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June 18, 2021
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EBRPD names park to honor civil rights champion Thurgood Marshall JAY BEDECARRÉ The Pioneer
The two-decades long saga of the Concord Naval Weapons Station conversion has taken more twists and turns than a Hollywood movie and maybe none more surprising than the June 1 unanimous vote by the East Bay Regional Park District Board of Directors to name the 2,540-acre park in honor of Civil Rights pioneer and Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall. “Thurgood Marshall Regional Park – Home of the Port Chicago 50” was selected as the permanent name of the park, which had the working title of “Concord Hills Regional Park” since at least 2013. The land was officially turned over to the EBRPD from the Navy/National Park Service in 2019 and the expectation is that part of the site south of Bailey Rd. will open in the next two to three years. Artist rendering courtesy EBRPD Eventually the park will include East Bay Regional Park District will be utilizing the World War II era mini bunkers in the newly named Thurgood Marshall
See Marshall, page 5
Regional Park for public art displays and other uses in the 2,540-acre park that is projected to open its first areas for public use within the next two to three years.
Concord PD investigates drone program KAREN JENKINS Correspondent
The Police Department is looking to the skies for help in curtailing crime as they consider a drone program for specific policing situations but not for general surveillance. As part of the exploration process, the department asked residents for input at several Zoom meetings this spring. “Drone use is nothing new in law enforcement. Drone usage has been around for more than a decade,” Lt. Nick Gartner said at a May 25 meeting. Concord police have used drones since 2019, with neighboring law enforcement agencies such as Pittsburg, Antioch, Richmond and San Ramon providing drones upon request as an “outside assist.” Gartner said no further community meetings are planned as the department moves into the “next phase,” which includes researching existing policies and equip-
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ment that other agencies are using. He added that residents will have a chance for comment as the program moves toward City Council consideration, and that no timeline has been set. Resident Laura Nakamura is following the progress and attended one of the department’s meetings. “To me, it’s like the wheels are in motion and it’s going to happen. The question is how,” Nakamura said. “If it’s going to happen, it’s very important that we get citizen oversight.” The department created a list clarifying what drones would and would not be used for, emphasizing that it would
be for specific not general surveillance. Uses includes missing person searches, aerial reinforcement of a crime scene, situation analysis and advanced surveillance when determined necessary, for example in issuing a search warrant deemed dangerous. Drones would not be used for general surveillance, to harass or intimidate, in backyards or for weaponized use. The department has not stated the cost of launching and maintaining the program, except to note that they envision grants as primary funding. In 2019, the Pittsburg Police Department indicated the city’s program cost about $50,000 to start.
“Any funding, whether internal or external, would be identified. It wouldn’t be something that would be concealed,” Gartner said. Nakamura, who represents Concord Communities Alliance District 5, wants to make sure the approval process and implementation are transparent. “We are in an era where we are seeing people scrutinize the police budget,” she said, adding that citizen oversight also is needed to address privacy issues. Gartner said data collected would be stored in the same manner as body-worn camera data: in the Cloud. It would
Concord names three companies for retail cannabis sites BEV BRITTON The Pioneer
The city could have two storefront retail cannabis businesses open by this fall and another ready by early 2022, after the City Council selected three companies to apply for licenses. Four council members named Authentic as their top pick at the May 25-26 meeting, with Carlyn Obringer dissenting. The council majority cited the freeway access to the 1045 Galaxy Way location, plus the dedicated parking at the standalone building. “I think it was very clear that the location was ideal,” said Mayor Tim McGallian. “Also, I felt that their experience, financial position and overall business acumen was actually far ahead of many of the applicants.” Authentic CEO Ryan Mitchell said the Shryne Group is the largest vertically integrated cannabis operator in California. The company grows, manufactures and distributes cannabis products and already has 13 retail stores. Mitchell said the proposed retail store is “one aspect of a larger play” for the company, which was previously awarded a cannabis distribution license off Port Chicago. “We plan to make Concord our Northern California headquarters – centralize our distribution, have corporate offices, our flagship store and our workforce development facility,” Mitchell said, noting that the store could open by January 2022.
have classifications and timedout settings for deletion, depending on the case and need of the evidence. Any program would comply with Federal Aviation Association policies, and officers with FAA-approved training would control the drone. Additionally, a committee including police, community members, and legal and privacy representatives would oversee adoption of a use policy. “We still have a lot to do A BIT OF CULTURE but rest assured that nothing’s The same council majority going to be done or approved voted 4-1 for Culture Cannabis without this information being Club at 1440 Concord Ave. public facing and openly being discussed with the City CounSee Cannabis, page 7 cil,” Gartner said.
Clayton’s Odyssey of the Mind achievers ‘persevered’ and kept it fun all the way DAVID SCHOLZ Correspondent
If competing in Odyssey of the Mind wasn’t challenging enough for elementary students, try throwing a 100-year global pandemic into the mix. Then when they are finally able to be together, tell them they have just six weeks to prepare their presentation for the competition judges. No problem for the sixmember team from Mt. Diablo Elementary in Clayton, which qualified for Worlds after finishing in the top three at both the regional and state levels in their division. When competition wrapped up for the year in May, the team had achieved 32nd place out of 73 teams from around the globe.
KEY TO THEIR SUCCESS Fun is a key component of Odyssey’s group problem solving activity. Other skills students develop along the way include learning, developing, and employing social skills, teamwork, resource management, designing and making, and critical thinking. All such skills blossomed for the six Clayton youngers, and unparalleled success and pride resulted for them. PUSHING MENTAL CREATIVITY
The group of Avica Bennett, Keira Caldwell, Julia Dent, Emma Forrester, Charlotte King and Hannah Laverick, with the support and encouragement of Emma Forrester, Avica Bennett, Hannah Laverick, Keira Caldwell and Charlotte King from Mt. Renee Culp, achieved what no Diablo Elementary School, had a very successful run in the 2020-21 Odyssey of the Mind
See Odyssey, page 5
competition, becoming the first team from the school to make it all the way to OM's Worlds. Not pictured, Julia Dent. (Contributed photo)
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After a 20-year career in the Air Force and degrees in business, professional aeronautics and aviation safety and management, Carl Paul was ready to make his dream of owning his own business a reality. Rather than stay in aeronautics/aviation, he had an opportunity to open a franchise for Chemical Guys to sell auto detailing supplies. His wife Graciela, who also served in the Air Force for 14 years, had family in the Bay Area and the couple chose Concord for their business because of how helpful all the various government entities were in getting new businesses started. In opening the auto detailing business, the former airplane mechanics also saw an opportunity to help others. They said that the military gave them many opportunities to give back to the community, and it was something that was just part of who they are. For Carl, this choice was also about teaching young people how to care for their cars and how to start their own mobile detailing businesses. LAUNCHING CANS AND CARS Only a year after they opened Detail Garage on
Monument Boulevard, the pandemic hit and the Pauls had to close their business for several weeks. When they reopened, they began donating hand sanitizer and cleaning products to police and other first responders. They then saw the need for food donations as they passed Monument Crisis Center each day on their way to work and noticed the growing line of people waiting to get food. The Pauls combined their values of giving back to the community with their military training in leadership and started Cans and Cars. The combination food drive and informal car show sometimes attracts hundreds of cars. Carl believes bringing donations of food empowers others, and that together we can all make a big impact. “I want to show people that you can make a change at the local level,” he said. “Some young people don’t realize their power. You don’t have to be rich to make a difference in your community.” CONNECTING THE COMMUNITY
Alexa Gambero, pantry services coordinator at the Monument Crisis Center, said she’s been impressed with the initiative. “Detail Garage really goes out of their way to make sure families in our community get fed,” she said. In addition to the truckloads of food being delivered, the car show serves as
Tamara Steiner
Carl and Graciela Paul stock shelves in their Detail Garage store, but both find bigger rewards in collecting food and supplies for the Monument Crisis Center.
a way to connect car enthusiasts and provide a safe outdoor gathering opportunity. The Pauls have also sponsored a Trunk or Treat event at Halloween, a backpack drive and a $2,000 scholarship for youth wanting to go to college or get into the car detailing business. Their annual toy drive is another fun event that includes not only their two boys but their customers. Anyone bringing in a toy gets a raffle ticket for a car polishing kit. “We found that this was a good way to get our kids, family and customers involved,” said Graciela. “They want to help their community but just didn’t know how.” Carl Paul is making plans to acquire additional space
next to the store where he can create a classroom and offer more training on car detailing. Owning their own business is just a way to do what they truly love: educating others and giving back to their community. “We couldn’t have done this without our customers and the car community,” Graciela noted. “We’ve gotten a lot of love from the Bay Area as a whole.” Cans and Cars is held 8-10 a.m. the last Sunday of the month in front of Detail Garage, 1853 Monument Blvd., Concord.
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Concord/Clayton Market Update CONCORD
PRICE
4130 Wilson Lane . . . . . . . . . $1,225,000 5080 Valley Crest Dr #24. . . . . $431,000 1583 Denkinger Rd . . . . . . . . . $670,000 3711 Sanford St . . . . . . . . . . . . $992,000 4549 Coolidge St . . . . . . . . . $1,000,000 2921 Brookdale Ct . . . . . . . . . . $865,000 5209 Jomar Dr . . . . . . . . . . . . . $900,000
SF
. .1795 . .1080 . .1445 . .2477 . .2200 . .1688 . .2008
provided by Better Homes Realty
BED/BATH DATE
. .4/2 . . .5/17/21 . .2/2 . . .5/18/21 . .3/2.5 . .5/18/21 . .5/3 . . .5/21/21 . .4/2 . . .5/24/21 . .3/1.5 . .5/26/21 . .4/2 . . .5/28/21
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284 Mountaire Pkwy . . . . . . $1,465,000 3103 Coyote Cir . . . . . . . . . . . $605,000 60 Marquette Ct . . . . . . . . . $1,060,000 5669 Pine Hollow Rd . . . . . $1,425,000 1480 Yosemite Cir. . . . . . . . $1,050,000 5155 Keller Ridge Dr. . . . . . $1,120,000 120 Forest Hill Dr . . . . . . . . $1,550,000
SF
. .2960 . .1252 . .1568 . .3054 . .2015 . .2313 . .3455
BED/BATH
DATE
. . .5/3 . . . . .5/4/21 . . .2/2.5 . .5/12/21 . . .3/2 . . . .5/12/21 . . .4/3.5 . .5/19/21 . . .3/2 . . . .5/19/21 . . .4/2.5 . .5/26/21 . . .5/3.5 . .6/10/21
Big-hearted community opens little library June 18, 2021
The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com
Page 3
Celebrating
Rochelle
Cloven
demic isolation, noting that a reclusive mix of retirees, contractors, artists, tradespeople and out-and-out hermits came together to build something wonderful. People donated bookcases and hundreds of books while also producing signage and shelving labels. A picnic table and other outdoor seating appeared one morning. Artist Iris Moore painted a Steller’s jay on the side of the building to the delight of the few passersby on the private road that runs through the canyon.
PAMELA MICHAEL Special to the Pioneer
The world’s oldest known library was founded in the 7th century B.C. in Nineveh (in modern-day Iraq). It housed a trove of some 30,000 clay cuneiform tablets, organized according to subject matter. The new Curry Canyon Library can’t boast cuneiform tablets, but it is the pride of the residents of a Morgan Territory Pamela Michael trailer park who recently created On book sorting and shelving day, volunteer librarians the library in a 100 sq. ft. cinder brought their dogs – one in a sling, the other on a blanket. block building that had been boarded up for decades. turn it into a library. He readily After installing donated hardwood floors and solar agreed, and over the next few LUSH, SCENIC SETTING COMMUNITY EFFORT lighting, they created not only months, a dedicated cadre of The building had once been Earlier this year, trailer park folks smashed commodes, a charming, well-stocked and a three-stall public bathroom in resident Delrecia Roy asked her shoveled out a foot of squirrel- organized free lending library, Curry Creek Picnic Park. A landlord’s business manager if stashed acorns, cleaned, hambut a newfound sense of family recreation destination she and her neighbors could mered, sawed and painted the community as well. reclaim the old bathroom and tiny space. One resident credited panSee Library, page 10
Clayton planning commissioner says civic club gets inside info in exchange for ‘donations’ to city TAMARA STEINER The Pioneer
A Clayton planning commissioner recently set off a firestorm of controversy when he accused another planning commissioner of giving inside information to a local civic club in exchange for that organization’s donations to the city. At the May 18 city council meeting, Frank Gavidia, speaking as a planning commissioner during the public comment period, told the council he found out the results of a planning commission vote on a matter from which he was recused at a Clayton Business and Community Association meeting two days after the vote. The planning commission traditionally reports recent actions and votes during the regular CBCA membership meeting. Gavidia, apparently unaware
paid for the downthat the vote was public town holiday decorarecord as soon as it was tions and a few beautitaken, said the CBCA fication projects, all of got the information “before the taxpayers” which are considered because the CBCA “in kind” donations. “…happens to give Never has the money to the city… CBCA given money to that’s just not right.” the city, CouncilmemFRANK The accusation is ber Holly Tillman told GAVIDIA false, said CBCA presthe council in ident John Rubiales in a response to Gavidia’s claim. Tillstrongly worded four-page man was a CBCA board memstatement sent to Clayton ber until her election to the council in 2020. mayor Carl Wolfe May 27. “The CBCA does a lot of “The simple reason Gavidia found out about the vote at the good, and their name should not CBCA meeting was because he be tainted,” Tillman told the recused himself and left the council at the June 1 meeting. planning commission meeting “No one’s getting favors for donating anything.” before (the vote).” “Frank Gavidia’s allegation The CBCA holds festivals and events to raise money for that CBCA happens to give charitable giving and scholar- money to the city in return for ships. Some funds are used to information unavailable to the support city concerts in The public undermines the very Grove. The club has traditionally foundation CBCA’s of
Clayton Valley Charter High
2021 Class of
Future plans —
Cal Poly San Luis Obispo Congratulations Rochelle! We are proud of you beyond measure for graduating from Clayton Valley Charter High School and its Engineering Academy. Now it is off to Cal Poly San Luis Obisbo’s Business School to new adventures, opportunities, and a chance to spread your wings and fly! Anything is possible if you believe in yourself. Love Always, Mom & Dad
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existence,” Rubiales said. Gavidia’s charge came during a council discussion on whether planning commissioners should report recent commission votes to CBCA at all to avoid any potential Brown Act violation. CBCA members include city council members who could potentially be hearing an appeal at a later date. In an abundance of caution, city attorney Mala Subramanian advised the planning commission not to discuss land use matters in their CBCA reports. The CBCA board has moved to terminate Gavidia’s membership along with that of long-time member and councilman Jim Diaz, whose comments the board views as supporting Gavidia’s claim. Gavida ran unsuccessfully for the city council in 2020. He has not responded to our request for comment.
