are edible. countries. – the distance flowers travel Nasturtiums, calendulas, hibisHalf Moon Bay and Watand the energy consumed in cus, lavender and even pansies getting them from the place of sonville have the perfect climate can add subtle flavor to salads, production to our homes. for growing gorgeous flowers soups or cocktails. Another reason to select and plants. The closer to the Ancient civilizations flowers from a local source is source your purchase is, the bet- burned aster leaves to ward that, just like with produce, ter the product will be. Local off evil spirits. you’re able to talk with the nurseries and flower growers Sunflowers move through-

out the day in response to the movement of the sun from east to west. Apples, cherries, pears, raspberries, plums and peaches are related to the rose family. Pick up some locally grown flowers at the farmers market and enjoy their fragrance and color. You will find a wide array of in-season roses, freesias, alstroemeria, gerbera daisies, sweet peas, dahlias, carnations, eucalyptus

again in early April. If you have pink mopheads, apply dolomite lime to encourage a deep pink color. Stone fruit, especially peaches and nectarines that have ever suffered from peach leaf curl, should have copper fungicide applied once the tree is in bud. Use a concentrate formula and follow all package directions. Copper fungicide will stain concrete, so be careful. Regardless of how many flowers or leaves your rose bushes still have, you need to prune them back. Rose pruning is easy; an annually pruned rose should take less than five minutes to prune. Don’t worry about all the buds, blooms or leaves still left on the bush, look at the bottom and begin there. A well-pruned hybrid tea, grandiflora or floribunda rose should have three to five nice, straight, clean canes without any leaves. The object of pruning is to remove most of the past year’s growth, all the crossing canes and lateral branches. Remove all gray canes. You may have to use a saw to get through thick wood. Don’t worry how thick the canes are, you won’t hurt the rose at all. Once you’ve pruned, you can fertilize. Apply the following fertilizer today:

GROUND-GROWN ROSE FERTILIZER ½ c. 16-16-16 fertilizer ½ c. bone meal ½ c. granular iron ½ c. alfalfa meal 2 T. Epsom salt Work into soil throughout the drip line and top-dress with an inch layer of chicken manure; water in.

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

The Concord Farmers Market is in Todos Santos Plaza every Tuesdayduring the winter months, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

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February ‘to do’ list gets your garden ready for spring

summer. Spread a thin layer of a rich soil conditioner on top the entire lawn. Use a product rich in chicken manure, earthworm castings and bat guano. Meanwhile, apply lawn food to brownish lawns. EB Stone has created an effective organic lawn food for those interested. If your lawn in thin, wait to over-seed in March. If crabgrass has proven to be a problem, use a crabgrass preventer on the lawn as well as in ornamental beds. Check package directions. Most products need to be reapplied every four months. Camellias and azaleas are evergreen shrubs that flower winter through late spring. We lump these two families together since we treat them the same ways. Camellias flower first, mainly during late winter, while azaleas start to flower in March. Help these evergreens along now by feeding with the same bud and bloom formula that you would give citrus. Use water soluble 2-10-10 or granular 0-10-10. Follow up with a dose of iron this month to encourage super green leaves. Once your camellias and azaleas have finished blooming, prune to shape and begin fertilizing with a product designed for acid-loving plants. If you grow blue mophead hydrangeas, give them a dose of aluminum sulfate now and

branches and mixed bouquets. Enjoy the pure joy of a simple bouquet of flowers. Give some to friends or loved ones to brighten their day. Pick up some extras to take to a neighbor or co-worker. Nothing is better than big colorful blooms given for no reason at all.

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It’s been several years since our favorite cosmopolitan drinking, best friend quartet made our TV screens blush on the HBO series “Sex and the City.” So many dramatic shenanigans, so many incredibly flawless outfits that were ridiculously on point – and one drop dead gorgeous closet. Diehard fans will remember the walk-in closet that Mr. Big had built for Carrie in the first movie: white cabinetry with polished chrome hardware, white marble flooring, task and ambient lighting from toe kick to tray ceiling and a wall dedicated to shoes. Many, many pairs of shoes. We all need bedroom closets that are functional and organized. And it seems like no matter how much closet space we all have, we could always use more. Maybe it’s time to create

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Get lost in nature on King’s Canyon Loop Page B8

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amazing. This small oversight cost me extra miles and hours of hiking before I realized I made a wrong turn. Signage in this area is confusing and lacking in general, so come prepared with a map. My goal was King’s Canyon Loop, a popular trail nestled near the town of Moraga. My early mishap put me KEvIn PARKER on a detour to Redwood Trail, a pleasant surprise of a singleHIT THE TRAIL track that meandered through “Wait, where am I?” I tall trees and moss on a shady whispered to myself after hik- hillside. I picked up East ing in the wrong direction for Ridge Trail and turned around a long time. at Pinehurst Road. (Help, I’m Even a seasoned trail lost.) expert is never too old to Once back at the Valle learn, as I discovered hiking Vista Staging Area, I followed near Upper San Leandro a well-manicured gravel trail Reservoir. The first lesson was along Canyon Road, across a to consult a map often when large bridge and then onto a visiting new areas. And yes, lazy fire road. maps are on phones now – Although the first part of