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Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01527235. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been veriAll verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. fied. All measurements and square footage are approximate.
Newhall Community Park an oasis for ducks and dogs
Page 4
The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com
June 18, 2021
KARA NAVOLIO Correspondent
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Editor’s Note: This is the fourth in a series on Clayton and Concord parks. Although Newhall Community Park is the city’s largest park, it’s surprisingly easy to feel like you have found a bit of paradise in the middle of a busy city. People visit this 126-acre area for the dog park, sports fields and bocce courts, or just to walk on the many trails. There are gravel paths around the developed areas and dirt trails in the open space that surround the park. A large pond is full of ducks and other water birds; during the wet months it is fed by Galindo Creek, which borders the east side. “We love the ducks and the walking trails,” said Amy Weld, a mother of two. “We enjoy them while my other son plays soccer. And the playground is great for the little ones, too.” The city purchased the first 60 acres of the park in the 1960s from the Newhall Land & Farming Co., according to Chuck Gabrysiak, a former city employee. It started as open space with just the pond and some trails. As the neighborhoods around the park were built, it expanded with the sports fields, bocce courts and dog
Kara Navolio
A walk around the duck pond at Newhall Park is a peaceful respite its urban surroundings.
park. Concord Bocce Federation operates the eight bocce courts in an agreement with the city. While the courts have been closed during the pandemic, they will reopen this month (assuming health restrictions allow it). To join a league or reserve a court, find more information at concordbocce.org. The park also features a Vietnam Veterans Memorial, a playground, a butterfly garden and a group picnic area. On a recent weekday afternoon, friends met for a walk along the gravel perimeter path, kids ran to soccer practices, moms pushed strollers, families took photos of ducks, and a handful of dog owners
chatted while their dogs ran and played together. “When Rollie comes here, he makes it a point to meet all the people,” said Elaine Nagano, Rollie’s owner and a 30-year Concord resident. “It’s his favorite place to be. When he’s happy, I’m happy. People are different when they’re with their dogs; they’re more friendly. Dogs bring out the smiles.” There are areas sectioned off for large dogs and small dogs so they can run and socialize on luscious green grass. Whether seeking a quiet respite with beautiful views of Mt. Diablo or recreational activities like hiking, sports or dog social time, Newhall awaits you.
Here’s why fireworks are illegal
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Photos by David Scholz
This presentation by Contra Costa Fire Protection District officials on Thursday, June 10, to raise awareness about the dangers of using illegal fireworks dramatically demonstrates how one wayward firework device, ending up in a gutter, may seemingly start small, just alighting tinder dry weeds. However, soon fire will spread out of sight through the interior. After just a few minutes, the flames consume the entire roof.
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Advocates say additional rent relief still not enough June 18, 2021
DAVID SCHOLZ Correspondent
Potential actions to extend additional relief to local renters at a June 30 special City Council meeting are welcome, but housing advocates say it’s a Band-Aid
The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com
for problems that require longterm solutions. That meeting will only feature discussions for extending the temporary COVID-19 related moratorium on evictions and caps on residential rent increases through September or later. If at
Help for landlords
Help for landlords ECHO Housing, 925-732-3919 or contact@echofairhousing.org. California Apartment Association, 800-967-4222 or caanet.org. City of Concord Housing Division, cityofconcord.org/Housing.
Services for tenants
ECHO Housing, compliance, tenant counseling and legal services. 925-732-3919 or contact@echofairhousing.org. City of Concord Housing Division, general housing-related questions. cityofconcord.org/309/Housing-Division. Monument Impact, tenant rental assistance. 925-695-1802 or housing@monumentimpact.org. Shelter, Inc., tenant rental assistance. 925-338-1038 or shelterinc.org/renthelp. Residential Tenant Protection Program Ordinance, cityofconcord.org/Housing.
Marshall, from page 1 over 22 miles of trails, camping facilities and picnic areas. One year ago, the Concord City Council supported Concord Hills Regional Park as the name after reviewing community surveys, which always had Concord Hills Regional Park as the top choice. There was also always support for a name to honor Native Americans, others mentioned recognizing the Town of Port Chicago and there were also suggestions to incorporate the land’s military history in the name. At its final May meeting the Concord City Council voted 50 to endorse the Park District’s name choice. Councilman Edi
Birsan unsuccessfully suggested the Council request Concord be incorporated in the name. A significant national figure, Thurgood Marshall has a direct connection with the Concord Naval Weapons Station site. During World War II with a segregated military, Black sailors were assigned the dangerous task of loading munitions at Port Chicago Naval Magazine on the waterfront. It was a 24 hour a day operation with limited safety precautions under the direction of White officers. 320 KILLED IN BLAST On July 17, 1944, two vessels filled with ammunition
Odyssey, from page 1
other team from the school had managed to do even under normal circumstances – when students can work side-by-side for the entire school year. When everything else shut down, Culp was overjoyed that Odyssey chose not to follow suit. “It was something to look forward to. Being at home and sheltering in place and distance learning, Odyssey gave them an outlet for creativity,” said Culp, who serves as a K-8 substitute teacher at the school and an advisor to various teams at the elementary, middle school and high school levels. The experience is not like school and it’s not homework. It’s more of a mental exercise in which one is asked to think outside the box. “There is no right or wrong answer,” said Culp. “That’s what is so good about it – life is not black and white.” AN EXPERIENCED GROUP Culp said it was valuable that the team included many members from the prior year, especially when dealing with obstacles and adversity brought on by COVID-19. “They knew what they had to do and they were able to adapt quickly,” she said. “They persevered.” Culp saw an excitement growing among the team when they knew they had something great. “Then it started to click.” The problem facing the team was to develop a cliffhanger “ending “ putting a superhero character in a perilous situation caused by the adversary character. For the eventual 8-minute skit, the girls voted to set their story in an Old Folks home with two eld-
Hannah Laverick (left) and Julia Dent use a chop saw to cut the piping for walkers as part of the team's Odyssey of the Mind skit. (Contributed photo)
erly sisters. The 87-year old was the Superhero, and 85year old sibling would be the adversary. Still holding a grudge when her sister took her cookies away as child, the younger sister tried harming her sister by pushing her outside during a blizzard, switching her pills, and cheating at a bingo game. The elder stopped her sister’s evil plans by putting on the Super Socks which gives her the ability to move at lightning speed. In the end, the sisters make up. With spending limited to $125, backdrops and props for the skit were made from cardboard, sheets, fabric, paint, tarps, cotton balls, PVC pipes, and rubber bands. Rubber loom bands were looped together to look like knitting squares for the knitting circle scene. Flour to mimic grey hair and makeup further helped transform members into the elderly characters. After finishing second at regionals, their attitude turned to “We want to make it better.” Ten-year-old Charlotte of
least four council members approve actions on these issues, they would occur through emergency ordinances. “We are going to have one shot at this,” said Councilmember Edi Birsan, who has been a staunch ally of tenant concerns over the years. These relief issues currently serve the needs of tenants affected by COVID-19. Housing advocates, however, want the city’s relief to serve all tenants – suggesting they are all feeling the lingering economic effects of the global pandemic. Factors influencing where individual council members will land on the featured items may include how long these relief issues are allowed to remain in place and how much liability they want the city to shoulder if landlords take action over the losses they have sustained. Carlyn Councilmember Obringer has added her voice to those of Vice Mayor Dominic Aliano and Birsan, who have placed increased focus on tenant issues. “My main focus right now is
exploded killing 320 men – mostly Black teenagers—and injuring 390 others. The explosion blew out windows as far away as San Francisco and accounted for one quarter of all African American deaths in the war. Soon after the explosion, Black sailors were ordered to return to work loading munitions. Fifty men who refused the assignment were charged with mutiny and eventually dishonorably discharged. They became known as the Port Chicago 50. Marshall was then lead counsel of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People and accepted the Port Chicago 50’s request to observe their court martial trial. Clayton saw the experience as a way to express one’s creative side with writing and building and to “bond with the team.” “It is fun to be part of your team and figuring stuff out,” she said. The girls started writing the script via Zoom in November, put it in high gear building backdrops and props in January, and filming for the first competition in February. “They hunkered down, and they were not going to let anything get in their way,” said Culp. “Time, COVID or weather – nothing was going to stop them.’’ Julia, 11, of Clayton, veteran of the squad who is moving on to 6th grade and hopes to continue Odyssey as a chance to meet new kids, recalls how the stress level went down as they moved through the competition and team members gained the creative skills needed to answer questions during the “Spontaneous” part of the competition.
THE ART OF COMPROMISE With this group, Culp said the team members recognized when someone else’s idea was better for the good of the presentation. Charlotte said Odyssey helped the team break free from being afraid to try things and they felt comfortable sharing ideas, even if they might be wrong. “You won’t be wrong as long as you have tried your best and given your best effort,” she said. For Clayton resident Avica, 10, it all wouldn’t have mattered if they were not having fun while doing it. “I had awesome teammates who made it fun,” she said. In fact, fun is among Culp’s top 10 rules for Odyssey.
to ensure that people remain housed while they await the rental funding relief that the state has promised but has been slow to get it into the hands of those who need it,” she said. “The council directed the Housing and Economic Development Committee to hold a meeting to learn more about the issue of harassment,” she added. “I have also let five tenants in my district who reached out to me about this topic know that I am available to meet with them to learn more about their experiences and concerns.” Eduardo Torres, the northern regional coordinator with the housing advocate group Tenants Together, called it “a
Page 5
very dire situation for those folks who have lost income and are faced with back rent and eviction from landlords who are not so forgiving.” “You should be able to feel secure that you have a roof over your head and are not coming home to feeling the anxiety from the landlords who are threatening eviction,” Torres noted. While some tenants in the community are feeling the hardships, more than 80 percent of renters have actually been able to weather the last 15 months and keep up with their payments thanks to landlords who have worked out programs with their tenants,
according to Mayor Tim McGallian. He acknowledged the desire to do more for tenants but added that in serving the needs of one side in the housing debate, fairness to the other side is required, too. He cited landlords, for example, who need protection for their interests when dealing with disruptive tenants. As housing advocates continue pressing for more longterm policies, McGallian hopes these individuals will continue their efforts to make sure tenants are using the resources that Concord’s Housing Division has in place that serve landlords and tenants alike.
¡La Ayuda está Disponible para Pagos de Alquiler y Servicios Legales!
ECHO Housing, Cumplimiento, Asesoramiento de Inquilinos y Servicios Legales. 925-7323919 or contact@echofairhousing.org. División de Vivienda de la Ciudad de Concord, Preguntas Generales Relacionadas con la Vivienda. cityofconcord.org/309/Housing-Division. Monument Impact, Asistencia de Alquiler de Inquilinos. 925-695-180 or housing@monumentimpact.org. Shelter, Inc., Asistencia de Alquiler de Inquilinos. 925-338-1038 or shelterinc.org/renthelp.
THURGOOD MARSHALL
The national attention the disaster and treatment of the Black sailors drew eventually led to President Harry Truman in 1948 signing Executive Order 9981 desegregating the military and was a precursor of the civil rights movement. The CNWS continued to operate as a base through the Korean and Vietnam wars and the Cold War until it was placed in a reduced operational capacity in 1999. There were many anti-war protests there during the Vietnam era. FIRST BLACK ON HIGHEST COURT
Marshall went on to become the first African American appointed to the Supreme Court in 1967, serving until 1991. He was nominated by President Lyndon Johnson and retired during George H. W. Bush’s presidency. Marshall died in 1993 at the age of 84. President Barack Obama established the Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial in 2009. The drive to attach Marshall’s name to the Concord park site began this year among
park district employees. In her May 11 staff report to the EBRPD board executive committee, new general manager Sabrina Landreth said, “Staff fully support the name ‘Thurgood Marshall Regional Park – Home of the Port Chicago 50’ as a name that celebrates African American history, honors the history of the site and allows for deeper exploration of themes of equality, safe working conditions, social justice and protest.” The name was endorsed by the District’s Black Employee Collective, numerous NAACP chapters and local elected officials Congressman Mark DeSaulnier, Assemblyman Tim Grayson and State Sen. Steve Glazer. The local park, the 73rd in the largest regional park system in America, will feature a visitor center jointly operated with the National Park Service offering information about the 1944 Port Chicago explosion and its aftermath. This is the first regional park in Contra Costa County to be named after an African American. CNWS DEVELOPMENT STATUS
Development of the other half of the CNWS property on the land closest to the rest of Concord with housing, retail, office and parks has been on hold after master developer Lennar Concord LLC dropped out last year in a dispute over the city’s Concord First policy, which requires 40 percent of construction labor be local hires and payment of prevailing wage on all construction. Director of Community Reuse Planning Guy Bjerke
expects to have multiple submissions to the city’s request for master developer qualifications due June 18. Interviews and review of applicants will take place this summer. Council expects to wrap up the process and finalize an Exclusive Negotiating Agreement by Sept. 23.
For more information and photos of Thurgood Marshall Regional Park – Home of the Port Chicago 50 visit PioneerPublishers.com.
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From the Desk of... Thanks to vaccination effort, summer events are ready to roll
Page 6
The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com
Fifteen months after the city of Concord declared a state of emergency, closed facilities and canceled programs to stop the spread of the coronavirus, it finally
feels like life is starting to return to pre-pandemic normal. And that means summer fun. We all know that more community events and cele-
Clayton’s Pride shows in new flag
CARL “CW” WOLFE
CLAYTON MAYOR
brations can happen once we all get vaccinated. The United States has set a goal of getting 70 percent of people to have their first shot by July 4, and so far Concord is at 62.4 percent. Let’s keep it going and reach that goal. Everyone 12 and older is eligible, and there are multiple sites where you can get the vaccine today. Visit cchealth.org for more information. Our debut community event is also one of my favorites, the Concord July 4th fireworks. This will be the eighth year we have held a celebration in Concord. Planning takes several months, and we didn’t have the green light to move forward on the run, parade and festival. But we did get the OK for a dazzling fireworks show, which will be hosted at the Concord Pavilion. This year’s celebration will be a drive-in style event featuring Pyro Spectacular’s award-winning fireworks show set to music. It will be
the largest fireworks display ever seen in Concord. Tickets are $25 per car. Gates open at 7 p.m., and the fireworks will begin at dark. We only have 1,000 tickets available – so be sure to purchase yours soon at concordjuly4th.com. Thank you to all of our sponsors, especially title sponsor Marathon Petroleum, for making this event possible. I am also excited to announce that after a successful high school graduation season, concerts are returning to the Pavilion. The first show – Spirit West Coast 2021 – is set for July 18. From August through October, the Pavilion will be hosting King Crimson with the Zappa Band, the Black Crowes, Megadeth and Lamb of God, Lindsey Stirling, Alanis Morissette and Maroon 5. More information is available at liventaion.com. And what’s a summer in Concord without our Music
Flags Hurricane has reopened and Pixieland Amusement Park is scheduled to open this month. Our Parks & Rec is still accepting registration for several youth summer camps. Whether your child wants to splash in the pool, learn how to cook or play a new sport this summer, our team has the best camps for kids. TIM MCGALLIAN Learn more and register at CONCORD MAYOR cityofconcord.org/summercamps. Finally, I just want to say and Market at Todos Santos thank you for your patience Plaza? We are working hard to schedule some concerts in and resilience over the last 15 months. the park before summer is I know it has been diffiover. Stay tuned to our webcult to miss out on more site and social media channels over the coming weeks. than a year of our favorite activities and traditions, but If you’re a farmers marsummer fun is on the horiket fan, you’ll be pleased to know that our hot food ven- zon. Please get vaccinated, and dors will be returning to our I hope you and your family Tuesday market in Todos get outside to play and enjoy Santos Plaza. Stop by to enjoy falafels, grilled teriyaki, our return to normalcy. shawarma and kettle corn – Mayor Tim McGallian can be and don’t forget to pick up reached at 925.671.2489 or email your farm fresh produce. For more family fun, Six Tim.McGallian@cityofconcord.org
ConFire is taking this issue seriously and has set up a hotline to report sales of illegal fireworks in the county. You can call 1-866-50-ARSON. Last month, ConFire responded to a fire ignited by a mortar-style firework that two juveniles launched into a hillside before fleeing the scene. The fire burned dangerously close to homes and the DVC campus. The two youth were detained and later released to their parents. ConFire arson investigators will refer the case to the Contra Costa County Juvenile District Attorney on charges of unlawful fire and possession of fireworks. The juvenile suspects will also be referred to Con Fire’s Youth Fire Setter Program. Not only are fireworks dangerous and could cause an inferno that destroys homes and property but using them could result in significant
criminal penalties. Last July, the East County Fire Protection District levied fines in excess of $25,000 for an illegal firework show. Illegal fireworks include bottle rockets, roman candles, firecrackers and sparklers. Sparklers can reach 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit and account for most fireworksrelated injuries to children age 5 and under. While they may seem fun, illegal fireworks are never worth the cost. However, I am excited to share that this year you can attend legal firework shows this Fourth of July hosted by cities in Central County. Concord will be putting on a firework display at the Concord Pavilion; gates open at 7 p.m. You can find more information at cityofconcord.org. Pleasant Hill will host be hosting a firework show at College Park starting at 9:15
Karen Mitchoff is Contra Costa County District IV supervisor. Email questions or comments to Mitchoff at supervisormitchoff@bos.cccounty.us
increase our budget reserves. California’s state tax revenues are highly dependent upon gains from the sales of TIM GRAySON capital assets and compensa14TH ASSEMBLY tion from stock grants, restricted stock units, stock DISTRICT options and bonus payments Following months of hear- that the Governor’s Budget ings, discussions and debates, and the May Revision rightly characterize as “inherently my colleagues in the Legislature and I will work with Gov. unpredictable.” When those resources dry Gavin Newsom this month to up, they can do so in a big pass and finalize our state’s way. Too many families are budget. still feeling the financial pain I’ve been working hard to of the Dot-Com bubble burst ensure that we pass a budget in the early 2000s, which cost that prioritizes both urgent the state about $80 billion concerns created by the over three years, and more COVID-19 health crisis and the Great Recession, recently, our long-term fiscal chalwhich cost the state about lenges. $115 billion over four years. The social and economic These multi-year, devastating impacts of the pandemic have recessions proved to us that in hit Californians – especially the absence of sufficient our most vulnerable – hard. reserves, the combination of Last year has reminded us all volatile revenues from unprejust how quickly our economic dictable sources is lethal to a fortunes can change. This is budget that must provide prewhy Assemblymember Tom dictable funding to public Daly and I have authored a services. letter urging the governor to
California’s chief non-partisan financial analyst believes that the state will need $40 billion in savings to battle a moderate recession, and yet the governor currently only proposes $24 billion of reserves. I’m proud that earlier this month 16 of my colleagues from across the state joined Daly and me in urging the governor to commit to our state’s long-term fiscal health and instead increase these reserves. Our schools, firefighters and local state healthcare professionals are counting on us to be responsible stewards of state funds and to do all that we can to protect these critical programs from the draconian cuts of years past. In order to safeguard the state from the volatility of Wall Street and keep future generations from being saddled with our debt, we must sufficiently save when we have the opportunity to do so. With the state’s multi-billion dollar
surplus and the federal government providing $25 billion of one-time funds, there has never been a better time to save state revenues. In addition to increasing our reserves, I’ve been outspoken about our need to use the budget to create jobs and revitalize our economy, support small businesses, address our housing and homelessness crises, and help organizations directly providing lifesaving services to those in need, such as family justice centers. It is my hope that we can use the budget to deliver real results and support for Californians and families across our state. If you would like to learn more about my fiscal and budget priorities, or connect with me on matters that are important to you, please contact me at my Concord district office at 925-521-1511. Reach Assemblyman Tim Grayson at (925) 521-1511. Visit or write the district office 2151 Salvio Street, Suite P, Concord, CA 94520
awards for their outstanding character and leadership in “Integrity,” “Courage” and “Responsibility.” Thanks goes out to their teachers and principals for all their help. Our future is in good hands. Well done. Also, a big congratulations to MDE students Avica Bennet, Keira Caldwell, Julia Dent, Emma Forrester, Charlotte King and Hannah Laverick for their achievement in reaching the world championship finals in the Odyssey of the Mind competition. Never has a team from Clayton reached this milestone and we are very proud of them and their coach, Renee Culp. As you know, California is amid the second worst drought in its history, as well as the earliest fire season on record. It is important for us all to pitch in and do our part in conserving water and to help eliminate any possibility of fire. While Clayton has a limitKAREN MITCHOFF ed maintenance staff and our COUNTY state representatives are SUPERVISOR exploring legislative action, our citizens can be helpful and proactive. With the Fourth of July Here are just a few tips to around the corner and high save water. Fix leaks, water spirits in the community as we plants and lawns less often, look forward to celebrating in sweep driveways instead of person again with our family washing them, run water only and friends, it’s more imporwhen necessary and reuse tant than ever to be mindful water whenever possible. of the danger of illegal fireTo protect from fire, cut works. back trees and brush from Because we have a historic around your home, clear drought upon us and fire seadebris from gutters, check son is already in full swing, smoke alarms, put together an illegal fireworks could prove emergency preparedness kit disastrous. Though they might and plan an escape route that be labeled “safe and sane,” all also includes your pets. fireworks are illegal across all Be sure to sign up for the cities and unincorporated Contra Costa County Comareas of Contra Costa County munity Warning System at because they could be the cwsalerts.com for emergency cause of the next major fire text alerts sent directly to your that claims lives and property. mobile phone. Let’s all get safely through this together. Finally, just a reminder that all personal fireworks are illegal in Contra Costa County. Please have a safe 4th of July.
Your City Council has reaffirmed its support for June as Pride Month, and we again proudly fly the Pride flag on our city’s flag poles. You may have noticed that there is a new design. This flag, known as the Progress Flag, incorporates the Rainbow Flag with the added colors of white, pink, light blue, brown and black in a chevron design on the left-hand side. To know more about the meaning of these colors or to learn about the various flags and their history, please visit rd.com. June is also officially known as Portuguese Heritage Month in Clayton. In September 1542, explorer Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo sailed into San Diego Bay and became the first European to explore the land now known as California. He is credited with numerous costal discoveries. Portuguese Heritage Month honors Portuguese history and the friendship between Portugal and the United States. Go to portuguese-american-journal.com to learn more. Congratulations to all the “Do the Right Thing” students honored for school year 2020-’21. From Mt. Diablo Elementary: Daelyn Chippero, Emma Del Bianco, Cole Branich, Rory HousemanThygesen, Summer Contreras and Parker Gabriel. From Diablo View Middle School: Yoseph Sakhi, Corinne Jeandheur, Ruby Nunez, Sophia Pritchard, Hannah Thornberg, Malia Quesada and Brooke Send questions and comments Rooney. to cwolfe@ci.clayton.ca.us, or call These students earned (925) 673-7324
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Fireworks are illegal. ConFire taking enforcement seriously
p.m. Learn more at phjuly4.com. Last Fourth of July, ConFire responded to more than 50 fires in the 9 p.m. hour. Resources were stretched so thin that engine companies could only respond to active structure fires. 2020 was not, however, a critical drought year with conditions as dry as they are. So as we look to this coming Fourth of July, please stay safe and leave the pyrotechnics to the professionals. I also encourage everyone to sign up for our Community Warning System alerts (cwsalerts.com) and PulsePoint for fire and hazard emergency alerts (web.pulsepoint.org).