King’s Canyon Loop Trail

Distance: 6.7 miles Duration: 2.5 hours Level: moderate Elevation gain: 1,110 feet Cost: $10 EbMuD annual permit at ebmud.com/recreation/buy-trail-permit/ Getting there: valle vista Staging Area, with restrooms and parking Etc.: Dogs on leash OK

KC Loop follows the water line, little can be seen from the trail high above in the dense trees. I hiked this loop counterclockwise to take advantage of the sunset along the ridgeline. The well-maintained fire road is easy on footing, can handle crowds if needed and is dog friendly. My weekday hike revealed few people, so it’s great if solitude is your thing. Expect rollercoaster type dips and dives along the trail as you make your way out to the point – the best water views of the hike. You then turn up into King’s Canyon and head away from the water toward Rancho Laguna Park. You’ll encounter more uphill grinders as you top out along the ridgeline and surrounding neighborhoods. You can descend back toward the water or stay up high along Rimer Creek Trail and finish at the bridge. Evening brought out an abundance of wildlife, with deer at almost every turn. I could hear coyotes in the distance and too many birds to

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name near the water far below. Luckily, I made a few smart choices before leaving my car. The head lamp and extra jacket were key as I made it back to my car in heavy winds and almost total darkness. I would plan on 2.5 hours to complete the loop. Don’t forget to get an EBMUD per-

Although there is evidence of LGBTQ+ people in the archaeological and historical records for as far back as we DODI zOTIGH can look, people still ostracize A LL THE COLORS or pathologize others for who “As soon as we walked in, we knew they are and whom they love. we were walking out of there with new furniture. Cool selection…friendly LGBTQ+ people have I was lucky because of staff…worked with our budget.” existed for as long as humans those who forged a path and 3400 Clayton Rd., Concord, CA have been on the planet, but made themselves visible when growing up LGBTQ+ can still it wasn’t safe to do so. I be a lonely road. remember how excited I was when Ellen DeGeneres came out, but I still didn’t dare tell anyone at my high school on the west side of Buffalo, N.Y., that I was a lesbian. It wasn’t until I joined the military, moved away from 6160 Center St. Suite #C, Clayton home and met other 925-693-0757 Clayton residents since 1959 LGBTQ+ people that I felt safe enough, strong enough, to come out. Even then, it was a struggle to find acceptance 21 Emerson Ct. and be seen. I, along with so many I know, can tell you Concord, $1,099,000 what it meant to find others who identify as LGBTQ+ and 5 bedroom, 3 bathroom to be counted as part of the Approx. 3321 sq.ft. community. Listing agent: Rula Masannat The 2020 Census will be the first to count LGBTQ individuals in some format. Individuals will be able to mark if they are part of a “same-sex” relationship, although gender 244 Promenade Ln. identity and sexual orientation Danville, $937,500 will not be included. Male or female will be the only options 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom, available, so it will not capture approx. 2195 sq.ft. individuals who are born or

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The King’s Canyon hike offers views of upper San leandro Reservoir.

mit for $10 online. I chose Valle Vista Staging Area, but there are many hiker friendly access points along this trail. The days are getting longer, and you aren’t getting any younger – so get out there. Also, please join me at 11 a.m. March 7 for a hiking pro-

gram at the Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Road, as part of the library’s 25th anniversary celebration. I am putting together a PowerPoint presentation.

Contact Kevin Parker with comments or questions by email at LukeHollywood@gmail.com

The power of being counted in the U.S. Census

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identify as intersex. Still, it is an historic milestone where we will be able to leverage federal dollars more than ever before for those in our LGBTQ+ community. For example, Rainbow Community Center is one of many non-profits that relies on Community Development Block Grants. In 2016, California received a little more than $356 million toward state and entitlement Community Development Block Grants that are allocated to cities and counties based on the population reported in the Census. The estimate federally for each uncounted person ranges from $1,000 to $1,700 per person per year depending on the program. That’s why it is so important to be counted. Yet, every Census “undercounts” certain populations. An estimated 20 percent of Contra Costa residents are in “hard to count” tracts. This includes LGBTQ people, people of color, the unhoused, immigrants and people with disabilities. Every person counted will help determine how billions in federal funding is spent each year on critical services, including education, health care, housing, senior centers and public transportation. It can be scary to give out

your information when you are part of a marginalized group, so here’s what you need to know: • Census responses are confidential, and there are strong laws protecting your data. • Under law, the U.S. Census Bureau cannot share an individual’s Census data with the public, state or local governments, immigration enforcement or other federal agencies. • Census data can only be used for statistical purposes and cannot be used to harm people who respond. There is power in being counted, and we can find strength in knowing there are many LGBTQ+ folks across the country. It will equate to dollars that in turn directly impact individual lives. Combined with the many allies who support and love us, we can make a difference for so many for the next decade and beyond. For more information on how to be counted, check rainbowcc.org in March or go to contracosta.ca.gov/6999/Census-2020.

Dodi Zotigh is the board president of the Rainbow Center serving the LGBTQ community in Concord. Send questions and comments to Dodi@rainbowcc.org.