We must increase state budget reserves to head off recession
Obituary
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Frank Edward Snyder December 30, 1941 – May 12, 2021
Frank Edward Snyder, 79, of Concord, CA, passed away peacefully in the early morning on May 12, 2021. Frank, a loving son, brother, husband, father, papa, and coach was born the middle child of five in Payson, Utah to Jeanette and Theron Snyder. At age 11, Frank, along with his parents and younger siblings, Gary and Rita, made the move from Utah to Concord. His brother Lamar and sister Donna remained in Utah. There in Concord, Frank made a name for himself as a three sport athlete, playing baseball, basketball and football. Frank attended Mt. Diablo High School, but eventually transferred to Clayton Valley High School where he became a member of their first graduating class. Even though Frank excelled in both baseball and basketball in high
school, baseball was his passion. Turning down a signing bonus from the Orioles out of high school, Frank chose to attend Brigham Young University on a baseball scholarship because he wanted an education. After graduating from BYU in 1965, Frank continued to play semi-pro baseball and also found a new passion for coaching. Being a coach was everything Frank was—being tough, competitive, positive, and spreading knowledge. He would go on to coach all levels and taught physical education at Oak Grove Elementary and Diablo View Middle School. “Call Me Coach,” is how he would always introduce himself, and you couldn’t have asked for a better coach. Even more than baseball and coaching, Frank loved his wife and his family. Frank would marry his love of 52
years, Susan Voortmeyer. and in 1972 he would establish himself as a loving father to his son, Kevin. Frank loved adventure and would love to visit Alaska, Utah, Monterey, Hawaii, and Mexico all with his wife by his side. If not coaching, traveling, or spending time with family Frank would be fishing or hunting with friends. He loved the outdoors and was a frequent angler at Lafayette Reservoir. In his spare time, he loved to watch ball games or westerns. Frank will be dearly missed for his smile, attitude, and
Cannabis, from page 1
as the second selection – again noting the freeway access, parking and business plan along with security measures. “We have a trusted safe and compliant reputation, with no citations and no complaints in any of our operating markets,” COO Devon Julian said of the network of retail cannabis stores throughout California. “We have worked hard to set ourselves up to be one of the best brands and companies to work with because of how we conduct our business.” Concord will be Culture’s first venture in the East Bay, with Julian saying the store would be ready to open by November 2021.
GOING COASTAL Coastal’s plan for a retail store at 1847 Willow Pass Road in the Park & Shop came in third by a 3-2 vote. “I believe we are one of the top operators in the state of California, and there are a few reasons for that,” said Coastal’s general counsel Cameron Gharabiklou. “We built our company for the long haul; we understand that each store must respect and collaborate with the local community; and we represent a premiere, welcoming but safe shopping space. The company targets an October 2021 opening. “Coastal is ready and excited not only to move into Park & Shop but to be part of the Park & Shop revitalization,” community relations manager Keith Burks told the council. Obringer and Council member Laura Hoffmeister voted for Embarc at 1770 Willow Pass Road, also in Park & Shop, as their third choice. “I think Embarc had a better location, better security and safety plan to present to that community in that area,” Hoffmeister said. McGallian disagreed. “I felt that Coastal had a better ability to have parking at that end of Park & Shop, and I felt the impact would overall be the least as related to parking. I also felt Coastal was stronger as related to business acumen.” After hearing proposals from the top six applicants, the council voted Embarc in fourth position, MMD in fifth and Element 7 in sixth. The top three businesses have until July 23 to submit applications for city cannabis licenses. Each business must
925-381-3757
also enter into a development agreement that will determine what contributions it will make to the city.
QUESTIONS ABOUT COCO FARMS SITE May’s review of the storefront locations followed April’s selection of CoCo Farms and Infinity Concord to apply for cannabis microbusinesses licenses and Medusa Delivery as a non-storefront retailer that’s not part of a microbusiness. Since then, several community advocates have contacted the Pioneer and the city with concerns about the CoCo Farms location at 2366 Stanwell Circle. In a guest editorial, Emily Webb noted that the Concord Women, Infants and Children (WIC) office is less than 90 feet away and a county adolescent outpatient substance use treatment facility is 300 feet away. “We think that it does not send a caring, considerate and supportive message to WIC clients and adolescents facing addiction,” wrote Webb, who is the coordinator for the Monument Youth Drug and Alcohol Coalition. However, McGallian said that “technically, legally, those are not considered sensitive uses according to the state guidelines.” He told the Pioneer that he expects that the CoCo Farms application process “would be fine.”
light he brought to his family, students, and friends. He is preceded in death by his mother Jeanette, father Theron, brothers Lamar and Gary, and friends. Today, Frank is survived by his sisters Donna and Rita, wife Susan, son Kevin, and grandkids Jacob, Gracie, Dylan, and Justin, along with many other family, students, and friends. There was a celebration of Frank’s life June 1 at Moore’s Mission Funeral home in Concord. He was laid to rest in his home state in Cedar City, Utah as he wished.
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Page 8
The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com
June 18, 2021
June 18, 2021
The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com
Page 9
Views on homeless issues in Concord – and the recall of Newsom Page 10
The second part of my survey focused on issues around homelessness, with 635 participants. While the congregate numbers give an idea of overall sentiments, it is interesting to find out if there is some commonality in sentiments that are somewhat opposed to each other. Age was not a real significant factor. To a small extent, zip code 94521 responses were in the opposite direction
The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com
June 18, 2021
Q. Do you believe that if Concord provides more services for people experiencing homelessness that more unhoused people will come to Concord? 40 percent yes. (Recall: 70 percent yes, 21 percent no.) 28 percent maybe. (Recall: Q. Should the city provide 14 percent yes, 38 percent no.) Q. Should homeless structured campsites for peoQ. Should homeless encampments be allowed 16 percent not sure. (Recall: ple experiencing homelessencampments be allowed in under bridges and/or along 9 percent yes, 19 percent no.) EDI BIRSAN 16 percent no. (Recall: 6 perness? public parks? creek/stream/river beds? PULSE OF cent yes, 22 percent no.) 22 percent yes. (Recall: 10 6 percent yes. (Recall: 2 16 percent yes. (Recall: 6 Additional comments (54) percent yes, 30 percent no.) percent yes, 27 percent no.) CONCORD ranged in tone from “It should 5 percent yes – and I will 64 percent no. (Recall: 84 volunteer to help. (Recall: 2 per- not stop us from doing the yes, 53 percent no.) 9 percent not sure. right thing” to “Let us force cent yes, 7 percent no.) (*34 12 not sure. (Recall: 6 per7 percent other. Ranging other communities to do more” people please contact me at cent yes, 15 percent no.) from “We need more public to “Of course, you idiots.” EdiBirsan@gmail.com.) 8 percent other. Reflective facilities for everyone” to of above split. Clearly there is a community 6 percent yes – but only on “Where?” divide using the line of where the outskirts of the city. Q. Should private 39 percent yes – but only if people stand on the recall of One of the interesting mental health and addiction landowners be required to the governor. Some might argue things with this and the next services are provided. (Recall: allow homeless encampthat is reflective of the major question is the question of 29 percent yes, 45 percent no.) ments if their land is empty political parties. Regardless, it “where.” People do not want 7 percent not sure. or not in use? shows potential focus points in 20 percent no. (Recall: 41 7 percent yes. (Recall: 3 per- them in parks, under bridges or working on the problems of deduced that days of high surin riverbeds, as well as not on percent yes, 7 percent no.) cent yes, 10 percent no.) homeless folks in our commuface pressure were typically private property. Do we force More than 90 additional 76 percent no. (Recall: 89 nity. nicer than low pressure events. them to go to government-des- comments were added to the percent yes, 68 percent no.) Fast-forward to the late ignated camp areas with these responses, ranging from super 10 percent not sure. The above is the independent, 18th century in America and facilities as well as wherever harsh to “Housing is a right.” 7 percent other. Range individual opinion (where there is we find that two of our they want? Does providing reflective of above split. any) of Edi Birsan and not associatfounding fathers can also be cleanup and porta-potties in There seems to be support ed with or produced with the help of considered fathers of meteoreffect authorize the ad hoc (72 percent overall) for the city Q. Should the city provide any government entity either here or ology: Ben Franklin and encampments? to provide controlled encampporta-potties for homeless within A Galaxy Far, Far Away. Thomas Jefferson. ments with services. The probencampments? Please take the survey at pulseofconFranklin’s most famous Q. Should the city provide lem is where and at what cost 58 percent yes. (Recall: 35 cord.com. For City Council things, foray into meteorology was garbage service for homeless and who is to run it? And, what write to yes, 72 percent no.) percent his lightning experiment. encampments? 25 percent no. (Recall: 49 happens to those who refuse to Edi.Birsan@cityofconcord.org. However, he was also an 63 percent yes. (Recall: 41 percent yes, 11 percent no.) go into them? ardent weather observer. Noting that North American storms tend to move west to east, he predicted that with Sponsored Content the proper observations a storm’s course could be plotted. Jefferson also realized the value of recorded weather observations. His daily weather log, which spanned 17761818, included reports of temperature, wind and rainfall. kitchen or bathroom and/or a these areas are visited infrepotential buyers, which may As a legislator, Jefferson nice staging job are appealing improve offers and save time. quently, one can go years established a network of to the eye, it’s what’s found Better safe than sorry. So, without noticing a lurking observers in every county of below and above the home get it checked out one way or issue. Virginia. that tell the real story of the another. If you waive your inspecIn the early 19th century, SCOTT DENSLOW home’s condition. Scott Denslow is the owner of tion, consider getting one meteorologists understood the It is not uncommon to Safe at Home Inspection Service. after the purchase so you can value of combining weather ASK THE EXPERT inspect a beautifully remodHe is an InterNACHI and have peace of mind that your observations with forecasting, eled home and find plumbing ASHI certified inspector who has family and investment are but a major hurdle needed resWith today’s hot real estate damaged air ducts or leaks, 59 five-star ratings on Yelp. safe. olution. There was no quick market, one may feel tempted insulation, worn foundation Contact him at scott@safeatIf you are selling, consider way to transfer data from one to bypass a home inspection inspection. supports, leaking roof, etc. homellc.com. For more info visit getting a pre-listing location to another. In other to save time on escrow or This way you can offer a during a review of the crawlwww.safeathomellc.com. words, bad weather would increase bid attractiveness. See ad, page.16 home inspection report to space, attic or roof. Since arrive before any data that While new finishes in the might be used to forecast the event. That all changed with Samuel Morse’s invention of the telegraph in the mid-19th century. Combined with the data coding method he devised, it became possible to instantaneously send weather Last month, I introduced This mechanism is embod- the universe we observe today. information from one station you to the four fundamental ied in a particle called the Several experiments have to another, or to a central forces found in nature. Three Higgs boson, which was sub- revealed a slight imbalance receiving station. of them – the strong, weak sequently discovered nine between matter and antimatter, Telegraphed weather data and electromagnetic forces – years ago at the Large Hadron but we don’t know why. It delivered to government agen- are the foundation of the StanCollider in Geneva. remains one of the biggest cies made it possible to draw Now to another missing dard Model in particle physics. mysteries of particle physics. weather maps. Soon after, piece of the puzzle and this Antimatter is not just a The model classifies all weather forecasts were being product of the Big Bang and month’s topic: The Standard known elementary particles issued to the public. Model encompasses the exis- particle accelerators. Positronand describes how they interThese are a few of the emitting isotopes are used in tence of antimatter. We now act through the three forces. STEPHEN GOuRLAy early fathers of the science of Developed over the last half medical imaging as the basis know that every particle has meteorology who laid the century, it has been quite a of Positron Emission Tomogan antiparticle partner that SCIENCE BYTES foundation for the weather success. It predicted the exisraphy (PET). shares the same mass, but observation networks and tence of quarks that make up elementary particles. Antimatter can also be characteristics such as electric Though quite comprehen- charge are opposite. forecast models used today. the protons and neutrons that, found in your own home. in turn, make up the nuclei at sive, the Standard Model has a For example, a proton has Positrons are produced natufew holes in it. For one, we Woody Whitlatch is a meteorol- the heart of atoms. We now rally in the radioactive decay a charge of +1 and an ogist retired from PG&E. Email know that there are six quarks haven’t figured out how gravi- antiproton a charge of -1. The of certain elements. (Rememty fits in the model yet. A your questions or comments to that combine in various ways ber the Weak Force?) One existence of an antielectron, Grand Unified Theory, which or positron, was mathematiclayton_909@yahoo.com to make up a literal zoo of form of potassium can would include gravity, has yet cally predicted in 1928 by become argon by emitting a to be discovered. P.A.M. Dirac and subsequently positron. Your typical banana, In my first article, I which is rich in potassium, discovered in 1932 by Carl brought out neighbors rarely described the Scientific will emit a positron about Anderson. seen. Method and how scientists once every 75 minutes. Since then, beams of Property manager Craig create a simple model and For more details, visit positrons and antiprotons have After buying 1,430 acres in Schwab bought Skipolini’s pizza then, based on observation quantumdiaries.org/2009/07/ been generated by particle for the group and there was talk and experiment, modify it. In accelerators to study their 1895, the Olofson family 21/positrons-from-bananas/ of a new undertaking – buildthe simplest model of partiowned the extensive canyon interactions with matter. What or property. Sold off in pieces, the ing a bocce court on a flat sec- cles one can think of, they happens when matter and anti- home.cern/science/physics/ tion of creekside land near the have no mass. (Mass is how canyon is now home to a dog matter-antimatter-asymmetrymatter come together? They much stuff something has and annihilate in a burst of pure boarding kennel, several private library. problem. To the long list of library is fundamental.) homes, the vast Curry Canyon energy. Not at all compatible. builders, from Ptolemy to Ben Well, you don’t need to be Ranch now owned by Save Steve Gourlay is a career scienThe problem is that the a physicist to know that havMount Diablo and the 35-acre Franklin, please add the deterStandard Model predicts that tist with a PhD in experimental mined folks of Curry Canyon. ing no mass is wrong. After a matter and antimatter should particle physics. He recently retired Curry Creek Trailer Park. lot of work, physicists came be produced in exactly equal after working at the Fermi National Pamela Michael is an author up with something called the COULD BOCCE BE NEXT? amounts. If this were true, Accelerator Laboratory, CERN and communications specialist who Higgs mechanism that could Residents say the library is then the Big Bang would have (the European Center for Nuclear has lived in Curry Canyon for 20 explain how particles have quietly becoming a focal point Research) and the Lawrence Berkebeen a Big Fizzle producing mass. It is named after Peter for community gatherings. The years. Look for more from her in ley National Laboratory. Send nothing but energy. future issues of the Pioneer. Higgs, one of the physicists first event, the Curry Canyon Somehow, a tiny fraction of questions and comments to him at who proposed the idea. Library Grand Opening Potluck sgpntz@outlook.com. matter survived and became over Memorial Day weekend, of 94520. However, the biggest difference in groups seemed to whether they would vote yes (35 percent) to recall the governor as opposed to those who would vote no (55 percent). This is a significant swing from the average.
percent yes and 11 percent no.) 76 percent no. (Recall: 94 percent yes, 64 percent no.) 8 percent not sure. 11 percent other. Comments reflect above split, basically “Hell no” to “Housing is a right.”
percent yes, 77 percent no.) 24 percent no. (Recall: 47 percent yes, 11 percent no.) 7 percent not sure. 5 percent other. Comments range from “Pick up your own garbage” to “Only in city camps” to “No way.”
Tracking the science of weather – from Galileo to Morse
WOODY WHITLATCH
WEATHER WORDS
With Father’s Day approaching, it seems like an appropriate time to describe some of the early “fathers” of meteorology. The scientific approach to atmospheric physics, or meteorology, began in the 17th century with the development of instruments capable of measuring atmospheric properties. Galileo’s invention of the thermometer inaugurated this era. Later that century, meteorological knowledge increased with Evangelista Torricelli’s invention of the barometer. Blaise Pascal made a pivotal contribution to the science of meteorology when he carried a barometer up and down several flights of stairs to show that atmospheric pressure was linked to altitude. In the late 17th and early 18th centuries, a group of scientists associated with England’s Royal Society used deductive reasoning to analyze measured data and develop the physical laws and mathematical equations that govern atmospheric motions. Sir Isaac Newton is the most famous scientist of this era. Newton’s concept of gravity as a force and his mathematical description of the laws of motion opened the door to the study of weather. Other Royal Society members of this era whose works benefited the science of meteorology include Robert Boyle and Robert Hooke. Boyle’s gas law quantified the relationship between gas pressure, temperature and volume. Based on his work, scientists developed equations to calculate wind flow. Hooke cleverly combined barometric pressure readings with weather observations. He
Library, from page 3
from 1925 to 1979, it featured swimming, sports, camping, a pinball arcade, snack bar and even a dance floor. The popular park was on the eastern slope of Mount Diablo’s North Peak in Curry Canyon, a lush riparian corridor of blue oak, coastal live oak, bay laurel and sycamore along Curry Creek, which flows into the Marsh Creek watershed. The picturesque canyon has been the site of community gatherings, celebrations and recreation since the Volvon people, a Bay Miwok tribe, lived there centuries ago.
Skipping home inspection could lead to big problems
Exploring the antimatter mystery
High school journalists honored with writing awards June 18, 2021
The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com
place in arts and entertainment category for “Madrigals and Belle Voce.” Editors receiving outstanding awards included junior Jason Shin of CVCHS and sophomore Adelaide Berrett of Northgate. Karen Jenkins of Northgate was cited for adviser recognition.
JAY BEDECARRÉ The Pioneer
There is so much talk about the death of newspapers and the news now being circulated in Twitter messages of 280 characters, that it’s very refreshing to hear about the 2021 Lesher Awards for high school journalism excellence. More than 60 students from 13 Contra Costa schools were honored and Northgate and Clayton Valley Charter journalism programs garnered a dozen awards between them. Northgate came away with eight awards, including first place in overall publication excellence for schools with journalism clubs. Clayton Valley Charter was second in that category, among the four honors won by the Concord school. The California Scholastic Journalism Initiative announced the awards and honored the winners in a video ceremony last month. The competition is organized by CC Spin, a collaboration of
OTHER LOCAL
Meredith Edmonston photo courtesy CVCHS
Meredith Edmonston of Clayton Valley Charter won first place in the photography category of the annual Lesher Awards for Contra Costa high school student journalists. Her image titled “Homework” demonstrated that “distance learning has brought a new set of challenges for students. Many spend late nights swamped by their homework.”
CSJI, Dean & Margaret Lesher Foundation and Contra Costa County Office of Education. The Lesher Awards recognize excellence in news reporting, feature, sports, opinion writing, photography, editorial cartoons, design, podcasts and overall news publications. The competition is open to Contra
Costa high schools as part of the CC Spin newspaper program and is judged by five professional Bay Area journalists. Meredith Edmonston of the Clayton Valley Talon won first place photo of the year for “Homework.” Northgate freshman Mia Allyson Montifar took first
AWARD WINNERS: News – 2nd place freshman Natalie Villard of Northgate for her story on Michelle Alas “First student member of the 70-year-old MDUSD governing board.” Feature – Shin’s story “Diversity” tied for third place. Sports – Freshman Alex Hong of Northgate was given honorable mention for “Spectacular sports moments, movements and memories leave their mark in 2020.” Editorial – “Choosing a language? Northgate’s shrinking selection leaves much to be desired” editorial by sophomores Vivian Tanforan and
Queen Bees showcases elder actors
What happens when beloved actors, who once delighted us with memorable roles, get too gray to draw a younger audience? Aging happens, and script writers can only fill so many quirky/ wise/cantankerous grandparent roles. But every so often we get a film starring a group of elder treasures. Cocoon (1985), Joy Luck Club (1993), The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (2011), and Red (2010) come to mind. Queen Bees seeks a place as this year’s old-actors movie. Ellen Burstyn (88), Loretta Divine (71), Jane Curtin (73), and Ann-Margret (80) are the queens here, and watching them relish the chance for the spotlight is wonderful.
PETE CRuz
MOVIE REVIEW
tantly connects with other old people and regains her desire for life. Unfortunately, each character gets only one emotion to play. The grandson is earnest, the daughter is bitter. Jane Curtin is mean and Loretta Devine is brutally honest. We know these actors have range, but they don’t get much to work with. And the director can’t seem to start a scene that doesn’t involve someone knocking on the door and entering stage left. An 81-year-old James Caan stands out as Helen’s charming and persistent love interest. Loretta Devine steals all her scenes with the most genuinely funny lines. Ann-Margret is radiant during the later
scenes where she’s vulnerable, but cringey while hamming it up as the flirty sexpot. Queen Bees never rises beyond the level of a discarded Golden Girls script. The one plot twist only sneaks up on us because the rest is so predictable. But if you love these stars, sit back, relax, ignore the meager story, and just bask in the simple sweetness of seeing them have fun onscreen. It’s like visiting your aging relatives. You’ve heard their stories before, but it still feels good to connect with them. C+ Queen Bees is available for streaming on Amazon Prime and opened in theaters June 11.
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Gabriella Toranski took third place. Investigative/Enterprise – Toranski was third for her article “Should we re-elect, recall, or at least review the electoral college?” Read more about the journalism awards on pioneerpublishers.com
CVCHS SEEKS NEW DIRECTOR AMONG RENEWED CONTROVERSIES
This week is the application deadline for people interested in becoming the third permanent executive director at Clayton Valley Charter following the resignation this spring of Jim Scheible. CVCHS launched hybrid instruction on Monday, Mar. 29 and Scheible’s last day on campus was April 20. He explained to The Pioneer last week that, “I did not leave my post. I am still employed by CVCHS through June 30. As an employee of the Board, I work at their direction and am doing so currently.” After Scheible’s near three years in charge that saw most of the controversary surrounding the tenure of his predecessor Dave Linzey fade away, it appears, as baseball Hall of Famer Yogi Berra reportedly said, “It’s like déjà vu all over again.”
The Pioneer was provided a copy of a five-page, singlespaced letter that “Supporters of CVCHS” sent to the Contra Costa County Office Board of Education late last month. In it, this anonymous group made a number of claims, primarily about then CVCHS governing board chairperson Katie Dresdow. Last week, the CVCHS governing board reorganized its officers for the upcoming school year with Jennifer Lauricella as chair and Kevin Zimmer as vice chair. The letter outlines 10 issues the writers have concerning conduct of school principal Jeff Anderson, actions by the board, some of which they claim violate the Brown Act, unnecessary budget cuts, unapproved spending as well as the hiring of former CVCHS and School of Performing Arts administrator Dr. Patrick Gaffney in a new position at the school. The claims include the fact that “Scheible was forced out by Katie Dresdow” and that his interim replacement, David Fehte, who had a controversial end to his previous charter school position in Southern California, was hired on a 3-2 vote, which they claim Dresdow orchestrated.
Surviving and thriving during the great migration of 2021
ends, the reader is already wondering what is going on. But we begin to understand that it may be a Black orchestra and, in fact, a story about an AfricanAmerican family. It is the day of 16-year-old Melody’s coming out, a sort of cotillion. The story begins as Melody steps down the stairs on her boyfriend’s arm, family SuNNy SOLOMON and friends waiting below. But before she finishes walking BOOKIN’ WITH down the stairs, she backtracks SUNNY to earlier that day while getting dressed and talking with a Readers who appreciate a woman named Iris. good story and value imaginaWe learn that Iris is tive writing should not pass up Melody’s absent mother. “Red at the Bone” by National Melody is wearing Iris’s cotillion Book Award winner Jacqueline dress – the dress Iris never wore Woodson. because, at 15, Iris was pregnant She has a way of saying so with Melody. There would be much with so few words. Her no cotillion for Iris. story opens: “But that afterA remarkable part of this noon there was an orchestra book is the way in which playing. Music filling the brownMelody’s story is told from the stone. Black fingers pulling vioviewpoint of those who know lin bows and strumming cellos.” and love her. Her father, Before the introduction
Aubrey, watches his daughter descend the staircase with tears in his eyes. He tells Melody’s story as a father who has loved her since her birth while he was still a high schooler. Woodson’s story grows as the reader learns about Melody’s mother and her mother’s parents, Melody’s beloved grandparents with whom she and her father lived after Iris left for college. The characters speak for themselves. They tell of their families that came before and the scars left by life events and handed down as family legacies. The story does not begin on the day of the Melody’s coming out, only its telling. It is more than Melody’s story, or Iris’s or Aubrey’s; it is the story of her parents’ parents and their parents, too. It is Tulsa, Okla., with world wars, drugs, violence and a terrorist attack not far from the Brooklyn brownstone where
point B, and maybe a temporary point A and a half somewhere in between, moving is equivalent to a major renovation. People move for many reasons. Two common reasons are downsizing or upgrading to a larger space. If you’ve invested in furniture at your current residence, furniture that makes you happy, JENNIFER LEISCHER furniture that is in excellent DESIGN & DÉCOR condition, in timeless colors and fabrics, it’s really hard to sell or For the past several months, donate it. maybe even the past year, a For example, you may be the orchestra plays. Inside those years are moth- great migration has been taking living in a four-bedroom home but you’re looking to downsize ers and daughters, husband and place. Family and friends moving to a two-bedroom place. wives, mothers and sons, colup the street, moving to a near- Chances are you will have to sell lege lives, sexual awakenings, by city and even moving out of or donate a good amount of forbearance and forgiveness, state. Moving feels like the hip furniture. Most likely, you will hopes and disappointments, new design trend these days. keep your most favorite, most successes and failures. But it’s definitely not for the functional and most cherished How the author accomplishfaint of heart. There are so pieces. es this telling in less than 200 If you are upgrading to a pages without the reader feeling many logistics that go into a single move. larger space, more furniture rushed is thanks to Woodson’s Finding a new home some- must be purchased. Like the act skill at trusting her words. Like times feels like the easiest part of moving, furniture budgets the poet she is, not a word is of this project. Then comes the are not for the faint of heart. wasted or left out. Each character slowly comes actual moving – from the sim- Sofas can start below $1,000 at retailers like IKEA and Living fully into focus. When finished, ple task of collecting moving boxes to the physical task of Spaces and go all the way up to I put the book down, then moving your belongings into the tens of thousands if you’re picked it up to begin again. the new residence, and everybuying higher-end retail or takNow alive and known from thing in between. ing the custom route. page one, the characters give Some have no fear and just When moving, existing furthe story’s emotional depth a get to it. They rent a moving niture and new furniture is richness beyond measure. something to take into considSunny Solomon is a freelance truck, pack the boxes and take writer and head of the Clayton Book care of business. Others hire eration. moving companies to do the Club. Visit her website at Lately, many people are bookinwithsunny.com for her latest heavy lifting. looking for some major creature recommendations or just to ‘talk However you get your books.’ belongings from point A to See Design, page 13
Being a hacker is easy, fun and profitable. To get started, enter the words “password cracking” into the Google or Bing search bar. Up pops “the 10 most popular password cracking tools.” All one needs to do is download a popular hacker program and fill in a few items, like where to send the hack results when the software is successful, how much money is in your target’s bank accounts and how much data they have at risk. Beginners can become hackers in a few minutes, no experience needed. The hacker “quick start guide” will have you hack-
websites, and push your hacking software to anyone who visits that hacked site. All for $29.99. But wait … Just imagine the opportunities; yesterday you were a victim and today you are the perpetrator. In 24 hours, you will have hundreds of compromised passwords, bank accounts and stock market trading information, etc. Think of the profit potential. Log into the computer you just hacked and run another program that encrypts that user’s hard drive so they cannot use it. Then demand a fat ransom to restore the data to
usable form. Need help? Use the URL bing.com/videos/search?q=pa ssword+cracking and watch videos that assist you in hacking. Go ahead, you know, just for fun. There you have it, the beginner’s guide to hacking. Soon you will be able to hack bank accounts, credit cards, pipeline companies, even the governments of foreign countries. Start a war or international incident, all for one low-low price. One word of caution, though: Do not hack U.S. government websites because they have secret ways to find you.
It takes 10 minutes to set up the premise. Helen the widow (Burstyn), estranged from her daughter, lives alone in the home she shared with her husband. A fire damages the house and she must ‘temporarily’ move into an elder care facility. There she reluc-
‘Red at the Bone’ a rich family drama
The beginner’s guide to hacking passwords for fun and profit
WILL CLANEy
TECH TALK
ing by this evening, for fun and profit. How great is that? You can become an expert hacker of people in your neighborhood, city and, or state. Hack banks or even
We are friends and all, but I do not want to be roommates in that steel motel, if you know what I mean. OK, all you targets out there, I mean those people that are reusing passwords or think that the password “P@$$Word” is secure. You are on notice: I have just sent an army of hackers your way. You can thank me later. However, for now, I want you to think about your security and safety. I mean, unless you use protection – you are going to be hacked. I recommend a password manager that will help you build
strong passwords and help you remember all of them. If you want to know more, and I hope you do, call your local computer MSP independent expert. Do not rely on yourself or your internal IT staff. Remember, that did not help Colonial Pipeline or JBS meat supplier. I was going to close with some snide remark, but I decided you already have been browbeat enough. So, go do the right thing. 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.
SPORTS
Page 12
The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com
June 18, 2021
Changes aplenty at end of tumultuous year in HS sports JAY BEDECARRÉ The Pioneer
To the credit of many, most importantly the athletes, California high schools were able to jam the entire 2020-21 school year’s sports calendar into about five months as athletes, coaches, officials and administrators worked through COVID-19 challenges to get the girls and boys back to competing after the long pandemic shutdown. Now that seniors have graduated and the dust has settled on what is hopefully a once-in-a-lifetime experience for everyone, there have been several changes in the local coaching and administrator ranks. Four of the six Concord high schools will have made changes in the athletic director position by the start of the 2021-22 school year. Athletic directors Bob Ralston of Clayton Valley Charter and Mark Tran of Ygnacio Valley each stepped down from their positions at the end of the school year. Tran will become commissioner of the Diablo Athletic League, replacing Pat Lickiss who died suddenly this spring. Ygnacio Valley also lost its football coach with Bryan Shaw resigning his post. At the same time, YV just got a new principal in Jonathan Pike and CVCHS is in the process of hir-
BOB RALSTON
ing a new Executive Director. Megan Coddington has shared or handled athletic director duties by herself at Concord High for most of the past decade. Next fall, she’ll continue teaching and coaching her Concord softball team but baseball coach Matthew Harrod, who was co-athletic director with Coddington this past school year, will handle all AD duties. Carondelet High is also hiring a new athletic director. Scott Kennedy was in the job for just over one year before departing months ago. Cougars water polo coach Cat Arroyo has been the acting AD. Concord High Principal Rianne Pfaltzgraff concluded her two-year term as North Coast Section president and is turning the gavel over to Louie Rocha of Antioch High for the 2021-22 season.
MARK TRAN
The county’s high school athletics scene was dealt an unexpected blow in April when former Las Lomas principal Lickiss passed away from complications of a heart attack. He served the Acalanes Union High School district for decades as a coach, teacher and administrator, retiring in 2010 after 17 years in charge of Las Lomas. Lickiss kept involved by serving as commissioner of the Diablo Foothill Athletic League for six years and then the DAL when it was formed in 2016.
RIANNE PFALTZGRAFF
Tran just completed his 22nd year teaching science and coaching at YVHS. During that time, he has coached boys and girls basketball, track and field, girls volleyball and cross country as well as being AD for the past decade. Once principal Pike appoints his successor AD, Tran says he would like to continue coaching Warriors cross country and track and field. RALSTON SEEKING NEW CHALLENGE
PAT LICKISS
made a full-time position. Ralston left Clayton Valley after the 2011 baseball season to coach the CSUEB Pioneers. Over the five years at Cal State, he had three 30-win seasons and was voted 2016 California Collegiate Athletic Association Coach of the Year by the league’s head coaches and was named West Region Coach of the Year by the National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association. That year Ralston’s Pioneers broke the program record with 33 victories, captured a share of the California Collegiate Athletic Association North Division championship for the first time, reached the title game of the CCAA Tournament, qualified for the NCAA Division II West Regionals for the first time in 39 years and produced the University’s first CCAA MVP in any sport in senior All-America Rudy Navarro.
MARK TRAN TAKING CHARGE Randy Takahashi, the Acalanes athletic director, served as interim DAL commissioner through the end of the school year and Tran is slated to take over the position officially July 1.
Ralston was at Clayton Valley Charter as a teacher or administrator for 19 years starting in 1997-98, interrupted from 201116 while he coached the baseball team at Cal State East Bay. He returned to the Concord school for the 2016-17 term as freshman academic advisor and took over the athletic director role in the summer of 2018 when it was
Ugly Eagles player graduated from Clayton Valley Charter in 2017 where he played for his uncle Casey Coakley. He was awarded a scholarship to Saint Mary’s College and redshirted in the 2018 season. His one-year SMC baseball scholarship wasn’t renewed so Ralston went to Diablo Valley College and played in the final season of Hall of Fame coach Steve Ward. He had four homeruns and drove in 23 that year for the Vikings. Ralston then went to San Joaquin Delta College in Stockton to play under another renowned coach Reed Peters. That 2020 season was cut short by the COVID-19 pandemic, but the infielder showed enough ability that Peters rec-
ommended him to Metro seventh in RBIs, and tied for State, where Peter’s son Cade eighth in homers (11) as well as was playing. first in sacrifice flies (6), second in walks (29), sixth in runs, MULTIPLE HONORS seventh in on-base percentage Before gaining the All- (.484), eighth in hits (60), 10th America recognition earlier in total bases (105) and 11th in this month Ralston was named slugging percentage (.691). top third baseman on the firstHis dad, Bob Ralston, longteam All-South Central Region time local baseball coach at the Division II by three organiza- high school and college level, tions: American Baseball says “perseverance and hangCoaches Association, Division II Conference Commissioners Association and National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association. An All-RMAC first team selection, Ralston’s national rankings included 22nd in runs (53) and 31st in RBIs (52). In the RMAC, he ranked sixth in batting (.395), tied for
Ralston was the head baseball coach at Clayton Valley for 11 seasons, where he captured seven league titles and a NCS championship in 2009, as well as three other Section championship game appearances. During his tenure, Ralston guided the Eagles to their best season record (24-3), most wins (26) and best season batting average (.394) in program history. He interrupted his Clayton Valley career in 2007-08 to coach Diablo Valley College baseball, leading the Vikings to a California Community College Athletic Association NorCal Elite Eight appearance, a top-10 ranking in the state and a 54-39 record over his two years there. Ralston got his start in coaching as an assistant at Cal from 1990-91, helping the Bears to the NCAA Regional final, before moving on to serve as an assistant at DVC from 1992-94. He spent three seasons as head coach at St. Patrick-St. Vincent High in Vallejo from 1995-97, where he won two Sac-Joaquin Section titles. Overall, he compiled a 34495 record as a high school coach, collecting eight league championships and three section titles. A Clayton resident, Ralston is looking for a new challenge after leaving CVCHS and he does not preclude the possibility of moving from the Bay Area for the right opportunity.
Bill Ralston earns All-America baseball honors JAY BEDECARRÉ The Pioneer
Former Clayton Valley Charter High and Diablo Valley College player Bill Ralston capped a breakout sophomore season at Metropolitan State University Denver by earning third team Division II AllAmerica honors this month from American Baseball Coaches Association/Rawlings. Playing third base for the Roadrunners, Ralston started and played in 43 of the team’s 44 games as they finished with a 34-10 overall record. They were second in the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference in the regular season and eliminated in the semi-finals of the
BILL RALSTON
conference playoffs by Colorado Mesa, which was the consensus No. 1 D-II team in the nation through the regular season. The two-time all-league
Athlete Spotlight
Grace Pugh
Grade: Senior School: Clayton Valley Charter Sport: Water Polo, Swimming
“You can’t have the best of both worlds” is a common expression. However, time and time again, Pugh proves this maxim false. During her four years at Clayton Valley Charter, Pugh has shown excellence in both her academic and athletic ventures, while remaining very involved in school and community activities. She competed on varsity swimming all four years, her main strokes being the 50- and 100-meter freestyle and 100 backstroke. Pugh also swam on the Springwood Swim Team for 12 years. She is a three-year member of the Ugly Eagles varsity water polo team. During her freshman year, Pugh
began playing club water polo for 680 Drivers. As a sophomore she was voted honorable mention all-Diablo Athletic League and Pugh was the DAL Offensive MVP and first-team all-league in her 2019 junior season. That team reached the semi-finals of the North Coast Section playoffs. Although Pugh wished she could have experienced the senior season she and her teammates expected, she was more than grateful to be able to play four last games with her CVCHS water polo team this year and was honored as team MVP. When she is not in the pool, Pugh is a dedicated member of Clayton Valley Public Serv-
ice Academy and ASB Leadership, all while maintaining a 4.33 GPA and earning a place on the NCS Scholastic Honor Roll every year. She is committed to play water polo at Azusa Pacific University the next four years. She looks forward to moving to Southern California and competing for a Christian school starting this fall. She will be majoring in chemistry and plans on working in the dental field after college. Pugh says she is very thankful for all the friends and memories that Clayton Valley has given her and, although she wishes she could have experienced high school to its fullest extent, she looks forward to her next chapter as a student and water polo player at APU.
ing in there” allowed his son to flourish this year. Bill Ralston started playing this month in Charlotte, NC in a summer wood bat college league. Two summers ago, after his year at DVC he played for the Yuba Gold Sox in his first experience with wood bats. Of course, there was no baseball last summer due to the pandemic.
3 East Bay Gymnastics athletes help Region I team to championship at USAG finale in Iowa last month
CVCHS student journalist Alexa Oldham wrote this Spotlight.
The Pioneer congratulates Grace and thanks Athlete Spotlight sponsors Dr. Laura Lacey & Dr. Christopher Ruzicka who have served 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 nominations for the Pioneer Athlete Spotlight today to sports@pioneerpublishers.com.
Photos courtesy East Bay Gymnastics
Jillian Arangorin (bottom right) and Sienna Blake (left) of Concord and Clayton’s Aaliyah Campos of East Bay Gymnastics were on the Region 1 team that won the 2021 USA Gymnastics Development Program Level 9 Western Championships Super Team title last month in Coralville, Iowa. At 10-years-old, Campos (top right) was the youngest competitor in the meet, the 2021 finale for Level 9 women. Blake, 15, took sixth in allaround, fourth on the beam and seventh on bars. Their East Bay teammate Sofia Mederios placed in four events. Two older East Bay gymnasts, Casey Brown and Claire Dean, were on the Level 10 Region 1 team and their performances sparked strong interest from Pac-12 college programs. Region 1 competitors were selected from California, Nevada, Arizona and Utah gymnasts. In all, 24 states competed in the meet.
June 18, 2021
The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com
Page 13
Athlete Spotlight
Photo courtesy La Salle High School
One of the highlights of the school year for De La Salle High and other local schools is when they fete their student athletes formalizing their college commitments on National Letter of Intent days. With the pandemic changing everything for the past year De La Salle held a spring NLI ceremonies for the 18 boys who made their college plans official along with their parents and some Spartan coaches and officials in a socially distanced setup in the Seeno Gym on the Concord campus.
Naval Academy, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, RoseHulman Institute of TechnoloFour local high schools gy, University of St. Mary, Linannounced 30 senior student denwood University and Saint athletes signing their National Ambrose Academy. Letters of Intent this spring SPRING NLI SIGNEES committing to play their sport ( SPORT AND COLLEGE) starting this fall in colleges from coast to coast. The signees will be playing Carondelet 14 different sports in college Andie Angelacci (Lacrosse, Occidental College) including baseball, lacrosse, Angela Atis (Volleyball, Chapman swimming, soccer, water polo, University) volleyball, rowing, rugby, foot- Ava Mehrten (Volleyball, ball, basketball, softball, tennis, UC Berkeley) wrestling and cross country Bianca Venegas (Softball, Univerathletes. sity of St. Mary-Leavenworth) Bay Area four-year schools Dani Wozniak (Soccer, Cal Poly getting commitments were San SLO) Francisco State, UC Berkeley Kendall Brazeel (Rowing, Saint Mary's College) and Saint Mary's College. Eastern and midwestern schools signing local grads are Univer- De La Salle sity of Chicago, United States Nathan Babby (Cross County, Cal JAY BEDECARRÉ The Pioneer
Poly SLO)
Kieran Brown (Cross Country, University of Chicago) Caleb Chance (Baseball, San Francisco State) Miles Daniels (Basketball, Chico State) Agustin De La Vega (Cross Country, Harvey Mudd College) Terrell Hopson (Rugby, Lindenwood University) Sebastien Maza (Soccer, Cal Poly SLO)0 Evan O’Connell (Swimming, Cal Poly SLO) Kason Pelz (Baseball, University of Chicago) Richard Peters III (Baseball, Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology) Jon Puckett (Rugby, UC Berkeley) Mickey Radanovich (Baseball, San Francisco State) Richard Reed (Volleyball, Saint Ambrose University) Ramiro Rosas (Soccer, Humboldt State) Andrew Silva (Baseball, San Francisco State) Mario Storti (Rugby, Saint Mary's College) Robby Vanderklugt (Lacrosse, Whittier College) Daniel Viscia (Water Polo, University of the Pacific)
George Zeigler
Grade: Senior School: Northgate High Sport: Football, Track & Field
His coach Ben Ballard smiles when he says that Northgate football opponents would see an “undersized cornerback” in his defensive backfield and say, “that’s where we should go.” They would soon find out Zeigler, who probably has to stretch to tip 5-10 on a height chart, plays much taller and stronger on the field. In the shortened Bronco season this fall, the senior captain had an interception, forced two fumbles and had over two dozen tackles in four games. He also was a slot receiver on offense. He spent the past two years as a starting cornerback on varsity after two seasons on JV. Typically, after fall football season Zeigler would run sprints and the 4x100 relay for the Northgate track team in the spring. He passed on track this year after the latest-ever California high school football season. The Concord resident will be given a tryout at Sacramento
Northgate
Design, from page 11
comforts in their new home – a home office, gym, entertainment room and, of course, enough bedrooms and a big enough kitchen for everyone to be comfortable. Outdoor living spaces have also become more important than ever. We’re expecting our homes to be mini hotels. A well-designed pergola to be used on sunny days as well as rainy days to just get outside. A swimming pool to use for exercise as well as fun. A bocce court for training
before you hit the downtown Clayton bocce court. And a grass patch for the kids to play, the dogs to roam and just extra space for that a-ha feeling. If moving is on your list of activities for the summer, breathe in and breathe out. Moving into a new residence also means that you may have construction in your budget. Living in the Bay Area, it’s no secret that sometimes a larger home means you may have to do a bit of work.
Do you know a young athlete who should be recognized? Perhaps they have shown exceptional sportsmanship, remarkable improvement or great heart for the sport. Send your nomination for the Athlete Spotlight today to sports@pioneerpublishers.com.
We thank Lexi Oldham for her two years writing Athlete Spotlights at Clayton Valley Charter High School for The Pioneer. Lexi began writing for us in the fall of 2019 and through her junior and senior years at CVCHS (much of her
David Clark (Football, George Fox University)
Mt. Diablo High had quite the 2020-21 football season. Linebacker David Clark (left) with his coach Donald James signed his scholarship commitment to George Fox university in Oregon. The Red Devils won their first football league title in nearly a half century when they defeated Concord High 60-13 in the final game of the Diablo Athletic League season. It was Mt. Diablo’s first win over their crosstown rivals since 2003.
The Pioneer congratulates George 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
Lexi moves on
Mt. Diablo
Jay Bedecarré
State as a walk-on after Northgate coaches reached out to the Hornets staff to let them know there is “a great, hard-working kid” with a 3.2 GPA who has been accepted and will be enrolled in their school starting in the fall.
schoolwork done remotely during the pandemic) she has been on time and on point profiling Ugly Eagles student athletes. We wish Lexi all the best starting this fall at the University of Utah.
Kate Lee (Tennis, United States Naval Academy) Omar Shalabi (Water Polo, University of the Pacific) Caroline Welch (Lacrosse, Pomona College) Maile Andresen (Swimming, University of Utah) Nicolas LeSieur (Wrestling, Worcester Polytechnic Institute)
MDRR is a trusted partner to the communities we serve. We made a promise to support them by participating in events, educating our children, and making our communities a better place to live.
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Jennifer Leischer is the owner of J. Designs Interior Design based in Clayton. Contact her with questions, comments and suggestions at jenna@j-designs.com.
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THE ARTS
Page 14
The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com
June 18, 2021
Performing arts community bids sad farewell to one of its own Window” directed by Malcolm Cowler. Peabody will also direct “A Familiar Visage,” which he wrote. For an audition appointment, email info@orsvp.org.
The theater community lost one of its brightest stars on June 2, when journalist, playwright, director, educaSALLy HOGARTy tor, producer and performer Kathy McCarty died. STAGE STRUCK Kathy helmed this column, called On the Marquee In case you missed Pittsunder her byline, for more burg Community Theatre’s than a year before the effects Kathy McCarty, who died June 2, celebrated opening night production of Stephen Sond- of multiple sclerosis forced of her original show “The Fitting Room” at the Campbell heim’s Tony Award winning Theater. She is shown at far right, with Sheilah Morrison, her to quit. musical “Company,” you can She packed a great deal of left, Katrina Krassner and Jennifer Peabody. still catch it with either Pinole living into her 58 years. Community Players or Ghost- Galatean Players, Kathy’s the- most recently at Contra tions can be made in her light Theatre Ensemble. name to the Campbell Theater company, produced more Costa College and Orinda Thanks to a unique collab- than 20 of her original works Academy. ater (campbelltheater.com), oration, the three groups have throughout the Bay Area – where many of her shows She tackled MS with the been able to offer the outside including her full-length musi- positive energy she used in all were produced, or to the performance to their respecAnimal Rescue Foundation aspects of her life. Unfortucal “Rivets.” This homage to tive communities. Remaining nately, she was diagnosed with (arflife.org/donate). the home-front soldiers of shows take place June 18-20 at WW2 was performed on the a rare form of brain cancer, Four Fools Winery, 13 Pacific SS Victory Red Oak at Rosie primary central nervous sysSally Hogarty is well known Ave., Rodeo tem lymphoma, a year ago. around the Bay Area as a newspathe Riveter National Park in (pinoleplayers.org) and June My heartfelt condolences per columnist, theatre critic and Richmond. One of her origi25-27 at Brentwood Commu- nal shows even made it to Off go out to Kathy’s loving hus- working actress. She is the editor of nity Center, 35 Oak St., Brent- Broadway. band, Rich Schwab, and her the Orinda News. Send comments wood (ghostlightte.org). Seatfamily. A celebration of to sallyhogarty@gmail.com Kathy taught for many Lisa Truesdell ing arrangements and conces- years at College Park High I’m excited to anKathy’s life is planned for sions will allow for social dis- School in Pleasant Hill and later in the summer. DonaInsurance Agency Inc. nounce auto tancing, and masks are Lisa Truesdell, Agent insurance rates required. Insurance Lic#: 0M70837 just went down. If you’re looking to audiBus: 925-672-3030 I can help you find tion for a show performed in a theater before a live audicoverage that lisatruesdell.net ence, Orinda Starlight Village works for you. Players will hold auditions LET’S TALK TODAy. beginning at 10 a.m. July 10. The new readers theater will be performed outside at the Orinda Community Center Park Amphitheatre. Actors State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company, State Farm Indemnity Dianna Schepers will be seen five at a time in Company, Bloomington, IL. State Farm County Mutual Insurance Company of Anita Viramontes and Ben Texas, Richardson, TX 1901155 30-minute audition slots. A Bell appear in “Company,” wide variety of ages are needproduced by Pittsburg Comed, including children and “Musical Comedy Murders of 1940” by the Orinda Starlight munity Theatre in collaborateens. tion with Pinole Community Village Players was the last production at the Orinda AmWhile each show will be phitheatre before COVID. Now, the company is holding au- Players and Ghostlight Thecostumed with sound and atre Ensemble. ditions for shows August through October. general lighting, there will not be sets and the show’s blocking will allow for social distancing. Shows begin in August and continue into October. The plays include Moliere’s “Tartuffe” and either George Bernard Shaw’s “Saint Joan” or Miguel de Cervantes’ “Don Quixote” directed by Amy Cook; P.G. Wodehouse’s “Two Left Feet” and Edith Nesbit’s “The Town in the Library, the Library in the Town” directed by Eddie Peabody; Bill Chessman’s “Mini 10 Minute Play Festival” and George M. Cohan’s “Seven Keys to Baldpate” directed by Suzan Lorraine; Edgar Allan Poe’s “Triple Tryst of Terror” and “The Black Cat,” W.W. Jacobs’ LISA FuLMER “The Monkey’s Paw,” Sheridan ARTS IN MOTION Le Fanu’s “Carmilla” and H.H. Monroe’s “The Open My next “behind the scenes” story about the newly painted utility boxes downtown comes from Jennifer Granat, left, and Melissa Claros included trails and Melissa Claros and Jennifer a cast of characters on one of their recent utility box projects. Granat. After they painted two “We envision someone is turkeys, each of the animals boxes near the playground at has its own unique personali- peering out from the open Todos Santos Plaza in 2019, ty. door of a Tatami room and the Concord Art Association 925.305.9099 seeing all the way to Con“Some are playing hide and the city of Concord and seek, others are peeking cord,” Granat muses. “Our selected them a second time into doorways or around the view from Japan includes a 60 Marquette Court — Clayton to paint another pair of cherry blossom tree, the corners,” she says. An oasis of beautiful appointments inside & out boxes where East Street Communion Bridge SculpGranat painted several This 3/2 rancher features gorgeous kitchen w/custom knotty alder merges into Clayton Road. by ture at City Hall and Mt. winding trails surrounded cabinetry, massive walk around island, spectacular stone slab“The Celebrate Concord trees to entice viewers to Diablo’s waterfalls.” counters and more. The yards are out of this world. Featuring theme this year inspired us walk all the way around each The Concord Art Associglass beaded surfaced pool and gorgeous outdoor kitchen. Solid to feature our city’s hiking box to explore. ation has more fun in store mahogany floors highlight the pair of built in workstations. Front and biking trails, parks, lakes, “I hope everyone likes for the community this sumviews of Mt. Diablo from your porch. Offered at $979,000 wildflowers and wildlife,” seeing all the familiar Conmer with pop-up art shows For Lease: 340 Saclan Terrace — Clayton says Granat. cord scenes, like airplanes downtown. Visit concordarEach side of each utility Pristine, move-in ready home at end of quiet cul de sac tassociation.com to subscribe passing overhead, cows box depicts different season- munching grass in the hills, in the desirable Black Diamond community. Exquisite 3 bed, 2.5 to the email list to stay in the al scenes along with local bath floor plan with natural light throughout. Remodeled kitchen loop. as well as families and landmarks. “We wanted to with granite counters, walk-in pantry and oak floors. Bright, open friends enjoying our wonderliving room has gas fireplace and soaring ceilings. Upgraded, cuscreate a whimsical view of Lisa Fulmer is a mixed media ful parks,” she says. tom plantation shutters. Enjoy lovely rear yard and evening walks Concord’s open spaces and artist, Concord Art Association While their larger utility around charming downtown and walking trails. $3,500/month outdoor attractions,” she box features the locals, their board member and founder of adds. smaller box interprets a per- MadeinConcord.com. She also conClaros shows off her joy- spective from Kitakami, a ® Realtor / ASP Stager@ / Relocation Specialist BRE#01370548 sults with local artists on self-proful, artistic style with lots of nod to Concord’s sister city motion and personal branding. cute critters. From skunks in Japan. and cows to dogs and wild
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Artists interpret Concord scenes with whimsy and joy
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Planting herbs in your garden makes cooking more fun June 18, 2021
The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com
grown in beds, borders or containers. Many have interesting foliage and some have pretty flowers. The idea to grow your own herbs has surged over the past years. Yesterday’s herb gardens were planted with basil, parsley and rosemary. Although those old favorites still rule the herb bed, today’s herb growers are NICOLE HACKETT expanding to include various GARDEN GIRL flavored mints, oregano, thyme, fancy leafed and flavored sages, Herb gardening is both lemon balm and tarragon. beautiful and rewarding. Herb gardens need to be in Plant lovers delight in how a mostly sun location. Plants easy it is to grow the herbs that need to be installed using a rich they use for cooking. It is great soil conditioner. Once estabto be able to walk outside and lished, most herbs are very snip some leaves from the sage water wise and require little to or a sprig of rosemary to incor- thrive. Basil, cilantro and parsley porate into favorite dishes. plants are the exception. They Herbs are also attractive gar- will need more water and can den installations that can be take less sun. Fertilize herbs
monthly with an organic fertilizer. Flavored mints are all the rage. Mojito, apple and strawberry are some of the most popular. Mint can get out of hand in a garden bed, so install your chosen mint in a container for control. Oregano is a large family of herbs containing members planted just for cooking and others that are so pretty they can be planted just to admire. Greek and Italian oregano are two fabulous choices for those that desire fresh oregano for cooking. Kent Beauty is a variety that one may plant just for looks, although you can cook with it if you wish. Kent Beauty has a pinkish-purple flower that weeps over the sides of containers and hanging baskets. Try
Page 15
and should remind you of sausage. Common sage is a great evergreen shrub in the landscape. It has large gray leaves and blue flowers in summer. If you are craving a different look in the landscape or container, look for the variegated sage. This selection has a leaf with a combination of green and yellow. Pineapple sage is a joy to grow. It does not have a Easy to grow, herbs just need traditional flavor, however, and sunshine and monthly fertilizer is used more for baking, and flavored waters and teas. coconut and oregano. All to remember this oregano’s name. Once it is blooming in thymes are edible, but some do Pineapple sage is also very your landscape, you will be not have a flavorful essence that hummingbird friendly. asked over and over: “What is successfully passes onto your Nicole is the Garden Girl at that plant?” dishes. R&M Pool, Patio, Gifts and Garden. Thyme is another huge Sage is such a large family selection of herbs. You can find that columns can be written on You can contact her with questions or lemon, lime and orange flathis group alone. Cooking sage comments by email at vored thymes, as well as has that a deep, hardy fragrance gardengirl94517@yahoo.com
From farm to flame – grill up some tasty fruits and veggies
less chance of sticking, or oil the grates. Lightly oil vegetables before cooking, but don’t sweeten fruit Not much surpasses the beforehand as it tends to burn. taste of farm-fresh fruits and Cut pieces large enough so vegetables cooked on an outthey won’t fall between the grill door grill. grates. Thick slices are fine for Whether it’s peaches and many items, like potatoes, melnectarines, mushrooms, zucchions, summer squash and eggni or big slabs of cantaloupe Here are some other impor- plant. Use skewers for smaller and watermelon, grilling enhances the unique taste of all tant tips for cooking and enjoy- produce like strawberries, figs ing summer’s perfect produce and cherry tomatoes. fruits and vegetables. It on the grill: Another option is to cut up caramelizes their natural sugars When you expose the sur- fruits and vegetables, toss with and adds a mild smoky touch – olive oil or butter and wrap in not to mention decorating them face of vegetables to intense packets of aluminum foil. Cook with those beautiful grill marks. heat, the outside will cook about 15 minutes, depending on The most important tip for much faster than the inside. density of the produce. grilling fabulous fruits and veg- To get both browning (or Just about any fruit can go etables is to start with the fresh- charring) and tenderness, cook on the grill as long as it is fairly est produce. Your local farmers peppers, onions and corn firm. Peaches, nectarines, plums, market is the best place to find together. They don’t need to be turned frequently and you melons, avocados and melons the highest quality fresh fruits are the best fruits that hold and vegetables, harvested at the can keep the grill lid down longer. Grill zucchini and egg- their shape over the flames. peak of flavor and delivered plant together since they need Fruit is fragile, so cut in large directly from the farm to you. to be checked more frequently chunks, halves or wedges. You can also buy varieties of minute or so. – every Choose vegetables with a summer produce that you won’t Use clean grill grates for lower water content because find anywhere else. DEBRA MORRIS Pacific Coast Farmers Market
Family Car Car aregiver egiver Education Series
If you’re caring for an elderly family member, Hope Hospice is here to help with a free education series, now of fered as interac tive webinars on Zoom. Recordings of past events are available on our website, too.
you want them to hold together as they cook. Use firmer Roma tomatoes, onions, corn on the cob, zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, mushrooms, artichokes and potatoes. You can even grill Romaine lettuce halves. There are really no rules when it comes to cook times for produce. Just keep an eye on things so you can tell when they’re done. You want grill marks but don’t want them to get too soft. Averages cook times are 7-10 minutes for vegetables, a little less time for fruit, using medium-high heat for a gas grill. For a charcoal grill, start on the hottest part of the grill for grill marks and then move to a cooler area of the grill to finish cooking. At the Concord Farmers Market, you’ll find fantastic stone fruit like peaches and nectarines for grilling at J&J Ramos Farms of Hughson and Diaz Farms from Fowler.
Or stop by J&M Farms of Gilroy or Esquivel Farms from Watsonville for summer squash, mushrooms and big hunks of Romaine lettuce to toss on the grill. All of these farmers stand by the quality of their produce, which means your
The Concord Farmers Market is in Todos Santos Plaza Tuesdays
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Thursday, July 8, 10 –11:30 a.m. “Handling Grief and Loss” In this webinar, a local marriage and family therapist will discuss the complexities of grief and loss, including anticipator y grief and ambiguous loss. Par ticipants will be provided with coping af ter their loved one has passed.
Congrats on your graduation Quinton & Clayton! Your auntie is proud of you!
Thursday, August 12, 10 –11:30 a.m. “Normal Aging Ve Versus Signs of Dementia” As we age, our brains and our bodies undergo changes, including some decline of memor y and cognition. Where do we draw the line bet ween normal ef fec ts of aging and more serious symptoms that should be evaluated by a doc tor? Hope Hospice’s dementia specialists will of fer insight in this webinar.
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grilled fruits and vegetables will turn out the best. To start grilling awesome fruits and vegetables this summer, go to pcfma.org/eat for recipes.
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For these De La Salle students social justice means action
Page 16
The Pioneer • www.pioneerpublishers.com
ISABELLA MONET MENDOZA Student Correspondent
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This particular year has shown that not only does it take a village to raise a child, but it takes children to sustain a village. Those at De La Salle High School in Concord have made sure to remember just that. With pillars of its Lasallian Catholic education and goodwill, the school’s educators inspire their teenage boys to spark change. This year, Christopher Miller, a teacher in the Religious Studies Department, showed students how to exercise their faith in regard to Catholic social teaching, ethics and social justice. Students say the class curriculum has helped them address the large-scale issues seen this year, such as systemic racism and mental health. As school became complicated, with some students choosing to learn in-person as opposed to online, Miller assigned a final service-oriented project with the intention of further lifting his students’ spirits. While a final project may not sound complementary to the development of a content and carefree student, Miller believed otherwise. “This project provided an opportunity for students to learn more ... and empowered them to recognize they do have the ability to make a difference in the world,” he says. It seems the art of giving back remains an act of altruism that ceases to fail. With that belief, he commissioned his students to apply the teachings of the Catholic religion learned that year in their final projects. He assigned some to create podcasts, while others had the task of designing posters of a
June 18, 2021
This was an encouraging surprise, teaching the students that awareness and belief can make a good deed touch on a cause greater than any obstacle faced. But the students did not reach success just by sheer will or experience. They had to communicate with charitable organizations and consistently advertise their projects. Because of COVID-19, online vs. inperson school schedules had to be mitigated. George’s group also had to collect books while limiting the spread of the coronavirus. If anything, hardships only This year, De La Salle High spurred people to share an School’s Religion Class inurgent message about the spirit spired student George Timof goodwill. merman and his classmates Miller’s final project has to collect books for underothers to brainstorm inspired privileged youth in the comacts of service. But where to munity. start? “Look for causes you Catholic “hero.” There were believe in,” George advises. also groups that directly con“No matter how small it is, it is fronted the realities of the still a start.” underserved communities George has proven his own around the school. words true. Sometime this George Timmerman, a rismonth, he plans to deliver the ing senior at De La Salle High books to the Monument Crisis School, was one of the students Center or to the De La Salle that brainstormed and led his Academy for middle schoolers. group to light a flame of To the untrained eye, this is impact. An avid reader as a a story of how a final class child, George catapulted his outproject led to unexpected idea into reality by donating comes. However, to the De La books to a local charity. These Salle community, it is a testabooks would be an act of generosity, supporting youth of all ment to the fiery faith that they ages and a thirst for continuous believe in, knowing that the deeds from Miller’s students education. Word soon spread like wild- reflect the foundations of the school’s mission. fire around the school and in Whether their services were the neighborhoods of Concord a book drive or mailed letters, and Walnut Creek. During the positivity met them halfway and final stage of their project in encouraged their endeavors. May, George and his classmates These teenage boys are no anticipated a total of 50 books. longer the children their village However, their hopes were has raised. They have grown to raised when they counted 240 be young men paving the way books. to a better community.
We all can Progress our Pride
These mainstays in our community literally meant the difference between feeling affirmed or being overtaken by stigma, fear and harm. We are grateful for folx like Holotta Tymes and the many co-owners who scraped together funds to The Rainbow flag was rekeep 1220 alive for us this last designed in 2018 to represent difficult year. LGBTQ+ communities of color had the disRainbow has and transgender people. KIKu JOHNSON tinct pleasure of being raised up ALL THE COLORS by a newer local gathering place, (POC) communities (brown, Del Cielo Brewery in Martinez, black), as well as those living with AIDS and the stigma and this Pride month. Owners I’ve had the incredible and prejudice surrounding them, uncharted experience of “com- Cielomar and Luis reached out and those who have been lost to us to fundraise for our ing out of the closet” twice to the disease (black).” LGBTQI+ community through thus far in my lifetime. The black and brown stripes a new brew they titled Always The first time was as a also bring awareness to the Pride. deeply reluctant lesbian in the trans women of color who have Rainbow is receiving 20 perearly ’90s – a foreshadowing of been targeted and murdered in cent of proceeds from the first a new kind of “gender reveal” increasing numbers. brew batch, and they held a to come as I stepped into the As for the light blue, light Pride event earlier this month world anew as a trans man 23 pink and white, Quasar says the so we could celebrate in person years later. half-sized stripes represent trans That first time around com- and show our rainbow colors. and non-binary individuals. This is what tremendous allying out, I embraced the colors This updated flag reminds ship looks like. of the beautiful rainbow flag we must still us of the progress But wait, there were more that appeared in San Francisco make and the work we must do, in 1978. Designer Gilbert Baker than six colors on the rainbow all of us, to build safer commuflag we saw hung in the brewdecided not to trademark this nities where we truly belong ery? The Progress Pride flag flag, with the six colors of red was designed by Daniel Quasar and are protected. (life), orange (healing), yellow of Portland, Ore., in 2017, the (sunlight), green (nature), blue Kiku Johnson is Rainbow same year Baker died. (serenity) and violet (spirit), Community Center’s executive Quasar shares that the black ensuring it as a widely accessible director. Send questions and comsymbol of the LGBTQI+ com- and brown colors represent ments to kiku@rainbowcc.org. “marginalized People of Color munity. I purchased with pride my first set of rainbow rings to wear around my neck from my See “Ask college town queer bookstore, rt” Common Language, in Ann the Expe Arbor, Mich. This bookstore page 10 closed in late 2018, alongside countless beloved queer clubs •Same day reports and bars that provided safe spaces across the country. •Flexible scheduling We have one bar left repre•Payment options senting Contra Costa County. •$50 off any inspection Club 1220 has been in Walnut Creek since 1976. 59+ five-star Rainbow has built a beautiYelp reviews ful relationship with 1220 since Charity of the Month our beginnings in 1995, and A portion of profits are donated to rotating Bay Area charities each month. original owner Jon Crovo supSelected charities announced monthly on our website and social media! ported the center financially www.safeathomellc.com (925) 318-1440 when we struggled early on.
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